FIRS T MINISTRY
Seventhly Adyentist MinisjtetjiaJ, Assc^Jfori and has been published since 19287
Association Secretary James A. Cress Tending our own spiritual fires Editor Willmore a -Eva Formative theoughts on nurturing personal spirituality as a Assistant Editor for Management lulia W. Norcott Editorial Assistant Sheila Draper leader Professional Growth and tnterchurch Relations Bert B. Beach Nikolaus Sat*elrnajer
Clifford GoWstfiirt, Peter Prime, Joel Sarii, Kit Watts International Editors: "In the beginning God . , ," French fotw Graz Inter-American Division Felix Cortes A big-picture historical review of the creation-evolution South American Division Zinaldo A. Santos dialogue among Seventh-day Adventists in recent years Consulting Editors: Ben Clausen, Raouf Dederen, Teofilo Ferreira, Ron Gerhard Pfandl Flowers, Michael Hasel, Roland Hegstad, Kathleen Kuntaraf, Ekkehardt Mueller, Jan Pautsen, Robert Peach, Angel Manuel Rodnguez, Penny Shell, William Shea, Russell Staples, Richard Tibbits, Ted Wilson, Edward Zinke Pastoral Assistant Editors: John C. Cress, f redrick Russell, Maylan Schurch, Loren Seifooid International Advisors: Ale|andro Bullon, John How has the postmodern paradigm affected Adventist Duroe, Andrews Ewoo, Paulraj Isaiah, Anthony Kent, Ivan Manilich, Zacchaeus Mathema, Ivan Omana, David thought, belief, and worldview? Osborne, Peter Roennfeldt, Bruno Vertallier
Reinder Bruinsma Pastoral Advisors: Leslie Baumgartner, S, Peter Campbell, Miguel A, Certw, Jeanne Hartwell, Mitchell Hensafi^©ktorma.OsfeorB, teslie,W!ard, pao.Smlth, Steve Vyillsey Advertising Editorial Office A to Ki$ Ministerial Association Resource Project Coordinator Cathy Payne A response to Miroslav Kis©s eight-part series on pastoral Cover Photo Getty Images misconduct Digital Illustration Harry Knox Mark Carr Subscriptions: 12 issues (double issue for luly/August): United States US$29,99; Canada and overseas US$31.99; airmail US$41.75; single copy US$3,00. To order, send name, address, and payment to Ministry Subscriptions, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, for big Silver Spring, MD 20904 U.S.A. Web site: www.ministFymaga2ine.org A report on the Church©s plans for big-city outreach Circulation queries, renewals, mew subscriptions, worldwide address changes: Email: [email protected]; phone: 301-630-6510; fax 301-680-6502. Gary Krause To Writers: We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. Editorial preference is to receive manuscripts on diskette with name, address, telephone and fax numbers, and Social Security number (if U.S. citizen or possessing a U.S. Social Security number). Send editorial correspondence to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver A proposal suggesting consistent ways of dealing with Spring, MD 20904-6600. Phone: 301-680-6510; fax: 301-680-6502; pastoral sexual misconduct Email: [email protected] or [email protected] (editorial offices). Nikolaus Satelmajer Writer©s Guidelines available on request. Ministry (ISSN 0026-5314), the international journal of the Seventh-day Adventist Ministerial Association
Center for Women Clergy opens when a double issue wilt be published) by the Genera} Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and printed by at Andrews University Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1 350 N. Kings Road, Nampa, News feature ID 83687-31 93. Member Associated Church Press. Standard mail postage paid at tslampa, Idaho. Wendi Rogers PRINTED IN THE IJ.S.A. Vol. Tl Number 6
Scripture quotations from NASB are frota the New American Standard Blbte, Copyright 196 , 1962,1963:196ft 1971, 1922,1973, W5, 1977 by The Lockman Foundation. Texts credited to NKJV are from The New Oag lames"i%K MINISTRY June 2005 T DOES THE PROPOSED NEW FUNDAMENTAL BELIEF ATTEMPT TOO MUCH? DOES IT ADDRESS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SOPHISTICATED WEST AND THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN CULTURES WHERE SPIRITUAL FORCES CONTINUE TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN DAILY LIFE? New fundamental belief "evil forces" is Satan (former head of damaging as sexaholism, alcololism, he June 2004 Ministry article on the the angelic hosts), who commands the drugs, overeating, etc. After reading T "Proposal for a New Fundamental fallen angels. They manifest themselves Spiritual Wholeness for Clergy: A New Belief" has many informative facts and in all kinds of deceptions in religious Psychology of Intimacy with Cod, Self and detailed justifications for #28. The con experiences. This fundamental biblical Others by Hands and Fehr, in which the cern is that the new statement does not fact is completely ignored in the state authors draw from more than 10,000 go far enough. My experience in soul- ment. Neither do any of the supporting hours of clinical therapy describing dis winning work among people belonging texts from the Scriptures mention the orders that clergy suffer, phases of heal to the traditional religions in Africa, role of angels in the plan of salvation. ing, etc., I learned much about this "Folk-Islamic" Muslims in the Middle Does the proposed new fundamental topic. I attended 12-step programs on East, Hindus in Southern Asia, and belief attempt too much? Does it codependency for three years, and it is Christians in Europe has convinced me address the difference between the my desire to reach struggling leaders that the best way to fill the vacuum we sophisticated West and the people who with a message of hope. As a counselor, create in calling them to Christ is to live in cultures where spiritual forces I have recommended 12-step programs explain that "spirits and ancestors" who continue to play an important role in to many people. Many of us struggle manifest themselves are the fallen daily life? Would the exercise be more with unhealthy coping mechanisms. I angels in disguise. At the same time we useful if it were expressed in two state hope the person who wrote this letter bring their attention to the many inci ments rather than one, with an received information about Sexaholics dents in the Bible where God sent His alternative highlighting the involvement Anonymous Free Subscription If you©re receiving Ministry bimonthly and haven©t paid for a subscription, it©s not a mistake. Since 1928 Ministry has been published for Seventh-day Adventist ministers. We believe, however, that the time has come for clergy everywhere to experience a resurgence of faith in the authority of Scripture and in the great truths that reveal the gospel of our salvation by grace, through faith alone in Jesus Christ. We want to Share our aspirations and faith in a way that will provide inspiration and help to you as clergy. We hope you will accept this journal as our outstretched hand to you. Look over our shoulder, take what you want and find helpful, and discard what you can©t use. Bimonthly gift subscriptions are available to all licensed and/or ordained clergy. Requests should be on church letterhead and addressed to the editorial office. June 2005 MINISTRY EDITORIAL It©s not the sermon hrough the preaching of Frank John said that he wrote his Gospel Conzalez, at a recent General WILL EVA "that you may come to believe that T Conference week of prayer, the Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, Spirit touched our souls, mine included and that through believing you may (see the ad on page 14.) This is not have life in his name" (John 20:31, something that happens automatically, NRSV). of course, especially among groups of It©s significant that this verse comes people who have been hearing so right after a description of the experi much from so many for so long! ence of an angry, disillusioned Thomas, Partway through the week, Frank and who had said that if he did not put his I had lunch together and, true to form, finger into the wounds in Jesus© hands, talked about what preaching is all about body language. We quote our sources or his hand into the speared side of the and what, in fact, makes any particular and cite our authorities. We are sure to Lord, he would not believe. My guess is preaching event extraordinary. Frank©s say things that are sensitive to the par that Thomas never thought such a insights were especially stimulating. ticular intellectual, social, political, and thing would or could actually happen. He described the sense he had of ecclesiological realities that predomi But he had no sooner made this rash how easily preaching can become and nate in our congregations. In fact, the but hugely significant demand, when even has become an end in itself, the unpleasant truth is that a great deal of Jesus stood before him and told him to fulfillment of an occupational role critical what drives us in our preaching, and do just what he©d said he needed to do. to a pastor©s declared job description causes us to say this or that in such and Incredulously, he reached out his hand, and contributing to his or her profes such a way and with a particular felt the configuration of the wounds, sional career track a thing we must do emphasis, is the strong motivation we believed (verse 29) and cried out, "My because it©s the thing that©s done. all possess to impress the most impres Lord and my God." Most of us preach or speak on spiri sive among our listeners with our We preach in order to reach not tual topics a number of times each preaching skill and homiletical acumen. just impress the hearts of agonizing, week. Each time we speak, we have to All this becomes second nature to us. searching, disillusioned people; that decide on a topic and search for good We do what©s expected of us; that they may put forth their hands, touch material. So we read broadly, combing which is to be done at the right place, the living Christ, believe, and find life in through familiar and unfamiliar sources, the right time, and in the right way. His name. What even we might not sacred and secular. We settle upon rele But for what reason? expect to happen is always on the cusp vant parts of Scripture, exegete the Has preaching or for that matter, of happening anyway, especially if we text, and use the classic tools required any aspect of our leadership ministry know why we preach, what we preach by our task. We "homiletize" and illus become an end in itself? In the final and especially who we preach. trate, we analyze, organize, and analysis, what is supposed to happen It©s not just the sermon. . . . It©s an note-take. We think and pray, search when a Christian minister stands up, immensely significant thing we do as ing, sometimes a little desperately for opens his or her Bible, and begins to pastors and evangelists. Viewing our ways to make our message worthwhile. speak on Sabbath morning? Most point preaching and ministry this way will But for what reason? edly perhaps, What are we preachers revolutionize the way we view ourselves When we stand up to preach we use actually expecting, and what specifically and our work. It will invest each day voice inflections, pauses, gestures, and are we seeking to accomplish? with purpose and meaning. M MINISTRY June 2005 in sustaining and guiding me in an ethical and spiritual life. What is Adventist spirituality? Adventist spirituality is usually less for mally organized than it seems to be in some other communions. We don©t follow spiritual exercise books, breviaries, canonical hours, or set daily prayers, or have appointed spiritual advisors. While such structured approaches may prove helpful to some people, there is an innate risk to this kind of formalism. A mechanical way of praying by rote does not, it seems to me, nourish a living, spiritual rela Tending our own tionship with God. On the other hand, the more relaxed, extemporaneous approach may lack system, be less targeted or intentional spiritual fires and thus not lead to where we need to go. Adventist spirituality is also less contem plative or mystical. It is more pragmatic and "action" oriented. Thus it aims at authenticity fter more than 40 years of meet by revealing the observable fruits of the spirit. Bert B. Beach ing with church leaders from While there may be no impressive ecstasy in many diverse geographic and Adventist spirituality, neither should we be theological backgrounds, I©ve lost in constant busyness. The life in Christ come to the view that there are should be one of restfulness because there©s Athree different classes of people in church abiding, peaceful trust. At the heart of things leadership: First, there are the traveling is the simple daily work of simply tending our bureaucrats, then the status and title monu own spiritual fires. ments, and, finally, the men and women of Like others in a creation-emphasizing God who are consistently deeply spiritual and church, I receive profound spiritual uplift by inspiring. It is a privilege to associate with and gazing at the wonders of nature and especially be blessed by the many leaders I know in this at the stars in a dark night sky that©s unaf last category. It is my sense that these are the fected by artificial light. The incomprehensi leaders who make it a priority to tend their ble and awesome vastness of the universe puts own spiritual fires. me in my place. And yet the Almighty Creator My personal definition of true spirituality God loves and looks after each of us, and we is brief and unpretentious: Being in harmony can call Him intimately, "Abba, Father." with God©s will. This is our daily calling, our No doubt, like most preachers, I receive lifetime search. I ask God: "Teach me Thy spiritual nourishment while preparing ser way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path." No mons, and in writing articles. I have a strong need here for theological complexity and suspicion that in this ministry, my soul is sophistication. more nourished than those who have to lis BertB. Beach, Ph.D., My church is a Bible- and Christ-centered ten or, perchance, to read! is secretary of the church. This must always be preeminent. There are two little books that have been Council for However, it may surprise some readers to helpful to me. One is Ds Noie Teschtament Interchurch Relations hear that I guide my public life by asking Bamdutsch. This is the New Testament in the for the Public Affairs myself four questions of seemingly secular Swiss Bernese dialect. There is nitty-gritty and Religious Liberty origin, but which have a Christian founda power in this version. Since this language is Department, General tion: (1) Is it the truth©© (2) Is it fair to all usually not written, it is easier to read by talk Conference of concerned? (3) Will it build goodwill and bet ing it silently (or out loud) to oneself. It is so Seventh-day ter friendship! and (4) Will it be beneficial to down-to-earth, in some ways the opposite of Adventists, Silver all concerned? This is the 4-way test of Rotary the glorious majesty of the King James Spring, Maryland. International. I find these questions helpful Version. I like to read it before going to sleep. June 2005 MINISTRY 1 Key elements nourishing a selfishness, and covetousness, for they of prayer, so that our prayers become leader©s spiritual life are contrary to the very essence and formal, routine, and selfishly Then there is that essence of "benevolence of His character."4 detached from the dynamic realities Seventh-day Adventist spirituality 6. The rule of God is not based on of life situations.8 1 need the challeng Steps to Christ by Ellen G. White. blind submission, but rather it freely ing and sanctifying influence of Written well over a century ago, it is appeals to the intellect and con others; colleagues, friends, spouse, simple, demanding, but encouraging. science. There is here a great religious children, and, yes, grandchildren! I have distilled for myself some two liberty principle: God cannot accept a 10. Jesus says that we should be of dozen points or steps, found in that homage that is not willingly and intel "good cheer" for He has overcome little volume, that are helpful in ligently given. In any relationship, the world for us. Nourishment pro nourishing our spiritual life. Here are such homage is useless, even harmful. vided by a positive attitude is needed just a few that energize the spiritual How many foolish crimes have been to achieve consistent growth in spir vitality of church leaders. committed by so-called Christians try itual stature. Joy and gladness drive 1. We don©t need to fear God. He ing to force people to worship God in spiritual development. A "horse-face" loves us with an everlasting love. It is certain prescribed ways. Christian is a contradiction in terms. Satan who lives to cause us to feel God gives us a wonderful gift the Gloom and moroseness starve and hopelessly estranged from God. It is power of choice and we can yield our crush the spirit. We need a sanctified he who delights to picture God as a will to Christ and ally ourselves with sense of humor. severe judge, a rigid and demanding the power that is above all powers.5 I do not need extraordinary abil accountant and timekeeper, and an 7. Here is another hopeful and ities or great occasions to work for exacting creditor. morale-building statement regarding God. Together we need to go forward 2. God©s love is revealed also in the spiritual growth: Our character is by faith, step by step, quietly and suffering and difficulties that result revealed "not by occasional good humbly creating ripples that will from sin. The trials of life the deeds and occasional misdeeds, but swell into waves of divine blessing. Genesis thorns and thistles that by the tendency of the habitual We don©t need to weary ourselves emerged after the Fall are ap words and acts."6 At the heart of such with anxiety about success. Spirituality pointed for our training and uplift deeds is the call to consistently tend does not "quench the light of joy."9 ing, not to bring us down into our own spiritual fires. Christ discerned in every human condemnation and sorrow. 8. Ellen White gives us two simple being infinite growth potentiality. 3. Education, culture, and willpower and yet dynamic statements regarding Today, we are still imperfect, but the all have their place, but "they cannot the vitality of prayer. She says that redeemed will stand "without fault purify the springs of life."1 In them prayer is "opening of the heart to God before the great white throne," every selves they lead to the dead-end of as to a friend" and that it is a key, that imperfection having been removed by salvation by works. The power is Christ, is, our "key in the hand of faith to the blood of Christ. The joyous glory and His grace alone can quicken our unlock heaven©s storehouse" of spir of Christ©s character is imparted lifeless faculties. He is the only medium itual nourishment. 7 It is especially through divine grace.10 of spiritual communication between arresting for leaders to consider the The words of the incomparable God and human beings.2 far-reaching implications in this hymn writer Isaac Watts summarize 4. When it comes to repentance, "storehouse" metaphor: that in prayer the challenge of God©s love and our an important thought is frequently we hold the key to such richness! response as we tend our spiritual fires, overlooked: "Repentance includes 9. Some mistaken individuals see nourishing our union with Christ: sorrow for sin and a turning away the pinnacle of spirituality in quiet "Were the whole realm of nature mine from it." I need to lament the sin, and permanent retreatlike separation / That were a tribute far too small / rather than simply the unpleasant from the world. But God does not Love so amazing, so divine / Demands consequences of sin.3 David under expect His disciples to retire from my life, my soul, my all." M stood this and that is why, despite his society, their fellow human beings, shocking sins, God could call him a and the world©s responsibilities. He 1 Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ (Nampa, Idaho: man after His own heart. expects Christian leaders to live like Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1892), 18. 5. The sins that are especially offen Christ, between the mountain and 2 Ibid., 20. sive to God are not so much the the multitude. A retreat can be spir 3 Ibid., 23. 4 Ibid., 30. visible outward acts that we so readily itually invigorating, but I need to be 5 Ibid., 48. highlight and condemn, but pride, in social life and involved in mean 6 Ibid., 58. ingful, down-to-earth earnest activity 7 Ibid., 93-95. 8 Ibid., 101. for God and His Church. Otherwise, 9 Ibid., 121. we can easily lose the subject matter 10 Ibid., 126. MINISTRY June 2005 Elevated Training "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it : to get a crown that will last forever." I Corinthians 9:25 of Arts Sharpen your skills this summer and earn credit toward a Master of Arts. Take this opportunity to dialog with colleagues, develop fresh material from Scripture, and learn from experienced profes sors and ministry experts. Choose from our unique areas of emphasis which includes homiletics, evangelism, church leadership and management, religious studies, and religious education. SOUTHERN Contact the School of Religion today for the summer intensives schedule. ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY 1.800.SOUTHERN ext. 2977 or 423.236.2977 power for mind & sou/ email: [email protected] web: religion.southern.edu "In the beginning God . . ." A historical review of the creation debate among Seventh-day Adventists Editorial Note: While this paper, now Science Conference, Richard Davidson in article form, is not one that was pre from Andrews University stated that sented at any of the Faith and Science "[T]he biblical text of Genesis 1 leaves Conferences convened over the last three room for either (a) young pre-fossil years, it is one that was presented in rock, created as part of the seven days appropriate venues during this time- of creation (with apparent old age), or period and has had its influence on the (b) much older pre-fossil earth rock, dialogue. We believe that it contributes to with a long interval between the cre our self-understanding as Seventh-day ation of the inanimate ©raw materials© Adventists when it comes to the issues of on earth described in Genesis 1:1,2 and creation, evolution, faith, and science. It is the seven days of Creation week therefore included in our Ministry Faith described in Genesis 1:3ff (which I find and Science series. Traditional creation models the preferable interpretation)."3 among Adventists Contrary to the gap or ruin- t its 1980 world session in Dallas, Two different views in regard to the restoration theory of the Scofield Bible, the General Conference of creation record of Genesis 1 have pre Seventh-day Adventists do not believe ASeventh-day Adventists officially vailed in the Adventist Church. that life existed on earth prior to Genesis voted the church©s statement of faith in 1. The Adventist gap theory. This view 1. Only nonfossil bearing rock can be terms of 27 fundamental beliefs. understands Genesis 1:1 as a reference billions of years old. While this is a pos Belief No. 6 states: "God is Creator of to the creation of the universe including sibility, Genesis 1:1-3 does not indicate all things, and has revealed in Scripture the earth in its raw state billions of years that there is a gap between verses 1 and the authentic account of His creative ago. Several thousand years ago the 2. Furthermore, Exodus 20:11 says "For activity. In six days the Lord made ©the Holy Spirit hovered above the waters in six days the Lord made the heavens heaven and the earth© and all living and the six-day creation took place. This and the earth, the sea and all that is in things upon the earth, and rested on the view was predominant among Adventist them." This text seems to say that with seventh day of that first week. Thus He pioneers. M. C. Wilcox in 1898 wrote, in six days God created everything established the Sabbath as a perpetual "When did God create, or bring into connected with our earth. At any rate, memorial of His completed creative existence, the heaven and the earth? the gap view does not really help us work. The first man and woman were ©In the beginning.© When this ©begin when it comes to the fossil bearing geo made in the image of God as the crown ning© was, how long a period it covered, logic column, since death can have ing work of Creation, given dominion it is idle to conjecture; for it is not occurred only after the Fall. over the world, and charged with revealed. That it was a period which 2. The original Creation account. This responsibility to care for it. When the antedated the six days© work is evident."1 view sees the six-day Creation week world was finished it was ©very good,© The same view is found among beginning in verse 1, not in verse 3. In declaring the glory of God. (Gen. 1; 2; Adventists today. For example, Clyde other words, "heaven and earth" in verse Ex. 20:8-11; Ps. 19:1-6; 33:6, 9; 104; Webster, former associate director of the 1 refers only to our planetary system or Heb. 11:3)." Geo-Science Research Institute, in his our Milky Way and not to the universe as This statement spells out that book The Earth writes, "[TJhere is no ref a whole. The reason is that in Isaiah Seventh-day Adventists believe (a) that erence in Scripture within creation week 65:17 and Revelation 21:1 "heaven and God created heaven and earth and all that addresses the creation of water or earth" do not refer to a re-creation of the that is therein in six days, and (b) that the mineral content of dry land. . . . The universe but only to that part of the uni the Sabbath is a continual reminder of only reference made to their creation is ©in verse contaminated by sin. the six-day creation. the beginning.© It seems possible then This was J. N. Andrews©s view. He On the basis of biblical chronology that the elementary inorganic matter is believed that the universe was created and some statements of Ellen White, not bound by a limited age as is the liv on day one. "If we could be placed back Seventh-day Adventists have tradition ing matter."2 some 6,000 years in the past, and from ally believed that this creation took More recently, at the 2002 General that point survey the vast abyss of space place about 6000 years ago. Conference-sponsored Faith and now studded with the stars of heaven, 8 MINISTRY June 2005 what should we behold? Blank nothing. The host of heaven did not then exist. Our earth itself had not risen into being. The vast infinity of space was literally, as job expresses it, ©the empty place,© and that which filled it was ©nothing© Job 26:7. Utter and profound darkness rested upon the great void. Even the materials which subsequently formed the worlds had no existence."4 Ellen White wrote in 1904, in connec tion with the pantheism crisis, "The theory that Cod did not create matter when He brought the world into exist ence is without foundation. In the formation of our world, God was not indebted to pre-existing matter."5 While this statement can be used by both positions, in view of all her other statements on creation, I believe she held the second view. Whatever the case, both positions hold to a six-day Creation and see the Creation account as the basis for the Sabbath command ment in Exodus 20. Evolution and the Adventist church Until the 1950s Adventists on the whole accepted one or the other of the CMebratintlM two creation models. During the last few decades, however, some Adventists have begun introducing a third creation model theistic evolution. This is an attempt to harmonize evolutionary biology with the Christian faith. In 1957 the General Conference established the Geoscience Research Institute, located today on the campus of Loma Linda University in California. "The institute focuses mainly on the bio logical, geological, and paleontological questions regarding the origin of life and the past history of our planet in the con text of the Creation account given in the book of Genesis."6 During the first two decades of its work, tensions existed among the scien tists of the institute because of different views on how to interpret the past. Some took the statements of Scripture and Ellen White seriously and attempted to interpret the facts of science accord ingly. Others were willing to consider seriously "evidence from radioactive June 2005 MINISTRY time clocks that placed ©Creation Week Eva, Willis Hackett, and Richard Hammill studied the geological formations in Utah hundreds of millions of years ago© " 7 and to formulate two doctrinal points, one and Wyoming and another five days searched for ways to interpret Scripture about inspiration and the other about were spent at a study conference in in the light of this view. creation, which the scientists and Bible Yellowstone Park. "Conference presenters In time, all the so-called progressive teachers in our schools should accept. dealt with three themes: earth history, scientists left the institute, and around "Their efforts on behalf of Pierson©s the biblical record, and responses by 1980, when Ariel Roth became director ©creedal statement© prompted one cam Christians seeking to reconcile their faith of the institute, only scientists who pus theologian to confess that he could with the evidence from science."9 accepted the Scriptural record as it reads see no substantive difference between A report of this field conference, were on the staff. In Adventist schools the actions of the General Conference published in Spectrum, stated, "The and universities, however, the picture president and those of the pope."8 conference generated some feeling of was different. A number of science About the same time that Ariel Roth apprehension, partly because not all the teachers tended to lean more and more became director of the Geoscience familiar answers seemed adequate to toward theistic evolution. Research Institute, Gerhard Hasel explain what we saw, and because par The Geoscience Research Institute became dean of the theological semi ticipants were concerned that the issue organized field conferences in North nary at Andrews. Through these of origins might be divisive for the America, Europe, and Australia that appointments Elder Pierson hoped to Adventist Church."10 informed the leadership of the church, contain the pluralism among the theolo The concern was justified. At a teachers, and ministers about the prob gians and scientists. Geoscience field conference in 1991, lems of the evolutionary theory and The progressive or more liberal think which newly elected General Conference offered a solution to the geologic col ing scholars and scientists, however, were president Robert Folkenberg attended, umn on the basis of the biblical flood. frustrated. They turned to Richard Ariel Roth informed the participants that On one of these tours in 1977 the Ritland, who had retired in 1982, and a number of Adventist scientists had General Conference president Robert asked him to organize a field conference become theistic evolutionists. Then in Pierson realized that some of our scien for the Association of Adventist Forums. the year 2000, the Association of tists tended toward theistic evolution. The conference took place in 1985 with Adventist Forums published the book He asked the vice presidents Duncan about 100 participants. For ten days they Creation Reconsidered, which contains BIBLE STUDIES THAT GET RESULTS A Simple and Easy Way to Study the Bible With Others Don and Marjorie Gray. Filled with tested and proven Bible-study methods, this book will help any motivated church member to give studies with confidence. 0-8163-2047-0. Paperback.US$1.99, Can$2.69. What the Bible Says About. . . Prophecies of Hope Bible Lessons Lonnie Melashenko provides 31 studies A brand-new set of 26 full-color, full-message les on key Bible topics and a simple Bible sons developed by Gary Gibbs of Hope TV and marking plan. As members learn to mark designed to be used in conjunction with Hope TV©s evangelistic programming. The "fill-in-the- their Bibles, they will gain confidence in blanks" feature fits the busy lifestyle of most sharing their faith. people today. 0-8163-2004-7. Paperback. US$1.99, 4333003484. US$5.99, Can$8.49. Can$2.69. Q 2005 © Prices subject to change. 197/55590 Pacific Press . Where the Word is Life. Available at your local ABC, 18OO 765 6955. Or order online: www.AdventistBookCenter.com MINISTRY June 2005 the 28 lectures given at the 1985 Yellowstone conference. A number of the contributors to this volume advocate Bible Study Guides theistic evolution. * Church & small groups! * Classroom workbook! * Gifts and sharing! * Personal devotion! * Pre or Post Evang. Series * Prison ministries! Two views in the church today Based on recent publications of Adventist theologians and scientists in regard to creation we can say that today there are basically two views in the Adventist Church. One sees creation extending over millions of years; the other holds to a six-day Creation several thousand years ago. 1/4 Christ s Object Lessons Representatives of theistic evolution. Now share the soul winning classic Spirit of Prophecy books as Bible interactive study guides. You Richard M. Ritland (a retired biologist answer thought provoking questions from Scripture followed by E.G White s life-changing commentary. who taught at Loma Linda and Great for ages 1 2 and up ! Use any Bible, contains a certificate, response questions, and answer section! Andrews). At the field conference in eveaiontion Publiicaiionsfi * 1985, in his lecture on the geologic col Websiteesr www.RevelationPublications.com umn, which seems to indicate that life ?.maU Phone 800-952-4457 on earth existed millions of years ago, he traced the development and the evi dences for the geologic column. He Richard L. Hammill (former president entific explanation of the history of the concluded by saying, "Like a clock for of Andrews, General Conference vice cosmos, the earth, life, and humanity. organizing the day, the geologic column president). After his retirement, Dr. Taking the two explanations together has become like a calendar for relating Hammill studied scientific theories ©yields an intellectually satisfying and and organizing the vast body of infor (plate tectonics, fossils, radioactive dat spiritually illuminating account of cre mation and theories that has become ing, etc.). After nine years of study he ation.©" 15 As far as Ellen White is the essential core to which the records came to the conclusion that "animals concerned, he believes that if she were of earth history relate. It has become an were living on the earth . . . millions of living now, knowing what we know indispensable tool, not only for general years ago before these [continental] today about natural history, "she would studies but also for those special areas plates separated. And, moreover, as I undoubtedly avoid making a divisive related to the flow of energy and life got to looking into the geologic col issue of the interpretation of Genesis 1 ."16 throughout time, to origins, to time, to umn, I had to recognize . . . that the Representatives of a six-day Creation. evolutionary change all of immediate geologic column is valid, that some Jim Gibson (biologist and director of the concern to those probing the meaning forms of life were extinct before other Geoscience Research Institute). In 1998, of life, existence, and the governance of forms of life came into existence. . . . at the European Geoscience field con the cosmos."11 The steadily accumulating evidence in ference Jim Gibson stated that "the Richard ]. Bottomley (a geophysicist the natural world has forced a reevalu- long-age viewpoint makes certain unfa at the Canadian University College). At ation in the way I look and understand vorable implications about the the same conference, he dealt with the and interpret parts of the Bible."© 3 He character of God and the reliability of topic of dating the rocks. After explain called himself a progressive creationist. the Bible. Since I give epistemological ing the radioactive dating methods, he Fritz Guy (a theologian at La Sierra primacy to the Scriptures, I accept the showed that fossil-bearing rocks have a University). At the Faith and Science Genesis record as a matter of faith. certain sequence the bottom rock Conference in 2002, Dr. Guy presented a Having adopted that position, I am must have been laid down before the lecture, "Interpreting Genesis One in the encouraged that much of the evidence younger rock on top of it. Since the Twenty-First Century," that was later claimed to support long ages can be dates for the individual layers are spread published in Spectrum. He interprets reinterpreted in the context of a short over hundreds of millions of years, he Genesis 1 theologically, i.e., he sees chronology." 17 concluded that the layers of rock "do Genesis 1 "not as a literalistic description Randall Younker (archaeologist at represent long intervals of time and that of a process, but as ©a spiritual interpre Andrews University with a background the rocks involved could not have been tation of the universe©s origin, nature, in biology). At Andrews University, he deposited over a short period of time,"12 and destiny.©"14 That means "read theo and John Baldwin teach the course as most Adventists believe happened logically, the explanation of creation in "Issues in Origin" in which they present during the Flood. Genesis 1 is complementary also to a sci the traditional creationist viewpoint. June 2005 MINISTRY 11 PLANNING fOS THE "Sometimes you have to face harsh realities before you know what©s right" Pastor Mj©newno (Mmner) and Evelyn Labrador Cleanuater, Plorida he first question our guardianship papers, the family T financial advisor asked had no way of knowing what us about retirement was: Do the parents© wishes were for you have a will and other their children. Before the issue estate planning documents? was resolved peaceably, pro We didn©t. Within weeks, two bate costs had significantly tragedies in our church showed reduced the children©s insur- us how important estate planning can be. A beloved ance benefits and inheritance. When we thought deacon suffered a serious stroke. Machines kept him about our own family, we knew we couldn©t live alive, but he could no longer communicate. Loving with uncertainty. We had to fulfill our obligations as relatives found themselves in a painful argument - parents, as pastors of the flock and as responsible a conflict that could have been avoided, if only our stewards of God©s goods. Now that we have wills we church member had signed an advance are so relieved. We know that if anything medical directive. Then, a young couple happens to us, our sons will be raised in a related to a church member died in a car home we©ve chosen for them. A accident, leaving two young children. ADVENTIST CHURCH Because there was neither a will nor Trasf Services Call us Toll Free: 1-877-W1LLPLAN 12501 OM Columbia. Pike / Silver Spring, Maryland / 20904-6600 / USA / wuw.wAlplan.org Younker wrote the Sabbath School face of scientific facts, a six-day Creation quarterly on creation for the fourth a few thousand years ago is no longer quarter of 1999. In the introduction to acceptable to many Adventist scholars the lesson he states, "Seventh-day and scientists. On the other hand, con Adventists take Genesis 1-11 as an servative Adventist scholars cannot accurate historical account of origins of accept any view that posits death life on earth. We accept the biblical before human beings lived on the account©s straightforward testimony earth, because Paul in Romans 5:12 that the creation of life on this planet says, "Therefore, just as through one and its various habitats occurred in six man sin entered the world, and death literal, 24-hour days. Based on the avail through sin, and thus death spread to able biblical data, we also believe that all men, because all sinned" (NK]V). the period of time since the Creation The Loma Linda physician and theo has been a short chronology of a few logian Jack Provonsha, therefore, has thousand years, as opposed to millions proposed a different solution. He has sug of years required by the general theory gested that Adventists consider the of evolution."18 ruin-restoration theory as propounded by Leonard Brand (biologist at Loma the Scofield Bible. According to this view, RELIGIOUS Linda University). In the introduction to when Lucifer was cast out of heaven to his book Faith, Reason, and Earth History the earth he was given a long time to he writes that "a central thesis of this work out his principles. "This included book is that a creationist can indeed be genetic experimentation resulting in the BOOKS an effective scientist."19 He champions evolutionary process which ultimately led interventionism, a view of history that to the development of humanlike apes. recognizes the important role of intelli At some more recent time, Provonsha gent intervention in history. In the chap suggested, God stepped in and created ter on faith and science he says in regard the Garden of Eden with Adam and Seminaries and Colleges to geology, "Science has proposed a Eve."22 around the world are in theory that fossil-bearing geologic Although this view combines the con great need of quality deposits have accumulated over hun servative view with the scientific data of religious reading materials dreds of millions of years.... 1 conclude death before Adam, it has received little for training and educating that the Bible indicates that current geo support from either side. future leaders. logical theory, in certain respects, is an You can help meet this incorrect interpretation of the data. Our Recent faith and science challenge by donating new task is to go back to the research lab and conferences or used religious books develop a more correct theory."20 At the Annual Council in 2001 the (avoid story or devotional Richard Davidson (theologian at General Conference Executive Com books), or by helping us Andrews University). Davidson is a pro mittee organized a series of conferences purchase the most urgently ponent of the Adventist gap theory, i.e., on faith and science during the years needed books through your Genesis 1:1 speaks about the creation 2002-2004. The first one in 2002 was an financial contribution. of the universe; only from verse 3 on is international conference in Ogden, the creation week in view. In regard to Utah. More than 80 scientists, theolo the interpretation of Genesis 1 he says, gians, and church administrators from Please send donations to: "Based upon the testimony of the different parts of the world began dis Genesis account and later intertextual cussing the interrelationship between Seminary Books allusions to this account, I must affirm faith and science. Topics ranged from the GC Ministerial Association the literal, historical nature of Genesis 1 hominid fossil record to Ellen White©s In care of GC Transportation and 2, with a literal Creation week con view of science. The conference revealed 6620 Amberton Drive sisting of six consecutive, contiguous, the seriousness and breadth of differ Elkridge, Maryland 21075 creative, natural 24-hour days, followed ences concerning questions of origin immediately by a literal 24-hour sev that are present in the Adventist com or, if you would like to meet enth day, during which God rested, munity today. a specific need, please call blessed, and sanctified the Sabbath as a During 2003 and the first half of 2004 301680-6511 or 301-680-6499 memorial of creation."21 most divisions held similar faith and sci to find out how you can help. The view of lack Provonsha. In the ence conferences in their territories. The June 2005 MINISTRY 13 formal discussions came to an end in August 2004 at the second international conference in Denver, Colorado. "The new element in this conference was a discussion on the ethics of dissent deal ing with the ethical responsibility of those who differ in significant ways from the biblical position of the church on the topic of creation. The discussion was open, candid, and highly professional. It was obvious that a small number of indi viduals scientists and theologians did not support or felt uncomfortable with the biblical doctrine of creation in six lit eral, consecutive days as clearly revealed in Genesis I."23 There was no attempt on the part of church leaders to modify or change our fundamental belief on Creation. This was clearly stated by Elder Jan Paulsen, the General Conference president, before the discussions were initiated. However, such discussions cannot be avoided because the theory of evolution and the Adventist doctrine of creation represent two antagonistic and fundamentally diverse worldviews. Unfortunately, theis- tic evolution is one view that is being held and taught by a number of Seventh-day Adventists today. Secondly, it is important for the church to be aware that neither evolu tionists nor creationists have all the answers in the debate. These confer ences provided a proper environment to discuss these questions while at the same time holding to our faith commitment. The report of the International Faith and Science Conference Organizing Committee to the 2004 Autumn Council of the General Conference stated that while there is widespread affirmation of the Church©s position on Creation, "[W]e 800-ACN-1119 * www.acn.info recognize that some among us interpret 800-328-0525 * www.adveiifeottfGe.org the biblical record in ways that lead to Also available at most Adventist Book Centers sharply different conclusions."24 The Annual Council, after careful dis cussion, produced a response to the Going to GC Session in St Louis? report in which the Council strongly endorsed the Church©s historic, biblical Look for the Adventist Preaching display in the position of belief in a literal, recent, six- AdventSource booth, Exhibit Hall, America©s Center. day creation. "We reaffirm the Seventh- Special offer only at the Session. day Adventist understanding of the Find out how to get a FREE volume. historicity of Genesis 1-11: that the seven days of the Creation account were 14 MINISTRY June 2005 literal 24-hour days forming a week Gerhard Pfandl, Ph.D., is an associate director identical in time to what we now ex of the Biblical Research Institute, General perience as a week; and that the Flood Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Silver was global in nature." 25 The response Spring, Maryland. also called upon all boards and teachers at our schools to uphold and advocate the Church©s position on origins. Richdic! Davidson, "The Bibhcal Account of Origins" Pape© presented at the Letters continued from page 3 Faith and Science Conference, August 23-29, 2002 m Ogden, Ltah, 29 Conclusion I N" Andrews, "The Memorial of Creation," Rt©vifw •-(•• *-^ \ - fhe raost powerful prophecies in the BJi| ______|se|ffcd^ English and Spanish with stunniflff 1 _in>L_::"; ^mt'^'V' TfOlTl A I': ^©WHfteiW©by iriterriationally-knoM(T:i&»^p "^^S^^jljjjjj^^^'~^Km£% I IniCj^lH^ ;t;BuHp3f,pK^fe&J in Difficult Tifm^^j^j^^f " ; *•••• ©gft©Sf8 »» *. *- ..-****»**. fprepheeies of Daiiiefartd Ipage, ran*inj«stice are && of Danief and lohnih, Ways to use: *,-Give away at * : * Supplement Bible studies .; *,Ptace-in literature racks ©., © . : ":..i*"||||U *. * Distribute in community "© ''''•••''•"!',-^^^' »«> Share with those Interested In 1-99 $.99 each; 1.00-t $.89 each- © ©.©* , ©"^ill © Enejb©sh: 4333003500 ifpphecies^in Difficult Times * ,pt-i/3 - Spanish: 4333003529^-Profecias en tiempos diliciles., * * • • * '. - -^;«:>?if|*ft^PliilifiS»t ':'•••.-I' W7 Available at your local ABC, 1-8OO 765-6955 or online at www.AdventistBookCenter.com. June 2005 MINISTRY 15 problems. God was at a distance, while the recently discovered laws of nature kept the uni verse going in an orderly manner. The future would be marked by continuous progress, as the enormous resources of this planet were increasingly exploited to human benefit. Toward the end of the nineteenth century and in the early twentieth century, the Enlightenment Project was beginning to run Modern versus out of steam, as Friedrich Nietschze and Sigmund Freud came on the scene. New philosophical approaches that focused on postmodern language and the interpretation of texts began to blossom. They began to deliver a message of relativism, uncertainty, and even Adventism: pessimism. The Holocaust, if anything, made it impossible for life to continue as before. Philosophers in Europe and in the United States began to emphasize that the time of The ultimate divide? such grand narratives as Marxism, Com munism, and Christianity had been eclipsed. They declared that there were no longer any hen did modernism give all-encompassing schemes that offer a com Reinder Bruinsma way to postmodernism? It prehensive explanation of life. Instead, they is impossible to pinpoint said, there are only fragmented and contradic the beginning and the tory smaller stories of individuals and groups in end of any era in a precise all their diversity. All is difference, they pro Wmanner. Just as it was not immediately clear claimed. And all judgment needs to be when the "Middle Ages" ended and the deferred! There are no absolutes; Truth has been "modern" period began, so it is with the far- replaced by truths. reaching transitions and thought trends of From the 1970s onward the term postmod our time. Only the perspective of history can ernism came into use to describe the changes provide a reasonably clear picture of such that became more and more apparent in the megatrends. So the fuller picture of what is arts and in architecture, and then also in phi now happening to our world will become losophy and even theology. Today the term clear only gradually, but that something is has become a catch-all label that can be happening and that the world is in major attached to almost anything. transition is beyond any doubt. But though, admittedly, the term is impre cise and postmodernity means different Modernity things to different people, it cannot be denied When we use the word "modern" or its that something is going on, particularly in derivatives to refer to the period that followed the Western world. The Enlightenment era the Middle Ages, we do so in a particular way. has come, or is rapidly coming, to an end, It is a label for the Enlightenment Project that and we participate, whether we want to or got underway when people began to think not, in a momentous process of change. differently, as the Cartesian approach to phi losophy began to sink in. The postmodern person Descartes© famous dictum "I think therefore What is a postmodern person? What does ReinderBruinsma, I am" became the foundation for a new way of he or she think? What do they do? Where are Ph.D., is president of looking at humans and God. The autonomous they to be found? the Netherlands Union Conference, human, endowed with reason, and soon also There is no shortage of books that list the Hoevelaken, fortified by the new scientific method that was main characteristics of the postmodern man Netherlands. developed by Francis Bacon and Isaac Newton, and woman. Most authors will indicate that became the measure of all things. there is a superficial kind of postmodernism, The human was going to solve the world©s which is almost synonymous with con- 16 MINISTRY June 2005 sumerism and hedonism, and which time, global strategies and alliances are allows its adherents to live most of under suspicion and there is a strong their lives in a virtual world. interest in regional and local issues. NEW FROM But there is more to it than that, 7. The postmodern person has a TEACH Services, Inc. and in most cases this description strong dislike for religious institutions would be unfair. but is open to spirituality. In fact, Rather than describing the average some advocate a re-enchantment of postmodern person as a gadget- the world. Mystery is OK. The nonra- happy, amusement-seeking, shallow tional, new age-type approach to the individual, metaphors like nomad or questions of life is popular. Living Beyond the flaneur might be more apt. It should DangerZone also be said that there is often an The impact of postmodernism by Ronald D. Rogers $15.95 interesting mix of modernity and Once we become aware of the main True stories of postmodernity in one person. characteristics of the postmodern Angelic interventions Below are some of the most notice mindset, we see the impact of post proving God©s power. able characteristics of the postmod modern thinking everywhere. Look at ern approach to life. some recent buildings in western Scrapbook Stories These are given in an abbreviated, cities: no longer the modem boxlike compiled by Ernest summary form, and the list is by no monotonous structures of concrete, Lloyd $9.95 means exhaustive, even though it is steel, and glass. Ornamentation is Collection of best helpful in understanding or recogniz coming back and styles from different stories during a visit at Ellen White©s ing postmodern trends. periods are combined, so that post home. 1. The postmodern person does not modern buildings can tell their own believe that everything will become story. better and better. The idea of progress It is easy to detect the postmodern 3 Messages of is largely abandoned. Science is not trends in many recent novels that Revelation 14 seen to be the unconditional blessing blend stories from different periods; by J.N.Andrews $10.95 it once was thought to be. in films that leave a person wonder God©s last message of 2. There are no absolutes. We all ing where the historical ends and the warning to this world have our own private truths. Com fiction begins. This is seen, for exam before Christ returns. munities and cultures have their own ple in the "infotainment" and language games. What they talk about "docusoaps" of the latest television Midnight Cry and believe in does not necessarily productions. by Francis D. Nichol relate to any one particular reality. We also find postmodern ambigu $21.95 Everything is subjective, relative, ity in the political arena, as, for An account of the rise of the Advent uncertain, contingent, and ambiguous. instance, in parts of Europe where a Movement in the 3. The metanarratives (grand sto majority of the people support the 1840©s. ries) and the grand ideals have idea of a European unity but at the disappeared. same time will do anything to protect 4. Postmodern people like a juxta a local dialect. James White position of incompatible elements. In Further, one quickly detects the by Virgil Robinson $13.95 art we find a great interest in colla postmodern approach of many A well written, tion, mixing of artistic styles, a Western people to religion and to the interesting and blurring of the lines between real life church. Religion is in, but the institu accurate account of and fiction, the real and the virtual. tional church is out. Experience and James White. 5. Scientists are becoming more emotion are OK, but doctrines are con modest in their claims and confess sidered largely irrelevant. Absolute, The "New World that they often see what they want to propositional truth is replaced by what Order" see, and that many of the so-called works for me, and there are as many PartofAdventism? by Alien Roesch $8.95 foundations of science may not be so legitimate ways to interpret the Bible Shows what the Bible certain after all. as there are readers. and Spirit of Prophecy 6. People know they live in a global Christianity is one religious option says about this issue. village. The computer a symbol of among a series of world religions all postmodernity gives them instant are equally valid, historically and access to the world. Yet, at the same culturally conditioned responses of June 2005 MINISTRY 17 TROATJI>vArjL-l_1 GENERAL CONFERENCE MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE INVITATION BY Blfred Lee iif *•* For information on obtaining copies please cxmtact: "STUDIOS wwTv.BiblelandStudios.corn 1-866-593-3010 23 High Banks Drive Fulton, N.Y. 13069 the human self to the "Beyond." Sin underdeveloped ecclesiology. This has been reduced to a sense of regret fact will increasingly haunt us, as this that things have not gone as expect- happens to be the arena where many ed, with little or no place for of the postmodern questions of our something like atonement, where church members are asked. What is Someone steps in on my behalf. the church? Is it the church universal! More often than not, those who do Is it the visible, historic, institutional turn toward Christianity want to pick church, or the invisible church of all and choose as to which teachings ages? Or is it a small remnant, with a they are willing to accept, and will message that changes in emphasis often be reluctant when it comes to and focus as one Christian era gives manifesting full and permanent com way to the next? mitment. All these questions are directly related to our Adventist identity. Is the Postmodernity and the Seventh-day Adventist Church the Adventist Church only true church and are all other The postmodernism wave has not Christian organizations to be labeled bypassed the Seventh-day Adventist as Babylonl Or is Adventism simply Church. Many of the issues and con one option beside a whole gamut of cerns, particularly in the Western other Christian options, which may be sectors of the church, are directly re just as valid? Or perhaps Adventism, it Scripture Provides lated to postmodern influences. may be thought, represents something Positive Outlook Clearly, for a growing number of special, an option that offers a series of Adventist believers in the West the insights not readily available else A Christian publishing house metanarrative of Adventism as a where? says it has scientific evidence that worldwide, divinely ordained move The question for some influenced reading the Bible promotes a positive outlook on life. ment, united by one theology and by postmodernism may be, Does one organizational model, with uni Adventism possess the absolute truth According to a study by the form programs and resources, has in all areas of theology, or should we Barna Research Group, 82 percent of regular Bible readers outlived its sell-by date. More and be a little more modest and claim at described themselves as "at more church members tend to think most that our church makes a signifi peace" versus 58 percent of those and act locally. They have little or no cant contribution to the rich diversity who said they never read it. interest in the church©s hierarchy and of Christianity? Some 78 percent of regular are suspicious of centralized institu There is much confusion and dis Bibte readers said they felt tional structures. agreement about the answers to be "happy" all or most of the times Many are increasingly weary of given, and the response one gives is versus 67 percent of non readers. doctrinal fine print and establish largely determined by whether one is a ©v And :6:8 .percent of regular Bible : their own truth, largely, but not modern or postmodern Adventist! readers said they were "full of i exclusively, within the framework of Adventist tradition. They tend to The modern versus the regard Adventism as one option postmodern Adventist among other options and are not so Categorizing people is dangerous. Tyndale ^d sure that their traditions are the one Most people simply do not fit neatly ' and only true church. into any one category. This is also Worship styles have significantly true when we try to separate modern on :1;000' • changed, with an increasing emphasis from postmodern Adventists. So, we on experience, and on contemporary must remember that the profiles sarripleof adults."" .;©\ .© music, drama, and informal small- given below are inexact and are, at group meetings. Traditional church least to some extent, caricatures. But, discipline has lost much of its correc nonetheless, they are basically true in tive power, and an increasing amount outline. of spiritual cross-border shopping The modern Adventists are in the Fresh ideas for developing takes place. majority, and will be for some time to your church©s spiritual life It has often justifiably, I think come. They are found wherever there been noted that Adventism has an are Seventh-day Adventists. They are June 2005 MINISTRY 19 ment to the church and its message. The truth for this time, the third angel©s message, is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, (meaning with increasing power), Challenges Postmodernism in and outside the as we approach the great final test. This test must come to the church confronts the church with a churches in connection with the true medical missionary work, a set of tremendous challenges. How work that has the great Physician to dictate and preside in all does the church stay together when it comprehends. people operate on sharply differing WE BRING SCHOOLTOYOUR CHURCH premises and no longer see eye to eye regarding the identity and mission of Are We Preparing Our People? the church? How do Church leaders Hydrotherapy-Full Body Massage relate to those who have different God's plan of redemption - Bible doctrines ideas about the importance of doc 6 Weeks • 120 Hours • For ministry & service only Not a legal license trine as such, and with regard to par Instructor is a ticular fundamental beliefs? How will Licensed Nurse & Massage Therapist the institutional church worldwide be affected by the growing disinterest in THE REGISTRY the church©s organizational structure Route 5, Box 247 Colcord, OK 74338 and global programs among a rela Since 1967 Phone (918) 422-5562 (918) 422-8996 tively affluent segment of the church? The Registry Is For Those Who Love Others Must these trends be judiciously welcomed, or must they be strongly the traditional Adventists, mostly con be well educated and tend to be in rejected and fought tooth and nail? servative in their beliefs and in the more affluent areas. They do not have Or is there some middle road? way they view their church and the the same interest in the metanarra I would suggest that we should not surrounding world. tive of Adventism as their "modern" come to hasty conclusions. Both They believe in the grand story brothers and sisters. modernism and postmodernism have (the "metanarrative") of Adventism Their focus is much more regional facets that are in tension with the as God©s "remnant church," with its or local. They are often suspicious of gospel of Jesus Christ. The old ques worldwide mission mandate, called the church©s hierarchy and, as previ tion of the relationship between forth by God at the appointed time ously mentioned, are simply not culture and gospel has reappeared in and assured of its ultimate success. interested in the upper layers of the a new garb. It is, of course, important Modern Adventists believe in church©s organizational structure. that the gospel address the issues absolutes. They dislike questions that They are weary of ecclesial authority raised by postmodern people and that may undermine the certainties of the and do not unduly worry about those who proclaim the gospel are believers. They defend the historical church discipline, policy, or the sensitive to the ways in which people positions of the church with regard to church manual. think, feel, and react. doctrine, organizational structure, They tend to allow for diversity in At the same time, every culture worship, and ethics. They welcome a doctrine, and want to pick and choose including postmodernism must be strong emphasis on eschatology and which of the 27 fundamental beliefs of judged by the biblical gospel. We need are staunchly anti-ecumenical. They the Church they will embrace. Their not and we must not uncritically hold a very "high" view of inspira religion is much less rational than tra accept the pluralism and relativism of tion, both with regard to the Bible ditional Adventism. Experience, postmodernity. The claim that all and Ellen G. White. They are strong celebration, praise, and Holy Spirit are "grand stories" have been eclipsed on policy and on the church manual. the catchwords for the way many of cannot deter us from proclaiming the They want their church to remain them want to "do" church. metanarrative of our Lord Jesus Christ. united and believe that this unity is They are open to outside influ Postmodernity has facets that dan fostered by uniform programs and a ences, even tend to engage in some gerously undermine the core of the solid central system of governance. cross-border shopping, for they us biblical message and the certainty of But postmodern Adventists are a ually view other, in particular evan salvation, but it also offers great growing minority, in particular in gelical, Christians in a much more opportunities. Because of the basic Western countries: the United States positive light than modern Adventists attitudes that are part and parcel of and large parts of Europe and do. The postmodern Adventist will postmodernity, once again it is all Australia, with smaller groups in often tend to postpone or have reser right to talk about religion. There is a other parts of the world. They tend to vations about making a total commit new thirst for spirituality and a 20 MINISTRY June 2005 remarkable openness to the supernat ural. There is more willingness than Watch GC Sessions from your home! in recent decades to listen to the PRE-PROGRAMMED CHANNELS NO MONTHLY FEES small stories of those who have HOPE Channel • 3ABN English • Loma Linda Broadcasting Network • Esperanza TV • 3ABN Latino ATN1 • ATN/ACN2 (Special Church Events) RADIO CHANNELS - LifeTalk Radio • 3ABN Radio • Radio74 encountered Jesus Christ. (You can GET HUNDREDS MORE Television and Radio Channels with NO MONTHLY FEES! ) A crucial question is, How can modern and postmodern Adventists Professional Installation stay together, dialogue together and Available grow together, and worry together US & CANADA about the essential content of the bib lical message rather than about the BEST Satellite Reception Package Digital Video Recorder Package cultural forms in which the gospel • Fortec Lifetime Ultra Receiver ' GeoSatpro Satellite DVR 1000c/ Blind Scan - S-video - Digital Dolby Audio S-video - Digital Dolby Audio - Time Shift message is preached and in which the • Easiest Adventist Package to Install • 120GB Hard Drive (70+hour) institutional church operates? Will • High Quality LNBF (.4dB) • Commercial Grade LNBF (.3dB) • 36" (90 cm) Dish • 36" (90 cm) Dish church leadership allow for such dia • Deluxe Installation Kit & Cables • Deluxe Installation Kit & Cables logue, or even encourage it? Or will it try to protect its "modern" achieve FREE ments at any cost? $199 Shipping! $429 The Truth is only in Christ Jesus. $299 CAD $519 CAD But could it be that there are modern AdventistSat.com 888-483-4673 or 916-677-0720 Exclusive Distributor of Satellite Reception Equipment for the Hope Channel, Esperanza TV, as well as postmodern truths that may Adventist Television Network (ATM) and the Inter-American Division (IAD) help us to discover ever more of the Truth? Only as we learn to listen to ture our modern or postmodern soul, Modern versus postmodern may well one another, as we understand that build the church we love, and dis be the most challenging division we live in a time of transition (or is it cover ways of reaching out to both among us. the time of the end?), and as we con the modern and the postmodern May God make us wise and deter tinue to seek answers that are relevant men and women around us. mined to stay together, as He shows to our contemporaries through an Many of us differentiate between us the way to create reliable bridges open-minded and Spirit-directed conservative and liberal Adventists. across this new and challenging reading of the revealed Word only That may, however, turn out not to be divide. HI then, I believe, will we be able to nur- the most significant classification. MINISTRY SUBSCRIBER SERVICES MINISTRY is an international journal for clergy, published since 1928 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church at its world headquarters. MINISTRY addresses issues of concern to Seventh-day Adventist ministers, evangelists, church leaders, and interested laypersons. It also reaches out to ministers of other denominations on a bimonthly basis under the PREACH program. MINISTRY readers are diverse in culture, ethnicity, professional, educational, and economic standing; most readers are pastors with college degrees and a commitment to proclaiming the gospel and nurturing those under their care. United States: "$29.99 + Canada and Overseas: "$31.99 To subscribe, please submit the following information: Name______Mailing Address ______City ______State/Province Postal Code Payment information (please select one): Q Check Q International Money Order Q MasterCard Q Visa Card number ______Exp Date _ _ / _ _ Signature (required for credit card payments) ______ PLEASE ENCLOSE PAYMENT WITH YOUR ORDER. MAIL TO: Ministry Subscriptions -f 12501 Old Columbia Pike -f Silver Spring, MD 20904 -f Email: [email protected] -f Fax: 301.680.6502 June 2005 MINISTRY 21 due to adultery remains a former pastor for the rest of his life."1 Which policy? I would argue against this position for at least two reasons. First, it is inconsistent with past and present realities in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, even though it is true that Dr. Kis©s position regarding reinstatement to pastoral ministry is consistent with current North American Division and General Conference Working Policy. With only minor differences from the Pastors and General Conference policy, the North American policy reads, "A minister who ex periences a moral fall... shall be ineligible for sexual misconduct: future employment as a Seventh-day Adventist minister" (L 70 20 #2 NAD Working Policy). This policy goes on to state in subsec A response to Miroslav Kis tion L 70 20 #4 that "for the sake of the good name of the Church and the maintaining of moral standards," the fallen pastor "must Editorial Note: During the publication of the plan to devote his/her life to employment Mark Carr recent series of eight articles by Dr. Miroslav Kis other than that of the ordained/commis in Ministry, it became increasingly clear that sioned ministry, the teaching ministry, or alternative ways of viewing some of what was pre other denominational leadership." sented in his articles was present among the Effectively speaking and in reality, this pol Ministry reader family. The following article is icy is routinely ignored when various arms of gladly presented as a critique of Dr. Kis©s series, church employment, most significantly local and as an exposition of possible alternative ways and union conference presidents, hire minis of viewing and dealing with matters basic to this ters and issue credentials for rehabilitated, challenging topic, especially the matter of whether fallen pastors. Ironically, the breaking of, or or not pastors who have "fallen" morally should noncompliance with regard to current policy or should not be reinstated. and the rehiring that occur, is more consis tent with our past than is the policy itself or here are a number of matters what Dr. Kis advocates. raised by Dr. Miroslav Kis in his When it comes to present realities in the 2004, eight-part series of articles field, I personally know of at least a half a Dn pastoral infidelity that call for dozen relatively recent cases in which fallen response and critique. Two areas I and rehabilitated pastors have been placed in Thope will get future, more widespread atten churches by conference administration. In tion are first, an overdependence upon the many cases these pastors come back at the priestly model of clergy and second, his request of conference leadership. No doubt the explicit ranking of sins. reader can name an equal number of cases in My main emphasis in this article, however, which healthy pastoral leadership is the result. is to offer a critique and analysis on the ques The point is that rehabilitation and re tion of whether or not fallen clergy who have instatement of fallen but rehabilitated (What been through a rehabilitation period may or constitutes rehabilitation needs to be clearly Mark Carr, Ph.D., is may not be rehired as pastors. I believe the defined; see below) and reinstated pastors has theological co-director. Center for Christ/an most significant impact of Dr. Kis©s articles will happened in the past, it happens presently, Ethics, and associate be the effect of his position on this question. and it will probably continue to happen in professor of Christian When it comes to this matter, Dr. Kis©s bottom the future, regardless of what the Church©s ethics, Loma Linda line is forthrightly stated in the seventh of his Working Policy allows for. University, Loma eight essays (Ministry©s January 2005 issue): "In This is not necessarily bad or morally irre Linda, California. my view, the pastor who loses his credentials sponsible. While it is obvious that these 22 MINISTRY June 2005 practices must not be the sole reason patient is or what her circumstances to justify a change in policy, we are. The principle simply insists that should take it as a serious challenge to the abortion not be performed, period. the basic effectiveness and character On the other hand, the bottom up, of the policy when the field leadership or inductive, thinkers insist that the routinely ignores such policy. It may primary point of concern for resolving be a reason for revisiting and reformu any given case is the detail of the case. lating our policies. Principles might become important later and certainly have their place, but The Casuist tradition in in an effort to resolve a particular case, Seventh-day Adventism those involved in decision making The second reason for arguing must focus attention on the details. against an inflexible policy on this Casuists, as these bottom up pro question has to do with moral deci ponents are commonly called in sion making in the church. I wish to bioethics, argue that human beings assert that the method with which are guided in their thinking on such Adventists have traditionally dealt matters by prior cases that have ana with such matters is a blend of rigidity logical application in the present case. and flexibility. We have, throughout Such "paradigm" cases can help set our history, developed and held fast to the pattern for any given current case. rigid principles and policies, while at So, if we again take abortion as our the same time we have remained flex example case, if we have seen fit to ible toward the details of the particular offer abortions for anyone in the past, matter in question. we should consider it for the present More than three decades My area of academic expertise is in case also. The specific nature of the of practical wisdom and bioethics. In bioethics we spend signifi details of the case should be weighty cant time examining how humans enough to shape our moral decision insight gleaned from make moral decisions in situations of making in a certain direction. experience in ministry and intense moral importance. Typically This back and forth debate about these situations involve clinical health- how humans reason their way leadership, summarized care teams, patients, and family through moral difficulties is not new. in language that is clear members. For decades, bioethicists Peacemakers in this debate argue have argued about whether we should for a third, moderating position. They and applicable to every shape moral decision making from the assert that human moral reasoning is a pastor©s experience. This top down or from the bottom up. blending of principles and case details. Those who argue for a top down Faced with any given moral quandary book is an indispensable approach, or for deductive reasoning we begin reasoning from either princi tool for the pastor who in moral decision making, insist that ples or case details, and eventually we bring to any given situation a include the other perspective. is searching for practical number of moral duties in the form In this way, established principles of principles (or in the case of institu or policies are more finely interpreted and proven solutions to tions, policies that have been shaped and understood because of the details the everyday challenges of by underlying principles). of each subsequent case. Likewise So, for instance, on the basis of each case we encounter is placed in its feeding God©s flock. principles we glean from Scripture, the broader context through considera church has developed policy when it tion of the overarching principles. comes to moral issues such as divorce, Working Policy is very important to remarriage, family and sexual abuse, us; it always has been. Working Policy, extortion, abortion, and euthanasia. we must assume, is that to which God When a principlist faces a moral has led us. Yet, it is not fixed in stone quandary, she brings to the case these as if it were written by God©s own principles and applies them in an effort hand. Of equal importance is a con to resolve the conflict. If, for example, sideration of the details of any given the principle of not killing applies to moral quandary. Jesus himself mod GENERAL CONFERENCE MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION aborting fetuses, it matters not who the eled for us the importance of focusing 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 June 2005 MINISTRY 23 on persons struggling with specific From the annals of Adventist issues in the face of the application of church history some current policy. Examples of this A story that emerges from the days in His ministry are plentiful. of Ellen G. White is a fascinating one It is in the blending of the con and constitutes the second example cerns of both approaches that we find of more effective casuistic moral the preponderance of lived reality. thinking. This example revolves This is true of Scripture and it is true around the dispute of an Elmshaven of the experience of our church. I©ll church school board©s policy regard cite just two examples. ing the age children should be before they may be admitted into a kinder From Scripture garten educational program. First, consider the day Jesus was Ellen White had written that it was walking through the grain fields on not good to allow children under iscovering God's designs and the Sabbath with His disciples. In seven years old to enter formal school purposes for the future of the Church, and moving preemptively to their hunger they began to pick and programs. In this case, the school secure the future require intentional eat heads of ripened grain. When the board was determined to maintain effort. The 2005 Conference will focus religious leaders of Jesus© time saw this policy even if constituent parents on the role of innovation, creativity and this, they said to Him, "Look, Your wanted exceptions made. The school entrepreneurial mission in shaping church, school, and healthcare disciples do what is not lawful to do was able to invite Mrs. White to a communities of the future. on a Sabbath." But He said to them, meeting of the board, convened in "Have you not read what David did part to resolve this quandary. Topics include: when he became hungry, he and his Mrs. White was not impressed with • Visioning the future of the companions, how he entered the the decision making of the board in Adventist Church house of God, and they ate the con this matter. She actually mocked their * Learning to Innovate * Innovation and spirituality secrated bread, which was not lawful rigid adherence to what she had writ » Risks & Challenges in for him to eat nor for those with him, ten. Among other things she said that Thinking about Innovation but for the priests alone? Or have you night was the following comment that » Innovation in Church, School, not read in the Law, that on the was recorded in the minutes of this Conference, and Healthcare Organizations Sabbath the priests in the temple school©s board meeting: •» Partnering for Innovation break the Sabbath and are innocent? "©Why, sister White has said so and But I say to you that something so, and sister White has said so and so; Presenters include: greater than the temple is here" and therefore we are going right up to it.© Leland Kaiser (Matt. 12:1-8, NASB.) Kaiser Consulting The policies that had developed "God wants us all to have common Leanne Kaiser Carlson around Sabbath-keeping were good, sense, and he wants us to reason from The Kaiser Institute though strict and rigid. They involved common sense. Circumstances alter Kevin Kaiser the application of one of the Ten conditions. Circumstances change the The Kaiser Institute Commandments honoring the relation of things."1 Duane Covrig Sabbath. However, the overreliance Her words are consistent with the University ofAkron on this sort of policy had shifted the casuist focus on moral decision mak James Londis attention of church leadership away ing, namely, case details must shape Kettering Medical Center Network from the Sabbath©s essential meaning. our resolution of any given moral The point is that just as the Sabbath quandary. is greater than the policies developed by the Church leaders of Jesus© day to Some recommendations protect the sanctity of the Sabbath, so Given the disjunction we have also is the pastoral ministry in our pointed out between what is happen church greater than the policies we ing in the field and what is stated in have developed to protect it. When we the Working Policy, and given the come to the case where a fallen and allowance for casuist moral decision rehabilitated pastor is called once making in Seventh-day Adventism, I again to the ministry, we should not would urge the reshaping of current allow policy to restrict the blessing of Working Policy. The policy could be pastoral ministry in the church. written with an effort to build into it 24 MINISTRY June 2005 this blend of principles and case Policy when it comes to this matter. should include both relevant minis details; rigid rules and flexible 2. A detailed procedure needs to be terial and lay persons. response to persons. As well as we can developed (perhaps by the above task 3. In addition to the focus on the shape it, our policy should reflect the force or another) outlining the par effort to rehabilitate pastors, con best of what happens in the field. ticular characteristics necessary in the comitant study needs to be given to Currently, this is not happening. spiritual, personal, and professional finding specific ways of actually help Let me suggest three things: rehabilitation of fallen pastors who ing victims of pastoral sexual 1. Develop an international com desire such help. The group designing misconduct. Dr. Kis©s articles point mittee/task force to re-examine this procedure might recommend the out the difficulties of the person who current policy, including in it the pos development of an office or official has been the object of pastoral mis sibility of rehiring those fallen pastors within the Ministerial Association at conduct, and these victims must get who have in fact been rehabilitated. General Conference, division, and help from the church. The goal of this committee would be union levels that would oversee this It would be unacceptable to reinte- to bring about a change in Working process. This developed procedure continued on page 29 Adventist world church brings hope for big cities ver the next few years, the segments where the vast bulk of Trans-European Division plans to plant Adventists will make a special Americans are demographically lo and nurture 20 new congregations in O effort to establish congrega cated, we are baptizing only a compar London, Europe's largest city. The Euro- tions in large cities around the world. ative handful," says Monte Sahlin, Africa Division is planning long-term Over the next few years, Adventists will vice-president of Creative Ministries for church-planting projects in 12 cities— make a special effort to establish con the Columbia Union Conference and Paris, Istanbul, Berlin, Munich, Vienna, gregations in large cities around the author of Adventist Congregations Today. Sofia, Prague, Rome, Lisbon, Bucharest, world. A Hope for Big Cities offering will "The encouraging thing is that more Madrid, Zurich. They are calling their be collected in Adventist churches and more of our people are looking for project 72 Gates to the Kingdom: Building around the world on July 9 to provide creative ways to advance the mission of the Church, the City of the Future. • seed money for every region of the Christ in North America." North world church to focus on long-term America's Hope for Big Cities project is Gary Krause is director of the Office of Mission plans to establish and nurture new con Montreal, Canada. Awareness for the General Conference of gregations in major cities. Europe's increasingly post-Christian Seventh-day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland. According to some estimates, in five cities are largely untouched by the For further information on Hope for Big Cities, years time half the world's population Seventh-day Adventist Church. The please visit www.hope4cities.org will be living in urban areas. In 1950, only 18 percent of people in developing OTHER TARGET CITIES AROUND THE GLOBE countries lived in cities. In 2000 that had East-Central Africa Division—Bujumbura, Burundi; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia risen to nearly half the population. While Euro-Asia Division—Moscow, Russia there has been outstanding church Inter-American Division—Mexico City, Mexico (also several other cities with more growth in many parts of the world in than five million inhabitants such as Bogota, Caracas, and Guatemala City) recent years, growth in the cities has Northern Asia-Pacific Division—Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan; Kaoshiong, Taiwan; Suwon, been slow. The Adventist Church has Korea always been a rural church—it just has South American Division—Buenos Aires, Argentina not done well in big cities. Most of the big cities in North Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division—Johannesburg, South Africa, and 23 other major cities America are largely untouched by the Adventist Church. More than 80 per Southern Asia Division—Bangalore, India cent of Americans live in metropolitan Southern Asia-Pacific Division—Bangkok, Thailand, and Jakarta, Indonesia areas, but most Adventists don't. Only South Pacific Division—Sydney, Australia one in three Adventist congregations is West Africa Division—N'djamena, Chad located in the cities. "When it comes to June 2005 MINISTRY 25 duct, that individual is not to continue as a minister in the Church.2 In reality, the appli cation of these policies is not consistent. While it is true that some ministers who engage in sexual misconduct are dismissed from ministry, it is also true that others find employment in other Church entities, or even continue where they are. This lack of consistency creates confusion among minis ters and the Church generally. Thus, we live with a false assumptions. We think that sexual misbehavior by ministers brings about dismissal, but in reality the out Sexual promiscuity comes vary significantly. If we do not initiate change, cynicism will only increase among ministers and members. We must become and ministerial consistent in policy and application. accountability Theological perspective Our theological perspectives may be sum marized as follows: Editor©s note: This proposal is not intended 1. There are those who maintain that our to be an official statement of the Ministerial theology mandates that we dismiss ministers Nikolaus Satelmajer Association of the General Conference. It is process who engage in sexual misconduct. Again, the oriented, and presupposes further responsible theo problem is that we are not consistent in the logical and executive reflection. So far, the paper way we apply this theological position. If this has been presented to the Board of the Biblical is our theological position, then administra Research Institute and the North American tively the Church must address the issue of Division Human Relations Commission. It has unequal application or, as mentioned above, also been distributed and discussed in various pas our credibility will continue to erode. toral group settings. It is presented in Ministry for 2. Others maintain that our theology does purposes of ongoing discussion. not mandate automatic dismissal from min istry for those who have engaged in sexual inisters are individuals who misconduct. Some wish to assess the nature have responded to a call and gravity of the offense before such a deci from God, and whose call sion is made. Thus, in some instances has been confirmed by the rehabilitation is seen as an appropriate Church. They are entrusted response. While it is true that publicly many withM a sacred task. They1 are in constant and are reluctant to acknowledge this view, in personal contact with individuals. It is impor application this approach has been followed tant that they treat these individuals as in a number of cases. persons who belong to God. If this approach is to be applied, we need to Most ministers relate to others in a moral study and define our theology and outline its and ethical way. However, some behave application so we can proceed in a consistent, unethically and engage in immoral behavior equitable and unified manner. It needs to be or sexual misconduct. Some have theological, stressed that if this is the approach we are to Nikolaus Satelmajer, financial, or violence issues that violate their use, it does not mean that offending ministers D. Mm., is an ministry. This paper addresses the issue of sex will automatically continue in their role. associate ministerial ual misconduct by ministers and the question For their sakes, the sake of the victim or secretary of the of what the Church should do. The principles participant, and for the sake of the Church, General Conference may apply to other areas. such ministers must be held accountable. The of Seventh-day future of these ministers must be determined Adventists, Silver The present situation by their behavior, the attitude of the minister, Spring, Maryland. At present, policy assumes that once a the minister©s past behavior, a thorough minister engages in serious sexual miscon investigation by the Church, and finally a 26 MINISTRY June 2005 decision made by appropriate bodies employed in a similar role in another Further, it is important to realize within the Church. Theology and entity within the organization. that the Church has a significant application must be in agreement (There could be several other investment in a minister and the and consistent with one another. options.) In this instance, any organ credibility of the Church is at stake, ization of the church may feel free to not to mention the reputation of A proposed process employ this person. involved individuals. Whichever theological position we c. The panel may find that the alle While this paper suggests an take, we need to develop a more effec gations are more likely than not to be approach that should improve the tive process of handling sexual mis true and that the individual should process, it is only the beginning. conduct cases. This process must be not continue in the Seventh-day Additional work would need to be fair, consistent, and uniform.3 If an Adventist ministry. The employing done before such an approach can be accusation of sexual misconduct is organization will make its decision implemented.6 made, or if evidence of sexual misbe based on this report. If it chooses to havior comes to the attention of the ignore the committee decision, the 1 This paper refers to ministers, but similar procedure could be developed foi leadership of the employing organiza employing organization may be tak teachers and others 2 See GC Working Policy L 60 "Safeguarding Credentials the Integrity of the tion, the following procedure is sug ing legal and insurance risks. Likewise, "Safeguarding Credentials the Integrity of the Ministry.." D 70 "Harassment," gested: any organization that hires such an and D 80 "Suxual Misconduct in Church Relationships involving Denominations Employees or Approved Volunteers Model Procedures " The The administration of the employ individual will be taking legal and Church Manual (HO, 141) also has a brief section titled "Removing a Minister ing organization4 will determine if insurance risks. From Office " All of these policies give the primary responsibility of dealing with there is credibility in the accusation d. Appeal: An appeal process or evidence of pastoral sexual mis would be set up so that any of the case. The employing organization would be involved in the process If the conduct. If there is no credibility to parties (accused, accuser, employing the accusation, the matter will be leaders) may appeal the decision. be subject to input that is not helpful in the resolution process. Furthermore, it brought to a conclusion without any further action. If there is evidence the Conclusion employing organization since ordination is an act of the Church as a whole. If this following steps are suggested: If the above approach5 is followed, local or union. The policy would make provision for employees of other Church 1. The matter will be referred to a there will be greater consistency in the . and ir Professional Conduct Panel, which application of our theology and gov pastors Often when such re-marriage takes place questions are raised as to will have the responsibility of investi erning policy. The panel process may whether there was a basis for re-marriage Or not and the impact such re-marriage duct of ministers who, after accusation of sexual misconduct, resign. Their cases gating the matter and making the seem costly for some, though it is pos are not resolved and yet all too frequently we find them later in ministry The determination. sible for the group to meet on a specific such circumstances should in the future serve in the ministry 2. The panel will be made up of five occasion, which will shorten the over (suggested number) individuals who all process and keep expenses down. proceedings. This concern needs to be addressed will be from a trained pool within a division representing ministers and Renew your church©s passion for lay members. The committee hearing the case cannot have members from Christ©s coming and His Cross with the employing organization and must not have other conflicts of interest. 3. The panel will review the accu sation^) and make one of the following recommendations: a. The panel may find that under their investigation there is no basis for the accusation. They will then recom mend that the individual continue as an employee. This recommendation Powerful week-end or week-long seminars presented by Signs of the Times editor will be reviewed by and acted upon by and author Marvin Moore will help you and your church prepare for the end times the employing organization. without fear and with absolute assurance in Christ. b. The panel may determine that Seminars include: Hope for the End Time For more information or to minor, yet still inappropriate behav Victory in Jesus schedule a seminar for your church ior took place and that it was of such End-time Perfection go to www.hopeseminars.org nature that the individual should not And more or phone: (208) 409-9762 continue in the employing organiza tion, but that the individual may be June 2005 MINISTRY 27 PASTOR©s PASTOR Don't miss the boat early twenty-five years ago I If, like Nehemiah, you are too preoccu doubled my one fine-art print of pied with important matters to sink to N Edward Hicks's Noah's Ark with their level, these barking dogs will even a second ark. I inadvertently began a tually tire of their own noise and retreat collection that, had I realized its ulti or, better yet, join the mission. Don't mate size, I might never have chosen to stoop to the level of your critics. Never expand. wrestle with a pig. You cannot win and Today, guests who tour the General the pig enjoys the fight. Conference headquarters enjoy viewing Build your future on high ground. my display, which ranges from the Focus on eternity. Relegate low value remarkable and valuable to the truly issues to the level of their ultimate kitschy. My collection grows by the impact. For example, don't bog down well-intentioned generosity of those fighting over carpet colors when who ship items often addressed only to weightier matters are neglected. the one who collects Noah's Arks. "Planning is everything; plans are noth Likewise for interpersonal relationships. For a number of months now, I've ing." The very process of planning Thinking leaders talk about ideas and received numerous copies of a cartoon engages the creative spirit as well as the observe people. Reactionaries talk illustrating a woodpecker drilling a hole cooperation of those whose teamwork about people and only observe ideas. in the ark, accompanied by proverbial is needed for success. For safety©s sake, travel in pairs. truisms which may have some spiritual The woodpecker may have to go. Team ministry is Jesus's plan. Work two- value for pastors: Refuse to permit a few negative com- by-two for specific reasons such as Don©t miss the boat. Priorities are plainers to hold your congregation or safety (both of your person and your essential. Many urgent matters can pre your goals hostage by their repetitive reputation) and success (two are more occupy our attention as well as our drilling. Usually the vast majority are effective than one; plus each learns activities, but above all else, we must with you, and if your leaders concur from the other). Try to include your prioritize the things |esus prioritizes to with your vision, you are safe to ignore spouse in partnership as the modern prepare ourselves and our people for the vocal minority. fulfillment of our Lord's design. His return. How tragic to miss the boat! Stay fit. When you©re 60 years old, Speed isn©t always an advantage. Remember, we are all in the same someone may ask you to do some The snails were on board with the chee boat. Often it seems easier to compete thing really big. Our youth-saturated tahs. The more worthy a project, the than to cooperate. Our too-easily- society needs ministries to children and more time it may take to fulfillment. Get adopted attitudes of "us versus them" youth, especially the essential task of started. Making progress may be more can destroy our individual influence as deploying them in service for the important than completion. Faithfulness well as our corporate impact. Master. Equally important, we must is measured by consistency. Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when honor, value, and utilize the contribu When stressed, float awhile. If you Noah built the ark. If heaven's first rule tion of seniors whose time and talents cannot remember your last vacation, is "order," then planning becomes sustain multiplied church programs. then you have not taken sufficient time essential, whether long-range for the Don©t listen to critics; just get on off. Frenetic activity is no indication of growth of the church or shorter range with the job. If you allow skeptics and either importance or wisdom. No pas for sermons and worship services. scoffers to set your agenda, little or tor has ever been busier than Jesus, who Dwight D. Elsenhower said it well, nothing of import will be accomplished. regularly found time for spiritual, social, www.IVIinistpijMaqazinc.opq 28 MINISTRY June 2005 and recreational retreats. Take your days off. Even if you believe you don't need them, your spouse and your members know that you do! The ark was built by amateurs; & the Titanic by professionals. However, Coping with stress • Depression • Ministry satisfacti the ark's design specifications were from God. Nothing can limit the effec Relationshipnship issues 'Anxiety 'Burn-out• Burn-out ™^; - tiveness of amateurs as long as they All Appointments Strictly Private & Confidential follow heaven's plan. "•'ISiSSfi* 1 ' •„ ,.- No matter the storm, when you ' '"" " ' " Sjjor: appointnieitis_pr* info contact: are with Cod, there©s always a rain bow waiting. In this life, God's people Provided by will experience trials. A better world is Ministry Care Line & Ketteria| Counseling Center coming. His kingdom is just around the corner. Even during your lonely times, remember Jesus' promise, "I will see you again!" (John 16:22). If tempted to despair, refocus. The only thing that made life tolerable on board that ark full of smelly animals was the sure and certain knowledge that things were a whole lot worse on the making four expeditions up Mount consider only fantasy. Adolfi says, "I outside. If circumstances seem over Ararat in Turkey to search for Noah's believe our purpose at Bibleland Studios whelming and your problems multiply, ark. We are pleased to joint venture is best summarized, "Reaching the just remind yourself of how much worse with John and Christen Adolfi of heart through the imagination." things are outside. Bibleland Studios in bringing this artis In cooperation with scholars at Display booth theme. We have cho tic masterpiece to the session and Geoscience Research Institute, Creation sen "Don't Miss the Boat" for our making it available for purchase in your Research, and the Ellen White Estate, display booths at the upcoming St. churches and homes. Bibleland Studios is pleased to present a Louis session, and I hope thousands of Emphasizing highest-quality produc vivid, faith-affirming depiction of God's you will stop by for a chat and enter our tion techniques, the original 4x8 messenger, Noah, extending a final drawing for a free fine art print of "The canvas has been reproduced by invitation to accept God's mercy. Invitation," newly commissioned art by Hallmark's art division into 6,000 signed Please accept our invitation to view renowned artist Elfred Lee. In addition limited-edition prints of such quality this magnificent painting in person or to his extraordinary artistic capabilities, that each looks like an original. The stu online (see ad on page 18), and to own which have been featured at our dis dio's "wonder of reality," links online a copy for yourself. plays for the last two sessions, Lee has (www.ministerialassociation.com) and Above all, when you hear God's invi uniquely prepared for this painting by showcases as reality what others might tation, Don't miss the boat! Hi involved in churches in which the tain their fallen behaviors need not Pastors and sexual pastor©s sexual infidelity has affected concern us here. As a church we have misconduct not only his victims but also others in a moral obligation to them as well, continued from page 25 the congregation. but this article is explicitly focused on Conclusion those repentant, rehabilitated pastors grate a pastor into the ministerial In the end, I commend to you the who seek to answer God©s call to min workforce without proper care being real cases of the scores of pastors who istry. Under the grace of God and the given to those whose trust has been have suffered through a moral fall. I careful wisdom of church leadership, broken by that pastor©s misconduct. say suffered because for them it was a is it not possible does our faith not Regaining this trust is a significant fall, not a descent into something provide for the return of these men and difficult challenge and could they desired. Their hearts are repent and women to pastoral leadership? n have extended implications. ant, and they eagerly and sincerely The use of experts in ministry, psy wish to serve God and His church. 1 Ellen G. White, Selected Messages (Hagerstown, Md.: chology, and counseling could be Those who seek to justify and sus Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1980), 3:217. June 2005 MINISTRY 29 Center for Women Clergy opens at Andrews University ddressing the need to provide for seminary classes prepare for ministry Mexico, North America, and Europe, j growing enrollment of women through mentoring and networking, and range in age from early 20s to 60s. An seminary classes, the Center Mutch says. "The center will serve more than for Women Clergy opened at Andrews There are 95 female students in the women seminary students," Mutch says. University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. seminary, up 20 students from two "The number of undergraduate women "Obtaining professional degrees is years ago. Brooks explains that, in com students who are religion and theology equally important to women as to men, parison to the 500-plus enrolled in the majors is increasing at Andrews, as well so attending seminary is a logical next seminary, it may not seem like much, as at other Adventist schools. The center step following college," says Dr. Patricia but it's huge for female enrollment." hopes to include these undergraduate Mutch, vice president for academic "[We want to connect] women students in its networking." administration at the university. "Many through internships and professional After graduation from the seminary, of these women are also professionals ministry. We want pastors to mentor Mutch explains, women are involved in from other fields who have felt the call them.... We see the need to be an advo a variety of ministries, including pastor- to ministry and changed careers to cate, a listening ear," Brooks says. The ing in churches, youth ministry, and enter professional ministry." center is working to provide a system chaplaincy. "Women who are spouses of Seminary student Dilys Brooks has where "any woman, anywhere, who seminary students also take courses to been involved with the establishment of feels a call to ministry should know prepare them for team ministry." the center for three years. She took over there's someone she can call." This also The center is reaching out to other after another seminary student laid the means that after graduation, women Adventist institutions, letting them groundwork. Brooks talked with Mutch have someone in the ministry to connect "know we're here and what our pur and began developing a vision and with, "someone who can mentor." pose is," Brooks says, n "creating networking and support for Brooks, who describes the seminary women [who are] answering the call to as the "most amazing experience of my ministry," Brooks says. Other female life," says female seminary students seminary students have been involved she's talked to have felt a compelling Wendi Rogers is a reporter for the Adventist with the center's development as well. call to ministry. They come from all over News Network (ANN). Reprinted with permis The center helps women taking the globe, including Africa, Korea, sion from The Adventist Woman, Vol. 22, No. 2. lifel mm MINISTRY June ZOOS he Hamblin Company is Tthe best thing to happen in the industry for a long time. Their Christ-centered ou©ve heard the.. . focus and commitment to :r,^j)ed^the Jlaafe and excellence in every step ©:,t|eu preserWdthe of the process from under- hlawest? Thesis a^^ vstaiidffig your vision - to sequence* iiccess & design - to delivery of the product are exceptional." evangelism; HOPE will :i "- " BvronCorbett help you use these methods • • ' ' i i '' j,' -.'-ji'1 - '••& - • ,i , . 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