theadvocate.tv JULY 2015

News Slacktivism – What is it and how it can “To face the greatest challenges of life, we need to cultivate be a good thing. PAGE 12>> creative thinking.” JOHN MAXWELL PAGE 13>>

3 Sexuality Baptist Churches Western Australia puts the topic on the agenda >>

4 Medical miracle Barry Knowles’ remarkable journey >> Photo: Terry Hicks Mark Wilson and Brian Harris get to work on the site of a new facility at Vose Seminary.

8 Prayer walking Vose breaks new ground Having an impact on local communities >>

only the temperature but the and construction will be able to humidity levels. commence soon. In a significant development for Vose Seminary, Approximately 50 people then Significantly both former Director of Ministries Mark Wilson joined proceeded outside for the soil Principals of Vose Seminary Committed to Principal Brian Harris in June to break the first turning ceremony. There was an (formerly Baptist Theological air of optimism and excitement College) were able to attend the being honest, ground and mark the commencement of a new as Mark Wilson and Brian Harris ground breaking ceremony. construction project. dug their spades into the soil. The Dr Noel Vose (Founding transparent project was committed to prayer by principal), Dr John Olley and and above The new facility will significantly now being held on Saturdays due Dr Noel Vose and Mark Wilson. Dr Brian Harris represented the increase Vose’s seminar space and to the current space limitations, The tender for the new building whole life of the Seminary. This reproach. enable conferences of up to 200 to which will no longer occur on has been awarded to Lansdown added a special touch to the be held at the campus. completion of the new building. In Constructions and the Project occasion, with each having made In welcoming people to the closing he thanked those who had manager Ross Daniels stated that a significant contribution to the event, Mark Wilson highlighted contributed towards the build and he was looking forward to working growth and development of the that the Seminary student acknowledged God’s hand, not with them and the architect Ian Seminary. All three were excited BAPTIST CHURCHES numbers were growing, as well only in this project, but the quality Anderson in making the plans at this new development and the WESTERN AUSTRALIA as the programs on offer. He across all of the offerings at Vose. a reality. announcement of air conditioning also noted it would be the first It was also announced that It was indicated that one of the in the library. new building on the campus for there had been a generous delays in commencing had been Generous donations have many years. donation for air conditioning the need to have Western Power provided almost enough money Dr Brian Harris gave a brief in the campus library. The Vose provide a solution to relocating for the total cost of the project, history of the project mentioning library is recognised as the the overhead wires underground, but funds are still needed towards that further to the extra teaching most significant theological as well as increasing the supply of furniture and fit out. Tax‑deductible space, will be the addition of much library in Western Australia, and power to cater for air conditioning donations can be made to the Vose needed bathroom facilities. He there has been a real need for in the library. This is now well Building Fund through Baptist also explained that lectures were air conditioning to control not on the way to being resolved Churches Western Australia. 2 my view

JULY 2015 What does it mean to care?

Renowned Catholic Priest and Professor Henri Nouwen poses the question that what despair we have known – has always been central to the mission of Jesus, and all those who follow in His we are not alone. footsteps within the Christian church – what does it mean to care? And how do Nouwen states, “When we honestly ask ourselves which we do it in a way that is pastorally appropriate for those in need, and not just an person in our lives means the expression of our own expectations of what care looks like? most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving One of the greatest challenges or prognosis challenges our and doubts are just too big to be advice, solutions or cures, have in providing pastoral care is to ability to control, change or held within the framework of chosen rather to share our have the courage to empty our maintain power over our lives, our belief. For others, our faith pain and touch our wounds hands, close our mouths, and and reminds us of our frailty doesn’t answer the questions, it with a warm and tender hand. open our hearts – allowing our and vulnerability. We respond formulates them. The friend who can be silent grace filled presence to provide to these realities in ways as Life can at times bring us to with us in a moment of despair Jenni Ashton the space for honesty, empathy, diverse as the situations that our knees, and what we need or confusion, who can stay Jenni Ashton is Manager compassion and ultimately, cause them in the first place. most from those who offer us with us in an hour of grief and Pastoral Services, St John of healing and wholeness. Often regardless of, and in spite pastoral care, is an acceptance bereavement, who can tolerate God Murdoch Hosptial. Sickness and death confront of the depth of faith we bring that it doesn’t matter where the not knowing, not curing, not our fundamental beliefs about to our experience. For some, pain of life has taken us – what healing and face with us the ourselves and our relationships. in the midst of despair, it can questions we have cried, what reality of our powerlessness, An unexpected diagnosis feel as if the questions, fears doubts we have whispered or that is a friend who cares.”

Dangerous prayer

I recently started a message at church by asking: “So which of these three do you live by. Perhaps you can sense think is the most dangerous: skydiving, motor racing or prayer?” I could see that what he means. You start at although most guessed that prayer would be the answer (this being a sermon), the beginning of the prayer, and pray ‘Our Father’ – and they doubted I would be able to justify it. After all, since when has prayer been suddenly realise how many are hazardous for your health? included in the ‘Our’. We have to radically include those we usually overlook. And you What they didn’t know was “Sure – I’d like you to be a part of might fail and we could edit can’t pray, “Your Kingdom that I had been asked to write that answer. Prepare to relocate our prayers so that they always come, Your will be done, on a commendation for Darren and change your career so you fall into the safe category – earth as it is in heaven” unless Cronshaw’s not yet published are in a better position to do so.” “God bless me, myself and I.” you are willing to live by the book Dangerous Prayer. It’s an Or, “God, I am really troubled So do you pray safe prayers, radically different standards Dr Brian Harris excellent and challenging read. about the 50 million refugees or do you sometimes launch into of heaven. It’s then that the Dr Brian Harris is the So why is prayer dangerous? who have no place to call home.” dangerous prayer? Cronshaw prayer becomes a creed to Principal of Vose Seminary Well what if God expects us to “So am I. Start befriending some suggests that even the Lord’s live by. and Pastor at Large for the be the answer to some of the who have recently relocated to prayer is potentially hazardous, The book comes out next Carey Group. things we pray about? “God, Australia, and champion their and invites us to view it both as year, but why not risk praying please end the child sex trade.” cause.” After a while our courage a prayer to pray and a creed to dangerously now?

Fall from grace

I recently received an email from a colleague who I’d not seen for years, course of my life had I not explaining how they had fallen on hard times and it contained a request for been on the receiving end of money. A follow‑up email included bank details and the hope that I might be able other people’s financial help and generosity. to help out. The widening gulf between rich and poor, makes I assumed that their email address and do not turn away from the they’d fallen off the edge of it seem likely that ever more had been hacked so I ignored it. one who wants to borrow from a cliff. Poverty, as it says in people will fall off the cliff However, when a further email you’. When I went back to the Proverbs, had fallen upon them and not get up again. As my arrived, explaining a little more text and searched for get-outs ‘like an armed man.’ colleague’s story shows, the and leaving a phone number to and caveats I couldn’t find any. As I listened to my contingent, fragile nature of call, I began to see it as a genuine, All my ‘uming’ and ‘ahing’ colleague’s story, the reasons life is a reality for all of us. It’s desperate request for help. was rendered redundant when for their descent seemed not a failure of imagination not Rhidian Brook Before calling I went through I actually spoke to them. They to matter so much; it was the to be able to picture yourself Author of The Aftermath, the list of reasons not to help, all had indeed fallen on hard times. ‘this-could-be-you-ness’ of their falling off the edge, but one we Rhidian Brook is an sound, all sensible. That same day, Their life had seemed secure: plight that struck home. The all should picture because, in award winning novelist, with irritatingly apt timing, I read they’d had steady work, a good thought that it ‘could have been the end, the thing that catches screenwriter and broadcaster. the bit of scripture where Jesus relationship, a decent flat in a me’ wasn’t just a platitude; it someone’s fall from grace – is says: ‘give to one who asks you, nice part of town. Then suddenly was and had been me over the someone else’s grace. letters to the editor send us your letters

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

JULY 2015 Sexuality and the Church

In his book, Sex and the iWorld, Dale Kuehne states that:“The challenge for Christians in the 21st century is not to use the same old arguments to try to persuade the West of the truth of the traditional teaching on sexual ethics. If these arguments were still persuasive, public opinion and behaviour would not be what they are. Yet neither should Christians blindly or reflexively adjust theology to accommodate the sexual revolution without adequate scriptural support.”

A question heard regularly the Church – Ministering “We live in a confusing from pastors, Christian in a Confused Landscape” landscape when it comes leaders and people in the seminar at Mount Pleasant to sexual expression today,” pew is, “How do we minister Baptist Church on Wednesday he said. “So how does a to people who come to our 12 August 2015. church welcome and love the churches with such differing, Speakers on the day include transgender person who starts and in some cases, quite Vose Seminary Principal attending their services, while confused ideas of sexuality and Dr Brian Harris, Morling College not affirming their lifestyle, and sexual expression?” NSW Principal Dr. Ross Clifford, is that purely a lifestyle choice Marriage has been CEO of Olive Tree Media or are there other issues that we dramatically affected, given a Pastor Karl Faase and Forensic need to consider?” Sexuality and sexualisation is apparent everywhere in today’s modern recent statistic from the United Sexologist and lecturer at Tabor Topics to be covered on society – Baptist Churches Western Australia is putting the topic on States. Depending on which College Perth Sandra Basham. the day include the biblical, the agenda. data you read, between 40 Pastoral Consultant for theological and philosophical percent to 65 percent of married Baptist Churches Western underpinnings of human extremely pleased to be able to The seminar is open to women are having affairs. Australia and coordinator of sexuality and what it means for host this event which we believe church leaders and attendees And a website that arranges the day, Pastor Rob Furlong, a church to care for the most will be of enormous benefit to of all denominations. dates for single people with said that the speakers “are vulnerable in the community. our own churches and to the more traditional beliefs asked well qualified to speak on this “It will be a challenging wider body of Christ in Perth,” For more information or to book, its members between the ages subject and will bring a breadth and informative day. We are Pastor Furlong said. visit www.baptistwa.asn.au of 18 to 59 “Would you sleep of experience, theological with your partner/date before understanding and practical marriage?” A staggering 65 wisdom to one of the greatest percent of respondents said yes! challenges facing the church It is for this reason that today – how do we welcome Baptist Churches Western people into our churches in Wednesday 12th August 2015 Australia are hosting the the name of Jesus without MOUNT PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH upcoming “Sexuality and affirming their lifestyle?” 497 Marmion St. Booragoon WA 9am - 4pm Cost: $50.00 The value of prayer Includes lunch, morning and afternoon tea

Phil Bryant

If you are like me, you have heard of people crying out to God in times of trouble or stress. Often they have come to the end of their own efforts and resources, and instinctively feel that they have nowhere else to go. Maybe you have done this yourself!

Prayer has been defined as celebration finished, God came MINISTERING IN A CONFUSED LANDSCAPE ‘communication between God to him at night and said ‘I have and His special creation, human heard your prayer … if my people, beings’. If we follow the example who are called by my name, will of Jesus, it is a time that we set humble themselves and pray and aside to communicate with God. seek my face and turn from their This involves both listening to wicked ways, then I will hear God and talking with God. from heaven, and I will forgive At Baptist Churches Western their sin and will heal their land.’ Australia, we are aware that [2 Chronicles 7:12-14 NIV] many people in our churches Among other things, it is Speakers pray. They have personal times evident that when God’s people DR Ross Clifford of prayer, small group prayer come to Him corporately, with and congregational prayer. an attitude of humility and Ps Karl Faase It is not often that we have the repentance, He acts. The world, DR Brian Harris opportunity to get together to our nation and churches are pray as a denomination. Yet there facing many challenges. Baptists Sandra basham were times in the Old Testament Churches Western Australia For further details: 6313 6300 or [email protected] when we see the whole nation of recognise that and are inviting register at: www.baptistwa.asn.au/view/events Israel came together to pray. our people to come together to Solomon called his people pray at Morley Baptist Church on together to dedicate the temple in Saturday 22 August from 10 am Jerusalem. After the prayer and to noon. 4 news

JULY 2015 Cultures unite in worship

Jacqueline Outred

In a unique event congregations from 12 multicultural churches gathered together for combined worship at the ‘Pentecost Celebration: A Gathering of Nations’ service.

The event held in May saw a Prior to this year’s celebration, dozen different ethnic groups only two combined worship represented at host venue Morley services of this type have been Baptist Church. held; a combined multicultural “The purpose of the event Easter celebration in 2013 and the was to nurture unity among Judson Bicentennial celebration multicultural churches,” Cross in July of the same year, which Cultural and Indigenous drew the largest multicultural Ministries Consultant at Baptist congregation in one sitting. Churches Western Australia Rev. With such a positive response, Victor Owuor said. “The value of Owuor says he intends to holding it during Pentecost is to organise similar gatherings emphasise the universal church’s annually. “This year’s celebration task of proclaiming the gospel to has created excitement among all nations.” many who are now looking Photos: Victor Owuor forward to next year’s event,” WA Chin Christian Church, Perth Karen Baptist, Arabic Church, Matu Christian Church and Kenyan Fellowship he said. congregations came together to worship in May. The purpose of the event was to nurture Mesothelioma patient a medical miracle unity ... Jacqueline Outred

The event offered a rare opportunity for multicultural Diagnosed with the asbestos-related lung disease, churches around Perth mesothelioma in February 2010, Parkerville Baptist to join in fellowship and Church’s Barry Knowles was given six to twelve develop friendships between congregations. Organisers months to live. Barry has defied the odds and lives

hope that the event will support on determined to help in the battle against this fatal, Photo: Knowles family multicultural churches in the but largely invisible disease. Barry Knowles and his family at the launch of his book Reflections unique challenges they face Through Reality. when crossing cultural barriers to proclaim the gospel in Australia Barry’s autobiography, In his book, Barry shares his and don’t want to waste the time Barry and his daughter and beyond. Reflections Through Reality, was family’s darkest hours – the shock I have been given,” he said. Jo have gone on to establish Pastor Zaw Win of Myanmar officially launched at an event of his diagnosis; his subsequent Unique in the fact that most a not‑for-profit charity. The Baptist Church, Perth was hosted by Slater and Gordon battle with ill health; his fight for victims don’t live long enough proceeds from his book will the main speaker for the Lawyers at the Harry Perkins compensation, and his hope as he to do so, Barry wrote down his fund medical research into event. “Zaw encouraged the Institute last month. faces an unknown future. story to provide hope and support asbestos-related diseases. congregation to trust upon the Guest speakers included one After diagnosis, the progress for other victims. “I feel that my presence and power of the Holy of the world’s leading experts of the disease was rapid and by remaining time is valuable and For more information, Spirit who imparts life wherever in lung disease Professor Bruce October 2010 Barry was facing his want to do what I can to help or to purchase a copy He goes, while using believers as Robinson and Managing Director final days. “Through nothing short others in the fight against this of the book, visit witnesses of his divine salvation,” of the ABN Group Dale Alcock. of a miracle, I am still here today insidious disease,” he said. www.reflections.org.au Owuor said. digital church

4/6/15 10/6/15 realised that suffering assures 12/6/15 whether you are attempting Ben Reaoch Louie Giglio us of God’s presence, bearing Steve Dilla to find counterfeit joy and desiringgod.org twitter.com/louiegiglio His mark of love upon us twitter.com/stevendilla satisfaction in the things He When it comes to Our mess is the canvas on and displaying His sovereign In hearing and praying through forbids. At any moment, your remembering God’s which God paints His story control over every detail of the Psalms we find spiritual heart has a purpose for your faithfulness, we can be of redemption. our lives? vitality in a world austere to phone. Yes, thank God for your especially forgetful…“Don’t the divine. smartphone, plead with Him you remember what God 12/6/15 12/6/15 for wisdom to use it well, and just did for you? God brings Kristen Wetherell Nils Smith 15/6/15 guard your heart. us through a trial, answers a thegospelcoalition.org twitter.com/NilsSmith Tim Challies prayer, and within a few days Often, we think of suffering [Genesis 9:16] When I see challies.com 19/5/15 it’s almost forgotten. We’re as proof of God’s absence or the rainbow in the clouds, But where your heart is, Craigg Roeschel already looking to the next as displaying a flaw in God’s I will remember the eternal there your technology will twitter.com/craiggroeschel struggle on the horizon and person, such as a lack of love covenant between God and be also. The way you use ‘As for me, I will always have finding reasons to gripe and (“If God loved me, he wouldn’t every living creature on earth. your technology reveals your hope; I will praise you more complain… Let us not forget. let this happen”) or a lack of heart. It shows whether your and more’. [Psalm 71:14] May we be people who fight sovereign power (“This is heart is oriented toward God spiritual amnesia with God- disastrous. How could God let and toward finding true joy Compiled by given means of remembrance. this happen?”). But what if we and satisfaction in Him, or Breege McKiernan news 5

JULY 2015 Did Jesus rise from the dead?

Jacqueline Outred

It is a topic that has been debated for generations: ‘Did Jesus rise from the dead?’

Both sides of the argument presented their case in May to an audience of over 500 ‘jurors’, in a replica courtroom in the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre. Using the standards expected from a modern judicial enquiry in Western Australia, two experienced barristers took on the monumental challenge of representing both sides of this question, in a condensed three hour session. Atheist barrister and Treasurer for Australian Skeptics Inc. Mr Martin Hadley served as

the counsel for the Defendant Outred Jacqueline Photo: and called Associate Professor An audience of over 500 listened to two opposing sides present their case on the topic of ‘Did Jesus rise from the dead?’ and teacher of Philosophy at UNSW Peter Slezak as his but important, question ‘are the The article was read by those who identify as neither. bring the gospel of Christ expert witness. gospel writers actually telling both sides of the debate in An atheist attendee, James, actively into context in an Mr Ian Davidson SC served what they saw, or are they just preparation for the event. was excited to witness a debate environment where they’re out as counsel for the Plaintiff, making it up?’” Perth Director of City on the subject. “At the event, of context, maybe in the great calling on Emeritus Professor Judge has written on this Bible Forum Paul Whitfield James plied Christians with his CBD area where people live their and second chair of History at topic before, at the start of organised the event. “Jesus’ questions and is keen to pursue [day-to-day] lives.” Macquarie University Edwin his career in 1968. A front- resurrection is the reason for answers further,” Whitfield said. City Bible Forum Perth Judge AM as his expert witness. page article in The Australian Christian hope. We don’t have City Bible Forum has a held forums throughout June “[The question] has been newspaper on Christmas Eve to guess what the future holds, history of facilitating the to facilitate deliberations and debated for 2000 years, there’s titled, ‘Where is the history of God has shown us in history interaction between the Bible help the jurors arrive at a nothing new about that Jesus?’ discussed the likelihood and in a way our courts can and the community. “The final decision. history,” Judge said before the that the resurrection, as assess,” he said. City Bible Forum is actually event. “I intend to advance the reported in the gospels, was true The event was attended an evangelistic organisation,” For more information, argument beyond the simple, from an historical perspective. by Christians, atheists and Judge explained. “It aims to visit www.jesusontrial.org.au

From writing to discipling For the sake of the world Karen Wilson

“I’ve been meeting with a group of Nepalese people for about I recently heard someone say that “life has to 18 months. Due to their work be more than just the next best coffee,” and I rosters, they cannot go to church couldn’t agree more. We are so accustomed to on Sundays, so we do church on Tuesdays to facilitate them,” Jill said. meeting our own needs we can sometimes forget Seeing God in the scriptures that there is a world that needs us! and in answered prayers has brought spiritual vitality to the I am challenged by the September’s Fresh Conference group and the expectation that words of Jesus when He is all about doing that. The God can do similar things for other tells His followers: “There conference is for women people. Networks of family and is no greater love than to from all over, and highlights friends make ideal connections lay down one’s life for one’s speakers who teach from for more sharing of the good news friends.”[John 15:13 NLT] scripture, who have a heart

Photo: Sara Birt about Jesus and engaging with So you have to ask the for justice across our planet Jill Birt has left The Advocate’s team for a ministry role making disciples God’s Word. question: “What would it mean and who can convey God’s of Jesus. “We’re praying regularly for to lay down our life?” For heart to each of us. Women family and friends, neighbours and most of us that is not going to gather, learn, are inspired, are people in local communities, for require the ultimate sacrifice, mobilised and see God move opportunities to build friendships but for all of us it means through this event each year After more than five years working as the and learn from one another. I changing our focus. It means to touch the lives of those who subeditor of The Advocate, Jill Birt has returned sense I am to be an encourager of finding what matters to God attend and then others all over to pastoral ministry. people through the networks God and putting Him first in the the world. has given me to share the Good daily choices we make. The Fresh Conference will News of Jesus, to pray boldly asking Imagine a world where we be held on 11 and 12 September Jill has commenced working with Park area and beyond,” Jill said. God to work and to help multiply embrace a life of generosity at Morley Baptist Church. Praxeis, a church planting group There is a large population of communities of Jesus’ followers,” and make a difference in the that develops networks of small migrants who come to Western Jill said. lives of others. It has always For more information groups of followers of Jesus. Australia on 457 work visas, Praxeis has workers all been God’s plan to use us to or to register, visit “My plan is to work with with many working in the over Australia, as well as Spain be a blessing to others and www.freshconference.net migrant workers in the Victoria hospitality industry. and Hungary. 6 news

JULY 2015 Youth combine for Jesus

Tahlia Storms

Over two hundred and ninety young people came together for the first Combined Baptist Churches WA Youth Service of the year on Friday 5 June at Riverton Baptist Community Church.

In response to the service in free sausage sizzle. “While the excess of 70 young people young people tend to stay with expressed a desire to learn more their own youth group, some of about Jesus, and almost 50 the brave ones step out of their wanted to get baptised. comfort zones to meet new The event runs biannually, people”, Palmer commented. with one service held north and Palmer and the Riverton the other south of the river. “The Youth leaders decided to begin idea of the event is to show the the service with images of all youth we’re all in this together. the Youth Groups that attended. Groups of all different shapes It was followed by worship music and sizes can be part of it. It led by the Riverton youth music brings unity”, Riverton Baptist team, a collection of young Community Church Youth Pastor people and leaders. and Youth and Young Adults One of the original Consultant for Baptist Churches coordinators of Combined WA Craig Palmer explained. Baptist Youth Chris Green gave

The night brought young the message. “Chris told them Photo: Riverton Baptist Community Church people from Baptist Churches about the Kingdom of God, Hundreds of young people gathered at Riverton Baptist Community Church in July for a night of worship and fun. across Perth together. Attendees [how] it has funny expressions came from Bentley, Carey, Como, [such as] the first shall be last, The first invitation was for this”, Palmer remarked, “we didn’t Riverton had a number of East Fremantle, Eaton, Harmony, it’s better to give than to receive. those who had never accepted know how big the response was their young people who wished Mount Hawthorn, One Church, The kingdom’s we create for Jesus as their Saviour before until we read the response cards”. to get baptised, 12 of who will be Riverton and Rockingham. ourselves are temporary, but to which over 12 responded to. Forty-nine declared they wanted baptised in a fortnight as part of The night began with we can access God’s eternal The second call was for those to get baptised, and 72 wanted their Youth event. activities, including games Kingdom through Jesus”, Palmer who wanted to recommit their to follow Jesus. Each church’s The next Combined Baptist of dodge ball, roasting explained, “Chris gave them lives to Jesus and many came Youth Group will be following up Churches WA Youth Service will marshmallows around a fire the invitation to come into forward. “This is the biggest crop on those who responded from be held at Inglewood Community pit, gaming machines, and a God’s Kingdom.” we’ve sown from a night like their group. Church on 27 November.

Christians in business Regional recommitments Tahlia Storms

The first Great Southern High School Youth Rally event occurred from 15 to 17 May and brought 50 youths, 15 leaders and volunteers together.

Coordinated by Tania Severin The Rally speaker Craig

Photo: Jacqueline Outred Jacqueline Photo: and the Katanning Baptist Sullivan centred his messages An exciting new initiative saw over 40 Christian business professionals gather in June to network and Church Youth Group, the Youth on the Gospel message: compare notes. Rally brought groups from Christ, the Cross, and the across the county together for Commandments. Jacqueline Outred business professional, quickly the weekend. Young people emerging as a leader in his came from the Baptist churches field and among other business of Albany, Broomehill, Collie, A new initiative for Christian business professionals in Perth. Cranbrook, Jerramungup, The most professionals to meet and network with likeminded Scott participated in a Q&A Kojonup, Mt Barker and exciting thing individuals from a range of different industries has session on the night, allowing Tenterden. The Youth Rally was attendees to ask their questions held at Kobeelya and was filled was the 13 been launched. about marketing in the to capacity. digital age. Prior to the camp, most of recommitments Over 40 people gathered “Business ownership and “I jumped at the opportunity the young people did not know at the inaugural ‘After 5’ leadership is often a lonely place,” to host the first ‘After 5’ Business each other. The Youth Rally was to God that took Business Sundowner on 28 he said. “The ‘After 5’ Business Sundowner,” Ingram said. designed so that there would place after the May 2015, in the foyer of Sundowner is designed to be “It fills a huge need amongst be plenty of opportunity for 98.5 Sonshine FM radio. a fun gathering for members Perth business leaders – them to build relationships and second message. The free event was and prospective members to evident by the turnout and connections, especially with organised by Business fellowship, network and chat over duration of the event. It was those in the same school year. Edge, Perth and Western a wine, beer or soft drink.” great to see over 40 Christian “This will help them when Australia. The firm’s Helium Digital Marketing, a business leaders in the same they move up to Perth to go to While the weather was windy Executive Director Perth-based company providing room, sharing their values and University,” Severin explained, and rainy, it didn’t hinder the James Benjamin said online marketing services to small business knowledge.” “but the most exciting thing young people’s enthusiasm or he started the event to businesses and start-ups hosted was the 13 recommitments to enjoyment of the Rally. When facilitate relationships the event. For more information about God that took place after the asked if they will host another and camaraderie among Its Director Scott Ingram upcoming events, email second message. The kids are Youth Rally in the future, all Tania Christian business leaders. is himself a young, Christian [email protected] inspirational. They are hungry could say was that “we certainly to hear more about God”. would like to! Yes, definitely!” news 7

JULY 2015 Parents learn for a good cause

Jacqueline Outred to the village where we are conducting training, and Renowned parenting expert and author Maggie towards supporting our Living Dent was the special guest at a seminar looking at Child PNG Midwife, Rhondy the topic of ‘Building Resilience and Self Esteem in Ktumusi,” she said. Living Child Inc. works Today’s Children.’ within the community to provide support to young Riverton Baptist Community The event was held as mothers and education on Church played host to a community fundraiser safe motherhood practices. Maggie with the 2 June event for Living Child Inc., a not- “[We teach them] how to look attracting a large contingent for-profit, non-government after a newborn immediately of parents looking to learn charity that aims to reduce the after birth and for the first and grow. maternal and infant death rate few weeks. [We give them] Maggie’s seminar explored in the remote villages of Papua knowledge on how to assist 10 essential building blocks for New Guinea. a woman giving birth and building resilience and self- “We were very excited to how to stop heavy bleeding,” esteem for all children from raise over $8,000 for Living Daviv said. birth to 12. These building Child Inc.,” Jenifer said. “Already the women are blocks improve the cognitive, Living Child Inc. telling us that since Living

psychological, emotional and representative Sara Daviv Child has been visiting them Imaging Vibrant Photo: social health of children for life. said the funds raised on the in the remote villages, they Author and parenting specialist Maggie Dent spoke at a special seminar Organiser Jennifer Smith night would help deliver high- have hope. They have told us in June held at Riverton Baptist Community Church. said “Maggie’s presentation quality training to Village Birth on many occasions that they was engaging, uplifting Attendants, Community Health believe that God has heard with essential health services the Health Centre open again and hilarious, with guests Workers and Midwives working their prayers and has sent for families. “We’re gathering having been shut for 10 years,” describing it as ‘a joy to in remote villages of the East Living Child to help them.” data from households to assist Daviv said. listen to’. Maggie focuses Sepik Province. Living Child Inc. us in identifying where the on giving parents the tools “The funds will go towards will continue to look for greatest needs are, and currently For more information on and confidence to tackle the transport costs associated opportunities to serve the assisting and mentoring leaders Living Child Inc., visit challenges of parenting.” with getting these people people of Papua New Guinea in the village of Bunam to get www.livingchildinc.com

briefs Beautifying Newman SPORTSFEST small church competition – who Sportsfest is a great opportunity will take the title in 2015? If your qualified hairdressers in the for young people aged 15 to 28 church hasn’t registered a team town. There are issues with from metropolitan and regional yet, think about it now. There affordability of services, areas of Western Australia to are some exciting changes racism and the shame come together for a fantastic planned for this year. Sportsfest associated with chronic weekend of sport, ministry and will be held over the weekend head lice.” fellowship. Riverton won the from 25 to 28 September. For “Many of the Martu girls overall competition in 2014, more information, visit are bleaching their hair with a with Parkerville taking out the www.sportsfest.org.au variety of unsafe products, to achieve looks that they have seen online,” she said. EmpowerAID provides A challenge to refocus training for women in these remote communities so that they can provide vital services Many people are disengaging from the church. like hairdressing. Those who still attend only turn up every second or “Our pilot courses are third week. designed to help establish what training needs there are in disadvantaged and This and other challenges were that like concrete, deeds can be marginalised areas, both presented to 65 people from seen and measured.

Photo: ImaJEPhoto: Photography locally and overseas. There 24 Churches who attended The speakers emphasised Hairdressers in training – Martu women learn new skills. are a number of communities an all day seminar at Yokine that leadership in our churches where training needs are Baptist Church on 17 June need to be committed to ”not Jacqueline Outred not currently identified 2015. Dan Paterson and Karl ditching the deeds but also and or provided for a Faase provided information, a reclaiming the Word.” They also whole variety of reasons. challenge and options on how need to live a lifestyle committed Earlier this year Newman welcomed a team of EmpowerAID volunteers want to relate to our communities and to it. visiting hairdressers to the region. From 26 April to serve women in this gap,” present the Gospel message in a Those who attended were to 9 May, a team of five hairdressers and three Quartermaine said. pertinent way. presented food for thought as “For the Martu women, More attended a seminar that well as ways forward to reach our support staff provided training and services to the the [hairdressing] course night to continue the discussion communities with the challenge Martu community. was about social well- and explore these issues. of the Gospel, being confident in being, and an introduction “Churches have always been the gospel message. The Martu people are “The need for a Martu to the hairdressing and at their best when word and deed Baptist Union (BU) Church traditional custodians of the salon became quite evident personal services industry are involved,” said Karl. Consultant Rob Furlong Newman area. The remote whilst we were in Newman,” and what that might look So why has the church in said “the day was extremely community faces some of the said Jennifer Quartermaine like for their community,” many ways superseded the word challenging and presented common issues of isolation from EmpowerAID. “They Quartermaine said. with deeds? Discussion focused a much needed message of and cultural conflict, meaning don’t attend the hairdressers around such reasons as if church getting back to proclaiming the that access to basic services for a range of reasons, For more information, email is seen as culturally appropriate, Gospel in a clear, thoughtful and is difficult. including a shortage of [email protected] if it is popular and the concept caring way.” 8 news

JULY 2015

the people movements of the B – Body Kingdom of God can trace L – Labour/work Prayer Walking takes time, effort and commitment, their beginning to saturating E – Economics but it makes a vital contribution to teams that are prayer by faithful Christians.” S – Social intent on impacting their local community with “I’ve been learning some S – Spiritual things about myself since I the Kingdom of Heaven. started praying in my local “This prayer acrostic is very area. I’m learning to linger – to effective in prayer walking. engage with people rather than “Bless” people you pray for and There is something Biblical about representatives here on earth keep to my schedule. It almost see how God uses your prayers walking the land. In the first few asking for a shift in the spiritual feels like wasting time, but it’s to open the hearts and lives of verses of Joshua it says, “After and physical atmosphere. We ‘being’ in my community. It’s people you encounter during the death of Moses the servant of don’t want land to impose our smiling and engaging people. your prayer walks,” Curtis the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua ideals of what Christianity I’ve learnt that I see different Sergeant says. son of Nun, Moses’ assistant. should be like upon it, we things if I walk early in the day Praxeis church planters ‘Moses my servant is dead. Now want His kingdom expressed when the aroma of fresh coffee Andrew and Mindy Pyman then, you and all these people, in His way, in a way that is starts to permeate the morning recently returned to their get ready to cross the River most conducive to change air. That’s when you see the home in Sydney after seven Jordan into the land I am about happening in the lives of the homeless as well as the early weeks of prayer walking in to give to them – to the Israelites. people and lands we love. It is workers. I’ve discovered you Western Europe. I will give you every place where about us as servants treading see different things when you “We’ve found prayer walking you set your foot, as I promised gently and walking humbly reverse your route too. It really to be a great way to start Moses. Your territory will extend throughout the land asking does make a difference seeing understanding the spiritual from the desert to Lebanon, for our King’s kingdom to be the sun push the shadows back climate and demographic and from the great river, the established in whatever way he at a different angle,” Jill said. makeup of an area. When you Euphrates - all the Hittite country chooses,” Brian says. have a limited existing network – to the Mediterranean Sea in the The practicalities of Prayer Brian Heasley has of contacts in the community, west.” Joshua 1:1-4 Walking are not complex. some practical tips for it is an effective way to connect Twenty years ago a team Jill Birt lives and works Prayer Walking. and share the gospel with new of 25 young adults left the in the Victoria Park area of 1. Find out the history of people,” Andrew Pyman said. comfort and ease of the church suburban Perth. your area, go to historical “You can build a team they had worshipped with for places and pray. through both finding ‘workers several years and headed to 2. Go to gateways such for the harvest’ (Jesus wanted an area of Perth’s developing as roundabouts, major his disciple to pray for this when southern suburbs to plant a new We’ve found intersections ports and he sent them out in Luke 10:2) church and develop a Christian other entrance points to from the place you are prayer school. Pastor Steve Izett led prayer your town. walking and through training that group as they started Carey 3. Pray outside hospitals, current team members by going Community Baptist Church and walking to schools, local government prayer walking to find open, Carey Baptist College. be a great buildings and any other hungry and connected people There was opposition and centre of influence. from the community. Jesus frustration, but also many way to start 4. Keep bible verses that called these people ‘people of opportunities to see God at come to mind whilst peace’ in Luke 10,” he said. work as he answered prayers understanding walking. Pray them back Andrew and Mindy believe with timing that confirmed his the spiritual to God. Find some specific that vision is caught in prayer. blessing and provision. bible verses and pray them “God speaks to us about his At one stage, when climate and over your town. heart for an area or group of permission to subdivide a parcel people. This happens in new of land was rejected again, demographic Brian Heasley believes it is areas and in areas we have the whole team came together makeup of probably better to talk about walked regularly,” Andrew said. several times and walked redeeming the land rather than The need for more workers the boundary of the block, an area. possessing it. to work in the harvest often asking God to intervene. They “(Church planter) Floyd comes to the fore when teams were putting their feet where McClung once challenged me are prayer walking. they longed to see God come to ‘concentrate on blessing “We often find ourselves and reign. “Prayer walking takes time. not selling,’ which makes me praying for ‘more workers for Prayer walking teams You can work as a team of two or very conscious of blessing the the harvest’ – a prayer Jesus continue moving across the three, or multiple groups. As you land, not invading it,” Brian commanded his disciples to globe, seeing results as they pray walk, you need to look and listen wrote recently in an article pray in Luke 10 as he sent them for God’s kingdom to come. so keep your eyes open. Make titled Prayer walking and the out. We pray this prayer over and Andrew and Mindy Pyman with their young son Gideon met Josua, a Leipzig University student while they were prayer walking in the city earlier this year. The national director of 24-7 notes at the end of your walking salvation strategy for your over, and find God answers us Prayer in Great Britain Brian about what you see, hear, smell city (www.24-7prayer.com/ by raising up new workers for Heasley refers to the physical act and the impressions God’s Spirit features/2490). the different areas and people prayer walk an area of the city of walking an area as a prophetic gives as you walk. It’s not a For readers unsure what groups we are praying for,” I had heard was a very needy gesture in preparation of a highly recognised activity that that type of prayer might Andrew said. neighbourhood. However on the spiritual reality. brings public recognition and look like Vice-President During their recent time in tram I met Josua, a Christian “Possessing the land can praise within some parts of the of Global Strategies and e3 Germany, Andrew and Mindy Uni student who was interested sound almost colonial and a Christian community, but it is Partners Ministry Dr. Curtis met a young man who was an in what I was doing. Unknown little arrogant. But it’s not about significant in learning about Sergeant suggests a helpful answer to this prayer. to Josua, we had prayed the day my land or our land – it’s God’s the area where you want to see prayer acrostic for praying for “I jumped onto a tram in prior to meeting him for ‘workers land, God’s earth. We are just his God’s kingdom come. Many of God’s blessing with people: Leipzig, East Germany to go for the harvest’ of Leipzig Uni. news 9

JULY 2015 Photo: Jeremy Chan

Andrew and Mindy Pyman with their young son Gideon met Josua, a Leipzig University student while they were prayer walking in the city earlier this year.

Unknown to me, Josua had been his classmates and for God to Today, Josua is continuing commanded his disciples to to start a new ministry or asking God to help him in his give Josua more boldness to to pray for the lost regularly pray back in Luke 10...for more continue a strong foundation struggles of unbelief after starting share the gospel with his fellow with others in Leipzig and he workers for a harvest which is of an ongoing engagement to study Physics at Leipzig Uni Uni students.” is starting to share the gospel plentiful!” Andrew said. with a local community in any with a class of atheists. We were “A few days later, Josua joined with others at his University, Praying for God’s kingdom to location in the world. It is not both answers to each other’s us to prayer walk the original something he never did before he come and for workers to engage merely a way to bring change prayers!” Andrew said. neighbourhood I was intending met Andrew and Mindy. in the harvest is part of the on- in a community, but also in “Josua and I spent the to prayer walk the day I met him “It’s amazing how God keeps going task of the church. Prayer those who dare to pray as afternoon praying for the Uni, on the tram.” answering the prayer Jesus once walking is a very practical step they walk. 10 news

JULY 2015 Nepal battling child traffickers

Jill Birt

Child traffickers are blatantly targeting the chaos of Nepal’s broken cities following the major earthquakes that shattered the Himalayan nation on 25 April and 11 May.

Followers of Jesus in Nepal who the next few weeks and many are already overwhelmed with areas do not yet have temporary disaster relief work are pleading shelters for thousands of families. for Christians to pray to stop TEAR Australia, alongside child traffickers taking advantage International Nepal Fellowship

of vulnerable situations to lure and their partners are working Lindsay Phil Photo: children into slavery. in the Gorkhar region, Tents on a football pitch in Kathmandu provide emergency shelter for people whose homes were destroyed in Traffickers are drawn to natural co‑ordinating training for the 25 April earthquake in Nepal. disasters because they know village teams to build temporary children are separated from their dwellings. They have distributed Perth Phil Lindsay spent two going to take a very long time for kg of rice, almost 6,000 kg of dahl parents and wander the streets more than 30 water filters to weeks in Nepal in May. the Nepalese people to recover and 900 sheets of corrugated iron. along with thousands of other communities where safe drinking “I was so pleased to see how our from these earthquakes,” Phil said There is a national shortage of people who are suddenly homeless. water is a major problem. partners are working so strategically on his return to Perth. corrugated iron which is inhibiting Law enforcement, military and Development Effectiveness and well together to help meet the So far the team in Gorkhar the process of building temporary childcare workers, who would Officer with TEAR Australia, needs of the Nepalese people. It is has distributed more than 6,000 shelters for village people. normally pursue traffickers are totally focused on disaster relief. Child trafficking has long been reported as a big problem in Nepal. Bhuvan Devlkota is president Helping HIV affected children in China of New Light Nepal, an anti- trafficking ministry based in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. Jill Birt “Traffickers are becoming even more active and are trafficking people by offering help,” Bhuvan Inglewood Community Church’s Melinda Edwards Devkota said. recently returned from a short-term ministry trip Diana Scimone, president of to China where she volunteered at a rehabilitation the US-based Born2Fly Project to stop child trafficking is partnering centre called Elimkids. The organisation provides with New Light Nepal. HIV affected children with love, care and hope “When a disaster occurs, through family, medication and education. child traffickers can operate right in broad daylight and most people won’t even know they’re With a strong sense of call from fun activities for the children while

there. Traffickers even disguise God to make the visit, Melinda had she was there. Photo: Melinda Edwards themselves as aid workers and to face some personal ‘giants’ as Melinda acknowledged she Melinda Edwards plays ‘dress-ups’ with children from Elimkids on a claim they’re ‘rescuing’ children. she prepared to go, including her didn’t give as much attention to recent visit to China. In the midst of a disaster, who is fear of vaccinations. preparing spiritually for the visit. going to stop them and ask for “I distinctly remember saying “During my time in China and pray. There were times when in her cultural understanding and credentials?,” Diana said. in my head as I entered the doctor’s there were times when I the Holy Spirit buoyed me and I accepting how things are done. On-going relief work continues surgery, ‘I will be obedient and take experienced spiritual conflict. knew, there were people praying,” “The uneasiness I felt when across the nation. Basic needs of a step toward this call. I can do this I underestimated the spiritual Melinda said. I returned was a challenge. I am food, sanitation and shelter remain with your help, God’,” Melinda said. opposition I was to experience There were many lessons becoming more mindful of how at the top of the list in cities and Preparation for the trip and I was very thankful for for Melinda including learning I live and serve God in my every villages. The monsoon rains are included extra work to financially those quiet moments between to be comfortable with day. It took a visit to China to due to bring a daily deluge within support Elimkids and fund special, activities where I could focus ‘uncomfortableness’ as she grew prompt this,” Melinda said. international briefs

Ramadan Prayer The 30-days Prayer for the from their homes in a matter of music’s greatest purpose may name, but they are learning a The Muslim month of fasting, Muslim World began in 1992 days, fleeing a marked upsurge be to connect people, not only trade like shoe and clothing Ramadan, runs from 18 June when a group of Christian in attacks by rebel coalitions and with one another but also manufacturing – marketable to 17 July 2015. During this leaders were praying about the government-controlled militias. with God, building bridges skills for earning money and season, millions of Muslim Islamic world during a meeting Many key players did not attend between heaven and earth. The serving others, whether in the people around the world will not in the Middle East. a peace signing ceremony in conference will explore the garbage slums or elsewhere. eat or drink between sunrise Bamako in mid-May with the roles and functions of ‘heart Many of the staff of Stephen’s and sunset for 30 days as a Mali trouble government, militias, Islamist music’, provide opportunities Children were once kids in spiritual discipline, and in hope News reports a spike in groups and Tuargeg rebels. for friendship and collaboration the ministry. Seven of the 21 of hearing from God. Many violence towards civilians across the globe and use Egyptian Christians killed by Christians focus their prayers and humanitarian workers in Global Worship resources, strategies and models ISIS in Libya in February 2015 for Muslims during this time northern Mali, which has driven The Global Consultation on from various contexts for were involved with Mama asking God to reveal himself the number of people displaced Music and Missions is planned God’s Kingdom. Maggie’s ministry. through dreams and visions in the country above 100,000. for July in Thailand where to Muslim people. Ramadan is Many of these people urgently attendees will explore how Mama Maggie an opportunity for Christians need food, water and shelter as God is drawing the nations Egyptian Mama Maggie started to make friends with Muslim time runs out before monsoon to Himself through music Stephen’s Children, a ministry neighbours and learn about season begins. The situation is and related arts. Musicians to help children in the garbage their culture and beliefs. Prayer worst in the northern Timbuktu without borders reports slums of neglected areas of resources are available at region, where an estimated that war divides and music Cairo. Some of these children www.30days.com.au. 23,000 people have been driven connects. They suggest that have never been called by their news 11

JULY 2015 Headed Beeck from Mozambique

Jill Birt

The Beeck family returns from their first term working with Global Interaction in Mozambique in mid‑July.

Departing Perth in April 2012, Cam and Kath Beeck and their children Jack, Tilly and Sydney have immersed themselves in the community and culture of the Yao people living in Lichinga in northern Mozambique.

Being away from loved ones has been by far the most difficult thing about being in Mozambique. Photo: Kath Beeck Kath Photo: Cam and Kath Beeck and their children Jack, Tilly and Sydney will be in Perth from July 2015 to re-connect with family and friends after more than Cam and Kath have spent three years in Mozambique. a significant amount of time learning Portuguese, the language teammates they work with who study. The family’s financial of the civil administration of are like family to them. support team has dwindled to 75 Mozambique, and Chiyao, the “I think we might also miss the percent over the past three years so Islamic inroads language of the Yao people. limited choices. We’ve become they will need to increase it to 100 “We both speak Portuguese quite used to only being able to percent before returning to Africa. well enough now to do everything get hold of certain things. I’m a bit When the Beecks return to we need to around town, worried that we’re going to be a bit Mozambique in early 2016, they including important official overwhelmed with choices of food will move to Massangulo, about business. We can also have some and activities!” Kath said. 90km from Lichinga, where pretty deep conversations about Spending time with their Portuguese is not spoken and spiritual and cultural issues. Our family and friends in Australia will fine‑tuning their use of Chiyao Chiyao is not quite as advanced be a high priority for the Beecks. will be a top priority. yet but we’ve made a really good “Being away from loved start on it,” Kath said. ones has been by far the most More information is available Preparing to leave difficult thing about being in at beeckbrief.wordpress.com. Mozambique brings some similar Mozambique,” Kath said. Bookings for appointments with challenges they experienced During their time in Australia, the Beecks can be organised by when they departed from Perth the Beecks plan to do some phoning Pam Gallagher at Global more than three years ago. training with Global Interaction in Interaction’s office in Perth on They’re leaving close friends and Melbourne as well as some further 6313 6300. Photo: Jill Birt Muslims are finding peace and hope in Jesus.

Jill Birt Some ex-Muslims became atheists. But some, often through dreams and God’s Missionaries to Word discover a God who the Islamic world loves them. say more Muslims In Sweden, Pastor Fourad Rasho of Angered Alliance have converted to Church, himself an immigrant Christianity in the last from Syria, has baptized more 14 years, since 9/11, than 100 ex‑Muslims. than in the entire 14 A British college student from a Muslim Pakistani centuries of Islamic family, Imran, is investigating history. Christianity. “Every week I meet one or CBN News reports that ‘the more persons who come to me terrible deeds of ISIS, done and want to know more about in the name of Allah and Christianity and the Bible following the violent example because they are very angry of Muhammed, have horrified about being a Muslim. They Muslims who are now don’t want to continue to be questioning their faith’. Muslim,” Imran said. 12 news

JULY 2015 The power of slacktivism

Shane Bennett

I love to help people take baby steps. You know, like moving from “I truly detest foreigners” to “I’m not terribly fond of foreigners.” That’s a win! Granted, it’s a small step in a journey like the one from here to Saturn, but it’s a step.

I think that’s why I’m a fan of Sometimes that step is as “slacktivism.” You’ve heard of simple as liking a status, nodding it, eh? It’s a made-up word, and thinking, “Yes, this is the combining “slacker,” a person kind of thing I’m into.” who avoids work or effort, and “activism,” vigorous campaigning 3. Big nets catch more fish. to bring about political or social While the work of clicking change. I love Wikipedia’s take “like” on a Facebook post will not on slacktivism: change the world, it does help “The word is usually spread the word. As awareness considered a pejorative term that spreads, the likelihood of describes ‘feel-good’ measures, connecting with someone who in support of an issue or social is ready to take action increases. cause, that have little or no As Caitlin Dewey, writing for the practical effect other than to Washington Post, says, make the person doing it take “Despite the oft-repeated satisfaction from the feeling they claim that awareness have contributed.” does nothing, it almost So you click, like, share, or always does something - retweet, but you don’t really do something small, perhaps, anything. Or at least so it seems. but something measurable.”

Three reasons to give this a try Four things to do I would like to see us, those So how can we put this who carry a torch for the nations, into action? provide a gazillion opportunities for the people in our networks 1. Offer easy ways to respond. to like, share, and retweet. Commenting on the 2014 Here’s why: Cone Communications Digital Many people questioned the actual effectiveness of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, but Shane Bennett Activism Study, Alexis Petru says, demonstrates what slacktivism is and how it can have a big impact. 1. It works. “Organisations should still Consider the biggest continue to offer individuals more a fun and kindly counterpoint to mystery, God invites us to join What about in your church? slacktivist campaign so far, the passive online actions, including a sober season. him in shaping the future. As we Your organisation? How can you ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Despite ‘liking’ and ‘sharing’ content, but “It used peer pressure, (mild) ask people to retweet and share provide “right now” response the stunning observations that they should also suggest more humiliation and guilt. By tagging and like, to give and send and go, mechanisms that will not everyone donated, that the action-oriented activities like you in the post the challenge calls we can also offer the immediate potentially lead slactivists to campaign wasted clean water so giving feedback and committing you out in front of your friends. response of prayer. Watch a video greater involvement? much of the world desperately to change their behavior. The You can ignore it but then you’ll and pray. “Like” an Instagram Shane Bennett is the needs, and that money spent on survey data demonstrates that look bad. So you’re peer pressured picture and pray. Retweet word of Practical Mobilization columnist ice and such might have been most Americans want to do more and guilted into participating. a humanitarian crisis, pray and for Missions Catalyst. given to ALS research instead, to help their favorite causes, Cone Some people would prefer to call invite all your buds to pray as well. and you’ll find this equally Communications said, but they this social proof. The growing Syrian Circle is This article has been stunning point. You probably need organisations to channel “It was authentic. This is the a brilliant example of this. re‑printed with permission already know that donations this desire-to-help into specific one that would be the hardest to It mobilised thousands of people of the author. It was first to ALS research rose from the actions that make an impact.” replicate. The ice bucket challenge to pray for Syrians during the past published on 15 January typical US$3 million average to just felt authentic and not like it month. Check it out for ideas and 2015 on the Missions over $100 million! I don’t know 2. Encourage creative was cooked up in the back room of further prayer. Catalyst website. about you, but I can come up engagement. an office or that it had been focus with a plan or two that would Elsewhere, Jacqueline Herrera grouped. I mean that’s because benefit from a 3000% increase adds that far more important it wasn’t but still, you get the in funding! than a simple ‘like’ is inspiring point. It was simple enough that Ministry Vacancy: individuals to upload their own anyone could have thought of it 2. Baby steps (can) lead to photos, thoughts and shares or started it and that’s something Pastor up to full time bigger steps. on social media in order to that people liked. They were on an To be honest, this point is emotionally connect with others, equal playing field and not being Ballajura Baptist Church debatable. A frequently cited thereby creating engagement directed by an organisation.” study on slacktivism questions and organic word-of-mouth in a Located 13 km from Perth’s CBD and based in Malaga in Perth’s Northern suburbs, Ballajura Baptist Church is a small and vibrant whether or not clicking, liking, domino effect. 4. Don’t forget about the most Christian community ministering to Ballajura and surrounding suburbs. and sharing actually lead to powerful response, prayer. donating and volunteering. 3. Learn from those who’ve seen One final thought. As followers We are seeking a Theologically quali ed/trained person to take on the role as Senior Pastor of our Church, encouraging growth through our I know my own journey toward of Jesus we have the opportunity it work. various ministries. commitment to the world looked As you think about how to to converse with the one who’s more like tiptoeing into the activate your slacktivists, keep running the universe about how If your desire is for ministry including evangelism, mission, leadership development and worship we would welcome your interest. pool than cannon-balling into in mind some of the key points things are going. On the one the deep end, but some people which Clicktivist.org says hand, C.S. Lewis reminds us, “It will take the plunge. I certainly made the Ice Bucket Challenge is much easier to pray for a bore : want to pitch opportunities for go crazy: than to go visit him.” So prayer For further information and a fact sheet, please contact people to move to Karachi, but “The timing was right: is slacktivism, but then Oswald Paul Mewhor - M ob: 0414 549 508 Email [email protected] I also want to help thousands It landed as a piece of good Chambers asserts, “Prayer does of people take their next step, news in the midst of a summer not fit us for the greater work; Ballajura Baptist Church | 7 Townsend Street Malaga WA 6090 however small, toward blessing of depressing global and prayer is the greater work.” the nations. domestic events. It provided Somehow, in kindness and leadership 13

JULY 2015 Cultivating creativity in times of crisis

John C Maxwell

Like everyone I know, I was horrified to learn of the tragic devastation that occurred in Nepal and the surrounding region when an earthquake struck. I lived in California for many years, where earthquakes were a fact of life. But I never experienced anything like the quake that hit that region last week. The destruction and loss of life are heartbreaking.

I won’t attempt to give advice time with creatives. Let their to the people affected by the way of thinking challenge and tragedy. What they most need influence yours. from us is prayer and relief efforts. But one thing I do 2. Look for the obvious. know is that they will need to When problem-solving, be creative in overcoming the many of us make the mistake of difficulties they are now faced looking only for the ‘big’ solution. with. And we can all benefit from Creativity means exploring all learning more about that topic. ideas, even the obvious and On that note, I’d like to talk a little seemingly insignificant ones. about creativity. Often the simplest solution is the To face the greatest challenges best solution. of life, we need to cultivate creative thinking. In times of 3. Be unreasonable. crisis, you need to tap into every Logic and creativity can work good idea you have. And of together quite well, but sometimes course, the best time to increase rational thinking gets in the way how difficult it might seem to opportunity is the word you use to My prayer is that people who your creativity is before the of being creative. Be willing to implement or how much change it describe it. Whenever you face a have spent years cultivating crisis occurs. This can be done look at unreasonable ideas. Often may require. problem, take a step back and ask creativity are already at work in by establishing the discipline of they expand your thinking and how it could be described as an Nepal – and the Middle East, and creative thinking. lead to breakthroughs that you 5. Dare to be different. opportunity – to innovate, build, around the world – to serve people might otherwise miss. Being creative means standing and improve. and bring solutions to hurting Here are a few ways we can outside of the norm. You must The discipline of creative nations. May we find creative do that: 4. Practice mental agility. cultivate a willingness to challenge thinking will change you – and ways to offer relief, and keep them Creativity requires flexibility. every rule and assumption. for the better. As jurist Oliver in our prayers. 1. Spend time with Rigid, bureaucratic thinking is in Wendell Holmes said, “The mind, creative people. direct opposition to innovation 6. See problems as opportunities. once expanded to the dimensions Used with permission from Make a habit, both inside and creativity. So make a habit of Sometimes the only difference of larger ideas, never returns to The John Maxwell Company, and outside of work, of spending considering every idea, no matter between a problem and an its original size.” www.johnmaxwell.com

An effective school holiday ministry

these themes in a natural way. in school newsletters; and can be heroes. We’ll talk about Volunteers are encouraged to brochures handed out at schools, bullying, caring for each other How does a church best run a school holiday dress up to support the theme. libraries and other locations in and supporting people who are program for children? Rob and Robyn Douglas This helps them lose their the area. By building a database different to us. of Maida Vale Baptist Church have many years self‑consciousness and have we are able to maintain regular Make sure all your Church fun with the program, and the contact with families throughout Safe issues are in place. of experience in this field and share some of kids love it. the year and can follow up with Volunteers all require police their knowledge. We go to a lot of trouble to targeted promotion closer to clearance and Working with decorate the building around the the event. Children’s Checks. Conduct theme. Create an atmosphere that It is important volunteers a risk assessment prior to The annual holiday ministry, engaged with them and they is fun, exciting, creates memories have the opportunity to use their the event. “Fun Factory” is in its sixth year have experienced a positive and inspires the imagination. talents. While some people are Make sure there is something and will be held from 6 to 10 Christian environment. The five senses are used good at working with children, happening in the Church to invite July and over 100 children are Each year there is a different to help children engage and there are others who work best in attendees to after the holiday expected to attend. theme. We have maintained remember their time at the Fun the kitchen; some are responsible activity. We run Messy Church, a We have one name, Fun consistency with the name and Factory. Stimulating senses helps for administration; or just love program for the whole family on a Factory. It’s not a holiday club the logo, but use exciting new to maintain great memories to clean up the mess afterwards. Saturday night once a month and or kids club. We are meeting a artwork each year to promote it. that are part of their learning The more volunteers you have we tell the children about it. This new generation of children and This year the theme is Heroes, experience. This includes a the easier the workload is information, along with other putting a new spin on a program but in previous years we have choice of craft they can take for everyone. information about the church is that engages the children in a had themes such as Circus, home and keep, music, food, As well as Bible stories and provided in take‑home bags. fun environment. The highest Monkey Business, Aussie games and stories. themes, we support our children commendation a child can give Outback, Treasure Island, Advertising includes emails to be good citizens. For example, For more information on is that it was fun, and when they Space, and Around the World. and personal letters to previous this year we will have Constable Maida Vale’s Fun Factory, say that, you know you have Bible stories are woven into attendees; street banners; notices Care come to talk about how we visit www.mvbc.org.au. 14 news

JULY 2015 Room for colour and noise

which to position itself. I think I agree with him. When you stop to listen to a CD on a good sound system, it is amazing. A good sound system will make you stop, and say “wow”...

Music has become a background soundtrack to other activities. It’s just not important anymore.

Everything in our lives is geared towards less downtime, higher productivity, staying in contact, being available 24 hours a day. A new gadget comes out every week promising to make you more productive or efficient. We are slowly compressing our lives into a lossy format where we cut space and silence out of our lives. James Bryant In John 10:10 Jesus says just maybe, it’s the sound that’s files called “lossless”(i.e. nothing “My purpose is to give them turning you off.” is lost in the codec). [his sheep] a rich and satisfying I read a blog post the other day from a person who You see songs that are saved The “audiophile” surmises life.”(NLT) He doesn’t offer a has a stereo system in his house worth $58,000. as mp3 files have gone through that people are not buying loud, compressed or efficient Moreover, it is comprised of second-hand equipment. a process called “compression”. it because it actually sounds life but a life that has colour, Compression means that up rubbish if you really listen to it. has not been compressed into The “audiophile” blows me away with the investment to 90% of the original recorded It sounds rubbish not because of lossy format. He offers a life that he has made to listen to quality music. sound has been removed. The what is in the music, but because allows us to stop and really listen logic behind this technique is, the of what is not in the music. to not only the obvious noise but missing information isn’t audible, Even if we can’t hear what is what is not always heard; a life His blog post addressed the issue have apparently stopped people so let’s get rid of it. Someone technically not there, I think it that when we pause and hear the of falling music sales. He writes: from really listening. Music has figures if you don’t know what makes a difference. I think we do music we say “wow”. Perhaps I “I’ll close with a theory of become a background soundtrack you’re missing then you will notice. Somewhere in our heads, need to start living my life in a mine - crappy sounding music to other activities. It’s just not never know the difference. These we tune out a little because of it. lossless codec, or leaving more is killing the music business. important anymore. So if the files are called “lossy file formats”. The colour and noise left in the empty space for colour and noise Mp3s are subversive because they music isn’t moving you, maybe, These files differ from the large music doesn’t have any space on to rest in?

Leadership star jets in

James Bryant At lead:different Hank will address a number of key topics Riverview Church will play host to internationally including, building teams that renowned speaker Hank Fortener as part of the won’t let each other fail; three laws lead:different conference in July. of performance and how to break through barriers; and Hunters, Gatherers and Foragers – how to Hank hails from MOSAIC, a multi- LA’s reputation as a creative identify and empower each group. site church based in Los Angeles, community full of artists and Hank said he was looking California and will speak at activists dedicated to healing the forward to making the trip to Perth lead:different on Saturday 18 July world. Millions of people around and to share on the important topic from 9.30am to 1pm. the world listen to Hank speak via of leadership. “I am so excited to Hank is an globally podcasts each month. come to Perth! Looking forward recognised speaker in the areas As the teaching pastor of to spending time with so many of of creativity, brand, culture, team Los Angeles’ thriving MOSAIC you at lead:different. Thank you for building and driving bottom Church alongside Erwin inviting me into your conversation line performance. He recently McManus, Hank also divides his about leadership!” spoke at the world renowned TED days between consulting to global

conference in May. brands and leaders, and driving a For more information and to book Photo: Hank Fortener Hank has been an integral worldwide push to help orphaned your tickets, visit www.31media. Hank Fortener will share his insights on leadership and creativity at the part of shaping MOSAIC children find a home. net/leaddifferent/hank lead:different event in July. intermission 15

JULY 2015

A minute with ... read

The Reason – Lacey Sturm Growing up loving Flyleaf and Lacey Sturm being one of my favorite female vocalist, this book brought much revelation to her thought provoking lyrics I had immersed myself in as a teenager. I felt a deep connection to her story as I had grown up listening to her songs often about hardship, but always filled with hope. Lacey has written an incredibly inspiring biography recounting her deep depression all through childhood, her close encounter with suicide and the light of Jesus’ saving power that completely transformed her. She also covers her time in the band, her marriage and being a mother. For any Flyleaf fans it’s a must read and also an excellent resource to gift those in your life with depression and anxiety. This book is absolute proof that there is a God who cares. Photo: Jill Birt Heart of a Lioness – Irene Gleeson Chuck Barrett came to WA from the The Heart of a Lioness will captivate and challenge you. USA several years ago and is a pastor at At thirty‑seven, Irene Gleeson was a broken woman. Her marriage Harmony Baptist Church. had crumbled, her children were out of control and she had spiralled into a deep depression. Her life changed when she walked into Where is the church located? a small beachside church and encountered God. Many of us feel Harmony Baptist Church meets at 34 Fairlight Street in stirred by God to do something radical for Him, but Irene acted on Mosman Park. the compulsion and lived it. She used her negative experiences as stepping stones to a future that was used powerfully by God. What time are services held? An exciting and compelling read for everyone. Our services are 9am Sundays and 7pm Wednesdays.

How and when did the church start? Cottesloe Beach Baptist Church began in 1914, when a small group gathered with a burden for the spiritual wellbeing of the community. Sunday School started almost immediately, and in 1915 funds were raised to buy the stand (three lots) for the church at a price of $250. One Uncommon Woman – Dulcie Lampard Who makes up the ministry team? Dulcie Lampard has written not only her mother’s biography, but a Our ministry team consists of Alan Wright, Alicia Barrett, moving testimonial to the love which can exist between mother and Chuck Barrett, Cliff Wright, Darren Smith and Mike Brown. daughter. Dulcie tells her mother’s story with a welcome objectivity and a keen eye for the rich canvas of everyday life. Set in Western What is a feature of your church or ministry you’d like Australia (WA), the biography traverses almost a century of history to share? and most of the WA countryside. We read of two World Wars and how This year our church will be celebrating the centenary of they affected the Hill family; the wider WA society; the 1983 flooding Baptist outreach in Mosman Park! of Gogo Station; the falling to earth of Skylab; and the plight of Lindy The church has been known by several names over this Chamberlain, to mention only a few events recounted by Dulcie in century. It was started as Cottesloe Beach Baptist from 1915 to her telling of her mother’s story. This is a work to rival AB Farcey’s 1926. In 1926, the name was changed to Buckland Hill Baptist ‘A Fortunate Life’. and held that name until 1935. It was then changed to Mosman Park Baptist and held variations of that name until last year when we voted to become a church plant under BCWA and we chose a name which is not only a descriptor, but also a goal for us to help guide us along our journey of faith together. Reviews by Koorong Mount Lawley Assistant Manager Dorothy Waddingham.

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JULY 2015 Curry and Christ

Drafted in 2009, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry immediately began to make an impact on the court with his accurate shooting and off it with a passionate desire to share his faith in Jesus Christ.

The Golden State Warriors have just capped off a remarkable season to win this years’ NBA Championship over the LeBron James lead Cleveland Cavaliers, with Curry playing a major role in the series. Curry was also recently crowned the 2014-15 NBA Most Valuable Player and shared his Christian faith story in the pages of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ (FCA) magazine.

Stephen Curry

My dad may have been playing in the NBA at the time, but the best basketball games I remember from my childhood were the ones between my little brother, Seth, and I on our backyard basketball court in Charlotte, N.C. We’d play for hours and hours, oftentimes well into the night with the use of a bright stage light shining on the court, until our mom would yell out the window for us to come in. Those games would get pretty heated, but that was the norm for brothers as close as we were. Our whole family was very close in fact, even when it came to school. My mom started a Christian Montessori school when I was in first grade, so we all went there together. Mom was in charge as the head mistress, our aunt was our teacher, and our grandmother was the cook. My brother, sister and I were blessed to have such

great influences in our lives, and Photo: Keith Allison I can honestly say that my mom “The Holy Spirit is moving through our locker room” says NBA MVP Stephen Curry. and dad were the best. They raised us to believe in God, and we were Wanting to follow in my dad’s experience taught me about be sitting in the green room with God’s given me talents at church every Wednesday for footsteps on the hardwood, I patience and seeking God’s will, my family hearing my name called to play basketball for a living, youth Bible studies and every had my sights set on Virginia because He had a plan all along. as the seventh overall pick of the but I still have to work hard to Sunday for services. Tech during my high school I couldn’t see it at the time, but I NBA Draft. improve every day. I know that I remember it like it was years. Unfortunately, the Hokies trusted He knew what was best Fast-forward to now and my in the grand scheme of things, yesterday, the day I gave my and other ACC schools weren’t for me. faith continues to be my driving this is just a game that can be life to Christ. I was in fourth interested. I was confident the During our Cinderella run force, God’s blessed me with taken from me at any moment. grade, and I recall hearing and Lord had blessed me with the to the 2008 Elite Eight, I knew an awesome support system in But I love that basketball gives understanding the gospel of Jesus talent to play the game, and I just the Lord was preparing me for Oakland. We also have about 10 me the opportunities to do Christ and walking down the aisle wanted to go where He wanted a bigger stage to represent and guys on our team who attend our good things for people and to to give my life to Him. My parents me to be. That place became as be a witness for Him on the pregame chapels and pray together. point them towards the Man continued to pour into my faith clear as day to me once I met Bob basketball court. I remembered The Holy Spirit is moving who died for our sins on the from that point on, making sure McKillop, Davidson’s head coach. my mom telling me from day one through our locker room in a way cross. I know I have a place in I understood the commitment He explained his vision for my at Davidson that God puts His I’ve never experienced before. It’s heaven waiting for me because I’d just made. Starting in middle career at Davidson and how he people in different areas of life so allowing us to reach a lot of people, of Him, and that’s something school I attended Charlotte could help me achieve my goals. that they can reach more people and personally I am just trying to no earthly prize or trophy could Christian School, which allowed Plus, he was a man of God, so it for Him. I tried to use that time for use this stage to share how God ever top. me to hear the gospel on a daily was an added bonus to play for a His glory. has been a blessing to my life There’s more to me than basis. Looking back, my childhood leader who was grounded in faith. Then, in 2009, it was a surreal and how He can be the same in just this jersey I wear, and that’s was filled with the Lord’s presence. The entire recruiting and signing moment and a dream realised to everyone else’s. Christ living inside of me.