London’s burning, again . . . Our presidents react . . .

s I write this short message, it seems that I am a world away from the events that have unfolded across London and spread to the West Midlands, for I am currently serving as a padre to the teens at the ANEC camp in Aberdaron, North Wales. Standing at the summit of Anelog, surrounded by the natural grandeur of God’s creation, a tremendous peace came over me which is far removed from the seemingly collective madness of the rioters – so difficult to comprehend or understand, even in light of the tragic shooting of Mr Duggan. I am sure that many of our members who are living among the violence and uncertainty of their communities would wish an opportunity to escape to a place of safe retreat and peace like this. This may be practically impossible; however, times like these afford us an opportunity to find our retreat in God and in the peace that he offers. It was David who sang (Psalm 27:1, 4, 5, NIV), ‘The LORD is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid? One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.’ While we live in uncertain times, we must be encouraged by the fact that God is ever loving and dependable, and will forever be our Refuge of safety and peace. God forbid that we lose our homes, businesses, communities or even our lives. So I encourage you as David sang (Psalm 27:13, 14, NIV): ‘I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.’ PASTOR IAN SWEENEY, BUC PRESIDENT

he shooting of Mark Duggan by police, and the peaceful protest that followed to find out answers to the question of why, transmuted into violence on the streets of Tottenham and beyond. The volatility of this Tfluid situation has filled the airwaves and TV screens with reaction and reflection in this 24-hour-news-driven generation. The Church is not immune to all that has ensued as members live, work and worship in the areas that have been affected. To this end, Pastor Sam Davis, president of the SEC, released this statement: ‘We are saddened by the events that have occurred in Tottenham and elsewhere. The loss of Mark Duggan’s life has mobilised many in the community to rightly ask for answers to what caused this young man’s tragic death. However, this can never justify the wanton violence and destruction of property, looting, and vandalism that followed the protest. Our members are part of the community, and as such are entitled to enjoy the freedoms of society that we all have come to love and enjoy here in Britain. Freedom of movement, freedom of speech, and protection of life and property. Sadly, on Saturday night, 6 August, those who were protesting crossed the line of what we all expect from an orderly society, and took away the rights and privileges of many other peace-loving people. This can never be acceptable.’ As a Church we are encouraging our members as they gather for prayer meetings, in small groups, in individual worship and Sabbath services, to make peace in our society a point of prayer. We pray as a Church that peace will reign in the hearts and minds of all those who are troubled today, and that through our actions we can show the world the Prince of Peace in a time when many are troubled and in fear. DR RICHARD DE LISSER, SEC COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR

©Rex Features 2 3 champions in the Gospel and Spiritual cate- Musical Eisteddfod Festival. gories. This inspired them to join more choral Highlights of the competition can be seen awards competitions, not just to win medals and tro- on the Llangollen TV website at: editorial phies, but to raise the profile of the Adventist http://llangollen.tv/en/clip/adventist-university- Church in the music community – which they of-the-philippines-ambassadors/ Adventists win ‘Choir of certainly did at the LLangollen International http://www.ted-adventist.org. the World’ trophy Early in life I learnt that my school’s play- A choir from the Adventist University of the ground was dominated by a very simple, but Philippines (the AUP Ambassadors) recently primeval, rule: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth won three top awards at the 2011 Llangollen for a tooth’. If you kicked someone’s shins International Musical Eisteddfod Festival in Julian Hibbert during a football match – either by accident or Editor Wales. After gaining first place in both Mixed Beyond the Edesign – you ran a better-than-even risk that Choir and Chamber Choir categories, they yours would suffer a similar fate! also went on to win the coveted Pavarotti Things seemed better when I got to uni. ‘Choir of the World Trophy’ on the Saturday We read philosophy, history and religion; we night. grappled with the deep and delicate themes of The Llangollen Eisteddfod, with Terry Waite English literature; and we waited impatiently letter CBE as its president, is among the world’s for our chance to ‘make a difference’ – most prestigious choral competitions. somewhere, anywhere. But despite all our After winning the first two categories, and sophistication, we too easily reverted to that Despite the fact that she had been granted the right to retribution under Islamic law, and that therefore gaining entry to the final, the old playground adage, ‘an eye for an eye, and her attacker was already in Tehran’s judiciary hospital to be blinded with acid – she pardoned Adventist competitors were clear that they a tooth for a tooth’, when provoked. him at the last minute! would not compete during the Sabbath hours. When I took up my career in ministry, I The Guardian reported her comments as follows: They were delighted, however, when the soon realised that a few of my parishioners ‘I feel very good. I’m happy that I pardoned him, . . . For seven years I’ve been trying to organisers moved the competition to 9.30pm, lived firmly under the Old Covenant, and pursue retribution and to prove that the punishment for an acid attack is retribution, but today I after sunset, so the Ambassadors could take adhered strictly to the dictates of Exodus decided to pardon him . . .’3 part! 21:23-25 (NIV): ‘But if there is serious injury, The AUP Ambassadors are the official you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth Living beyond the letter choir of the Adventist University of the for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn Technically Ameneh Bahrami had the ‘letter of the [Islamic] law’ on her side, and retribution was Philippines. In 2006, they joined the World for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.’ her legal right.4 She chose, however, to live beyond the letter of the law. Choir Games in China and came home as They seemed unaware of Christ’s urgings in Her decision was bold and courageous – living beyond the letter of the law always is! Matthew 5 that we love our enemies and Jesus was our Pioneer in taking religion beyond the ‘letter of the law’. One example of this is those who ‘despitefully use us’. They just his treatment of the ‘fallen’ woman in the Temple: Additional symptoms may include nausea, bloating, vomiting, weight- couldn’t douse their smouldering anger. ‘The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They loss or fever. These symptoms could be indicative of a range of made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the disorders, including gastrointestinal disorders, irritable bowel syndrome Retribution rules act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you or more serious problems, such as cancer. Yes, my personal experience tells me that say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. the spirit of retribution too often rules the ‘But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on by Sharon Platt-McDonald Flashes of light attitudes and actions of people. And the questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him RGN, RM, RHV, MSc Seeing bright spots, flashes of light or other visual disturbances may be pages of history tell a very similar story, be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. Health Ministries director, BUC the result of migraines. However, it could also indicate neurological or namely, that the spirit of retribution has been ‘At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only eye problems, such as retinal detachment, which require immediate a driving force behind so much of this world’s Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, medical attention. heartache. “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” Knowing your body – part 6a Just over ninety years ago, as the Great ‘“No one, sir,” she said. Persistent or high fever 5 A fever which persists for three days or more needs investigating. War was drawing to a close, the mood in ‘“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”’ Warning signs Great Britain and France was one of deep Jesus moved boldly beyond the ‘letter of the law’ into the realm of grace. He went beyond Persistent high temperatures of 103°F (39.4°C) require prompt anger. Germany had plunged these countries the human urge to condemn and punish. He went beyond the human craving for retribution. He In this issue and the next we take a look at signs which medical assessment. Very young children or the elderly can experience indicate that our health is being compromised. We examine into a tragic and unnecessary conflict that forgave. more adverse reactions to high temperatures, so quick response is cost millions of lives, and many felt that He wants to lead us beyond these things too. the body’s system for alerting us to danger, what to look crucial. out for, and when to take action. her citizens should be made to pay heavy I have highlighted seven key signs, indicated by the reparations. Shortness of breath 1 Mayo Clinic, that should not be ignored. Clemenceau, the French leader, was http://pmaci.customer.netspace.net.au/versailles.htm. Occasional breathlessness may occur with a heavy cold or vigorous 2 determined to enforce ‘a punitive peace’.1 And http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/30302.html. exercise. However, severe shortness of breath may indicate an 3 4 in the minds of some historians, the resulting The Guardian, UK newspaper. www.islamreligion.com, ‘Crime and Confusion or personality changes underlying health problem like asthma, pneumonia, or another lung Punishment in Islam (part 4 of 5): harshness of the Treaty of Versailles led Medical attention should be sought if the following ailment or heart condition. Wheezing requires prompt medical Retribution and Discretionary directly to the ghastly retribution that Nazi 5 occurs: intervention. Gasping for breath is a medical emergency. Punishments’. John 8:3-11 (NIV). • Sudden and continuous confused thoughts and Germany handed out to its European irrational thinking Unexplained changes in bowel habits neighbours just twenty-two years later! • Disorientation (confusion about time or place) Sudden changes in bowel habits could indicate a bacterial, viral or • Sudden onset of problems with concentration parasitic infection. However, more serious conditions (including cancer) Gandhi’s observation or memory could produce the following bowel changes which require investigating: The following observation, attributed to • Sudden personality or behaviour change, like • Black, tar-coloured or bloody stools Mahatma Gandhi, sums up the situation aggression. • Persistent diarrhoea or constipation succinctly: ‘An eye for an eye makes the 2 • Ongoing urge for a bowel movement. whole world blind.’ He was absolutely Any of the above could be triggered by infec- right. Humans spend too much time and tion, low blood sugar, dehydration, anaemia, Unexplained weight-loss effort planning retribution; too much time mental health conditions or even some Experiencing unintentional weight-loss could signal a health problem. in cycles of ‘tit-for-tat’; and the end result medications. Losing up to 10% of your body weight over a six-month period requires is a tragic moral blindness. investigation to rule out such conditions as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, Quite recently, however, Ameneh Bahrami Feeling full after eating very little liver disease, depression, digestive disorders or cancer. broke that tradition. She was blinded and ‘An eye for an eye makes If you always feel full even when you eat disfigured by a jilted suitor who repaid her the whole world blind.’ very little, get a medical checkup. Be vigilant! rejection with a face full of acid in 2004! ©iStockphoto/Neustockimages Mahatma Gandhi 4 the Berean column 5 at situations)? ‘Something is simply mean that Pastor Wilson wrong with X – so, Lord, just fix seems to be a ‘doer’, not simply with Andrew Puckering nurturehim up. I can’t do it.’ ‘He’s issues a ‘thinker’. Thinking is important, wrong, he’s sinful, he’s irritating, but if our leader cannot translate he’s full of himself.’ ‘I wash my this into tangible plans that hands of him – all I can do now achieve our mission and calling, Pride is pray!’ Ted Wilson’s we fail as a movement. I’ll men- Such prayers are really a tion the example of the Great Gideon was dead. This famous judge of demand session with God, not a Hope project, which is to distrib- Israel, also called Jerubbaal, had done good conversation. There is an irritant, ute 50-100 million Great for Israel, but the Israelites didn’t treat his like a thorn in the foot, and you first year – a Controversy books around the kids accordingly (Judges 8:35). To recap, just want God to remove it. world. This is a very controver- Gideon was the man whom God had used to Praying FOR someone, on the sial plan, especially in Europe save Israel from the Midianite hordes (Judges other hand, happens in a two- pastor’s review and North America. 7:1-8:13; 9:17) – hordes led by princes so fearless that sided conversation with God. No Many voices have spoken they actually ordered Gideon to kill them when captured room for a one-sided view. When against this project as a waste of (Judges 8:21)! The Israelites were so grateful, they had a mind to make him their first-ever king – and Gideon turned we list the person’s faults, God by Sam Neves* time and money. I was at a helps us to glimpse the human recent media event where the GC down the offer (Judges 8:22, 23). Now, upon Gideon’s frailties underlying those faults. This is an abbreviated version of his 28 July 2011 contribution to Spectrum. vice-president responsible for it death, Israel showed ungratefulness not only to his house- Also, the more we pray for presented the project. After that, hold, but to the LORD, by chasing after idols (Judges 8:33, others’ faults to be removed, the a group of us were discussing it 34). It’s into this tragic environment that Gideon’s son more he reminds us of our own. uch was said when first-hand how difficult it is to over lunch. There were many Abimelech enters the story in Judges 9:1. Jesus put it this way: ‘First Ted Wilson became the unite all churches in a single doubts as to whether it was a The name ‘Abimelech’ is interesting for several rea- remove the plank from your own leader of the Seventh- effort – it’s like herding cats. good idea, but for me it was clear sons – for one, it seemed to be a hereditary name of the eye, and then you will see clearly day Adventist Church. However, because my division, – I would rather have 100 million Philistine kings of Gerar (Genesis 20:1-18; 21:22-34; 26), M who were Israel’s enemies in the Promised Land (Joshua The fact that they to remove the speck that is in Many were very happy because union and conference embraced books distributed than not have were praying for your brother’s eye.’1 he made clear that his intent was it, I decided to do the same. anything distributed. Sometimes 13:1-3; Judges 13:1). Having defeated another of Israel’s traditional me felt like an He points out the selfishness to reform the Church. Others The second difficulty was the it’s better to unite in doing some- enemies, it’s unlikely that Gideon would have named his son for attack. They of our motivation. Through were sad, and worried that we terminology. I realised that every thing, even if it might not be the these! ‘Abimelech’ could also be Hebrew for ‘My father is Molech’ hadn’t spent time prayer, the Holy Spirit speaks to would slip backwards towards one of my sermons called people best action, than to just talk (a Canaanite god, infamous for being the object of child sacrifice with me, or gone us of the necessity to become fundamentalism. to deep soul-searching, and to about methods. In fact, I’m according to Leviticus 18:21; 20:2-5) – improbable in this case, to the trouble to involved with that person, and he Looking back to his first ask themselves hard questions tired of just talking and dis- although Gideon did become trapped by idol worship in Judges get to know me, plants the first stirrings of love speech, it was clear that he about hypocrisy and purpose. I cussing the best methods of 8:24-27. However, the most intriguing possibility is that the name so why were and compassion in our hearts. already knew exactly what he called it ‘discipleship’. Pastor secular evangelism – it’s time means ‘My father is Melech’ – the Hebrew for ‘King’. What a choice they praying for Could it be that this is one reason would do if he became president. Wilson called it ‘revival’, which to do something. Wilson’s name for the son of one who turned down the kingship! me? why Jesus said: ‘Love your This is simply because he has to me was the same thing. pragmatism seems to have Whatever the meaning of Abimelech’s name, he eschewed his ave you ever felt Their actions made me feel enemies and pray for those who done, so far, precisely what he I’ve always seen it as my life struck a chord within me. father’s humility, using the excuse that one man is more effective uncomfortable upon that they were judging me; that persecute you’?2 Is prayer the said he would do. One of the first purpose to take away the layers However, as you would expect than a committee, and killed all of his brothers to take the throne – hearing that someone is they thought I was ‘up to no medium through which we are things he emphasised was the of tradition that we have piled on from me, I’m not completely sure all except Jotham (Judges 9:1-6), who used a parable of trees to praying for you? I have. good’ and needed to be ‘correc - enabled to love our enemies? global cry for ‘revival and refor- the true Gospel, and to discover that his agenda is good for the show that only the most hurtful and useless of people would allow H pride to take their hearts in such a way (Judges 9:7-15). It took I have even felt insulted! ted’. Somehow, I didn’t sense Praying FOR someone mation’. In true European style, I the present truth beyond the form Church either, probably because I I spent three years of my early any concern or love coming from involves a lot more than just was very sceptical at first. My of church we have today. I call it don’t know him well enough. I three years for this message to sink in to the men of Shechem adolescence at an Adventist them. The fact that they were passing a problem to God. As we immediate reaction was that we a revolution; he called it reforma- have heard many rumours that (Abimelech’s home base), but even when they rose up against him boarding school. It was a very ‘praying for me’ felt like an engage with God in talking about would go back in time and be tion. Quite frankly, I don’t care he will stand against the ordina- Abimelech crushed them (Judges 9:22-45). Not content with that, structured environment. antagonistic act, as far as I someone, we are led to a deeper forced towards a certain form what you call it, as long as we tion of women, condemn any he burnt alive 1,000 survivors who were holding out in the city’s Everything was regulated, from was concerned! awareness; to feel that person’s of ‘being’ Adventist. However, are serious about being genuine, music that isn’t ‘sacred’ and tower – proudly going right up to its very base himself to place the the length of our school skirts to Its not that I object to people pain; to have compassion on him as I’ve followed his speeches, and living out the true Kingdom – forbid the reading of any firewood, and calling his men to follow his personal example the time the lights went out at praying for me. For example, I or her; to increasing love and sermons and meeting notes, and globally. non-Adventist material, among (Judges 9:46-49). night. never felt that my mother’s caring for that person. heard what it’s like to work with Furthermore, I truly admire other things. In his defense, how- The Bible doesn’t give Abimelech’s reason for his next move – Not only did the teachers prayers were an attack on me. him, I have now fully incorporat- how Pastor Wilson has actually ever, he hasn’t spoken against an attack on the city of Thebez (Judges 9:50) – but it does give supervise our study hours from They were never a threat. Why? They will not feel insulted ed both revival and reformation mobilised the Adventist world to the ordination issue yet (that I the result. Abimelech took the city, and tried to personally burn 7pm to 9pm, Monday to For this simple reason: I knew I believe that when we pray FOR into both of my churches. bring this discipleship and revolu- know of), and, after checking his down this tower as well, but a woman dropped a millstone on his Thursday, but every Saturday those prayers were prayed in others, instead of AT them, they This journey from resisting tion emphasis – sorry, revival doctoral thesis on Ellen White, skull. Even here, Abimelech’s pride seems to be what actually kills night they ‘supervised’ our enter- love. will not feel insulted if they find this campaign to fully promoting and reformation emphasis. We all I’m convinced he has read a wide him. He’s still healthy enough to plead with his amour-bearer to tainment too. There were different As I reflected on it years later, out, as I was when I was told it meant that I had to cross two know that it usually takes many range of non-Adventist material. finish him off, reasoning that it would be shameful to be killed by swimming days for boys and I realised that what my two someone was praying for me so major bridges. The first was that years for the General Conference In truth, I probably shouldn’t a woman (Judges 9:51-54)! girls, and unexpected searches classmates were doing was many years ago. of hierarchical resistance. In my to have any significant impact ‘in believe every rumour I hear. The Bible shows us a better way than that of Abimelech: of our suitcases for any form of praying AT me, and there is a I believe that our prayers for experience, the general pastoral the front line’. However, in less Just over a year ago, when humility gives wisdom (Proverbs 11:2), the humble will retain ‘makeup’! The list could go on. difference between praying AT others do make a difference. I culture in Europe is to ignore, than a year, local churches he was elected, I was slightly honour (Proverbs 29:23), and the LORD calls us to humble Like adolescents tend to do, someone and praying FOR believe that my mother and challenge, or completely reject around the world are taking this confused and wondered if it was ourselves before him (Exodus 10:3; 1 Kings 21:29; 2 Kings sometimes I tested the limits of someone. father’s prayers made a huge any project that comes from the reform very seriously. The possible for God to really work 22:19; 2 Chronicles 33:12, 13). Jesus himself shows that these regulations, just a bit. difference in my life. But I also local conference or union, or the process has begun, and I truly through our political system. humility is better than pride in Luke 14:7-11. We have many What of my own prayers? believe that our prayers for others General Conference. If you’re hope we continue to search for Since then I’ve been challenged reasons not to be proud. They were praying for me I started reflecting on my own will change us first, before they reading this in Africa, India or authenticity and reform. once more to trust that God • King David’s commander, Joab, remembered Abimelech’s folly Then, one day it came to my prayers – were they AT or FOR? change others. And when we South America you are probably This leads me to the second knows what he is doing. – but in what context? ears, via a third party, that two What are the underlying have changed, God can use us to perplexed at this reaction. Being a characteristic of his ministry so Hopefully, the best is yet to of my classmates were praying attitudes and thoughts involved answer our prayers for them! pastor of a church with fifty- far – pragmatism. By that I come. • Which king of Judah became a leper for his pride? (2 Chronicles 26) for me. I may have been on their in praying AT someone (or some- 1Luke 6:42, NKJV. seven nationalities has helped me prayer list, but they were not thing, because we can also pray 2Matthew 5:44, NIV. see how various cultures react to • What happened to King Nebuchadnezzar when he became friends of mine; neither were national or global campaigns. I’m *Sam Neves is the pastor of Wimbledon International Church in London, England. proud? (Daniel 4) they particularly friendly. also the co-ordinator of the • Should we take pride in our righteousness? (Luke 18) I was rather taken aback at *Elize Hibbert is a language teacher by profession, but presently works as the Media department in my local (Articles published in the Issues section represent the opinions solely of the authors, the news. In fact, I felt affronted! Editorial secretary for MESSENGER. conference, and now I’ve seen and not necessarily those of the editorial staff or the BUC.) • Which other Bible characters did God humble? 6 7 feature an AFM story What is AFM? Sadaatin* by Barnabas Hope ou may have heard this acronym used in church before. It stands for Adventist Frontier Missions, an agency that ‘seeks to ‘The 10/40 augment the ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church by ast week, I went to the hospital to visit Sadaatin, our nearly Window is a blind Bible worker. He was in for ten days, but he had such a establishing church-planting movements among people groups term coined by Y 1 where there is no Adventist presence.’ good time he wished he could have stayed longer. In a filthy Christian missionary Adventist Frontier Missions seeks to recruit missionaries who will hospital! Crowded with sick people! How is that possible? strategist Luis Bush in L take the Gospel to the millions upon millions of people who would Sadaatin says he had such a good time in the hospital because never hear it unless someone goes into their communities, lives among 1990 to refer to those he was testifying about Jesus the whole ten days! ‘I just told more them, learns their culture and language, and tells them tactfully about regions of the eastern hemisphere and more.’ On his first day there I went to visit him. It wasn’t visit- Jesus. located between 10 and 40 degrees ing hours, so he came out of the hospital and stood in his pyjamas north of the equator, a general area on the front steps. That day, by providence, before I even knew I Hostile or suspicious destinations that in 1990 was purported to have was headed to a hospital, I had put a little vial of anointing oil in my AFM recruits form a very special group of believers, who intentionally the highest level of socio-economic pocket (which I used to carry when I was a pastor in America). enter areas of the world that are generally suspicious of, or hostile challenges and the least access to the Remembering that I had the oil, I rejoiced and told Sadaatin that I towards, Christianity, in order to establish an indigenous Adventist Christian message and Christian would anoint him on the spot and pray for him. I had a small pocket presence. resources on the planet.’ New Testament, and gave it to Sadaatin, with two other Adventist It is the objective of these AFM missionaries to ‘learn the language http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/10/ books for him to give away, since he can’t read them. and culture and begin raising up a body of believers, committed to 40_window. When I returned three days later, Sadaatin introduced me to a spreading the Gospel among their people’, and the desired outcome man in a wheelchair on the front step: ‘This man saw you pray for is to establish ‘a mother church with at least one daughter church me and asked what kind of good friends I had who did this kind of and one granddaughter church. These finished projects are strong thing. He asked if he can come to our church.’ Then he told me that and growing with church members committed to and trained for their native tongue, which at you could tell that sums up the his nurse had seen the New Testament by his bed and asked if she outreach.’2 times means the missionary has rewards of your work, what could have it when he left the hospital. He told me with a great grin . . . ask Graham to develop the language into a would it be? that he had been telling people about Jesus everywhere. He gave Need for caution written form. me an order for more books to share: including more New AFM is one of those organisations about which ‘careless talk’ may Editor: To what extent do you ‘Unreached’ people are those Graham: After fifty years of Testaments! He presented his two doctors with Ben Carson’s Gifted literally ‘cost lives’, and so we will not explore the details of its on-the- personally have to find funding who have no adequate access to Editor: Do you have a special communism, Saudi Arabia flood- Hands. By the end of his ground activity within the ‘10/40 Window’, or anywhere else for that for your AFM work? the Gospel within their communi- sense of God’s guidance in ed Albania with imams in order stay he was so energised matter. ties. They mainly live in the joining AFM? to teach the Albanian people how that he had enlivened the What I can say is this: that I recently listened to a presentation Graham: All our funding is 10/40 window and are the least to be good Muslims. Dani’s* whole floor with his Gospel given by Graham and Pauline Allcock, and was deeply touched by the derived from contributions evangelised, the hardest to reach Graham: For years Pauline and I father did not like the new form telling. scope and effectiveness of the activities they described. Graham is the received from individuals and and the most populated areas of have been interested in sharing of Islam being taught by these So what was his secret AFM Euro-Asia Field director, and he agreed to the following interview churches. All AFM missionaries the world. These seventy-two the Good News about Jesus with imams and, though a well- of having a good time in a for the benefit of our MESSENGER readers. raise their own funds. We do not countries contain almost two those who have never heard of respected imam himself, he filthy hospital? His secret receive any financial support thirds of the world’s population – God as we have. During the ten informed Dani that Seventh-day is being nearly blind! He 1http://www.afmonline.org/about/index.php. from the General Conference. most of the adherents of Islam, years I worked as a pastor in the Adventists were much closer couldn’t see the blood on 2http://www.afmonline.org/about/approach.php. Part of our work involves sharing Buddhism, Hinduism, and NEC, our desire to do this inten- to them than this unfamiliar the walls, the dirt on the the need for cross-cultural Animism. sified. When we were introduced ideology being presented by floors, or the stained missions with our members and The unchurched people here to the work of AFM we experi- the Saudis. sheets. Instead he only inviting them to partner with us in the UK are within reach of the enced a growing conviction that Sadly, Dani’s father died saw what wasn’t seen in reaching the unreached. Gospel, if they are interested and God wanted us to serve in this about three years ago, but at the . . . the hearts of men and wish to pursue it, and there are way. funeral meal Dani placed our women who were needing Editor: Why do you do this approximately 31,600 Adventists We decided to put out our missionary at his right side, in something. Can you work? Wouldn’t it be a lot easier who could share it with them. own ‘Gideon’s fleece’. If the Lord the place of honour. Then, when imagine a hospital with just working as a pastor in one The primary people groups would heal Pauline of a debilitat- questioned by the attending two thousand beds, and of our UK cities? There are a lot where AFM missionaries are ing illness that had kept her imams as to who this was, he just one of them filled with of unchurched people here! serving have no access to wheelchair-bound for two and a stood before all present and a Christian? Sadaatin Gospel information or Christians. half years, we would know he announced that this was his could see that in his mind, Graham: I must admit, it would For example, in Turkey there is was calling us to join AFM. friend who had come to build a and it made ten days in be much easier to continue only one Adventist for every 1.2 Pauline was anointed in June church in the town. A few the hospital a blessed working as a pastor. However, million people, compared with 2006 and was immediately able months later he commented that experience. In fact it made when I came to understand the the UK where there is one to get up and walk. This caused our missionary was walking on it a mission. work of AFM, I realised that there Adventist for every 2,000 people. quite a stir among our neigh- God’s road and that he too Somehow I think that is actually a difference between bours when they saw her walk- wanted to walk that same road this is what Jesus saw ‘unchurched’ and ‘unreached’. At Editor: Reaching the unreached ing down our street, as opposed and join the church. That’s when when he came to AFM we make a distinction doesn’t sound easy. to being pushed in the wheel- the Bible studies and prayers Earth: and I think, slowly, between the two. From our point chair. It was a great opportunity began on a weekly basis. the vision of the disciples of view, ‘unchurched’ people are Graham: In many people groups to witness. Since then she has In May 2010 Dani, his began to see through If you feel challenged . . . those within reach of the Gospel: our missionaries have to start never experienced any of the wife and their two teenage those same eyes. God, for example, they have access from scratch and develop debilitating symptoms again. The children publicly gave their would you blind me, so I . . . and would like to help support, or even consider becoming, an to Christian radio and TV, Bibles materials/Bible lessons that Lord had given us our answer, hearts and lives to Jesus can see? AFM missionary, please contact Pastor Graham Allcock for more and other Christian literature, specifically target that group’s and we joined AFM. through baptism. It was a day to information at [email protected], or ring him on 01923 and access to Christians and worldview. These materials are remember, as the first Albanians *pseudonym 510150 or 07851 156635. Also visit: www.adventistfrontiers.org. churches. culture-specific and written in Editor: If there was one story in this town were baptised. A blind man, like Sadaatin 1 7 Spring collection 2 Once again, thanks for your response. The standard has been very high. You now need to start thinking about sending in your summer photos – anything that you feel shows off God’s influence with the great British summertime. I look foward to hearing from you. Please email your ‘Hi-Res’ photos to me at: [email protected]. DAVID BELL

1. Mountains. Weiers Coetser, Canon EOS 500D 2. Flowers in the park. Joyce Yates, Kodak C813 3. Brodsworth Hall, South Yorkshire. Anita Marshall, Samsung L201 4. Herring Gull. Davina Sly, Panasonic TZ10 5. Rose. Bethany Baker, Sony A580 6. Young Seal. Garfield Lynch, Nikon D300 7. Poppies. David West, Olympus E620 8. Guillemots, Farne Islands. Barry Bell, Nikon D80 8 9. Daffodil. Grace Mwilima, Canon EOS 300D 10. Hoverfly. Nico Jansen van Rensburg, Nikon D200

‘Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. . . .’ 2 3 Genesis 1:31 (NKJV)

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4 5 6 10 11 on content-sharing through Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Twenty-eight new groups and news More Adventist administrators are incorporating social media church-plants in four years into ministry. In Central Jamaica, the administrative conference is On 11 June Wallington officially have been working to formalise using Facebook as a key com- became a company at a cere - that relationship.’ Pastor Davis munication forum, and the group mony in Croydon Church, the confirmed that in the last four has 1,000 members. ‘mother church’. SEC president years the SEC has been blessed One participant noted that Pastor Sam Davis presided in the with twenty-eight new congrega- On Wednesday 1 June more than technology doesn’t necessarily presence of Croydon minister tions. Progress is being made. 100 Adventist communicators detract from interactive Pastor Richard Daly, alongside Pastor Sam Davis commen - gathered in the Jamaican city of relationships. Pastors James Phillip ded Pastor Uselac for originating Montego Bay for the Global ‘The virtual environment is a (Lewisham), Keith Boldeau the ‘Community Prayer Services’, Internet Evangelism Network real environment’, said Arnolfo (Balham) and Simeon Esson which have ‘been so effective in (GiEN) conference. The GiEN is a Ardilla, a media producer from (Beckenham). your community’. Pastor Davis community of technologists, Venezuela. Wallington started as a branch said that the Community Prayer Paul Rayne Dr Clement A. Murray evangelists, communicators, and The Church is using social Sabbath School at the instigation Services method is going to be church leaders who meet annu- media effectively in Spain, where of Elder N. Burton (and others at ‘patented’! ally to discuss the creative use of Communication director Pedro Croydon) after visiting Latvia to In his sermon, ‘Profile of a internet technology to fulfil the Torres has been sharing informa- learn about church-planting. church-planter’, Pastor Davis mission of the Church. tion on all Church initiatives on There are Biblical reasons for spoke about the suffering, GiEN was organised in 2004 Facebook. In England, Pastor reaching out and meeting the self-denial, commitment and call as an initiative of the Council on Kirsten Øster-Lundqvist, at needs of the people in our to service that are part of the Evangelism and Witness, and is Newbold College, said Facebook community. church-planting process. facilitated by the Communication often enables personal discus- Pastor Dusan Uzelac, respon- The Wallington company is department of the world Seventh- sions with teens who might feel sible for the Wallington and attended by approximately thirty day Adventist Church, in co- uncomfortable talking in person Hackbridge companies, had been people every Sabbath, and prays operation with lay initiatives. about some issues. Forrest Lake sent by Pastor Sam Davis, who for baptisms from the local Pastor Williams Costa, GC in Apopka, Florida, has already said: ‘When we sent Dusan we community: reaching out to the Communications director, stated: invested to create a substantial believed that you were already a indigenous community remains ‘A greater commitment to the online presence. company; since that time we a huge challenge. PATRICK MCKERROW design of web technology and The forum also marked the use of social media will yield presentation of the 2011 The SEC committee has requested the following notice more effective results in the Adventist netAwards. This year’s in support of important research: ministry of the Seventh-day recipients were Jose Romero, Adventist Church.’ Andrew Daryl Gungadoo, and Volunteers needed for study ‘Are we ready to make the Kenneth H. Suanzanang. In the UK, people from the African-Caribbean community have a risk of [Gospel] message a social one For more information on developing schizophrenia between two and eighteen times higher than white using the social media?’ asked GiEN 2011, visit British people (Fearon and Morgan, 2006). Evidence suggests, however, that in speaker Bryan Collick. Many http://gien.adventist.org. the Caribbean rates of schizophrenia are not inflated and are similar to those found in the UK population as a whole (Hickling, 2005). The reason for the presentations focused heavily ANSEL OLIVER/RICHARD DE LISSER The MESSENGER editor speaks to Paul Poddar, ABC manager, and his assistant, Ian Clutton, increased prevalence in the UK African-Caribbean community is, as yet, unex- about the plans for this year’s open day at The Stanborough Press. plained. Studies investigating schizophrenia among different ethnic groups have mainly focused on people who have already developed schizophrenia. An alter- Editor: Paul, I believe that open day is an annual event with a long tradition. Please tell us native would be to examine factors that are thought to put healthy individuals ‘at more. risk’ for developing schizophrenia; for example, the personality trait, schizotypy. Paul: Julian, the open day is a wonderful opportunity for us to meet our fellow church members, Schizotypy is an aspect of personality observed in both mentally healthy Open day transport people and those experiencing psychological difficulties, characterised by less and it enables them to see, perhaps for the first time, the large range of books and other products usual thought processes and psychological experiences; for example, paranoia, we offer to enrich their spiritual experience and the lives of family, friends, neighbours and work Coaches will pick up members from magical thinking and confusion. High ratings suggest a vulnerablity to colleagues. twenty-eight churches across the schizophrenia (Miller et al, 2002). Identifying people ‘at risk’ of developing midlands, from Birmingham to schizophrenia is an important factor for developing preventative interventions Editor: How many titles do you plan to put on display? Wolverhampton, to attend the for serious mental health problems. Ian: We display hundreds of titles. There is certainly something for everyone, from the toddler to Establishing whether rates of schizotypy vary across different ethnic groups Stanborough Press open day. For details, should help us to understand further what might put some people ‘at risk’ of the retiree! There will be old familiar favourites and new titles ‘hot off the press’. Whatever your phone Brother Smiley: 07868288310, schizophrenia. Improving ways of identifying people ‘at risk’ would enable the interest, there will be something for you: stories, fun children’s titles and games, Spirit of Prophecy 07789206171, 07736509625 or development of better ways to prevent the onset of serious mental health books, Bibles, lesson quarterlies, hymnals, and also DVDs, health foods and much more. 01384 213 803. problems. This study will allow an appraisal of how paranoia and magical thinking, in healthy participants with no history of psychiatric illness, vary Editor: The big retailers have got ‘roll backs’, price freezing, quantity discounts, etc, to help across different ethnic and cultural groups. bolster the consumer’s buying power – are we planning something similar for that day? Fifty-five years Ingathering The present project, between the University of Westminster and the University of the West Indies, is to investigate schizotypy between people from Ian: Yes, Julian, we will have special offers. Some will be advertised within the MESSENGER. Also, Clifford Golding has been described as ‘the £1,000 the Caribbean community who have migrated to the UK, or been born in the UK, on the day itself there will be signs to point people in the direction of our ‘on-the-day-only’ offers. I man’, a ‘Jubilee Ingatherer’. Regular MESSENGER read- and those resident in Trinidad. We will be investigating not only schizotypy but should also say that we offer discounts on bulk purchasing throughout the year – just phone our ers may remember when he surpassed all expecta- also abnormalities in thought processing (for example, memory, attention and ABC hotline (01476 539900). tions by raising a total of £1,000 for the annual ADRA perception) associated with those ‘at risk’. The first phase is a survey examining campaign. At the time, he was 83! In 2007, Clifford’s beliefs and personality types, where participants complete a questionnaire Editor: Paul, I believe you have some special activities planned for those who attend. Tell us outstanding efforts were recognised by the treasurer with some additional questions; for example, self-ascribed ethnicity, religious affiliation, socio-economic status, and substance use. This should take no more. of the South England Conference, and one Sabbath in longer than 15 minutes to complete. Paul: The special events are an important part of the day. This year we have two special guests: 2011 he was presented with an inscribed award. In response, he All information provided will remain confidential, and the identity of Pastor C. A. Murray and Paul Rayne. Those who watch 3ABN will know them well – they are both affirmed: ‘I don’t do it because I have to; I do it because I want to.’ participants will not be disclosed. Some participants may be invited to complete gifted speakers. There will also be live music throughout the day and fun activities for the younger Clifford Golding has been Ingathering for fifty-five years – the a follow-up study. However, like the first part of the study, participation is visitors, including face-painting and a ‘guess the donkey’s weight’ game! largest amount collected by him in one campaign was an astonishing entirely voluntary and full information about it will be provided before you £1,300. decide whether to take part. If you are willing to take part in the survey, please go to this address: Editor: Thank you gentlemen, it sounds like Grantham is the place to be on 11 September this We praise God, and pray that Clifford’s health may be preserved for http://schizotypy.webeden.co.uk year! Readers, set your satnavs to NG31 9SL and join us for the day. future endeavours! SYLVONIE NOEL 12 13 Baptism and ordination service Sydenham: eight souls baptised! On Sabbath 20 May, eight precious souls were added to the Sydenham On Sabbath 7 May, Tony-Lee at the church. Before her baptism church through baptism: Anna-Lee Bonifant, Milton Bromfield, Sheldon Raymond and Tilly Harrison were Tilly gave a moving testimony of Boothe, Tafari Williams, Toyin Oyelakin, Stacey Cameron, Hugo baptised at the Leamington Spa how she had struggled through Kabangu and Nelly Burke. mission. some low points in her life, and Their baptism was the culmination of a dynamic and informative Five years ago, Tony-Lee, who with Christianity itself, but after Daniel and Revelation seminar, led by Pastor Barrett – the guest lived locally, noticed the church’s seeing the positive effects it was speaker for the occasion was Pastor George S. Dadey of the Reading open doors one Saturday and having in her husband’s life she district, who travelled over 100 miles each night to unravel the two dropped in to investigate. He gradually gave her life to God books and their relevance to the present day. SYDENHAM COMMUNICATIONS Richard O’Connell’s baptism liked the welcoming and friendly again. On Sabbath 21 January, Richard O’Connell – a wheelchair user with a atmosphere, and recently decided The service also included the Left to right: Pastor Francis Njau, Sharon Cole, Ricardo Bryan, Valeen Sylvan-Mcdonald, great sense of humour – was baptised, in his own pool, into the to commit his life to Christ and presentation of a Bible Studies Ronique Sylvester, Ellise Sydney, Pastor Michael Mbui. Newport church by Pastor David Rancic. He had been introduced to be baptised. certificate to Robyn, a younger the church by Clare Roberts, at the time his carer and fiancée, who Tilly was introduced to the member who looks forward to Five baptised after prophecy seminar! has since become Clare O’Connell, his wife! Richard says the warmth church when her husband Andy being baptised when she is older, The Chiswick and Acton churches studied the book of Daniel in April, and friendship of the church brought him to Christ, and now he and was baptised two years ago, and the ordination of a female focusing especially on the implications for us as Adventists today. Clare are very active in the church. DAVID RANCIC after coming to an Alpha Course elder, Antonia Castellino. Family The study was aided by Daniel and Our Destiny, authored by Pastor and friends of Tony-Lee and Tilly Frances Njau of the New Life church in Nairobi. He spoke in May, came to witness the happy day! following presentations by the local pastor, Michael Mbui, and Acton through studying about God and COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Chance meeting in street his love and by conviction of the elders, Darren Ross and Kevin Charles. Spirit I have accepted Jesus The programme ended on Sabbath 14 May at Chiswick, with a bap- leads to four baptisms Christ fully.’ tismal service where Ronique Sylvester, Ellise Sydney, Ricardo Bryan, The fifth candidate, Elijah Sharon Cole and Valeen Sylvan-Mcdonald publicly announced that God When a Seventh-day Adventist Robin says: ‘I have become a Edwards, attends the Southall is now at the centre of their lives. COMMUNICATION DEPT (Roshan Cruz) and a Roman true Christian now and there is church. Pastor Wilmott preached, Catholic (Robin Anthony) met in no going back.’ and Pastor Everett Picart bap- West London, they started talking Kaviraj says: ‘I used to believe tised the candidates; at the bap- 400 NEC Adventurers about Jesus, and started a Bible that there is no God. I even tried tistry appeal, four more from the study group to discuss him to prove it. Then I was forced to Wembley group, including further. Soon after, Robin’s family take baptism, but I stopped going Robin’s wife, expressed their camp in Walesby started attending. Pastor Paul to that church. By the will of God desire to be baptised into the Willmott helped them to start a I gradually understood the truth Seventh-day Adventist Church! he North England building, apple-baking, parachute new group, naming it Wembley and believed in the Word of God.’ SOUTHALL COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT Conference Adventurer games, goal-scoring and tree- International Seventh-day Agaliya says: ‘My Christian TCamporee was held at the climbing. Campers revealed that Adventist Group: then they heard journey has just started. I want to Walesby Scout Campsite in happiness is ‘having a family’ about the baptism in Southall walk with God and stay close to Cork’s amazing trio Nottinghamshire over the week- and ‘going to church’. On the Church scheduled for 7 May, and him.’ baptised! end starting 27 May. Nearly 400 final day in the results of the decided they too would like to be Eenid says: ‘Ten years ago I under-10s attended, with more inspections, Great Brickkiln Street baptised! didn't accept God. But now Athini, Sphe, and Asi are young than 500 in attendance for the scored 59.61 points, Liverpool people who chose to be connec - Sabbath Service! scored 60 points and Windsor ted with the Creator God on 11 The children from Bournville Street kept the trophy as top June, off the shores of took their turn in leading the wor- Adventurer club in the NEC. Ringaskiddy, County Cork, ship on Sabbath morning; the The ultimate aim of the camp- through baptism. speaker was Pastor Pat Douglas, oree, however, was realised as Praise God for these three from Smethwick and New Life, a children discovered ‘the amazing young men: their passion for new church-plant in the love of Jesus that led him to die Christ is exciting to the Cork Birmingham area. Pastor Patricia on the Cross . . . for me.’ church! CORK COMMUNICATIONS brought pictures and video inter- views with many of the children, who told of their hopes for the future. These were followed by a deep talk, which most of the children were well able to under- stand. The children began pray- ing, ‘Help us to believe that you Photo left to right: Pastor Paul Willmott, Elder Harriett Lawrence, Kaviraj Tharmarajasingham, Agaliya Tharmarajasingham, Elder Burton Samuel, Roshan Cruz, Robin Anthony, Pastor Everett can save us all’, and, ‘Thank you Picart, Eenid Tharmarajasingham, Elijah Edwards. for doing those amazing things with the disciples.’ Lyndon Sweeney hosted offered to anyone who completed Should the offer be extended to the Saturday evening spiritual 250 Bibles: 10,000 Bible studies ten or more of the studies – the conferences, funding and concert: the West Bromwich This week the Quiz28 website at taken to complete each online since then ministers and mem- administrative support would be Adventurers sang ‘Midnight Cry’, www.quiz28.org, which opened study is 15 minutes, which bers have given out more than needed. and Lyndon Sweeney treated the at the beginning of 2009 with the means that the site has engaged 250 Bibles and have registered Try the online quizzes for congregation to a solo before initial aim of increasing knowl- people from all over the world in 700 students on the site. Each yourself at: www.quiz28.org. giving a spiritual summary of edge of the Bible and the twenty- some 2,500 hours of Bible study. one could be invited to future WELSH MISSION STAFF the day’s events. eight Fundamental Beliefs of the The site was opened up to the evangelistic campaigns or other Spirited Sunday activities Seventh-day Adventist Church, general public by advertising it church-based events. included driving buggies around a (Note that the gift Bible offer is only available clocked up its 10,000th complet- through Google’s AdWords pro- At the moment Bibles are only in the United Kingdom, and is intended for track to earn a road safety award, ed Bible study. The average time gramme, and a gift Bible was advertised in the three missions. non-members only.) creating shadow puppets, fire- 14 15 other talents, especially the one of simple their wedding – a union that was to last New sign and minibus for New Life NEC singles’ weekend results in marriage! helpfulness. ‘I seem to remember,’ said his nearly forty-five years! During their mar- On Sabbath 4 June the Hill Top Community Centre – where the New Wenna Diesto and Przemek Boloz became prayer partners at a singles’ obituaries daughter, ‘that Dad was always being asked riage they embraced two boys, whom they Life Community fellowship each week – gained a new sign weekend arranged by the NEC in 2009, at the Leicester church. Nearly to mend things for people.’ loved dearly. John loved Ingathering and When the Throssells retired in 1982 spreading the Gospel through literature. outside: Seventh-day Adventist Church! a year later they spoke on the phone, and their relationship blossomed! On 1 January Wenna accepted Przemek’s proposal, and they were David Throssell he made his way to college at Newbold they moved to Lingmoor, an Adventist re- Today, Brother Deo Meghan is a member of The local councillor, Michael Middleton, and his team welcomed tirement home at Poole, Dorset. There they the church due to John and Lillian’s efforts. the sign as a way of recognising the fellowship’s projects, such as married at the Worcester church on 28 April by Pastor Adrian Broome (1918-2011) d. Revel, Warwickshire. Here he spent two 31 March. The happy years, working to part-pay his fees spent twenty-one happy years with other The funeral service was conducted in Christ of Christmas, Hosting the Homeless and Loving the Lonely, and Elder Charles Lamont. Wenna’s friend, Daniel Sunico, gave her retirees, many of whom they had known the Coventry Central church by Pastor away since her family are in the Philippines, and Johanne Importante passing of David under the tuition of the legendary Bob and ministry at various community events. Throssell broke Wilson, head of maintenance, who taught over the years. Here the sea and fellowship Peter Sayers, supported by Brother Allan New Life purchased a minibus recently for picking up their children and Hubert Smith-Samuels were Przemek’s best men. another link with him, he said, ‘everything he knew’. When with members of the Bournemouth church Lanham and Sister Alison Ducan, the for worship, for feeding the homeless, and for the distribution of WENNA BOLOZ AND DORIS LACK the early days of the Second World War broke out, David added even more to their contentment. organist. The message centred on the Sadly, however, the idyll came to an end reality of Christ’s Second Coming. John clothes and provisions for the needy in their community. Along its side our Church in followed the example of most young Britain. David was Adventist men and registered as a consci- when his wife Mabel died in 2003. was finally laid to rest in Lenton’s Lane are Jesus’ words, ‘When I was hungry you fed me, and when I was The following year David moved to Cemetery, Coventry. naked you clothed me.’ On its first day a homeless person approached born in 1918 and entious objector, and was ordered to do spent his first five years on what, with work of national importance on the land, Winchester to be closer to his daughter, May our prayers and sympathies for them for food. Stockton gentle irony, was then dubbed ‘Holy Row’ – another occupation not really to his taste. and ultimately spent his last two years in Lillian, Daniel and Paul, and all of John’s Pastor Ian Sweeney preached a message of responsibility to move Stanborough Park. This was a time of David, always modest and self-effacing, her care. He died peacefully on the last day family and friends, continue with hope and beyond hatred towards love. The service climaxed with the unveiling of severe hardship, and money and food were was well-known for his many talents, of March 2011; ‘much missed by us all,’ assurance. the new signs. short, and queues long, but David’s parents especially the practical ones. He was well- wrote his daughter, ‘including Molly the PASTOR PETER SAYERS Zone retriever!’ were good Adventists and sent him to the equipped to accept a posting to Newbold PATRICK HERBERT Jean Evans (1933-2011) d. 5 May. local church school. When he finished his College as Head of Maintenance in 1948. ‘It David had married Mabel Wood, a It is with great sadness that I have to report primary schooling, he had to take a was a very good move’, he said with justifi- trainee nurse at ‘the San’, in 1943. Theirs the death of my dear wife Jean, who was picnic Greenline coach, a train and a tram to able satisfaction, and so it was; for in that was a happy union blessed by two originally a member of Wimbledon Church Walthamstow every day to continue in capacity he was able at last to exercise his children, Leigh and Lorna. To them and to and helped me out with the caretaking Adventist education. At 15, he started work engineering, electrical, electronic, planning David’s grandchildren, Richard and Joanna, when needed. at ‘the San’ as ‘Buttons’, a job he and managing skills to the full for the next we offer our deepest sympathy and remind We were faithful members in the didn’t like, so it is not surprising that at 18 thirty-four years. Nor did he neglect to use them that ‘we sorrow not as those without hope’. company for many years of Pastors John High Force Falls, Teesdale. DR A. J. WOODFIELD Wilson, Arthur Campbell and Duncan Rose when they were teenagers, not forgetting Erdington international day John Batts (1922-2011) d. 1 April. Margaret Lacey and the Lamey family, and Homecoming day in Preston Though John was a very thoughtful, quiet, the Loughrans. Erdington celebrated its international day on 3 April, with members caring and genuine person, he did not We moved to Ramsgate in the mid ’60s The theme for Preston’s homecoming day on Sabbath 28 May was and visitors from China, Ghana, Ireland, Jamaica, Malawi, Russia, ‘The journey home’, and Shirley Grant, preaching on the Israelites’ tolerate fools or arrogance. to improve Jean’s health, but she was not Trinidad, the UK and Zimbabwe: many in colourful national costumes. While seeking the right church in his able to get to the nearest church at wilderness years, reminded congregants that they too are witnesses The Bible text (1 Corinthians 13:1-13) was read in English, Mandarin, late twenties, he discovered a campaign in Canterbury very often due to a form of within their community – just as the Preston church’s founders were in Twi, Irish, Patois, Chichewa, Russian, French, Latin and Shona. a Seventh-day Adventist hall that began his muscular dystrophy called Charcot-Marie- the 1960s. JENNY JEFFERS The music was provided by ‘Wonderful Voices’, and young people lifelong journey in the Adventist faith. Tooth disease (named after three doctors). performed dramatisations. During the ’50s he was encouraged to She enjoyed the ministry of Pastor Horace Margaret Antonio and Leisa Creed-Walker wish to congratulate all go to Newbold College, and served there in Pearce on frequent occasions, who was an the maintenance team for ten years. After inspiration to her at home. the members, especially Cliff Lewis for organising the young people. this he served as a nursing orderly for one We were later persuaded to follow our JOHN OSEI-BEMPONG year in the Peace Memorial Hospital in son Stephen to Warrington, Cheshire, in Watford, before going on to the Crieff 1982, where she suffered increasing immo- nursing home. Afterwards he returned to bility and later breathing problems due to Coventry, where he did joinery work before muscle weakness. She was an in-patient on joining Gulson Hospital. It was there that numerous occasions in Warrington he met Burt Ives, who later joined the Hospital before succumbing to complete Adventist Church. respiratory failure in a Liverpool hospital. He found the love of his life, Lillian Her husband and son mourn her loss Batts, through the match-making skills of until the Great Life-giver recalls her ashes Alison Duncan’s mother, who engineered to life everlasting. Pastor Daniel of the their earlier meetings before they got Liverpool church officiated at Walton Lea married. Crematorium, Warrington, on Wednesday What is left of the old pipe organ in the 18 May. Coventry Central church was first played at DAVID EVANS

Montserratians and friends Hundreds of Montserratians and their friends congregated at the New Camp meeting ordination Life church in Milton Keynes on Sabbath 28 May, with the theme: ‘In At this year’s joint camp meeting, six candidates were ordained: Christ I Rise’. The Sabbath School was led by Mavis Bramble and her From the SEC were Pastor Petras Bahadur (serving as the Adventist- team from Watford, and the lesson study was presented by a young Muslim Relations director), Pastor Anthony Opoku-Mensah (from the lady, Charlotte Bramble. Norbury and Redhill churches), and Pastor Bernard Akakpo (from the During the Divine Service, Pastor Eglan Brooks, BUC Personal Clapton Community church). From the NEC were Dan Majaducon Ministries, LIFEdevelopment and Church Growth director, based his (from the Wednesfield, Dudley and Tipton churches) and Victor sermon on 2 Corinthians 4:8-11, and Pastor Don McFarlane and his Dacosta Marshall (from the Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield family brought greetings on behalf of the Church in the UK and Ireland. Burngreave churches). The three Adventist churches in Montserrat congregated to view the ‘Ministry is not your gift to God,’ Pastor Henry Wright said, ‘it’s day’s service online, and principal co-ordinator of the day, Elder God’s gift to you! . . . A person is called to ministry so that God can William B. Riley, thanked God for the technology to do this (see meet your needs.’ www.justin.tv/mratuk to view the broadcast). Because of the five-hour The charge was given by the pre-session BUC president, Pastor time difference, some folk in Montserrat attended church before 7am McFarlane, and the prayer of ordination by the BUC secretary at the to join the service! (See more from the day at: time, Pastor Eric Lowe. There was no ‘North or South’ divide here, but http://www.justin.tv/newcarmel/b/286889741.) total unity under the inspiration of God. Mrs Janice Panton MBE addressed the congregation, and the The service ended with a response to the charge by Pastor Akakpo afternoon’s programme included many musical renditions. and a song of consecration by Sister Marylene Akakpo. The presence MARCELLE RILEY of the Lord was in this place. RICHARD DALEY 16 from the folk who had attended. The kindness, consideration and back page attention given to their health concerns had really impressed them. They found it hard to Newtown health day Pastor Roger Neal believe that a church could have such concerns for its community. On Tuesday 24 May in Newtown, The feedback has been Everyone was made aware that Wales, the thirteen-strong NEC tremendous. The expo team were the health expo was a community health expo team staged a health able to witness to the chef at a programme given free by the expo community outreach pro- local restaurant, Brown’s of Seventh-day Adventist Church, gramme, together with the mem- Newtown, who said he would and that the local group meets bers of the Newtown company. now offer vegan meals on his every Saturday morning at the The local Newtown members menu! Treowen Community Centre. New book of the week hired an empty charity shop in The Market Hall manager from Forty-two individuals left their Sharing Jesus in the the town centre on Tuesday whom Newtown members hired contact details, giving great hope (market day) and Newtown the shop premises had been for the future. Workplace members invited shoppers to overwhelmed with compliments by Terry Messenger have their health checked by the Ever wanted to share your faith in Christ expo team under the directorship with those you see every day, yet been of Grace Walsh. unsure where to start? Now you have In addition to the health no excuse! This handy booklet shows checks, every visitor went away us how our place of work can be a place with at least one piece of litera- for evangelism. ture: Ellen White’s Happiness Contact ABC Sales on Digest (Steps to Christ). 01476 539900 The expo was scheduled to to purchase your copy finish by 4pm, but, as folk were at just 50p each plus p&p. still streaming through the door, it ABC BOOK SALES was about 5.30pm when the team finally shut up shop. Forty-two individuals left their contact details, giving great hope for the future! September 1, 2 SEC Session, Warwick University 11 Stanborough Press Open Day Literature missionaries Literature evangelism is a preacher usually find no ABC Shops a silent messenger, and the opportunity to argue with the Watford, BUC in March benefits are enormous – those book! 9am-1pm, 1.30-5pm Monday-Thursday 9am-12pm Friday On 21 May (the day Harold individuals who may argue with SARAH LUBANGA Birmingham Aston-Newton Camping predicted that Jesus 11am-4pm, Wednesday would return) twelve missionaries 4pm-8pm, Thursday entered March, Cambridge, with 9am-1pm, Friday the third angel’s message. 11am-3pm, Sunday Advent Centre The response to this ‘invasion’ Mondays & Wednesdays, 6.30pm-8.30pm was eager and receptive. The Sundays, 11am-3pm neighbours drove to one another and talked to each other about the missionaries’ presence. In Messenger Volume 116 • 18 – 19 August 2011 two hours, 400 books and 600 Editor: J. G. Hibbert cards were distributed, including Contributing Editor: Dr D. N. Marshall Proof Reader: Andrew Puckering The Great Controversy, Patriarchs Design: David Bell and Prophets, Steps to Christ, COPY FOR No. 20 – 25 August 2011

Desire of Ages, ADC cards and Copy should be sent to the Editor, M ESSENGER, The pamphlets. Six people returned Stanborough Press Limited, Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. the books, but six others took Fax No: (01476) 577144. them on! The fact that the Good Email: [email protected] Send high resolution pictures to: News must be preached as a [email protected] testimony continued to inspire ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 the missionaries. Mon-Thurs only, 8am - 5.30pm. Pastor Everett Picart had www.stanboroughpress.com The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand roused Hanwell members with articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British Union his sermon two weeks before, Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. and Hanwell’s Elder Albert and Printed in the UK. Carol Fletcher, Lucinda Annan, Visit the BUC website at: www.adventist.org.uk Tessa Fletcher and other Hanwell ISSN 0309-3654 members were privileged to Sunset witness with conviction. Sunset times are reproduced with permission from If the Gospel is to penetrate data supplied by HM Nautical Almanac Office. into places were it has never Lond Card Nott Edin Belf Aug 19 8.16 8.28 8.24 8.41 8.47 reached, literature ministry has to 26 8.01 8.13 8.08 8.21 8.31 Sept 2 7.46 7.58 7.52 8.06 8.14 be taken up with zeal by all 9 7.30 7.42 7.36 7.47 7.56 church members. The church MESSENGER SUBSCRIPTIONS leaders need to lead and encour- Cost to members supplied in bulk to churches £6. age the rest of the members into Single copy subscription by post £13. Overseas airmail £27.50 the Lord’s work!