theadvocate.tv NOVEMBER 2013

“What the Bible teaches us is that unlike much secular In conversation Keith Jobberns talks leadership today, success isn’t just around the corner.” about the state of Baptist churches in LLOYD PORTER PAGE 13>> Australia PAGE 12 >> 14 Baptist homes 5 A new generation of support Gavin Douglas’ Grandad’s destroyed work helps him to connect with Aboriginal inmates >>

Catastrophic fires that devastated New South Wales last month have claimed the homes of 14 families from Baptist churches.

At the time of going to press, basic personal needs and we’re almost 200 homes had been collecting cash to help with 7 Sportsfest a winner destroyed in the Springwood/ medium and long-term needs,” Early spring rain did Winmalee area. Clive said. nothing to dampen Baptist ministries in NSW Springwood Baptist Church competitor enthusiasm at affected by the fires included is also offering leadership to the annual Sportsfest >> 20 churches, the Kiah Ridge local groups, including sport and campsite which had to be community support clubs. evacuated, a school and an aged care centre. None of these properties were damaged. At Springwood in the Blue At Springwood Mountains, fire destroyed the homes of ten Baptist families. in the Blue The homes of two families from Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Mountains, fire Church and two from Glenbrook destroyed the 11 No holiday at

Baptist were also destroyed. Photo: Tim Hunter Bangkok Hilton Springwood Baptist Church homes of ten Patrick Adel stands in front of what was the Adel family home in Ellen Broerse is preparing Secretary Clive Dillen told The Winmalee, NSW. His church family at Springwood Baptist Church is her 19th visit to some of Advocate accommodation has Baptist families. helping the family as they start on their journey of a fresh beginning. Thailand’s worst prisons >> been found for all the Springwood families. “We want to be seen, more homes, church leaders “Patrick Adel and his family trusted and useful now with at times felt overwhelmed as were already under pressure with “We’re pretty clear about what the immediate trauma still they heard more stories of pain his wife in an induced coma we can offer – we’re a church happening around us, and on and grief being inflicted on the following brain surgery when the and our primary focus is offering into the mid-term and long-term people in their communities. Building healthy fires struck,” Clive said. counselling, care, friendship and – we want to be relevant.” The full toll of the fires will churches. “Now they have lost their prayer,” Clive said. Calling for people to pray not be appreciated for some home and their two children Many local businesses are that all church people would weeks and it will take a very long are struggling a bit – we’ve conducted from home offices respond with grace, Clive time for families to recover and found accommodation for them and the church has offered office implored people to not judge get back on their feet. already.” space with Wi-Fi access at the those who may not have taken The Advocate readers’ “Some families are just in church to local businesses and out insurance. prayers will be valued by all those BAPTIST CHURCHES short-term places but others politicians. “And pray for healing for our affected now and into the future. WESTERN AUSTRALIA are in medium and long-term As well as providing financial whole community, including Baptist Churches Western accommodation.” assistance to those who have those who no longer have their Australia Director of Ministries, “We’re working alongside lost all of their possessions, the homes,” Clive said. Mark Wilson encouraged other groups, backing up church is offering counselling “Pray we will take all the churches to contribute to the government agencies and groups and acting as a hub where people opportunities we get to talk with NSW/ACT Bush Fire Appeal. like the Salvos.” can meet and talk through their people about Jesus and His love “Visit www.mybaptistchurch. “We’re working with loss and grief. and care.” org.au/donations to make a tax Samaritan’s Purse, distributing “Please ask your readers to With fires in the area deductible donation to the Bush kits that will help with immediate pray for us,” Clive said. continuing to burn and threaten Fire Appeal,” Mark said. 2 my view

NOVEMBER 2013 Power relationships – Ezekiel 34

In an age prevalent with Royal Commissions, the church is again looking initiated it’, or ‘it was as much carefully at leader-follower relationships and considering the importance of what they wanted as what I boundaries. wanted’. Leaders must take responsibility for their actions It shouldn’t take government the wool, and butcher the best God makes it abundantly clear knowing that they answer to pressure or social expectations animals, but you let your flocks in scripture that the leader’s God, not just to humans. Healthy to force widespread reflection on starve. You have not taken care of role is one of stewardship, not self-awareness and personal matters the Bible makes explicit the weak. You have not tended the ownership, in regard to the sheep boundaries (internal integrity), and clear. sick or bound up the injured. You He gives into the leader’s care. as well as good accountability In Ezekiel 34:2-4 we read: have not gone looking for those When we take what is not ours and church procedures (external ‘Son of man, prophesy against who have wandered away and are to take, we are stealing not only integrity), are needed to the shepherds, the leaders of Israel. lost. Instead, you have ruled them from the sheep but from God maintain healthy leader-follower Steve Ingram Give them this message from with harshness and cruelty.’ (NLT) Himself. relationships. Steve Ingram is Leadership the Sovereign Lord: What sorrow In any leadership role, the It is common for a leader, Preventative action is far more Development Consultant with awaits you shepherds who feed onus is on that individual to when confronted about helpful than simply caring after Baptist Churches Western yourselves instead of your flocks. ensure their motivation and inappropriate behaviour, to try the fact. Some things that are Australia. Shouldn’t shepherds feed their actions are guided by the needs and justify taking advantage of a stolen can never be returned and sheep? You drink the milk, wear of the follower, not their own. follower with excuses like ‘they some wounds leave lasting scars.

Not such a bloodthirsty book ...

Ever heard people mutter, ‘But the Bible is such a attributed to God’s help. David is what we should long for and bloodthirsty book?’ would never have defeated the work towards. Jesus reminds us giant Goliath unless God had in Matthew 5:9 that it is peace made it possible. Why then does makers, not peace breakers, who On more than one occasion A clearer insight into the God decline David’s services are the children of God. When I have been asked to defend heartbeat of God is given in 1 as temple builder? We must placed in the impossible situation the moral vision of the Bible, Chronicles 22:6-10 and 28:1-3. In conclude that whilst God agreed of having to choose between particularly that of the Old these passages, David explains that the brokenness of David’s bad and worse, it is true that Testament, because of the many that God had forbidden him to time required tough military warfare was sometimes seen as corpses scattered across its pages. build the temple because the action, God was unwilling for the lesser evil, but to imagine it is A quick reading could give warfare with which he was warrior imagery to be associated therefore God’s ideal is to ignore the impression that God is associated excluded him from with the temple. In short, God the witness of the temple David Dr Brian Harris very one-sided, caring about the project. For its time, this makes it clear that warfare is a didn’t build. Dr Brian Harris is the the Israelites but having little is radically counter-cultural, tragic consequence of human Principal of Vose Seminary time for anyone else. While especially as ancient kings evil, and that it will never have the and Senior Pastor of Carey the loss of Hebrew lives on the routinely built temples to thank last word. Community Baptist Church. Bible’s battlefields is seen as their gods for military victories. Isaiah 2:4 imagines a day tragic, Canaanite, Philistine and These passages are when swords will be beaten Egyptian carcasses don’t really fascinating. After all, David’s into ploughshares and spears seem to matter. many military victories are made into pruning hooks. This

Disabling prejudices

With International Day of People with Disability coming up on 3 December, makes his presence known. This I want to remind readers how important it is to engage, encourage and include is hard to accept in a success and people with disabilities into your church community. production-oriented society.” [Henri Nouwen, The Road to Daybreak – A Spiritual Journey, This is a topic I am very passionate of great blessing, but also struggle, Vanier, Thomas Reynolds and p.19] about — even more passionate disillusion and despondency. Henri Nouwen. Of course the Yangebup Baptist Church than supporting the Dockers! So what can you do? Well, not Bible is your most valuable will be holding their annual About 20 percent of people ignore them; you can engage resource in this area. Disability Service to celebrate in Australia have a recognised with them, ask them how they Henri Nouwen, a Catholic International Day of People with disability and another ten percent are going, be friends with them, theologian who gave up his Disability on Sunday 1 December. care for people with a disability. volunteer to help (or help their tenure at Harvard University to Bellevue Baptist Associate Pastor Yet, of the 19 percent of often overwhelmed carers), be work with mentally and physically and PhD student Carmel Wright, Craig Siggins Australians who attend church employed as a support worker, disabled people, said: sister to and then mother of a Craig Siggins is Pastor at regularly, only five percent are and encourage your church to be “Jesus speaks through the disabled person, will be the guest Yangebup Baptist Church. people with disabilities do. [Luke more proactive with people with broken hearts of the handicapped, speaker. 14/CBM and ABS/NCLS] disability. who are considered marginal and Disable your prejudices and I enjoy working with people There are also some great useless. But God has chosen them engage with the disabled. God with disabilities – there are times books you can read by Jean to be the poor through whom he will bless you. 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

NOVEMBER 2013 Five new pastors accredited

More than 150 people from Baptist churches across the state attended the Annual Assembly of the Baptist Churches Western Australia at Yokine Baptist Church on 12 October.

Yokine’s worship team led a vibrant segment of contemporary worship before the entire gathering broke into small groups to pray for the work and ministry of the Baptist Churches Western Australia (BCWA). Australian Baptist Ministries National Ministries Director, Keith Jobberns inspired and challenged the group when he spoke on the state of the Baptist

churches across Australia. (See Photo: Jill Birt page 12 for an interview with Director of Ministries Mark Wilson presents certificates and Bibles to the newly accredited pastors. Keith.) A highlight of this year’s based at Carey Community Darren Chua from Mt to Katanning after arriving in state in the past 12 months, meeting was the presentation Baptist Church and works as a Hawthorn Baptist Church was Australia as refugees. including 44 at the campuses of of five newly accredited Prison Chaplain at Banksia Hill elected as a member of the Baptist A highlight of the Assembly 1Church (Mandurah, Lakelands pastors. BCWA Church Liaison Detention Centre. Union of Western Australia was a group of 20 Karen and Austin Cove) and ten at Consultant Steve Ingram Pastor Peter Randell is Youth Council. young people who drove Gnowangerup. introduced each of the new Pastor at Waratah Christian The Katanning Karen from Katanning to sing at the Mark also mentioned an pastors before the Accreditation Community just south of Baptist Church was accepted meeting. Their vitality and increase of 16 congregations, Team prayed for them, setting Mandurah. as a Member Church within exquisite harmonies captivated including the two new Paradox them apart for the ministry of Pastor David Wager has the Baptist Churches Western the audience who responded by Church congregations God’s Kingdom through Baptist recently concluded as pastor at Australia. giving a standing ovation. (Palmyra and Armadale), Grace Churches Western Australia. Gnowangerup Baptist Church The Katanning Karen Baptist Marc Chan announced a Community Church (South Each pastor gave a succinct and is considering future Church began in early 2010 new church plant, the WA Matu Fremantle), Shalom Community three minute testimony about ministry plans. when a group of Karen people Baptist Church, which began Church (Forrestfield), the the highlights of their life Pastor Sheldrin D’Rozario moved to Katanning to work in early in 2013. Originally from the International Evangelical Church journey. from Riverton Baptist the local abattoir. Cross Cultural northern region of Burma, this which meets in Balga and the Mt Hawthorn Baptist Church Community Church is Chaplain and Indigenous Ministries group now meets at the Baptist Sudanese congregation that is Youth Pastor Chris Green is at Osborne Park Hospital. Consultant Marc Chan worked Ministry Centre on Sunday part of Yokine Baptist Church. currently on sabbatical living Pastors Neil Brandon and with the group to establish a afternoons. Newly re-appointed Principal with his wife and son in Albany Bruce Miller’s accreditation as Karen Baptist Church in the BCWA Director of Ministries of Vose Seminary Dr Brian where she is a doctor. Baptist pastors was confirmed at town. Many of the 35-member Mark Wilson reported there Harris and BCWA Business Pastor Gavin Douglas is the meeting. congregation initially moved were 333 baptisms across the Manager Terry Hicks outlined plans for a building program at the Seminary. Current facilities could not cope with the more than 100 full-time students Camps go digital currently training at the Dr Harris stays Seminary.

Online registrations are now available for Vose Seminary Principal Dr Brian Harris received Juniors and Inters camps at Serpentine in a resounding vote of confidence as he was January 2014. re‑appointed to the position for a further term at

the Baptist Churches Western Australia (BCWA) Priscilla Penn from Baptist Years 4 to 7. Annual Assembly on 12 October. Churches Western Australia Both groups can register (BCWA) said this was the online for the camps at www. Parkerville Baptist Church first time BCWA had been baptistwa.asn.au before they in the Hills area of Perth, Dr Harris first took the helm at his insights which inform able to process team member close on Friday 6 December. Western Australia the beginning of 2004 and has how he serves on the board of registrations online. Team members for both is seeking a . guided the seminary through several church, educational and “I’m sure people are going camps can also register online. Senior Pastor a phase of rapid growth and mission organisations. to be very happy to be able to Are you an experienced pastor development during this Pastor at large and Chairman register whenever they have More news about the camps with excellent teaching, decade. of the Board of the Carey time to do so,” Pricilla said. “It’s will be posted on the camps’ leadership and pastoral gifts? Support for Dr Harris at the Community in Perth’s southern just so convenient.” Facebook pages: BCWA Annual Assembly was suburbs, Dr Harris is also The theme for the 2014 • Juniors: www.facebook. Is God prompting you to look for a new opportunity to serve overwhelming with 90 percent member of the editorial board of summer camps is The com/BCWAChildren in a growing, healthy church? of delegates voting in favour of the revamped Pacific Journal of Incredible Race. • Inters: www.facebook. the appointment. Baptist Research and a regular Inters camp will be held com/BCWAYouth For more information contact Recognised for his contributor to The Advocate. from 2 to 6 January for the Call Committee preaching, teaching and writing The new appointment students in Years 8 to 10, while Chairperson Mr Chris Vigus talents, Brian has earned a commences on 1 January 2014 the Juniors camp will run from (08) 9252 1819 reputation for his understanding for a term of three years. 7 to 11 January for children in [email protected] of the Christian church and 4 news

NOVEMBER 2013

Ministries expo Newest leader Photo: Jill Birt Vose students try out playing soccer with foam noodles, which many Bethanie senior citizens enjoy.

YouthCare’s team shared the joys and significance of

Christian agencies and churches showcased chaplaincy work in Western Photo: Laura McRae ministry and work opportunities for Vose Seminary Australian schools and Scripture Neil Anderson with BaptistCare CEO Dr Lucy Morris. students at its inaugural Vose Expo held in late Union’s workers described the fulfilment and challenges of September. working with a wide variety of children and young people across Neil Anderson has been appointed Leader - Mission Agencies including BaptistCare, children’s and youth workers and the state. and Service to BaptistCare’s Perth team. Bethanie, Churches of Christ, communications specialists. Vose Mission Director Lloyd Global Interaction, Scripture Bethanie Chaplain and Porter said last year the Seminary Union, YouthCare and Baptist Vose graduate Kerryn Monger had hosted a similar expo for the Neil’s background in pastoral “Though we live out our Churches Western Australia sent organised a demonstration game 14 mission agencies that have care, anthropology and values in the heat of life and representatives to share their of Bethanie’s style of soccer partnered with Vose Seminary. leadership has prepared him well difficulty, and sometimes information at the event. where student teams of three sat “It’s a critical time while for this role. we struggle to express these Groups hosted booth displays facing the opposing team and students are still preparing to be The values of the perfectly, we can be confident if and distributed information about scored goals using a small ball involved in ministry for them to organisation – dignity and we hold them deeply at the centre the range of experiences available with foam noodles. Many senior be able to talk with people who compassion in relationships; of all we do, they will be purified,” to explore. Representatives each citizen residents at Bethanie aged have experience in the areas the integrity and respect in Neil said. spoke for eight minutes in the care homes enjoy playing this students are still dreaming about,” personal and organisational “The imperfections will rise Seminary’s chapel about their style of soccer. Lloyd said. behaviour; courage and justice forth and be discarded. We will group’s work and highlighted the “Aged care is so much more “I believe this Expo is just as in actions; stewardship of the become better in who we are and extensive ministry opportunities than keeping senior citizens safe,” critical for the students.” responsibilities in their care and how we serve and relate with available to graduates. Kerryn said. Vose Seminary Principal Dr accountability for performances others.” Baptist Churches Western “Our people love this game. It Brian Harris was impressed with – are the values Neil will be BaptistCare is forging Australia (BCWA) Director can get quite competitive!” the preparation and presentation translating into the caring work ahead with its aim to work with of Ministries Mark Wilson Global Interaction’s Western from the various agencies and of the BaptistCare team. excellence in every area of service introduced several ministries Australia State Director Colin churches. Acknowledging the refining to some of the often forgotten and available through BCWA ranging Meadows said he had significant With new students studying at process that life, with its challenges isolated people in communities. from administrative jobs in the conversations with several the Seminary each year, there is and suffering, brings to people These people have needs that Baptist Ministry Centre and students who were keen to plenty of potential for even more and groups, Neil understands how can be overlooked or ignored by local churches, to pastoral roles explore cross-cultural work impact and influence from future changes take place and become corporations working too strictly in local churches and camps, options. expos. part of their core. to a program.

digital church briefs

23/09/2013 02/10/2013 14/10/2013 Baptisms GI stamp program Carlos Whittaker Kent Shaffer Steven Furtick John Packard and Mark Preston Global Interaction stamp program Ragamuffinsoul.com churchrelevance.com stevenfurtick.com were baptised at Cranbrook Baptist volunteers raised almost $70,000 “Yesterday morning, many of “… the most striking moves of “There is no guarantee that Church on 22 September. in 2013 from churches and us got up, got dressed, went to God I see often seem grassroots once we place our faith in individuals collecting stamps church and drank our coffee and unorganised in such a way the hands of Christ, that our Dedication and buying stamps from Global while we sang some songs and that nobody can take the credit lives will suddenly, magically Lincoln Neil Preston, son of Neil Interaction. For more information, listened to a talk about our faith except for God. Many moves of improve. In fact, we often find and Dallis Preston was dedicated visit www.globalinteraction.org.au/ in Jesus. Yesterday morning, God are mundane in institutional that it’s quite the opposite. at Cranbrook Baptist Church on Support/Stamps. some brothers and sister in appearance but radical in local But as Christians, our lives 22 September. Christ on the other side of the impact.” fortunately are not dependent Public Meeting world got up, got dressed, got on the outcome of our Marriage The Baptist Historical Society of nervous, prayed for their safety, 11/10/2013 circumstances, no matter how Michael Webster (formerly from Western Australia AGM will be held went to church and were killed, Dan King shaky and unstable they may Albany Baptist Church) and Clare at Como Baptist Church at 2.30pm because they profess their faith bibledude.net become.” Beech (Cranbrook Baptist Church) 10 November. Pastor Karen Siggins in Jesus. 78 of them. 78 of us. “When you become aware of were married at Stephen and Carly will be speaking on ‘Women in One church. Our church. a problem, you are suddenly Beech’s family farm in Tenterden Pastoral Ministry in WA’. Everyone accountable to do something by Pastor Henry Harding on is welcome to attend. For more about it.” 14 September. information, contact Rhoda on 9384 5460. news 5

NOVEMBER 2013 Hope for Aboriginal inmates

“I remember as a kid in Carnarvon and Derby, Dad would Newly accredited Baptist take me and my brother in the car Pastor Gavin Douglas when he visited people who were has a long family history down-and-out,” Gavin said. “They lived their faith in Jesus of serving in God’s in very practical ways.” Kingdom. Gavin and his wife Alana hold similarly strong convictions Gavin’s grandparents, Wilf and about the importance of Beth Douglas, worked for decades exercising their faith in practical learning and recording Aboriginal ways and she whole-heartedly languages from Warburton supports Gavin’s ministry. through to the Northern Territory. “I guess the only difference “For the last few years I’ve for us is that I don’t bring my been working as a chaplain inside work home,” Gavin said. WA’s prisons – Casuarina, Hakea, “We’ve agreed that while we Bandyup and Banksia Hill,” have young children, there won’t Gavin said. be any crossover between work “I can’t tell you how many and home. That may change times prisoners have asked me later.” who I am and, when I tell them I’m Gavin began his personal Wilf Douglas’ grandson, they smile journey of faith with Jesus at age and say ‘I remember Old Wilf’. 17. By 18 he sensed God calling “Who would have thought him to train to be better prepared

my Grandad’s work for all those to minister to people. Photo: Jill Birt years would be helping me so He studied at Vose Seminary Gavin Douglas and his wife Alana have found the work done by his grandparents among Aboriginal people much to connect with Aboriginal before working with Fusion helpful for Gavin’s prison chaplaincy work. inmates.” Australia for a year and was youth Gavin’s parents, Rob and pastor at Como Baptist Church for “I have a strong affinity with into Casuarina Prison and heard “People often come with one Robyn Douglas, have also a further year before focusing his Aboriginal people, so working at someone call his name, only to need but it’s actually something been practicing their faith in energies and gifts on chaplaincy Banksia Hill Detention Centre fits find it was an Aboriginal man different.” very practical ways in Western work in Western Australia’s prison with me.” who had lived next door to the Gavin is very comfortable Australia’s country towns, system. Gavin talked about how his Douglas family in country WA. working with a wide range of including Carnarvon, Derby “Eighty percent of the inmates history helps him forge bonds Gavin has continued to people from white collar workers and Geraldton. Both are now on at Banksia Hill are Aboriginal with those he ministers to, such build strong relationships with to homeless men. the staff of Maida Vale Baptist guys from all over the state,” as one day early in his work as a Aboriginal men during his time “The greatest joy for me is Church. Gavin said. prison chaplain when he walked as chaplain. seeing someone experiencing the “It’s so humbling to be taught hope of a brighter future; seeing Aboriginal language day by day the seeds of belief in themselves,” by an older Aboriginal man in Gavin said. Casuarina. “It’s empowering him “It’s humbling to see Karen people sing for God to teach me,” Gavin said. committed Christians inside our “I sense God has gifted me prisons discipling people to live with discernment.” for Jesus.” the vibrancy of grateful hearts responding to God’s faithfulness and generosity was evident in their song. Three families made the Camping with Kev initial trek to the Great Southern and rented homes in Katanning to take up work at a local abattoir. Baptist Churches Western Australia has taken a Today about 80 Karen fresh approach to its camping program with the people attend the church and appointment of Kevin Black as its new Baptist Camps several families have bought homes in Katanning where the Coordinator.

Photo: Jill Birt young people are confident Young people from the Katanning Karen Baptist Church travelled to English speakers and doing well Kevin brings a wealth of well as praying for him and the Perth to sing at the BCWA Annual Assembly. at their local primary and high experience and training to the one camping ministry, churches can schools. year contract role. show their support by sending The Karen people place a With a background in high their young people and youth high value on music, poetry and school physical education and leaders to camps. Three-and-a-half years on from re-settling in art, giving unique opportunities school chaplaincy, Kevin’s work as “Kev’s heart to see young regional WA and establishing the Katanning for song writers, musicians, a youth pastor will help ensure the people be activated in faith and Karen Baptist Church, 20 young people from singers, dancers and artists to program’s future sustainability and service to God will be a strong asset express their faith in Jesus in its focus on developing a healthy as we seek God’s purpose for the the Burmese congregation made the trip back to vibrant ways. camping ministry is maintained. future of CYYA Baptist Camping,”, Perth last month to celebrate becoming official The Katanning Karen “Initially we’ll focus on the he said. members of Baptist Churches Western Australia Baptist Church cooperates well Inters and Juniors camps in Kevin believes camping has (BCWA). with Katanning Baptist Church January and July, working with the significant value in leadership and is honoured and applauded existing team leaders,” Kevin said. development and acts as an by the local Katanning “Then I’ll look at ‘what happens important source of ongoing The delegation gave a vocal Prior to their arrival in community for their successful next’ − when young people support at local churches. performance at BCWA’s Australia, the group had fled their integration into the country graduate from Inters.” “Camps are life changing,” Annual Assembly at Yokine homeland and existed for years in town. “There are already events and Kevin said. Baptist Church testifying refugee camps on the Thai-Burma Jairus Maung and Breena programs in place so I’ll be looking “Young people make lifelong God’s faithfulness and border. Benny are pastors of the at where the camping ministry fits friendships, develop skills and have Australia’s welcome to the Despite their first hand congregation and Soe Pwell in with this age group.” experiences which are significant group. experience of loss and suffering, Moo Kwa is the secretary. Craig Palmer welcomed Kevin in shaping their future.” to the new role, saying that as 6 news

NOVEMBER 2013

Pray for the people The green army help Leavers Photo: Leavers Green Team Green Team 2012 volunteers making friends with Leavers.

With this year’s Leavers week almost upon us, the Leavers Green Team is counting down the days until things kick off in Dunsborough on 25 November.

Photo: Global Interaction Earning its name from their 2005 and their combined The Bengali people from Bangladesh are one of the people groups Global Interaction is focusing on during the distinctly coloured tops, the presence with other agencies Just Prayer Australia-wide event in November. Green Team is a small ‘army’ has contributed to a 96 of up to 200 volunteers from percent reduction in arrests “Soaking prayer, consistent mostly Baptist churches, and a 58 percent reduction in and faithful prayer, is shown including past Leavers costs incurred for repairs and Passionate prayer, worship and music are top of to be a significant factor volunteering as their way to clean-up. the bill for a special gathering of people from WA’s in emerging people group give something back. “It’s great to feel the buzz Baptist churches this month aimed at raising movements where large numbers The Green Team within the volunteers as of people from a particular volunteers arrive a week they work within The Zone,” awareness of ways to help the world’s least reached people group meet Jesus across before the event to help set up, Michelle said. people groups. the world.” then oversee the running of “They all have such a Just Prayer will be held at a nightly entertainment area willingness to help out.” Of the 16,000 people groups murals, prayer stones and flags, Lakeside Recreation Centre called The Zone, a drug and “It’s also great when around the globe, Australian water prayers and string tying.” in North Lake on Saturday alcohol free environment that Leavers come up and say cross-cultural mission agency “There’s going to be plenty 9 November from 7.00pm. provides a safer place for up to ‘thank you’. That is why we Global Interaction said more of hands-on things to do as well For more information, email 8,000 Leavers to celebrate. do it − so we can help the than 7,000 are considered least as opportunities for reflective [email protected]. Leavers Green Team Leavers have a safe and fun reached, where less than one intercession.” Coordinator Michelle Smoker experience.” percent of their populations “We’re expecting groups said they had been involved in For more information, visit follow Jesus and Christians from churches across the Perth the Dunsborough event since www.greenteamwa.org.au. in nearby areas are not region to come on the night.” reaching them. Rachel said people will also Just Prayer is a national four be praying for workers to prepare, day event being staged by the then go and work among the least agency as a time of passionate reached peoples. and focused prayer for the Currently 97 percent of world’s least reached peoples. Christian workers and resources Global Interaction’s Young are concentrated on the third Adults Consultant in Western of the world who already call Australian Rachel Philp invited themselves Christian. groups from churches across Jill Birt, an advocate for a the Perth region to attend the least reached group in Indonesia, event which she promised said 40 percent of the world’s would not be an ‘eyes closed, population had never heard the heads bowed’ time for ‘super- story of Jesus and why He came saints’ to list their requests to earth. from God. “The church worldwide “We’ll start with music has dedicated less than one and worship then spend some percent of Christian workers and time praying for least reached resources to share with them,” people groups using a number Jill said. of creative prayer stations set up “There is so much injustice in around the place,” Rachel said. these statistics, and sometimes “There will be new ways to we can pray for years before explore prayer using tools and there is tangible progress.” aids other cultures often use in “Praying isn’t seen as an prayer, such as prayer beads, exciting pastime – I think our prayer trees, creating prayer view needs to change.” sportsfest 7

NOVEMBER 2013 Teams rise above adversity Photo: Terry Hicks The Woodvale Baptist Church team accepts the overall winner’s trophy at this year’s Sportsfest.

Event organiser Michelle while Como Baptist Church won and got runners-up in some other Smoker said a new sport on this the ‘small church’ category. Teams sports. Early spring rain did nothing to dampen competitor year’s program was three-on- with fewer numbers are selected “It was amazing when they enthusiasm at the annual Sportsfest held at Australind three basketball. for the ‘small church’ grouping on announced we’d won – our guys in Western Australia’s South-West over the recent “There was a huge response arrival based alternative criteria to went crazy!” and the competition was fierce,” even the playing field. The group shared mobile September long weekend. she said. Woodvale first entered phone footage of the trophy Event director Jeff Cross from Sportsfest in 1997 and came close presentation with the entire With 31 teams this year churches, often producing very Morley Baptist Church managed to winning in 2010 when they had Woodvale Baptist Church’s comprising 1,200 competitors aged strong teams. most of the programming fixtures 110 members in their team. Kieran congregation at the following 16 to 28 years and 113 volunteers, After several years competing which ranged from Connect Four Taylor led this year’s winning Sunday morning service so the event presents significant in a combined church team, and chess in the games division to Woodvale team to a jubilant everyone could experience the logistical challenges. Beaumaris Baptist Church this hockey and netball sports. victory. team’s elation. Smaller country churches year entered an individual team for The Sportsfest overall winner “Sportsfest is brilliant,” “If it wasn’t for the volunteers, occasionally partner with city the first time. was Woodvale Baptist Church, Kieran said. it just wouldn’t happen,” “We had 60 team members Kieran said. and nine volunteers this year, and “We can’t thank them enough.” some of us invited friends to join This year’s Sportsfest t-shirts our team for the weekend. We and banner design competitions Como celebrate victory were so excited to win. were both won by North Beach “We put people in teams Baptist Church with their catchy at Como, but a couple of youth/ with their friends and ended up phrase ’The Saviour who loved ... young adult leaders,” Michael winning bocce, tennis, Scrabble Despicable me’. said. Advocate Ad WorshipCo_oct13O.pdf 1 21/10/13 1:06 PM “Pastor Phil Smoker would love to be able to say he is a ‘youth’ful pastor and filled in for our winning Frisbee team!” The core team was from the young adult group at Como Baptist Church with some extras who had attended the Como church in the past, a couple who had been to a C

Photo: Como Baptist Church previous Sportsfest with the M

Como champions celebrating their Sportsfest win. group and a couple of new Y faces. CM “Our greatest successes came in indoor cricket, MY

Como Baptist Church sent a team of seven girls, ultimate Frisbee and male CY indoor soccer,” Michael said. 14 guys, three volunteers and a few ‘cheerers’ to CMY “Everyone said they had Sportsfest 2013, the eighth time the church has K heaps of fun!” competed in the event, this year led by Michael “The victory really helped Welten and Liam Austen. the young adults to bond over the experience and be able to The team spirit was strong for with everyone else on the team at celebrate our time together.” a small team and almost all some point. the competitors played a sport “We don’t have a youth pastor

10 sportsfest

NOVEMBER 2013 Sportsfest closes in style Photo: Josh Blackwell After a full day of competitions, Sportsfest participants had enough energy to dance before the Sunday night program.

‘Jesus’ invitation to enter and Baptist Churches Western Sportsfest participate in the Kingdom Australia Director of Ministries Feeding pizza to 1,200 hungry athletes might of God – God’s dream for the Mark Wilson also reflected on results sound like a logistical nightmare, but the world come true’. the evening. organisers of this year’s Sunday night program at “There was a sense during “I was impressed with the Big Church the worship and teaching skill of the young leaders of Woodvale 426 Sportsfest handled the job without a hitch. of making space for God to the Sunday night event as they stir hearts and call people took the crowd from exuberant Lake Joondalup 392 DJ Cornflake kept the music worship gathering, it was a new to Himself – and we are excitement to a reflective Riverton 371 pumping as the competitors experience and an opportunity praying that the fruit of these space where many seriously Gosnells 351 danced away their pizza- to show respect for the encounters will be seen for communed with God,” he said. Beaumaris 344 fuelled energy while the stage obviously deeply held beliefs of many years to come,” Dan said. Youth leaders from Baptist Lakeside 312 was set for a live band to lead many at Sportsfest. “Over a dozen people made churches all over the state are the Sunday night worship Vose Seminary honours a first time faith commitment continuing to follow up with Mt Pleasant 304 gathering. student Dan McGrechan with many more taking and explore faith and spiritual Albany 302 For those who have had shared his experience as a significant steps toward deeper journey with those who Christian Reformed 292 little contact with a Christian youth pastor and spoke about faith and obedience. responded at Sportsfest. North Beach 269 St Matthew’s Anglican 227 Bentley 225 Carey 220 Mt Barker 202 - INTERS - Youth Ellenbrook 196 Girrawheen 180 Summer Camp 2014 Rockingham 179 2nd - 6th January Small Church Como 530 Quinns 426 Mandurah 329 Yokine 328

Come along and join The Incredible Race for 2014. Morley 319 Along the way you will join a team for the race East Fremantle 312 events, meet some fantastic people and hear how you can be on God's team for the race of life. Waratah 252 East Victoria Park 248 AGE SCHOOL YEARS 8 -10 $ Lesmurdie 237 COST 275 - EARLY BIRD - before 15th Nov $295 - FULL REGO - 16th Nov onwards City Network 160 Discounts available for families with 3 or more children at either camp info line: 6313 6300 (Dalkeith) Due: Friday 6th December register online: www.baptistwa.asn.au www.facebook.com/BCWAYouth news 11

NOVEMBER 2013 No holiday at Bangkok Hilton

surrounded by cruelty and corruption.” Perth woman and “Many prisoners are very founder of the Hope remorseful and repentant.” Behind Bars Ministry, After realising the importance of a simple letter and what this Ellen Broerse, is means to a prisoner, writing preparing to make her letters to prisoners via pen pals 19th visit to some of became a major part of the Thailand’s worst prisons Ministry’s work. “It brings renewed strength, where she will lead hope and shows them God’s love,” a team of volunteers Ellen said. charged with delivering “Many of their own families a unique Christian have abandoned them and as a result of our letters, many have reach-out program this come to faith.” November. In an unprecedented highlight during her 2012 visit A member of the Claremont to Thailand, five prisoners were Baptist Church, Ellen established baptised at a prison on the remote Hope Behind Bars on the Thai/Burma border. message of Matthew 25:36-40: ‘I “The men were baptised was in prison and you visited me. outside in a barbed wire

What you did for others you did enclosure, surrounded by Photo: Hope Behind Bars for me.’ prisoners and puzzled looking Pastor Howard baptises a prisoner in a Thailand jail. “Prisoners come from third guards,” Ellen said. world countries and are serving “We sensed all the angels people as they visit seven prisons, to buy basics in the prison shop wisdom as we minister to the life sentences for picking up rejoicing at this expression of including the notorious Bang such as toiletries and stationery prisoners.” a parcel of drugs in Bangkok,” faith by these five men.” Kwang or ‘Bangkok Hilton’. as nothing is provided. “We pray for leniency, and she said. “It is a rare privilege to be “Our regular Thai driver “We don’t all have to be softening of the guards’ hearts, “Out of desperation at home, granted inside visits – often we used to be a Buddhist but is now travelling missionaries – we for safety and protection and they chose to drug mule to earn are asked how this Australian a devout Christian and goes can be armchair missionaries that many hearts and lives will a quick dollar. Many only did team gets in when others cannot? into the prisons with us to pray by writing a lifeline letter just be touched through our visit as this once, security was tipped We know God opens these doors and talk with the prisoners,” once every six weeks to make a a token and reflection of God’s off, they were thrown into jail for us.” Ellen said. difference,” Ellen said. love.” and are now suffering under Travelling by mini bus, this Pen pals bless their prisoner “Our team asks for prayers for For more information, visit horrendous circumstances year the team hope to baptise 19 with some finances at Christmas spiritual discernment and Godly www.hopebehindbars.net.

Digging deep for study leave Iceland gospel revival

people David talks with about Late last September far away in Reykjavik, his time in Israel are very Iceland, people were streaming down the aisle curious to learn what he digs up. in response to a Gospel message from Franklin “I tell them ‘Lots!’” David said. Graham. “I found pottery, bones, flint, ashes and seeds on a fairly Tears of joy marked a He’s a native Icelander in his consistent basis.” watershed for what many 40s and he’s seen the state “Even digging up small believe is real hope for a of Icelandic people when it things that are from the middle revival in the island nation. comes to talking about God, or to late Bronze Age (1500 to It normally takes a lot to anything spiritual. 2000 BC) is exciting. Among move Reykjavik local Skuli “There’s a joke here that we the more spectacular finds this Barker to tears, but what he are the ‘Frozen Chosen’,” Skuli season was a room containing witnessed that night in his said. large pots which, although country did it. “But it’s really true – cracked, were found standing He’ll be the first to tell in Iceland, people don’t upright and in relatively good you that emotional outbursts show their feelings. So for condition.“ simply don’t happen in Icelanders to come forward to “In another area, an ivory Iceland. receive Jesus ...”

Photo: David Cohen carving was uncovered in a “My wife was sobbing There was five years’ David Cohen’s ‘office’ for two weeks while in Israel on a dig. wall – probably some kind of next to me,” Skuli said. “And worth of prayer from a core dedication when it was built.” I started to cry – it’s just group of pastors and business “For me, the experience was amazing.” leaders supporting the event. most beneficial for when we talk Initially a few people For nine months, the Vose Seminary’s Head of Biblical Studies and about biblical archaeology in responded to Franklin Iceland Festival of Hope Lecturer in Hebrew Bible and Language Dr David our courses.” Graham’s Gospel message, executive committee Cohen has just returned to Perth after two weeks on “It provided me with helpful and then there were throngs members had been working insights into the process, flooding the stage, elbow to hard preparing for this event. an archaeological dig in Israel. the expertise involved and elbow. “It was like a child has the care that needs to be Hundreds of people been born in many ways,” The time in Israel was just one Gath,” David said. taken in understanding what packed in and the aisles Fesitval of Hope Director component of his study leave “It’s about 20 kilometres archaeology can and cannot clogged with people wanting Ragnar Gunnarsson said. from teaching at Vose Seminary. south west of Jerusalem, provide.” to meet Jesus, wanting to pray “A tremendous experience “The site we were at was Tell overlooking the Elah valley “And just in case you’re out loud. – this is what we have been es Safi, probably better known where David fought Goliath.” wondering, no I didn’t find Skuli isn’t overdramatic. praying for.” to readers of the Bible as ancient Back in Australia, most Goliath’s sword!” 12 in conversation

NOVEMBER 2013 A healthy state of Christianity

Keith Jobberns, National Ministries Director of Australian Baptist Ministries, flew to Perth from Sydney to speak at the Baptist Churches Western Australia Annual Assembly on Saturday 12 October. The Advocate caught up with him during his brief visit.

You talked about the state of the One of the first strengths they cite Baptist churches in Australia. is Christology, what we believe What are statistics saying? about Jesus. In almost every one of We have 960 churches in our churches there is an emphasis Australia with 110 locations on personal commitment to from Kununurra to Esperance in faith and the lordship of Jesus Western Australia. Australia-wide as expressed in baptism. The there are approximately 170,000 centrality of baptism ensures that attendees of Baptist churches, of Baptists are highly committed. I’ve whom 62,700 are formal members. talked with other national church In the national 2011 Census, leaders about this and had some 352,499 identified themselves say they that this is not the case as Baptists. In WA, 41,672 people for them. There are debates over identified themselves as Baptist, an who Jesus is. We don’t have that. increase of 27.3 percent from the Jesus is the core around which 2006 Census. So, we’re the third we gather. He’s the one who has

largest worshipping community changed our lives. This reflects Photo: Jill Birt in Australia: Catholics 1,000,004; in another statistic: 63 percent Anglicans 214,378; Baptists 170,178; of Baptists are at church once a previous 30 years from 1971 to is this gracious call by God to be in lose focus on but we need to Uniting Church of Australia month, compared with just 20 2000. Baptists have made great partnership with His Son our Lord give constant attention, training, 167,000; Pentecostals 148,900. percent of Uniting Church people, efforts to accommodate them. Jesus, empowered by the Holy prayer, and funding to. We need These figures are for people and 9 percent of Anglicans. They have been a major source of Spirit to be about transforming to be bold to experiment and attending at least once a month. our growth and we have provided the destiny of people and their supportive of those who do One of the greatest surprises in So the place of Jesus Christ is them a home. Here in WA, there communities in Australia and experiment. the analysis of the 2011 Census central. Anything else? are already several strong faith beyond. data was to see that the Baptists Secondly is ecclesiology – how communities of refugees from For you personally? were growing faster than almost we gather together. There’s a lot Burma and growing groups of What aspects of preparing God’s Personally, I’m overwhelmed every other denomination – and of flexibility in Baptist churches people of faith from Sudan and people do you see we need to by God’s calling on my life. It’s even faster than the Pentecostals. due to the emphasis on the local other African countries. They’ve focus on? a privilege to be in partnership. Over the years, it has been church − flexibility to try different come to find a safe place and We need to make a sustained I don’t feel worthy, but I have interesting to see many of the things, to be innovative, to adapt they’ve found it in Australia. and concerted effort to equip a strong commitment to live other denominations shrink, but to the needs and interests of the Another development is Christian people to engage with others faithfully to the calling. Lord let the Baptists have continued to local people; and be flexible in schooling. It’s proving to be about their journey of faith as it happen increasingly here in grow about the same rate as the finding the right leadership for the a unique way to engage local we discern where God is at work, WA – new church plants, local population. local congregation. It’s happening communities. WA is a ground- and join the Spirit there. It’s one communities, ethnic groups. right here in the centre of Perth. breaker in the country with a of those things that it’s easy to The Kingdom coming on earth. What do you see as the strengths Bob Touchell leads the inner-city strong network of schools from of Baptist churches in Australia? Perth Baptist Church. They’re Albany to Kalgoorlie and across We have extensive engagement engaging with backpackers who the suburbs of Perth. with the Australian community are in WA on a visa for up to a through the provision of social year. The church’s bible readings What do you see in the future? services by Baptist Care Australia on Sunday mornings are now in The National Church Life and then through Global four languages – English, Korean, Survey (NCLS) has shown over the Interaction and Baptist World Chinese and Japanese. They’re last decade that Baptists are much Aid Australia there’s a significant seeing people meet Jesus and better involved in the community. transformational ministry in seeing lives changed through We have got beyond the walls of places as diverse as Bangladesh, friendship, engaging with God’s the church. However, what the Know God, Share Christ, Care for People Kazakhstan, Malawi, Mozambique, Word, support and meals. I believe NCLS survey also showed was China, Indonesia and the there have been baptisms too. that we seemed to have lost our Philippines. voice. We are less involved in faith Any other distinctives? sharing than we were ten years Trainee or Part Time Are there specific characteristics Hospitality is a strong ago. So here is the challenge: if the of the Baptist churches that are theme. Baptists have been local church is God’s instrument Associate Pastor strengths? hospitable to people of all races to change human history Philip Hughes and Darren and all backgrounds. Migrant [Ephesians 3:10], then all of us in Cronshaw recently published an communities have made a huge church leadership roles need to see www.margaretriverbaptist.org.au e-book called Baptists in Australia: difference over the years. The affirm our commitment to our call A Church with a Heritage and a number of Baptist immigrants to prepare God’s “people for works Future. They’ve done a great job in the last decade 2001 to 2011 of service, so that the body of Contact Pastor Michael Lochore: of distilling the essence of what it was 42,000, which is equivalent Christ may be built up” [Ephesians [email protected] (08) 9757 3881 means to be Baptist in Australia. to all Baptist immigrants in the 4:12]. The great privilege for us all leadership 13

NOVEMBER 2013

1. We must appreciate and respect people if we are By Mark Cole going to ask them to provide feedback on our At The John Maxwell Company, skills, abilities and personal What do you we commonly refer to the idea of characteristics. If we do not the 360 degree leader. John has respect the people around helped people realise everyone us − whether it be across, is a leader because each of us up or down − then we will has the opportunity to lead not be able to constructively think of me? up, lead across and perhaps receive their feedback. lead down. All month, we have 2. We must be secure been discussing the value of in ourselves, while assessment. I want to take a acknowledging room for moment and consider what it growth. This is foundational looks like to apply the 360 degree to being able to go to those concept to assessments. whom we work with and ask The discipline of assessing them to honestly share what is huge. Assessments provide a they see in us and then realistic picture of our strengths receive it. and weaknesses. They allow us 3. We must be intentional to see potential pitfalls, address in asking for individuals them and intentionally live out to participate in the of our strengths. Intuitively, assessment. We must also we understand the value of be intentional about giving assessments − think about how them permission to share we have our houses assessed freely. Understandably, most for safety before moving in, or people are a bit reluctant to how we assess the value of a share anything that could car before making a purchase. be perceived as negative We want to know what we are about a person who is in getting before purchasing – positional authority over this allows us to know what to them and will need clear expect and offers perspective permission to provide on how we can leverage that honest feedback. Your asset in a way that aligns with friends and family may its strengths. In the same way, also struggle with openly we need to subject ourselves to sharing what they perceive assessments so we can learn as your weaknesses. from them and become more Participants must be given desirable employees, co-workers the freedom to share openly and leaders. for you to receive the most To get the best overall picture realistic picture of your of my strengths and weaknesses, current leadership and I try to be systematic in my relational skills. assessments, and have people provide feedback who are at More importantly than different levels of influence in getting feedback from people my life – peers, direct reports is applying that feedback in a and supervisors, to name a few. way that makes us better leaders My family also provides insights and people. If we have made that when combined with my an intentional effort to gain the colleagues’ responses, provide perspectives of those around, when applied to different authority? What does it look like assessments should make us a greater overall picture of my under and above us, then we groups. We need to take the time to those whom work alongside better employees, co-workers strengths and weaknesses. also want to be intentional in to think through this. What will of me? How will I apply what and leaders. In order for us to be willing to applying what we have learned improving my listening skills I learned in my interactions seek and respond to the feedback in a 360 degree manner. (or any particular weakness) with those whom I report to? Used with permission from from those around us we need Improvement in our leadership look like when interacting The changes we make as a The John Maxwell Company, three things. skills may take different forms with those who are under my result of what we learn through www.johnmaxwell.com.

Sail or power boats?

The Bible is full of characters keynote speakers challenged strategic plans and independent want to run and assign these who misunderstood what the 5,000 delegates to examine power sources to get God’s responsibilities to others. What One of the joys God was doing, felt alone at their inner dreams, aspirations work done. the Bible teaches us is that, of college life at times and who made dubious and goals The speaker asked Michael Quicke’s address at unlike much secular leadership Vose Seminary is decisions under pressure, But each leader to seriously consider Vose’s 50th year celebrations today, success isn’t just around nonetheless, God was able whether or not they were resonates with this message of the corner. But our obedience, our Community to weave the threads of life sailboats under the direction of sail and power boats. Michael coupled with feelings of despair Wednesdays, where we together into amazing stories the Holy Spirit, or powerboats reminded us that we can make and frustration, can lead to the all give attention to the that impacted many beyond fuelled by their own efforts and plans, but we must leave the extension of the Kingdom. foundation stones of their immediate lives, families ambitions – who was setting the results up to God. We cannot Maybe the study of mission and communities. Many of the direction? The speaker’s main manage and dictate to the Holy should be called ‘messy-ology’ our spiritual journeys. ministries we see in the pages of point was that he saw too many Spirit our desired outcomes. and not missiology? Scripture were ‘by assignment’ human-inspired visions and not All we do must be under the It struck me again this week, as not ‘by choice’. As I look at enough mission work under the direction and in the power of Lloyd Porter I taught a leadership workshop my own 20 years in Christian inspiration of the Holy Spirit. the Holy Spirit. Director, Vose Mission; based around the lives of the ministry, it appears that all the We have so many resources In the general chaos of Evangelism and Mission at leaders in the Old Testament, good and fruitful things came available to us today, and I life and ministry, this may Vose Seminary. just how many of them struggled by assignment and not by wonder how many of our result in each one of us being with doubt or depression and choice. mission plans and dreams are called and assigned tasks longed for God to use someone During a major mission really being blown along by without our consent and not else in lieu of them … ‘Here I am conference in Cape Town the Spirit? We have become by choice. And like the Old Lord, send him or her …’ (Lausanne 2010), one of the very good at creating our own Testament characters, we will 14 the facts

NOVEMBER 2013

events calendar We want to get to November December know you 8 to 11 Just Prayer, Global Interaction, 1 December Disability Service for International November www.globalinteraction.org.au/ Day of People with Disability, You can control the content just-prayer.aspx Yangebup Baptist Church, 0423 918 009 we publish. 9 November Just Prayer – Unearthed, 7pm Lakeside Recreation Centre, 3 December International Day of People with 6313 6300 a Disability

10 November Baptist Historical Society AGM 5 December International Volunteer Day ‘Women in Pastoral Ministry in WA’, 2.30pm, Como Baptist 12 and 13 Rumpelstiltskin, 12 noon and 7pm, Church, 9384 5460 December Austin Cove Baptist College, 9537 7177 16 November Diversity and Unity workshop with Luke14: Disability inclusive 15 December Carols, 5pm to 7.30pm, Christian communities, Lesmurdie Scarborough Baptist Church, Baptist Church, 9291 9866 9245 1491

17 November Making Disciples of All: Faith 22 December IGA Carols by Candlelight, Connections for Adults with Supreme Court Gardens Intellectual Disability, Luke14: Disability inclusive Christian January communities, 9387 1304 27 to 31 AMUC 2014 (Among the Urban One way you can do this is by advising 23 November High Tea in the Garden, Lesmurdie January Community), 0416 118 185 The Advocate editorial team your needs and Baptist Church, 9291 9866 2 to 6 January Inters Summer Camp 2014, preferences. 23 November Fundraising for Syrian refugees, Serpentine Camping Centre Scarborough Baptist Church, For your chance to win a Koorong gift 0403 839 558 7 to 11 January Juniors Summer Camp 2014, Serpentine Camping Centre voucher complete our online readership 25 to 28 Leavers 2013, Dunsborough, November www.greenteamwa.org.au survey at http://theadvocate.questionpro.com

To find your local Baptist -JUNIORS- church visit Summer Camp 2014 www.baptistwa.asn.au 7th - 11th January

Come along and join The Incredible Race for 2014. Along the way you will join a team for the race events, meet some fantastic people and hear how you can be on God's team for the race of life.

AGE SCHOOL YEARS 4 -7 COST $265 - EARLY BIRD - before 15th Nov $285 - FULL REGO - 16th Nov onwards info line: 6313 6300 Discounts available for families with 3 or more children at either camp www.facebook.com/BCWAChildren register online: www.baptistwa.asn.au Due: Friday 6th December

The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia by imageseven. Tel: (08) 9221 9777 Email: [email protected]

Editor: Terry Hicks EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING: Publishers General Disclaimer Managing Editor: Brad Entwistle Email: [email protected] All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by Sub Editor: Jill Birt [email protected] way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person Writer: Alison Amos Mail: Baptist Churches who obtains this publication should act on the basis of any matter, comment or advice Production: Vanessa Klomp Western Australia contained in this publication without first considering and if necessary taking appropriate professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their Graphic Design: Catherine Bartlett PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the Advertising: Liesl Larmour Tel: (08) 6313 6300 authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. Distribution: Liesl Larmour Fax: (08) 9470 1713 Editorial deadline: 5th of each month imageseven bcw P1150 intermission 15

NOVEMBER 2013

app review watch & listen

The Jesus Storybook Home Run Trade of Innocents Bible Baseball all-star Cory Brand This harrowing yet hopeful The multiple award-winning The knows what it takes to win in the film highlights the sufferings iSingWorship Jesus Storybook Bible; written by big leagues. But off the field, with of young girls from Southeast iSingWorship is an iPhone and iPad app which is ideal for small Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated his past memories still haunting Asia caught up in the sordid churches, small groups and children’s churches where musical by Jago, comes to life as short him, his life spirals out of control. and dangerous world of human resources are limited. animated stories. Narrated by With an unexpected second trafficking. Dermot Mulroney (My After downloading the free app, songs are available for in-app British actor David Suchet, this chance, Cory finds himself on Best Friend’s Wedding) and Mira purchase at $2.99 each. The app allows the user to removal the volume one DVD contains the a powerful journey of change Sorvino play a married couple vocals, repeat a chorus, end by going back to verse 1, break down first 11 stories from the Old and redemption. Based on true working to end this trade in into a quiet instrumental section to talk or pray over, or sing a Testament. With four volumes stories, Home Run is a reminder human misery. chorus with just the drums playing. The app is compatible with in the series, this animated that with God, it is never too late. Apple AirPlay so that lyrics can be easily displayed on a TV or expression of the Bible tells the projector. age old stories in a modern, All songs in the library have been recorded in the most contemporary way. congregation friendly keys possible. Songs can also be played back in several alternative keys making the app useful for a wide variety of different situations. win read Pocket Inspirations: Faith

A lovely hard cover gift edition book which will encourage your heart and increase your faith, no matter the season you find yourself in. ‘Faith allows you to delight in life since you have placed your needs in God’s hands.’ ‘The Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.’ [Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB]

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NOVEMBER 2013 Carey launches Right Track

Jet-lagged after his long journey from Texas, Kyle White arrived in Perth for the launch of the Right Track Foundation at Carey Baptist College in late September.

Kyle spoke about his 16 years as a Stanford University track coach in San Francisco, California, where he trained Olympians Tyson Gay and Veronica Campbell-Brown. “When you’re working with athletes of their calibre, you don’t coach, you guide,” Kyle said. As well as attending the Right Track Foundation launch, Kyle travelled North with Right Track Foundation chairman Graeme Watson and several Carey Baptist College students to participate in the Geraldton Athletics Clinics held for aspiring student athletes in the Mid West and Pilbara regions. Graeme, also teacher at Carey Baptist College and a coach at the Cannington Central Athletics Track Club, said the Geraldton Clinics were one of the Foundation’s inaugural projects aimed at linking rural and remote

to city, Aboriginal to non- Photo: Jill Birt Aboriginal youth, and to develop Geraldton coach Jacko Whitby, Right Track Foundation board member Matt Izett and USA coach Kyle White met for the first time at the launch of the strength, conditioning and track Right Track Foundation at Carey Baptist College. and field skills. “We want to empower and “He’s such a genuine guy – world and prepares them to serve This is intended to help them fully About 40 people attended the provide opportunities for youth to what you see is what you get. He in their communities. immerse themselves in College Foundation’s September launch, serve,” Graeme said. doesn’t have any hidden agendas.” A third project sponsors educational, social and co- including Carey Baptist College “And we’re working at The Foundation is currently corporate scholarships to Carey curricular activities . Directors Matt and Julie Izett, developing relationships with working on four other projects. Baptist College for Aboriginal The final project is an eight- and board members Dr Carolyn remote communities such as Every second year during student athletes heading towards week athletics program held each Montgomery, Nickeisha Hodder Newman.” the July school holidays, the university pathways, providing year in late spring at Banksia and Alanna Doig. Working with legendary local Foundation plans to send them with opportunities to reach Hill Detention Centre, aimed Other guests included coach Jacko Whitby, the clinics students to the Stanford Track their academic potential. at promoting healthy lifestyle College Principal Rowan Clark, ran from Friday to Monday during and Field Camp in California as Another project supports choices, building relationships Carey Baptist Community the middle week of the spring an inspirational and educational Aboriginal students in a family and providing positive role Church Senior Pastor David school holidays. opportunity for teens. It allows environment with two other models, and cultivating a sense of Kilpatrick, and Banksia Hill “Working with Graeme is them to participate in the best peers, a mentor and house parents worth and hope with the youth at Detention Centre Chaplain great,” Jacko said. student athlete program in the while they are studying at Carey. Banksia Hill. Gavin Douglas.