Dear Member, this year: make the strangers welcome. Let them feel so at home I have been privileged to visit many congregations across the British that they will want to return! Isles, and at each I have been received with genuine warmth, love and Hebrews puts it like this: ‘Do not forget to entertain strangers, for hospitality. I suppose that my face is too well-known for me to travel by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing and visit incognito; therefore I am never treated as a ‘normal’ visitor. it.’ (Hebrews 13:2, NIV.) On many of these visits, Jennifer, my wife, has been with me to Can you imagine a visiting angel returning home – to Heaven – enjoy this special experience. When she arrives at a church ‘on my with this message: ‘Jesus, they’re very close-knit and loving down arm’, everyone knows who she is. She is the president’s wife. there – to each other, that is! – like one big, exclusive family!’ Jennifer and I have talked about this warmth and hospitality – it’s Fortunately, the angel won’t lose faith over a bit of unfriendliness. great – but she doesn’t always experience it. There are times when But what about the ‘prodigal’ who is back for the first time in she attends church on her own – unrecognised – and things are decades? He has scraped up the courage to come back, but will he different. want to stay on? This is not a complaint; merely a desire that every congregation Our for all of us – the entire BUC – is that we will be eager treat all its ‘strangers’ to the same warmth, friendliness and hospitality and ready to make the strangers welcome this year! that a president receives. With Christian love In fact, Jennifer and I have a simple wish for all our congregations Pastor Ian Sweeney, BUC president

‘Jesus, they’re very close-knit and loving down there – to each other, that is! – like one big, exclusive family!’ 2 editorial 3

Happy New Year ‘I love it when a plan comes together!’ That’s a catchphrase you’ve probably heard or used As I type, Christmas is still three before. It was popularised by the fictional ‘I love it when a plan weeks away, but by the time you’re Colonel John ‘Hannibal’ Smith (George reading this, it will be 2013 . . . ! But IPeppard) in a 1980s television series called Julian Hibbert I trust you have all enjoyed your The A-Team. comes together!’ Editor break and are now looking forward to I’ve seen those words come true on a what 2013 has to offer. number of occasions during my ministry – Can I draw your attention to the often in the face of really daunting odds. Let the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.’ Genesis 1:1, 2, NIV. cover photo on your Directory of me share one with you, to encourage us as That’s right! The very first snapshot we have of God reveals Him turning chaos into creation. Churches 2013.* This picture was we take our first tentative steps into 2013. Bit by bit, during those 72 hours, He hovered over our chaos, gently guiding the shambles submitted for Megapixels by John into shape. Butters, so if you would like to see It was ‘shambolic’! your pictures in print, send your Generally Adventists are good event The translation booths nature photography, like the organisers, but I have seen some exceptions. Then on the Friday, the representative approached me in desperation – those landscape on this page, taken by None, however, was more ‘shambolic’ than who had promised to construct the translation booths . . . couldn’t handle the task! Could I do one of Hope Channel’s early evangelistic something to help? Barry Allen; also of wildlife, water, broadcasts from Africa. For some ‘ungodly’ I thought for a moment – then a name flashed into my mind. ‘But Lord, he lives close-ups and flowers. reason, the local churches in this city – most 40-odd miles out of the city. How’s he going to do this on his own? And you know he can’t start Send them in to me at: of the clergy and some of the members – till tomorrow night – after Sabbath!’ [email protected]. weren’t taking the event seriously enough. Sometimes, it is not so much what God seems to suggest that convinces me to do the Just remember to keep them ‘hi-res’. This was groundbreaking outreach. We improbable; it’s those long, pregnant silences that follow! Happy snapping! were to broadcast Dr Les Pollard live, to a vast I phoned the member, who is a builder – a qualified electrician too. ‘I’ll be there after Sabbath, DAVID BELL, MESSENGER DESIGNER international audience, every night for three Pastor. Don’t worry, I’ll sort it out for you.’ He did, and on time! weeks! What were the implications of his eleventh-hour availability? Hundreds of thousands across To see more of your images, go to: For this we had hired one of the city’s Africa heard Dr Pollard preach our message in their mother tongue. Didn’t I tell you that God is a http://adventistwebministries-org-uk. largest auditoriums – but exams were to be Pro when it comes to chaos management! *Pictures sent in to us for Megapixels adventist.eu/megapixels held there until three days before we were to may be used by us at our discretion on go live! That meant that we had to build the The translator other projects. stage decor; set up all the audio, visual and The news that there would be no Portuguese translator was a serious blow to the programme. lighting equipment; build soundproof booths For throughout Angola and Mozambique, churches had invested in those large dishes for a dozen translators (each with its own TV and special decoders needed for the broadcasts. They had also bought screens and digital and audio links); install the broadcasting unit; projectors. The advertising had reached their friends and neighbours, and many souls were and test everything . . . in less than 72 hours – now potentially at risk of missing our message. What an embarrassment for the Church. with a Sabbath in the middle! Then, just one week before the series began, I noticed a new family in church. At the door Then, to top it all, we were told that the the visitor introduced himself as Fausto da Silva, born and raised in Mozambique – with a pukka Portuguese-speaking territories were not Portuguese accent! Diabetes Epidemic’, Medical News Today, MediLexicon, Intl., sending a translator any more! I felt a tingle down my spine. The ‘Spirit of God was hovering’ over our chaos and something 2 December 2012.) This was ‘mega-daunting’ stuff – prowling inside me reverently said: ‘I love it when a plan comes together!’ Why so much concern about fructose? Well, ordinary table through my thoughts at night, robbing me of sugar comprises sucrose, which comes from sugar cane or sleep. They were searching sugar beet. Sucrose contains equal amounts of both fructose and Carol da Silva had grown up an Adventist. Now her husband wanted to know more too. He was glucose. High-fructose corn syrup contains more fructose, however, Check His CV earnestly searching for truth – but he was a Roman Catholic. How could he solve our problem? which makes it much sweeter. It is this level of sweetness which helps But I was about to learn that God handles Believe it or not, he did! After I had visited with him and assessed the situation, I offered him stabilise processed foods. chaos like a pro. That He actually thrives on the responsibility of translating the evangelistic series into his native language – each night for Additionally, food companies commonly use HFCS in soft drinks and shambolic situations. Do you remember how the next three weeks! He sat stunned for a while, then said: ‘I don’t have a Portuguese Bible – to improve the appearance of some of their processed foods, like baked His CV starts? where can we get one?’ goods, as it allows for a more consistent browning which is considered ‘In the beginning God created the heavens That was his way of saying ‘Yes!’ And so Fausto – an industrial pharmacist – became more appealing to consumers. and the earth. Now the earth was formless God’s voice to the eager ears of thousands in Angola and Mozambique. He didn’t have a day’s On assessing the study results, co-author Stanley Ulijaszek, director and empty, darkness was over the surface of theological training to his credit, not even a baptismal certificate, but he became a successful of the Institute of Social and Cultural Anth ropology from the University part of our satellite outreach – and a Seventh-day Diabetes link with high- of Oxford, shares this insight: ‘Many people regard fructose as a Adventist! Vivid proof that God is able to turn the healthy natural sugar from fruit, and that’s true. Natural fructose found direst circumstances to our advantage – if we are fructose corn syrup in fruit, for example, is fine: the 10g or so of fructose in an apple is willing to trust Him. probably released slowly because of the fibre within the apple and Like Colonel John ‘Hannibal’ Smith, God also The global epidemic of type 2 diabetes has come under scrutiny in because the fructose is inside the cells of the apple.’ He further loves it ‘when a plan comes together’! So why some new research. The joint UK/USA study by researchers from the explains, however, that ‘there is evidence that the body struggles to not trust Him with your plans for 2013? Universities of Oxford and Southern California found that in countries metabolise a large amount of fructose that does not come from fruit, with a high intake of the food sweetener, fructose corn syrup, a 20% and there is a risk for type 2 diabetes,’ because ‘fructose and sucrose In memoriam . . . higher proportion of their population had diabetes in comparison are not metabolically equivalent’. Although it may not seem that way, I wrote this with countries that had a low fructose corn syrup uptake. Forty-two These findings led Ulijaszek to conclude: ‘This research suggests editorial with a heavy heart. For, a few days countries, including the UK and USA, were involved in the study. that high-fructose corn syrup can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, earlier, on 23 November (2012), while on his Quoted in Medical News Today, lead author and researcher Michael which is one of the most common causes of death in the world today.’ way home to spend Sabbath with his family, Goran, professor of preventive medicine at the Keck School of Medicine As a result, these researchers are calling for better labelling of Fausto was killed in a car accident. His wife at USC, says: ‘HFCS consumption may result in negative health fructose and HFCS content in foods and beverages. Carol and their three sons now face the consequences distinct from and more deleterious than natural sugar.’ abominable chaos that sudden and tragic death (Catharine Paddock PhD, ‘High-Fructose Corn Syrup Fuelling Type 2 Good health! causes. Please remember them in your . 4 the Berean column 5 mind, and sitting listening to Jesus? It seems to me that his community had with Andrew Puckering devotional accepted his troubled life as normal for him, Seventh-day a state from which there was no hope of healing. They had bound themselves into Adventist believing that this man was beyond help, and Mercy or death? so to see him changed and in his right mind Association Ltd The king of Israel was hopping mad! He was was frightening for them. so angry with the prophet Elisha that he said, (SDAA) ‘God do so to me and more also, if the head Application of Elisha the son of Shaphat remains on him Who really has In my work and life, I have met many people today’ (2 Kings 6:31, NKJV) – in other words, by Steve Okelo, SDAA treasurer who are bound physically, emotionally, ‘May God kill me if I let Elisha live!’ What on earth and spiritually. People incarcerated by What a Sabbath! could have made the king so angry? conditions in which they find themselves. It’s a Sabbath morning. You’ve put on your best clothes; dressed the The king in question isn’t named in 2 Kings chapter 6, Although free from the human penal children; and had breakfast together. but the events in this chapter take place between the death the problem? system, regretfully they are imprisoned in You leave for the church on time; the traffic is calm; and the little of Ahaziah son of Ahab and the accession of Jehu son a far more cruel prison. passengers at the back are on their best behaviour – for a change! of Nimshi (2 Kings 1:17; 9:14-26). We may therefore These people endure the chains of by Pastor Ian Sweeney, BUC president But at church things change suddenly. The gate is still locked – confidently assume that he is Jehoram (or ‘Joram’), son of depression, anxiety, and low or no self-esteem. heavily chained and padlocked. Harsh signs warn the milling Ahab and brother of Ahaziah, and one of those kings who Some, whom I have met, are on the ‘death members not to ‘trespass’. Voices are raised! Tempers flare! could have been worse, but was far from perfect (2 Kings Introduction mental health clinician, but when I read this row’ of deadly narcotics, alcohol, and The uniformed security guard moves menacingly forward while 3:1-3). He had taken Elisha along when he joined King There is a story in the New Testament that, story, I was led to ask myself this question: Is careless, unsafe, and uninhibited sexual his German shepherd snarls at the crowd. Jehoshaphat of Judah and the king of Edom to suppress while 2,000 years old, has a relevance that it still true today, that we prefer to sedate activity. Another sign reads ‘Private property – no access’. One of the the rebellion of the Moabites (2 Kings 1:1; 3:4-9). When still endures. Jesus was with His followers, ‘problem people’ so we can manage them, These people are being held captive behind deaconesses points to it and calls out: ‘This is our church! We saved the expedition ran out of water, Jehoram panicked and having sailed across a lake called Galilee. On rather than working towards their full seemingly impenetrable bars and inescapable for years, prayed and fasted – oooh Lord, have mercy!’ pronounced their doom (2 Kings 3:10). Elisha, seriously disembarking from His boat, the story recounts recovery? walls, being made to believe that this is all Other members shout and shake their fists: ‘This is wrong! We unimpressed, quoted Jehoram’s words back at him, suggested that Jesus was met by a very troubled man: Maybe iron chains and sedation were the there is to life, and that there is no way out. he run back to his parents’ idols, and said he wouldn’t even have ‘When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met easiest option for a community that did not own this property. Let us in!’ Curious neighbours join the crowd. More members arrive. So looked at him if Jehoshaphat hadn’t been around (2 Kings 3:13, 14); by a demon-possessed man from the town. want to spend the time, effort, money and Conclusion does a van full of Metropolitan Police. ‘Let’s get the children back in although with God’s help he did get them out of trouble (2 Kings For a long time this man had not worn clothes resources on people considered to be This New Testament story tells us, however, the cars,’ someone suggests. 3:15-24). or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs’ embarrassing, dangerous or just too much that there is hope for them . . . for us . . . no You tug at the deaconess’s arm: ‘Aunty, what happened? Why Later on, Elisha had to give Jehoram further help – first, when (Luke 8:27, NIV) ‘. . . and no one could bind like hard work? matter what demon seeks to be the jailer! can’t we get inside?’ Jehoram panicked over the healing of Naaman (2 Kings 5:5-8); and him anymore, not even with a chain. For he Jesus intervened in this man’s life – ‘You know, after all these years we were able to put enough second, with avoiding Syrian attacks (2 Kings 6:8-12). When the had often been chained hand and foot, but he A troubled community changed it for the better, brought him hope, money together; bought this church; then we voted to put the Syrians got wise to this and tried to get at Elisha, Elisha asked God tore the chains apart and broke the irons on Without a doubt, the man of this story was even gave him a mission in life. Likewise, we ownership title in the name of our trusted head elder. Now he’s to blind them; brought them to Israel’s capital city, Samaria; and his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue troubled – but it seems to me that he was a can move on from being troubled communities upset because he wasn’t re-elected and he has kicked us out!’ Her restored their sight, right in front of King Jehoram’s eyes (2 Kings him. Night and day among the tombs and in troubled man in a troubled community. The to transforming ones! voice chokes and tears flow freely down her cheeks. 6:13-20)! the hills he would cry out and cut himself with origin of the man’s problems was super - I celebrate the efforts of all of you who, like Jehoram, duly impressed, asked Elisha if he should kill them stones.’ (Mark 5:3-5, NIV.) natural. The Bible states that he was Jesus, make a positive impact on the lives of Could this happen in your congregation? (2 Kings 6:21). Elisha, however, knew that the LORD is a God of possessed by demonic forces, and for this those who are troubled and struggling. Keep Yes! If you are not careful, it can. That is one of the reasons we have mercy (Genesis 24:27; 39:21; Exodus 15:13), ‘keeping mercy for The man’s problems reason Jesus exorcised the demons from his up your excellent work! our Seventh-day Adventist Association (SDAA), the legal body that thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin’ (Exodus This man had serious, long-standing problems, mind. Once He had done this, the holds titles in trust on behalf of our Church in the British Isles. 34:7, NKJV). The very place where God met Moses and spoke to as clearly evidenced by the following: story goes on to recount: This body has served the Church here for more than 106 years, him, the covering of the ark of the covenant, was called the ‘mercy • He lived among the dead – he had made the ‘. . . the people went out to see and holds legal titles to most of the church buildings and property seat’ (Exodus 25:17-22, NKJV). Killing prisoners of war out-of-hand cemetery his home. what had happened. When they within the British Union Conference (BUC). For example: when a was not His way, and Elisha told Jehoram to make them a feast and • Even though he lived among the dead, he came to Jesus, they found the man church or school is bought or sold, the legal arrangements are made send them home instead (2 Kings 6:22, 23). seemed to show them little respect by from whom the demons had gone on behalf of the church by the SDAA. The same should also apply to Were the Syrians grateful? No. They returned in force and walking around naked all the time. out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed all rental agreements that we might become involved in. besieged Samaria, causing a famine so dire that donkeys’ heads • The man was self-harming, as testified in and in his right mind; and they and dove droppings were sold for silver. The city that had given his tortured screams that could be heard were afraid. Those who had seen Varied roles them a feast, they caused to starve. Mothers were arguing about throughout his community. it told the people how the demon- The department (SDAA) also assists our various conference and whose children to eat next (2 Kings 6:24-29). King Jehoram, possessed man had been cured. mission offices with these and related matters. in mourning clothes, tore his robes with horror, and we can Community response Then all the people of the region of For instance, in 2008, when the BUC offices suffered severe fire understand his anger at Elisha for not killing the Syrians when he The community’s response to this clearly the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave and water damage, alternative office space was rented in Frogmore had the chance. He even blamed God for the disaster, asking what troubled man was restraint. They chained him them, because they were overcome in the name of the SDAA. use it was to listen to the LORD (2 Kings 6:30-33). How many down, by his hands and feet, but there was with fear. So he got into the boat and This is a very brief outline of what we do, but I intend to pass on times we have seen – even experienced – similar reactions in our a demonic, strength behind his left.’ (Luke 8:35-37, NIV.) more helpful information to you relating to the following in future own lives! life which enabled him to break free from his I fine the reaction of the issues of ESSENGER: The LORD, though, delivered His people – again through restraints. community to the man’s healing M • Building projects – the essential elements that must be covered, peaceful means, making the Syrians flee the scene without a drop This is a fascinating story because it amazing. They see the man wearing and so on; of blood being shed (2 Kings 7:1-15). Food became plentiful and reveals how a community (dare I say the clothes . . . and they are frightened? cheap once again, and the man who questioned God’s ability to do health service) sought to deal with a person it He is sitting down calmly, • What must happen when the local church signs any contracts; this was squashed in the rush to buy it (2 Kings 7:16-20). How either could not, or would not, understand! listening to Jesus . . . and they are • Church building acquisition and loan policy; many times have we – like Jehoram – found it hard to accept that The community recognised that this man frightened? God’s plans involve mercy, and not brutality: and missed out on had serious problems, but the best that they He is clearly in his right mind • How to lodge your property purchase/sale requests; His blessings as a result? could come up with was isolation and iron again . . . and they are frightened? • Fundraising campaigns to purchase church buildings; chains. This was clearly a flawed strategy, In fact, the people are so • Who was Jehoram of Israel’s mother? for it did not help the man recover. Which terrified by the normality of the man, • Renting your church or hall to the community; • What did Jehoram do that was right? leads me to ask whether the community was and what Jesus had done, that they • Putting together a building contract for repairs or extension; • Were there times in the Bible when God’s people did need to interested in seeing the man recover, or ask Jesus to go away from them! resort to force? whether they preferred simply to manage the What kind of crazy world did • Renting or leasing from other churches or landlords; • How many angels could have helped Christ? (Matthew 26) problem? he live in – one that is frightened by • How to constitute a church building committee. I am not a psychiatrist, psychologist or him now being clothed, in his right • What did Christ ask His Father to do to His enemies? (Luke 23) 6 7 feature A charitable nation Breakfast raises £1,000 Reflections on UK Giving 2012 Julian Hibbert Our editor reflects on one of our great national Editor qualities, and suggests that it could provide a positive and gentle way of engaging our communities. Caroline Donaldson in action in the kitchen

haritable involvement is a hallmark Religious causes are by no means a lost of British life, and our nation’s latest cause in our day and age, and these are the performance is spelt out in UK Giving report’s findings on this point: ‘ “Religious C2012. causes” attracted the largest donations According to this report there has been a on average’ and made up 17% of the total slight decline in the number of adults giving to referred to above.4 charitable causes, on a monthly basis, down from 58 to 55%. Despite this, the report stated Global giving that participation in charitable giving ‘remains When analysed, global giving trends show relatively widespread with over half of adults the following as the top ten generous nations: giving in 2011/2012, equivalent to 28.4 the United States, Ireland (the EU leader), million adults.’1 This adult giving was Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, responsible for raising £9.3 billion during the Netherlands, , Sri Lanka, Thailand The organising committee takes a welcome break after the event One of the friends of the community spent the whole morning painting kids’ faces the period.2 and Laos. The UK sits at fifth spot.5 What is being measured here is the direct he Banbridge church is still ‘There was just no way in mushroom farmer in Rathfriland, children’s clothes and other Most popular causes giving, to causes of their choice, by each in a haze of amazement over which we could ignore this he told me that he was no longer bric-a-brac. Visitors came in their The report also provides an insight into country’s population. The Charities Aid Tthe runaway success of a opportunity to support the Milton in the business, but he donated droves. ‘Our eating area had the most popular causes to which people Foundation (CAF) surveys are not measuring fundraising breakfast that brought Family,’ was the response of £50 to the breakfast. It turned out seats for sixty people. We filled donate: ‘ “Medical research”, “hospitals and the giving power of governments to in just over £1,000 for the charity Pastor Weiers Coetser, the local that we didn’t need that £50 for the area up more than twice as hospices” and “children and young people” international causes, either directly or CDH UK. minister. ‘This is what we are the breakfast and so we gave the the morning continued,’ said continue to attract the highest proportion of through donor organisations. When Michelle and Peter about. And what a pleasure to money to the CDH UK charity. Pastor Weiers Coetser. donors.’3 It is interesting to see what emerges when Milton arrived at the church hall help!’ The support was overwhelming!’ ‘We all felt overwhelmed when one looks at the extent to which just before 9.30am on Sunday The volunteers that host these On the morning of the event, Michelle and Peter counted the each country’s population (all ages) morning 25 November 2012, they monthly Sunday breakfasts everything went smoothly. People money raised and it topped more is involved in charitable giving (not had no idea that more than 120 immediately began to plan. walked out of the cool morning than £1,000. It has been the most necessarily each month though): John Donaldson has been attending our breakfast event since people were going to arrive in Advertisements were placed and weather into a cozy hall filled with successful single fundraising August. He attends church now and tells everybody in town ‘In terms of percentage of that he is a ‘Seventh-dayer’! support of a charity that seeks to the word was spread that this the smell of a hearty ‘Irish’ break- event that we have had in a long population, Thailand was the most raise awareness of the condition would be an extra-special meal. fast. Colourful balloons decorated time,’ was Pastor Coetser’s generous, with 85% of Thais making that claimed the life of their The free community breakfast the hall. A face-painting corner comment. regular charitable contributions. charitable ‘giving’ and ‘serving’ suggest new-born son, James Peter, a usually attracts around thirty immediately had a queue of chil- ‘These Banbridge breakfasts The UK was the second most anything to you? Is it possible that part of the few months earlier. people. It is a relaxed event where dren waiting to become moving are open to any members of the generous, with 79% regularly giving common ground between the community and According to Orla Reynolds, children get to do crafts while works of art. The Milton family community. The meal is offered to charity.’6 our Church could be charitable support? If we Michelle’s sister, ‘Congenital parents sit back, enjoy a hearty set up tables at the bottom end of free as the church’s investment The fact that we have 79% of our can’t get friends and neighbours to attend our diaphragmatic hernia is a meal and chat. the hall where they did a brisk in supporting friendship and nation ‘making regular charitable regular services, read our literature or discuss condition that occurs (once in ‘This time round we knew that trade in cupcakes, a variety of community spirit in the Banbridge contributions’ should say something the Bible, perhaps we can get them to enjoy 2,000 to 5,000 births) when more people were coming and sweets, framed photographs, area.’ about our national ethos – especially working with us on well-chosen charitable there is a malformation of the we wondered if our facilities and when you hold this fact up against projects. baby’s diaphragm early in its resources would cope,’ said the sombre clouds of austerity that Surely our co-operation on such projects development. This poses a Patrinne Irvine, one of the brood over us today. Despite all can help wear down prejudice, build warm serious threat to the life and organisers. ‘On Friday morning the adjectives used to describe our friendships, and arouse a healthy curiosity well-being of the newborn child. before the event I woke up with national failings, you can’t deny the about our faith. In fact, from reports we The consequences are almost a hunch that I should phone facts – we are a charitable lot! receive, it seems that some of our always devastating to the families around to see if I could get a few Something else of significance is congregations are already using this strategy concerned. This condition is not donations. Before the day was the fact that 28% of our population with success. Why not give it a try in your as well-known, but in actual fact over I had donations of bread ‘volunteer time’ each month for community – and don’t forget to let our it occurs just as much as spina from two bakeries, ten-dozen charitable causes.7 It would seem, readers know how it works out! bifidia and cystic fibrosis.’ When eggs from a farm in Hamiltons- then, that a large number of us are Michelle’s friend, Mary, told her bawn, milk and yoghurts from the willing to go beyond giving money – 1https://www.cafonline.org/PDF/UKGiving2012Summary.pdf about a community breakfast local dairy, various vouchers from we want to serve as well! 2Ibid 3Ibid 4Ibid 5http://www.worldvision.org/news/new- running in the local Adventist local supermarkets and small report-ranks-most-generous-countries 6http://www.bbc.co.uk/ church, an idea was planted that shops, and even a kilogram of news/business-16260782 7http://www.guardian.co.uk/ Does this suggest something? voluntary-sector-network/2011/dec/20/world-giving-index- this would be an ideal place to filter coffee from a local coffee Do these facts about our nation’s 2011 host a fundraising breakfast. shop. When I tried to call a Children making cards H out what this was by blanking out the squares. Another life-changing event took place too. Work renamed her After her parents’ death, her uncle, Mordecai, DI J S I D I T Bible. Unscramble these letters to find her Persian name: the answer in the contents page at the beginning of the Old Testament book after Nehemiah. Clue – look up If you have not guessed who it is, then find the name of H [ [ E V E A F S F V E A Q A U E E E Q A U Esther NK , which means ‘shining star’. K O C I A H S D B H L E

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I would I answer, lights ‘The twinkled that aroundvenue.’ the the During these blank spaces. 2:2-4 and 14-18 (NIV) to fill in Use the words from Esther quarrelled and then divorced. partying king and queen Esther 1:9-22 tells how the Feedback from children who visit Christian Stars Children’s pages – or their parents is welcome. greedy • caring patient honest selfish untruthful proud love God happy The address is Put in the star shapes the ways Christian boys and girls can ‘shine’ for Jesus. [email protected]. to be a shining star for Jesus. name on the Olympic torch if you want by praying and trusting in Him. Put your Like Esther, you can be God’s shining stars by her . Her unselfishness and beauty instead of . Esther humbly asked the king to call her Then let the who pleases be queen Esther lived up to her name ‘star’ when she prayerfully Esther’s bravery? Esther 9:26-28 What is the festival Jews celebrate today because of The king’s edict granted her Jewish people the right to Heather Haworth, Children’s Ministries director,Heather Haworth, BUC on her head and made . Fill in the blanks to find out how this happened. decided to risk her life to save her people. the king. So he set a themselves. Esther 8:11 Dawn Thompson 10 11 Area 8 youth date ways to witness news The youth of the Area 8 churches met at the Firstsite Art Gallery, Colchester, on 20 October 2013 for a day of fellowship, based on the theme of ‘Identity’. The morning was packed with memorable activities Adventists attend ‘shul’* directed by Chisola Chitambala and her team: praise music; spirited discussions; Derrick Mensah’s special theme song; and a moving You name it – by Katie Ramharacksingh sermon by the SEC Teens director, Pastor Dejan Stojkovic. The afternoon programme was A synagogue in East London is to become the new Ilford Seventh-day just as much a blessing, and the she does Adventist church. After it was acquired in October 2012, members day ended with a really fun-filled of the current Ilford church, as well as people from the surrounding evening social gathering. community, were invited to visit the synagogue on Sunday, 18 it! November. TREVOR AND GERTRUDE Barbara Hankin accepted It was discovered by Alan Rodney, a member of Ilford Church, and is the Lord Jesus as her per- four times as large as the current church. It has a 500-seat sanctuary, a sonal Saviour at the age hall and over a dozen smaller rooms. of 15, while attending a ‘There is so much space!’ enthused Shirley Austin, Ilford Church Billy Graham crusade at member. ‘There’s no crowding or cramping; there’s space for every- the Birmingham town thing. I have always thought that when we needed a bigger church hall. Shortly thereafter, a God would send us one. At the moment a ceiling separates our card congregation, with people in the sanctuary downstairs and in the was posted through her hall upstairs. I think door, and she began the new building will studying our Bible bring us closer as a lessons. Being a young congregation, with Christian, and thirsty for everyone able to see the Word, she excelled each other while YouTube leads to in her studies and was worshipping encouraged by the together.’ excellent marks she Both the Ilford baptism received. and East Ham God is using new ways of reaching people in this country – how’s this Despite the total churches will benefit for an example? opposition of her parents, from this move Zbigniew Grzesiuk, who was baptised at Swindon Church on 17 Barbara accepted the because the East November 2012 by Pastor Rudi Puskas, grew up in Poland and moved Sabbath and made her Ham members have, to the UK eight years ago. Zbigniew found work in the building trade . . . decision to follow her in turn, purchased but that is not all that he’s found. Lord irrespective of their Ilford’s current While looking for information about baptism, he came across the views. She gained much In between all this activity Barbara and her late husband building which will YouTube videos of Dr and Roger Morneau in 2011. His courage from her found time to raise six children. She is also a champion better suit their interest was captivated by the many new ideas he heard about health, assigned Bible worker, ingatherer who specialises in pubs! needs. the Sabbath and the life of Jesus. During their lectures these speakers Betty Hanna, and was kept mentioning the Adventist Church, so Zbigniew decided to look up *The word ‘shul’ is derived baptised by Pastor West in June 1950 in the Handsworth church in from the German word the church in Swindon. Birmingham. schule, meaning school, and Since then he has faithfully attended every Sabbath, and was using Her mother and her auntie attended the service, but her father highlights the synagogue as his practical skills to decorate the church even before he was baptised! remained opposed to her decision. Leaving the congregational church a place of study. May God bless Zbigniew as he faces the many challenges of his new where all her family held leading positions was a very difficult decision life. PETER YESUDIAN for Barbara to make, but she knew that she ought to ‘obey God rather to people who are blind. Tracey Williamson, who is deaf, gave her than man’. testimony and provided insight into the needs of members who have She felt called to enter the nursing profession, and came to difficulty hearing. Watford to do her general training, qualifying in 1955 as a State Marilyn’s key message was for the church to know that people with Registered Nurse. This was followed by approximately forty-eight disabilities have something to offer. They don’t want to be made to feel years of service at the Watford General hospital! they are constantly in need of help. ‘People with disabilities,’ she said, Most of us would have felt justified in having a quiet retirement, ‘have a ministry and are only too glad to be seen to work alongside but not Barbara. For more than a decade since retirement she has others, and not brought in later as an afterthought.’ been a lollipop lady for at least three days a week, ensuring that Tracy spoke of feeling isolated at church. Her practical advice schoolchildren cross the street in safety. included the following: Barbara is also fully committed to ministry in her local Stanborough • Churches must ensure that PowerPoint presentations are easy to Park church where has served as deaconess for over twenty years. read from a distance. She also does community singing for senior citizens on Sabbath • There must be good contrast between the words and screen afternoons, runs a small group on Mondays, and never misses a backgrounds of all slides. prayer meeting! But as if this isn’t enough, Barbara joined the Hanwell • People who are deaf should be seated close to the front to allow for Action at Angaza Prison Ministry team fifteen years ago. This means an early start for lip-reading. her on some Sundays too! • Churches should recognise and accommodate the needs of deaf and The Reading Angaza church has been trying to win the hearts of the When asked, ‘What is it that keeps you going?’ she quickly answers, hard-of-hearing worshippers. Hexham community for years – unsuccessfully though! During the 2012 ‘Well, it’s the love of the Lord, of course!’ What else could it be? Black History Month, however, things changed dramatically. PASTOR R. CHISHOLM Both speakers expressed how much they enjoyed being in the The church was invited to provide music and prayer during one of FORMER PRISON MINISTRY CO-ORDINATOR, SEC Greenwich church. Marilyn, being a musician, especially enjoyed the the main events: ‘Your church choir sings really nice, you know!’ Marilyn Baker visits Greenwich Church song service. ‘The atmosphere here is electric, warm and very friendly,’ Then came this amazing concession from the main organiser: Marilyn Baker and Tracy Williamson from MBM ministries supported she said. ‘We have decided that we are not going to interrupt your church so that we won’t cause you offence.’ ASNA on 15 September for the Greenwich Seventh-day Adventist ASNA works in partnership with other Christian organisations to programmes as the black history event will commence soon after The youth sang beautifully that day and some community members Church Disability Awareness training day. Marilyn, a well-known provide resources and information to support the ministry to people your church services around 3pm in order that you can take part. would now like to form a community choir – God is at work in Hexham! international Gospel singer and song-writer who is also blind, gave living with disabilities and special needs. Please let us know of anything that is not permissible to your church TEGEMEA CHAMPANDA her personal testimony and provided practical suggestions for ministry SOPHIA NICHOLLS 12 13 gave her annual report, pointing out Stanborough’s excellent academic According to Master Guide Doris Lack, the most senior Worcester hand at drumming. This went down very well indeed. Wrapped In results at KS3+ and GCSE, with 79% of the students achieving five or Church member, this was the first investiture or induction in Worcester The club director, Trevor Davis, said, ‘If one person from the Middlesbrough more A*-C grades (64% A*-C including English and Mathematics. Church since she became a member in 1968, and possibly the first the community learnt something about Pathfindering, or if we get one young National average for 2006: 58.5%). She also commended the spiritual club has organised since the church was founded in 1910. person joining the club as a result of the event, it will have been more Middlesbrough’s shoebox development of the students and their active participation in local and The Pathfinder and Adventurer Club is an avenue for friendship than worth it. Pathfindering is a great evangelistic tool and we must use appeal netted 167 boxes international charities such as STOP international. evangelism. The three non-Adventist members of the club are currently it imaginatively to get our message out into our communities.’ from the church with a V. PIZZUTO attending Sabbath services and their parents have hinted that they will CISLYN MORGAN-DAVIS further 202 from Stokesley come with their children soon. WENNA BOLOZ AND JOSEPH EMPAWI Primary School, which means that 369 children in Pathfinder induction service Burkina Faso will receive a Pathfinder open day Erdington Community Pathfindering Club held its second Pathfinder little bit of hope from this Erdington Community Pathfindering Club (ECPC) swung open its doors induction service on 9 September 2012. Pathfinders Rebecca and part of England. to the local community on 3 September last year at its first open day. Melisa Smith, Khanyi and Khusy Kona, Allenah Lawrence-Hamilton This is the sixth year the Adventurer and Pathfinder club members and leaders, together with and Kamari Riley and four counsellors (Karleen Andall, Kenrick Fagan, school has taken part in our their number-one supporter, the 76-year-old Leo Stoddart, were all on Mandisa Melbourne and Jean Simmonds) were given the hand of annual shoebox appeal. The hand to welcome and show guests and prospective new members what fellowship by existing members and welcomed into the membership kids are so keen to help the club has to offer. by the club director, Trevor Davis. others, and get really Stalls were set up with exhibitions of uniforms, craft works and class According to the director: ‘The majority of our club members excited about making the folders. A slideshow of the activities from the past year (including the experienced the induction service for the first time last year, and it is boxes. In fact, after camporee, rally day, club camp and investiture) was also shown to now a permanent fixture on the club calendar. It allows new members watching the ADRA DVD entice new members. Two members of the Ladywood Club’s drum to demonstrate their acceptance of the Pathfindering principles that and realising how little the children of Africa have, many used their own corp, Wesley and Justin Bishop, gave a drumming demonstration and underpin the club’s ideals.’ TREVOR DAVIS, ECPC DIRECTOR pocket money to buy gifts. taster sessions for those members and visitors who wanted to try their Getting the story into the local newspaper every year also helps, with the result that I had people knocking at my door with boxes. One Worcester Pathfinders Adventurer induction service lady, after learning of the needs in Africa, went on to make an amazing On 22 September 2012, Erdington Community Pathfindering Club held fifty-eight shoeboxes, seventy hand-knitted cardigans and four light the way their Adventurer induction service. Adventurers Nathan and James blankets. She even delivered them to my door! Johnson, Adonijah Stewart, Shayanne Thompson (Helping Hand), It pays to get your local community involved, even if you don’t live Eleven members of the Pathfinder and Adventurer Club and eleven staff Leah* (Builder), Tyrique Fagan, Calvin Morgan, Kimberley Phillips, near the church. It’s actually so easy to get people outside the church Becki Crossley, one of three non- Candice Riley (Sunbeam), Acacia Morgan (Eager Beaver) and one members lit candles during the induction Adventist club members involved with things inside the church. counsellor (Aghron Hutchingson) were formally inducted into the club If you have young children at school, go and ask the head teacher if ceremony at Worcester Church in the West Midlands on 3 November, 2012. Edwin and Selfa Vargas were also in the presence of their families, friends, club and church members. they’d like to take part next year. Those who’ll be receiving the boxes ‘It is pleasing to have seen the membership of the Adventurer Club are thousands of miles away; go ahead and ask on their behalf . . . invested as Master Guides. John Baltazar, Elroi Erres Vargas, Moises Baltazar, Judy Importante grow from three (two years ago), to more than twenty-five now. What is you’re only a few steps away. equally pleasing is that over 40% of the membership are children from JUDY HAMILTON-JOHANSSON and Jehann Importante were the five Pathfinders invested. Five Adventurers, namely Shekinah Cabajon, David Baltazar, Abram Kyron non-Adventist families.’ TREVOR DAVIS, ECPC DIRECTOR Vargas, Becki Crossley and Larah Mourah, and one Eager Beaver, *Surname not supplied. President Jackson motivates students Tobias Jurkovsky, were also invested. Joice and Joelle Badar, two non- Adventist Adventurers, weren’t able to attend the event due to a family On Thursday 25 October last year, Stanborough School held a ☞ memorable speech night to celebrate the students’ achievements of bereavement. 2011-2012. Pastor Daniel Jackson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America, was the guest of honour. His inspirational speech focused on how ‘your attitude determines your altitude’. He encouraged the students to be authentic and aim high. Elder Jackson also participated in the presentation of awards and prizes, including one to Sarah Bashorun, a former student, who received the Fletcher Cup – given to those who have shown remarkable courage and determination in the face of adversity. Sarah’s family migrated from Nigeria when she was 8. Coming from a culture vastly different, she struggled to adjust. Growing up in Hackney and attending an inner-London school was a daunting task for a young immigrant girl. In 1990 she joined Stanborough. This meant a daily commute starting from home at 6am, and usually arriving at school late after travelling over two and a half hours. Sarah would get home in the evening at 7pm, too tired for homework. However, she soon learnt to adapt by doing her homework on the train. In spite of these demands, the school was ‘a place of escape’ where she found peace. She found Jesus there too, and was baptised at the age of 13 at the New Gallery church. After finishing school, Sarah obtained a diploma in Social Work and Higher Education (Luton University) and has spent the last fifteen years in social work. She is currently working for Haringey Social Services, supporting families subject to immigration control. The headmistress, Mrs Lorraine Dixon, Pastor Jackson with Raquelle Photo: D. Edwards 14 15 Roberts; she leaves siblings: when they were looking for an Renna, Eugene, Essie, Denzie, Adventist church in England, one obituary Seletia, Civille, Lillian, Steve, night she had a dream showing Collie, Pearle, Kivie, Madge, Joy her the church at Camp Hill. Vera and Clive. believed God had led her to this Vera Icilda 2012. She was born Vera Icilda Vera met her husband-to-be, church and she would not be Jackson (1926- Gray on 27 June 1926, in the Ira Jackson, when she was 12 leaving it until she died. 2012) d. 21 May. district of May River, Saint Mary, years old; a meeting that Vera played an active role Camp Hill Church a parish located in the northeast eventually led to sixty-two years during her time at both the ‘old’ was saddened by of Jamaica. of marriage. She later worked and ‘new’ Camp Hill churches. the death of Vera She was the first of many as a dressmaker, and sold the Camp Hill was blessed by her Icilda Jackson, siblings, born to William Lee clothing she made at the local Fort many years of service. who died of cancer on 21 May, Gray and Aquilla Castella Stewart market, which was where ‘Till death us do part – in she met her first Adventist friend. sickness and in health’ – this was Vera married Ira in 1950 and the blessed testimony of Vera became Mrs Vera Jackson. A few Icilda Jackson. She kept looking years after they were married Vera after her husband, who developed and Ira were baptised into the Alzheimer’s, despite the obvious Seventh-day Adventist faith. When pain caused by the cancer which Vera was 28 her father left for eventually got the better of her. England, and a few years later she In addition to the support her decided to follow to pursue beloved husband Ira could give a better life. Her husband Ira her, Vera also had the care, followed her with their eldest son assistance and love from family in 1960. and close friends who will miss In the mid-sixties Vera gave her sadly. up dressmaking to obtain a more She is survived by her secure role in nursing, firstly at husband, children and grand - the Birmingham Eye Infirmary, children. Along with her siblings, then at Yardley Green Hospital, cousins, nieces, nephews, and and finally by qualifying as grand-nephews and nieces, we all a psychiatric nurse. After look forward to the day when Vera qualification, Vera got a job at will rise at the trumpet sound in Rubery Hospital. Later on she the First Resurrection. worked at a number of care homes We look forward, if we remain in Birmingham. faithful, to meeting her again in She often told us of how, Heaven. VERA JACKSON’S SONS

We don’t reflect the culture, we affect the culture! Never give up – an evening of by Katie Ramharacksingh inspirational praise and worship The Teens Prayer and Bible Conference was held from 29 October to Former head girl & boy, Latiqua Barthley & Dwight Johns by Katie Ramharacksingh 2 November last year, at Stanborough Secondary School. The conference, with the theme ‘We Don’t Reflect the Culture, We The unique community events management company, Backstage Affect the Culture’, opened soulfully with more than 180 teens in the Former head girl ‘cleans up’ at award Projects, was established to help create, plan and transform ideas into auditorium on Monday night singing the hymn, ‘Marching to Zion’. exceptional successful events. They focus on planning and promoting The week held a packed schedule of programmes, workshops, ceremony community-based events that uplift, inspire and reflect the diversity of worship and even spare moments for free time. Workshops ranged by Katie Ramharacksingh talent that exists in our communities today. from ‘how to deal with anger’, to ‘looking at relationships’, to Bible Recently they ran a very successful event on Saturday, 3 November, studies with Pastor Kirk Thomas, SEC Personal Ministries director. ‘I Latiqua Barthley, head girl at John Loughborough School during the at the ‘Rock Tower’, in North London. felt as if this Prayer and Bible Conference was for me,’ said Derrick 2011-2012 academic year, took home six awards at the school’s The evening overflowed with talent, showcasing singers, poets and Mensah, from Southend. ‘I personally got a lot of answers to questions speech night on Monday evening, 19 November: the highest achiever in musicians throughout. Groups such as 4Christ, Inspired Praise and the I’ve had for some time. It was just amazing how I could connect with her year group, leaving Year 11 with six ‘A*’ and five ‘A’ GSCE grades. Soloettes performed several songs each. other youths like myself and pray for one another. I thought nothing Latiqua, now studying for the International Baccalaureate, said: ‘God There were also soloists and musicians, including Elisabeth could top the last one but I was wrong.’ has been so good! . . . it makes me want to do more, be better, be Kristiansen, Joshua Kesler, Natalie Phillips, Samuel Acquah, Paul West The speaker for the week was Pastor Wade Forde of the greater in the future.’ and Chaleboy the Poet. Southeastern California Conference, who focused on ‘Living iLife’. Awards presented throughout the evening included: the ‘TED Award’, ‘I was amazed at the talent I saw on the night,’ enthused Sheryl One of the leaders spoke about how a young boy, who wasn’t given to Latiqua for the highest average point score; the ‘Brown Eagle Renshaw from the audience. ‘I wasn’t sure what I had gone in an Adventist, approached him and asked about how he could start Award’, won by Stephen Hibbert as the highest achiever in Year 7; ‘Artist expecting, but I know that when I walked out at the end . . . well, I attending church. ‘This was so positive, this is what it is all about!’ of the Year’, presented to Toyin Harewood; and the ‘Music Award’, given didn’t want to walk out! I can only say that the individuals had more enthused the leader. to Dwight Johns for outstanding achievement. than talent; they were blessed by God.’ By the end of the week, twenty teens had decided to be baptised! The evening, held at the nearby Gladesmore Community School, was Backstage Projects are looking for people of all ages to take part in If you missed out on this Prayer and Bible Conference, or if you linked to the theme of their 2012 graduation ceremony, ‘Nobody Greater their next community event. Vocalist, instrumentalist, speaker, dancer, want to come back for the experience, the Teens Prayer and Faith than God’. Dr Roach, MD, BSc, spoke about his own experiences of poet, actor or comedian; whatever your talent is, it’s time to share it! Conference, 2013, is now open for bookings! Go to being discouraged at a young age, and encouraged the young people. For more info, go to www.backstageprojects.com. www.secyouth.co.uk for more information. The programme highlighted the fact that every child matters. 16 back page The staff at the Adventist Book Centre would like to wish all their customers Leamington Spa and friends a very happy new year for 2013! Mission Church ABC Shops On Sunday 21 October, Nigel Clark Watford, BUC, Monday-Thursday – 12.30-5pm, Friday – 10am-2pm. of Leamington Spa Mission Birmingham, Aston-Newtown, Wednesday – 11am-4pm, Thursday – 4pm-8pm, Church ran the Abingdon Marathon Friday – 9am-1pm, Sunday – 11am-3pm. in support of two charities, Advent Centre, Mondays & Wednesdays – 6.30pm-8.30pm, Compassion and Special Needs Sundays – 11am-3pm, Saturdays – November, December, January: After sunset. Camp. The mission has sponsored three children: Daniel (Rwanda) and Rehema (Uganda) for ten years; and Mestawet (Kenya) for five years. Nigel’s sponsorship money will be added to a yearly Christmas collection for their education, food parcels, and Christmas and birthday presents. Special Needs Camp (Aberdaron) has for many years received fantastic support from the mission, mainly through the voluntary help and support of our young people, helping to ensure that Hemel Hempstead Church Camp the campers have a great time and, just as importantly, providing some Nothing frightens the resilient members of Hemel Hempstead! Not even respite to their carers and family members. The money raised will help the prospect of torrential rain during their weekend at Stewardstone go toward providing the campers with an eventful week packed with Camp. It was a case of ‘Hemel are coming; we hope you are ready for exciting activities. us!’ on 21 September, last year. As an added bonus Nigel managed a personal best time of three Some slept in lovely little wooden cabins while others braved the hours, twenty-four minutes and thirty-six seconds, and the total raised elements and slept in their tents. Fortunately, God answered their many to date is over £400. prayers and the rain held off until the camp was over on Sunday. COMMUNICATION DEPT Daniel Thompson was the weekend speaker (with a little impromptu help from Karen Plaatjes on the Friday night), but there were lots of other great activities, including a huge bonfire – and the food was great! JOHN BUTTERS One-Sabbath friends prove to be forever friends! While visiting Weymouth in Dorset recently, I decided to worship at the Messenger Weymouth Seventh-day Adventist Volume 118 • 1 – 4 January 2013 church. It is a very small church but Editor: J. G. Hibbert the people there have big hearts of Contributing Editor: Dr D. N. Marshall love and kindness. Design: David Bell The first part of their love and COPY FOR No. 3 – 17 January 2013 Copy should be sent to the Editor, M kindness was the sharing of their ESSENGER, The Stanborough Press Limited, Alma Park, Grantham, meal with me, a total stranger! Then Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. Fax No: (01476) 577144. we went for a walk and got to a Email: [email protected] high peak from where we could Send high-resolution pictures to: [email protected] see Bournemouth, Poole, Portland ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 and Weymouth itself. It was a Mon-Thurs only, 8am - 5.30pm. spectacular view! We had a picnic www.stanboroughpress.com near the beach.The second part of The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. their love was sending back my bag Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. which I had left behind on the last For general enquiries, email: day of my holiday. [email protected] Printed in the UK. Many thanks to Pastor Visit the BUC website at: www.adventist.org.uk Thompson, Laurie, and all the ISSN 0309-3654 members for their love and kindness. 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