June 16, 2007 In this issue Plans to link the SPD underway
Kiribati school baptises 107
Training and empowerment Pioneer pilots Pastors Colin Winch and Len Barnard (left and centre) survey the new Adventist Aviation Services’ plane with AAS pilot Pastor Roger Millist (right). Pioneers remembered with new plane GOROKA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
he newly commissioned PAC 750XL places in the highlands of the country as aircraft has arrived safely in Goroka, well as providing other transport services. Papua New Guinea (PNG), having “The new aircraft will make a huge dif- T completed its maiden fl ight from ference to the many isolated communities the manufacturer in New Zealand, with a in PNG,” says Dr Brad Kemp, associate dedication plaque to be placed in its hangar general secretary of the South Pacifi c Di- (see “New AAS aircraft dedicated to serv- vision, who participated in dedicating the ABC sales ice,” News, June 9). plane in part to the church’s mission pilots The aircraft—registered P2SDB—is “who put their lives at risk but who do it “dedicated to the service of God and in with purpose and passion.” memory of mission pilots who died in mis- The memory of former mission pilots continue sion aviation and other mission service.” Lawrence Shields, Peter Knopper, Graham The fi rst plane of its kind to fl y in PNG, it Barnett and Les Anderson will also live on will be used by Adventist Aviation Services through the services the aircraft will pro- to grow (AAS) to treat the sick in hard-to-reach vide. (Continued on page 5) ISSN 0819-5633
2222 CCover.inddover.indd 1 55/6/07/6/07 99:43:11:43:11 AMAM editorial
There is a grace in being outnumbered. Outnumbered
he rainy season has come to A short distance downstream, the pub- common beliefs, values and culture. Cambodia and the oppressive heat lic-address system from a mosque sounds But there is a grace in being outnum- is punctuated by regular downpours the afternoon call to prayer. The tinny, bered. Removed from the easy assumptions T that fl ood the fi elds, roads and mar- amplifi ed chant echoes across the empty and taken-for-grantedness of our everyday ketplaces. Ploughs drawn by cows, water expanse of the river. lives, we are challenged to think about what buffaloes or small engines churn the mud To our left, a passenger ferry—an old is most important in our beliefs and culture. in preparation for the rice planting. And wooden boat powered by a single propeller We are also invited to learn from all that the sugar palms stand like tall exclamation on an extended pole—unloads on the bank. is around us, to look for what is important marks amid the patchwork of ploughed Among the passengers, a Buddhist monk is and best in their lives, beliefs and culture. mud, small lakes and vibrant green. conspicuous by his bright orange robes. We In addition, we must refl ect on the poverty, The roads are more diffi cult than usual, can see three pagodas on the opposite bank, disease and tragic history of Cambodia— with the usual clinging dust replaced with one still under construction with a spider realities in the lives of many of the people brown puddles and sticky mud. But the web of bamboo scaffolding precariously with whom we come into contact and of the traffi c is no less frenzied, as animals and surrounding the half-fi nished roof. country and culture as a whole. animal-powered carts share the roadways We understand so little of it. The language And we also come to realise that we are with large trucks, buses, small motorbikes washes over us like the scudding rainstorms not as outnumbered or outside as it might and cyclists, and school children in the but we can recognise only occasional words. fi rst appear. Our fi rst connection with the standard pristine white shirts and dark It is like this for most of our trip. With many people we meet and spend time with is that trousers or long skirts. of the people we meet, conversations are of fellow human beings. Their joys, sor- A wet fug adds to the spectrum of smells restricted to “Hello” and an exchange of rows, hopes, fears, dreams and aspirations that emanate from the many roadside mar- smiles, mostly sparked by our shared pre- parallel our own. We try to learn from them kets. And when the sun next breaks through dicament of being unable to communicate and how these essential human drives are the clouds, the humidity rises from the rain- further. And the lives, beliefs, culture, tastes expressed in their culture and beliefs. And, soaked ground and thickens the air until it and smells are similarly strange—and, often, when opportunities arise, we in turn try to can almost be tasted. diffi cult for us to appreciate. explain something of our lives to them. We are waiting for a ferry to cross the Fatigue is understandable among those It is not an easy road. But being outnum- Tonle Sap River to the south of the great who live and work constantly in environ- bered from time to time is perhaps a pre-em- lake in central Cambodia. The group of ments that are so “foreign” to them. It can be inent spiritual discipline. It tests and expands young people we are travelling with—sen- a diffi cult place to be. We tend to gravitate our lives, belief and thought—and it is the ior students from an orphanage school— toward those who are like us, who live, look, bridge of humility toward mutual growth talk and laugh among themselves, exploring think and act like us. This is natural—and and sharing our faith, hope and love. the riverbank while waiting for the cross- more comfortable. In the company of our fel- And we don’t have to trek around Cam- river ferry to return from the far bank. We lows, we can relax and simply enjoy all that bodia to fi nd places to be outnumbered. watch a heavy rainstorm strafe the river in we share in common. And that is good. We the distance, expecting it to move upstream need networks of social support and com- and break over us at any time. munity and these form more easily around Nathan Brown
Offi cial Paper of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacifi c Division Seventh-day Associate editor David Edgren 3485 Warburton Highway Adventist Church Editorial assistant Adele Nash Warburton, Vic 3799, Australia ABN 59 093 117 689 Editorial assistant Jarrod Stackelroth Phone: (03) 5965 6300 Fax: (03) 5966 9019 www.adventist.org.au Copyeditor Graeme Brown Email Letters: [email protected] Editorial secretary Kristel Rae Email Newsfront: [email protected] Vol 112 No 22 Layout Nathan Chee Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Cover: David Gibbons Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacifi c Division mailed within Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. www.record.net.au Other prices on application. Printed weekly.
2 June 16, 2007
2222 EEditorial.inddditorial.indd SSec1:2ec1:2 55/6/07/6/07 99:43:48:43:48 AMAM news ABC sales still growing WARBURTON, VICTORIA The award for greatest percentage sales increase in Australasia went to New Mil- or the second year in succession, sales lennium Books (Christchurch, New Zea- of “Adventist” products in Adventist land), with the ABCs in Western Australia Book Centres (ABC) have increased and Victoria just a fraction of a percentage F by more than 20 per cent in the South point behind. Pacifi c Division. The church’s 13 ABCs in the South Pa- Awards for sales and accreditation were cifi c are Oceania’s only international book Pacifi c ABC managers recognised for their fi ve-star stores with Glen Reed (centre), made at recent marketing seminars for the chain and account for 70 per cent of Signs manager of Signs Publishing Company. ABC managers in both Australia and New Publishing Company’s annual sales. Zealand, held in Warburton, Victoria; and Signs operates an accreditation plan— says, “as well as the spirit of the staff, who for the Pacifi c island territories, held at assessing retail competency, sales growth, also give spiritual and personal support to Pacifi c Adventist University (PAU), Port personnel and accounting and procedural their customers. Of course, they also enjoy Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG). systems—for these ABC stores. At the browsing the church’s literature.” “Surprisingly—and signifi cantly,” says May PAU marketing seminar, three were Pastor Terry Goltz, director of publish- Signs Publishing Company’s book depart- awarded a fi ve-star rating for the fi rst time, ing ministries for the South Pacifi c Divi- ment manager Liz Dunstan, “the percent- and almost all ABCs went to a higher sta- sion, attended both seminars. “Not only age increase for Australasian sales was 20.98 tus level. Those awarded were the ABCs were there high sales yet again,” he says, per cent. It’s surprising because it follows in Madang Manus and New Britain New “but what impressed me was the real sense a 21.90 per cent increase last year. That Ireland Missions (PNG) and Fiji. of mission within both groups of ABC equates to sales growth of almost 50 per Sales of Adventist products across the managers.” cent compared with two years ago. After Pacifi c increased by 18 per cent despite Mrs Dunstan reports that the next link last year’s results, I had expected things to diffi cult economic circumstances and po- in the Pacifi c ABC chain opens soon in level off this year but that Signs and the litical strife. Commenting on the reasons Apia, Samoa. She says that along with ABCs would achieve anywhere near the for such growth, Mrs Dunstan attributes Signs Publishing Company, the church’s same outcome is amazing! it to anecdotal reports that “people are two United States publishing houses—Pa- “More importantly, this really means attracted to our stores and the ‘good feel- cifi c Press and Review and Herald—have more Adventist publications are being read ing’ they experience from merely stand- each donated stock in order to kick-start by our people. But this isn’t really surpris- ing in them! sales in the fl edgling store, which is owned ing, I guess, as the titles directly cater to the “I can only assume that what they are and operated by the Samoas–Tokelau Mis- specifi c needs of members.” feeling is the presence of the Spirit,” she sion.—RECORD staff
◆ A former St George Rugby and abusing alcohol while 13 per lege, where she studied as a young League player addressed students cent live with alcohol abusers, it is woman. It was at Avondale that she at Avondale High School, Cooran- an issue the community needs to met her future husband, Pastor bong, NSW, on May 28 about the tackle head on. All 480 Avondale Thomas Kent, and they ministered dangers of taking drugs. Darren students listened to Mr Marton’s in Sydney, the South NSW, North Marton, the “Drugs: No way” powerful presentation, with a Queensland, South Australian campaign manager, spoke to stu- small handful of parents and com- ◆ Laura Kent, a well-known resi- and North NSW Conferences dur- dents, staff and parents at an infor- munity members also attending. dent at the Charles Harrison Nursing ing more than 60 years together. mation session designed to tackle Leighton Heise, Avondale school Home, Cooranbong, NSW, recently Her three surviving children were the increasingly dangerous issue chaplain, said that although hop- celebrated a very special birthday. present for her birthday celebra- of drug and alcohol abuse among ing for more community involve- Born near MacKay (Queensland), tion, and she also has 16 grand- teens. Mr Marton spoke of his own ment “it highlights even further on May 14, 1899, Mrs Kent turned children, 36 great-grandchildren struggles with drug abuse, which the drug culture in Australia, and 108. Surrounded by friends and and three great-great-grandsons. culminated in the destruction of how as families we tend to be apa- family, she celebrated by cutting Messages of congratulation were his promising football career. With thetic about drug use, particularly the cake and testifying of her faith received from Australian heads of recent statistics suggesting that up alcohol in our communities.”— and trust in God. Mrs Kent is the government and also the Queen.— to 20 per cent of teens are using Braden Blyde oldest alumni of Avondale Col- Deirdre Lindsay
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June 16, 2007 3
2222 NNews.inddews.indd 3 55/6/07/6/07 99:45:48:45:48 AMAM news “Reading is Plans to link the South giving” at MVAC Pacifi c underway DOONSIDE, NEW SOUTH WALES
WAHROONGA, NEW ear 6 students at Mountain View SOUTH WALES Adventist College are helping others while they help them- ore than 900 Y selves this year, by participating websites for in Scholastic Book Clubs’ ClassroomsCare, Seventh-day a philanthropy-based literacy campaign de- M Adventist signed to teach children about the joys and churches, schools, con- importance of reading and giving. ferences and various min- From April through to September, stu- istries of the South Pacifi c Division (SPD) tional websites free for 12 months, includ- dents in Maree Worker’s classroom and all have been created and are now available ing hosting requirements. The websites are across the country will read 100 books and, for customisation. designed to be simple to use, update and in turn, Scholastic Book Clubs, a division of The websites are part of the SPD web add information. Scholastic Australia, will donate 100 books network project, enabling them to be in- “Anybody who is interested in using the to disadvantaged children. terconnected through interactive individ- internet as an outreach tool for their local The class of 34 students has set itself the ual websites by the end of the month. The church should trial the program,” says Ms goal of reading 300 books by September. project is an initiative of Adventist Media Isaacs. “Even churches that already have More than 100 books have already been Network. working websites should do so, as being read.—RECORD staff/Maree Walker “Under this new project, Adventist or- on the network will enable them to be ganisations will be able to share informa- interconnected with the greater Advent- tion, such as news and events, automatically ist family.” across the network,” says Jeanelle Isaacs, According to Ms Isaacs, it is not too late electronic media offi cer of Adventist Media for local churches, schools and ministries Network. “This means that a church can to register for a new website. choose to have their local Adventist school’s The offi cial launch date of the SPD web events automatically appear on their calen- network project is July 21, to coincide with dar, or have news from their conference or the annual Media Evangelism Offering that the SPD update automatically.” will fund it.—Melody Tan Year 6 students at MVAC are aiming Churches will be provided fully func- More @ http://web.adventist.org.au to read 300 books by September.
The group have also adopted a year.—Avondale Connections small rest home, visiting often and running small programs there.— ◆ “Jesus saves,” was the theme of Julene Duerksen-Kapao a recent week-long spiritual pro- gram at Pacifi c Adventist University ◆ Avondale College’s (Cooran- (PAU), which saw two students ◆ The Palmerston North 50 Plus bong, NSW) senior music lecturer, baptised and 50 others publicly on campus.—Warren Marape Club, NZ, recently celebrated their Dr Robb Dennis, placed fi rst in the dedicate their lives to Christ. After 10th birthday. Started by three Century Challenge Cycle Tour on struggling with peer pressure and ◆ The Gympie church, Qld, recent- ladies as the Nifty Fifty’s social May 6. Dr Dennis completed the addictive substances, Neil Mac- ly celebrated its 85th anniversary, club, it soon changed to 50 Plus 107-kilometre event in three-and- donald (pictured) and David Kundi using the opportunity to refl ect to include more people. Currently, a-half hours. After a fall, Dr Dennis were both baptised during the pro- on past experiences and catch up between 40 and 45 people attend got back on his bike to repass the gram, which called on the students with old friends and members. the monthly socials, usually held two riders in front of him. “I decid- to recommit and consecrate their More than 100 members, past and in members’ homes. Their oldest ed to go for it. I was hurting. My lives to God. PAU chaplain, Pastor present, attended. On display was member, Jane Whippy (pictured), legs were burning,” says Dr Dennis. Jeff rey Paul instigated the meet- a scrap-book album, presented had the honour of cutting the cake. He hopes to compete again next ings after several recent incidents in a PowerPoint presentation and
DAYS AND OFFERINGS: ◆ JUNE 23—PACIFIC ISLANDS ADVANCEMENT OFFERING
4 June 16, 2007
2222 NNews.inddews.indd 4 55/6/07/6/07 99:45:50:45:50 AMAM news Pioneers remembered with new plane Kiribati school baptises 107 ABEMAMA, KIRIBATI (Continued from page 1) auma Adventist High School Shields and Anderson died in plane celebrated the baptism of 107 crashes near Goroka in 1973 and 2002 re- of its students during the spectively, while Knopper was murdered K past year. in 1988 in Homu, PNG, and Barnett was “This is the most productive year accidently killed in 1998 at Pacifi c Advent- in the history of Kaumu Advent- ist University. ist High School,” reports Pastor Also on board the aircraft when it landed Tengon Taabuke, president of the in PNG was Pastor Len Barnard, who also Kiribati and Nauru Mission, who participated in the dedication events. With paid tribute to school staff mem- Kauma is the Adventist Church’s only school Pastor Colin Winch, he established AAS bers. “These baptisms came as a in the Kiribati and Nauru Mission. more than 40 years ago. Now retired in result of the work of school chap- Cooranbong, Pastor Barnard was the fi rst lain George Worru and all the staff Her parents don’t support her fi nan- Seventh-day Adventist medical-mission- of Kauma.” cially, explains Pastor Taabuke, so she has ary pilot in PNG. According to Pastor Taabuke, the been unable to complete seventh form at “I never thought I would see such a state- number of baptisms is more remarkable Kauma. “But I believe these students will of-the art and beautiful machine used by considering about 90 per cent of the high come to church when they leave home,” the church,” says Pastor Barnard. “It is my school students come from non-Advent- he says. greatest wish that the Lord will bless this ist backgrounds. “Unfortunately, many of Kauma recently added Form 7 Uni- machine, the pilots and all the passengers, these young people go through persecu- versity of the South Pacifi c courses to its and that it will be used for the glory of tion from their parents when they commit curriculum, making it easier for Kauma God in PNG.” themselves to the church,” he says. students to further their studies beyond According to Pastor Roger Millist, chief “Recently, I visited one of our church high-school level. pilot and chief executive offi cer of AAS, the members on the island of Maiana and Pastor Taabuke says that because of new aircraft is a “signifi cant jump up from there I met one of the students I had bap- the support of the wider church, Kauma the other planes that we’ve had. tised at Kauma High School. I asked her Adventist High School “is able to carry “This aeroplane is a clear statement why she had missed the Sabbath worship on the important task of caring for our the Adventist Church is serious . . . about service, and she shared with me the per- young people, not only for this life but being God’s hands and feet in PNG,” he secution she endures from her parents most importantly for the life to come.” says.—Melody Tan/Brenton Stacey and relatives.” —Pacifi c Waves
put together by long-time mem- late mother, Marjorie Ogg. on May 19. Spectators lined the ber Ruth Ricketts, showing the Mrs Walker is currently a mem- streets and burst into sponta- progress of the church over the ber of the Gonville branch in neous applause at the sight of years. The service was attended Wanganui and national super- the London Youth Federation’s by Gympie mayor Mick Venardos intendent of the promotion “Put it down” anti-gun crime and his wife, Tina. “The anniver- methods department. She has sign. Adventist youth flowed sary was a highlight in the life of ◆ At the national convention previously been in national past Downing Street, Parliament the church and its people got a of the Women’s Christian Tem- secretarial roles over 12 years Square and Big Ben en route to real blessing from the day,” says perance Union held in Nelson, and was national vice-presi- Central Hall, Westminster, for the Pastor Phil Downing. The church NZ, Vivienne Walker (pictured), dent for three years.—Gloria formal celebrations that marked began as a company in 1913-14 a member of the Wanganui Greenfield 100 years of youth ministry in and was accepted into the South church, was presented with the Adventist Church. Youth lead- Queensland Conference in 1922, a long-service medal for 30 ◆ Some 700 marching Path- ers say the procession was prob- with 26 members. The current years service by the national fi nders and young people from ably the biggest ever conducted church building was completed president, Mollie Aitchison of Adventist churches around by Adventist young people in the in 1970.—Pat Towner/Lee Gailer Timaru. This service badge was Southern England brought United Kingdom.—Colin Stew- previously worn by Vivienne’s Central London to a standstill art/BUC News/ANN
GO TO UNI? ADVENTIST STUDENTS ASSOCIATION IS FOUND @ WWW.MYASA.ORG.AU
June 16, 2007 5
2222 NNews.inddews.indd 5 55/6/07/6/07 111:31:391:31:39 AMAM news US leader talks religious freedom and environmental responsibility
WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES erty Association and the North American creation and what it is.” He then quoted Religious Liberty Association. 1 Corinthians 10:26 to remind his audience n a night dedicated to recognising Faith leaders from Catholic, Jewish that “The earth is the Lord’s, and every- and upholding religious freedom and Protestant groups, foreign diplomats, thing in it” [NIV]. for all, United States Senator and representatives from various US govern- “Yes, we have dominion of it,” Senator O former presidential candidate John ment departments, Adventist religious Kerry added, “but dominion assumes re- Kerry rallied behind a bill designed to liberty activists and Adventist Church sponsibility. Our capacity to think gives protect the rights of people of faith—in- leaders from around the world attended us a greater capacity . . . to make choices. cluding Sabbath-keepers—in the work- the dinner. God gave us responsibility to make those place. Senator Kerry spoke to 200 guests Senator Kerry praised the efforts of the choices wisely and with love for our fellow at the fi fth annual religious liberty dinner coalition of different religions and philoso- human beings.” on May 17. phies represented. He received enthusias- He moved on to address humankind’s “We all uphold the right to practise what tic applause when he said, “That is why moral obligation in environmental matters, we believe as a matter of religious freedom. I support so passionately the Workplace regardless of party affi liation. “It’s not left The ability to be able to do that is a crucial Religious Freedom Act and have done or right, liberal or conservative. It’s just part of our national identity; [it] is what since I introduced it in 1996. It is time for plain common sense and it’s certainly in we hold up to other nations and it’s what us to get [it] through the United States keeping with any responsible interpreta- we take great pride in,” Senator Kerry told Congress. tion of . . . the Scriptures, the Torah [or] the gathering. “This effort is now supported by Jewish, the Koran. [We must] do a better job of “If this bill goes through,” Senator Christian, Muslim, Sikh and other faith meeting our responsibilities to protect Kerry said, “it will be a major success for organisations, and writing this into law is creation itself.” religious liberty. I think it’s a hallmark of a bit of a balancing act. That balance can Following Senator Kerry’s address, fi ve where we are as a nation—in codifying be found and should be found.” champions of religious liberty received people’s ability to truly and freely practise Senator Kerry also took the opportunity awards, including Sonja Dewitt, an in- their religions.” to link his concerns about the environ- vestigator who works at the Cambridge Three religious freedom outreaches ment with the evening’s religious-freedom Human Rights Commission, recognising sponsored by the Seventh-day Advent- theme. “Every faith shares a commonal- her mediatory work in cases of housing ist Church organised the dinner: Liberty ity, a universality of principle. All share a discrimination, public accommodation and magazine, the International Religious Lib- fundamental respect for the earth itself, of employment.—John Smith/ANN
◆ Unions have seized on the case beliefs,” he says. “But what we’re Day appeal. A total of 41 Christian her life.—Natalie Moses of a Sydney Hillsong Church wor- seeing is the fact that people who radio stations throughout Australia shipper denied a job for refus- actively participate in religious participated in the event, result- ◆ Want to give money to your ing to work on Sundays.Graham ceremonies and the like are not ing in the highest number of chil- favourite charity just by brows- Guy, who attends the Australian being given the opportunity to dren ever sponsored in one day ing the internet? GoodSearch. megachurch, rejected an Aus- do that.”—ABC News Online through Compassion Australia. com is a new search engine that tralian Workplace Agreement “We are absolutely rapt,” says Mr donates half its revenue to the for employment at a call centre ◆ Five years ago, Compassion Aus- O’Rourke. “The outcome went far charity of your choice. Powered requiring him to be available tralia CEO Paul O’Rourke dreamed beyond what I dreamed all those by Yahoo!, the site works just seven days a week. Unions New of 1000 children living in poverty years ago, and amazingly, this out- like any other search engine. If South Wales spokesman John around the world fi nding sponsors standing result is almost double 500 people conduct just four Robertson says the Federal Gov- in one day, through partnership the number of children sponsored searches a day, charities could ernment’s new workplace “fairness with Australian Christian radio sta- on Compassion Day last year.” Key raise more than $US7300 a year. test” should have a right-to-wor- tions. By midnight of Compassion to the day’s success was its host, The Adventist Development and ship clause. “It’s not reasonable to Day, May 17, his dream came true sponsor-child Vaniza Apostol from Relief Agency is a listed charity put in place laws that don’t allow as 1239 children were sponsored the Philippines, who shared her on the site. people to exercise their religious through the annual Compassion story of how sponsorship changed More @ goodsearch.com
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6 June 16, 2007
2222 NNews.inddews.indd 6 55/6/07/6/07 99:45:51:45:51 AMAM news UN wakes up Church mum named NZ to religion “Mother of the year”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, USA WHANGAREI, NEW ZEALAND pleased she has fi nally had recognition be- cause she deserves it more than anyone.” he United Nations (UN) is wak- member of the Tikipunga Adventist Three years ago, Mrs Rouse was asked ing up to the role that religious or- Fellowship has been named New if she would care for an eight-year-old girl ganisations can play in meeting its Zealand’s “Mother with an intellectual handi- T goals—particularly in the area of A of the year.” Leanne cap and cerebral palsy. Miss social, development and peace issues. Rouse was announced as Rouse says her foster-sister “It’s intriguing that the UN has fi nally winner of the award on arrived in a wheelchair, discovered religion,” said Dr Jonathan Gal- Mother’s Day, May 13. with her hair shaved and lagher, UN representative of the Seventh- Mrs Rouse mothers her wearing clothes that were day Adventist Church. “In recent meetings, own four children—aged far too small for her. “Seeing particularly one on Interfaith Cooperation between 12 and 19—as well how she’s now developed for Peace, speakers have recognised the role as two foster-children with into a confi dent 12-year- faith organisations can play in improving special needs and as many old is a real testament to our world.” as four foreign exchange Mum’s commitment and “There is no better time than now for students at a time. She was passion for motherhood,” interreligious dialogue and peace,” said nominated for the award by New Zealand’s “Mother of she says. the Ambassador of the Philippines, Hi- her children but says it came the year,” Leanne Rouse. The “Mother of the year” lario G Davide, speaking at the Report as a surprise. award included a cash prize on Interreligious Dialogue held at the UN “I was so shocked that I had been nomi- and a day’s worth of work around the fam- on April 18. nated,” she says. “When I read the nomina- ily home. “I was going to spend the money Emmanuel Kattan, of the Alliance of tion letters the kids had written, it brought on the kids,” says Mrs Rouse, “but they in- Civilisations, promoted the importance me to tears. To know they feel this way has sisted I spend it on myself.” of cross-cultural understanding and inter- made me feel very humbled.” As well as media reports of the award, faith dialogue. “Religious communities are According to her daughter, Jayme-Lee, Mrs Rouse will be featured in an upcom- sustaining concrete roles in education, with Mrs Rouse is a “supermum,” who deserves ing issue of the New Zealand Woman’s youth and in the media. The contribution the award. “She’s my role model,” says Miss Weekly.—The Northland Advocate/Mal- of religious non-government organisations Rouse, “and I’m so proud of her. I’m so colm Ford has to be realised and built on.” Commenting on how the perceived role of religious organisations is changing, Pastor Rajmund Dabrowski, director of SAC students say thanks communications and public relations for the General Conference, noted a rising STRATHFIELD, NEW SOUTH WALES interest in the contribution of religious organisations. “From a communication tudents from Sydney Adventist Col- perspective, many multinational organisa- lege (SAC) celebrated the National tions are realising that faith communities Day of Thanksgiving on May 25 play a vital role in their communities and S by thanking others. The day began can contribute much to the development with students writing thankyou cards to of society,” he said. staff members, family and friends during SAC students visited Burwood “It is worth noting that the UN is also their roll-marking period. police station to say thanks. recognising that the church can play this On behalf of the college community, a and offi cers at Burwood Local Area Com- role. Of course, unlimited religious infl u- group of students provided the staff of Bur- mand presented the students with a certifi - ence over the UN would be counter-pro- wood police station with morning tea. cate of appreciation in response. ductive. However, the new-found open- “I was happy to see that our small ges- “The annual National Day of Thanks- ness to the role played by organisations ture of gratitude to the police offi cers could giving gives a wonderful opportunity to of faith should be commended,” Pastor make such a difference,” says SAC captain recognise those whom we may take for Dabrowski said.—Adventist News Net- Jennifer Latu. granted,” commented SAC chaplain Pastor work staff The students toured the police station Kevin Robinson.—Grace Rosales
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2222 NNews.inddews.indd 7 55/6/07/6/07 99:45:51:45:51 AMAM feature Training and empowering BY DAVID EDGAR
outh Pacific Division president to work was at their own door- Pastor Laurie Evans says the church steps, not the wall on the other in Australia is behind the rest of the side of the city. I’m not against S world when it comes to empower- helping out overseas, but we ing and releasing members for ministry. are all called to evangelise in Record caught up with Pastor Evans at our own backyards; we need the South Queensland Conference’s “Maxi- to make sure the gospel wall is training” weekend—a biannual “training secure where we live. Not only for ministry” event—held May 5 to 7. can we offer our neighbours an incredible gift, we are close by Why is it important for you to participate to look after them when they South Pacifi c Division president, Pastor Laurie Evans. in training programs such as this? join God’s church. Training and developing our leaders at Retention and reclamation of our church church in places like Australia? local church level is a paramount issue. It members is vital because we are losing too The church in Australia is a product of is vital because the local church is where many out the back door. We’re not holding its environment. We’re a highly secular mission is done. Therefore, the opportu- those we win and so the General Confer- country and very materialistic—and that nity for me to be a part of that—casting a ence places major emphasis on this. We impacts on the witness of the church. So I vision for that—is important as far as I’m need to evangelise but we need to spend understand the pressures and diffi culties concerned. just as much time ensuring we nurture our the church, particularly in Australia, has members and work with those who have in growing. You’re presenting workshops on per- drifted away from the church. But we’ve got to make sure it doesn’t sonal Bible study this weekend. Does this become a mental barrier for us because the help keep you connected with the local Are training programs such as this a power of the gospel can penetrate all kinds church? new trend or has it been around for quite of environments. We’ve got to accept that I preach nearly every Sabbath in churches a while? through God’s enabling power we can ad- or regional meetings. I do it, not so much In places like the South American and dress the hundreds and thousands of people because I think people are blessed by my Inter-American Divisions and many places living in the secular world who are search- preaching, but more because I am blessed in Africa, training programs empowering ing for hope. I believe many people are tired by being where the people are. church members have been in place for of the things this world offers and we have I like to keep in tune with the pulse of many years now and that’s why these places something that can fi ll this vacuum. We’ve the church at the point where it matters have such tremendous growth. The church just got to be brave enough to launch out most. Our essential work has to be done, members are taking ownership of the mis- and perhaps fi nd some different ways to primarily, by local church leaders because sion of the church; they drive the witness of present our message. there’s no way to provide enough ministers the church. In South America, for instance, One of the keys to presenting our mes- to care for all our churches. their slogan is “Evangelism isn’t a program, sage is ensuring that everybody within the This means we need to train our local it’s a way of life for all of our people.” the local church is made to feel they are a members, our elders and other local leaders. valuable contributor to some aspect of the We need to empower them and we need to Do you think some pastors have trouble church’s life and witness. Everyone should affi rm them because they are the ones who empowering members in this way? be given something to do and feel that what are going to take the mission of the church I think we struggle a bit in that area and they are doing is making a real contribu- into the local community in the future. with good reason—we’re protective of the tion. With a united effort and a desire to interests of the church. However, we have tap into the power God has promised us, In your presentation, you highlighted to come to the place where we must trust we can make a difference here in Australia. Nehemiah’s insistence that they rebuild church members to preserve our values and I really believe that. R the part of the wall closest to their own teachings because my experience is that they house. How is this methodology relevant are ready to go. They are ready to accept to us in 2007? the responsibility to fi nish the work—they David Edgar is director of We can fi nd many lessons from Nehe- just want permission. communications for the South miah, but the one that strikes me is when Queensland Conference, based in Brisbane, Queensland. he told the people the most productive place Do you see any obstacles to growing our
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Grace BY DUANE A VACHON
he great central theme of the were given as God’s ideal standard, toward is not the case, grace is not grace. Once we Bible is grace—God’s favour to un- which we should never stop striving. They try to organise it and create a “worthiness deserving people and an undeserving also show us the distance between God system” or “merit system” for it, we have T world. God’s love is literally unac- and us. We all stand on level ground be- destroyed the possibility of grace. countable. It can’t be put in any ledger of fore God: murderers and temper-tantrum Christianity, in its early years, was much accounts. Yet the mindset of merit—buy- throwers, adulterers, lusters, thieves and more attuned to the radical nature of God’s ing, selling and earning—is hard to shake. coveters. As we have all fallen from the mercy. After it became the offi cial religion Until you can give up that way of think- law—the ideal God set for us—there is of the Roman Empire in 313 AD, these ing, you cannot understand the concept of only one answer left for us: grace. concepts changed quickly. Grace and for- grace—or truly experience it. giveness became politicised, legalised and We live in an imperfect world yet are Those who practise organised. We think we have the measur- called, as a Christian community, to be ing gauge to fi nd who’s in and who’s out. open to God’s grace; to build the kingdom legalism will always We begin to fi nd ways to earn grace, jump- of God by being instruments of God’s jus- fail; they can’t be ing through the correct hoops. Yet that tice, mercy, truth and freedom. Jesus came distorts the very concept of grace. to bring life, to set us free from sin and “legal” enough. The perennial temptation for the church death, and to lead us back to the Father. is to become a comfortable club, rather The Holy Spirit guides us and empowers Those who practise legalism will always than a centre of grace, healing and salva- us to be agents of reconciliation. fail; they can’t be “legal” enough. But Jesus’ tion. If Jesus Christ and His gospel are not Jesus did not lower God’s ideal, but He message of redemption is clear: none of at the centre of church life, it will quickly did give us absolute grace. He forgave those us is the sum total of the acts—good or become irrelevant. who nailed Him to the cross. Peter denied bad—we have done. People are called to respond to what God Him but Jesus was to make Him a stand- We are created in the image and likeness in His grace is doing for them; they are out leader in His church. He forgave an of God. As a people of faith, we believe that accountable to Him for the life they live adulteress and a thief on a cross. grace transforms even the most hardened in response—and this is where we see a Anything that makes us feel comfort- and cruel human beings. And, if the Spirit remarkable difference. Christian legalists able with God’s moral law, that makes of God has given you a realisation of what tend to refl ect the quality of their intellect. us feel that “at last we have arrived” is a you are apart from the grace of God, you Christians who live by their faith, basing it cruel deception. It is the work of Satan. know there is no criminal who is half so on grace, refl ect the quality and condition We cannot obey enough laws or ever be bad in actuality as you know yourself to of their soul. R good enough to earn heaven—it comes be in possibility. only with grace. Much of the New Testament is devoted But if we can’t ever achieve all of God’s to telling us that our salvation is a free gift Duane Vachon writes from Richlands, laws, why did He give them to us? They from God. Nobody can claim credit. If this Queensland.
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2222 FFeatures.inddeatures.indd 9 55/6/07/6/07 99:44:10:44:10 AMAM feature Three reasons not to have a devotional life
BY MORRIS VENDEN lan never intended to over- sleep. He had set his alarm for 6.30 as usual but had been up late A the night before. When the alarm went off, he woke just enough to push the “off” button and then went back to sleep. The next time he woke up, it was 7.55, and his fi rst class was a fi ve-minute dash across campus. Now please don’t misunderstand. Alan really believed in the importance of get- ting dressed in the morning—and shaving, brushing his teeth and combing his hair. But there simply wasn’t time. The teacher of his 8 am class would not have excused his absence or tardiness and furthermore, he had a test that morning. So, as much as he hated to do it, Alan jumped from his bed, grabbed his books and papers and rushed lem? Is it lack of time? No. Each of us has I would encourage you to make time for out the door in his pyjamas. He slid into 24 hours in a day. We don’t lack time; we God—beginning today! his seat just as the bell rang. lack motivation. Have you ever met Alan? I’ve spent When we say we don’t have time for 2. It’s just righteousness much of my life in or around the classroom. something, we are really saying we don’t by works! I’ve seen thousands of students, and never consider it that important. We all have time Whenever a discussion comes up about once has a student come to class in their for what we think is most important. Lack the devotional life of the Christian and pyjamas! Somehow, no matter how busy of time is not an excuse for anything. The the importance of spending time day by they are, no matter how late they get up in things you have time for are the things day with God in His Word and in prayer, the morning, no matter how important the you value most and the things you do not someone always asks, “Isn’t it possible for class, every student I’ve known has been have time for are the things you fi nd less the devotional life to become just another able to adjust his or her schedule in such a important. It’s just that simple. works trip?” way as to show up fully dressed! Jesus pointed this out to Martha when Let’s make one thing clear: righteous- And this brings me to the fi rst reason peo- He was a guest in her home. She didn’t ness comes by faith in Jesus Christ alone. ple give for not having a devotional life. have time to sit at His feet—and she didn’t Nothing we do can earn or merit our think Mary had time either! Never mind salvation. 1. I don’t have that Mary was having a personal interview However, we must accept salvation in enough time! with the Son of God. The important thing order to benefi t from it. Jesus’ sacrifi ce I hear it over and over again: people say on Martha’s mind was to get dinner on the was adequate for the salvation of the entire they can’t have a regular devotional life table. So Jesus reminded her of what was world. But not all will accept it and we must with God because they don’t have time. necessary and what wasn’t. “Martha, Mar- do so every day. The purpose of coming to But I’ve noticed we all fi nd time to take tha,” He said, “you are worried and upset Christ on a daily basis is to accept anew His a shower, usually several times a week. We about many things, but only one thing is grace, power and salvation for today. So a fi nd time to dress and groom ourselves needed. Mary has chosen what is better, devotional life is not a matter of merit. It’s every day. We fi nd time to eat our meals and it will not be taken away from her” a matter of method. three times a day. Yet we fail to fi nd time (Luke 10:41, 42*). But the question of whether the devo- to put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness Our eternal welfare depends on the tional life is just another system of works and eat the Bread of Life. What is the prob- use we make of our time during this life. has another dimension. The devotional life
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is not a matter of works but it can be work and sometimes even a fi ght! That’s an important distinction. Many things in the Christian life are gifts. But there is one thing that is not a gift. God has never promised to seek Himself for us. He has never promised to accept Himself for us. He has never promised to get acquainted with Himself for us. All of the Christian life is not spontaneous. At times it may be a joy to seek Jesus for personal fellowship and communion. Other times it may take every ounce of willpower, self-discipline, grit and determination you possess. Paul calls it the “fi ght of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). The Bible does not teach a passive religion. We humans have a part to accomplish in cooperating with God for our recovery and in working out our own salvation. 3. It doesn’t work! I hear it over and over again: “I’ve tried the devotional life and it didn’t work for me.” I ask, “What do you mean? Weren’t you able to become better acquainted with Jesus by spending time in studying His life? Did you fi nd that spending time with the Word of God and in prayer didn’t lead you to communication with God? Did you decide that the effort involved to set aside that thoughtful hour with Him day by day wasn’t worth it? What didn’t work?” Almost inevitably the answer is: “I found I still had to struggle with temptation. I still made some of the same mistakes I had made before. I tried a relationship with God and it didn’t work.” Jesus said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—fi rst the stalk, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear” (Mark 4:26–28). We don’t expect to grow a garden, rear children, get an educa- tion or learn to play a musical instrument overnight. But many of us expect to become mature, victorious Christians instantly. We must become willing to wait for the development of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Our relationship with Jesus is not based on our behaviour. So if our behaviour causes us to become discouraged with our rela- tionship, then we know we have been in some way counting on our behaviour for acceptance with God. Anyone who expects to be accepted and saved by his or her own works in any way is a legalist. Victory over sin and power for obedience will never come from within us. If we ever hope to obey, we must come to Jesus for His righteousness. That’s why we must have a devotional life. The one thing you should never do, if you fi nd yourself a defeated Christian, is to quit the devotional life. So if you’ve neglected your devotional life, I urge you to re-es- tablish it today. Make the time! Make the effort! And don’t let your moral failures stop you because a consistent devotional life is your surest way to maintain the relationship with Jesus that will lead you to victory. R
*Bible quotations are from the New International Version.
Morris Venden is a retired pastor and veteran Adventist
speaker and author. Taylor Peta
June 16, 2007 11
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how to look after the earth, and become pushed not by ruling politicians but by those More than ADRA Adam’s good helpers when he gets his aspiring to be rulers. One could ask why. If original job back looking after the restored one is alarmed by the current thinking, I ELIZABETH YAP, NSW Garden of Eden. Let’s not kid ourselves we suggest reading and believing Genesis 8:22 While we are pleased to support ADRA are going to save this earth because we can’t before believing today’s experts. and are proud of the work they do in Aus- in good conscience believe in that. Where rainforest has been cleared re- tralia and around the world (“When dis- cently, these soils are being used to feed aster strikes,” Editorial, May 19), certain ROBYN DONALDSON, NZ the starving millions with crops like soya areas are out of their reach. As a result, it While I agree with much of “An incon- beans, citrus and corn. These crops can be is necessary for church members to step venient moral truth,” it’s a pity the article’s grown cheaper in Brazil, where there is into the breach. title aligned it with Al Gore’s documentary, good soil and available water. A case in point is the recent tsunami in much of which was fi lled with inaccuracies Many Adventists are quoting Revela- the Solomon Islands, where some Advent- and misinformation. tion 11:18 to convince others that Jesus is ists lost their lives and signifi cant dam- The scientifi c community does not agree returning to destroy coalminers, farmers, age was done to church-owned property. ADRA is not in a position to replace or refurbish churches, schools or offi ce build- A genuine concern for humanity ings, neither can they single out individual demands the inquiry, accuracy and Adventists and provide extensively for their needs. scepticism that are intrinsic to science. As Christians in an affl uent country, we are surely obliged to do our best to help that “the earth is becoming hotter due to land clearers and the like. He is not. It is sin our fellow brothers and sisters in a situ- human activity.” Solar activity is a greater and sinners that are destroying the earth, ation where ADRA is limited in what it driver of climate change than human-made and all of us are sinners and should be de- can do. carbon dioxide, argues Ian Plimer, Profes- stroyed. The gospel teaches the only way sor of Mining Geology at the University of of escape is through applying John 3:16, 17. Adelaide. He states: “I think we really are This is the prophecy my faith is based on, Heated discussion a little bit naive to think we can change not today’s theorists. astronomical and solar processes.” EMMA CAMPBELL, NSW Professor Plimer said he has researched Thank you for “An inconvenient moral the history of the sun, solar and superno- Where is God? truth” (Feature, May 19). “Earth minis- vae activity, and had been able to correlate try”—as the article so beautifully put it— global climates with solar activity. He went LEONIE DONALD, NZ was humanity’s fi rst mission. Thank you on to say, “It is extraordinarily diffi cult to So it goes—month after month, year for putting it back on the agenda! argue that human-induced carbon dioxide after year—the arguments about music has any effect at all”. that should or should not be played in PETER TUNG, VIC Professor Reiter said, “Alarmists use the church (“Music at church,” Letters, May I applaud the call to Christians to be language of science to manipulate public 26). My question is: “Where is God in all environmentally responsible in “An in- perceptions by judgmental warnings.” To this?” convenient moral truth.” We must accept me, it seems we have fallen into this trap. The hours and hours on Friday night this moral imperative without reservation. A genuine concern for humanity demands spent practising songs and rehearsing music The article’s advocacy of various “green” the inquiry, accuracy and scepticism that are for Sabbath worship—is that what God strategies, however, does not go far enough intrinsic to science. A public that is unaware gave us the sacred Sabbath hours for? in representing the Christian’s belief sys- of this is vulnerable to abuse. So much in our Western society is done tem. We must go beyond the evolutionary for pleasure; and if music is chosen simply beliefs of most environmentalists. PETER WILLIAMS, QLD for the reason of pleasing the congregation, But I can’t shrug off the concerns of I write in response to “An inconven- then the fi rst commandment—“Thou shalt those who feel “the earth is doomed any- ient moral truth” as one not converted to have no other gods before me” (Exodus way.” Though I would add that we will, the global-warming conspiracy. I can re- 20:3, KJV)—is broken. according to God’s promise, have a whole member the scare tactics used to frighten new earth to live in; therefore, we need to us into believing in the coming ice age Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent develop habits of being environmentally in the 1970s, atomic annihilation in the those of the editors or the denomination. Letters caring in the present. After all, habits are 1980s and the millennium meltdown of should be less than 250 words, and writers must include their name, address and phone number. All the building blocks of character, and char- 2000. All these non-events were used to letters are edited to meet space and literary require- acter is the only thing we can take with us make money for those clever enough to ments, but the author’s original meaning will not be to heaven. be involved. changed. Not all letters received are published. See Therefore, let’s use our time now to learn In the main, the current theory is being masthead (page 2) for contact details.
12 June 16, 2007
2222 LLetters.inddetters.indd SSec1:14ec1:14 55/6/07/6/07 99:46:45:46:45 AMAM noticeboard Anniversaries Volunteers! Greive, James and Lorna (nee Guilliard) Homecoming were married on 3.4.1947 in the old Casual Staff—Adventist Alpine Village. Reminisce. Worship. Relax.* Wahroonga church by Lorna’s father, Casual staff needed for Adventist Al- Pastor E H Guilliard. They recently pine Village, Jindabyne, NSW, during celebrated their 60th wedding anniver- the winter season. For more informa- sary with their family members. James tion please contact David on
Email:
+61 2 9847 3275
* It just won’t be the same without you. and Lorna spent 30 years in Warburton, where James cared for the dental needs allaro and Francesca Cavallaro (Sydney, Worship of people from near and far. After 10 NSW), were married on 15.4.07 in the Vespers, Sabbath school and worship service, years at Loma Linda University in Cali- Wahroonga Adventist church, Sydney plus citations and Outstanding Alumni Award. fornia, James and Lorna moved back to Frank Tassone the Lake Macquarie area and are now retired in Alton Villas, Cooranbong. Kaylor—McNeill. Christian Kaylor, son The Idea of North in concert They have four children, 10 grandchil- of Wolfgang and Bettina Kaylor, and The quality of the Idea of North’s sound and arrange- dren and two great-grandchildren. Emily McNeill, daughter of David and ments will impress. The endearing sense of humour of Jane McNeill (Macksville, NSW), were each member of the quartet will entertain. Mackay, Pastor Ferg and Elsie, were married on 9.1.07 at Fairfield on the married on 5.4.1947 in Kempsey, NSW. banks of the Yarra River, Melbourne, The couple recently celebrated their 60th Vic. Tim Kingston Early bird discount wedding anniversary with family and Register by June 30 for 10 per cent discount. friends at Cooranbong, where they now live in Alton Villas. During nine years of literature evangelism and 23 years of Obituaries pastoral ministry, the Mackays worked Cockersole-Jones, Edith May (nee Mar- August 24-26, 2007 in north NSW, north Qld, SA, WA and tin), born 24.5.1916 at Staffordshire, Kiribati, and in retirement in Zimba- England; died 25.4.07 at Rossmoyne, WA. On 1.8.36 she married Alf Cock- Lily Jackson; brother, Peter; and neph- bourne, Vic); and her brothers, Greg and ersole, who predeceased her in 1986. ew, Andrew. Tom will be sadly missed Lyndon (Melbourne). Jodi was loved by On 26.5.07 she married John Jones, who by his family and Fairfi eld church mem- all who knew her. She was a gentle and predeceased her in 2004. She is survived bers. kind mother, daughter and sister. by her daughters, Yvonne Whitmore Frank Tassone, Walter Flamenco Tony Campbell (Port Stephens, NSW), and Valerie Trounson (Merredin, WA). Her life was Jensen, Rex Mayne, born 4.7.1918 in Mel- Modernel, George William, born 9.1.1952 a wonderful testimony of patience, love bourne, Vic; died 15.5.07 in Box Hill at Montevideo, Uruguay; died tragically and happiness. Now she rests until the Hospital. In 1942 he married Dorothy on 15.4.07 at Central Coast, NSW. On Resurrection morning. Phil Rhodes Cummings in the Auburn church. He is 8.3.1980 he married Joana. He is sur- survived by his wife (Nunawading, Vic); vived by his wife; his children, Andrew, bwe, Vanuatu, and north NSW. They Denne, Maud Nelly, born 1.6.1920 in his sons and their families, Philip and Timothy, Jeremiah and Rebekah; his have three daughters, Coralyn Eddy Maritius; died 17.4.07 at Port Mac- Christel (Mansfi eld), Noel and Rhon- mother, Olga Alegre; his brother, Harry; (Newcastle), Marilyn Mackay (Sydney) quarie, NSW. On 11.6.54 she married da (Blackburn). Rex was dedicated to and his sister, Judy Alonso. and Kay Humble (Pacific Adventist Leslie, who predeceased her in 2003. Christian service. With his wife, Dor- Rein Muhlberg University, PNG); three grandchildren; She is survived by her brother-in-law, othy, he became involved in all areas and two great-grandchildren. Rowland Tarling (Hornsby); and her of the church, especially youth. No-one Paul, Bradley John, born 18.8.1979 at three nephews, Kenneth Walker (Bin- could beat him in table tennis. Batemans Bay, NSW; died 30.3.07 at gara), Stewart Walker (Kenthurst), and Ken Mead Newcastle as a result of a tragic car ac- Lowell Tarling (Katoomba). cident. Brad is survived by his parents, Weddings Joseph Maticic McCusker, Edna Evelyne May (nee Ken and Deborah Paul (Batemans Bay); Clarke—Kingston. Dean Robert Clarke, Adam), born 10.10.1920 at Christchurch; his brothers, Jason and Jamie; his sis- son of Robert and Lois Clarke (Nam- Dickens, Brian Mitchell, born 9.6.1928 died 3.5.07 in Christchurch Hospital. ter, Cassandra; and sister-in-law, Lau- bour, Qld), and Rebecca Jane Kingston, at Chatswood, NSW; died 7.4.07 in the In 1946 she married Walter McCusker, ren. Loved and missed by all his family, daughter of Andrew and Janette King- John Flynn Hospital, Tugun, Qld. He is who predeceased her in 2002. She was extended family and friends. In God’s ston (Honiara, Solomon Islands), were survived by his wife, Margaret; his chil- also predeceased by one of her four sons hands ‘til we meet again. married on 13.5.07 in Greenway chapel, dren, Jane, Mitchell, Katrina and Fiona; in 1985. She is survived by her sons and John Tompson Green Point, NSW. Graeme Loftus and their families. Brian was a commit- their families, Ross and Denise, Bruce ted Christian who loved his Lord and and Jenny, Graham and Chrissie; and Peters, Shirley Maud (nee Plahn), born Fourie—Steyn. Ettienne Fourie, son of the church greatly. He and Margaret her sister, Thelma Wooller. Edna will be 22.5.1931 at Rockhampton, Qld; died Chris and Amanda Fourie (Auckland, supported the work of the church for remembered as a wonderful people-per- 27.4.07 in the Rockhampton Base Hos- NZ), and Christine Steyn Grant, daugh- many years and now Brian rests until the son, who was loved by neighbours and pital. She was predeceased by her hus- ter of Herman (Wellington) and Elna Lord returns to claim his own. Family all who knew her. She had a contagious band, Vincent, in 1991. She is survived Steyn (Port Elizabeth, South Africa), and friends attended the service in Bur- love for the Lord and a wonderful zest by her fi ve sons and their wives, Lance, were married on 22.5.07 at Kumeu, leigh Gardens church on 16.4.07 to bid for life. Allan Hedges Rodney and Anne, Paul and Char- Auckland, NZ. Gary Webster their fi nal farewells. Brian will be sadly lotte, David and Jacqui, and Vincent; missed. Geoff Donovan, Bruce Price McPaul, Jodi Joy, born 24.8.1973 in her daughter, Maxine; and son-in-law, Hain—Booker. James Phillip Booker, Brisbane, Qld; died 3.5.07 in Frankston Kerrod Harris and their families (in- son of Leslie Hain and the late Cicely Jackson, Thomas Richard, born 18.9.1942 Hospital, Vic. She is survived by her cluding nine grandchildren and one Hain, and Connie Booker (nee Caval- at Fairfi eld, Sydney, NSW; died at home son, Tahge (Sydney, NSW); her par- great-grandchild); her two sisters, Hazel laro), daughter of the late Salvatore Cav- 11.4.07. He is survived by his mother, ents, Wayne and Noeleen McPaul (Mel- Marsh and Joyce Jones; and her brother,
June 16, 2007 13
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OFS) S1BSU FMQJO 0V H" F WP PN OE THE EDUCATION MEDAL FD B MF• Australian Union Conference # Nominations are invited for a recipient of the Education Medal to be awarded by the Australian Union Conference Board of Education. The Education Medal is intended to give due recognition to INCREA$ED PERSONAL an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Adventist education in Australia. It may be given RATE$! S ERVICE to a professional educator or to any individual whose outstanding interest and involvement in Adventist education is worthy of special acknowledgment. Nominations of potential recipients to receive the Education Medal will be studied by a subcommittee of the National ACF Investments LT D Board of Education. The subcommittee will then make recommendations to the Australian Union Conference 26 YEARS OF SERVICE Board of Education. Nominations must be submitted by 27 July 2007. Please refer to our website to view the criteria that $50 MILLION IN DEPOSITS shall be taken into account when awarding the Education Medal—
14 June 16, 2007
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June 16, 2007 15
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