August 30, 2008 In this issue NZ churches pray, help strugglers
First baptisms on Wallis Island
Adventist–Muslim conversations Hosts Robyn and Pastor Chester Stanley (left) interview Wendy and Pastor Justin Lawman as part of The Most Important Sermon, one of 11 series produced by “Project Hope—Australia.” TV “Project” shares Hope with the world Ringwood, Victoria
leven series of Australian-produced have our regular city-wide programs, programs will be coming to Hope with a specific date and length—and it Channel’s broadcast schedule around comes and goes. ‘Project Hope’ follows the world after six weeks of filming this model, so we have a specific date for E“Project Hope—Australia.” The joint it and we engage production teams. But venture between Hope Channel and the at its conclusion, instead of an evangelist Australian Union Conference (AUC) has having come and gone, we now have con- seen church leaders, pastors and members textualised programming that has life for Offerings to working together to create the programs years on the Hope network.” at an adapted studio at Jumbunna Lodge Pastor Chester Stanley, president of the in Victoria’s Yarra Valley. AUC, says Hope Channel approached the fund mission “I like to think of ‘Project Hope’ as a type AUC about hosting “Project Hope” late of evangelistic program,” explains Kan- last year. “The AUC has been responsible dus Thorp, executive director of “Project for uplinking Hope Channel in Australia partners Hope.” “Traditionally, as Adventists, we (Continued on page 4) ISSN 0819-5633 editorial
So many people around us have been hurt in the name of religion. We, the objections
hether we like it or not, when interacting with various Christian the poor and the lonely, we will ask them to we—at least in a general artists, salesmen and church members. He forgive us, and we will tell them that in our sense—are among the most describes one prominent Christian author selfishness, we have misrepresented Jesus.” common objections to Christi- going to “such an effort to distinguish him- Apology seems a better first response to these Wanity. By we I mean Christians ourselves— self from those other, really crazy, Christians.” objections to Christianity. and our sad histories of wars, crusades, This repeated response did not impress Ra- But the response of trying to distance our- abuse, hypocrisy, meanness, prejudice, fear dosh—and it probably isn’t as convincing as selves from “those Christians” also falls short and self-serving. Perhaps it isn’t so different we think it should be in our conversations because it so quickly dismisses the real pain from the general history of our world and with friends and neighbours. that person feels in connection with our faith. our societies but it shows darker in contrast It is an inadequate response, first, because We want them to listen to us without us first with our claims and calling to be God’s it isn’t true. In so many ways, we are like listening to them. When these people object people in this world. Even non-believers “those Christians.” To varying degrees, we to the faith we might be trying to share with seem to expect us to do better. have similar histories of prejudice, abuse, them, they are not necessarily rejecting the Almost inevitably, a conversation about hypocrisy, meanness and self-serving as any good news we hold dear, so much as the re- religion with a non-Christian will eventu- other human organisation. The veneer of ligion they have seen and experienced. We ally arrive at this objection. And while the “Sabbath best” barely covers many tragic and need to learn to listen better—and then we big, dark spots of Christian history will disappointing stories. This does not mean we might be better able to share something that often be mentioned, the personal experienc- are satisfied with being that way, and that will be received as good. es are more strongly felt—or the negative action is not being taken and safeguards put We also need to remember that while we experiences of someone they care about. It in place to reduce the risks of these kinds of see important differences between Christian may be a traumatic memory from a church- behaviours—but nonetheless, they are part groups and denominations, few people out- run boarding school, a family rift sparked of what we are. To argue otherwise simply side Christianity appreciate or understand by religious differences, a Christian who adds dishonesty to our other failings. the variations in beliefs and practices. They ripped them off financially or some kind In Blue Like Jazz, Donald Miller tells of only see Christians who are different if they of abuse from a religious leader they had an outreach venture on a secular university actually see people who are different. trusted. So many people around us have campus in which a group of Christian stu- This is about living our faith in real been hurt by or in the name of religion. dents set up a confessional booth. When a and practical ways: “Be careful how you Our first reaction to such objections is visitor enters, the Christian humbly asks live among your unbelieving neighbours. to say something like, “Well, we’re differ- them to accept their confession and apology Even if they accuse you of doing wrong, ent. We’re not like those Christians.” It’s on behalf of Christianity. In their planning, they will see your honourable behaviour, something I’ve found myself beginning to they explain their confession: “We are going and they will believe and give honour to say—and have tried to stop myself. to confess that, as followers of Jesus, we have God when he comes to judge the world” In researching his book, Rapture Ready: not been very loving; we have been bitter, (1 Peter 2:12, NLT). Adventures in the Parallel Universe of Chris- and for that we are sorry. We will apologise tian Pop Culture, journalist Daniel Radosh for the Crusades, we will apologise for tel- regularly encountered this kind of response evangelists, we will apologise for neglecting Nathan Brown
Official Paper of the South Editor Nathan Brown Mail: Signs Publishing Company Pacific 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 Copyeditor Talitha Simmons Email Letters: [email protected] connect.org Editorial secretary Kristel Rae Email Newsfront: [email protected] Layout Kym Jackson Email Noticeboard: [email protected] Vol 113 No 33 Senior consulting editor Barry Oliver Subscriptions: South Pacific Division mailed within Cover: Hope Channel Australia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00. www.record.net.au Other prices on application. Printed weekly.
2 August 30, 2008 news Mission offerings fund mission partner work Wahroonga, New South Wales Australia, New Zealand and the island says Pastor Coombe. fields, and is increasing interest in mis- The other 50 per cent of the offerings ission projects selected by con- sion,” says SPD general secretary Pastor collected this year will go to assisting the ference partners will feature in Lawrence Tanabose. SPD in funding the relocation of Fulton camp mission programs during Not all missions have identified the spe- College. With the land-lease dispute and the 2008/2009 financial year. cific details of their projects for the year other problems, the Trans-Pacific Union MBuilding on the growing relationships yet but Morobe Mission is hoping to pro- Mission chose to relocate the college and developing between most conferences and vide much-needed accommodation in Lae restructure the educational program. A the mission partners, the South Pacific Di- for their single ministers; the Fiji Mission site has already been chosen for the col- vision (SPD) has decided to allocate 50 per hopes to develop a TV/video production lege (“Fulton College finds potential new cent of this year’s mission offering funds to facility to complement their successful site in Fiji,” News, July 19). projects within the partner missions. radio and Hope TV ministry; and Vanuatu SPD president Dr Barry Oliver says, “This opportunity will help strengthen Mission has identified building develop- “The relocation provides a providential op- the ties that are already developing and ments at the Kwataparen Junior Second- portunity to develop a university campus in give our members specific projects they can ary School on Tanna island, and a district Fiji for what will be part of a unified terti- raise funds for within the partner confer- director’s house and office on Malekula. ary system in the Pacific. It’s a huge project ence,” says director of Adventist Mission The Solomon Islands Mission is looking that will require much finance over the next for the SPD Pastor Ray Coombe. for funds to help operate their medical few years, and we’re looking for strong He reports there have already been a yacht, which takes health outreach teams support from church members.” number of positive exchange visits be- to island communities, and Kiribati Mis- Dr Barry Hill, director of Adventist tween several of the Pacific partners, sion are planning to purchase a PA system Education for the SPD, says, “Fulton has and now some churches and schools are for youth evangelistic outreach. been a vital part of our integrated tertiary identifying specific partners within the “These are very exciting mission projects education system in the Pacific and, as a relationship. that have a specific local focus,” says Pas- new campus, it will continue to train key Island visitors from the partner mis- tor Coombe. leaders and church workers.” sions will, in some cases, attend conference Some of these projects will provide A new mission offering pledge card has camp meetings and regional meetings this further opportunities for members in been designed for use at camps this year, year, to promote the needs of their mis- the partner conference to be involved in which features the current projects and sion and share stories of church growth fly ’n’ build visits and other “follow-up” gives members opportunity to contribute and evangelism. contact. by credit card charge, cheque or pledges, “This partnership program is bringing “I hope it will give renewed meaning as well as by a cash offering.—RECORD a new connection between our church in and focus to our camp mission offerings,” staff/Ray Coombe
the church and receiving treat- ◆◆On July 31, NED instruction, to teach ments by the students, under Pas- visited Prescott Pri- students how to tor Daniel McKibben’s (a former mary Northern, SA, develop three valu- professional massage therapist) accompanied by able characteristics close supervision. The church is Clyde Heath, a former involved in becom- going to advertise on the “Choose manager for NASA ing champions at ◆◆Royal Oak church, NZ, has Life” sign the NNZC Health Depart- Engineering for the school and in life. decided to step up their health ment has sponsored, and in the Shuttle Program and NED stands for: Never ministry, with a team of more than local media. Irene Marsters is also once the Spinning give up, Encourage 30 people training to become running the “Sit and Be Fit” pro- Top World Champion. NED, a life- others and Do your best. A proficient in using simple rem- gram, while the church also runs sized cartoon figure, is designed NED ZONE has been set up at edies popular around the world a clinic for pain and injuries, a Quit to encourage students to become school for students to practice and practised by alternative prac- Now program and other health “Champions for Christ” by devel- their yoyo skills during recess titioners. Modalities such as mas- seminars. All these programs will oping a godly character and aca- and lunch but they were encour- sage, chair massage, hydrotherapy be self- funding while providing demic excellence. The NED show aged to practice the NED motto and charcoal have been taught. an effective tool to reach people. combined yoyos and audience every moment of every day. Already patients are coming to —Daniel McKibben participation with solid biblical —Tim Borgas
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August 30, 2008 3 news TV “Project” shares Hope with the world (Continued from page 1) This is an opportunity God has given me and I’m going to find the time to plan and New Zealand because we believe for this.’ So I’m excited they did that, Hope has tremendous possibilities for and I think they’re pretty excited about nurturing the church, as well as evange- the project.” lism. Having invested so much in Hope, She says she has been impressed with we saw this as an opportunity to expand the depth and spirituality of the programs its interest and impact in this part of the produced in Australia. “Not only are the world.” people here in Australia going to love “Project Hope” has previously been seeing their own people but I think what conducted in Zambia, Kenya and the has been presented here is going to be a Philippines, with a number of Spanish blessing to many other people around series recently filmed in California and Hope TV’s Kandus Thorp (left) talks with children the world,” she reflects. “I think people on the set of God’s Storytellers, one of the plans to visit Bulgaria later this year. As Australian series produced by “Project Hope.” are going to be surprised by what they well as a cost-effective and contextu- see—and that’s good.” alised way to produce content for Hope to contribute to the wider church,” adds With the remainder to commence in TV’s seven current channels, these “Project Pastor Stanley. “A number of conferences the new year, the first series from “Project Hope” shoots are planned to demonstrate have already begun to establish media Hope” is planned to begin screening in Oc- that good quality programming can be units, so I see this as just the beginning of tober. The Most Important Sermon is hosted made with multi-million dollar studios and something that will continue to grow and by Pastor Stanley, with his wife, Robyn, and emphasises training local volunteers. develop. We have so much talent in our features interviews with 13 pastors—and “The team spirit we’ve had here in church and I think the sky’s the limit as to a number of their wives—from around ‘Project Hope—Australia’ with our volun- what we can do in the future.” Australia, as background to preaching one teers has been great,” says Mrs Thorp. “I’ve Mrs Thorp reports that some AUC lead- of their favourite sermons. been really impressed because people have ers were initially hesitant about getting Pastor Stanley also hosted a series titled taken their vacation time to be with us. I’m involved, “because everybody is kind of Amazing Stories of Amazing Grace, so might excited about the fact they’ve captured the reticent about getting on TV. his TV experience prompt a career change? mission and wanted to be involved.” “But I really appreciate them being “I’m not lining up at Channel 9,” he says. “I would like to see this as a catalyst in willing to step out of their comfort zone “It’s been all very new for us but an inter- opening the eyes of people around Austral- personally,” she adds. “Then to make the esting, albeit nerve-racking, experience. We ia—both technical and creative people—to time as church administrators to say, ‘This have learnt some new skills—but I think I’ll be able to make programs that will be able is a priority for my ministry at this time. keep my day job.”—Nathan Brown
less, it was a commendable result ◆◆With a briefcase too heavy to beginning of the year, where they for the school, which pleased Sci- carry, Diane Jackson enlisted the are enthused and given ideas for ence teachers Tim Allan and Chris help of one of the students to fundraising at individual schools. Gordon. Divided into groups, the bank the money. As the teacher- —Julene Duerksen-Kapao students worked to complete a coordinator for World Vision at number of problem-solving, crea- Longburn Adventist College, NZ, ◆◆At the Adventist Schools Vic- ◆◆On August 1, Avondale School, tive and applied activities. These Ms Jackson was thrilled that the toria annual conference in May, NSW, sent a team of Year 9 and 10 included building a sailing boat, students raised $NZ10,382.80 dur- inaugural awards were presented students to participate in Newcas- which was tested for speed over a ing Term 2. With creative projects, to teachers demonstrating excel- tle University’s Science and Engi- number of time trials, designing a like car washes and sausage sizzles, lence in their teaching practice. The neering Challenge Day. It was the hovercraft that aimed for optimum in addition to individual students’ award initiative was developed to seventh year Avondale has sup- speed and ability to cover rug- fundraising, LAC finished in the recognise the exceptional efforts of ported the program. Tough com- ged terrain, and various commu- top 30 schools in New Zealand for two full-time teachers in Advent- petition meant Avondale slipped nication challenges. The students funds raised. LAC students always ist Victorian schools. John Minett from the second place position enjoyed the hands-on elements of get involved and enjoy the proc- (right), of Gilson College, Taylors Hill, it maintained for the majority of science and engineering.—Susan ess. Senior students join a World won the award for a new teacher the day to finish fourth. Neverthe- Rogers Vision leadership camp at the with less than two years experi-
Days and offerings: ◆ August—Signs Month
4 August 30, 2008 news City2Surf runners NZ churches pray and help raise funds for ADRA struggling communities Sydney, New South wales Manukau, new Zealand cially,” says Ms Matthies. “It was a special lmost $A5000 was raised for the morning and there seemed to be a lovely Adventist Development and Relief n August 2, churches across New atmosphere when a whole congregation Agency (ADRA) Australia on Au- Zealand united in prayer for families comes together in prayer like that.” gust 10 in the Sun Herald City2Surf struggling financially due to rising The National Day of Prayer also provided Ain Sydney. The ADRA team had 45 sup- costs of fuel prices, mortgages and Pastor Craig Gillis, president of the South porters, an increase of 15 from the previ- rentO in the country. New Zealand Conference, with an oppor- ous year. The New Zealand Pacific Union Confer- tunity to connect with young people at the “It’s just great to see even more people ence (NZPUC), who initiated the National church’s youth rally at Pascoe Park. stepping up for the poor in this way,” said Day of Prayer, also urged churches to find “I invited the young people to divide into ADRA Australia’s donor relations officer practical ways to reach out to their local threes to pray,” says Pastor Gillis. “I asked Matthew Siliga, who also participated in community and help. two young boys, who looked too cool, to pray the run. “Distance is a measure of poverty North Harbour Adventist church in with me. I offered to pray, feeling that they because a lot of the world’s poor have to Auckland responded by appealing to mem- were not going to feel comfortable to pray travel huge distances just to access things bers to donate supermarket food vouchers themselves. However, after I finished my like clean water, food, health care and edu- or non-perishable food items. prayer, one after the other, these two young cation. Participating in something like the “We will be donating all food received guys prayed the most sincere and beautiful City2Surf means that, in some small way, we to the Salvation Army for distribution to prayers, on the behalf of the poor and suf- are connecting with their struggle.” needy families,” says church member Al- fering of the world. I was greatly humbled Greg Dawick from Sydney raised more thea Hanna. and encouraged.” than $A1000 and a group called Hope People In Christchurch, the speaker at St Martins Although the National Day of Prayer is collectively raised almost $A1200 for ADRA Adventist church, Ruth Matthies, integrated now over, the NZPUC is continuing to ap- Australia.—Candice Jaques prayer time into her talk on the Book of peal to churches to find ways to continue to Mark, where Jesus fed 4000 people. help and care for their local communities. “It was very appropriate to stop the ser- “Our communities need to see and experi- mon at 11.30 am, ask the congregation to get ence the love of Jesus and this is a perfect op- into groups of two and three, and pray for portunity to share it with them,” says Pastor the economy, the government decisions, and Jerry Matthews, president of the NZPUC. those who find it difficult to manage finan- —Melody Tan Some of the ADRA runners.
a community service award by to continue. The church also threw Their goal is to see like-minded South Waikato mayor Neil Sinclair. a surprise celebration for Mr Smith, individuals from all over the world Mr Smith has been a long-time vol- complete with a luncheon, a cake connect to share their faith expe- unteer with both St John’s Ambu- and a presentation showing high- riences and gain encouragement lance and the Putaruru Information lights of his life from the age of from each other’s journeys. The Centre. He first became involved four.—Pauline Downing/ South site provides opportunities for ence for 2007. Tony Robinson with St John’s in the late 1940s. Waikato News connecting with “buddies” in the (left), also of Gilson College, was Mr Smith was on St John’s com- Adventist church for networking, also teacher of the year for 2007, mittee and became president in ◆◆According to Tony at Advent chat and the like. In addition, the the award given to a teacher with 1962, serving in this position for a Planet, a new UK-based social site is full of useful resources for more than five years experience. remarkable 38 years until 2000. Mr networking site for Adventists, Adventists, including Christian —IntraVic Smith has also been the friendly the site has recently been given music reviews, Christian radio face of Putaruru for many visitors, supporting ministry status by the streaming, sermon outlines, ◆◆At his recent 90th-birthday cel- working in the information centre General Conference, so while they church management software ebrations at the Putaruru Informa- since its inception in 1994. He still operate independently, they nev- and ideas for women’s ministry. tion Centre, NZ, Tirau church head regularly takes shifts at the infor- ertheless support the beliefs and More @ www.adventplanet. elder Maurice Smith was given mation centre and says he is happy values of the Adventist Church. com
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August 30, 2008 5 news First baptisms on San Snax celebrates Wallis Island 35 years of service Wallis Island Wahroonga, New South Wales
or what is believed to be a first in the he Sydney Adventist Hospital’s history of the Seventh-day Adventist snack bar, San Snax, is celebrating its Church in the South Pacific, six peo- 35th year of operations this year. San ple have been baptised on Wallis Is- Snax is staffed entirely by volunteers Fland, a small island in the Pacific Ocean. (From left to right) Pastor Jean-Noel Adeline Tfrom the San Help Team. Money raised Church development director for the with the baptismal candidates, Pastor by the snack bar goes back into funding Jerry Matthews and Pastor Patrice Allet, New Caledonia Mission, Pastor Jean-Noel medical equipment and other resources for president of the New Caledonia Mission. Adeline, and a team of six, first started the hospital. Last year, it raised $A158,539 sharing Adventist beliefs with the people of “wolves in sheep’s clothing.” Some followers for the hospital. Wallis Island in December last year (“Ad- were threatened with the loss of jobs if they The longest-serving San Snax volun- ventist message heads to Wallis Island for persisted in attending Adventist meetings. teer is Nan Pryor, who has worked there the first time,” News, June 7). The outreach Almost all of the 10,000 inhabitants on Wallis for the past 34 years. She was motivated effort was made possible with Global Mis- Island are Roman Catholics, and Protestant- to help by the care given to her mother sion funding. ism is rarely practised or welcomed. when she was a patient at the hospital. “My The baptisms, held on July 20, were per- “With the amount of pressure and per- mum was sick and she got such wonder- formed by Pastor Jerry Matthews, president secutions during these past four months, ful responses from the nurses,” she says. of the New Zealand Pacific Union Confer- at times I wondered if there would be any “I was very grateful that they gave her the ence (NZPUC). baptismal results,” says Pastor Adeline. attention they did.” “The moment was so solemn and joyful “I praise and thank God for what He has Mrs Pryor says of the cafe, “It’s a place at the same time that, as the candidates came begun here in Wallis, especially in the lives where you really feel appreciated. People out of the water, a Wallisian song that we of these six dear souls.” come up to you and say, ‘Nice to see you!’ liked to sing came out spontaneously from Pastor Adeline, however, acknowl- It’s a really good place to be.” The biggest the small crowd who witnessed the event,” edges that “baptism is only the beginning change she’s seen has been the growth of says Pastor Adeline. of the Christian walk with the Lord,” the hospital, as well as the change from Seven more people have since expressed and appeals to church members across San Snax being a basic snack bar to a their intentions to be baptised. For Pastor the South Pacific to pray for the group modern eatery. Adeline, the baptisms were a miracle per- that has begun in Wallis, who will now The San Help Team currently has 384 formed by God. Intense local opposition be cared for by Pastor Fredy Taputu. members, who volunteer in various roles had seen the group referred to as a sect and —Melody Tan within the hospital.—Hornsby Advocate
◆◆Adrienne Townsend accept- a background in education and ing, the Adventist Development where priests have banned ed the oath of office and was psychology to her new position. and Relief Agency (ADRA) is dis- beggars from their grounds. officially sworn as the first -Sev Lieutenant Christopher Car- tributing food and personal items Clerics put a sign saying “No enth-day Adventist woman to michael, a Navy representative to more than 1300 survivors. Tor- begging” on the door of the serve as an active duty chap- from the Navy OfficerR ecruiting rential rains hit western Ukraine church in Sfantul Gheorghe, lain in the United States Navy on Station in East Lansing, Michigan, last month, leading government central Romania, after claim- July 24. Lieutenant Junior Grade presented Lieutenant Townsend officials to call it the worst storm ing they had been swamped Townsend said her four years with her presidential appoint. in a century. The region is suffer- by spongers. Father Sebas- as associate dean of women at Once stationed, her duties will ing from the after-effects of heavy tian Parvu said: “We used to Andrews University, US, prepared include leading worship services, rains that the Ukrainian Ministry get scores of beggars hang- her for chaplaincy and called her providing counselling and visi- of Emergency reports covered ing around outside every new post a “huge mission field,” tation services, and performing more than 40,000 homes and time there was a mass. It’s not where she could minister to sim- ceremonies such as weddings thousands of acres of farmland. allowed anymore.” “It doesn’t ilarly-aged young people. She and funerals.—ANN —ADRA/ANN staff seem a very Christian thing holds a Master of Divinity degree to do. These people need from the Adventist Theological ◆◆After thousands of Ukrainians ◆◆Charity certainly doesn’t help,” said one parishioner. Seminary at Andrews, and brings lost their homes to severe flood- begin at home at a cathedral —Ananova
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6 August 30, 2008 news Parliamentary secretary visits ADRA Australia The Shed becomes Wahroonga, New South a church Wales Yallah, New South Wales he Australian government’s parlia- mentary secretary for International n June 21, after nearly 10 years Development Assistance, Bob Mc- of operation, The Shed church Mullan, MP, visited the office of the plant became a church. South New TAdventist Development and Relief Agency South Wales Conference president (ADRA) Australia on August 12 as part OPastor Bob Manners and conference sec- of his engagement with non-government retary Pastor Norm Hardy led out at the development organisations. service to officially recognise The Shed’s Mr McMullan spent an hour with new status. Parliamentary Secretary Bob McMullan, ADRA Australia staff and board members, MP, (centre) discussed the Australian Past and present church members and discussing issues relevant to international government’s plans for international aid pastors attended on the day, which includ- aid. “I’m here to listen and respond to the with ADRA Australia staff, including CEO ed an afternoon presentation of photos and issues that agencies want to raise,” Mr Mc- Jonathan Duffy (left) and International discussion by Ross Chadwick, former pastor Mullan told staff. “The Australian govern- Program director Harwood Lockton (right). of The Shed. Pastor Chadwick was integral ment is now making decisions about what haven’t formally decided to, we are look- to the establishment of The Shed, as he set its international aid program will look like ing at giving more funding to NGOs,” said up an area of a warehouse he was using for in five years, so this is an important dialogue. Mr McMullan. The Australian government a second-hand furniture business to house There is no better time for aid agencies to currently gives 4 per cent of its aid budget the church plant. raise and discuss issues with us.” to Australian-based NGOs. Ray Whitehead, a founding member of Mr McMullan explained the government’s The AusAID-funded Church Part- the church, says, “The main focus of The immediate focus on three key areas of in- nership Program (CPP) in Papua New Shed company was to reach out to the un- ternational aid, before answering questions Guinea (PNG), which partners with seven churched in the community, while being a from staff and board members. The three Christian denominations including the user-friendly place of worship, following areas of particular interest to the Austral- Adventist Church to deliver health and the basic Adventist and biblical principles. ian government are a review of its relation- education services to communities in need, Within a year of its establishment, 70 peo- ships with non-government organisations was also discussed. “We acknowledge that ple were attending regularly, 60 per cent of (NGOs), a commitment to increasing the a lot of service provision happens through whom weren’t Adventists.” federal aid budget from 0.3 per cent of gross churches,” said Mr McMullan. “The CPP The church moved five times in its first national income to 0.5 per cent by 2015, and in PNG has been very successful by all ac- five years, which saw a decline in member- an increase in community engagement in counts. We’re interested in seeing if this ship. However, the church is now settled in international aid issues. model can be replicated.” ADRA Australia the Heininger Hall Dapto Ribbonwood Cen- The increase in the government’s inter- partners with ADRA PNG and the Papua tre. Under current pastor Murray Thack- national aid budget may also see an increase New Guinea Union Mission as part of this ham, the church has begun to grow again in funding to non-government agencies, project.—Candice Jaques and conducts regular outreach programs. such as ADRA Australia. “Although we More @ www.adra.org.au Pastor Rangi Eiao was recently appointed to assist Pastor Thackham, and they both hope to plant more churches in the south- New weather station now online ern Illawarra area.—RECORD staff/Ray Cooranbong, New South Wales located on the campus. One contains a stand- Whitehead ard manual rain gauge, measured by Dr n automatic weather station (AWS) Howard Fisher, dean of the Faculty of Arts built by the Bureau of Mete- and a senior lecturer in geography, at 9 am orology on Avondale College’s each day. The other contains a solar-powered Lake Macquarie campus is now automatic rain gauge, which transmits a sig- operational.A nal via radio waves to the bureau as part of The station measures temperature, hu- the state’s flood-warning network. midity, rainfall, air pressure, and wind Dr Fisher says having an AWS on cam- speed and direction each hour. It is located pus is good for the college. “If I were a stu- in a paddock on the southeast side of the dent, I’d be impressed,” he says.—Brenton campus, near an existing station. Stacey Some of The Shed’s original band The exisiting station is one of two already More @ www.avondale.edu.au members provided music for the day.
August 30, 2008 7 feature Adventist–Muslim conversations by WilLiam Johnsson
he world of Islam is changing before our eyes as Muslim leaders reach out in dialogue to Christians and Jews. Seventh-day Adventists Tare increasingly involved as invitees and are themselves initiating conversations with Muslims. Why would Adventists wish to be in- volved in these developments? And why would Muslims, given the large number of Christian bodies, be interested in meeting with a comparatively-minor player in the meetings, we should present our distinctive lief in creation rather than evolution; the Christian scene? The answers to these ques- beliefs graciously but clearly, winsomely expectation of and preparation for the Day tions give insights into the rapid changes but honestly, holding back nothing that we of Judgment; the Second Coming of Jesus taking place. stand for. To attempt to curry favour with Christ; and belief in prophetic messengers. From the Adventist side, the reasons the other party is to mislead and invite both Thus, Adventists have openings for fruit- for our engagement are simple. They short- and long-term disaster. ful conversations with Muslims that other boil down to one word: mission. We are Whether our conversations are with Christian churches do not. a world faith, with a distinct identity and other Christians or with followers of other mission—to declare God’s character and religions, our purpose is to have a genuine, Recent developments help prepare a people for the soon return mutual recognition of who we are—and we For many years, Adventists have been of Jesus Christ. Likewise, Islam is a world ourselves can best state that—the values we involved in cooperative endeavours with faith, with followers not only in countries seek and hold high, and why we seek the Muslims. In the Kingdom of Saudi Ara- stretching from Morocco to Indonesia but open scene and not obscurity. bia, the Loma Linda University heart increasingly in the traditional Christian These new conversations present us with team rendered much-appreciated service bases. Today, some five million Muslims new challenges. Muslims tend to paint all and Loma Linda still maintains contact live in France, representing 10 per cent of Christians with the same brush: in both through extension courses offered within the population. In the United States, Mus- lifestyle, as pork eaters and alcohol drink- the country. Likewise, in Afghanistan, lims number around 10 million. ers; and in geopolitical stance, as pro-Israel Adventist medical work has a long history Almost anywhere on the face of the and anti-Arab. A major goal for Advent- and, through Loma Linda personnel, plays globe, Adventists and Muslims occupy the ists is to show and explain that we are not a major role today. same ground. Muslims are our neighbours, just another Christian denomination; our In addition to such practical demonstra- not just followers of a far-off religion. As lifestyle is similar to Muslims in key areas; tions of Adventism, the church set up an servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is in- and we are an international, global com- Institute for Adventist-Muslim Relations. cumbent on us to interact with Muslims on munity of faith whose agenda is not driv- Its representatives have quietly spread the all levels, from the neighbour next door to en by the winds and directions of secular knowledge of who we are and what we official contacts. politics. We also want to convey that our stand for in the Islamic world. For many years, the Adventist Church has convictions about religious freedom—a One of the first Muslim initiatives for engaged in conversations with representa- topic of keen interest to Muslims in some dialogue in recent times originated in the tives of other churches. These encounters countries—leads us to encourage leaders of state of Qatar, on the Persian Gulf. For six have resulted in much good, as stereotypes all nations to permit adherents of minor- years in succession, the Ministry of Foreign have been broken down and misunder- ity faiths to build places of worship and Affairs and the Department of Sharia Stud- standings on both sides have been removed. assemble together. ies at the University of Qatar has sponsored On the Adventist side, a great benefit has While the differences of belief between an International Conference on Interfaith been the dropping of the false designation Adventists and Muslims—particularly over Dialogue. For the most recent meetings— of our church as a “cult” or “sect.” the person and work of Jesus Christ—are in 2007 and 2008—Adventists have been I have been involved in these interchurch major and are not to be dumbed down, invited to attend, with all expenses paid, conversations for more than 20 years and there are significant points of contact that and present papers. am convinced they are of significant value. I invite dialogue. Among these are the high With the release of the open letter, “A have also become persuaded that in all such regard we each have for holy writings; be- Common Word,” on October 8, 2007,
8 August 30, 2008 feature signed by 138 high-ranking Muslim cler- ics and leaders, the pace of interfaith en- gagement has accelerated. Now “dialogue” seems to have become the buzz word. The Vatican has set in motion ongoing conver- sations with leaders of Islam and the major Christian denominations, plus bodies like the World Council of Churches are meet- ing to decide their response to the invita- tion given in the open letter. Ten days after the release of the open letter, the Adventist Church sent a reply to its framers, applauding their initiative and indicating our willingness to engage in dialogue with Muslims. When a joint Christian-Muslim meeting of scholars met at Yale University in July this year, an Ad-
ventist was invited to join the group of 140 Ivan Bliznetsov assembled for discussions. Likewise, when King Abdullah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia called a meeting to plan the inter- national interfaith dialogue that convened in Madrid, Spain, July 13-15, an Adventist The bends in the road was included among the invitees. In the United States, we have established by Maxine Sutcliffe a relationship with the Islamic Society of North America, the largest Muslim organi- aking a deep breath of fresh, coun- had never driven this road before. sation in the US. The General Conference try air through the open car win- On the other hand, I have difficulty hosted a meeting with their representatives dow, I finally felt the stress of city having faith in God and following Him at at the church’s headquarters, and Adventists traffic being purged from my body. times. This is despite having His Word as and Muslims cooperated in a joint Health TNo more acrid city smells—only freshness my guide—like a road map—and having Expo at the group’s annual convention. Some mingling with the occasional sweet smell so much previous experience of His Pres- 40,000 people attended the gathering. of newly-harvested hay. Blaring horns re- ence and leading in my life. Larger initiatives lie just ahead. We have placed with quiet, except for the swishing My lack of faith in God—Who has developed an excellent relationship with the of my car tyres on a wide, newly-sealed always been there for me—disappoints directors of the Royal Jordanian Institute of country road. me. Throughout the rest of my journey, Interfaith Studies, based in Amman, Jordan. All that was visible was what I could see I reminisced on the many times God has The first of a series of official conversations in my headlights— been there for me, has been planned for the near future. the road ahead of My lack of faith and all the answered This is just the beginning. The world me, with sporadic prayers. Mulling of Islam is vast, diverse and changing fast. glimpses of shad- in God—Who has over the “unan- Impelled by mission, we need to engage owy trees and farm swered” prayers and Muslims in many different parts of the buildings just off always been there for times I didn’t know world. Whenever and wherever the Lord the side of the road. me—disappoints me. where God was sent opens a door of opportunity, we must move Laughing aloud at my thoughts to He- ahead without delay. R the absolute freedom of having this road brews 11, and the men and women of faith to myself, my foot barely eased from the who died trusting God, in spite of not yet Dr Johnsson will be chairing the forthcoming conference accelerator as I flew around another bend receiving the things promised. “Understanding Islam from a Christian perspective” at in the road. Speaking with God, I asked for His for- Avondale College from January 18-22. From more infor- As the exhilaration gradually settled and giveness for my doubts and for continued mation or to book, contact Avondale College on1800 991 392 (freecall in Australia) or +61 2 4980 2222 or my laughter eased, I started thinking about guidance. I don’t need “blind” faith—He visit
August 30, 2008 9 feature
And what of that promise of time spent with Me? The TV went on with a switch. The news was depressing, the show spoke of sin. Christ’s plea Your heart’s door closed—I couldn’t come in. by Glenda Amos I stood there and pled but you heard not My voice, And at last when you readied for bed. watched as the sunlight caressed your cheek I thought I would have you all to Myself And I gently whispered your name. But you mumbled and climbed into bed. I wanted to hold you and speak of My love, And the journey we’d travel that day. I cried as I watched you fall swiftly asleep. I I had stayed by your side all the day, But you looked at the clock and mumbled and groaned But spurned and rejected, unheeded and heard. Of the thought of the day to begin. Instead you had walked your own way. You snuggled back under the covers and sighed, “I really just want to sleep in!” I had pled for a moment to enter your life; You’d left me right out of your day. Your mind drifted off into dreamland once more; When a portion of time, at the day’s start, I tried to remind you again Would have given you strength for the way. That I loved you and wanted this moment of time To give you the strength to begin. O, how I long to embrace you, you see, To enter your life with My power; The thought was dismissed by the dream in your head, To give you the strength to face what you would, You softly snored on in bliss. The wisdom to live every hour. Till the jangling of time crashed in on your dream And you leapt from your bed with remiss. To have you listen and hear My sweet voice As I speak of the way to walk in; “I shouldn’t have slept late!” Ten minutes to go— To know of the strength that is waiting for you Grabbed your towel, to the shower at speed, To resist the temptations to sin. And on with your clothes, a swallow of food— “Where’s the folder of work that I need?” So now as you sleep, I stay guarding you still. My voice is yet speaking in love. And then as you fled from the house in a hurry, I ask for a union, so close and so sweet, You glimpsed Me beside you in care. A linking to power from above. Your conscience awakened, you yearned for My touch, But you didn’t have time for the prayer. And so, my dear friend, keep your eyes open wide, Your ears attuned to My voice. Later you mumbled as you drove down the street, “I’ll spend some I said, “I won’t leave you” but, oh, how it hurts time later— To be there—but not heard or embraced. Just stay with me, Lord. I’ll make it up to You soon. I’ll sit and we’ll chat. I listen and learn. I wait for the time when we’ll walk hand in hand, I just don’t have the time—as I turn.” When you’ll lovingly answer My call. When you’ll hold me so close and listen and heed, You frown and you mumble at the driver in front, When you’ll cling and avoid the pitfalls. You shrug off my touch of sweet peace. You’re harried and anxious, frustrated and mad I want you! I need you! I died—don’t you see— But I long to speak words that bring peace. I rose and ascended on high. It was for your friendship, your life that I paid So I stay with you through the day’s panic and haste. This price so that you would draw nigh. I speak to you often throughout; But your mind is not present, not centred on Me, I want a relationship, deep and secure. Your faith is not strong and you doubt. You’re my son or my daughter, you know. I carry the scars on the palms of my hands, The day at last ends, I long for that time So that you will respond and love grow! R To help you untangle the knots: The worries that grew, the frustrations that mock, They’d go if you’d cling to the Rock. Glenda Amos writes from Woodrising, New South Wales.
10 August 30, 2008 feature “No other mediator but Christ” by Paul Petersen
ast month’s World Youth Day because this way of thinking and the visit of Pope Benedict to was an integral part of the re- Australia put renewed focus on the ligious culture. The Prince of Roman Catholic Church. Along with Sachsen, Frederik the Wise, Lmany others, I witnessed well-behaved who became the protector of groups of young Catholics seeking spiritual Luther, paid priests to offer renewal, and representing and promoting the mass 24 hours a day to high moral values. As have so many others, secure the eternal fate of his I have learnt to appreciate sincere Chris- nearest and dearest. tian Catholics and, at times, admire their But Martin Luther was dedication to unselfish service. appalled. He had found the To ignore the many positive traits and gospel through studies of the fact that Catholics, just like Advent- Psalms and Romans. The ists, are humans—some troubled, some righteousness of God by being blessings—would be completely which we pass the final judg- unjustified. Yet to be ignorant of the main ment is the merciful acts of differences between a Protestant Adventist God for our salvation. It is perspective, and the system of beliefs and found in Christ on the cross. practices within the Papal Church would We are, therefore, saved and be equally devastating. So let me, in this live our Christian lives by era of kindness and tolerance, which I ap- faith in Jesus. Accordingly, preciate, nevertheless make an attempt to anything or anyone coming highlight the systemic differences between between the believer and Protestant and Catholic Christianity. God will destroy the gospel. A previous article in Record (“What’s To claim you could pay not the difference?” Feature, August 23) fo- only your own way through cused on one important aspect—justifi- purgatory but also speed up cation by faith. Let me highlight another the process for deceased loved aspect intrinsically linked to the Protestant ones was nothing but sheer understanding of justification and salvation. paganism. This aspect may be encapsulated in the Nailing his 95 thesis against phrase “no other mediator than Christ” and the indulgence scheme on the has huge implications for theology, as well door of the castle church in as for personal and corporate spiritual life. Wittenberg was Luther’s of- It cuts to the core of many central and, at ficial response—an invitation times, hot topics in today’s discussion, such to enter into a public discussion of the issue. membership of the Roman Church. as the authority of Scripture, the nature of But it was the subsequent development of The issue was one of authority. To Christ, the heavenly sanctuary, the office of arguments that caused both Luther to be Luther, the Catholic Church usurped the the Church, ordination and priesthood. banned from the church and the reforma- authority that belonged to the Bible alone, tion to take off. and created a set of beliefs and practices The Reformation takes off When challenged that the pope himself where the ordained priesthood came be- In many respects, the Protestant Refor- favoured the indulgence sales, Luther ap- tween the believer and God. mation was sparked by attempts to provide pealed to a general council. When asked funding for the building of the Church what to say if such a council should also The theological basis of St Peter in Rome. Indulgence “shares” support the scheme, Luther had to state The system was based on the concept of were promoted on an unprecedented scale. that not even an official church council ordination. It was—and still is—claimed Marketing arguments played on fear and had the right to decide what was contrary that the bishop of Rome, through Peter superstition. Pay your money, help your to the gospel of the Bible. Taking this po- and his successors on the Papal seat, re- deceased grandad move quicker through sition as a consequence of his understand- ceived a special authority transferred to all purgatory. Such appeals fell on willing ears ing of justification by faith cost Luther his ministers when ordained. This authority,
August 30, 2008 11 feature
or indeletable imprint, enabled the ordained priesthood exclu- sively to facilitate the actual presence of Jesus in the bread and wine of the mass. Thus the sacrifice of Jesus was repeated. The ordained priest- hood had the power to exclude from or include people into the kingdom of God. Similarly, the authority of interpreting the Bible was invested in the teaching office of the church, repre- sented by the pope. The access of the individual believer to God and His Word was restricted. The blessings of God only reached the believer through the human channels of the church and its ordained priesthood. “By Christ alone” The Reformers, on the contrary, maintained that there is no other mediator between God and human beings than the one person who is both fully God and fully human—Jesus Christ. All His blessings are mediated through a relationship of trust, initiated and created by God through Word and Spirit. They believed in “by faith alone.” But more than that, because of the emphasis on full access to God in Christ for the believer, the battle cries also included “by grace alone,” “by Through faith in the Bible alone” and “by Christ alone.” Jesus, the believer No sacrifice but Christ. No other priest- has full access hood in the Chris- tian era than Jesus, to God and is our High Priest in the able to receive heavenly sanctuary. Blessings from God the blessings of to the individual be- liever not restricted the Holy Spirit in by human channels. Through faith in Jesus, his or her life. the believer has full ac- cess to God and is able to receive the blessings of the Holy Spirit in his or her life. In the present religious climate of the early 21st century, this is still relevant. The attempt to create structures of authority within the church, which makes the blessings from God to the believer dependent on human channels and ordained priesthood, is still leading many into temptation. Even many Protestants are eager to establish offices of teaching with an authority of their own, in- dependent of and, therefore, in the end above the Word of God. “No other mediator than Christ” was a central Protestant theme during the Reformation and it is part of the Seventh-day Adventist heritage as well. And in a religious world where the Virgin Mary is celebrated and almost worshipped as a channel to God, and where phenomena around the veneration of her, as well as many other only-human figures, attract those seeking spiritual renewal, it is so much more important to continue the reformation, to point to Jesus as our Heavenly High Priest and only mediator, and to as- sure everyone who obeys the Word of God that, through faith in Jesus alone, they will find salvation. R
Paul Petersen is field secretary for the South Pacific Division,
based in Wahroonga, New South Wales. Taylor Peta
12 August 30, 2008 letters
as a testimony to all nation, and then the times, they would’ve had a problem with Refreshing reading end will come.” splitting the law. Would not the original However, their question is answered in hearers have seen all the law as a means for Jeff Crombie, South Korea verse 30: “At that time the sign [singular] pleasing or getting closer to God? I enjoyed the three feature articles in the of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, So what should we do with the law if August 2 issue of Record. I thought the and all the nations of the earth will mourn. we consider it is all one? Take Paul’s ap- writing was excellent and the way they They will see the Son of Man coming on proach. The Christian is now free to eat presented their topics was refreshingly the clouds of the sky, with power and great what he or she wishes (see 1 Corinthians different. glory.” It seems the signs of Christ’s com- 10:23-30)—“Everything is permissible—but “God with a mother’s face” used inter- ing is His actual coming. not everything is beneficial” (verse 23). esting stories and powerful imagery to call The emphasis is not on “when-ness,” The law—in its entirety—was trumped us to action. And the true-life accounts “soon-ness” nor “quickness” of the Second by the cross. This is why keeping it doesn’t in “In the land of not yet” and “The sad- Advent but on the need to “keep watch” save us; the grace of God through Jesus dest funeral” touched us with sadness and tragedy at the loss of Tyson and Pop, while Publications create a sense of commu- reminding us of the hope we have. And although this “blessed hope” is nity, being the voice, ears and dear to our hearts, such cliches were not pulse of the church community. used by the featured writers, which is one of the reasons these articles were truly and “you also must be ready” (see verses does. But that doesn’t mean we should refreshing. 42-44). This is also the message in Chap- completely abandon it. Parts of it are still ter 25 with the parable of the ten virgins. beneficial.D eciding which is between you They were all “Adventists” and they all and God—and your reading of Scripture. Editorial role slept but they were not all ready when the Try Matthew 22:34-40 for starters. bridegroom came at an unexpected time. However, if you still wish to use the Desre Nikolich, NSW “Therefore keep watch, because you do clean and unclean list as a guide, make I was inspired by the article “Use pub- not know the day or hour.” sure you go all the way and refrain from lishing for mission, Adventist editors told” When I became an Adventist Christian eating any blood or fat (see Leviticus 3:17). (Adventist World, Record, August 9). 60 years ago, it wasn’t because of the proph- Kosher only. It’s ironic that editors face the challenge ecies of Daniel or Revelation, or the “soon- of isolation when they, in fact, create a sense ness” of Jesus’ coming. It was because Jesus of solidarity and strategic vision with the loved me, forgave me and saved me, and A fishing story written word. Publications create a sense is coming again (sometime) to give me my of community, being the voice, ears and eternal reward. Henry Higgins, NSW pulse of the church community. I was born to die forever and I was born I was interested by the Adventist World I see it as the editors’ role to inspire read- again in Christ to live forever. When He article “Is fish safe to eat?” (Record, ers with stories and thoughts that stimulate comes is not so important. That He is July 12). I have been a fisherman and eaten the heart and the mind; to paint a picture coming again is the promise on which my fish from rivers, lakes and ocean shores of mission, inspiring us both individually faith depends. all my life. and corporately to extend our concept of I recently saw a TV program and news- community beyond the church by embrac- paper articles warning people not to eat ing our broader community. To me, this Splitting laws? the big fish, because they are too high in positive use of their influence challenges mercury and are more likely to carry other our church culture to an outward, rather Casey Walker, Qld chemicals. than inward, focus. The law in Scripture and particularly They mentioned tuna, mackerel, shark, on the issue of clean and unclean foods stingray and others. But every fish men- is contentious. However, unlike some of tioned was “unclean,” as defined in the Not when but Who the authors of recent letters (see “Kind of Old Testament. Surely, God knew what laws,” Letters, July 19), I feel it’s danger- was best for us. Ron McGrath, WA ous to split the law up into smaller, more In Matthew 24, the disciples asked Jesus, manageable pieces. Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent “what will be a sign [singular] of Your Who is to say where the divisions lie? those of the editors or the denomination. Letters coming and the end of the age?” Jesus gave One person may see laws of cleanliness should be less than 250 words, and writers must them numerous signs [plural] as indicators (for example, touching dead things) as include their name, address and phone number. All letters are edited to meet space and literary require- of His advent, including the very pertinent ceremonial, whereas another may con- ments, but the author’s original meaning will not be sign in verse 14, “This gospel of the king- sider it a health-based law, and therefore changed. Not all letters received are published. See dom will be preached in the whole world still important. If you went back to biblical masthead (page 2) for contact details.
August 30, 2008 13 noticeboard Wahroonga Positions vacant Volunteers! Celebrating 50 years in the current church building ▲▲International Development Internships—Adventist Development and Relief November 29, 2008 Volunteer Associate Pastor—Margaret Agency (ADRA) Australia is seeking expressions of interest from recent In- River, WA. A volunteer pastor is re- A warm invitation is extended to ternational Development or Social / Human Science graduates considering a quired for a unique opportunity to everyone who has been part of the career in international development. ADRA Australia supports community work in Margaret River. Volunteer to Wahroonga Church family over the development programs in a number of African, Asian and Pacific countries, commence work in 2009 for a mini- past 50 years. Renew friendships. and wishes to place three interns in partner ADRA offices for 2009/10. Appli- mum of one year (longer negotiable). Enjoy fine music, great speakers, cants should have previous experience in a cross-cultural environment and / or Accommodation provided at no cost thanksgiving and celebration. significant volunteer experience, and a demonstrable commitment to ADRA’s and living expenses negotiable. For mission, values and goals. Applicants must hold an Australian or New Zea- We’d like to meet everyone with a more information, please contact land passport. For more information, visit
14 August 30, 2008 noticeboard
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