How can anyone put his faith in Christ if he’s never even heard about Him? How can he hear about Him if no one tells? Romans 10:14

We are all in this... Together

February 2014

IntraVic Newsletter a publication of VAC

Victorian Adventists A note from the Editor’s Office IntraVic Month 2014

The Big ONE

When so many in our world are turning from God, what could be more vital than faithfulness? In this issue... In a year of evangelism – what could be more important than faithfulness? IntraVic Staff When Literature Evangelists find many “Do Not 04 The Test of Character Editor: Knock” signs on doors as they blanket whole suburbs Pastor Graeme Christian with free offers for Beyond DVD’s – what could be One question we really need to consider, is why Assistant Editor: more important than faithfulness? does God give us so much, wealth included? Pr Sherrie Courtney As we invite friends to Life in Recovery programs, an Stenio Gungadoo takes a look at the importance of [email protected] It is Written Dinner or a Dinner with Geoff – would Stewardship in this issue’s Devotional PO Box 215 Nunawading, 3131 faithfulness be important? Phone: 03 9264 7777 Website: vic.adventist.org.au While we gear up for preaching in public venues – 06 Where We Are At what could be more important than faithfulness? Copy deadline As our CFO looks at the current state of the 1st of each Month When we’re still working to balance the Conference 04 Conference, and administration’s plans for the future, budget – what could be more important than he invites you to partner with them, through prayer and Cover Photo faithfulness? Tim Whale - Ministers’ Retreat committement My call is to faithfulness as stewards of the Lord’s business, and that will shape our priorities. 08 Partnering with Evangelism MEANING– faithfulness in personal spirituality. May I ask, how are you going with God? How do you find Evangelism 2014 is well underway, and in this article fulfilment in reaching up? What would it take for you we share with you what is happening, not only from an to deepen your relationship with Him even more? organisational viewpoint, but also from the effect it is MISSION – faithfulness in mission. How could having on the churches involved, and what some other we ensure we’re focused on making disciples churches are doing individually -- as individuals, as groups, as churches and as a Conference? It’s easy for our energies to be directed 09 Church News inward, to ensure we’re caring for ourselves – but 09 inward focused groups die. Is there more we could do See who gave up their beard for a greater cause to reach out? MONEY – faithfulness in bringing tithes and offerings 11 Kids Spot THE BIGREPORT 3 to the store house. It’s a matter of trust – in God. It’s His business, His message, His church. Can we trust Katherine Darroch leads the children through an In the last Intravic, I asked for your input Him with a percentage of what He’s entrusted to us? into what three big picture items the Church exploration of stewardship at the Kids Spot should be focusing on. While a wide range We praise God for the faithfulness of His people! And of concepts were expressed, the top ranking we praise Him for His blessings. items are: 12 Conference News We have a wonderful Saviour, a meaningful message Spirituality – on a personal level, and second to none, and it’s clear that our task is to Among our departmental news we bring you an corporately share the good things we have with others. ordination, introduce some new people to the team as Mission – using a variety of methods: So thanks for your faithful commitment to Him. well as a number of positions being advertised, and personal witness, strategic church planting, 12 dont miss the picture of Sibilla finally receiving her conference wide initiatives for evangelism, reclaiming former members, discipleship Medal of Distinction training etc Youth – we’re clearly committed to keeping our youth and children As we develop the Conference’s strategic plan, your input will be kept in mind. Thanks to all who sent in such great ideas! Graeme Christian

2 | IntraVic IntraVic | 3 I saw that God could rain means from heaven to carry on His work, but He never would do this. It is contrary to His plan. He has entrusted men on earth with sufficient means to carry forward His work, and if all do their duty there will be no lack… saw that they should cheerfully say Here, Lord, is the little of earth’s treasures thou has lent me, take any portion of it, take it all, it is thine. Let me do my part in saving my fellow men… Ellen White 2 Spiritual Gifts p 267,270

But when you give back to God 90 and we will appreciate it more. Treat percent of what He gives to you, it as God’s and we won’t waste our what do you have left? Surprisingly, resources on the unnecessary or buy it’s not 10 percent! It is everything, things we don’t need. Treat it as God’s because when you can pass the test of and it won’t rule our lives but enhance character, God knows He can entrust them. If we treat it as God’s, we will you with all. find out that it will go a lot further, achieve far more, than it all does now. The great missionary statesman Hudson Taylor said, “Let us give up Everything we have is God’s gift to us. The Test of Character our work, our plans, ourselves, our What we do with everything God gives lives, our loved ones, our influence, us is our gift to Him. A look at Stewardship our rights into God’s hand, and then Thomas Jefferson an American when we have given all to Him there Founding Father, the principal author will be nothing left for us to be troubled of the Declaration of Independence Written byStenio Gungadoo about.” The pearl of wisdom found in to ourselves, whether we have the and the third President of the United Pastor at large Ecclesiastes offers us the answer. We character that reflects God or the kind Are we constantly seeking to find new States once said, ‘The whole art of One question we really need to consider, receive our heritage and our labour that reflects apathy and greed. and better ways to have bigger and government consists in the art of being as gifts from God. Time, possessions, better things? Are we avoiding using honest.’ is why does God give us so much, wealth Many people who have had money also skills, our land… all gifts. But He gives our ‘resources’ for good claiming we have had great character. Mr. Welch of John Parnell wrote, ‘It matters not included? It can’t be for us to build large us these gifts, in part, to test of our are too busy? Or perhaps because Welch’s grape juice; J. C. Kraft of Kraft what you do, make a nation or a shoe. character. it seems too hard. Do we look after mansions to live in, nor for us to live in the Cheese; Henry P. Kroll of Quaker Oats; For he who does an honest thing, in the things entrusted to us, for God’s ‘lap of luxury’. Fred Smith, a Christian businessman, William Colgate of the Colgate Soap God’s pure sight is ranked a king.’ glory, or do we exploit them through said it this way: “God entrusts us Company; Walter Johnson, the founder carelessness and apathy? And Alexander Pope, an 18th-century with money as a test, for like a toy to of Holiday Inn; J. C. Penney of the J. C. English poet, best known for his the child, it is training for handling Penney stores; and R. G. LeTourneau We should take this pearl of wisdom to satirical verse and for his translation things of more value.” The way you of LeTourneau University and all the heart, incorporate it in our daily living of Homer left us with this jewel ”An handle the things and skills you have, LeTourneau equipment… and allow it to keep us from ruin. honest man is the noblest work of shows God what your character is These are men who put God first in Let us not treat what we have – money, like. Using them to His glory is creates So let us be honest with what God has their businesses. Financially, as they talent, time, possessions, even families opportunities to demonstrate to our given us, and use it to bring Him glory. started out, they gave to God a tithe, for - regardless of how much or how Creator, to those around us, even some it eventually went as high as 90%. little, as our own. Treat it as God’s Stenio Gungadoo

4 | IntraVic IntraVic | 5 Photo Credit: We have an administration committed to operating within our means, with a focus on not impacting core ministry within the Conference

The Future Our Aged Care system currently The Good News presents the most significant The church board approved a budget financial challenge of any of our Despite the financial challenges Written by Graeme Moffitt deficit for 2014 of $202,000 .for the three companies. Our focus for there is good news. Your support of church company While we recognise Chief Financial Officer this company will be: maximizing conference ministries through your this is not sustainable we have taken government funding, which means tithes and offerings has exceeded Where We are At... steps to minimise the budget deficit ensuring correct classification of budget expectations for 2013. for the year. We have started to have our low and high care residents; Partner with us as we move forward more controls around expenditure and maximizing our accommodation bonds; If there was ever a time to continue that staffing. Where we have had some staff and expenditure controls. However we financial support it is now. vacancies this year we have not added must ensure we are operating within Conference administration is additional staff to fill those vacancies. industry standards. committed to operating our companies We have established a budget review For the 2013/2014 financial year the in a financially sustainable manner and group to provide recommendations on Aged Care board approved a budget that may mean some hard decisions how to operate in a more efficient and deficit of $554,981. Our Warburton The last few months have seen a number need to be made. financially responsible manner. Their facility is currently proving to be the of changes take place within the Victorian report may include recommendations most financially challenging facility we It is our priority to focus on activities for structural change, cost saving are operating. that contribute to core mission, to Conference. In this article, our CFO shares with measures, and increasing revenue. ensure accountability, transparency, us the financial state of the Conference, as it now This group has already met and will September’s constituency meeting continue to meet during the course of voted to establish a review panel to collaboration, excellence and best stands. this year. make recommendations back to the practice for governance, leadership and executive committee. That review panel financial administration. As I have reflected over the past few statements of the report (see left). For our school system we will be has now commenced its work and will weeks and given consideration to While alarming, these results are the focusing on ensuring each school focus on the following areas:- We know we can’t change the state the role I have accepted, I admit I basis from which to effect change for can get to a position of operating in • Purpose & Mission of Advent Care of the Conference overnight. We also have felt somewhat daunted by the financial viability and sustainability. surplus. To this end, we will work with • Role of Governance / Management know that we need the support from financial challenges that confront the schools to ensure: appropriate pupil • Quality of care 2013 was a year where our every member, to work towards making us in ensuring the financially teacher ratios; fee levels; and operating • Profitability organisations sustained further positive change for the Conference. viable operations of the Victorian and capital expenditure control. • Personnel operating losses in each of the three Conference of the Seventh-day • Review of capital projects So partner with us - in prayer, with your companies, the most significant This year the Victorian Conference has Adventist Church. • Recommendations regarding future time and your resources. however being our aged care taken over the management of the As reported at the directions of the company What I can assure you of however company which had an operating former Lilydale Adventist Academy, Albert Einstein has stated that in the Constituency Meeting for the is that we have an administration loss of $7.2 Million for the year Now Edinburgh College. We are For each of our companies our aim is middle of difficulty lies opportunity. committed to operating within our ended 30 June 2013. The loss is grateful for the ongoing financial to operate with surplus budgets, build means and with a focus to not impact attributed to a wide range of issues support committed by AUC for this and restore our equity and working We are in difficult times but are looking period 2009-2012 core ministry and evangelism within including staffing, government transition. capital, and be able to fully cash back for those opportunities to make the our Conference. funding, the Yarra Ranges facility, Conference a financially strong entity to Gilson College Mernda is in its second our reserves, trust Accumulated operating deficit for: and write off of capital projects that accounts, and To quote Joshua J. Marine year of operation and continues to continue supporting church ministries, did not proceed. provisions, as Challenges are what make life present financial operating challenges. education, and aged care within our Church entity $791,682 required by interesting; overcoming them is what The effect of ongoing losses impacts The focus for this school is enrolments state. policy. makes life meaningful. the company’s equity, its cash over the next few years. We can all take courage that as Aged Care entity $3.49 Million reserves, and its overall financial For those who attended the recent Gilson College Taylors Hill is a growing viability. The challenge faced by this individuals we do not have to do this constituency meeting, you would school with a very strong operating Accumulated operating surplus for: current administration is to bring alone. God is in control of His church have noted the operating results for surplus position which has supported about change in management to and Matthew 19:26 reminds us that each of our three companies over the financial position of the Victorian ensure we can turn our situation with God all things are possible. School system $40,841 the preceding four year period 2009 Conference education system as a around. – 2012, as presented in the financial whole. Graeme Moffitt

6 | IntraVic IntraVic | 7 Photo Credit:photos.com/dolgachov Up Coming Events your local pastor. You could become a or [email protected]. Our effort, as together, we Evangelism prayer partner or a financial partner. other departments here - VicYouth, are all partnering to Dinner with Gary You could visit HopeShop.com for ADRA, Women’s Ministries, Education, share Christ with our Partnering resources and ideas, or contact me Health Ministries – all have ideas and community and to bring 2014 & our Local Churches Kent at the Conference Office 03 9264 7777 projects. This really is a combined Him glory. Point Cook April 8 Evangelism must be strategic. And to be successful, it Rowville April 9 must include the basic element around which a church is Narre Warren April 10 Happenings in Casey LE’s Help Werribee’s Awakening built - its people. You and I must become involved in an In the Year of Evangelism 2014, Here in Victoria we have an “The coming together to spread God’s intentional way to share with those around us the possibility Casey Seventh-day Adventist Church, enthusiastic team that is working very word has truly united the church.” motivated by Christ’s commission, has closely with our churches and with the Danielle Cini of a loving relationship with God. To inspire you, we share Ancient Mysteries gone out to invite people from “every Conference for Evangelism 2014. Church News“We have witnessed a spiritual nation, tribe, language’ to come and here what is happening within Melbourne. Point Cook May 3 “Literature Evangelists are an awakening of church members like join in a variety of programs. important link between the church never before... their enthusiasm, their Berwick May 4 A strategic Plan Beyond DVD (allowing for ongoing contact) Firstly their ‘Celebrating Life in and the unchurched as we meet many prayerful volunteering time, efforts and and had opportunity to sign up for fourteen- Recovery’, a program design by Cheri people. We are invited into their homes, resources to ensure the success of this Written by Craig Gillis week Life in Recovery programs running Peters to help people that are looking and as we visit with them, not only do program in faith.” Collins Ouma General Secretary, Victorian Conference at Point Cook, Dandenong, Pakenham, for freedom and victory in their life, they purchase our gospel material, but Dinner with Geoff commenced at the beginning of March. we become an important bridge that “The whole congregation has been Nunawading and Lilydale. galvanized into action...” Akos Mensa The planning for 2014 Melbourne City Youlden Cherie herself presented the first few, connects them to their local Seventh- Evangelism commenced early 2013 In early April approximately 700 IIWO and the program will continue on a day Adventist church.” Joe Paola “In every one of our support many when the Conference met and discussed contacts in targeted suburbs will receive Narre Warren May 15 fourteen week journey of recovery and Over the last twelve months, the team teams you truly feel the presence of the a letter inviting them to one of three free celebration. with church pastors of the major growth Rowville May 17 has worked with seventeen different Holy Spirit.” Roger Cauton corridors of Melbourne the opportunity for dinners with the presenter of the program, Their next program will encourage churches, most recently in the South Pr Garry Kent. Each attendee will then be “Working together like this has been a their church members to partner together people to discover the Bible truth West as part of the evangelistic offered a Beyond DVD, and invitations to Point Cook May 18 true blessing. We know each other so in a strategic evangelistic focus. through the Beyond the Search program planned for that area. The much better now. ” Cheryl Janmaat upcoming events. series. This will be followed by a Bible team was larger than usual, with After these discussions, the churches May will see two afternoon Archaeology Archaeology Seminar that seeks to visiting LEs from OLD, NSW & NZ, and “With so many members becoming of the South West and the South East presentations by Gary Webster held to Secrets of Prophecy set the foundations for the credibility during their campaign they distributed involved, others, who may have held suburbs committed both financially and find more interested people. Once again, and authenticity of the Bible, and then over 3000 pieces of literature, prayed in back, now want to join too – it’s strategically to this exciting partnership Series each attendee will be given a Beyond DVD the Dinner with Geoff’ program from 130 homes and made over 200 contacts infectious.” Maurice Briones that would involve local church members, and invitations to upcoming events. Also which people will be invited to attend for the Werribee church members to It Is Written, Literature Evangelists, Werribee May/June “It’s exciting to see everyone involved, during May, all Beyond contacts within the our main public event of the year 2014: follow up. Beyond, Cheri Peters, Pr Gary Webster and signing up to be a member of one of targeted suburbs will receive an invitation Berwick May/June the Gospel proclamation, Secrets in “Now it is Werribee’s turn” says church Pr Geoff Youlden. Prophecy. the teams; I’m a member of the ‘Meet to a Dinner with Geoff Youlden, the key member, Robert Bryson, “to visit those and Greet” team for the seminars; I Understanding that Evangelism is a presenter of Beyond. These will also be Looking at our world, we can see that in our community who recognise that feel blessed to be helping to spread the process and not an event, a deliberate held in three different locations. time is running out. We would all like there is an emptiness in their lives; word. I know others in my team feel and strategic plan was put in place. Here Follow up series to hear Jesus’ encouraging words “Well Each attendee to these events will receive it is up to us to take the baton from the same.” Shirley Bryson is some of what has been happening and done, good and faithful servant! You an invite to Secrets of Prophecy”lectures. Commencing in July the colporteurs, while heeding Ellen what is planned for the future: have been faithful ...” [Matt 25: 21] This twelve part series by Pr Youlden, will White’s inspirational words to go 3600 letters introducing Beyond and be presented over six weeks from the end Werribee forward in the work, and look to the Lord for aid (R&H Jan 7, ’03).” offering an episode were sent to It is of May, in two locations. Hoppers Crossing written Oceania (IIWO) contacts throughout Members of the seven churches located Victoria, with around 200 homes taking up within the South East and South West Point Cook the offer. growth corridors will follow on with a Spotswood Late November, pastors and church variety of Bible prophecy seminars such leaders met with Pr Youlden and Kerina as Secrets of Prophecy, Revelation and the Pakenham Haora (a layperson who oversaw a Last Empire seminars for those interested. successful outreach program in Penrith Casey And plans are underway for the last year) for training and inspiration. establishment of a new church group for Cranbourne Our literature Evangelistic team, led the Point Cook region, for people who by John Brereton, worked intensively develop an interest. Dandenong Polish in Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing and And there are many other ways your church can be involved in Evangelism 2014… Have a look at what these While we are mainly talking about the Werribee during late February, handing out Dandenong churches are doing for the Lord’s work… The full stories are at Vic.Adventist.org.au under the News tab. strategic plan that has been put in place hundreds of Beyond DVDs, literature and for Evangelism 2014, there are many Put Up a Parking Lot The Pharoah’s Visit A Search for Treasure invitations to upcoming programs. opportunities for local churches and lifeinrecovery.org.au Who would have linked Hot Rods with Warrnambool recently hosted The Land How a church turned a garage sale into Cheri Peters presented three weekend individuals to get involved. If you would evangelism? Northpoint has! of the Pharaohs Exhibition, and invited a chance to share Christ... sessions where attendees were all given a like to partner with us in some way, talk to archaeologydiscovery.org.au members from the community… dinnerwithgeoff.org 8 | IntraVic IntraVic | 9 secretsofprophecy.org.au Read these stories & more at What are some of the things that God wants us to be Answering the Call VIC.ADVENTIST.ORG.AU (under the ‘News’ Tab in the Menu) rd ‘stewards’ of? wa Did you Wantirna Church te Draw a line to match... S know God wants ul you to be His steward? Jordan Bower was baptised at Wantirna Church during an CHRIST’S HARVEST hf afternoon service in December last year. t This means ‘manager’ or ‘care- ai Rome Ulia - a key spiritual baptism and he was answering MASDAC F taker’ and God wants us to take IntraVic News - Article - Christ's Harvest mentor for Jordan - travelled that call. In December, Stanley Cheong http://intravic.adventistconnect.org/items/chri... A good care of everything that is His. So down from Newcastle to be the Lyn Bolto - a more local mentor pets publicly accepted Christ through what belongs to God? main speaker at the service - also spoke during the program profession of faith and Siew and shared his own powerful and Jordan’s school band Kiaw Lim was baptised. Their ‘The ______and everything testimony during the program. friends from Heritage College testimonies reveal God’s amazing in it belongs to the ______. The your body When asked why he was getting provided the music. and unlimited methods of reaching ______and all its ______belong to Him’ baptised, Jordan replied that he Jamie Hegarty His beloved sons and daughters. – ~Psalm 24:1 believed God had called him to the world Lord, People, Earth, World Earth, People, Lord, A GOOD CAUSE http://kaywa.me/QiED9 Help the children f ind a way to Bendigo money Bendigo Church has regularly Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code! bring their money to church

hosted a garage sale and to date IntraVic News - Article - Bendigo Garage Sale http://intravic.adventistconnect.org/items/bend... have raised over $15,000 for local What projects and for ADRA. “This is an excellent opportunity to raise funds are some for projects around the church, raise the church profile in the ways you can community and evangelism,” Peter Ashworth. Pr David Riley & Rome Ulia, with Adam, help take care of Please pray for this event, or Jordan, Janette and Paul Bower perhaps even consider attending, God’s “things”? for a day out! (details on website) One Shaved Pastor http://kaywa.me/0Bc7Z ______Bendigo Church REVOLUTION ______Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code! In December, Pr Hensley Gungadoo challenged his congregation Adventist Youth for Christ ______to raise $4,000, promising that if they did, he would have his beard In February, delegates assembled shaved off. for the ninth AYC Convention at ______Melbourne Town Hall. Over 600 Quietly confident his beard was 15, at the church farewell, the attended from around the world. It ______safe, he used this as motivation beard was shaved off. was with the Melbournians on their to raise money for their ADRA minds, those bustling on and off ______Christmas tree project. Thankyou Hensley, and all the best at your new posting, as you trams, walking, working, meeting and eating all around them, that PS... We’d love for you to send you list to us! The last of the pledges came in serve the community of Gilson in January, with the total raised College. the AYC delegates met. coming to $4,100. Hensley kept his own pledge, and on February IntraVic with Peter Ashworth Draw a picture of you taki Does your church have these? These spe- MOUNTAIN MOVING ng care of God’s things cial envelopes were made just Warburton IntraVic News - Article - Mountain Moving http://intravic.adventistconnect.org/items/moun... for kids to bring along their For years, Jannene Howse had felt tithes and offerings to church. drawn to Literature Evangelism work. She shares with us her If you don’t have them you story of how God gave her a gentle can ask your church treasurer ‘nudge’ to get things moving, at the same time encouraging her to get some from the Victorian that He will remove the mountains Conference Office. that hold her back. rian Children’s Ministries Victo

http://kaywa.me/02ZzR Katherine Darroch

po Box 215 Nunawading 3131

10 | IntraVic [email protected] PHONE 03 9264 7777 Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code! FROM THE PRESIDENT Ordaining Mebzar Quinto This year has certainly commenced at a rapid rate. I would like to give you an Conference News overview of some of what is happening in the Conference and the recent Executive Sabbath March 1, was the day chosen for Mebzar Quinto’s ordination, and it was a and BOD meetings. very special Divine service at our Filipino-Australian church, celebrated with his church family and others who were able to be there. Pastor Mebzar’s passion is As is our custom at these meetings, of reference were voted in for the growing healthy spiritual families amongst the people he ministers to. the committee members came Conference Administration Committee POSITIONS Mebzar Quinto is a third generation activities and his studies, Mebzar was together for a time of prayer and praise and for the Safe Places Committee, AVAILABLE Introducing... Adventist originally from the not serious about his calling to ministry before settling down to discuss the and the AUC’s Child Safe Environments Philippines. He was educated in the until one night when he felt compelled items on the agenda, which was, again, Policy 2014 was adopted. Aged Care Chief Executive Officer We welcome two new members to the Adventist educational system and to talk to God deeply. He asked God Ministerial team here in Victoria. Aitui earned bachelor degrees in Theology to show him a sign to direct him to an extensive list. Facility Operations Manager – Bendigo (Tui) Fanene from the South Queensland Our Schools: Heritage College and Teaching at Mountain View College. his real calling. The following day he Applications close April 7, 2014 Conference, and Lilian Panozzo from Our work: The Conference’s plans received approval to seek an external Adelaide. His wife, Carolyn, a Registered Nurse, went to the local Seventh-day Adventist Visit Vic.Adventist.org.au for more also hails from a devoted Adventist Conference Office just to meet a friend, for Evangelism 2014 are becoming loan to build new science laboratories information Pr Aitui Fanene is the new pastor for the family in the Philippines. She is but by the time he left he had signed up a reality! In Werribee, Literature and class rooms. committed to God, and supports her to join the 1000 Missionary Movement Samoan congregations. He replaces Pr Evangelists have found over 200 Eddie Erika, who, while officially retired, husband while enjoying looking after and a month later he was sent to East Our boundaries: This year three of Aged Care Review homes in the Werribee area open for will share the work with Tui this year, their three children, Von Razzl, Nyll Timor to assist the church in Dili. After our staff have had their employment Xabi, and Zara Yohanna a year in Dili Mebzar accepted a call to contact and Cherie Peters’ opening AdventCare to provide continuity for all the Samoan terminated, each due to differing groups. serve Nunawading Church as volunteer Ministry is Mezbar’s lifeblood – he Life in Recovery program was well youth pastor through the Adventist boundaries being breached. It is Given the challenges faced by “Hi and Talofa. My name is Pr Aitui has always been involved in some way attended with 40 people signing up Volunteer Services. He has also served normal practice within our Conference AdventCare over the previous Fanene (Tui) with my wife Jacinta and in his church’s outreach and inreach at Warburton Church as lay minister for the fourteen week program. In quadrennium, it was requested at the our 4 boys Hermann (14), Henry (12), activities, however after college Mebzar to require our team to participate for a year. the South East, church members and Constituency meeting in September that Hayden (9) and Harrison (7). I have been explored the world for a time, working in regular boundaries training – the Executive board establish a panel, support staff alike are fully involved in pastoring the Glenala, Riverview and first as a school teacher and then Congratulations, Mebzar, on your appropriate boundaries MUST be “To conduct an independent review Springwood Samoan Churches in the preparation for the program in their of Aged Care Victoria with a view to selling life insurance policies for a ordination. May God be with you and established and the Conference is South Queensland Conference. While time. support you and your family, as you area too. What is more, pastors across ensuring lessons are learnt and good it was a real blessing ministering in serve Him.While Int committed to enabling this. governance is in place going forward.” Brisbane for the last seven years, it In spite of his involvement in church the state are faithfully working with is also a real privilege to take up the their churches in preparation for their Our budget: The 2014 budget The Review Panel has been appointed challenge of ministering to our Samoan own evangelistic endeavours and many was approved, but the budget review with Terms of Reference that include, churches in Melbourne. I would like to but are not limited to, evaluating Aged acknowledge the enormous effort of Pr prior It is Written contacts have been committee, which gave its initial Care (Victoria)’s purpose, mission and Eddie Erika in our Samoan community contacted again. report, will continue to meet to governance, quality of care, profitability in the past and I wish him all the best in discover other areas of potential and personnel. The panel has already his coming retirement. I look forward to The Executive established an commenced meeting, looking at many being part of our pastoral team as we evangelism committee which will saving, as we are committed to having aspects of AdventCare operations. It is build God’s kingdom in this great city.” develop and make recommendations, the Conference live within its means. also planned for panel members to visit each AdventCare facility and talk with Lilian Panozzo is coordinate and facilitate the overall Are you eager for God’s blessing, staff and residents. the newly appointed Conference Evangelism program. both personally and as a Church? We Submissions of up to one page are assistant minister are! There is so much for which to be invited from interested persons. Please at Wantirna and The work is happening, would you be address these to the school chaplain at thankful. We have many opportunities, our prayer partners for this endeavour Chief Financial Officer, Mr Graeme Nunawading Christian and as we work together, let us go to lead others into a loving relationship Moffitt, College Secondary forward with confidence, recognising C/O: Mail: Victorian Conference Office, campus. with Christ? Jesus’ promise – I am with you always, PO Box 215, Nunawading 3131 “Hello and thanks for the warm, sunny Our AdventCare: The Aged Care even unto the end of the world. email: [email protected]. welcome Victoria! We’re excited to be Members of the Review Panel are embarking on an adventure for Jesus review panel has commenced and Graeme Christian committed to a thorough consideration with you, after six years of ministry in there is every indication it will do its of all aspects required to achieve a Adelaide’s southern suburbs. Walking job thoroughly and fairly. Our facilities financially viable and mission focused alongside people discovering and organisation for the Seventh-day growing in friendship with Christ, is are to go smoke-free by the end of Adventist aged care system here in a passion we share. Mathew loves March, and staff are being offered help Victoria. making gnocchi using recipes inherited in quitting. And the Aged Care Board from his Grandmother. I love to eat the Please support this work with your have begun advertising for a new CEO gnocchi, but usually have my head stuck prayers for guidance for the panel, so in a book. We’re both looking forward and a manager for the Bendigo facility. that God may direct in every area of its to meeting you and worshipping Jesus work. together.” Lili and Mathew Panozzo Our Accountability: Terms Aged Care Review Panel

12 | IntraVic IntraVic | 13 Taking Stock Our New Ministerial Association Ambassadors Every year the Victorian field pastors and ADRA chaplains retreat for one week. It is a time to take stock, exchange resources, and ADRA in Victoria has a new ambassador encourage each other for the year ahead. team for 2014. Amy Pitt is our School’s This year we headed to Falls Creek Village ambassador and Rosemary Andrykanus and were blessed to have Grenville Kent Grenville Kent on Christian apologetics: is the Youth Ambassador. as our guest speaker. Gilson College, Mernda Greek: άπολογία, “verbal defence, speech in defence” Amy and Rosemary both have a history Students, staff, families and friends came The overall theme was an exhortation of serving others through StormCo and together to dedicate Gilson College, Mernda to preach, and Grenville focused on overseas service trips, and bring their Campus, to God’s care and guidance for 2014. several topics not often preached on, rise and fall of Solomon, his struggle enthusiasm and passion to these roles. The Acacia Room was the setting for this and encouraged us to explore these with meaning, and the final relevant So if your school or youth group would Edinburgh College service and as our Primary students delivered fully and preach apologetically so as to realisation that real meaning is found like a visit please email RAuriant@ This year marked our very first dedication a sweet rendition of “Jesus Loves Me” and present solid evidence for the Christian in God. service as Edinburgh College. “Father, I Adore You” a worshipful and relaxed adventist.org.au as they will be excited to world view, so under attack in today’s atmosphere embraced the community. As We were also privileged to see some share with you the service opportunities society. Our ELC and Primary students sang special the Year 7 students led out in the pledges preview footage from the Christian DARA has planned for this year, both items, the Secondary Choir performed and of dedication, followed by the the Staff, and He spoke particularly about preaching apologetics TV series Grenville is locally and overseas. our Principals, teachers and staff were Parents and Friends representative, a heart through Old Testament narratives currently shooting “Big Questions”, all actively involved in this special time of Rebecca Auriant felt pledge was presented before our Lord God and their contemporary applications, a universe spanning contemporary thanksgiving and dedication. for the protection, growth and development of such as the story of David, Nabal and series exploring the solid foundation our students. Abigail in 1 Samuel 25. He encouraged of our faith by asking the big us to preach more from the Torah, to questions about God - check it out on approach difficult topics with frankness www.bigquestions.com but with honesty, sensitivity and We had group discussions in our genuine seeking after God’s revelation regional groups with a prayerful in the Word. focus on evangelism, and during the afternoons were free to explore our He also led us through the Psalms and beautiful surrounds and God’s creation. challenged us to look at the laments properly, without rushing through to Thanks to everyone who made this the happy ending, reminding us that week possible, the kitchen staff, the ADRA Disaster Response Dedication Night God is able to bear our honest feelings conference staff who organised the program, and Grenville Kent for his because of his love for us. With the recent fires back in February, time. Finally we walked through the wisdom ADRA was able, for the first time, to literature of the Bible, through the Justin Bone participate in its new disaster response 2014 role being negotiated here in Victoria. For some time in other states, ADRA has held official agreements with the Sibilla Johnson was officially presented Government to facilitate short-term City Regional with her award (mentioned in February’s emergency accommodation, but this edition of IntraVic) by Garry Krause from was not possible in Victoria. Departmental the General Conference At the request of a local emergency February 15 saw church members relief centre in Wallan, ADRA volunteers from around Melbourne, join with prepared and distributed food hampers attendees at this year’s AYC’s to families separated by road blocks congress at Melbourne Town Hall for from outside assistance and emergency an afternoon regional meeting. The centres. theme was Evangelism, and there Heritage College, Officer The Officer Primary students and families were several guest presenters. came together to Dedicate our school Nunawading Christian College Garry Krause introduced some of community into the loving care of God’s At NCC, the Dedication night included hands. We spent the evening in praise worship music led by Senior students, the Global Mission’s church planters and worship, where Pr Faye spoke of our together with a song presented by students around the South Pacific Division. POSITION AVAILABLE from the Primary school to remind everyone John Bradshaw discussed how public Him. Joanna Davis then spoke about ‘Imitation Generation (more like God)’ simple things people have done that, Adventist Book Centre (ABC) Sales Clerk – theme. This was followed by Staff, Student’s as twilight settled over the quadrangle evangelism DOES work – but we have with God’s blessing, have had huge fulltime position. and Parent’s pledging their support to the that God is at work in Australia – the great to work with it – it is up to us. We guidance of God’s presence and direction southland. He is at the centre of our lives have to change with the times and be effects. Job Description available on in our school. We thank the parents who and our school. While everyone sang, intentional. The Holy Spirit is at work www.AdventistEmployment.org.au. came along and supported this community students lit candles from a beautiful central and we need to learn to cooperate with IntraVic building and celebratory event. candle, illustrating that our individual lights Applications close 31 March. might shine brightly but in Jesus we are united and His light strengthens ours. APRIL OFFERINGS SCHEDULE Adventist Book Centre APR 5 Local Church Budget • APR 11 Adventist World Radio • APR 18 - Education/ 121 Central Road, Nunawading 14 IntraVic | Camping MInistry • APR 25 Local Church Budget Open Mon-Thurs 9-5 & Fri 9-12:30pm We are in this together and the Work IS happening... An invitation to partner with us... There is a real need for Financial Partnership for Evangelism 2014

2014 EVANGELISM PROJECTS FOR VICTORIA: • Evangelistic Dinners Could you sponsor a community person to a Dinner with Geoff or an It is Written Dinner - $45/person • Secrets of Prophecy Seminars Are you able to support these seminars with Geoff Youlden • Church Plants Would you help fund one of our three newest church plants, such as the one started at Mernday College in Melbourne’s Northern suburbs • Youth Pastoral Worker This program impacts not just our local churches, but the young people who participate • Hope Channel We’ll need an additional $30,000 in 2014 to keep Hope Channel on the air in Victoria

What Can YOU Commit to in Partnership? visit Vic.Adventist.org.au to Contribute

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