‘This house believes that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life’ was the motion debated by Durham University’s Students Union. It was loudly announced that the proposer was the president of the Seventh- day Adventist Church in the UK. Other proposers were Oxford philosopher Professor Richard Swinburne and Rt Revd Brian Smith, the Anglican Bishop of Edinburgh. The opposers of the motion were hardly less well- known. There was Dr Stephen Law, author and scholar, Stuart Sim, another published philosopher, and Thomas Bull, a finalist in the world debating championships. To be invited into the company of such luminaries is a symbol of acceptance and great good news – but to be asked to speak on such a subject suggests that someone, somewhere, has heard that Seventh- day Adventists know something about Jesus. It would appear that someone is beginning to hear our voice. The debating hall, within sight and sound of the cathedral, was packed – not with theologians, philosophers and sundry academics, but with a large crowd of young people who had decided that a debate was of greater importance than a Friday night on the town. The talk before the debate began was not whether United will win the league but whether there was ‘any point in a religious experience’, or ‘I’ve always been to church’, and ‘I was an atheist before I became a Christian.’ Solid and encouraging stuff. The debate did not reveal any new approaches in how to persuade people that Jesus really is the Way, the Truth and the Life, nor did the opposition provide truly stunning arguments against our concept of God. What was important in the debate was revealed after the event. Who won is not the issue. That the motion was lost proved that the opposers could shout the loudest. That the debate took place and that many students were involved and became involved is the When Durham University wanted a proposer for the motion ‘Jesus victory. People heard some of the issues and put Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life’, they came to the British their brains to work. Victory! After the debate Pastor McFarlane said that for Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Its president Pastor him the aim was to make sure that the name of the Don McFarlane took up the challenge. On Friday evening 27 April the Church was announced and held high. ‘It was a priv- debate took place. Present to report for MESSENGER was Pastor Peter ilege,’ said Pastor McFarlane, ‘to put the case for Jesus – the Way, the Truth and the Life.’ Jeynes. ‘Don was like Paul on Mars Hill,’ says Peter, ‘but it was a wonderful witness for the Lord and for our Church.’ For the full text of Pastor McFarlane’s speech see www.adventistinfo.org.uk/departments/president.php 1PING/iStockPhoto Together we are making a differ- change at ADRA appeal: 30% increase ence! Therefore a very warm ‘thank home. you’ on behalf of the poor and needy Alternatively, by Bert Smit, ADRA-UK director for whom ADRA provides essential you can make out a monthly stand- Is it well? David Marshall Reports in from the Conferences and reports from all over the British Isles support. Without your financial help, ing order to ADRA. With Gift Aid Missions at the end of April indicate about activities that have added to we could not do this. added, every pound can make a real a 30% increase so far in the our yearly fund-raising effort. From As soon as we have the final difference. If you would like a fun Ingathering total over the same car washes to sponsored walks to figures in from all the churches, we day out in Edinburgh, then the ‘Great period last year. fund-raising – all of it will report the total amount. We Scottish Walk’ might be an ideal way As director for ADRA-UK, I would has made a great difference. A would also encourage you to remem- to raise more funds for ADRA. personally like to thank all those very special ‘thank you’ to all the ber the work of ADRA throughout the Contact www.adra.org.uk for more You never know how you will cope when disaster Thankfully, the Spaffords, struggling through When the disciples saw the man born blind, and who participated in this year’s ADRA collectors who took full advantage year. Please contact your Ingathering details. The SEC is organising an strikes – until it strikes. sea-billows of grief, were unaware of what the home before Jesus could heal him, they showed that they Annual Appeal. It was heart- of this year’s good weather to collect agent to provide you with a special ADRA Fun Run on Sunday 29 July at You never know how deep your roots run until the crowd was making of their tragic situation. adhered to the superstitions of folk religion by ask- warming to hear and read your from door to door. ‘home-tin’ to keep collecting small Crystal Palace. hurricane happens. The Spaffords were struggling with their grief in ing, ‘Who sinned, this man or his parents, that Y 1 Thankfully, disasters rarely strike nor hurricanes their different ways. he was born blind?’ Jesus said, ‘Neither’ and happen with the frequency and intensity with which Mrs Spafford was trying to prove that she was moved quickly to deny their superstition and, by the fire brigade at around 10.20pm. on the building, when a car was torched near the they struck the life of H. G. Spafford. more than a ‘fair weather Christian’. She told herself: implication, ‘the whole Jewish system of rewards Arson attack on While the children’s room was badly damaged, back. However, this does not deter the Micklefield A lawyer, Spafford dedicated his life to ‘I will trust Him, and some day I’ll understand.’ Back and punishments’.2 Micklefield church the bulk of the building remains intact and Pastor members. Sunday morning saw them outside the God after hearing the preaching of Dwight Moody. At in Chicago, Moody involved her in an exacting pro- Our reflex when tragedy strikes is to demand Michael Anim hopes that the church can be re- church. Surveying the damage to their building, first, all went well. His business interests prospered, gramme to help the poor and disadvantaged women answers. And, almost invariably, we demand Arsonists struck at the Micklefield Adventist opened for worship within eight weeks. they joined hands and prayed for forgiveness he married a beautiful Nordic wife, they settled of the city. answers to the wrong questions. church in High Wycombe on Saturday night, 21 The Micklefield church has had a history of and a change of heart for those involved in the down in Lake View on the Chicago shores of Lake H. G. Spafford struggled to make sense of his Jesus invited the disciples to think through their Michigan and had a son and four wonderful children’s deaths. He expressed his thoughts in wrong question. They were looking for someone to April, destroying the children’s room at the back of vandalism, including a previous arson attempt attack. the church and leaving the building unusable for daughters. poetic form and published them in a book titled blame. Jesus implied that it was not their business worship in the short term. The fire was started in Spafford used his wealth and influence to Waiting for the Morning. Then he re-immersed to argue cause-effect. It was to allow God to work in a wheelie bin placed at the back of the building, HARPER BELL ADVENTIST SCHOOL, Birmingham God’s glory and, with others, bankrolled the Moody himself in his Chicago ministry: YMCA efforts in the the situation. In that situation, God’s work was to let and then broke through a window into the KS2 TEACHERS REQUIRED FOR SEPTEMBER 2007 evangelistic enterprise. downtown district, prison ministries, helping Moody in the Light! building itself. The alarm was raised by staff 1 Part-time teacher The first disaster to strike was the death of the (with the little that remained of his fortune) to build Pilate’s soldiers murdered a group of Galileans. at the next door Community Centre who called 1 Full-time teacher to cover maternity leave Spaffords’ young son in an epidemic. While the a new tabernacle in Chicago’s north side. Jesus asked, ‘Do you think the murdered Galileans 1 Part-time teacher (French). Hours to be negotiated Spaffords were still grieving, the Great Fire struck. The lasting bequest Spafford made to Christianity were worse sinners than those who survived?’ He All positions carry one year contract to August 2008. Spafford narrowly escaped with his life and, with was the words of the poem he had written mid- answered his own question, ‘I tell you, no!’3 Harper Bell is a small but growing Christian primary school with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The Stanborough Press Ltd has a vacancy for an conspicuous heroism, helped many others escape Atlantic, and for which his friend Philip Bliss com- A tower in the Siloam district of Jerusalem col- Successful candidates should: Administrative Secretary at its Grantham offices. the inferno by making it possible for them to cross posed a tune. It is number 530 in the SDA Hymnal. lapsed, killing eighteen people. Jesus asked, ‘Do you • Have QTS and up-to-date professional knowledge Applications, together with CV, should be submitted • Have the potential to be an excellent teacher, commited to good pupil progress and active learning the river. His home and family were spared but his It begins: think those eighteen were worse sinners than all the to The Financial Director, The Stanborough Press • Take an active part in all aspects of school life and extra-curricular activities business interests never recovered from the fire’s When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, others living in Jerusalem?’ Again, he answered his Ltd, Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. • Demonstrate a Christian faith by word and example devastation. When sorrows like sea-billows roll, own question, ‘I tell you, no!’4 Tel: 01476 591700; Fax: 01476 577144; Email: [email protected]. If you would like to join this enthusiastic and caring team of staff, please contact the school for an application Two years later Spafford arranged a European Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, The Bible allows a general relationship between 5 Salary in accordance with denominational wage form on 0121 693 7742. A visit to the school is welcome. holiday for his wife and four daughters aged between ‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’ suffering and sin, due to the Fall, but it refuses to scale. Closing date for applications: 12 noon on 25 May. 18 months and 12 years. Tickets were bought on the Two more children, one boy and one girl, were permit the principle to be individualised in every grand SS Ville du Havre. It was Spafford’s intention born into the Spafford family. case. God explicitly dismisses the simplistic to join his family in Europe once some business had After a few short years a scarlet fever epidemic sin-suffering theology in Job. been concluded in Chicago. swept through Chicago. Both children caught it. The In the same way Jesus refuses to accept that cise group had an increase in natural killer cells Where vigorous bouncing movements in a Mid-Atlantic, the sea three miles deep but calm, little boy died. deaths as shocking as those of the Galileans slaugh- (part of the body’s first-line defence against standing position is impossible or ill-advised, the SS Ville du Havre sank after a collision with The struggles began again. tered or the people of Siloam killed resulted from the germs and viruses). just sitting on a bouncer and rhythmically moving another vessel. The three Spafford girls drowned They were vastly intensified when a quietly- sin of the victims. ‘I tell you, no!’ he said. up and down is beneficial. This is an excellent while the mother clung to the baby. Finally, the baby spoken, pious member of their congregation came Our reflex when crises come to ask questions, Excessive exercise – over-training, intense exercise for older people or those rehabilitating was swept from her grasp. Mrs Spafford was one of to their home and asked them to permit him to adopt demand answers and then blame someone can workouts and major competitions have been found after surgery or injury. only forty-seven survivors. Ten days later, from their one remaining child. lead into the realms of dangerous and destructive to reduce immunity, increasing susceptibility to , she sent a cable to her husband. It began When he had gone, Mrs Spafford had to explain theology. bacteria and viruses thus leading to infections. Advice: with the words, ‘Saved alone. What shall I do . . .’ to her husband that, since the death of their daugh- How is it destructive? These changes do not occur after moderate exer- • Invest in a small trampoline or bouncer. Use Spafford sailed immediately for Liverpool. There ters, the ‘Christian’ community of which they were Because the person who is already a victim – cise. Researchers found that Upper Respiratory 10-15 minutes twice a day. Dwight Moody took time out from his evangelistic part had engaged in whispered comments and through tragedy or illness – is not affirmed by a Tract Infections (URTI) appear to be highest after • As cardiac, respiratory and muscular perform- campaign in Edinburgh to comfort the Spaffords. The speculations. ‘They think we have sinned,’ she healing, supportive Christian community. To the con- major events like the marathon or during periods ance are diminished during and for some time hurricane had struck their lives and the great evan- told him, ‘and that God is punishing us.’ trary that person, in addition to illness or tragedy, is of intense training. Nearly 50-70% of athletes after even mild viral infections, avoid exercise gelist was amazed at their fortitude and faith. On the In the ensuing months the whispering campaign made to carry an insupportable burden of guilt. voyage Spafford had made to Liverpool, the captain continued: ‘If the Spaffords were true Christians, God To those persons, by contrast, Jesus says, ‘What IMMUNITY AND EXERCISE (part 3) report URTI two weeks after a major competition. when ill. Exercise during a mild cold is fine if of the vessel on which he travelled called him to the would not have allowed all these disasters to happen is happening may not be clear to you now but – trust Little or no exercise encourages toxin build-up, symptoms are above the neck-line – a stuffy bridge one evening. ‘A careful reckoning has been to them.’ me! – it will be one day.’6 leading to cell degeneration, disease and deposits Rebound exercise is an excellent immune nose, etc. However, if your whole body is made,’ he told Spafford, ‘and I believe we are now Some whisperers contended that Spafford was To the whisperers and those dishing out guilt, which suppress the immune system. booster. This aerobic ‘rebounding’ is a whole-body affected by a systemic illness or the flu, passing the place where the Ville du Havre went being punished for his hell-hostile theology. Other Jesus says, ‘I tell you, no! But unless you repent, Exercise physiologists and researchers exercise, consisting of bouncing on a firm mini- with symptoms like fever, extreme tiredness, down.’ Back in his stateroom, Spafford wrote the whisperers contended that the Spaffords were being you too will all perish.’7 studying exercise and the immune system have trampoline, a bouncer or rebounder. The rhythmic muscle aches and swollen lymph glands, words of a poem, ‘When peace like a river’. punished for unspecified ‘sin in the life’. Connecting an individual’s sufferings or tragedies suggested that moderate exercise appears both to bouncing activates the flow of the lymph fluids. don’t exercise. The College of Sports Medicine But back home, in Chicago, members of the The elders of the Presbyterian church which the with an individual’s sin is a cruel, destructive and protect and enhance immune function. Toxins move more effectively out of the cells into recommends waiting two to four weeks before Spaffords’ home congregation were dissecting Spaffords had helped to build finally asked them to heartbreaking thing to do. Ask Job. Ask the One study researched women who were the lymph fluid and into the blood stream, for training intensively. his sorrows as if they were specimens requiring resign their membership. The Spaffords subsequently Spaffords. Ask hundreds of Adventists. placed into exercise and non-exercise groups. The excretion and elimination from the body. This • General moderate exercise – 30 minutes, analysis. moved to Jerusalem where they founded a ministry exercise group walked briskly for 45 minutes, five allows the white blood cells to defend the body 5 times a week. The losses in the Great Fire? The death of his to win Moslems and Jews for Christ. End of story. 1John 9:2. 2Jon Paulien, The Abundant Life Bible days a week. These women experienced half as against infection and foreign invaders, increasing son? The deaths of all of his daughters? Was not God Their story, that is. Amplifier:JOHN (Pacific Press), page 167 3Luke 13:1-3. many colds as the non-exercise group. The exer- immunity. Get moving! punishing H. G. Spafford for sins in his life? For his The story of the whisperers continues. In your 4Luke 13:4, 5. 5See Genesis 3 and Romans 5:12 et seq outspoken beliefs? congregation? 6See John 13:7. 7Luke 13:3, 5.

2 Messenger 3 Messenger The preacher for the day was case of recognising God’s leading in Middlesbrough is moving on George Powls, a former elder of the the move as the sale of the church The Great Scottish Walk: church and to many ‘Uncle George’. realised more than double the valua- Inspired by Ben Carson Sabbath 24 March was a very major changes to the size of the The church was built by Adventist tion offered. by Patrick McKerrow special day for the Middlesbrough congregation and the council’s impo- builders on the site of two derelict The Middlesbrough church will be are you up for it? Dr Carson, director of paediatric like Ben Carson. He worked hard on church – and perhaps a unique day sition of a two-hour parking limit on houses which had been bombed in moving on to worship and minister by John Wilby, ADRA sponsor, Scottish Mission neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins his studies and after being offered a for Seventh-day Adventist churches the streets around the church. Add World War II. in a nearby Anglican church whose Medical Institution, is living proof place to study pharmacology at UCL, in the British Union. to that the pressing need to upgrade There were tears – even from leadership have bent over back- If you were moved by the ADRA-UK Annual Appeal video, but couldn’t find that perseverance, prayer, and self- Sam was keen to study medicine The members of the church had the facilities in the church to allow some of the men. There was an air wards to make us welcome. We have time to door-to-door collect, then don’t despair, you can still do your bit! respect, combined with a devotion to and so accepted an offer at taken a decision to sell their building for easy access by the disabled, and of sadness for older members – and full access to their premises (we Maybe your church is organising a sale or some other fund-raising event. acquiring knowledge, can overcome Southampton University, where he and move into rented accommoda- to make the church a representative not a few of the younger members have our own keys) for the whole of But if you really want to raise some serious cash, enhance your relation- any obstacles in one’s way. graduated as a medical doctor in tion. This was an unusual decision, building again, and we saw the need as well. However, for many it was a Sabbath. PETER JEYNES ships with others and have a great day out, then ask yourself this ques- The internationally-renowned 2006. but it had been taken in the light of for a move. ¡ tion: neurosurgeon, who first came to Dr Sam Katebe is grateful for the ‘Would I like to take an enjoyable, leisurely six or twelve-mile-walk, in world attention in 1987 when he inspiration of the book by Ben the company of several thousand similarly inspired people, around one of The president sang bass! separated the conjoined Binder Carson, the support of his family, the most beautiful and historic cities in the world and benefit my favourite Baptism at Newbold Contemporary January 20 was a special day for Liverpool Kensington church as we were twins who were joined at the head friends, and church members and charity?’ blessed by a visit from the BUC president, Pastor Don McFarlane. During the and shared part of the same brain, indeed the faith in Jesus Christ If the answer is ‘Yes’ then this is how: Service On 3 March, Newbold church saw Jesus as their personal Saviour. divine service, he exhorted the faithful with his sermon entitled, ‘Being a is author of three books – The Big which he considers priceless. Our • Block out Sunday 10 June in your diary. Servant’. In the afternoon, the church members were treated to a pleasant Picture, Think Big, and Gifted young are still receptive to positive • Get an entry form from your ADRA agent for the Edinburgh Great the beginning of the celebration of Friendships and involvement in 100 years of the Adventist Church youth activities, alongside Bible surprise when Pastor McFarlane joined the visiting King’s Shepherds Male Hands. He is also an inspiration to images. People like Dr Ben Carson Scottish Walk (or download from www.adra.org.uk). Quartet from Birmingham in singing two beautiful songs in his deep bass many young people. are a treasure and a gift from the • Decide if you want to form a team (4-6 people) or enter as an Youth department. The young people study with the pastors, brought led out in a special baptismal serv- these four young women into a voice. He later presented a Powerpoint presentation of ten ‘Hot Button’ issues One of these is Sam Katebe, the Lord of Lords and fountain of all individual. he considered indispensable to the eldest son of Enoch and Irene knowledge. • Send the entry form to the organisers with your entry fee(s). * ice: the style was contemporary and closer walk with God. SEC Youth the church was packed with youth leader Colin Stewart joined Newbold fulfilment of our mission as church Katebe, both members of Balham PATRICK McKERROW • As soon as you receive your sponsorship forms, start seeking sponsor- in the BUC. church. Born in Lusaka, Zambia, on ship from your neighbours, friends, work colleagues or fellow students. and church members. As part of a pastors to pray over the four young GERSHOM MPIIMA 23 April 1982, and a fifth generation • When you have completed the walk collect the sponsorship monies series of sermons on the ten com- women, asking a blessing on their mandments Pastor Patrick Johnson walk with God. Newbold church Adventist on his paternal side, Sam and send the sponsorship form and the total received by cheque to was attracted to medicine after ADRA-UK. preached on ‘You shall not steal’ and celebrated these four women’s focused on how nothing should be decision with their friends from reading Gifted Hands by Dr Ben * You can deduct the entry fee from the sponsorship money if you able to steal our relationship with school as well as their families; Carson. The book, given to him by obtain £50 or more in received sponsorship. Christ. some were attending church for his father Enoch, senior elder at (Entry fees: Adults £10. Under 18s, students & unemployed £8 – Four young women walked into the first time that Sabbath. Balham, explains how Ben Carson progressed from a broken home, credit cards accepted.) the baptismal pool and were bap- PASTOR KIRSTEN ØSTER-LUNDQVIST, tised by Pastor Kirsten NEWBOLD CHURCH poor self-esteem, street fighting and Øster-Lundqvist. In a a bad temper to a top surgeon today, church packed with over through the power of God. The book ‘Mr Menkens, we miss you!’ through Jesus Christ. An inspiration left such an impression on the young 500 people, Marju, Ané, Casilda at 105 Dr Ben Carson, an inspiration to the young Katya and Putri shared to all, she has both knowledge and man that all he wanted was to be After 35+ years, Mr Terry Menkens Mrs Smiley (Casilda, ‘Aunt C’) was their testimonies. In par- wisdom. Mrs Smiley is caring and hung up his D&T lab coat, and laid born in Jamaica in 1902. She had ticular, friends Putri and compassionate, kind to all, and down his Maths and Geography fifteen children, six of whom are people of visionary passion – Western Europe and that European Katya shared how they, non-judgemental. chalk. Clearly displaying excellence alive and well in 2007. Christ’s radiant presence in the Adventism as a whole is becoming through friends at second- All of her descendants and in all three subjects he taught, She has been a Christian all her world’. He encouraged members to increasingly a patchwork of ethnic ary school, had come to friends would like to wish Mrs Stanborough School was truly life and loves the Lord very much. shape their lives by a prophetic groups with the potential for inter- know Newbold church Casilda Smiley, ‘Aunt C’, hearty blessed with having not only a She has been living in Dudley, West vision of the ‘holiness of beauty’. ethnic theological conflicts. youth. Through debates congratulations on reaching one skilful teacher, but also a loving Midlands, since 1990 and at present In the Sabbath afternoon conver- Roy Branson suggested that and discussion, both Katya hundred and five years old on friend. she resides in a nursing home. sation, Dr Branson was joined by American Adventists have had a and Putri had gone from 2 April 2007. From the day he arrived to the Mrs Smiley is a mother, a grand- other ‘Adventist-watchers’ and aca- double sense of ethnic centrality in atheism to accepting KATHLEEN SMILEY, HANDSWORTH day he left, Mr Menkens became mother, a great-grandmother, and demics for a conversation led by that both the founders and the fun- synonymous with many things; even a great-great-grandmother. Newbold’s Vice Principal, Dr Michael ders of the Church have traditionally virtuoso at the , expert in She is a woman who is loved and Faces of Adventism Pearson. The subject of the conver- been American, while European geography, mathematical genius, admired by all who are in her com- A Sabbath afternoon conversation sation was ‘Shoulder to Shoulder – Adventists have felt marginal both to specialist in woodwork, loving pany, and she loves to express life in Newbold College’s Salisbury Hall Are Adventists in Europe and the mainstream Adventism and to main- husband, brilliant dad, and helpful friend. Mr Menkens was the prime climaxed a series of lectures by Dr USA facing the same challenges?’ stream European culture. He sug- example of what Stanborough School wishes to offer to its students. Roy Branson, Professor of Ethics and Dr Reinder Bruinsma, leader of gested that European Adventists We remember Mr Menkens as a man who encouraged his students to Public Policy, and Director for the the Adventist Church in the should ask how Adventism could be be creative and also as one who willingly took part in charity events, hav- Centre for Law and Public Policy at Netherlands, noted that, ‘Adventism enriched by European qualities and ing little children throw wet sponges in his face for a good cause. We Columbia Union College. did not emerge in a vacuum and identified reason, radical reforming remember Mr Menkens as a man who upheld values such as respect, During the week, three lectures while we can’t take America out of principles and experience and honesty, confidence and integrity and brought them to our young leaders of had identified three ‘faces’ of Adventism, we need to do a great understanding of universal human tomorrow. Adventism personified by ‘dutiful educational work in making clear rights as being specific European Mr Menkens, we miss you and we wish you the best in your retirement. rationalists’, ‘intrepid reformers’ and which parts of Adventism are cultur- strengths. RAY DALIAS ‘passionate visionaries’. On Sabbath ally and historically conditioned.’ A full report and photographs Editor: Mr Menkens began teaching at Stanborough School in January 1964. After that, apart morning Dr Branson reminded the Journalist Keith Lockhart reported of the event can be seen on the from the period 1968-77 when he taught in the US and Australia, he taught at Stanborough congregation in Newbold church that statistics which suggest that Newbold College website, www.new Park for his entire teaching career. Terry retired recently and lives in Watford. He continues to the Adventist church’s mission was Adventism has been twice as suc- bold.ac.uk. be passionate about D&T, Maths and Geography. Pastors Johnson and Lundqvist with the four candidates ‘to be a people of Apocalypse, a cessful in Eastern Europe as in HELEN PEARSON, NEWBOLD PRO 4 Messenger 5 Messenger Distinguished Service Awards Richards for the North Conference, and Audrey Muniyati Nottingham District Day of Fellowship Timmy Tiufaki (Bulwell church) Jonathan Edwards at Scotland’s Claude Ford (Bulwell church) laid our local prayer concerns before by Communication department Robert Mokaya (Nottingham Central church) the Lord. by John Wilby, Winfred Anderson (Nottingham Central church) We were delighted to have many Rachael Frances (Nottingham Central church) Youth Day of Fellowship Communcation sponsor SM nited in fellowship Edel Christie (Nottingham Central church) distinguished guests including BUC Maxine Carradice (Nottingham Central church) president Don McFarlane, Pastors was the motto for the Ken Griffiths (Nottingham Central church) Organised by the local youth, others emulates the character of age each other and pray together. day and united in fel- Isen Taylor (Nottingham Central church) Paul Haworth (executive secretary of Edinburgh church was the venue on Jesus and is a Christian imperative; In an innovative altar call, the lowship we were. Julie Scott (Bulwell church) the NEC), Fred Mapp and Roy U Harry Wood (Nottingham Central church) 24 March for a Scottish Mission that personal testimony is the congregation was invited to write on Morgan, also from the NEC. In a Months of planning and Joyce Sharpe (Bulwell church) Youth Day of Fellowship. In a depar- most powerful method of sharing the sticky side of post-it notes their rehearsal had helped our dis- Pastor George Harris powerful message, Pastor McFarlane ture from conventional Sabbath the Gospel with others and that personally perceived obstacle to Veronica Lewis encouraged us to ‘Stand fast in one trict bring to fruition such an Georgina Miller (Nottingham Central church) School, Jonathan Edwards led out on no matter what our personal mission outreach and to place them inspiring day. When the day Sam Nugent (Nottingham Central church) spirit’ and exhorted us to ‘live wor- thought-provoking problems facing circumstances, there is always a on the platform lectern. A prayer was over, Pastor George Kumi Stanley Hardy (Long Eaton church) thy of the sacrifice’. A splendid youth today. These were identified reason to give thanks to God. He was then offered that God would Pearl White (Long Eaton church) reflective piece of music was ren- reminded Pastor Patrick Millicent Richards (Long Eaton church) as gang violence, depression, debt, also underlined the benefit of small remove these impediments and Herbert of when he turned to Muriel Elson (Nottingham Central church) dered by Joan and Carlington who premature sexual activity, peer fellowships where young people are embolden those present to share him some months ago and Michael Mapp (Nottingham Central church) led us to ponder on the fact that pressure, alcohol and drug abuse. accountable to one another, encour- their faith. Devon Elliot (Nottingham Central church) ‘He’s More than Wonderful’. said, ‘I have a crazy idea’, Dorothy Tate (Nottingham Central church) Referencing the biblical examples of and this was how the idea for Mavis Francis (Long Eaton church) The afternoon carried with it an Zacchaeus and Jesus, David and (Nottingham Central church) element of curiosity and mystique as the day of fellowship was Michael Scott Snr (Bulwell church) Goliath and the store-gathering conceived. From then on, Mary Johnson (Bulwell church) those who attended asked, ‘What is parable, lively group discussions Edinburgh youth premiere U-tube movie Pastors Herbert and Kumi Vashti Calham (Bulwell church) this “Recognition and Appreciation ensued, examining the corresponding A packed congregation at the Youth Day of Fellowship enjoyed the premiere of John Kirk (Long Eaton church) Service” all about?’ Pastor Herbert joined their churches together in Victor Speak (Long Eaton church) modern-day issues of Value, Image a video movie produced and directed by Edinburgh church youth. The 23- planning and preparing for this day. Sis Speak (Long Eaton church) outlined the concept of this service, and Security. minute broadcast-quality production uses cross-cultural topical issues and a The Vineyard Church in Lenton quoting the words of Martin Luther: Scottish Mission Youth sponsor, mixture of Monty Python and Rap humour to emphasise an important opened its doors to Seventh-day ‘No work is insignificant.’ All labour Pastor Marcel Ghioalda, concluded Christian message. An original idea of the Edinburgh youth group, it includes Adventists, friends and family for four local projects which are being undertaken in that uplifts humanity is important. In the Youth Week of Prayer, by explor- humorous cameo appearances from Pastor Jimmy Botha and youth leader Nottingham district’s day of fellow- the district. The short film was narrated by Julie this quotation, even the street ing four facets in the life of a Chantel Davies. It is now available to view and download at ship. An attractive grouping of teens Scott whose attention to detail and precision were sweeper was exhorted to do his job Christian who worships God and www.youtube.com and uniformed Pathfinders greeted second to none. The four projects filmed were: well. However, though we work untir- whose heart is the very dwelling JOHN WILBY, Communication sponsor, SM the arriving congregation with glossy 1. Nottingham Central – feeding the homeless ingly, none of us is indispensable. place of Christ. They are Service to programmes, ushering some to their project which has been in operation since 1994. Pastor Herbert aptly emphasised this Others, Personal Testimony, Giving Galway baptism seats. The large high-roofed audi - 2. Long Eaton – John Kirk produced hundreds point with the poem ‘The Thanks and the importance of Small torium resounded to the music of of evangelistic DVDs which he is distributing free Indispensable Man’. The moral? Do Fellowships. He said that service to Sabbath 31 March was a day a polished praise team and band, of charge. One young male contact has already the best you can, be proud of your- of great joy and celebration which led the congregation of hun- visited this church through this venture. self, but remember: there is no in the Galway church. On dreds in a series of rousing hymns 3. Nottingham Central – ongoing senior citizens’ indispensable man. Adventist graduates at that day, in the baptistery set and songs. residential home visitation programme. He concluded his remarks by Galway University in the grounds of the Galway Good news certainly had 4. Karen Hickley from Long Eaton was seen being saying, ‘We should strive for it to be The Galway church was deeply hon- church, Exavier Muwalo was travelled far as there were baptised on 11 March with her husband. Her ‘light said of us, “Here is a child of God oured when one of its members, baptised. Exavier, who hails visitors from as far north as bulb’ inspiration moment came when she got the who does their job well.” ’ Dumisani Bhebhe, graduated at the from Zambia and has come Manchester and as far south idea to have a market stall. Her wares would Pastor Fred Mapp (Ministerial National University of Ireland, to live in Ireland with his wife as and all stops in include Christian books, Bibles and DVDs. Her secretary for the NEC), delivered a Galway. Dumisani received a and family, was described as between. Large numbers of aim? ‘To build bridges in the community and offer soul-searching message prior to the Masters in Philosophy, for which he being a very zealous and children and teenagers them meaning in their lives.’ unexpected presentation of some had been studying for the past two dedicated Bible student by enhanced the day with an Divine service was a picture of diversity and thirty-one plaques to individuals years. The title of his thesis was Stephen Wilson, pastor of the added air of excitement. the inclusiveness that God extends to all who are who had given excellent service to ‘Ideological and sociological implica- Galway church. Throughout the day, the willing to work for him. To see confident earliteens, the church in various capacities. tions of political violence in theme of unity was evident Gift and Lucchin, reading alternate verses from This presentation climaxed in a Zimbabwe.’ as members from all of the Psalm 91 truly was a joy to see. We were thrilled paparazzi-style photo-shoot, which Dumisani, who comes from churches in the district, to hear the children’s choir as they provided back- was followed by a highly-charged, Zimbabwe, has a deep concern for young and not so young, new ing for Ashton Patterson (one of our senior teens) anthem-style piece by the mass the welfare and future of his fellow Laurent Grosvenor, an 18- and seasoned members, all who sang ‘Yes You Can’. choir entitled, ‘It is My Desire to Zimbabweans. He described writing year-old student from contributed to the services. We were To say that our day was bathed in good quality Praise Him’. the thesis as ‘an enriching experi- Manchester, gave the sermon blessed with two lively presentations music would be an understatement. Also in divine The evening was brought to a ence’, and one of the conclusions he in which he talked about the of the Sabbath school lesson from service, the group simply named Kelly and Co, joyous relaxing end by a draws from it is that ‘as a church need for dedicated Adventists George Mabeza and Calvin Williams gave a harmonious rendition of a theme brought featuring much of the local talent. we can also contribute to the build- in the last days. ‘God’s house who helped stimulate minds and out in Ecclesiastes, ‘God understands your tears, Pastors Herbert and Kumi gave ing of a nation such as Zimbabwe.’ is full, but the fields are generate discussion as thoughts Even when you think you can’t go on let your soul thanks to God for what had been He added that the Christian church- empty,’ he said. Laurent from the wise man Solomon were cry out to the Lord.’ Throughout the day musical accomplished on this day. Members es ‘can spearhead giving people urged those present ‘to know considered. There was further accompaniment was of the highest professional not only united in fellowship, but hope’. how deep the Father’s love is home-grown contribution to the standard. members united in purpose. Dumisani expresses his gratitude – above all measure.’ The Sabbath school programme as a Our divine service had many ingredients, none For those who were unable to be to the Irish government for the day was blessed with beauti- special DVD mission spotlight had so important as our Pastoral Prayer time. This was there, this day has been captured on chance to study at NUI, Galway, and ful, sunny weather as Exavier been filmed and edited by one of our divided into three sections by three individuals a set of DVDs, which we recommend for the prayers of the Galway church surrendered his life to Christ young men, Dominic Elliott from the from the various churches in the district. Robert you make part of your DVD during his studies. in the open-air baptistery. Bulwell church. This DVD featured Mokaya prayed for the world Church, Millie collection. OLIVER MARTYN OLIVER MARTYN

6 Messenger 7 Messenger ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS 2007 GOOD HEALTH ASSOCIATION LIMITED Notice is hereby given that the hundred and fourth Annual Friday 30 November – Sunday 2 December 2007 General Meeting of the Good Health Association Limited Staverton Park Hotel, Daventry, Northamptonshire will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 at 2pm in the Board Room of the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Tensions between you and your teens? Adventists, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts. Are you struggling to understand their culture/scene? On behalf of the Board of Directors Do you know how to identify ‘at risk’ behaviour? M. Hayles (Secretary) Is the law for or against you SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST TRUST and your teens? COMPANY LIMITED Have the sins of the father been Notice is hereby given that the twenty-fifth Annual General Meeting of the Seventh-day Adventist Trust Company passed on to the child? Limited will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 at 2.10pm in the Board Room of the British Union Conference of All these topics and more Seventh-day Adventists, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts. will be discussed during the On behalf of the Board of Directors weekend conference being D. Cleary (Secretary) organised by the BUC Youth Department. Hopefully you SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST ASSOCIATION LIMITED Notice is hereby given that the hundred and second will come back rejuvenated, Annual General Meeting of the Seventh-day Adventist refreshed and ready to cross Association Limited will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 the age and culture gap and at 2.20pm in the Board Room of the British Union get to know your teens once Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Stanborough Park, more. Your lives might never Watford, Herts. be the same again! On behalf of the Board of Directors D. Cleary (Secretary) Cost of £100 per person. GOOD HEALTH ASSOCIATION (SCOTLAND) LIMITED For more details and Notice is hereby given that the fortieth Annual General an application form, Meeting of the Good Health Association (Scotland) Limited please call 01923 672251 will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 at 2.35pm in the or email Natalie on Board Room of the British Union Conference of Seventh- day Adventists, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts. ndavison@ On behalf of the Board of Directors adventist.org.uk M. Hayles (Secretary) ADRA-UK Notice is hereby given that the ninth Annual General Meeting of ADRA-UK will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 at 2.45pm in the Board Room of the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts. On behalf of the Board of Directors B. Smit (Secretary) THE STANBOROUGH PRESS LIMITED Notice is hereby given that the hundred and thirteenth Annual General Meeting of the Stanborough Press Limited will be held on Thursday 7 June 2007 at 3pm in the Board Room of the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Contact Angela Robinson, Adventists, Stanborough Park, Watford, Herts. SEC Teen Ministries, On behalf of the Board of Directors 25 St John’s Road, P. Hammond (Secretary) Watford, WD17 1PZ. Tel: 01923 232 728, ABC BOOK SALES email: youth@ June secadventist.org.uk 11-17 Camp Meeting July 8 John Loughborough 10.30am-2pm 15 Harper Bell 10.30am-2pm Situations Vacant Teens Ministry have several openings for volunteers. We are seeking enthusiastic people with experience and/or knowledge in one of the following areas, to assist in the development of community projects involving teenagers: Messenger Abused women, Book illustration, Cancer care, Car mechanics, Volume 112 • 11 – 18 May 2007 Carpentry, Catering, Children in care, Electricians, EDITOR: D. N. MARSHALL Gardening/landscaping, Interior design, Painting & decorating, People DESIGN: DAVID BELL with special needs, Plumbing (water & gas), Radio, Sex education, COPY FOR No. 13 – 28 May 2007 Sports coaching, Young mothers, Young offenders. Teens Ministry is also seeking a volunteer to lead our sales and Copy should be sent to the Editor, MESSENGER, The marketing team. Stanborough Press Limited , Alma Park, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 9SL. Tel: (01476) 591700. For more information please contact Pastor Robert Hines, Fax No: (01476) 577144. Associate Youth Director, Teens Ministry, 25 St. Johns Road, Email: [email protected] Watford, WD17 1PZ. Tel: 01923 656524. Send high resolution pictures to: Email: [email protected]. [email protected] ABC Sales line: (01476) 539900 Mon-Thurs only, 8am- 6pm. The Editor may alter, clarify, précis or expand articles sent to him if he thinks it necessary. Published fortnightly on Fridays by the British Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Printed in Denmark. Visit the BUC website at:www.adventist.org.uk ISSN 0309-3654

Sunset Sunset times are reproduced with permission from data supplied by the Science Research Council. Lond Card Nott Edin Belf May 18 8.50 9.02 9.00 9.24 9.27 25 9.00 9.12 9.11 9.36 9.39 Jun 1 9.08 9.20 9.20 9.46 9.48 8 9.15 9.27 9.27 9.55 9.56

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