Fires Savage South West 6 Youth Scene

theadvocate.tv FEBRUARY 2016

In Conversation Writer, speaker, and Six things pastors need from broadcaster Sheridan Voysey talks about younger adults. developing resilience. PAGE 12 >> DAVE KRAFT PAGE 13>>

5 Freedom award Behind the Barcode recognised for contribution to anti-slavery >>

Fires savage South West 6 Youth scene

Photo: Department of Fire and Emergency Services Changes are on the Baptist churches assist the South West community after summer bush fires cause havoc. horizon for WA Baptist youth in 2016 >> were working together to host a There will be long-term ways to fundraising concert to benefit those support and encourage.” Every West Australian would be aware of the devastation affected by the fires. and heartache caused by the recent bush fires to strike “Our church is getting ready to To support those who have Yarloop and the wider shires of Harvey and Waroona. help with the medium to long-term lost homes and property Baptist rebuilding work,” Richard said. Churches Western Australia “It’s going to take a long time for (BCWA) has opened the Baptist Malcolm Taylor, 73 and Les Taylor, A number of members of people to pick up the pieces and get Relief Fund for donations which will 77, both tragically died in the Australind Baptist Church were life back in order.” allow Baptist churches in the region fire, unable to escape the inferno involved in the fire fighting efforts “We would ask people to pray to support their local community. 7 New Vose facilities surrounding their homes. The with two volunteer and one career with us for wisdom to know how to Over $15,000 had been raised at the Vose Seminary is in the entire town of Yarloop has been firefighter on duty at the frontline engage with all of this. People will time of going to print. midst of an exciting decimated. In total 121 homes of the fire. experience compassion fatigue.” Donations can be made phase >> were lost as well as historic At the time of going to print “There will be many needs – not through local Baptist churches timber workshops, factories, old the combined churches of the for material things. They’ve already or by contacting BCWA direct on churches, the hospital, local shops, Australind, Eaton and Bunbury area asked people to stop donating. 08 6313 6300. the hotel, and the local school badly damaged. Australind Baptist Church Building Pastor Richard Foster and his wife Ros live in Preston Beach and WA couple feared abducted healthy the fires got dangerously close to their home, causing them to be their lives to providing medical churches. evacuated to the beach on three relief to people in the remote separate occasions. Grave fears are held for former Perth couple Dr Ken northern area of Burkina Faso,” “The beach was totally safe and and Mrs Jocelyn Elliott who are missing, presumed the statement said. some people were evacuated by abducted from their West African home by “Their commitment to boat from the beach,” Richard said. the local people is reflected “The worst day for us was the suspected Islamist extremists. in the fact that they have third time we were evacuated to continued there with only a BAPTIST CHURCHES the beach. That was Friday when The couple, in their 80s are based family released the few holidays since 1972. They WESTERN AUSTRALIA the fire was very close to coming believed to have been abducted following statement. are held in high esteem by the around the top of the salt lake that on Friday 15 January in Burkina “Ken and Jocelyn began their local people.” runs parallel to the beach. If that Faso following an attack on hospital work in the town of Djibo “Recent news from the had happened we could have been the capital of Ouagadougou on in northern Burkina Faso in 1972. country indicates an alleged in big trouble.” Friday that killed 28 people. At present they operate a surgical abduction of Ken and Jocelyn A number of people left Preston At the time of going to clinic with around 120 beds where on Friday night, however no Beach on the Saturday of the week print Ken and Jocelyn were still Ken is the sole surgeon, supported reason is yet given for this of the fires and were unable to head missing, feared held hostage by a small number of dedicated and their whereabouts is south so a police escorted convoy and their Western Australian local staff. They have dedicated still unknown.” headed north to Perth. 2 my view

FEBRUARY 2016 Love, God’s answer to fear

Looking into my daughter’s eyes as she gasped for breath one night I knew deep when I feel like I am drowning fear. Fear is insidious, its potential to overwhelm grows in the moments that and distant He is still present. we rely on ourselves and not God. It’s fed by our own feelings of uselessness, Reflecting on that long night I was reminded again of why we worthlessness, distance from the creating and all-powerful God. Our denial or live in Mozambique. Not because ignorance of truth. we want our kids to suffer from lack of healthcare, but because we want our neighbours to know On that night the isolation of Fear that the doctor was right impotent over sick family the same peace and assurance living in a remote Mozambique and my baby might die. Fear members. I knew what it felt to that we have. I want to see fear village set in. With many that without hospital care she be hopeless. broken. I want them to have hope, hours travel between us and had no chance. Fear of failing Thankfully, my feelings of to know and live in truth. medical facilities, being advised as a mother to protect those fear although overwhelming were People get sick and struggle Bek Falconer that without urgent hospital entrusted to me. temporary. God reminded me globally. Fear is ubiquitous. Let’s Bek Falconer is a cross‑cultural attention my child might die was That night I knew the reality repeatedly that night and in the be part of revealing God’s perfect worker for Global Interaction shattering. I’d like to say that that our neighbours live with. I days and months to come of His love which casts out fear. I want in Mozambique. in that moment my trust was understood what drove them to faithfulness, His love greater than in, do you? completely and unwaveringly seek magic to protect their kids. that of a parent. His power over in God, but it wasn’t. In that I felt their fear and knew the the spirits, over sickness, over moment I was gripped by fear. pain they felt as they hovered fear. I was reminded that even

My Fitbit

If you are curious as to what my Christmas present was, I got a Fitbit (plus no idea, but it is pretty cool being chocolates, socks, books and more). Truth to tell, a few weeks before Christmas able to start a conversation, I had never even heard of this gadget and asked for one only because it seemed “So what’s your current heart rate? Mine is 58”. (I’m typing the top of everyone’s wish list. But now I am the proud owner of this instrument so fast it’s crept up from the (I am trying not to say Fitbit lest I be accused of advertising), it is rapidly taking previous paragraph.) over my life. Amazing the information so readily at hand. So much so that it is easy to forget the For the handful of ignorant heart rate. Currently I can assure have walked (3,777 – but the day probing question asked in the readers who have no idea what you that I am alive with a heart is not over yet) and even, how Westminster Shorter Catechism: I am talking about, let me tell rate of 57 beats per minute. But long you sleep for (6 hours and “What is the chief end of man? you about the skill set of this wait – there is more. It also tells 7 minutes on average – though Man’s chief end is to glorify God, Dr Brian Harris remarkable device (see, I didn’t you how many calories you have it doesn’t differentiate between and to enjoy him forever.” And we Dr Brian Harris is the say Fitbit). burnt in the day (1,337 thus far, being awake and pretending should do that regardless of how Principal of Vose Seminary First, it tells the time – which with a prediction I will finish on to be awake while your mind many steps we have or haven’t and Pastor at Large for the could make my mobile phone 2,044 – most annoying, in light of wanders elsewhere). walked today ... Carey Group. redundant. But wait – there is the chocolate bar I was thinking So why is this knowledge more ... It also tells you your of eating), how many steps you revolutionary? I have absolutely

What’s trending?

A simple ‘what’s trending’ Google search has given me a small insight into what given that Jesus is inspiring! makes the people of 2016 tick. In this captured moment of time, according to Just reading the accounts of how whatstrending.com, it appeared that there was an array of different topics that people responded to His stories and miracles, we see His following grabbed the interest of those perusing the World Wide Web. grow rapidly as He travelled. But are God’s people offering this Within just a couple of hours of the most inspiring moments of ‘inspirational quotes’. And history inspiration to the unchurched? these videos and articles being 2015 and a huge 8,500 people shows, that the likes of Martin At the risk of giving a gross uploaded, viewers determined viewed the article and video on Luther King, Nelson Mandela, generalisation, I dare to say ‘no’. that the following were worthy of the most inspiring women of Mother Teresa, Helen Keller and At least not in the way that Jesus one’s attention: a wall-climbing 2015, all within the first hours many more, impacted millions of did, I mean, Jesus is Jesus. And robot made by Disney had 554 of being uploaded. Despite what people and continue to because not in a way that generates the views, 946 people viewed 10,000 has actually been determined they created inspiration. mass interest like we see in our Sarah Baggaley sparklers being lit at once and as being inspirational, my As an evangelical Christian, ‘What’s Trending?’ data. Sarah Baggaley is the 1,700 people watched a deaf conclusion is that people are on I begin to ask, “How can we use But perhaps I am just reading Lead Pastor at Austin Cove husband finding out he is going a quest for inspiration. the need of inspiration to reach too much into this, after all, 2,200 Community Church. to be a dad for the first time. But We turn to social media out to the unchurched? Are we people also watched the video, here is where I feel human nature where some of the most shared as Christians inspiring? Is the This Little Girl Really Loves is revealed: 3,300 people relived and liked posts are termed church inspirational?” It is a to Fart. letters to the editor send us your letters

The Advocate welcomes your letters to the editor on topics of concern to you and the community. Send your letters of no more than 100 words to [email protected] by the 10th of each month. news 3

FEBRUARY 2016 Vale: Robert Kable Clark AM

education through the Baptist Theological College of Western Robert Kable Clark AM was a friend to many. They Australia (now known as Vose knew him as Bob, someone who listened well and Seminary) to support and enrich enjoyed a joke. He was also an influential man of pastoral workers’ ministry life. In 2005 he was made faith, a leader. a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Bob was born in Mount Lawley Tahmoor, NSW (1960–1961); Australia Day Honours on 13 March 1935 and passed Mount Pleasant (1962–1964); ‘for service to the Baptist away 21 December 2015. He Maida Vale (1964–1967); Yokine Churches of Western Australia completed high school at (1968–1974) and Kenmore, through the establishment Guildford Grammar and worked Queensland (1975–1980) of education programs for in his father’s accountancy before serving as General theological students’. business before training as Superintendent of the Baptist Worker pastors in the a Baptist pastor through the Union of WA (now Baptist communities of the North West Baptist Theological College of Churches Western Australia) for and the value of Scripture Union New South Wales. 20 years from 1981. camps and school ministries Bob married Sue Brazier on Nationally Bob represented were also Bob’s passions. 21 December 1963 and together WA on the National Council, With his ability to be the Bob Clark and his wife Sue at Government House, Perth where he was they had three children, Rowan, Baptist Union of Australia (1981– friend of everyone, Bob often awarded the Member of the Order of Australia. Bronwyn and Judson. The 2000) and played a key role in engaged with people at times of family was changed forever the formation of Crossover, brokenness. He had a keen sense More than 640 people Jan Thomson and Arthur when Bronwyn died at the helping the denomination of his own flawed nature and attended the memorial service at Payne spoke of Bob’s life age of 14 from leukaemia on engage evangelistically in a his deep need for God’s grace. Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and ministry. 27 December 1983. changing culture. His friend Arthur Payne who on 29 December 2015. Alongside his effective and Bob poured his energy into the Bob showed great concern spoke about Bob’s ministry at Bob’s widow, Sue Clark, far-reaching ministry, Bob was ministry of the Baptist churches in about the welfare and ongoing his memorial service believes National Director of the Baptist a loving and devoted husband Western Australia and nationally. training of Baptist pastors. In this acceptance of his own need Union of Australia Keith of Sue, father of Rowan and He pastored Baptist churches 1984 he was instrumental in helped him speak truth to others Jobberns, friends and ministry Judson and grandfather of at North Beach (1958–1959); establishing supervised field during difficult conversations. colleagues Bruce Jenner, Ally and Jayden.

Hope for average church

Jill Birt got everything,” Vose Leadership’s Monica O’Neil said. Churches face some unique Not every church has experienced and gifted issues which the day’s speakers musicians to the level of a university or performing arts Jess Magowan (Worship Pastor academy trained music student. For some churches Inglewood Church), Monica O’Neil (Vose Leadership) and having someone who can help with playing music or Michael O’Neil (Vose Seminary) leading each week is a big issue. will address. The event is planned Vose Leadership and Inglewood culture, inspiring worship in small for Saturday 12 March from Community Church are settings, structuring a service 9am to 12 noon at Inglewood partnering to present a conference and developing small teams,” Community Church. on worship ideas and resources for Inglewood Community Church

churches needing assistance. Pastor Mark Edwards said. For more information Edwards Mark Photo: “We’re going to look at a range “Bring your team. It’s going to and to register, visit Vose Leadership and Inglewood Community Church hope to help of subjects including changing be inspiring, short, low cost. It’s www.inglewoodchurch.org.au churches with worship ideas and resources on 12 March.

CASEWORKER position for Fusion ENROL NOW FOR Housing service. The Fusion Student Housing Service ST is a Christian ministry that provides an 1 SEMESTER 2016 accommodation service in the Bentley area for High School students unable “I know the plans I have to live at home because of family With a trusted and highly qualified faculty difficulties. Training and experience in Vose offers outstanding qualifications in for you,” declares the Lord, casework with young people theology, ministry, education and more. “plans to prosper you and essential. P/T 10hrs/wk. Everything from a Cert IV to a PhD. not to harm you, plans to LIVE IN SUPPORT WORKERS needed ARE Coupled with highly sought after leadership give you hope and a future.” YOU LOOKING FOR ACCOMMODATION professional development and mentoring Jer 29:11 AND INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE? programs Vose is your choice if you are serious about growing in faith, knowledge and wisdom. Fusion Australia in Perth are seeking Volunteers to share a house with young people and other volunteers. Volunteers provide role modelling, support and mentoring for the young WHY NOT STUDY ONLINE? people they share the house with. Free rent, food and training supplied. For more info on either of these T: 08 6313 6200 positions E: [email protected] RTO 0145 Contact Rose Braun: 0412017716 VET CRICOS 01052B [email protected] W: www.vose.edu.au ACT CRICOS 02650E 4 news

FEBRUARY 2016 2016 marks new era for Carey

After a long road to achieving government approval, Carey Baptist College’s new campus in Forrestdale finally began construction in late 2014 and opened its doors to students on Monday 1 February.

As preparation for the school year for Forrestdale to benefit from a continues, Nigel Wise, who will be wealth of skilled practitioners,” the Primary School Principal at Nigel said.

Forrestdale, is looking forward to The early stages of planning Photo: Carey Baptist College seeing the plans become a reality. for this campus saw some Carey families from the church, College and community came together for a Busy Bee in January at the new “It is an exciting challenge to challenges, in particular, gaining Forrestdale campus. be embarking on a second Carey council approval. The Carey campus at Forrestdale.” community continued to pray and great in helping us overcome Harrisdale campus families, “They have been great “Whilst the second campus seek God’s will through the season any problems that have arisen,” Carey Baptist Church members opportunities for families to see is a new College, in many ways it of uncertainty and since approval Tim explained. and other members of the Carey the new campus and to see years will be the culmination of years in 2014, everything has gone Outside of the classrooms, the community. Families and staff of dreaming become a reality.” of experience already garnered according to plan. campus also has the foundations have planted trees and shrubs, The Forrestdale Campus will from the journey travelled Carey’s Director of Business, of a new soccer oval and will spread mulch and lawn, and spent initially cater for Kindergarten at Harrisdale.” Tim Dorsman, says while some feature revitalisation of the native time together as a community. to Year 4 students, but will grow “With the crossover of staff minor difficulties have occurred, it wetland area located at the front of “It has been wonderful to see each year to eventually offer – some staff have expressed has been nothing out of the norm the campus block. so many people coming together Kindergarten to Year 12. Limited an interest in moving to the for a project of this size. Three Busy Bees have at the Busy Bees to get involved places are available in some years new campus – and the shared “Carey has fantastic support been held at the campus and and to meet one another,” Carey and families interested in applying governance structure, there from its contractors and all have been well attended by Community Relations Officer are encouraged to contact the will be a wonderful opportunity consultants who have been Forrestdale campus families, Caitlin du Toit said. Carey enrolments team soon.

The inside story continued

felt it important to continue helping people on their personal Head of Baptist Women’s Ministry WA and Riverview journey and consequently a Church Executive Minister Karen Wilson has been second edition has recently humbled by the overwhelming response to her book been released. “I have kept the writing real The Inside Story following a small launch with family and honest – perhaps a little too and friends in March 2014. honest at times.” “I share directly from my journal entries made in some Karen wrote her book out of a for sharing your ‘Inside Story’. pretty tough seasons and personal journey in discovering Spoke to my heart and I know lead people on a journey of living an authentic life and the I have a lot more to do on my discovering who they are on the challenges that come with that. journey. Thank you for the tools inside is who they truly are.” Since its launch, hundreds to help along the way!”, one With the second edition of people have communicated reader shared. release, a new website about the how the book is impacting “Almost weekly, people are author and her book has also their everyday lives and getting in touch to let me know been launched. the communities in which that my story feels like their they live. story,” Karen said. To view the new website or “Just finished reading your When the first print run purchase The Inside Story, visit book – awesome, thank you completely sold out, Karen www.karensinsidestory.com The Inside Story has touched hundreds of people’s lives. digital church

11/01/16 18/01/2016 19/01/2016 19/01/2016 of His handiwork. This is Todd Adkins Brian Croft Jon Bloom John Piper one way we shrink ourselves twitter.com/ToddAdkins practicalshepherding.com/blog desiringgod.org desiringgod.org and magnify God – through Your faith in Christ must be Pastors, don’t lose sight of the In your affliction, cry out to Never, never, never be childlike faith, we are to personal but it cannot be sick, suffering, and afflicted in God for help [Exodus 2:23]. He cavalier or trifling about your become like children, fully private. your congregation for the more hears. And when the time is perseverance. God uses real dependent on God our Father glamorous parts of pastoral right, God will answer you. For warnings to keep us vigilant and enthralled once again at the 15/01/16 ministry. In fact, I believe it is God sees you – and He knows. and to keep us persevering. world He has given us. Scott Pasley the faithfulness of our labours We are safe … Press on to make citybibleforum.org in the trenches that God uses 19/01/2016 salvation your own, as Paul 20/01/16 God’s peace is at once radically to make our public ministries Victoria Osteen says, because Christ has made Simon Elliott offensive – it’s peace on God’s more useful and powerful. joelosteen.com you his own [Philippians 3:12]. writesomething.org.au terms – and yet wonderfully Do you know what God says Let Godly sorrow lead you to liberating – God Himself has 18/01/2016 about worry? He says, “Just 19/01/2016 repentance because whatever borne the cost of the peace. Kyle Idleman don’t do it!” Worry can get us Trevin Wax you’ve done, you cannot outrun twitter.com/KyleIdleman off course faster than anything. thegospelcoalition.org God’s grace. No one has outrun There is nothing life can throw We aren’t meant to be directed One way for us to recapture his grace yet and I don’t reckon at us that God can’t use to draw by worry; we are meant to be a sense of the glory of God is you’re going to be the first! us closer to Him. directed by the Spirit of God. through seeing the grandeur news 5

FEBRUARY 2016 Award for Behind the Barcode

Samara Linehan

Baptist World Aid Australia was announced as a 2015 Freedom Award winner by Anti-Slavery Australia in November 2015.

The award recognises the by trafficking, forced labour and contribution to anti-slavery and child labour. The fashion industry trafficking initiatives made by has made remarkable progress Baptist World Aid Australia’s thanks to the media attention Behind the Barcode campaign, generated by the report and the particularly through The Australian action taken by Australians. Fashion Report. “This parallel benefit is an “At the same time as the uplifting reminder of how, campaign empowers consumers through increased awareness to make ethical chices, it also and education, we can empower empowers workers to raise people from different sides of the themselves out of poverty by barcode towards the common earning a living wage,” Associate goal of ending slavery and

Professor Jennifer Burn, exploitation,” Associate Professor Photo: Baptist World Aid Australia the Director of Anti-Slavery Burn said. Baptist World Aid Australia CEO John Hickey with Elizabeth Broderick, the former Sex Discrimination Australia said. “We were delighted to Commissioner. As the sister of the Electronics offer Baptist World Aid a 2015 Industry Trends report, The Freedom Award in recognition Of the four 2015 Freedom The release of the latest To download Australian Fashion Report of the significant contribution Award recipients, Baptist World Electronics Industry Trends report The Australian Fashion grades fashion companies on that their Behind the Barcode Aid Australia was the only is planned for February. A full report Report or order a free how resistant their processes of campaign has made in addressing organisation to be honoured with commentary will be included in the Ethical Fashion Guide, visit production are to being exploited labour exploitation.” this incredible recognition. March issue of The Advocate. behindthebarcode.org.au

Catalyst against injustice

Eliza Whalley Church, 4pm to 6.30pm. Baptist World Aid Australia workers Gershon Nimbalker (Sydney) and At the heart of poverty and injustice in our world is Dushan Jeyabalan (Perth) are the abuse and misuse of power – the exploitation leading the event. of vulnerable workers, multinational corporations Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the biblical siphoning taxes out of developing countries and picture of power and consider wealthy nations reneging on their commitments how we, as Christians in Australia, to help communities overseas lift themselves out can help make this picture a of poverty. reality by being a voice for the poor, the marginalised and the

oppressed in our world. Photo: Baptist World Aid Australia But what would our world What would our world look Catalyst is Baptist World The wife of a project leader with a victim of trafficking. The victim’s look like if the powerful like if power was exercised Aid Australia’s church-based mother is now working in their community to eliminate trafficking. (governments; corporations; in the way God intended it to advocacy program. It combines and even we as consumers, be exercised? advocacy with ministry, continually growing) they For more information or voters and advocates) used Baptist World Aid Australia will facilitating church engagement are able to create change to start a Catalyst group power to serve, rather than launch the 2016 Catalyst focus: with God’s work of justice. and transform the lives of at your church, phone exploit, communities living Poverty and Power in Perth on 13 With 65 active groups around people living in poverty in Dushan Jeyabalan on in poverty? February at North Beach Baptist the country (and that number extraordinary ways. 6313 6300.

Browns retire after 40 years of ministry

Ray will continue to contribute to the wider Baptist After 40 years of ministry Bellevue Baptist Church work through being a board Pastor Ray Brown has retired. Twenty-six of these member of Baptistcare. years were spent ministering to the community At the service, Ray said that a pastor really never retires but is at Bellevue. always open to God’s leading, and also acknowledged the support Ray studied with wife Sue honour Ray and his wife, Sue’s Sue was to his ministry. at Baptist Theological College years at Bellevue and celebrate A surprise party, which in Queensland from 1974 to Ray’s 40 years of ministry. As gathered many people from 1980 and prior to becoming part of the service Ray lead across the years of Ray and Sue’s pastor at Bellevue he held roles communion and both he and Sue ministry, was held in January at Tarragindi Baptist Church, served the congregation. where the first draft of a book of Rockville Baptist (both in Ray had a strong emphasis on appreciation was presented to the Queensland) and Katanning interacting with the community couple. To make a contribution to Baptist Church. and also in mentoring and the book contact Sarah Wickham

A special service was held developing student and at [email protected] Photo: Sarah Wickham at the Church in December to volunteer pastors. by the end of February. Pastor Ray Brown with wife Sue at their last service at Bellevue Baptist Church. 6 news

FEBRUARY 2016 Youth scene developments

Changes are on the horizon for the WA Baptist youth scene in 2016 with two new people taking on major roles.

Pastor Ed Devine commences as the new Baptist Churches Western Australia Youth and Young Adults Consultant in February, while Keith Campbell was appointed the new Director of SportsFest in November 2015. Ed has completed a Graduate Diploma of Divinity through Vose Seminary, graduated from the Arrow Leadership Program in 2014 and is a candidate in the Accreditation Stream with Baptist Churches Western Australia (BCWA). Ed began his pastoral ministry at Beaumaris Baptist Church in 2006 and was the Associate Pastor for Youth and Young Adults at Lake Joondalup Baptist Church from 2008 to 2014. In addition to the BCWA

role, Ed will commence a new Photo: Sarah Wickham ministry role as Youth Pastor at Quinns Baptist Church in early 2016. Ed describes himself as being ‘relationally driven’ and has a genuine heart and passion to SportsFest will have a new director, Keith Campbell, overseeing the event in 2016. mentor and develop leaders. Baptist Churches Western With Jeff Cross stepping basketballer and loves surfing. near future to obtain feedback Australia leadership believe down from the role as Director He has been on the SportsFest on last year’s SportFest. Keith that he brings a strong set of of SportsFest last November [The management group for several will welcome any comments skills, integrity and vision to the Advocate, November 2015], Keith years, actively assisting with and suggestions. role and that he will be a great will direct future SportsFest events. the yearly event, making him Organisation is well blessing to both youth and young Jeff and Keith will be working a suitable replacement for underway for the 2016 adults pastors and churches. together to ensure SportsFest the position. SportFest and Keith

Ed loves to surf and continues to grow and be the great He is very enthusiastic about encourages your church to Photo: BCWA rollerblade, which could be a event that it is renown to be. the contribution he can make start preparation for this year Pastor Ed Devine is ready for his benefit when relating to the youth Keith is a lecturer at to the role and will be in touch with all the opportunities the new role with Baptist Churches he will have contact with. Polytechnic West, an active with church coordinators in the event provides. Western Australia.

A Christian lawyer reflects

Gemma Mills Founded in 1958, RHL has a long relationship with the Baptist churches and is a member of the While studying law I had this vision of being in court Southern Cross Legal Alliance and advocating to advance justice. Whilst court work of Christian law firms. The is part of my role as a lawyer, the reality of the role is directors have maintained the values put in place by founder, more complex. the late Charles Robertson, (well known for his work in various We act for clients as their advisor demands on a professional ministries) and have ensured and often, counsellor, whilst still level. Thus it is important for that client wellbeing and ethical being engaged in complex legal Christian lawyers to try and find practice is paramount. transactions. It will come as no a comfortable balance between Whilst there will always surprise that, given the work we their faith and the realities of be occasions when conflicts undertake, there are times when professional practice. arise between professional and Christian lawyers are personally The firm you choose to personal values, working at RHL challenged, particularly when practice at can assist with this. gives me the tools and support it comes to balancing faith and I have always chosen firms to assist me in balancing my professional practice. that place a high emphasis professional ethics and personal Lawyers are often required on personal and professional integrity to the best of my ability. to balance honesty and integrity integrity and this is why I chose I believe this is important and at a personal level against to work at Robertson Hayles it is encouraging to work along

Photo: David Broadway adversarial practice and client Lawyers (RHL). others who share similar values. Gemma Mills is a Senior Associate at Robertson Hayles Lawyers news 7

FEBRUARY 2016

New Vose facilities A minute with ... Photo: Annette Palmer

Photo: Vose Seminary Geraldton Baptist Church Marcus Passauer (Administrator) and Dr Brian Harris (Principal) discuss progress with electricians working Pastor Craig Palmer on the new building. What led you to this role? extreme temperature changes Various bits of evidence over two years that indicated that which were experienced across God was moving us on to something else after being with Vose Seminary is in the midst of an exciting the seasons. Riverton Baptist Community Church for 19 years. It came to phase with its new building rapidly taking shape. Behind the scenes building fruition in taking up this role and we are really enjoying the Bricklaying is complete and the roof is in the process work has seen significant partnership alongside the people in Geraldton. upgrades of the electrical of being laid. switchboards and electrics. Where is the church located? Although some ‘hitches’ were 46 Quarry Street, Geraldton. The appearance of the new completion date of the project experienced, the changeover Seminary complex is becoming remains April 2016. to underground power and What time are services held? more obvious to students coming Another major development operation of the new switchboards We have a service at 10am every Sunday. to enrol for the coming semester, has been the installation of air was very successful. staff awaiting its new learning conditioning throughout the It is also hoped that a How and when did the church start? spaces and those driving by on Vose Library, making it a year repaint and repair the roof The church commenced in 1963 through the initiative of Des Hayman Road in Bentley. round research and writing of the existing buildings will Carmody of Irwin drawing together a collection of Baptists from Vose is already home to over friendly environment. Library be possible to improve the the surrounding area. 200 students and the new facility patrons and staff have already appearance of the whole will enable Vose to provide more enjoyed the cool environment Vose campus. Who makes up the ministry team? courses to train and equip people and readers are invited to come The entire project has been A range of volunteers in leadership across the church and in for ministry and service. The and have a quiet day reading, funded primarily from generous particular ministry settings. modern conference complex studying and writing with them. donations. If you would like will be ideal for the hosting of An important consideration to contribute to the repaint What is a feature of your church or ministry you’d like conferences and seminars. in air conditioning the Library and repair of the roof or any to share? Project Manager Ross Daniels has been resource preservation. other aspect of Vose Seminary We are discovering that we find a sense of belonging when said that the project is running Vose Library houses an extensive tax-deductible donations can we reach for a vision greater than our own. well with the builder working collection of theological be made. hard to maintain the rigorous books and records, one of the A final thought … schedule. This was evident largest collections of its type To make a donation or enquire Putting the mission of God in the hands of ordinary people with a huge team of bricklayers in Western Australia. These about Semester 1 courses, to help all types of people say ‘yes’ to Jesus is a compelling descending on the project in extensive resources are now commencing 1 March, phone adventure. [2 Corinthians 5:14-15] mid-November. The expected protected from the sometimes 6313 6200.

briefs

Vose booksale and chaplains is planned for 18 Rory Shiner, author of Raised denominations in this year’s by a walk through the city The popular annual Vose to 20 April in Mandurah. This is a Forever, will explain why he finds ‘Week of Prayer for Christian to finish with Evensong at Booksale will be held on 9 April great event for churches to send Easter the sweetest day of all. Unity’ and ending with a 5pm and refreshments at in the grounds of Vose Seminary, their teams to, giving them the Thursday 17 March 2016, 5.30pm- pilgrimage march. The week St George’s Cathedral. Hayman Road, Bentley. Although opportunity to enjoy fellowship 8pm, at the Atrium Theatrette, commences 12 noon Monday For more information, phone renowned for the selection of and learning with other Baptist 168 St Georges Terrace, Perth 9 May when the Pilgrimage Rev. Frances Hadfield Christian books available, the workers from across the state. Tickets from $22, including for Unity will be launched at on 0410 698 595. booksale also features an array of refreshments Elizabeth Quay by the Lord other books including children’s Sweet ’16 — What To register, visit citybibleforum. Mayor of the City of Perth. books, fiction, non-fiction, and does Easter mean? org/sweet16 The week will continue with antiquarian. Refreshments will be For billions of people Easter events at all the city churches available throughout the day. endures as their most important Pilgrimage for unity and end on Pentecost Sunday holiday. What really happened to The Council of Churches of with the Pilgrimage for Pastoral retreat Jesus on that first Easter Sunday? Western Australia are offering Unity starting at 1pm with The annual All Together Baptist And what, if anything, does it an amazing opportunity to worship and refreshments at Pastoral Retreat for Baptist pastors mean for our lives today? explore the City of Perth church St Mary’s Cathedral, followed 8 feature

FEBRUARY 2016

THE FANTASTIC TEAM OF WESTERN AUSTRALIANS SERVING WITH GLOBAL INTERACTION We’ I I Togeth W eliev God’s greatest gift is a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. In the middle of last year Global Interaction candidates Sally Pim and Glenn and Liz Black and their boys were given the opportunity to move in together. is to share the gift of Jesus and see Him embraced by all people around the world. Sally’s getting used to the early wake-up call of three little boys ready to play, Ou asi and Glenn’s enduring living with a Sydney Swans fan! Wit pasi and cultural sensitivity, Global Interaction exists to empower communities to develop their This is another step in their journey of being involved in one another’s pathway own distinctive ways of following Jesus. into cross-cultural mission. Sally visited Mozambique on a Global Xposure in 2012 and spent a further nine months serving their short-term. The Blacks’ interest Global Interaction is the international cross-cultural mission organisation of Australian Baptist churches. We send people to share the message of Jesus, establish in Global Interaction also began on a trip to Mozambique in 2013, and later that and nurture faith communities and provide Biblical training and leadership development. year Sally joined them on a short trip to Thailand. They all hope to head overseas at the beginning of next year, the Blacks Operating for over 130 years we have been known as Australian Baptist Foreign Mission (ABFM), Australian Baptist Missionary Society (ABMS) and now Global Interaction. to Thailand and Sally will join the team in Mozambique. This year they can support each other as they complete their studies, undergo training courses and make preparations.

They are also building partnership teams of individuals and churches who will join them in the vision of seeing communities develop their own ways of CAM AND KATH and their children, Jack, Matilda BEN AND SAM with their daughters following Jesus. They are excited to share what God is doing among the least- Od Od and Sydney, have been living in Mozambique Elizabeth and Anna are serving the Yao in reached people in Thailand and Mozambique. since April 2012 working with the Yao. Mozambique. SCOTT AND BEK, along with their three children Levi, Josiah and Katelyn live in If you would like to know more about either the Blacks or Sally’s future plans a rural village in Mozambique. Developing a deep understanding of language We’ve had a great time on home assignment Our family is coming to the end of our or join their partnership teams, they would love to get in touch. Contact Global and culture, building relationships and sharing God’s love are the cornerstones visiting friends, family and some of our partner churches and small groups. fi rst three year term, made slightly Interaction’s WA State offi ce or visit the website for more information. that Scott and Bek hope to build on for many years as they live and serve While it’s been a bit hectic we’ve loved just about every minute of it! shorter than planned so we can be in Australia for the birth of our third child among the Yao. in May. We spent the fi rst 14 months in Malawi learning the language and When we return to Mozambique we will move to a diff erent village, Massangulo. understanding more about the culture while waiting for Visas for entry into As I (Bek) prepared lunch one day a familiar voice was heard calling out ‘odi odi’ A huge thanks to all of you who have helped fi nance the building project – the Mozambique (ask us about the miraculous story during our Home Assignment). in the front yard, the local alternative to knocking on the door. As I went outside house is nearly complete! In addition to being an incredibly beautiful part of We’ve been living in Mozambique now for over a year. Most of our time here to greet our visitor I was delighted to see my Yao friend Larni, a woman I have Mozambique and already home to teammates Scott and Bek, it’s right in the has been focused on learning Portuguese (the trade language, used alongside known well for eight years. She is on a journey of faith, believes in Christ and is heart of where rural Yao people live. Our focus will be make some new friends, Ciyao) helping with administrative tasks that keep the team functioning and grappling with how her faith is expressed in her community. Larni is growing in continue with language learning of Chiyao and start to explore ways to share schooling our two girls. It has certainly been challenging. We are excited that her understanding of God and reliance on Him. I have seen God’s healing power about God’s love within this community. We are looking for a few more people to understanding Yao language and culture means that deep, Gospel-centred in her family and spent many hours sharing Bible stories, talking through issues join our partnership team so that we can get our fl ights booked and leave ASAP! relationships with our Yao friends can soon become a reality. and praying with her. We have grieved, laughed and learned together.

This particular day Larni was upset and wanted to talk. For the past week she had been having disturbing dreams that her mother, who had passed away a number of years earlier, was visiting her and trying to speak with her. Larni wanted advice as to what she should do. Due to a cultural belief that the dead JONNO AND HEATHER, along with their kids Sam, Caleb, Hannah, Micah and Josiah have LUCY served in Central Asia for 16 years in various teaching capacities and developed appear to people who have failed to put them to rest properly, Larni’s family was pressuring her to consult traditional healers about performing rituals at her been serving in Mozambique amongst the Yao people since 2002. They are passionate relationships with young people. As well as watching them mature from teenagers to mother’s grave. As a follower of Jesus she wasn’t keen on performing the rituals about doing life with the Yao people and see them grow in their relationship with Jesus. adults, she has had the joy of seeing some of them commit to following Jesus. This is at times a daunting task and not possible without prayer and the power of God. yet she still desired the dreams to cease and also appease her family. We talked God determined that after 16 years of serving in Central Asia, teaching English, about how she felt about it and I shared some Bible passages with her. It was It was the evening of the 23rd of December, just 2 days before Christmas. Ten men, ministering to students, their families, local colleagues, team members, whomever so encouraging that Larni asked us to pray with her for God to intervene. She each armed with an AK47, dismounted from a truck and surrounded our house. This would normally be cause for concern but not He brought alongside to share the journey, would fi nish this year. resolved to pray nightly before going to sleep that God would be present with on this occasion. The men were the advance security detail for the Governor of our province. They formed a cordon around our her and in her dreams. She told her family that she would pray to God to bring My fi nal months deepened many of the friendships with my students, colleagues and team members. Packing up and being house whilst the Governor, his wife and son had dinner with our family! peace and He did. able to give away some of my things brought wonderful closure. Affi rmations from supporters and faithful prayer partners undergirded the steps as the time to leave drew nearer. Our role here is to walk alongside people like Larni, encouraging them, We had invited him as a gesture of thanks for his help in the Visa processes that allow the Global Interaction team to continue to serve here. We had been ready to accept the devastating outcome that we’d need to leave the country because we refused to pay equipping them with the Word and empowering them to make decisions about Sharing God’s Christmas hope, joy, peace and love with six groups in my home was incredible, however I heard His voice still bribes and engage in the corruption of a high level offi cial. But at the very last minute God showed us his favour and intervened, how to follow God in their communities. Our heart is to see communities calling, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen.” of faith rise up that can encourage one another and grapple with the through the help of the Governor. Now, the Global Interaction team enjoys a good reputation which had become so tarnished implications of following God together. through the accusations of the corrupt offi cial. There are many precious people who need acceptance and reconciliation through Jesus. Could you consider joining the team in Central Asia? I know a group of wonderful people who would welcome you into their lives. Scott and Bek would love to share their story with you, your home group or your We are so incredibly grateful for the support of all those in WA who prayed for our situation. We have no doubt that without you, church. Contact the WA offi ce for more info. we would not be in Mozambique today. Thank you!! Lucy is available to share her story with churches, home groups and individuals in WA. Contact the offi ce for more info.

to mission that is both local and global. Global Interaction partners with Australian Baptists to equip, CONTACT COLIN OR PAM at your state oﬃ ce and get involved in State Director: Colin Meadows Jesu a hurc 21 Rowe Ave, Rivervale WA 6103 encourage, mobilise and enable churches to participate in ground-breaking and eﬀ ective global mission. And experience shows that what God’s exciting mission. There is a place for you! P PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 we learn in our shared global experience can inspire and transform a church’s mission in our local Australian settings too. T 08 6313 6300 E [email protected] www.globalinteraction.org.au feature 9

FEBRUARY 2016

FEBRUARY 2016 Ecotourism engagement

Jill Birt

Visitors to south-east Asia can play a significant role connecting with unreached people groups.

Wild Asia offers escorted “Technology and economic homestays in rural regions progress are powerful where participants can influences on culture.” choose adventure activities “Languages are including rock climbing, disappearing at an incredible white water rafting, hiking rate as technology blurs and snorkelling or the option boundaries and languages of a cultural experience to used by small communities explore farming rice, coffee are consumed by more widely and spices; basket weaving; used languages,” Joe said. and a ‘taster’ course in learning local language. Joe, an expat who leads the business, partners with Technology local workers who are keen to Photo: Joshua Kegg engage communities within and economic Expats in south-east Asia partner with local workers to connect with unreached people groups. the area where the unreached people group lives. progress are and there is little interest are highly motivated to see then escorted to the region “When tour groups come, powerful among the younger people to their culture, including their where they are immersed in we get to travel with them learn the skills. With people language, remain vital,” local culture through a variety into villages and our partners influences on from outside the community Joe said. of activities. have opportunities to share coming to learn about culture, The business continues “We enjoy learning from about Jesus,” Joe said. culture. there is strong motivation to to develop and is open for our guests as well as helping This business has many reignite passion for the group’s groups from Australia. The them learn about the local benefits for the local people. unique culture. optimum size is six to eight situation,” local worker Their culture is valued and Skills including unique “We really want to honour people and moderate physical Ruby said. honoured through being dance, writing, weaving and the local culture and do all fitness is required. “We help the teams with shared with tourists in a cooking continue to disappear we can, in partnership with Tour groups are met at language and prepare them for sustainable and engaging way. as older generations pass local community leaders who the country’s capital city what to expect in the village.” international briefs

Ship brings hope 30,000 Christians became Drought and the Pacific New Life newspaper reports internally displaced persons Operation Mobilisation’s (IDPs) in IDP camps in their (OM) ship Logos Hope sailed own country relying on Samara Linehan to Myanmar in November churches, cultural associations 2015. More than 102,000 and civil society groups to people visited the ship and provide for their needs. Camps The powerful El Niño 124,195 books were purchased, have not been provided by period continues to including 30,000 Bibles and the government. Researchers worsen, causing drought other Christian literature. More estimate the reported figures of than 6,000 attended programs violence and destruction may and undermining food onboard. One of these was only cover 50 percent of events. security in the Pacific a special event for around and Sub-Saharan Africa. 100 monks and nuns from a Christianity in the Buddhist school who were Middle East While Baptist World Aid invited onboard to learn more Reliable reports suggest Australia’s Kenyan partners have about the purpose of the vessel more Muslims have become community drought mitigation and meet the crew and staff. followers of Jesus in the last projects in place, communities Logos Hope also sent out teams two decades than in Islam’s in the Pacific are unprepared as to visited orphanages and child combined 1,500 year history. they have not, historically, had as care centres for abandoned In spite of great difficulty much need to conserve water. children in rural villages. OM and turmoil, Christianity is In the high hinterlands of Ships International provide unquestionably expanding Papua New Guinea (PNG), severe educational and Christian throughout the Islamic world. instances of frost have destroyed

literature in ports around Joel Rosenberg, an evangelical food gardens. With the normally Photo: Baptist Union Papua New Guinea the world. researcher, author and resident plentiful water resources greatly Locals in the Pacific region are suffering due to the El Niño effect. of Israel has documented the diminished, attempts to replant Nigeria troubles recent upsurge of Christianity the gardens have been futile, World Watch Monitor reported in the Middle East. “In Sudan leaving entire communities associate, there is high potential mitigate the effects of drought. Taraba State in the Middle it is estimated one million without food. Already, deaths for conflict. Currently, two to three million Belt of Nigeria experienced have turned to Christ since have been reported in PNG One of the biggest challenges people across the Pacific are significant atrocities by the year 2000, not in spite as drought gives way to poor for PNG is the country’s affected by El Niño. Hausa-Fulami Muslim of persecution, war and sanitation and disease. geographical hostility. The Baptist World Aid Australia herdsmen against indigenous genocide, but because of them”, Over the next few months most affected areas are hardest is taking proactive action to Christian farmers. Between Rosenberg said. In Egypt, Iran, it is expected that there will be to reach. Subsistence lifestyle help communities prepare for December 2013 and July Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and a spike in forced migration as communities exist in isolation. worsening drought throughout 2015, 1,484 Christians were Algeria there are reports of whole communities relocate to The rugged terrain makes relief the region. killed and 2,388 were injured. significant numbers of people areas which still have water and efforts very difficult. Many churches, houses and turning to Jesus. food. In PNG, as families put The El Niño threatens to For more information, visit businesses of Christians have themselves at the mercy of tribes wreak havoc in the Pacific, where baptistworldaid.org.au/ been destroyed. More than with whom they do not normally countries are not as prepared to disaster-action news 11

FEBRUARY 2016 From Rivo to rural Thailand

Jill Birt

Glenn and Liz Black and their three young sons are heading to Thailand to work with Global Interaction’s team with ethnic Thai in north-eastern Thailand, but they cannot leave Australia until their support team is complete.

“We’re really excited about “I’m looking forward to moving to Thailand. It’s captured discovering the people God is our hearts,” Glenn said. preparing to become our friends.” With their sons, Sebastian (5), The excitement of a new Levi (3) and Oliver (9 months), beginning is tempered with the Glenn and Liz are living in understanding that this task is Perth’s southern suburbs as they not just a change of location, complete some study at Vose culture and language, but it is a Seminary and begin building spiritual battle. their team of supporters. Glenn

Photo: Luke Patterson continues working as an engineer Glenn and Liz Black and their sons Sebastian, Levi and Oliver are planning to leave for Thailand in early 2017. as well as studying. “It’s a bit daunting when you look at the big picture and what we need to do,” Liz said. We’ve visited Both Glenn and Liz grew up in country WA and feel a strong Thailand and feel GlobalChurch online affinity to country people. Glenn left Albany to study engineering a strong affinity at Curtin University. Liz left the with the people. idyllic Yallingup region to study nursing in Perth. They married eight years ago and are part of Riverton Baptist Community Church alongside several members of Liz’s family. “We know we need a strong “We visited Liz’s sister, team of people who will faithfully Kath Beeck and her family in pray for us,” Liz said. Mozambique where they’re Building a team of financial working with Global Interaction and prayer supporters will with the Yawo people.” take months. The Blacks are “God confirmed in us that keen to connect with churches helping people develop their own across Western Australia that culturally distinctive ways of are interested in getting to worshipping Jesus is the way to know them and their plans go,” Glenn said. for Thailand. “We already sensed that God “We’re new at this and we was leading us to Thailand, so keep getting amazed as God working with Global Interaction moves people to partner with us among the ethnic Thai was the – we’re humbled,” Glenn said. best fit for us,” he said. “We’ve visited Thailand and For more information or to

Photo: Maria Berrian Maria Photo: feel a strong affinity with the support Glenn and Liz, email Dr Graham Hill has travelled the globe interviewing church leaders for the GlobalChurch Project. people,” Liz said. [email protected].

Jill Birt with church leaders from the Middle East, Eastern Europe, First Nations KIDS HOPE AUS: One-to-One Mentoring and indigenous communities. GlobalChurch Project “I’m convinced that the Western founder, Dr Graham world has much to learn from these KIDS HOPE AUS is a life changing program that provides Churches with an opportunity to impact Hill, has travelled the stories,” Graham said. and serve their local community through a partnership with a local Primary School. The GlobalChurch Project has After comprehensive training, the Church deploys passionate, screened and trained mentors world to meet and partnered with Micah Network into the school to provide onetoone mentoring to children in need for one hour per week. interview hundreds of and Missio Alliance on the project. leaders of non-Western These groups are committed to churches that have helping people worldwide hear the voices of non-Western, indigenous Tim Smith, the KIDS HOPE AUS Program Development Associate for Victoria, Tasmania, South th th seen extraordinary and immigrant Christians. Australia and Western Australia, will be in Perth on 10 –12 February and is available for and sustained growth Dr Graham Hill is an educator Information and Training meetings North and South of the River. for decades. and theologian who is passionate about helping effective non-Western As a result of his extensive Christian leaders tell their stories. For more information contact Grant Hendry, North Beach Baptist Church P: 9448 7018 or Chris Ellery P: 0400 265 938 globetrotting, the GlobalChurch He is the author of GlobalChurch: Project website went live on Reshaping Our Conversations, 1 January 2016. Renewing Our Mission, Revitalizing Leaders from Africa, Asia, Our Churches. Latin America, Oceania and the Caribbean feature in video To view the new website, visit interviews on the website along www.TheGlobalChurchProject.com 12 in conversation

FEBRUARY 2016 Developing resilience

a major theme of the Sermon was resilience. Sheridan Voysey is a writer, speaker, and How do you think the Sermon broadcaster on faith on the Mount address the topic of resilience? and spirituality. The resilience theme of the Sermon is revealed right at the end Sheridan’s books include when Jesus gives his famous story Resilient: Your invitation to a of the two builders. One builds Jesus-shaped life, Resurrection his house on a strong foundation, Year: Turning broken dreams into the other on sand, and when the new beginnings (shortlisted for rain comes in torrents and the the 2014 Evangelical Christian floodwaters rise and the winds Publishers Association Christian beat against their houses, the first Book of the Year), Unseen house stands while the second Footprints: Encountering the collapses. Jesus interprets the divine along the journey of life parable by saying those who put (2006 Australian Christian Book His teaching into practice will be

of the Year), and the three-volume like the first builder and withstand Photo: Blake Wisz series Open House: Sheridan life’s storms. They will bounce Sheridan Voysey’s dream is to help build resilience with the help of the Sermon on the Mount. Voysey in conversation. back and not collapse. They will be resilient. tells the crowd they are the ‘salt resources. It’s a good time to with forgiveness, commitment, You have a new book out called of the earth’ and the ‘light of the discover there is One standing truth and love, and that there is a Resilient. Is this the follow up to How does Jesus’ teaching help world’ [Matthew 5:13-14]. This is ready and waiting to empower bigger purpose to life than merely Resurrection Year? us develop resilience? astounding considering the people us with His emotional strength, surviving or accumulating lots of No – that book is still to come, It is fascinating to compare He was addressing were small, help us forgive where it’s needed toys, they’ll develop resilience to and Resilient is a devotional Jesus’ Sermon with the discoveries insignificant villagers. Through and find hope for the future. The weather the storms that inevitably book rather than a memoir, but of modern psychology. According His Sermon, Jesus positions loss of home, farm and business come in adulthood. the theme is apt. I haven’t met to researchers like Martin us to be people of profound can batter that sense of hope, a Resurrection Year reader yet who Seligman, resilience is built on accomplishment, no matter as well our sense of identity. But Do you think resilience can be hasn’t wanted to develop resilience. a few key factors, all of which how small we are in the eyes of God can recycle even this into absorbed as a cultural value? Jesus addresses: the world. something good. If so, how? Who is Resilient written for? 1. Positive emotions – learning 4. A sense of meaning to life I do. How did fairness, Specifically for millennials, to amplify positive feelings like – that we have a purpose to live How can followers of Jesus in mateship, and other Australian but adults of every age are telling gratitude, hope and love, and for, a grand cause to serve. We are these affected communities values become ingrained in our me they love it. A six session video navigate negative ones like strongest when we connect to demonstrate resilience? culture? By people discovering series will be released soon, and a bitterness, sadness and anger. It something greater than ourselves, By living out their calling those values, living them out, free study guide has been written doesn’t take much to see this factor and when we pray the words to be ‘salt and light’ in their modelling and teaching them to equip small groups to explore present in Jesus’ Sermon. Jesus in Jesus’ Sermon, ‘May your communities, which includes to the next generation, and the book together. declares us to be the ‘blessed’ ones kingdom come soon, may your any practical acts of service like reflecting them in songs, artworks who are loved by God, comforted will be done on earth, as it is in rehousing those affected, helping and stories. But the key point is Why the subject of resilience? in sadness, and given hope for heaven.’ [Matthew 6:10], we are to clean up streets and rebuild that such values mustn’t just be Resilience has become a the future [Matthew 5:1-12]. He connecting to such a cause: the homes, encouraging frontline talked about but put into practice. big thing in recent years, with prescribes forgiveness to counter Kingdom of God. forces like the fire brigade and Imagine the impact a generation researchers beginning to explore bitterness [Matthew 6:12, 14-15], All the factors for developing police, and lending a listening of Australian Christians modelling the factors that lead people and provides concrete guidance resilience are contained in the ear to those who feel their future Jesus-shaped resilience to bounce back after life’s physical, on what to do when we are angry Sermon on the Mount. Jesus is now very dark. A pastor friend could have! emotional or spiritual storms. [Matthew 5:21-26]. Perhaps Jesus’ beat the psychologists to of mine has recently seen his After moving to England in most practical teaching about their discoveries by a couple role as being a chaplain to his What is your dream for Resilient? 2011, following my own battering emotions is on worry, something of millennia. street. That would be a great way That Resilient would catalyse storms as told in Resurrection most us of battle [Matthew 6:25-34]. to demonstrate Jesus-shaped a movement of individuals and Year, I began exploring resilience 2. Strong relationships – Western Australia has resilience right now, and help build small groups delving deep into the too. But instead of learning about having good marriages, deep faced some devastating it in others. Sermon on the Mount and being it from the psychological literature, friendships and meaningful bushfires this summer that transformed by the experience. I found it in a surprising place – connections to our community. have destroyed homes and How can families nurture the Sermon on the Mount. Notice how much time Jesus farming properties and taken resilient responses in their I had read Jesus’ Sermon devotes to relationships in the several lives. How would you children and grandchildren? plenty of times before of course, Sermon on the Mount. In one expect to see resilience in I’m not a parent, but it seems but normally briskly. While it lengthy sweep he tackles the four these communities? to me the call to intentionally raise contains much reassurance – main forces that destroy them Whenever disasters like this our children in the faith ‘when like how the grieving will be – anger, unfaithfulness, false strike we see Australian mateship you are at home and when you are comforted, the poor blessed, and promises and retaliation [Matthew at its best, with communities on the road, when you are going all of us provisioned by God’s care 5:21–42]. Because relationships are rallying together to get through to bed and when you are getting – for the most part the Sermon is at the heart of life with God, they the crisis and the public in general up’ [Deuteronomy 6:7] includes challenging, demanding, radical. take centre place in Jesus’ Sermon. cheering on their support. We’ve helping them think through a It was easy to breeze past the hard 3. A sense of accomplishment seen that during these fires. Events Jesus-shaped response to such parts when the easy ones lay just – whether through pursuing a like this expose any weaknesses events in an age-appropriate ahead! Then one day I tried an goal, mastering a skill, or doing present in our systems to combat way. The Sermon on the Mount experiment: I decided to read the work that is personally significant. these natural disasters too. If we is again a key resource here. As Sermon every day for a month. While Jesus never tells us to find address those well we develop they discover they are the ‘blessed’ All of it, not just the easy bits. a hobby, or set ourselves career greater resilience for the future. ones, are called to be ‘salt and To download a free ebook The experiment stretched to goals to achieve, I think he sets But crises like this are hard, light’ to their friends, are trained based on Resilient, visit three months as the Sermon took us up for accomplishment of a can stretch us beyond the limit, to combat anger, unfaithfulness, www.sheridanvoysey.com/ hold of me. It was then I realised higher order. In the Sermon he and bring us to the end of our false promises and retaliation fivepractices leadership 13

FEBRUARY 2016 Six things pastors need from younger adults

Dave Kraft

Pastors are under attack today in every denomination and in every country. They are attacked from within their own churches by disgruntled attendees, within their own spirits by our enemy the devil, and externally by those who don’t even attend or aren’t members of the churches pastors have the privilege and responsibility to lead.

It’s no wonder so many pastors • Pray they would be able to are often discouraged, exhausted, strike a good balance between frustrated, and in their minds (if their ministry, family and not in actuality) have tendered their personal life. resignations. Pastors move from church to church or from church to 2. Encourage your pastor another line of work at an alarming Lots of people will criticise rate. Some of this could be greatly and find fault. They will both reduced if they received more email them and talk to them (and affirmation and encouragement about them) in discouraging from those they lead, especially ways. You can be one of those those who are younger. who look for ways, and reasons, I am well beyond the teens and to encourage them – to camp on 20s [I was 76 in December 2015] but the positive, not the negative. in over 45 years of ministry I have Tell them what you appreciate worked with lots of young people. about their ministry, and be Many young adults hang back and specific. What have they recently stay on the fringes of church, afraid done or said that you have or reluctant to commit themselves. profited from? After they preach/ But as you deliberately support teach, go out of your way to tell and encourage your pastor, you them how it has blessed you. will identify yourself as someone A pastor’s teaching/preaching who is on board and positive, and help many, but few tell them Let them do this with joy and not you their story, how God saved Most pastors want to hear potentially someone whom your specifically how they have been a with groaning, for that would them, called them into ministry from people who have issues pastor can begin to invest in. help and blessing. be of no advantage to you.’ and is currently leading them. or questions with something at Today’s pastors need to focus Every once in a while, write [Hebrews 13:17] I can guarantee you that they will the church. Most would relish on developing the next generation a personal note telling them By being a regular attender/ appreciate this and be a better the opportunity to genuinely of leaders in their respective you are praying for them and member at your church, you are leader as a result of your initiative. hear what is bothering you churches because young adults are appreciate something they have placing yourself in a position and to have the chance to both the future of the church. said or done. Once again, be to be taught, shepherded, led, 5. Ask how you can serve your genuinely listen and share It is, therefore, incumbent on specific. For example, “When and discipled by your church’s pastor/your church concerning your issue so the young adults to especially be aware you said in a recent sermon that pastor(s) and other leaders. It is an Are you currently serving at two of you can have mutual of how they can help, support and Jesus totally understands me and awesome step to accept God’s call your church? If you are serving, are understanding and respect for encourage their pastor(s). Here are deeply loves me, that ministered to be a pastor and to take seriously you able to step it up a notch? Give each other. some of my ideas on how you can to me because I am going the roles and responsibilities that more time or volunteer somewhere Talking about others rather stand behind and alongside of the through a difficult time right now such a call entails. You should be else where needed? than talking to others is gossip, pastor God has allowed to lead the and feeling lonely, and that is able to trust, believe in, and submit I have never been in a church pure and simple, and it never church you call home: exactly what I needed to hear.” to those the Lord has placed in that had all the servants and makes things better, only worse. authority over you. If you can’t leaders it needed and wanted. The book of Proverbs is loaded 1. Pray for your pastor 3. Submit to your do this, you need to address this One of the best ways to grow with words of warning about Undoubtedly, the most pastor’s leadership issue, and in extreme cases, leave personally, and at the same time gossip. Here are a few for starters: important thing you can do to The Bible is clear on the topic if you can no longer respect and help your church grow, is to find Proverbs 11:13, 17:9, 18:8, 20:19. help your pastor be fruitful and of being willing to submit to trust the leadership over you; a place where your gifts, capacity There are a lot of other things effective in their role is to pray for the authority in the church you more on this in point six. and interests can make a unique that could be said, but I will stop them. You can use passages such have chosen to be a part of. (I am contribution to what Jesus wants with these six. Let me say it as Ephesians 1:15-23, Ephesians not suggesting, nor does the 4. Get to know your pastor to do through you and through again, “Your pastor needs you!” 3:14-20 and Colossians 1:9-12 Bible suggest, that you submit to A pastor, at times, has a your church. If you are not serving Most pastors want to to pray for your pastor(s) and ungodly or abusive leaders.) Here lonely job. Many people instead in some capacity, please do so, be relevant to the younger other leaders. are two such passages talking of giving wind up taking from leaving the ranks of the consumers generation and know that they • Pray for them daily. about submitting, respecting and the pastor – taking their time, and joining the ranks of the can positively influence them • Pray the Lord will give them following your leaders. energy, resources, wisdom and contributors. for the Kingdom. They need wisdom in their various ‘We ask you, brothers, to counsel. It is refreshing and your support, prayers, honest responsibilities in the church respect those who labor among encouraging to know that people 6. Talk honestly to, not about feedback and involvement to they serve. you and are over you in the in the church family really care your pastor do this well. As you do this, you • Pray for his role or her role as Lord and admonish you, and about them, pray for them, and If there is something that will experience more joy and both husband/wife and father/ to esteem them very highly in really want to get to know them, you honestly have a problem personal growth in your walk mother (if they are married love because of their work. Be not so they can take, but so that with – some decision they made, with Jesus, your pastor will be and have children). at peace among yourselves.’ they can give. something they wrote or said that more motivated and become • Pray the Lord will protect them [1 Thessalonians 5:12‑13] Why not call the church you disagree with — please talk to a better leader, and Jesus will in the area of sexual purity. ‘Obey your leaders and submit office to schedule some time them, not about them. be honoured. • Pray they will experience to them, for they are keeping with your pastor and offer to take This is one of the big sins in courage and anointing in their watch over your souls, as those them to lunch at their favourite the body of Christ. We talk about Used with permission from preaching/teaching. who will have to give an account. restaurant? Ask them to tell people, but not to people. Dave Kraft, www.davekraft.org 14 news

FEBRUARY 2016 Jade Diary sings her story

98five Music Director Chela Williams

Home grown singer-songwriter Jade Diary released her new single ‘Jordan’ and will follow this up with a top-secret project. The voice behind ‘A Thousand Days’, ‘Cold Hearted’ and ‘World in Your Hands’ admits storytelling comes naturally to the artist.

“I love using allegory and know the full reality of it until metaphor in my music,” I walked and experienced the she explains. truth for myself.” “I believe one of the greatest Though sharing her storytellers of all time is Jesus.” experiences and life journey “He used parables and through ethereal, storytelling stories to subvert and enter synth pop may seem like people’s hearts in a powerful a profound task Jade also way. The stories always got past confesses to approaching her their defences.” artistry with aplomb. “There’s too much ugliness in the world so I believe my purpose ultimately is to add to the beauty,” she said. “But I don’t believe in taking my music too seriously, it’s not I believe one rocket science! It can’t save of the greatest the world.” “Music is in my DNA and storytellers of all even if no one was listening, I would still sing and create time is Jesus. musical stories.” Expect to hear more from

Jade Diary as she releases her Photo: Caitlin Worthington next project which promises Immediately following her recent release, Jade Diary has a new project underway. to challenge the sophomore album concept. “As an artist, I believe my job is “Can’t say too much, except to do the same.” it will involve new songs, Jade reveals her new single storytelling, different mediums ‘Jordan’, a bright, 80s inspired and will be a big project!” Kalgoorlie’s creative flair pop track was written during a You can currently hear difficult time in her life but yet ‘Jordan’ on 98five Sonshine FM. experiencing God’s strength and nearness. “It’s about feeling like you can’t go on anymore because you feel so overwhelmed and hurt, but finding out that God hasn’t left me alone,” she said. “It’s easy to read that He won’t ever abandon you, but I didn’t

Editor: Terry Hicks EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING: Managing Editor: Andrew Sculthorpe Email: [email protected] Subeditor: Maclain Bruce [email protected] Production: Vanessa Klomp Mail: Baptist Churches Creative: Hayley Emmett Western Australia Catherine Bartlett PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100

Advertising: Sally Phu Tel: (08) 6313 6300 Photo: Eliot Vlatko Distribution: Sally Phu Fax: (08) 9470 1713 Some Kalgoorlie Baptist Church members recorded their musical talents for their local carols event. Editorial deadline: 5th of each month

Jill Birt us in the constantly changing PUBLISHERS GENERAL DISCLAIMER All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by culture of the Goldfields.” way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the Eliot’s leadership and correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person who obtains this publication should act on the basis of any matter, comment or advice The creative juices are running deep and wide talent is proving to be a contained in this publication without first considering and if necessary taking appropriate around Kalgoorlie Baptist Church. Several people catalyst for the musicians in professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their the church. He collaborated own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the from the church wrote songs for ‘Unwrapping Hope’, authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any with Dr Sean George on party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. the community Carols by Candlelight event held at another song and Sonja The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia Centennial Park in 2015. Vermaak composed the by imageseven. Tel: (08) 9221 9777 Email: [email protected] catchy reggae song ‘This Hope’ for the carols event. Radio station ABC Goldfields “It’s always exciting to have Church member Helen recorded Pastor Eliot Vlatko your music recorded then played Kenny developed the program singing his song ‘21st Century on the radio,” Eliot said. as well as coordinating the Joy’ for a radio interview in “I really believe the message of event. Almost 5,000 people

imageseven bcw J2298 bcw imageseven early December. hope is profound and relevant to attended ‘Unwrapping Hope’. intermission 15

FEBRUARY 2016

Find the couples listed below in the diagram. The words appear horizontally, Unscramble the words below found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 in the Bible. vertically, diagonally and backwards. 1. ILGHETD 5. OLEV

C E N P S R R P F 2. EOSPH 6. ETSHRO P D P R J S S F Y A Z C P S V A M A D A P P D D 3. NKID 7. ASSP V N V C E F B S Y Y B B D Z R N I C B C J C Y E M C P C Z A Z Y B R 4. WOELKDGNE 8. NTIPTAE D J Z V Y Z I N V B N Z A F R C A J S S C A A S I S S B N C E J Y D E F C P A I A S I M C B C N Y B E M V F 9. EEESSERRPV P V F I M V C N A C M M E J Y Z R R M A F A A S J S A B E M D I B C I J F 10. TPOSTRCE M I B E E R P A B C R M D R V F N A F F N J Y F I N A R Y F A I Y Z B E A C F C A 11. ESROJEIC V B Y P C C E P F S A V Y R B R A S A P S F E S Y A N Z Z V M Z S Y R M S S J 12. LSTLIDE I S B A M N R I E I P S C P B S B F R I A E V E M R F R A C 13. HTTUR D A P S J I S A E I Z A B E Z R P E M M B R A A 14. SRUSTT D V C D E F A Z J R E E Z V I Y A Y S M F Y I R B Z M Answers will be published in next V J A S C S R S E D D month’s issue of The Advocate. A F Y F S F R Z Abraham D B I V R I M M Jacob Adam R N Y B Joseph Answers for the Where would you find who? in the January 2016 issue Aquila P V N J A Mary Esther Mordecai of The Advocate. Bathsheba R Priscilla Psalms David Boaz F D I Rachel Genesis Adam and Eve Proverbs Solomon David Rebekah Exodus Moses Daniel Darius Delilah Ruth Joshua Rahab Mark Jesus Elizabeth Samson Judges Samson Acts Paul Eve Sarah Ruth Boaz 3 John Gaius Isaac Zechariah Ezra Cyrus Revelation John

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This voucher Eve Being Still with God Brave New World entitles you Paul Young Henry and Richard Blackaby Amanda Cook Paul Young, once again, has produced In the busyness of life today it is difficult Amanda Cook from Bethel has brought to 15% off a work that is both entertaining and but extremely important to take time to be a relaxing and worshipful album to thought-provoking in Eve. I loved his first still with God. God reminded the Psalmist bring listeners into the presence of God. your next book, The Shack, and the way it challenged in Psalm 46 of just that: ‘Be still, and know Starting with the beautiful instrumental my traditional views about the nature of that I am God.’ He is our life source and introduction to ‘Heroes’ Amanda takes God, and Eve has a very similar feel to it. sustainer and in Being Still with God listeners on a journey with her unique purchase A young girl is washed up, hidden in a the Blackabys remind us of that daily by voice to lay down all that is worldly at shipping container, on a shore somewhere expounding a scripture and applying it the feet of Jesus. Another favourite is in store between this world and the next. ‘John the practically to our everyday lives. Some ‘Shepherd’ which reminds us of the Collector’ finds her and with the assistance devotionals do not follow on from one immensity of God’s love for all His people at Mount of healers and scholars, helps her recover day to the next, but this devotional has and how He looks after us, watching over from her injuries and fulfill her mysterious runs that go through sections of Bible us always. This album inspires listeners to Lawley but vital role of ‘Witness’. Follow ‘Lilly’ on books to bring context to what the reader find hope in all that Jesus is and all He does her journey of self-discovery and healing, is learning and I really enjoyed that. Take for us in everyday life. If you love Bethel both on a personal level and for the sake of the journey into a deeper relationship this is a must add to your collection. all humanity. Eve provides a very unique with Jesus, guided by the Blackabys, and The Advocate – February 2016 account of creation and the subsequent fall reap the rewards that come with a closer of man. relationship with God.

Reviews by Koorong Mount Lawley Website: www.koorong.com Assistant Manager Address: 434 Lord Street, Mount Lawley Dorothy Waddingham Phone: 08 9427 9777 16 news

FEBRUARY 2016 Adelaide hosts annual carnival Photo: David Ruwoldt The Western Australian team that competed in the Australian Baptist Basketball Carnival in Adelaide, mid January.

The annual Australian Baptist Basketball Carnival was held in Adelaide from 9 to 16 January and saw Wellings heads to Rio teams from around Australia compete in the unique event. Western Australia had seven teams in the Carnival, with five making their division grand final, with Men’s A, B2, and Women’s A winning their respective championships.

Women’s A grade player Tia From the moment we wake Ucich shares her perspective on up and meet for ‘team time’ (a the Carnival. meeting led by our chaplain) Slam-dunk! Three pointers, to the first set of games where game winning shots – now that’s a bunch of dads whose game basketball. But what is it that has long past them, are proving separates the annual Australian their experience on the court Baptist Basketball Carnival still counts for something. from a standard competitive It’s now midway through basketball tournament? the day where all states The beauty of the Carnival come together and guest is that it’s not made great by speakers share devotions that individual people, but by the leave us in discussion with

strength of so many individuals those around us. Then there Photo: Getty Images coming together to form the are more games, filled with Eloise Wellings is honoured to be a part of the 2016 Rio Olympics athletics team for Australia. community that is the Australian an array of different skill Baptist Basketball Carnival. levels ranging from a group of Jill Birt “I’m just a woman who A carnival to me is a young girls versing their mums, really likes what I do, who commitment to pouring yourself to Women’s National Basketball learned from mistakes, into everything this special League squad members Eloise Wellings is one of the first track and field refused to lie down when it annual event has to offer. A time competing in the top level athletes selected to represent Australia at the 2016 got tough, refused to let fear to grow existing friendships and competition. Lastly, the day Olympic Games in August. Eloise will have the of failure get in the way of a create new ones, a time for ends with a shared prayer dream and not be afraid to showing all opposing states and a light supper between all honour of competing in both the 5,000 and 10,000 fail again. Anyone can do our lung capacities. A time to in our community. metres events inside the Olympic Stadium in Rio. that. Never lie down, never feel freedom in exploring life, As I am writing this, it give up,” Eloise shared. purpose and faith at whatever is grand final day and the Currently in an altitude Facebook page, giving insight Along with the qualifying level you choose. And a time atmosphere in this building is training camp at Falls Creek to the inner struggles of an elite event, she recently ran a to enjoy an unforgettable as electrifying and passionate as in the Victorian Alps, Eloise runner with humility and grace, personal best breaking week of hoops, whether you it is every year. But it’s now that is bursting with confidence exposing her Christian faith. 70 minutes at the Sanyo are a player, coach, spectator, time when the final buzzer and hope. The inspiring 33 “I don’t think I’m a Women’s Half Marathon official, cheerleader or volunteer. must sound on yet another year old mother of one openly special person for making in Okayama, Japan on At the Carnival I find myself unique Australian Baptist shares her journey through her the Olympics.” 23 December 2015. in a state of full engagement. Basketball Championship.