WA’S BAPTIST NEWSPAPER theadvocate.tv OCTOBER 2020

IN CONVERSATION Associate Pastor at Lesmurdie “… one biblical teaching could benefit everyone: the Baptist Church, Josh Thomas talks about pastoring secret of contentment, a state that rises above personal through the COVID-19 season. PAGE 12 >> circumstances.” BARNEY ZWARTZ PAGE 13 >>

4 Happier campers New facilities installed at Busselton Camping Centre during COVID-19 >>

7 Translation record The Bible has been translated into its 700th language >> Photo: Copyright: MERATH Copyright: Photo: Some of the damage from the deadly explosion that rocked Beirut on 4 August 2020, causing extensive injuries to locals.

Response to Beirut crisis 14 Singer’s big gig Perth local, Chelsea Cullen voices the songs in On 4 August, a large explosion devastated the Port thousands left homeless by the local partners to collaborate Helen Reddy movie >> of Beirut killing more than 200 people, injuring blast, Baptist World Aid CEO, John with to bring direct assistance to over 6,000 and displacing around 300,000 people Hickey said needs will remain people suffering in Lebanon,” urgent for some time. Mr Hickey said. including 80,000 children. “We are very conscious that Despite the unprecedented this huge disaster will have a challenges facing Lebanon and Baptist World Aid Australia “But again, over all this, we massive knock-on effect on the his team, Mr Costa shared these Committed to is responding through its were surprised by this explosion.” people of Lebanon … particularly faith-filled words: “I feel now, Christian partner on the ground, Baptist World Aid’s response the most vulnerable, including we are as if on a ship, caught by being honest, Middle East Revive and Thrive so far has included the provision refugee groups,” Mr Hickey said. a storm. I don’t know how, I don’t (MERATH), which despite of relief in the immediate “The health system is now know when, but I trust that the transparent and reporting some property damage wake of the disaster, including in a critical state, food supplies Lord will lead us to land on a and distress, remains safe in the emergency food, water and are badly impacted, essential safe shore.” above reproach. wake of the explosion. shelter for families who are now infrastructure is destroyed or “Meanwhile, during this “Until this, we thought facing homelessness, along badly damaged – meaning difficult trip, we are burdened. we had been through it all,” with health care and COVID-19 supply chains for important We promised Him to take care of said Nabil Costa, Executive support when hospitals in Beirut recovery items will be completely the people who are with us on BAPTIST CHURCHES Director of the Lebanese are either destroyed or already disrupted.” this ship.” WESTERN AUSTRALIA Society for Educational and overwhelmed by casualties. Baptist World Aid has “Our eyes are on Him. Our Social Development, of which Once these urgent needs have committed to sending a minimum hands are on the plough. Our team MERATH is a part. been met, Baptist World Aid will of $150,000 to support MERATH’s is doing great and creative work.” “Since September [we continue providing assistance immediate and long-term have had] forest fires, a through ongoing livelihood response to this disaster. To donate or learn more about financial crisis, bankruptcies, support for vulnerable families “There will be significant Baptist World Aid’s response to unemployment, refugee and refugees. and growing needs to address in the ongoing crisis in Lebanon, crisis, revolution in Lebanon, However, with winter fast the coming weeks, and we are visit baptistworldaid.org.au/ COVID-19,” Mr Costa said. approaching and hundreds of thankful we have such strong beirut-explosion 2 my view

OCTOBER 2020

When the truth doesn’t cut it

I was right and he was wrong. That was that. The whole way home I was and being right. But I took love stewing. How did I let him have the last word? If only I stood my ground, out of the equation, rather than then I could have proven to him that he was wrong in his thinking. put it in competition with the truth and let it lose. Truth is important, absolutely. But as My arguments were rock solid. I lack. I’m a peacemaker, a Then the Apostle Paul’s Paul says best, “Everything Need proof from Scripture? I conflict avoider. I’ve been words to the church in Corinth you do should be done in love.” had it – chapter and verse. If working on that area of came to mind. “If I speak in the [1 Corinthians 16:14 NET] only we had more time to finish my personality; trying in tongues of men and of angels, Yes, even being right. the discussion. But as I kept appropriate ways to be more but I do not have love, I am a Now if you’ll excuse me, replaying the conversation over assertive, to say what I think noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” there’s someone I need to and over in my mind, I knew. and to do what is right even if it [1 Corinthians 13:1 NET] apologise to. Ben Good I could hear it in his parting might cost me. Paul goes on to say, “Love Ben Good is normally involved words. I had hurt him. But then, in this case, I is patient, love is kind, it is not in gospel sharing amongst In that moment, I had went too far. My assertiveness envious. Love does not brag, it the Yawo people in Lichinga, become one of those people who became meanness. And my is not puffed up. It is not rude …” Mozambique, with Global puts truth and love on opposing counter argument became [1 Corinthians 13:4-5a NET] Interaction. However, he is poles and then chooses truth. the only argument. I gave my Love was all the things I wasn’t currently in Perth on home I felt terrible. Though that’s not friend no room to move. I was doing. I was doing something assignment with his family. entirely true. I felt conflicted. being hurtful and belittling. else, but it wasn’t loving. I’ve been reflecting recently But I couldn’t let him win. I Truth and love aren’t on assertiveness. It’s a quality was conflicted. mutually exclusive, nor is love

Life through googly eyes

Earlier in the year my son was given a board game called Googly Eyes. of encouragement, I decided You might have seen it – it’s basically played the same way you would to embrace it and play along. play Pictionary. Just before the timer ran out, one of them yells out, “Book!” Miraculously, somehow, he had One player is given an object or best to even find the edges of this year has been stressful figured it out! action to draw while the other the paper. I started to panic and even caused a bit of In the same way, as we players try to guess what it is. But inside; this was stressful, how panic. For our family, we are navigate our way through this before you start drawing, you put could I draw anything? longing to return to Thailand time, we can choose to listen to on a huge pair of glasses with Recently I have been to continue our work with the encouraging words of our lenses of all different shapes and reflecting on how 2020 has Global Interaction. While it’s Heavenly Father. For there is no colours making it impossible to felt a bit like a game of Googly still possible, it’s definitely a doubt that He can clearly see the Liz Black see clearly through them. Eyes. In January, we were lot more complicated than bigger picture. Liz Black and her family As a family we decided to playing Pictionary as we ever before. serve with Global Interaction, play. It looked fun! Except when made plans for the year. But During the game, I sat there working with the Ethnic Thai it came to my turn, as I put on at some point (around March) with the pencil in my hand, people in Northern Thailand. the glasses, I thought to myself, we were all forced to put on wondering, who would ever how am I ever going to be able the hazy, coloured lenses. As think up such an idea? This was to draw with these things on? life changed around us, plans not fun. Then I could hear my Let’s be honest, I’m not much became wiggly lines running sons laughing, cheering me on. of an artist without the glasses. off the page. Just like in the I realised that I had a choice. The timer started and I did my game, making any real plans With their high-pitched squeals

On doubt and probability …

The title of my latest book, Why Christianity is Probably True, has resulted in of people from all times and more discussion than the actual content of the book. Probably because lots of all places. The explanation people have read the book’s title, but not that many have read the book. is required from those who deny what is self-evident to most – that only a God- The responses have been for wavering – it’s true and that control and reminds us of sized explanation is large interesting. is that.” moments of clarity – times enough to understand the Some like the title, relating to It’s an interesting stance for when the presence of God was wonder of our universe. Most the modesty of the claim and to someone who has been called sufficiently tangible to soften instinctively recognise that the idea that we build our lives to a life of faith. After all, the our niggling uncertainties. there is something more, or on probability. After all, you can’t enemy of faith is not doubt, but This is not to suggest that as CS Lewis famously put it: be sure that you won’t be hit by certainty. If you are certain, there are not good reasons to “If I find within myself desires Dr Brian Harris a bus on your way to work, but faith is surplus to requirements. believe in God. Belief seems which nothing in this world Dr Brian Harris is the you probably embark on the You know because you know to be hardwired into our can satisfy, the only logical Principal of Vose Seminary journey anyway. – and therefore faith can be existence. Almost every people explanation is that I was made and Pastor at Large for the Some are a little annoyed abandoned. By contrast, if group throughout history for another world.” Carey Group. with me. Probably doesn’t do it you journey with doubt, the has believed in some version But now I am giving you a for them. They feel that I have reason your journey continues of God. Indeed, those who tiny taste of the book. And you introduced some doubt into is because your faith rises believe in God don’t really probably wanted that? what for them is a long-settled above those doubts and puts need to defend their belief – question. “Christianity is true,” them in a wider perspective. they stand in continuity with they proclaim, “there is no need Faith brings doubt under the overwhelming majority news 3

OCTOBER 2020 Road back to the mission field

While most of us are not planning holidays overseas just yet, a handful of Global Interaction’s intercultural workers stuck in Perth cannot wait to get on a plane and go home.

Ben and Sam Good, serving in felt loved that the Blacks were Mozambique along with their thinking of them, while unable three children, arrived in Perth in to be present in person. December for a six-month period Like the Goods, the Blacks of home assignment. have made the most of their Home assignment is extended stay in Perth. They taken every three years and have spent time on the family incorporates times of rest, farm, enjoyed a beach holiday training and connecting with with family and the nostalgic partners to tell stories and raise taste of meat pies, sausage rolls funds for ministry. and donuts. While home assignment began in typical fashion for the Good family, it all changed in March with the onset of the It turns out no COVID-19 pandemic. With churches closed and matter where social gatherings restricted, they turned to producing videos and in the world connecting online with churches we are, life is and supporters. They also realised that they were in for an extended very rarely stay in Perth before they could

return home. predictable. Supplied Photo: Ben and Sam joked that they Global Interaction intercultural worker Sally Pim sharing with Pastor Mark Edwards at are accustomed to uncertainty in Inglewood Community Church. Mozambique and were looking forward to ‘smooth sailing’ while Sally Pim, serving in in Australia. Mozambique, has walked a “How mistaken we were,” similar road. After arriving they said. in March, she quarantined in “It turns out no matter where Esperance with family. in the world we are, life is very Despite the challenges of Simplifying home care… rarely predictable.” connecting with churches, she “We have had to relearn to is very grateful for the generosity Because you have other priorities be content and to rely on God in she has experienced. all circumstances.” “I’ve been so encouraged However, the extended stay by the creativity of churches in in Perth has afforded some great finding different ways to connect opportunities. Their children will me in with their communities see through a year of school in during this season,” Sally said. Australia, Ben will complete some “I’ve been blown away by extra study at Vose Seminary people’s generosity during and there has been extra time for this season.” friends and family. “Thankfully most churches Glenn and Liz Black, serving are meeting face-to-face now, and in Thailand with their three I’ve been enjoying visiting home children, began home assignment groups and events in person.” in March with a period of The road home for Sally and quarantine. After months of video the Black and Good families is creating and online connection, tricky but looking more hopeful they were excited to reconnect each day. with supporters in churches Global Interaction WA State in person. Director, Dan McGrechan “There is nothing like the explained that they need to encouragement you receive from raise their full support, secure a smile and a ‘thanks for sharing’ a reliable and affordable plane We’ve made simplifying your home that you get in the foyer of the ticket and fulfil requirements to church,” they said. enter their country. care journey our priority. “We have felt so loved hearing “There are many obstacles, Introducing our FREE Demystifying Home Care Guide, from many people who share that but God is faithful. Personally, they pray for us regularly.” I have been praying that God your essential resource when it comes to navigating home care. “Every single church we visit would provide a way home for we come away truly blessed.” them every time I hear a plane go With over 45 years of caring for WA, we’re helping you from the The uncertainty of the season overhead. Perhaps others might start with up-to-date information on funding streams, eligibility has been the greatest challenge. join me in this prayer.” criteria – there’s even clear tips on how to apply. It has also been difficult to be The Blacks hope to return away from friends in Thailand. to Thailand in October, Sally to An online messaging app has Mozambique in November, and Give yourself the time to focus on the helped them stay in touch with the Goods to Mozambique in friends and team members. early January. things that matter. Call 1300 660 640 Recently some team for your FREE copy or download yours members attended a neighbour’s If you would like to support today at baptistcare.com.au funeral on behalf of the Blacks Global Interaction’s and presented a gift. Their intercultural workers, contact neighbours expressed they [email protected] 4 news

OCTOBER 2020 Even happier campers

COVID-19 has had a substantial financial impact on the Baptist Churches Western Australia’s camping ministry due to the cancellations of large groups and school camps since March of this year.

Baptist Churches Western separate from the daily routine, Australia Head of Campsites, enjoying getting away together Ross Daniels said while they and being surrounded by some were difficult days for staff, of the most amazing locations in he was grateful that most had Western Australia.” been eligible for the Federal All three sites have been Government’s JobKeeper focusing on areas of improvement Payment scheme. and looking to give a greater Following the easing of camper experience. Over the past restrictions in Western Australia, year, the Serpentine, Busselton including the intrastate borders and Kennedy (Albany) sites being reopened, the sites have continued to invest in their seen a positive improvement properties, with major work taking in bookings. place at Busselton during the Ross said campsite managers pandemic that allowed for little had excelled in meeting all the impact on bookings. necessary COVID-19 requirements Ross and Busselton Manager, as well as Departments of Health Andrew Collins have overseen and Education guidelines and the installation of new ablution compliance requirements. facilities at Busselton – the largest “Over the three facilities, financial investment on a site we have up to 40 staff all doing since the Serpentine gymnasium incredible work and bringing was built in 1997. their best every day,” he said. The new facilities, located Ross, who has overseen the on Busselton’s Site B, include

campsites for more than ten 13 new showers and toilets that Daniels Ross Photo: years, continues to be amazed incorporate accessible spaces for The new ablution facilities installed at the Busselton Camping Centre in July were among improvements at faith-based camps and the people with disabilities. made to Baptist Camping Centres during the COVID-19 restrictions. lifelong impact they have. Andrew also sourced a “They provide such rich and shipping container of bunk beds, responses received from “Our facilities are mature, but them strengthen their faith positive memories, and it’s great manufactured to Australian satisfaction surveys regarding we are so blessed to have them,” communities.” to meet with campers who reflect standards, to replace ageing stock catering and customer service. Ross said. on these precious experiences,” at the three sites. Prior to Christmas, the “We value the ongoing For more information, visit he said. Serpentine continues to Serpentine Facilities Manager, support of our Baptist baptistcampingcentres.org “When you stay at a Baptist cater for large group bookings Marc Marion oversaw a revamp of churches and know camping Camping Centre, it is our hope and school camps, with the dining hall, with a full repaint experiences are a key way we that you will have the chance to overwhelmingly positive in vibrant colours. serve our churches and help

Baptistcare chefs pioneering change

A team of five-star chefs is bringing fine dining to Baptistcare residential care facilities across Perth and regional Western Australia as part of a radical new approach to cooking for aged-care residents.

From old favourites packed with Over the past 12 months, flavour, to new taste sensations Mr Cheavins has hand-picked and breakfast buffets, their a team of head chefs who bring dishes are delighting residents experience from some of the while changing the face of food world’s top hotels and restaurants, in aged care. including Crown Casino, The Baptistcare’s innovative new Ritz-Carlton Perth, JW Marriott approach to cooking for people Mumbai and The Westin in residential care is being driven Singapore, as well as the Brunei by its Canadian-born Executive Royal Family. Chef, Todd Cheavins who “We’re emphasising choice has cooked for celebrities and and selection, and making royalty including Pink, Oprah, meals an enjoyable time,” Pippa Middleton and the King of Mr Cheavins said. Malaysia while working in luxury “Yes, food needs to be hotels around the world. nutritious and tailored to residents’ Mr Cheavins said Baptistcare’s needs, but it also plays a critical new menus were a far cry from role in evoking lovely memories.” the “over-cooked vegetables, “I’ve had my time working tough meat and bland food” so for top hotels and cooking for often associated with aged care. celebrities. Now I want to bring “We’re thinking about the love and passion to aged

different flavours, textures, care and allow other chefs to Baptistcare Photo: colours and presentation. That’s bring their love and passion into Baptistcare’s five-star chef team, Shishir More, Wesley Chong, Todd Cheavins, Raj Thiruvathipuram, where the focus is,” he said. Baptistcare kitchens too.” John Locke and Chinmay Dandekar, are bringing major changes to aged care menus. news 5

OCTOBER 2020 Even happier campers Fires ravage Pacific Northwest

It has been described as the worst fire season on “It’s part of a really tough year record. Thirty-three people are confirmed dead, for our country,” Randy said. countless are reported as missing and 500,000 have “But our churches here are extremely resilient, and they’re been ordered to evacuate as 100 wildfires sweep willing to help each other out.” across the Pacific Northwest of the United States. “One thing I’ve noticed is a lot of reaching out to places and The fires cover around 20,000 Len shared that East Side churches that are impacted most. square kilometres in 12 states, had used its clothing closet to Our pastors pull together during over three times the size of provide clothes to evacuees. The a time like this.” metropolitan Perth. church also partnerede with One Len said he had never In an interview with the Hope Lane County, a network experienced anything like this. television program This Week, of pastors, ministry leaders, “Layer it on top of the whole Democrat of Oregon, Senator Jeff churches and local businesses, to coronavirus thing, and it’s just Merkley said that he drove 600 help provide support, including been crazy.” miles up and down the state, but chaplaincy services. “[But], it will come back. It’s never escaped the smoke. East Side’s response was amazing how it renews itself, and “We have thousands of people being mirrored by churches it’ll grow back.” who have lost their homes. I elsewhere in Oregon, as well as The immediate concern is could have never envisioned in Washington, which is also quenching the fires across this,” he said. battling fires. the state. In an interview with Baptist Northwest Baptist “We don’t often need to Press, an elder at East Side Baptist Convention Executive Director, pray for rain [in the Pacific Church in Oregon, Len Arney said Randy Adams said some Northwest], but that would be a the church had opened its doors to churches were partnering with godsend,” Len said, also noting anyone who needed shelter, with other organisations, such as the that forecasts for the next week the church car park being used by Red Cross, to provide meals or included possible rain. people in campervans, escaping offer their facilities as staging

the fire fronts. areas. Disaster relief chaplains Author – Matthew Chapman Photo: European Space Agency “We’ve had forest fires – we have been sent out to minister to Pacific Northwest states in the US have been battling close to 100 wildfires, just haven’t had one like this,” the affected communities in blanketing much of the west coast in smoke. Captured on 10 September, lifelong resident said. both states. this Copernicus Sentinel-3 image shows the extent of the smoke plume.

Pledge to end COVID-19 Reimagining the future

In July, Baptist World best healthcare systems, many walks of life, who really care As is the scenario for church and ministry Aid Australia joined of its global neighbours are about this issue,” she said. leaders across the world, COVID-19 provided the campaign to End ill-equipped to deal with the So far, more than 24,950 Yvette Cherry an opportunity to reassess her current pandemic. Australians have signed the COVID For All, inviting By signing the pledge, pledge, including a number approach in supporting West Australian women its supporters to sign Australians are demonstrating of high-profile Australians in pastoral and ministry leadership. the pledge and do their desire to see the government such as former Prime Minister the same. provide vital COVID-19 support to Julia Gillard, Carrie Bickmore, Yvette, the Women’s Leadership more intimate gatherings, vulnerable nations. Tim Costello and Adam Liaw, Pastor at Baptist Churches greater empowerment of local Baptist World Aid’s End who have also thrown their Western Australia, said that at ministers and leaders, and End COVID For All is a shared COVID For All spokesperson, support behind the campaign. the end of 2019, she had created deeper connections in one-to- initiative, backed by more than Vanessa Miller said politicians a ministry plan full of events. one, peer group and retreat- 200 health, faith and civil society were motivated to act by the To sign the pledge, visit “I was so confident in it I style settings. organisations that, like Baptist voices of their constituents. baptistworldaid.org.au/ printed and laminated it and “God seems to be inviting World Aid Australia, support the “The hope of this campaign end-covid-for-all stuck it inside the front of my us to reimagine the future,” assistance of vulnerable nations is that it will continue to illustrate 2020 diary,” she said. Yvette said. across the world. to our nation’s decision makers Yvette laughed at how “I sense that He is calling It recognises that while that there is a movement of irrelevant those plans became us to work more closely and Australia has one of the world’s people, across all sectors and and excited about some of the specifically with emerging learning that has come out female leaders as they of the opportunity to reflect, continue to step into their pray, process change and set a giftedness to lead.” new course. “The big conference During this time of space is exciting and we discernment, the careful loved what we did there, decision was made to but in this new season, the discontinue the annual powerful conversations, the women’s event Fresh catalytic moments and the Conference. authentic connections … it She said while it was feels like they’re happening a brilliant event, which in the less glamorous attracted many people spaces; the small groups, and raised more than $1 the gathering of the few, million for Baptist World Aid the intentional raising up of Australia, both founding leaders for the future …” director Karen Wilson and Yvette felt that God was calling them to minister to Baptist leaders in new ways. In 2020 and beyond,

Photo: Eternity Yvette’s focus will shift to A movement of Australians are backing the campaign End COVID For All. 6 news

OCTOBER 2020 Engagement beyond reproach

At no other time in found youth were far more “If the conversation goes for history have church comfortable speaking online longer than four sentences, we leaders been called on to than face to face. shift from online conversation and “With the recent example of initiate a face-to-face conversation use online technology an emergency warning from the with at least two leaders,” he said. and social media Government eSafety Commission, “We want to be above than in the current in light of horrifying content reproach but still engage with COVID-19 season, trending between platforms, youth in the platforms they would it not be wiser to avoid choose to occupy.” according to Baptist engagement in most social media Ed shared that a focus for the Churches Western altogether?,” Ed asked. BCWA Next Generations ministry Australia (BCWA) Next “Like any other ministry, was encouraging ongoing, Generations Pastor, pastors do not shy away from the thoughtful discussion at a whole dark side of life,” Ed shared. of church level, to bridge the Ed Devine. “In fact, Jesus’ example was to gap between the way churches be amongst the people who were communicate online while “Social media platforms have considered sinners and relegated ensuring the safeguards required made it possible for people to the fringes of society.” for healthy ministry are in place. to stay connected, and youth Ed said that there was a “Our BCWA Safe Church and young adult leaders in call to wade into the mess and training now includes a special Western Australia have done complexity of life, whilst being highlight on online ministry, the excellent work in stepping into grounded on the solid rock of key being that all regular Safe social media spaces, such as Christ and the accountability of Church practices still apply to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat the church community. ministry online,” he said. and TikTok, in a way that has “Ministry to people via social been missionally meaningful media is no different,” he said. If you would like to discuss while maintaining a ministry Ben O’Reilly shared that how your church is engaging practice that is safe and the way he and his team with social media, particularly accountable,” Ed said. managed the challenge was in the Next Generations space, He noted the importance through engaging healthily – by please contact Ed Devine at for ministers to the iGeneration channelling all online questions the Baptist Ministry Centre, or (born 1997 to 2012) to be current through their youth group social visit nextgenbaptistwa.com.au/ in the ways they communicate. media channel, which has at ministrycovid19

Carey Baptist Church Youth least three administrators Image: Ed Devine Pastor, Ben O’Reilly said he for accountability. A guideline to ministering safely online.

Zoom app supports churches

The rapid pivot in video conferencing was thrust upon many organisations, including churches, due to the impact of COVID-19 and the requirement for social distancing and working from home.

In the months prior to 75-inch touch screen to interact restrictions being implemented, with pastors and ministry leaders Baptist Churches Western throughout the State. Australia (BCWA) staff were BCWA Church and Leaders investigating video conferencing Pastor, Michael Bullard said it was with the aim of using it to good timing with the installation resource churches in areas such of the new equipment prior to as the Safe Church ministry. the pandemic. “When you consider the size of our State, this new technology has enabled us to better resource When you churches and helped alleviate the need for pastors and ministry consider the leaders to travel vast distances to meet with us and one another,” size of our State, he said. this new Michael said the technology had been essential in the technology has implementation of Safe Church training, with over enabled us to 400 participants registered to better resource take part in online Safe Church training since the pandemic churches ... started.

Author – Matthew Chapman

Due to a grant made available from a Perth-based Christian trust, a Zoom room was installed at the Baptist Ministry

Centre, allowing staff to use Photo: Chris Montgomery/Unsplash 4K 360-degree cameras and a Baptist Churches Western Australia staff have used video conferencing to resource churches. news 7

OCTOBER 2020 Course delivered in new way

During July, Global Interaction trained more than 110 participants in an adapted version of its Strategic Mission Week course.

Traditionally held in person, teach children in Mozambique the annual intercultural mission and Global Interaction alumni. course was held online for the Current intercultural first time to great effect in order workers Glenn and Liz Black, to accommodate COVID-19 Sally Pim and Ben Good joined restrictions. participants and shared their Strategic Mission Week aims rich experiences of intercultural to equip people who are preparing mission. to serve in overseas mission and Dan, who was involved in provides church leaders with a planning and facilitating the better understanding of effective week, said like most people mission practice, locally during this season, Global and globally. Interaction had to explore doing It covers a range of topics things differently. including biblical theology, “We were amazed at the contextualisation and number of registrations, quality sustainable development. of online training presented and Global Interaction WA State high level of engagement from Director, Dan McGrechan said participants,” he said. moving online enabled overseas “The success of this week has

intercultural workers in nine fundamentally shifted how we Davis John Photo: countries to participate and will run courses going forward.” West Australians participating via Zoom in this year’s Strategic Mission Week course run by Global Interaction in July. facilitate sessions. It also allowed Dan said feedback from people from rural areas of participants included the Australia to participate without following: the need to travel. “The strength of the content makes this my favourite Christian conference I’ve participated in.” Bible translation hits 700 “Global Interaction has a superb team of people.” The strength of “I really enjoyed Strategic The Bible has been translated into its 700th language. The milestone the content Mission Week. It gave me further is indicative of the acceleration that is happening in the work of Bible insight on the life of a missionary; translation to the extent that it is impossible to say which translation was makes this my the sacrifice, the joy, the hope, and the love for God’s people actually the 700th, as several launches of physical and online Bibles were favourite by these beautiful missionaries, happening at the same time. whether it’s here in Australia or Christian overseas. My husband and I hope Wycliffe Bible Translators remarkable figure and continues hundreds of people dancing and conference I’ve to join this group of people in the Executive Director, James Poole to grow.” singing in celebration. not-too-distant future.” said it was exciting news and “However, there are still about Senior Chief Nazombe, participated in. represented the tremendous work 1.5 billion people – that’s roughly who received a copy of the new To view sessions from that Bible translators were doing one in five – who do not have the Bible on behalf of the Ellomwe Strategic Mission Week, visit at across the world. Bible in their language.” community, said: “I am grateful globalinteraction.org.au. “Every time we hear of the “That’s an injustice that Bible to God that I can witness this in Bible being translated into another translation teams worldwide my lifetime.” The Baptist Ministry Centre in To register your interest for the language, we know that means continue to work to put right.” James said it is amazing that Perth hosted a hub for people to 2021 course (5 to 9 July), email that for the first time the people Although there cannot be there is so much Bible translation participate in person, promoting [email protected] in that language group can fully certainty which was actually going on that the 700th Bible rich discussion and engagement access the complete picture of the 700th translation, there could not be pinpointed. among participants. God’s story,” James said. have been several dedications “We live in exciting times, Participants included church “It’s good to take a step back recently that might have been when the vision that all people pastors, young adults exploring and realise what this 700th Bible the 700th that sum up the joy will be able to read or hear mission, teachers preparing to means: 5.7 billion people who and celebration that comes with God’s Word in their language is speak 700 languages now have a newly translated Bible. becoming a reality,” he said. the Bible in the language that The Ellomwe Bible was speaks to them best. That is a launched in Malawi with Briefs

Stamps for Global Pastoral changes Interaction Pastor Alex Huggett has Each year, many thousands been appointed as the Lead Pastor of dollars are raised from the at Bentley Baptist Church. sale of used stamps for the work Pastor Rick Fletcher has been of Global Interaction. Instead of appointed as the Pastor at throwing stamps on envelopes Ellenbrook Baptist Church. away, Global Interaction asks people to place them in a box in church foyers, send them to the Global Interaction State Office at PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 or drop them in to the Baptist Ministry Centre at 21 Rowe Avenue, Rivervale. Please leave

five millimetres of the envelope Photo: Bible Society of Malawi around the stamp. Chiringa villagers marching through the streets with a representation of their newly translated Ellomwe Bible. 8 feature

OCTOBER 2020

BWA Women President announced

Global Leadership Network Australia CEO, Karen Wilson will serve as President of the Baptist World Alliance Women’s Department (BWA Women) for the 2020 to 2025 term.

BWA Women hosted an Officer Installation Interim Executive Director of BWA Women, and Commissioning Service on 16 July via an Moreen Sharp welcomed Karen and Sherrie with online platform following the postponement of great enthusiasm to the team. the quinquennial Global Conference of Baptist “We know they will fit well into the Women due to COVID-19. organisation and have much to offer Baptist The ceremony commemorated the five women around the world,” Moreen remarked. years of committed service by Ksenija Magda, “Their expertise and wisdom have already of Croatia, as President and Kathryn James, of been very evident and their input, skills and the USA, as Secretary-Treasurer during the 2015 leadership will have a marked influence as we to 2020 term. The service included prayers of move into the future together.” thanks to God as well as thanks to the leaders for Baptist World Alliance General Secretary, their faithful work. Dr Elijah Brown said BWA Women remained a After the commemoration the new vital part of BWA life and ministry. officers were installed, including Karen and “It is with enthusiasm that we celebrate the Sherrie Cherdak, of the USA, who will serve as commissioning of Karen and Sherrie as new Secretary-Treasurer. officers. It’s an honour to serve alongside these Karen, whose husband is Baptist Churches strategic and godly leaders,” he said. Western Australia’s Director of Ministries, “I call on all Baptists to pray for them in this Pastor Mark Wilson said she was excited to be season of commissioning and that the Holy part of what God is doing amongst women Spirit would continue to flow through them and across our world. through BWA Women for the glory of the Lord.” “It will be a privilege to stand alongside As part of the commissioning service, Dr our Continental Union Presidents as we work Brown prayed the following prayer over the two together as a team,” she said. newly appointed officers. “I believe God is calling us to occupy new spaces, to stand together, to encourage each To view the commissioning service, visit other and champion one another forward.” youtu.be/BEhw31WKCl0 “We all have an amazing opportunity in front of us to be part of this global movement Author – Merritt Johnston which is having a significant impact.” Karen has a strong passion to see people lead well and to be equipped and grow into their full potential. She has always had a love for working with people from all walks of life and feels called to amplify the voices of the marginalised, having spent several years working in countries across the world. Sherrie brings with her a background as a bookkeeper and has already been serving BWA Women in that role. This enables her to begin her role as Secretary-Treasurer with a solid understanding of the inner workings of the organisation. feature 9

OCTOBER 2020

A prayer of blessing

In your leadership, you are continuing a strong biblical tradition of women who have advanced the Kingdom of God. May you lead in the spirit and power of:

Shiphrah and Puah, midwives for justice who brought forward life

Rahab who provided refuge for strangers

Ruth who embraced isolation and risk to provide care

Hannah whose prayer and sacrifice set in motion Kingdom initiatives that impacted generations

Huldah who was trusted to provide theological reflection and insight into the ways of the Lord

Esther whose bravery prevented a genocide

Elisabeth who sensed the Holy Spirit in ways her husband, a professional priest, did not and who helped raise a voice in the wilderness calling for national repentance

Mary whose willing availability changed the contours of history and who at a personal level embraced uncertainty and constant adjustment in deepening recognition of Jesus and the mission of God

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary commissioned as the first evangelists with the transformative declaration that Jesus is risen

Mary the mother of Mark who likely owned the home that hosted the Last Supper, the home where Jesus greeted the disciples after his resurrection, the home where the disciples reflected on Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, a Pentecostal outpouring needed again today that every language and people group in the world may declare the praises of Jesus Christ

Priscilla who along with her husband Aquila modelled missional church planting

Junia who was well known to the apostles for her leadership and suffered the indignity of imprisonment for her faith in order to live as an apostle for Jesus Christ.

First and foremost, may you lead and serve with the spirit and mind of Jesus Christ.

You are gifted, empowered, and called to serve for the glory of Jesus. We listen, we learn, and we serve alongside you. God bless you and continue to use you as President and Secretary-Treasurer of BWA Women.

Voiced by Baptist World Alliance General Secretary, Dr Elijah Brown on the day of commissioning of BWA Women President, Karen Wilson and Secretary-Treasurer, Sherrie Cherdak, 16 July 2020. 10 world news

OCTOBER 2020 Speaking out on slavery

Christian surfer Bethany Hamilton has spoken out against the effects of human trafficking, sharing that it is time to bring an end to the fastest growing criminal enterprise in the world.

Bethany was made famous by a survivors. These new resources shark attack in Hawaii in 2003 … expand on our efforts to offer in which she lost her arm at the those who have suffered the shoulder. Using her large social shelter and support they need to media following, she spoke out begin a new and better life.” against the abuse that is prevalent The grants will go to 73 in society, sharing information organisations to provide six reported by Operation to 24 months of transitional Underground Railroad (OUR), a or short-term housing non-profit organisation dedicated assistance for trafficking to fighting human trafficking. victims, including rental, In one of a number of social utilities or related expenses, media posts, she shared that there such as security deposits and were 30 million slaves worldwide relocation costs. The grants – 10 million of these are children. will also provide funding for According to OUR, there are support needed to help victims more people enslaved today than locate permanent housing, any other time in history, even secure employment, as well when slavery was legal. as occupational training and At the same time as Bethany counselling. was taking to social media In 2018, the OVC in

highlighting the devastating conjunction with stakeholders Photo: Mary Ernsdorf effects of trafficking, the United launched the Human Trafficking Christian surfer Bethany Hamilton highlights the scourge of human trafficking that is at historic highs. States Department of Justice, Capacity Building Center. The through the Office for Victims of centre has identified that human Crime (OVC) announced it was trafficking offences were among awarding more than $35 million the most difficult crimes to in grant funding to providers identify and that the scope of for housing victims of human human trafficking victimisation trafficking. may be much greater than the “Human trafficking is a limited data reflects. barbaric criminal enterprise that In highlighting the abhorrent subjects its victims to unspeakable information around trafficking, cruelty and deprives them of the Bethany posted: “END IT. This most basic of human needs, none is so devastatingly sad and more essential than a safe place sickening. Slavery is clearly alive to live,” United States Attorney and thriving.” General, William Barr said. “The Department of Justice Author – Matthew Chapman has fought aggressively to bring human traffickers to justice and to deliver critical aid to trafficking

International Briefs Photo: SibRapid/Shutterstock North Korea being impacted by ‘ghost disease’ while denying it’s impacting the population.

Co-founder of holding indoor services Mission Aviation following a court ruling. Fellowship passes The church has been North Korea’s ‘ghost disease’ Stuart King, the co-founder disregarding public health of Mission Aviation Fellowship officials’ orders since early (MAF) in the United Kingdom, August, with the Senior Pastor North Korean officials report the authoritarian “But even if they are open, has passed away aged 98. Stuart telling his church “there is no state has largely avoided the COVID-19 outbreak, there’s little food you can buy. served as a Royal Air Force pandemic”. but experts say it is improbable to avoid higher And prices have quadrupled. It engineer during World War II “While the court is mindful will cost you many months’ salary and following the war, dedicated that there is no substitute for case numbers due to the extensive border it shares to buy a kilo of rice.” his life to using light aircraft to indoor worship in the ‘spiritual with China. He shared that his team has share the gospel in the remotest refuge’ of a sanctuary, the court food, medicines, winter clothes part of the world. cannot ignore the County Now stories are starting to “It’s an invisible killer.” and other necessary goods ready The Archbishop of Health Order and does not corroborate what experts believe Like most countries, North for North Korean Christians. Canterbury, Justin Welby dictate a ban on worship,” Judge and what North Koreans are Korea has taken measures to “But first God needs to open said: “Stuart’s tremendous Mitchell Beckloff said. calling the ‘ghost disease’. stop the spread of COVID-19 but the door,” he said. contribution to the founding of Brother Simon*, who works this has meant that little food is “Once people are able to come MAF has had a profound impact Baptist Churches Western through a network in China as getting into the country, either out of the country, we can give on the ministry of many people Australia recommends that an Open Doors coordinator for legally or on the black market. them the means to survive.” across the world and in the churches follow the guidance ministry among North Koreans, “Even at the best of times, “Recently we’ve had a window Anglican Communion.” and instructions of State said people can be sick without survival can be extremely of opportunity to do a little relief. and Federal Governments knowing it. difficult in North Korea,” We’re waiting for the next one.” Megachurch pastor regarding the COVID-19 “They are usually Brother Simon said. told to obey rules pandemic. malnourished already. Then “Many marketplaces have * Name has been changed for A Californian megachurch suddenly they die quickly. Some closed down, even though security reasons. pastored by John MacArthur, even just fall dead on the ground,” the population is completely has been ordered to stop Brother Simon said. dependent on the black markets.” Author – Matthew Chapman world news 11

OCTOBER 2020 Church finances sea rescue

In the absence of government-funded rescue operations, the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) has led an initiative to fund a ship with the mission to rescue migrants at risk of drowning in the Mediterranean Sea.

Nine days after setting off on its first mission in August, the ship had already rescued 200 migrants attempting to reach Europe from North Africa by boat. The ship, a 60.8 metre- long former research vessel, was purchased for 1.5 million euros by the United4Rescue, an association led by the Evangelical Church in Germany and backed by more than 500 individual churches and organisations. Operated by the advocacy group Sea-Watch in cooperation

with Médecins Sans Frontières, Photo: Sea-Watch the ship seeks to save as many An association led by the Evangelical Church in Germany has sent the Sea-Watch 4 to the central Mediterranean to rescue migrants at risk of drowning. people as possible from drowning in the absence of government- funded rescue operations in the Sea-Watch 4 on its first rescue Mediterranean Sea. mission. “This ship has to be out there, because European states Survey confirms thousands do not intend, nor do they manage, to rescue people in This ship has to the Mediterranean.” of conversions in Iran be out there, According to Sea-Watch, privately funded rescue ships because are currently the only rescue ships in the Mediterranean European states since the discontinuation of do not intend, all government-funded rescue operations, such as the Italian nor do they Operation Mare Nostrum. Operation Mare Nostrum was manage, to initiated in 2013, when two boats rescue people sank off the Italian island of Lampedusa, drowning more than in the 370 migrants. However, it was discontinued a year later despite Mediterranean. having contributed to the rescue of about 150,000 migrants. Sea-Watch spokesperson Mattea Weihe told The Guardian that while the Sea-Watch 4 was In an interview with the desperately needed in the central German newspaper Rheinische Mediterranean, it was more than Post, the head of the EKD, just a “rescue asset”. Heinrich Bedford-Strohm “It is a huge 60.8-metre sign

explained that it sought to of solidarity, sent by over 500 Photo: Borna Mirahmadian/Shutterstock support this privately-funded organisations, of civil society, A recent secular survey by a Dutch research group has added weight to Christian reports of widespread growth rescue operation in the with the church in the front of Christianity in Iran. Mediterranean while a permanent row. It demonstrates that civil solution for government-funded society, in Europe, disagrees operations with a clear mandate with the fact that governments A secular survey adds residing in Iran. Extrapolating Measuring Attitudes in Iran led was not in place. choose to let people drown,” weight to Christian the survey results over Iran’s by Assistant Professor at Tilburg Mr Bedford-Strohm Ms Weihe said. reports of widespread population of approximately University, Ammar Maleki and acknowledged that the rescue The International 50 million literate adults, the Assistant Professor at Utrecht ship did not solve the issues Organization for Migration (IOM) growth of Christianity findings suggest an estimated University, Pooyan Tamimi Arab. surrounding fair asylum Missing Migrants Project has in Iran. number of at least 750,000 According to Open Doors procedures and migration politics recorded more than 550 deaths Iranian believers. Australia, Christians in Iran in Europe, but was intended as of migrants by drowning in the A recent survey of 50,000 It is the first time that secular face intense government “urgent emergency assistance” in Mediterranean this year alone. Iranians by a Netherlands-based research has added weight to persecution. The country absence of political consensus on According to IOM, more than research group found that reports by Christian advocacy ranks ninth on the Open Doors the issues. 20,000 migrants have died trying 1.5 percent of participants groups who have been observing 2020 World Watch List of the “One does not let any to cross the Mediterranean Sea identified as Christian. a surge of conversions in Iran 50 most dangerous countries single human drown. Period!” since 2014. The target population of the for years. to follow Jesus. Mr Bedford-Strohm said during survey included literate Iranians The survey was conducted a ceremony to send off the Author – Ramona Humphreys over the age of 20, 90 percent by the Group for Analyzing and Author – Ramona Humphreys 12 in conversation

OCTOBER 2020 Pastoring in the COVID-19 landscape

As a young adult in his late 20s, Josh Thomas wears the hat of being a husband to Marnél, father to three young children along with being the Associate Pastor at Lesmurdie Baptist Church.

The Advocate caught up with Josh Phase 4 restrictions we cannot recently to have a conversation accommodate the whole church about how he has looked after family in person on our site. these responsibilities, especially Though, many have chosen through this COVID-19 season. to remain online for a host of reasons so we may not get the Josh, as you reflect on 2020 whole church family in person and the challenges that we have for a while anyway. To the casual faced, what are your initial observer it seems chaotic, but reflections? How have you found relationships act as a network this season being a husband, that keep us strong through life father and pastor? groups, midweek programs, My initial reflection is to Sunday services both in person acknowledge that, while we and online, and friendships. share the same COVID-19 laws All of this exists to best express throughout Western Australia, we as a local church that Jesus is

have experienced this epidemic awesome, and you should get Photo: Pexels/Kaboompics.com in different ways. I am blessed to to know Him some more. My Associate Pastor at Lesmurdie Baptist Church, Josh Thomas talks about pastoring through COVID-19 while being have maintained my job, avoided instinct is that this style of one a husband to Marnél and their children Azaliah, Zoelle and Ezra. serious illness, and alongside my church with many entry points is wife used the time to reshape here to stay at Lesmurdie Baptist some of our rhythms as a family Church. This excites and scares this years ago with email, text, was a lot of worry for family over we could support though prayer, unit. So, I reflect that while this me because while it is nice to see Facebook and other social media. in the eastern states and overseas provide references to other period has been tiring, it has been everyone in person, it is healthier We know how to connect with as well. While the pastoral chatter agencies, listen, distribute comparatively easier than for our that more people are able to people online, that is already was occasionally blessed with an food hampers and spend time brothers and sisters in other parts connect. normal. What was not normal for individual realising how awesome with people. of the world. As a husband, father us was the production of content Jesus has been and how hopeful and pastor, the changes to what Having transitioned to different to engage and helpfully nourish the future seems with some newly Are there some final words you was normal have been intense and service options for gatherings in the online community. gained perspective, a lot of the would like to share with readers led to many realisations – mostly person and now having a digital Learning to share content chats were more unsure in nature. of The Advocate? to do with my capacity, my limits, congregation/community that that was helpful, produce content The fear and stress of not knowing This was a tiring season of and how to rely on others more. you engage with each week, how that we could use in person and what was next for us here in change. For many workforces is that all managed? online, and ask for help from Perth, how bad would it actually this was a season of learning What sort of conversations did During this season we went other churches so we could use be. The lament at losing contact new things while juggling what you find yourself having with from our normal two services, their content, was a big learning with family members, old habits, was already normal and facing your children and Marnél about morning and night, to two curve. I remember at Easter on the old normal way of living. One uncertainty. A lot of people are this season? morning services. We have now Thursday night working on my thing that surprised me a bit was tired, stressed and anxious. And Marnél and I took each week at altered to one service in the 2013 MacBook Air, which was how many people were unhappy rightly so. As a husband I felt this a time. The conversations started morning. We have streamed struggling as I frantically put with the 1.5m social distancing, time has given me and Marnél a with ‘Is it really going to be that three times a day the recording together the Good Friday service the loss of human contact from chance to re-evaluate. As a dad, bad?’, progressed to ‘What can we of the morning service, two of with all the different elements. close church family was a real this time has given me some cool do under these restrictions?’, and those being hosted and one being I texted our lead pastor at 11.59pm, problem for some people. opportunities to hang out with my finally rested around ‘Whatever something you could watch but “Getting to render 30 seconds kids in different situations and try we need to do, we can do it!’. not comment or request prayer before midnight! Hope it is all How did you stay in ‘pastoral’ new things together. As a pastor The conversations that hit the on. We manage all this by making there when I wake up.” Then touch with your parishioners this season saw me realise my hardest were with our four year sure anything we do in person at 7.36am Good Friday, “All and give support? limits, crash for a few days, and old daughter, Azaliah. She had just has been thought through for the uploaded and ready to go. See you The work of Karen Siggins, re-emerge the other side with a started kindy and was getting into person watching at home. at 9.20am.” Lesmurdie Baptist Church’s lead different strategy to facing life. a groove when ‘the sickness’, as Our aim is that the online Nothing raises the stress quite pastor, in establishing a healthy I cannot imagine what readers she called it, sent her back home. service is not a poor cousin to like over 180 people relying on pastoral care team meant that have personally gone through. Talking with her and our son, Ezra, the gatherings in person, as you and your outdated laptop to keeping in contact looked like I hope they are stronger, have a about why we could not go on the many who watch online in our produce a service. So, the biggest being a team player. Between our deeper relationship with Jesus, rides at the shops, why they can’t church community do so for challenge to ministering to an pastoral care team, the church was rely more on the work of the play at playgrounds, hug their many reasons. We treat people online community has been divided so that every person on Holy Spirit and see the Heavenly friends, or return to the normal who watch online as every bit as blessing them with the content our church books was connected Father’s heart for them. As I say weekly schedule, were all difficult engaged as the people in the pew, and resources that we are used to a member of the team. Pastoral to my children each night before and sobering. so to speak. This takes volunteers, to giving people who turn up care then took the form of email, they go to sleep; ‘God made you, an administrative workload and in person to our programs and phone calls, snail mail (the power Jesus loves you, and the Spirit is Lesmurdie Baptist Church prayer. To top it off there is a lot of services. I must have missed of a person receiving a physical with you. Go get some rest.’ moved quickly towards an communication, conversations, Filmmaking 101 and Marketing for letter is incredible) and Zoom online model for its services and surveys and social media posts to Dummies at seminary. hangouts, and when restrictions recently moved back to both keep people in the loop. eased some one-on-one physical and online services. In the early stages, as you catch-ups. What do you think the post- What are the challenges you have provided pastoral care to your Our ministries also connected COVID Lesmurdie church will found in ministering to an online community, were there recurring with their people through social look like in the future? community? themes coming up in your media and snail mail, which was I think that Lesmurdie Baptist The biggest challenge has conversations with great. Regular pastoral updates Church will look decentralised been content. We know how to church members? from the team allowed Karen and I for a while. At the time of writing, chat, pray for people, organise There were some key themes to ensure the people of Lesmurdie the Phase 5 plan has been catch-ups, and provide support that kept coming out, fear, hope, Baptist Church received the pushed back again and with online. We have transitioned to stress, loss. On top of this there support they needed. From this growth 13

OCTOBER 2020 Glimpses

This week, I bought miracle of human presence any a newspaper and a day. I’ve had the virus and have lost takeaway coffee for friends to it. People have lost jobs. People have lost lives. the first time in two And yet, in the midst of months. suffering, many have spoken of noticing things for the first As I sat on a park bench, it was like time: the silent skies, the empty the good old days, ‘Before-COVID’. roads, the five different kinds of I felt giddy emerging into my birdsong heard at dusk. Fresh air. new-found freedom, like someone The neighbour of ten years who feasting after a fast. Thank you, I brought you groceries when you said. Gratitude for small things has were sick and whose name you come easily recently. now know. Glimpses of things But the coffee had too much that were either lost or impossible milk in it and the newspaper too to see before all this; glimpses of much bile. As I sat there reading a better world. about the lifting of restrictions, and As we re-emerge it would the people who are ignoring them, be a shame to go back to the old and the anger people feel about settings, to miss the opportunity, this, I was taken back to something to forget the things that this great I’d almost forgotten – the old stopping of the world has shown paradigm of a nation stuck in us, to forget the good we’ve shouty, binary positions, divisions glimpsed. A better world is not that, for a few months at least, found in utopian visions. Those

seemed to have been replaced by are illusions. No, it is found here. Photo: Shutterstock a kind of unity, even a vision for a In the world we’ve been given. As different kind of world. the French poet Paul Éluard said: cupboard to find the silence Rhidian Brook is an award- This is a significant, possibly “There is another world and it is I need. The world is getting winning writer of fiction, dangerous moment for all of us. As in this one.” Sometimes, like the noisier again, and we’re going to television drama and film and we slowly emerge from lockdown Psalmist, we just have to be still in have to work hard not to let the regularly presents BBC Radio 4’s and return to what passes for order to see it. volume drown out that ‘still small ‘Thought for the Day’. normal life, whilst still trying to Outside I hear planes again. voice’ that’s been telling us what take the thing that put us there Cars swoosh down our road. And we always suspected: that there is seriously. I feel no nostalgia for the someone is drilling the wall the a world better than this. deprivations of lockdown; give other side of my study. To record me the company of friends, the this, I’m going to have to get in a Author – Rhidian Brook

Finding contentment is the secret to lockdown

Almost everyone agrees that lockdown in Melbourne is much harder second time around and that COVID fatigue is taking a toll. Christian faith should – theoretically – help in the form of consolation, acceptance, optimism and renewed motivation to love our neighbours.

Even if not, one biblical teaching that. Those who want to get rich could benefit everyone: the secret fall into temptation and a trap and of contentment, a state that rises into many foolish and harmful above personal circumstances. desires … for the love of money Part of the Christian is a root of all kinds of evil … understanding shares a [Instead,] pursue righteousness, widespread philosophical- godliness, faith, love, endurance religious perspective and part is and gentleness.” [1 Timothy 6:6- uniquely Christian. 10a, 11b NIV] The shared part was aptly Some 1,000 years earlier, summarised by Rudyard Kipling, in the Old Testament book who wrote of meeting “Triumph of Proverbs, ascribed to King

and Disaster, and treat[ing] those Solomon, he prayed God “give Photo: Ben White/Unsplash two impostors just the same”. me neither poverty nor riches, In the New Testament, the but give me only my daily bread”. Apostle Paul tells the Philippian [Proverbs 30:8b NIV] If he had Corinthians: “Therefore I am by being fools for Christ’s sake; those who have more but those Christians that he has learned to too much, he might disown God well content with weaknesses, we are made free by becoming who have less. And enjoy the be content in all circumstances, (precisely what happened); if he with insults, with distresses, with servants; we live by dying to small pleasures every day brings. humble or prosperous, hungry had too little he might steal and persecutions, with difficulties, self. To glory in weakness may or satisfied. His secret is reliance dishonour God. This quest for for Christ’s sake; for when I am still seem counterintuitive Author – Barney Zwartz on God. simplicity as a key to contentment weak, then I am strong.” 2,000 years later, but it is In the first letter to Timothy, is common to many philosophies. [2 Corinthians 12:10 NASB] intensely liberating. Barney Zwartz is a Senior the author says: “But godliness Paul’s uniquely Christian The Christian worldview is In lockdown, achieving Fellow of the Centre for with contentment is great gain. insight, in total contradiction stuffed with paradox: believers contentment, as always, is easier Public Christianity. This article For we brought nothing into the of the Roman Empire’s values, are to conquer by yielding; we said than done but far from was originally published in world, and we can take nothing was in the paradoxical claim find rest under a yoke; we reign impossible. Focus not on what The Age and republished with out of it. But if we have food and that God reveals His power in by serving; we are exalted when we are lacking but on what we permission. clothing, we will be content with human weakness. He told the we are humble; we become wise have. Compare ourselves not with 14 arts

OCTOBER 2020 Gettys global in song

Christian hymn writers, Keith and Kristyn Getty have just completed their annual music worship conference, now known as Sing! Global.

Sing! Global was the most watched global worship event so far this year, streamed across the world in six languages to an estimated 250,000 people. It is in part supported by Christian Healthcare Ministries, a Christian not-for-profit who provides opportunities for Christians to financially assist those in need with healthcare. The four-day online event, from 30 August to 2 September, featured more than 100 speakers and artists including John Lennox, Andrew Peterson, Conrad Mbewe, David Platt, Bill Gaither and John Piper. Keith said the theme of this year’s conference was the centrality of God’s Word in the singing of God’s people. “I’m not sure we have ever had such anticipation for an

event like we have for this year’s PR Road Jersey Photo: Sing! Global conference,” he said. Keith and Kristyn Getty’s annual worship music conference, Sing! Global, was the most watched global worship event so far this year. “I think we will look back in 30 years at this moment in history as one of the most unique in, the hope we proclaim to every opportunities to sing of the corner of the world.” beauty and riches of our Lord, Access to the conference, and cry out together as part of including online concerts, behind Bold step for Perth singer His global church.” the scenes and artist interviews Kristyn added: “As we have will be available online for 90 shared in the same global crisis days after the event. Perth singer/songwriter, of 2020, we are more mindful of Keith and Kristyn are Chelsea Cullen has one another.” modern hymn writers. Keith had her praises sung “As God’s church all over was the first church musician the world, we want to embrace of the modern era to be following the release this particular moment, using awarded an OBE by Queen of the biographical every facility of technology Elizabeth II, for services to movie I Am Woman, and innovation available to us music and hymn writing. in which she voices the to more greatly illuminate the gospel hope we sing and share Author – John Igglesden songs of ’80s singer, Helen Reddy.

Chelsea sings ten of the 11 songs on the movie soundtrack, with the last song performed by Helen Reddy’s granddaughter.

Editor: Matthew Chapman EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING: Chelsea was recently Managing Editor: Andrew Sculthorpe Email: [email protected] interviewed by Sky News Production: Alissa Cass [email protected] Kate Chesson Mail: Baptist Churches host, Alan Jones in which she Vanessa Klomp Western Australia described working on the movie Creative: Peter Ion PO Box 57, Burswood WA 6100 Advertising: Sally Phu Tel: (08) 6313 6300 as “a big gig”. Distribution: Sally Phu Fax: (08) 9470 1713 “I auditioned over two years Editorial deadline: 5th of each month ago and spent the first year flying PUBLISHERS GENERAL DISCLAIMER back and forth from Sydney,” All the articles, comments, advice and other material contained in this publication are by she said. way of general comment or advice only and are not intended, nor do they purport to be the correct advice on any particular matter of subject referred to. No reader or any other person “My trips there consisted who obtains this publication should act on the basis of any matter, comment or advice of massive studio days, lots of contained in this publication without first considering and if necessary taking appropriate professional advice upon the applicability of any matter, advice or comment herein to their singing and sleeping like a log own particular circumstances. Accordingly, no responsibility is accepted or taken by the in hotels … it feels strange finally authors, editors or publishers of this publication for any loss or damage suffered by any party acting in reliance on any matter, comment or advice contained herein. having the film out after such a process, very surreal!” The Advocate is published on behalf of Baptist Churches Western Australia by imageseven. Tel: (08) 6500 7777 Email: [email protected] Chelsea attends Providence City, a church in Wembley, with her husband Sam where they both serve on the music team.

Author – John Igglesden Cullen Chelsea Photo: Perth singer/songwriter Chelsea Cullen voices the songs of Helen Reddy in

imageseven bcw J5190 the biographical movie, I Am Woman. coffee break 15

OCTOBER 2020 Little books Book of the year puts challenge thinking Christianity on trial

Dr Natasha Moore, author of the 2020 Australian Christian For the Love of God: How the church is better and worse than you Book of the Year, released a new book the day after her award ever imagined, published by the Centre for Public Christianity was announced. (CPX) has been awarded the SparkLit 2020 Australian Christian Book of the Year. The first two imprints of the person who might even be described as Re:CONSIDERING series, published by ‘your enemy’. The publication is an honest response to throughout the centuries, she found that Acorn Press, are The Pleasures of Pessimism “The literal meaning of the word the question: “Would the world be better off “the good outweighs the bad”, has grossly by Dr Natasha Moore and The Cost of compassion is to suffer with,” Costello said. without Christianity?” oversimplified the matter. Compassion by Rev. Tim Costello AO. “It means caring enough for someone to Written by Dr Natasha Moore, with “One of the things that I want people Dr Moore and Rev. Costello are both part share in their suffering – to join them in it. contributors John Dickson, Simon Smart to take away is that the ‘balance sheet’ isn’t of Centre for Public Christianity (CPX), It is costly.” and Justine Toh, this book accompanies the best way to approach this question,” which seeks to engage the public with a He also reminds us that all people can a series of documentary films released in she said. clear, balanced and surprising picture of both demonstrate compassion and receive 2019 by CPX. “To the extent that it’s a meaningful the Christian faith. compassion. The judges commentary included: question, I’ve become very much Dr Moore believes there is a “Human frailty and vulnerability are “this bold yet balanced appraisal of the convinced that the influence of Jesus has need to bring into focus some of the universal,” Costello said. impact of Christianity examines both the been much for the better – but I just think currents that we are swimming in, “It must be a two-way street.” best and worst of what Christians have that if you’re someone who’s suffered at often without even noticing that the The little books, easily read in an done over two millennia. Dr Moore and the hands of the church or of Christians, it current or the water temperature have afternoon, are packed with references to her collaborators confront the failure of doesn’t cancel that out.” changed. These little books are aimed philosophers, academics, Chicken Little, those who claimed to follow Christ but The judges chose from a short list of at challenging the reader’s thinking. social justice campaigners, killer jellyfish were responsible for the Crusades, the ten books. The list of authors included To reconsider. Maybe even to ask and even, a morality tale or two. Inquisition and the abuse of children.” former World Vision CEO and Baptist questions about whether these currents Minister Tim Costello’s memoir A Lot with represent how to do life together or The books are available from Koorong a Little. In his writing, Costello traces his whether to change streams. bookstores. journey from a personal evangelical piety Dr Moore believes that ‘cultural to his advocacy for the oppressed and pessimism’ has crept into the predominant ... I’ve become very leadership of World Vision. thinking of our society. As she has written, much convinced that Dr John Dickson’s book, Is Jesus “Once we stop recognising ourselves as History?, was also short-listed. Dr Dickson bound together in a common future, we the influence of employed the same archaeological and lose much of the power we have to shape literary methods used for the recovery of that future.” Jesus has been much other historical figures to demonstrate that “What is required, then – and what for the better ... believing in the historical Jesus and the an enervating pessimism makes all the biblical record of what He said and did as more difficult – is the constant renewal of being reasonable. energies for tasks that must be performed Associate Professor Stuart Piggin fresh in each generation, and repeatedly and Professor Robert Lindner were on within each generation. Which means that “The ease with which Christians the list again for their book Attending to what is required is the resistance of apathy, through the ages have ignored both the the National Soul, which is the follow-up and the constant renewal of patience, and teaching of Jesus and the dissenting voices volume to their 2019 winner The Fountain of hope.” of contemporary prophets is a caution. The of Public Prosperity: Evangelical Christians Like Dr Moore, Rev. Costello is not a authors also show how – when they obey in Australian History 1740-1914. pessimist. He has seen the best and worst Jesus – Christians have contributed to of people, and for him, a world without what is beautiful and beneficial in culture For the full list of the shortlisted books, compassion is a world that has totally lost and society.” visit sparklit.org its humanity. The Cost of Compassion In an interview with Hope 103.2FM in seeks to challenge readers about their own Sydney, Dr Moore reflected that in looking definition of compassion and what is the at the best and worst impacts of the church cost for becoming more compassionate. Rev. Costello acknowledges his

own contradictions when it comes to Photo: Acorn Press compassion. The ‘disease’ as he walks Two new books by Dr Natasha Moore past a person begging on the street. The and Rev. Tim Costello AO aim to complexity of showing compassion to a challenge readers’ thinking.

Wat ind o car does ess drie A A ristler Photo: SparkLit Photo: Australian Christian Book of the Year winner, For the Love of God, questions whether the world would be better off without Christianity.

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OCTOBER 2020 Without Jesus, I wouldn’t be who I am

Mention the name Evander Holyfield and the first few things that may come to most people’s minds are: boxing champion, the ear-biting incident with Mike Tyson or maybe even headlines from tabloids that pick apart the four-time heavyweight boxing champion of the world.

However, there is far more than Him the best way I know how,” what meets the eye when it comes he said. to Evander Holyfield; he is nothing Over the years, Holyfield has short of ‘the real deal’. shared how his faith in Jesus Born in Atmore, Alabama Christ has never failed him. He before his family moved and called wants to share this message with Atlanta, Georgia home, Holyfield other men to encourage them to – also nicknamed ‘The Warrior’ – be open and truthful about their overcame many obstacles in his faith, too. So, Christian Headlines life to which he gives all the glory asked him why he believes people to God. should come to Promise Keepers When Christian Headlines – an evangelical parachurch asked him why he’s decided organisation created for men to to be so outspoken about his encourage one another through faith, Holyfield didn’t have to fellowship and prayer. think twice. “Men should come together “Because, without Jesus, being able to open up and being I wouldn’t be who I am,” he able to be truthful … because you responded. have to be truthful to overcome Holyfield went on to credit things,” he responded. his mother and grandmother Holyfield said he never gets for showing him tough love and tired of people asking questions always encouraging him to call on about the infamous ear-biting the name of Jesus. incident during a boxing match “They [his grandmother and with Mike Tyson. He uses it as an mother] kept reminding me, opportunity to share a pertinent ‘you’ve got to ask Jesus to help part of the gospel. Simply, “God you,’” he recalled. wants you to forgive”. He is steady His faith in God and having in his conviction that “I wouldn’t a family that demonstrated be who I am if I hadn’t been the example of relying on through what I’ve been through”. Jesus set the foundation in his life that enabled him to not Author – Maina Mwaura only overcome obstacles and adversity, but to stay positive. Maina Mwaura is a contributor No matter what obstacles he for christianheadlines.com. This has encountered – not even his ten article was originally published losses that he refers to as ‘setbacks’ on 5 March 2020 and is kindly – Holyfield insists that he tried to republished with permission. stay positive because God should be reflected in his actions.

“I have a purpose to represent Hutchins/Shutterstock Kathy Photo: God and I’ve got to represent Boxing champion Evander Holyfield shares how his faith defines him.

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