Is Christmas Pagan? DEBUNKING SOME COMMON CHRISTMAS CONFUSION 16
NEWS ADRA SAMOA RESPONDS TO DEADLY MEASLES OUTBREAK 5
ADVENTIST RECORD | DECEMBER 21, 2019 ISSN 0819-5633
editor’s note
holidays and sacrifice
The Christmas holidays are very important for me read and understand the loving Creator God. It took and my family. We do not live near each other so face- eight years before anyone accepted the message of to-face contact during the year is limited. But we make Jesus. up for this during the Christmas holidays. I think of their sacrifice and courage and the many The only time I have not spent Christmas with Christmases they spent away from family and friends, extended family was as a boy, as part of a missionary for the sake of Jesus and His good news. family, in Papua New Guinea. In those days the over- However, even these sacrifices pale into insig- seas missionaries only received a trip to their home nificance compared to the sacrifice of the One who country once every three years. This was one of the inspired them—Jesus. The biblical Christmas story small sacrifices we made as a family to see Jesus’ reveals that Jesus was God in every way—eternal, all messages spread among the people of Papua New powerful, all knowing, ever present, just, but most of Guinea. all, loving. This year I walked the Kokoda Track in PNG with Humans on earth had rebelled and needed someone an ADRA group raising funds for The 10,000 Toes to overcome the tragic disease of sin that led to eternal Campaign to stop Type 2 diabetes in the South Pacific. death. Someone needed to live above sin and conquer Most people know the Kokoda as an iconic walk made death. So Jesus came, just as everybody else comes famous by the Australian soldiers who eventually into the world, as a baby—but a baby who would save defeated the Japanese along this track in the latter the world from sin and death. He gave up all of heaven part of 1942. However, the first foreigner to walk the and the close association with the Godhead to be one track was Fijian Seventh-day Adventist missionary, Peni of us. He was born like us, but as our Saviour—that is Tavodi. why Jesus brings “joy to the world”. When Seventh-day Adventists came to PNG in 1908, Luke 2:10,11 (ESV) records, “Fear not, for behold, the country’s governing body had already assigned land I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all areas and people groups to the other churches—no the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of territory was available to Seventh-day Adventists. After David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.” further insistence, Seventh-day Adventists were given I spent those Christmases in PNG with my dad, the Koiari people, based on the Sogeri plain and living mum, brother and sister, in visiting areas of the country in the mountains behind. where we had not been before and where God had What is now known as the Kokoda Track was the brought new people groups to Jesus. And I climbed Koiari highway through the jungle. At the time these the Kokoda Track this year with my son and daugh- people were cannibals, they practiced sorcery and were ter-in-law. I have never been abandoned by my family, very hostile to others. As I climbed the steep mountains nor been lonely at Christmas, but, best of all, I have a over roots and rocks, slid down the muddy drops and hope and a future beyond sin and death because Jesus crossed the treacherous fast mountain rivers I thought became a human and conquered of Tavodi and the Australian missionaries with him, these issues on my behalf. I thank such as Septimus Carr (and his wife) and G F Jones God for the Christ of Christmas (and wife). who enables us to be adopted back As a small group, these missionaries conquered the into God’s family forever. treacherous terrain and entered hostile villages with Jesus’ message of peace. They worked in healing— Glenn townend prayer, health teaching and basic medicines to eradi- SPD president cate disease—and teaching the children to count and /SPDpresident
senior consulting editor graphic designer noticeboard adventist media glenn townend linden chuang [email protected] locked bag 1115 senior editor template designer subscriptions wahroonga nsw 2076 australia jarrod stackelroth theodora pau’u [email protected] + 61 (02) 9847 2222 assistant editors noticeboard + 61 (03) 5965 6300 cover credit maryellen fairfax julie laws mailed within australia and felicity thompson abn 59 093 117 689 copyeditors letters nz $A43.80 $NZ73.00 other “Image of ‘San baby’, part of vol 124 no 25 tracey bridcutt [email protected] prices on application. the God of Hope photography kent kingston news & photos website project, Immanuel.” melody tan [email protected] record.adventistchurch.com
december 21, 2019 | Adventist record 3 news adventist fire solomons school needs water Brett Partridge/Jarrod Stackelroth “Orange is a fresh, youthful and Jones Adventist Academy materials to the Solomons until creative colour,” according to graphic (Solomon Islands) is facing a after Christmas so the best solution design specialists Canva. severe water shortage after loggers is to raise funds to purchase tanks “It has the warmth of red and the optimism of yellow, and it commu- destroyed a dam on a neighbouring and guttering from Gizo or Honiara.” nicates activity and energy and property. They are hoping to provide 20 encourages socialisation. Orange Brett and Christine Partridge, 3000L tanks, and guttering. The looks and feels fresh and healthy and members of Kellyville Adventist tanks cost $A750 each and the can even stimulate appetite. And Church (Sydney, NSW), discovered guttering will be around $A5000. because it is very easy to see, it is this dire need while visiting the Although there is no budget used to catch attention and signal isolated Adventist secondary school available, ADRA has opened an safety.” with Hills Adventist College students account to help with this project. Orange is the colour of one of in October. “If you can provide an early my favourite animals—the tiger. It’s The school, located on the Christmas present to a school with a colour that fills me with joy when north end of Vella Lavella Island, a great basic need it will mean so I see a beautiful sunset or trees in relied on the dam to supply all the much,” said Mr Partridge, who is autumn. And now orange—specif- school’s drinking and washing water supporting the school through the ically a shade of orange known as for 450 young people. After the Solomons Education fund. “Adventist Fire”—has become a first dam was destroyed, teachers ADRA will provide tax-deductible significant part of my job. You see, built a makeshift dam, but recent receipts. To support the project, one of my tasks is to roll out the heavy rains created a landslide that contact Kylie Humble at ADRA South Pacific Division’s identity destroyed the new dam. Australia. project, which includes the distinc- “We have taken tive orange signs that many of you would have seen outside our local first action to install a churches and conferences. The diesel pump to pump signs are helping to catch people’s grey water from a attention and raise awareness of the spring for all ablutions Seventh-day Adventist Church. and washing,” said Mr While we previously had a myriad Partridge. “Because of logos, colours and designs, we there is plenty of rain now have consistent branding. The we need to install aim is to present a strong and clear tanks ASAP. We are identity so that the Church can be unable to transport Jones adventist academy in solomon islands. more easily recognised by members of the public. We are excited at the many ways the new branding is being embraced san equal first for cancer care around the South Pacific. Along leisa o’connor with the signage, it is being used on Cancer services at Sydney service, care planning and coor- stationery, websites, social media, Adventist Hospital have been dination, complications, follow-up t-shirts, banners and flags (see rated significantly above the NSW and support. Hospital CEO Brett identity.adventistchurch.com for average across eight key perfor- Goods said the results confirmed resources). To me it seems fitting that our mance measures, a result equalled the remarkable care provided by the colour is “Adventist Fire”. It reflects only by Campbelltown Hospital in San Integrated Cancer Centre team. our calling to be disciples for Jesus, south-western Sydney. to be “on fire” for Him. As we head More than 11,000 cancer into the new year, let it be our patients receiving services at burning desire to grow our identity over 44 facilities across NSW in Christ as we look were surveyed for the Bureau forward to His soon of Health Information and return. the Cancer Institute of NSW Outpatient Cancer Clinics Tracey Brdicutt Survey 2018. Patients rated SPD Communication the poon day infusion centre at the san. director their experience of access to
4 Adventist record | december 21, 2019 adra samoa responds to deadly measles outbreak tracey bridcutt ADRA Samoa staff are working moega and Faleolo, all possible with In light of the closure of local tirelessly in response to the deadly funding from ADRA Australia, ADRA schools, Samoa Adventist College measles outbreak in the country. New Zealand, ADRA International and cancelled all end-of-year functions More than 60 people have died as a the New Zealand High Commission. except for the school’s prize-giving result of the outbreak—most of them “We are blessed to serve, especially ceremony, which has been postponed children. In response to the crisis, the when we enter the wards and see the until January 16. Samoan government declared a state suffering,” said ADRA Samoa director Measles outbreaks have also recent- of emergency and launched a compul- Su’a Julia Wallwork. “The nurses and ly been reported in Fiji and Tonga. sory mass vaccination campaign. The doctors are doing their very best and “Please keep the people of Samoa, government also closed all schools and putting in long hours. We are only Tonga and Fiji affected by this out- banned children from public gather- playing a minor role in comparison.” break in your prayers,” Mr Young said. ings. ADRA South Pacific director Greg Young said ADRA Samoa, with its extensive experience in emergency responses, has been providing support to the medical teams and the many thousands attending vaccination cen- tres by providing food at the centres. Instead of heading to church on Sabbath, November 23, ADRA Samoa staff delivered packed lunches to medical staff at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole (TTM) Hospital in Apia. They were also asked to extend the meals adra samoa staff delivering packed lunches to assistance to the hospitals at Leulu- medical staff at the tupua tamasese meaole hospital. women’s ministry pioneer honoured for outstanding achievement tracey bridcutt A pioneer of women’s ministries in Avondale University the South Pacific Division has received College, where she set a special honour. up the first counselling Dr Carole Ferch-Johnson was award- service on the campus. ed the Woman of the Year for Out- She also served as a standing Achievement by the US-based chaplain and pastoral Association of Adventist Women. She counsellor at Sydney was presented with the award at a Adventist Hospital for special ceremony in Loma Linda, Cali- 10 years. fornia, on November 16. Despite retiring at “I feel honoured for having been the end of 2000, Dr selected to receive this award,” Dr Ferch-Johnson has dr carole ferch-johnson (far right) with other awardees. Ferch-Johnson said. “There is, in my continued to support nomination, a validation for the work young women in ministry. Six years ago tablish belief in themselves to achieve I have done, especially for its more she was appointed by the Australian their goals,” said Dr Ferch-Johnson, challenging aspects.” Union Conference to the Ministerial who now lives on the NSW Central Dr Ferch-Johnson was the first Association with a special focus on Coast. “After a rough beginning, it director of the Women’s Ministries de- nurturing female pastors. This then gives me a great sense of hope to partment for the South Pacific Division grew to include other unions in the see the Church more fully accept the (SPD) in 1995 and has played a signif- Division. ministry of our female pastors and to icant role in mentoring young women “I have been thrilled to see ordinary see them do an incredibly good job in in ministry. She is a former lecturer at women grow in confidence and es- ministry.”
december 21, 2019 | Adventist record 5 highhot court topics ruling hands vatuvonu adventist hiGh school back to the church Tracey bridcutt
The Seventh-day Adventist Church government currently appoints in Fiji is giving praise to God following all teachers and administrators a decision by the High Court of Fiji that for schools in Fiji. returns management and control of Fiji Mission general secre- Vatuvonu Adventist High School to the tary Pastor Joe Talemaitoga Church. welcomed the judgement. High Court Judge A L B Brito- “It’s a good victory,” he said. Mutunayagam handed down his “We praise God for the court’s vatuvonu adventist high school. judgement on November 22 in the decision and declaration.” civil proceedings initiated by the Fiji The Mission Executive Committee say on the appointment of staff. government’s Ministry of Education will now consider the next steps for Meanwhile, Pastor Talemaitoga is against Vatuvonu Adventist High Vatuvonu, which has closed for the also giving thanks to God after Fiji School and five trustees of the holidays. Classes resume on January National University (FNU) approved Seventh-day Adventist Church in Fiji. 13, 2020. three Adventist final-year medicine The judge declined the Ministry He thanked the many people who students—Etuate Logaivau, Matelita of Education’s application to take had supported and prayed for Vatu- Waqatabu and Brandon Talota—the over management and control of the vonu (on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second right to sit their final exam after sunset school, thereby handing the school largest island) since the government on Sabbath, November 23. back to the Church. Further, the commenced legal proceedings against Fiji Mission worked with FNU to judgement held that the Ministry of the school and the Church on April 15. provide logistics support, including the Education must appoint a principal The orders blocked the Church’s ability provision of meals and transport for that is “acceptable to the Church”. The to run the school, including having any supervising university staff.
6 Adventist record | december 21, 2019 avondale goes green and lean news grabs brenton stacey/Gabrielle Nappi Initiatives to improve electricity rescent fixtures to energy efficient LEDs. consumption and waste management— The first three of a four-stage process some of which students suggested—are to upgrade the air conditioning in the saving Avondale money on energy bills library is complete, resulting in a more and reducing its environmental impact efficient system that cools the air more by decreasing total food waste and consistently. Timers now control other increasing recycling. air conditioners on campus. “I’m chuffed,” said the university The installation of 840 solar panels on albania hit by earthquake college’s vice-president (finance) Kelvin the roofs of the library, the cafeteria and At least 26 people have died after Peuser. “It’s great to see an outcome the Ellen G White Memorial Building is a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck that’s good for the environment and for generating the electricity Avondale uses Albania on November 26. More than 650 people were injured. President our bottom line.” during the day. And a renegotiation of of the Seventh-day Adventist Church The New South Wales Government’s Avondale’s contract has reduced elec- in Albania, Leo Espana, has called Energy Savings Scheme provided a tricity rates by an estimated 12 per cent for prayers. Church members are financial incentive to upgrade lighting (from $A315,000 to $275,000) this year. reported to be safe, however there has been extensive damage to build- in selected buildings such as the Chan Students enrolled in the Environ- ings and houses, especially in the Shun Auditorium and the residence halls mental Issues unit this past year are city of Durres.—Adventist Review on the Lake Macquarie campus. The partly to thank for the replacement of upgrade is a switch from inefficient fluo- single 240-litre general waste bins with dual 240-litre general waste and commingled recycling bins on campus. The bins are housed in new metal-framed shelters, for which the students suggested locations. Mr Peuser welcomes recom- mendations from staff and students women uplifted in ministry about how to reduce the environ- The Trans European Division recently held a “Women in Ministry” retreat Zoey-Elise Watson (Left) and her Environmental Issues mental impact. “Joint ownership of lecturer Dr Jason Morton (Right) with the new bins. for female pastors, Bible workers the issue is important,” he said. and administrators in the region. The weekend (November 15-18) was intended to create “breathing space” to rejuvenate, authentically fulton graduates destined for excellence share struggles and support other women in ministerial roles across the tracey bridcutt Division.—TED News “Destined for Excellence” was the received the Paul Cavanagh Award for theme of this year’s Fulton College most outstanding academic achievement graduation, held on November 24 at the in Theology. Nadi, Fiji, campus. The graduation was an opportunity Celebrations ensued as 139 students to farewell Fulton principal Dr Glynn graduated, including the first 16 grad- Galo, who is retiring at the end of the uates of the new National Certificate year, and to introduce his successor, Dr in the Teaching of Technical Vocational Malcolm Coulson, currently the principal Education and Training (TVET—Level 4) at Hills Adventist College in Sydney. course. The Fiji government requested books on beaches Fulton College offer this course, aimed at Between June and August, liter- ature evangelists sold more than strengthening TVET teaching in Fiji. 11,000 books to people visiting the Three special awards were presented: Adriatic coast in Montenegro from Kalesi Kalele (Fiji) received the award Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina. for most outstanding student in Educa- The success is due to Adventist publishers in Belgrade, Serbia, tion; Lui Yarakei (Vanuatu) was named translating the books into Serbian, a the most outstanding student overall in widely spoken language.—TED News Theology; and Herehia Hanere (Tahiti) dr glynn galo (left) with dr malcolm coulson.
december 21, 2019 | Adventist record 7 hot topics nzpuc grapples with retention and nurture jarrod stackelroth Membership nurture and retention successful initiative that is also very was a major focus at the New Zealand simple is Pray for Five, which has Pacific Union Conference (NZPUC) seen engagement from local church end-of-year executive meetings held in members as a simple commitment to Auckland. pray for and encourage five people in With five out of every 10 Adventists their sphere of influence. leaving the Church in the region (higher Church administrators admit that baptised into community than the global average of four), this while the problem is large, they are A recent study published in the is an issue the NZPUC feels strongly committed to addressing it head on. Journal for the Scientific Study of about. “In a way, high member losses are Religion has found that American The figure came out of NZPUC not the problem, they are a symptom,” teenagers who undergo the rite secretary Graeme Drinkall’s report and said Pastor Victor Kulakov, NZPUC of baptism are not more or less religious than their non-baptised included losses through deaths. “If discipleship ministries leader. “Instead counterparts by their mid-twenties, you don’t replace people who die, the of focusing on a bandage approach we but are 30 per cent more likely to church dies,” said Mr Drinkall. are encouraging a wholistic process of remain affiliated with their religious “Our retention rates are very re-visioning.” faith community.—Christianity Today concerning,” said NZPUC president “If we’re going to make disciples and Pastor Eddie Tupa’i. “As we try to keep them in, the Word of God must be understand this, we are actively encour- at the centre,” shared Pastor Jean-Noel aging our missions and conferences to Adeline, NZPUC’s ministerial secretary model and create healthy, safe environ- for the French territories, in response ments for church and community.” to the report. “We need to make This concern was addressed in the disciples not converts.” Pastor Adeline conference and mission reports from requested the report be shared more North New Zealand (NNZC), South New widely than the executive committee so choosing pro-choice Zealand (SNZC), Cook Islands Mission that all church ministers are aware of The pro-life organisation “Save the (CIM), New Caledonia Mission (NCM) the issues and able to begin addressing Storks” has released the results of a new study, which found that and French Polynesia Mission (FPM), as them in their areas of influence. more than 50 per cent of American the respective presidents shared exam- NNZC president Pastor Ben Timothy Christians are now pro-choice. In ples and strategies on how their region agreed. While not all churches in his contrast, only 25 per cent of Amer- was combatting the issue. Conference are on board, there are ican evangelicals said that abortion should be illegal in all circumstances, NCM president Pastor Felix still good things happening. Some of with only 42 per cent believing that Wadrobert reported how the Noumea the strategies Pastor Timothy talked life begins at conception.—Relevant church is being set up as a model about being implemented are invest- church within their small mission. He ment in children’s ministry, monitoring described some of the challenges, and and following up absentee members, how there needed to be reconciliation showing youth are valued despite and healing within church communities imperfections by providing a safe before new initiatives could flourish. context and giving them responsibility SNZC has addressed the challenge in evangelism. by starting a church plant for university the mental health climate students in the city Mission Australia’s Youth Survey of Dunedin. Many Report 2019 has found that mental students disengage health is the greatest concern for from church as they Australia’s youth. Surveying more than 25,000 teenagers (15-19), move away from where mental health ranked highest (36.2 they have grown up, so per cent), closely followed by the SNZC president Pastor environment (34.2 per cent) and Mike Sikuri shared how equity and discrimination (24.8 per cent). Environmental concerns have this and other initia- tripled since 2018.—SBS tives were tailored to stem the flow. One PAstor Ben Timothy (Left) presents the NNZC report.
8 Adventist record | december 21, 2019 flashpoint
avondale christmas Avondale School and Watagan gc visits solomons Park (NSW) hosted their General Conference general vice Woman of the year Community Christmas Carols on president Dr Guillermo Biaggi Seventy people attended a December 1. More than 4000 and associate treasurer Pastor “Country Bonanza” 60s-plus people attended to hear perfor- Brent Burdick visited Solomon weekend at Tui Ridge Park (North mances by 2016 X-Factor winner Islands following their attend- NZ) from November 22-25. Guest Isaiah Firebrace, ABC Kids artist ance at the South Pacific Division speaker Pastor Justin Strauss beacon on the hill Nay Nay, local pop group JANEY year-end meetings in Sydney from Palmerston North Adventist Hillview church (NSW) has and former Avondale students (NSW). Arriving on November church spoke on John 15:1-11. installed a new high-tech sign now pursuing performing arts. 15, the pair visited the Solomon On Sunday, a mystery trip was that shines like a “beacon on the A community band made up of Islands Mission office and were arranged, surprising attendees hill” in the Morisset area. The Avondale School staff and friends greeted by the Honiara church with a “railcruising” experience. six-metre digital sign displays the led out in carols singing and the family at Maranatha Hall (Burns The seniors enjoyed riding in church’s name and the programs event was livestreamed to Face- Creek). Both men preached to a self-driven railcars along a 10km running there. The double-sided book, which attracted a further congregation of more than 5000 track through the Dansey Scenic sign lights up brightly at night. It 2000 viewers. Avondale School, people on Sabbath morning Reserve. The outing included was constructed by local church alongside Adventist Community and again at an AY meeting on lunch served on a paddle steamer members Theo Van Bezouwen, Services and Gateway Adventist Sabbath afternoon, where 1000 that runs on the nearby lake. The Glynn Rigby and Graeme Taplin. Church, donated $A2000 to the youth pledged their lives to Christ. weekend finished with a Western Church signage is part of the Rural Fire Service to go along The guests were also given a tour Country Bonanza banquet South Pacific Division’s identity with a further $1500 that was of the Hope FM radio studios and complete with a chuckwagon, project (resources available at collected on the night.—Avondale temporary Hope Channel televi- campfire and cowboy hats. identity.adventistchurch.com). School sion studio.—Silent Tovosia —Kirsten Oster Lundqvist —Mary Fedorow
sing noel raises $A5300 Wahroonga church (NSW) hosted “Sing Noel”, an evening of orchestral carol performances on November 23. have a Directed by Benjamin Milis and hosted by music director for Channel 7’s Carols in the Domain, Graeme Press, the news story? event raised $A5300 for “Eyes for India”, a charity that restores sight to the blind. Attendees enjoyed perfor- email it to mances by Opera Australia tenor Murray Mayday, and vocalists Jana Lombart, Emily Thomas, Sandra Entermann [email protected] and David Fuentes.—Record Staff
young achiever award winner four ordained and nine baptised revival for young adults Lorraine Ngewenya from Spotswood Hundreds of pastors and church members More than 60 young adults gathered for Adventist Church (Vic) won the Saward recently attended district camp meetings “Revive” in the Newcastle (NSW) region to be Dawson Community Service Award at the hosted by Morobe Mission (PNG). Four inspired by God and pray for revival. Held by Victorian Young Achiever Awards 2019. ministers were ordained by PNGUM ministerial NNSW Young Adults, the event featured three Lorraine is the founder of “Useful Link”, an secretary Pastor Cameron Wari during the TED-style talks presented by Morgan Vincent, organisation that addresses youth unemploy- meetings. The new pastors then baptised nine Camila Skaf and Rome Ulia on faithfulness ment and encourages personal development people. At the meetings, deputy governor of and spiritual revival. Praise and worship, and leadership. She has worked with more Morobe, Koni Iguan, also pledged K21,000 to special items and personal testimonies led than 2000 young people over the past two support PNG’s “Year of Evangelism” in 2020. the young adults to seek a closer and deeper and-a-half years.—IntraVic —Enock Kitum relationship with God.—NNSW News
december 21, 2019 | Adventist record 9 Faith beyond reasonable doubt
he timeless battle. The age-old struggle. And before raised to life. These first-hand witnesses were open to you think I’m talking about the war in heaven, I’m not. being questioned and cross-examined. Eventually Matthew, TThis is something else that knowingly and unknow- Mark, Luke and John would go on to write accounts corrob- ingly guides our lives and our decision-making; something orating the story of Jesus. However, for those in Corinth— that can have us split fairly down the middle. and for us sometimes in 2019—perhaps Jesus’ best mates Let me introduce you to our contestants: were in on the secret to hoodwink everyone with an elabo- In the corner to our left, ladies and gentlemen, we have rate made-up story! Or at the very least you may wonder if The Head! To the right is his fierce opponent, and tonight’s they are simply too biased to be reliable. heavyweight champion, The Heart! Is there enough evidence to believe and justifiably prove Isn’t that how it’s always been? Our hearts vs our heads? a risen Christ? Renowned American scholar Dr Darrell Bock Fact vs feeling? It’s a choice we’re daily asked to make. points us straight to the 5800+ different independent Greek Choosing to follow Jesus is much the same in many historical writings and 8000+ existing Latin manuscripts all ways. I’m just going to say it: being a Christian who believes confirming the story of the New Testament. That’s cool, but in an all-powerful, invisible God doesn’t honestly make so what? Is that enough evidence to base a whole faith on? much sense. There. I’ve gotten it off my chest. Well, famous thinker Plato can lay claim to just seven I choose to follow God because, as a teen, I was historical manuscripts. The ancient Greek philosopher Aris- convicted in my heart of His presence, power and love in totle boasts only five manuscripts. The history and account my life. But all around me in high school during my philos- of Julius Caesar, who needs no introduction, comes down to ophy class I was bombarded with opinions from my peers a total of just 10 reliable manuscripts. that what I quietly believed wasn’t rational, logical or true. But the New Testament alone boasts more than 14,000 It didn’t make “logical” sense to my peers that I believed in historical manuscripts! a bearded guy in the clouds, I didn’t work on Saturday and Jesus was alive. Jesus is alive. What He did then, and *gasp*, I didn’t eat bacon! what He is doing now is supported by more writings than I had no witty responses or memorised facts and stats any other person from antiquity. Jesus is the real deal. God in my back pocket—I’m no scholar! So I sat tight, trying to has empowered, encouraged and provided us with historical make peace with myself, though I couldn’t prove anything. evidence of Jesus’ work and life; evidence that is accepted That’s where the whole faith and belief aspect comes in. and supported by Christian and non-Christian scholars and Right? historians alike. I know I’m not the only one to have felt this small crisis The verdict is in and it’s unanimous: the head and heart of faith when asked for hard facts to “prove” God, and can finally be unified. This is the point where faith and fact where I would give anything for something “tangible”. In can shake hands. This is the moment when our head and fact this is no new struggle; Christians have been struggling our heart can put down their boxing gloves and hug it out in with this very same thing for nearly 2000 years. the ring, raising their hands in “unified” victory. The apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 wrote encourage- ment to a church in Corinth who were questioning and Be sure to subscribe to Waymaker.TV and watch this asking for proof that Jesus had indeed resurrected from the month’s What Do You Think episode entitled “Unanimous”, dead. They were seeking real evidence besides blind belief. a short video presentation where you will hear some of God never wants us to do anything without first using our the best scholars offer their thoughts and research on the brains to reason and think. He is the Creator of intellect, evidence that Jesus Christ did in fact rise from the dead. reason and logic, and He cares about our human search and need for proof that He actually exists. Natalia melville Paul immediately points those questioning to real life freelance artist and writer with a Bachelor’s degree in Film and TV witnesses who saw and talked with Jesus after He had been Production.
10 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 my ministry
young adults collaborate in nation’s capital
or Adventist youth and young entitled “Sundown Sessions”. Fitness.” For Mr Nolan and the lead- adults in Australia’s capital, “Sundown Sessions”—a culmination ership team, the reality of burn-out Fhaving a unified vision has trans- of street food, live music, keynote also impacted their ministry. Moving formed and expanded their ministry, presentations, hot drinks and lawn forward, they’ve learned that, rather and taught them many lessons along games—drew around 100-150 people than spreading the team thinly and the way. every night to the Mallee Pavillion at trying to juggle many different minis- “Nativ Co” is a collaboration the Exhibition Park in Canberra in early tries, it’s better to reduce the number between Canberra National October. of ministries and really do them well. Seventh-day Adventist Church (CN) “We were able to hire the pavilion “Overall, we are really stoked at and South Canberra Seventh-day [because] there was real buy-in and what we’ve achieved. But although Adventist Church (SC). Initially commitment from the leaders,” Mr we put a calendar together and tried envisioned by CN youth leaders, Nolan said. “We were granted money to space out [six different ministries], husband-and-wife duo Michael and from the local church via tithe rever- it was too much at once. We’ve stuck Madison Nolan, seven other youth and sion where 10 per cent of tithe from with the fitness program, the café and young adults from CN and SC united to the previous year can be used for Sundown Sessions, but the others establish the ministry. evangelism.” didn’t pan out like we wanted.” “We joined forces. CN was already More than 40 volunteers from the Heading into 2020, the Nativ Co running a café every Friday night church community helped out to make team are excited for what the future and SC was coming along, so it felt the event a success. There were 15 holds for this ministry, and are chal- natural,” explained Mr Nolan. different teams, from welcoming to lenging other churches to collaborate The ministries run by Nativ Co have photography, videography, café staff, and carve out their own visions, too. been intentionally designed to reflect stage design, programming, music and “We’d love to see this happen in its name. entertainment, follow-up and adver- more places than Canberra. If Canberra “‘Nativ’ means belonging for us,” tising. can do it with only two Adventist said Mr Nolan. “In God’s eyes we all “If you’re not using the church, churches in it, just imagine what could belong here, and we all belong to you’re missing out on a huge bucket happen if churches in a place like Him. So this is a group where we want of people with a shared vision,” said Sydney or elsewhere combined for people to feel at home.” Mr Nolan. “Most of the community the purpose of outreach,” Mr Nolan Drawing all of the existing ministries that came [to Sundown Sessions] encouraged. “You’d have so many run by CN and SC churches under one didn’t do so because of the radio ad or resources, huge things could happen!” brand empowered and motivated the Facebook event. Ninety per cent came leadership team. because one of our church members To see what Nativ Co is doing, visit Rebranding their Friday night café invited them personally. We had one their Facebook page. to “Nativ Café”, the team also runs a guy come along—my [wife] Madi’s Nativ Fitness group, socials, commu- best friend’s brother—because he was nity service, a Nativ Creativ program intentionally invited. He was really into maryellen fairfax and an annual week-long program fitness and he’s now a leader of Nativ assistant editor, Adventist Record.
December 21, 2019 | Adventist record 11 typos Worst biblical types of all time
1. “Thou shalt commit adultery . . .” (Exodus 20:14) 6. “Sin on more . . .” (Jeremiah 31:34) The 1631 edition of the King James Bible, The 1716 edition of the King James Bible encour- dubbed “The Wicked Bible”, accidentally misprinted aged readers to keep on sinning rather than urging “shall” instead of “shalt not”. The printers were them to “sin no more”. severely fined, and most editions were recalled and destroyed. 7. “In subjection to their owl husbands . . .” (1 Peter 3:5) 2. “Then Judas said to the twelve . . .” (John 6:67) A broken version of the typeface in the 1944 The 1610 Geneva Bible mixed up Judas and Jesus. edition of the King James Bible made the word own Instead of Jesus speaking to the disciples, Judas is appear as owl. Well, at least they would have been identified as the speaker. The 1613 King James Bible wise husbands? made the same error in Matthew 26:36, featuring a pasted-in slip correcting the “Judas” to “Jesus”. 8. “If the latter husband ate her . . .” (Deuteronomy 24:3) 3. “Christ condemmeth the poor widow . . .” (Luke The 1682 edition of the KJV forgot to add the h to 21) “hate”, making the latter husband look like quite the Although the parable should have painted Jesus cannibal indeed. positively with the word “commendeth”, the 1562 version of the Geneva Bible makes Jesus look a little 9. “Pay for peace . . .” (Psalm 122:6) bit mean. The first edition of The Jerusalem Bible contained the phrase “pay for peace” rather than “pray for 4. “And Rebekah arose, and her camels . . .” (Genesis peace”. Perhaps that’s why indulgences were so 24:61) popular in the Middle Ages? In the 1820 KJV Bible, “camels” replaced “dam- sels” so that it read, “And Rebekah arose, and her 10. “The parable of the vinegar . . .” (Luke 20) camels, and they rode upon the camels . . .”. What a Published in 1717 by Clarendon Press, the “Vine- balancing act! gar Bible” is filled with multiple errors, one of which is the “parable of the vinegar”, instead of the “par- 5. “Let the children first be killed . . .” (Mark 7:27) able of the vineyards”—hence its name. Or perhaps A KJV Bible issued in London in 1795 said children the wine just went off? One copy of this Bible version had to be “killed”, rather than “filled”. The latter is sold for $US5000 in 2008, but is estimated to be definitely more in line with Jesus’ character, we think. worth hundreds of thousands of dollars today.
12 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 A Digging in his word CHANGED With Gary Webster THE REMNANT AND 144,000
LIFE As there was a faithful remnant who worshipped God in Elijah’s ON time, so there is a faithful remnant in the end-time crisis over LIFOU worship. But what are the core characteristics of the end-time remnant? ean-Marie Hnamano is from the Read Romans 11:2-5; Revelation island of Lifou, New Caledonia. 12:17. JHe is 42 and was born a Catholic. Satan makes war against the The island of Lifou has a very strong end-time remnant of the woman’s religious culture: 40 per cent of the seed through the activities of a population are Catholic and 60 per beast from the sea and another cent are Protestant. from the land. Sadly, almost Jean-Marie became a drunk in his everyone worships the beast— teens. He was in a football team of and therefore Satan—except the youths who used to party all the time. want to wait any longer—he had a end-time faithful remnant, whom He eventually became a drug addict burning desire in his heart to give his John calls the 144,000 Israelites. who sold and consumed marijuana whole life to Jesus through baptism. Read Revelation 12:17; 13:3,4,8; with his friends and enjoyed worldly He was the first one to ask for 14:1-5; 7:1-4. pleasures. He didn’t really sleep well baptism in the new territory. We The 144,000 Israelites (code for at night, suffering lots of nightmares. were so happy about his decision remnant) are inscribed with God’s At one point he started to doubt the and determination to follow Jesus. seal or name, which means they existence of God. God was with him all along and are like Him. When God proclaimed In January 2018, my wife and I transforming him daily. He stopped His name to Moses, He described decided to settle on Lifou island with the alcohol, drugs and other worldly His character: merciful, gracious, another church member, Victorine, things and is growing to become a longsuffering, abundant in goodness and we started a group. It was very true disciple. and truth, forgiving and just. The challenging as we were the first He has influenced his friend Theo- end-time remnant are the same— Adventists on the island. We had a dore who also attended the Bible the most loving people on Earth. mini evangelistic campaign with my studies and asked for baptism. Read Revelation 7:1-4; 14:1; brother, Pastor Jean-Noel Adeline, They both were baptised on Exodus 34:6,7 who shared the good news for a June 29, the first two baptisms— The remnant are virgins who whole week. two pioneers of the Seventh-day follow Jesus everywhere, which Jean-Marie was invited to attend Adventist Church on Lifou island. means they are in love with Him the meetings by his cousin Marie- Here on this island people are and therefore faithful to Him. The Helen. He was touched by the afraid to leave their religion because if reason is obvious: Jesus, the Lamb, message and never missed any they do, they will be rejected by their has redeemed and cleansed them meetings. After the evangelistic community and even their families. with His blood. What about us? Are meetings he accepted all the truth Today Jean-Marie and his friend we loving to all, like God? Is Jesus he discovered in the Bible, including Theodore are true disciples and number one in our life? Is our love the seventh-day Sabbath. He has not deacons in our group of 15. They are seen in faithful obedience to Him missed a Sabbath since. free from their weaknesses and are and His prophets? Do we live under We did deep Bible study and I was growing every day with Jesus. the grace that flows from Calvary? blessed to see Jean-Marie accepting I invite everyone who reads this the truth. More than that he obeys testimony to please think of them in Hittite seal of king God’s commandments. your prayers and the island of Lifou. tarksnawa. LIKE GOD’S Almost at the end of the series END-TIME SEAL, ANCIENT SEALS of Bible studies, a miracle occurred. danick adeline CONTAINED THE NAME OF THE Jean-Marie told me that he didn’t pastor on lifou island, New Caledonia. KING.
December 21, 2019 | Adventist record 13 Family
discipleship and family life
s newlyweds, my husband ever was going wrong. But, over the made progress, married life gradually Darius and I met with Pastor next few years, I came to understand became a lot less bumpy. AAdrian Craig, the president of that the ugliness that bubbled up But then our children were born. the conference where my husband out of me each time we bumped up Those character flaws that I thought was about to begin his first ministerial against each other was not because of were gone seemed to return with a job. After the initial pleasantries and what he had done or said, but because vengeance. More than that, I learned congratulations, Pastor Craig asked of what was inside of me. I had more flaws than I’d realised! us, “Did you know that God created As I slowly learned to take respon- As my children grew from infancy marriage for the purpose of character sibility for my flaws, my character to toddlerhood, I came to see how growth?” was formed in new ways. I gradually lacking in love, joy, peace, patience, As a 23 year-old woman, I’d never learned to manage my anger more kindness, goodness, gentleness and thought of marriage in those terms— appropriately, to be less perfectionistic self-control I really was. but I soon discovered that he was and judgemental, to be more empa- I would have despaired, except right. thetic and to cut my husband some that it was at this time that I joined In the first few years of our slack when he didn’t do things the a small group. We’d just moved to marriage, each time Darius and I way I did. I came to see that marriage a new town, and, in my effort to encountered conflict, my default was indeed an opportunity for char- connect, I reached out to a church in response was to blame him for what- acter refinement and, as I slowly my neighborhood and asked if there
14 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 was a women’s group I could join. Jesus and become more like Him, for in my small group all those years ago They informed me that, indeed, there the benefit of others.” wore no masks. And while I wanted to was a group within walking distance Let me unpack this a little. speed up my formation, they under- of my new home. So, on Wednesday Discipleship is a process of learning. stood that it was “not the work of a mornings, I would bundle my babies How do we know this? Because the moment, an hour, or a day, but of a into a double stroller and walk the word translated “disciple” in the lifetime”.5 Consequently, they felt no short distance to meet with a group New Testament is mathetes, which shame about the shortcomings of their of women from all walks of life and is derived from the Greek word “to lives. several different denominations. learn”. Thus, a Christian disciple is one There’s one last piece of my defi- I remember my first meeting—as who is learning to follow Jesus. nition: Christian discipleship must be the only Adventist in the group, I As we learn to follow Jesus, to for the benefit of others. As I learn thought I needed to put my best “abide with” and “remain in” Him to love and follow Jesus, I also learn foot forward, to be a witness to my (John 15); and as we “gaze on [His] to love others (Matthew 22:37-39). Adventist faith. However, I soon beauty” (Psalm 27:4), we recognise This begins in my family: when I grow discovered that the women in this how unlike Him we are and how in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians group did not wear masks. Instead, much we want to become more like 5:22,23), my family benefits; when marital woes, parenting woes, in-law Him. Over and over again, the New I learn to manage my anger without and other inter-personal woes were Testament underscores “formation” sinning (Ephesians 4:26), my family all shared in very raw and very real or “transformation” as the goal of the benefits; when I learn to express my ways, and then bathed in prayer. Christian life (Romans 6:6; 12:2; sexuality in God-honouring ways As I attended this group for the 2 Corinthians 3:18; 5:17; Galatians (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5), my family next two years, I witnessed Christians 2:20; 4:19). benefits; and so on. But it also extends carrying each other’s burdens and I love the way Ellen White described to my relationships with those beyond gently restoring those who confessed this: “To restore in man the image of my family, particularly with those who their weaknesses (Galatians 6:1,2). His Maker, to bring him back to the need to know and experience the Although I did not learn to be quite perfection in which he was created love and grace of Jesus. As I learn as vulnerable as others in the group, . . . this is the object of education [or to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, I did learn that I could share some of discipleship], the great object of life.”1 and as I learn to be changed by Him, my flaws and challenges and still be I also love that Ellen White I also learn to participate in and be loved; that when I shared a personal describes this process of formation as committed to His mission to the world or family-life burden and asked for a lifelong journey, one that “cannot be (Matthew 4:19). prayer, the burden seemed to lighten; completed in this life, but that will be I still have a long way to go. I’m still and that my need for character growth continued in the life to come”.2 too focused on my own needs and was less discouraging in the context of As we face the changing circum- desires too much of the time. But I this authentic Christian community. stances of life across the life span, know the work that God has done in In retrospect, I now see that my we are given new opportunities to be my life. And I know that God’s work in experiences, both in my family and in formed in His image. As this statement my life and in the lives of others—my the many faith-based small groups I’ve reveals so profoundly: family and my faith community—is a been a part of since that time, have “[Family life] can reveal just how life-long process. So I can live without been experiences of discipleship. much we need to become like Christ. pretence and without shame, and I Some people I’ve met consider About the time our children are raised, can be patient with myself and with discipleship to be “just the latest life surprises many of us with enlarged others, because I know His work in us buzz word”. Others have told me that prostates, diabetes, aching backs and is not finished yet. the word “discipleship” is not in the breast cancer. Our married children Bible, and therefore unbiblical. And divorce and move back home. Resent- 1. Ellen White, Education, p 15,16. yet, as I read the New Testament, I ment, disappointment, and many 2. Ibid, p 19. 3. Bill Hull, The Kingdom Life, (2010), Colo- am convinced that the concept of negative emotions that we believe rado Springs: NavPress, p 110,11. discipleship was central to the life and were gone return with a rage. What 4. Eugene Peterson, A Long Obedience in ministry of Jesus and the apostles. becomes so powerfully true is that all the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant While there are many definitions of events and circumstances form us into Society, (2000), Downer’s Grove, IL: InterVar- sity Press. the term “discipleship”, most of them Christ. And that formation takes place 5. Ellen White, Acts of the Apostles, a helpful depiction of this New Testa- throughout life.”3 p 560,61. ment construct, the definition that When I finally understood this truth, most resonates with me is this one: that discipleship is a life-long journey, dr edyta jankiewicz “Christian discipleship is the life- “a long obedience in the same direc- family ministries, discipleship ministries long process of learning to follow tion”4, I understood why the women team, South Pacific Division.
December 21, 2019 | Adventist record 15 Christmas
Is Christmas pagan?
ommonly referred to as, “The most wonderful time Some say that December 25 is connected with sun of the year”, Christmas sees an increase in gener- worship. The winter solstice—when the daylight is Cosity, families and friends gathering together, and shortest in the Northern Hemisphere—falls on December Jesus celebrated. Yet some Christians have difficulty with 21 or 22 in our calendar. It is never on December 25. If this day. one were to celebrate the daylight becoming longer, they In the mid-19th century, a Protestant minister, Alex- would do so on December 22 or 23. Babylonians studied ander Hislop wrote a book called, The Two Babylons, in astronomical movements meticulously and predicted which he compared the Roman Catholic Church to ancient solstices. They did not need to wait several days till Babylon. In his zeal to prove such a connection, he December 25 to figure out that the daylight was getting jumped over a few facts on several occasions.1 longer. The idea of Christmas being pagan was one such leap. The pagan celebration of the Unconquerable Sun Protestant preachers since have perpetuated several (Sol Invictus) on December 25 was instituted by Roman myths that need to be examined. Emperor Aurelian in 274 AD. The Mithra connection to that day was first recorded in 336 AD by Philocalus, who December 25 added it to his Codex-Calendar in 354 AD. But the Chris- It is claimed that December 25 was a celebration of tians commemoration of the birth of Jesus on December Nimrod or Mithra. This claim cannot be supported as 25 was prior to all this. The earliest record discovered so ancient calendars do not perfectly align with our modern far is from 202 AD.2 This means that Christians were not calendar and the Babylonian one certainly does not. This influenced by pagan dates. Christians chose December 25 is because the months in most ancient calendars were based on the Integral Year concept. According to Jewish determined by a lunar cycle which is, on average, 29.5 tradition, a prophet’s lifespan is exact in number of years, days. Twelve such cycles give 354 days in a year, which meaning that a prophet dies on the anniversary of their is around 11 days short of a solar cycle. Our modern conception. Christ was considered to have died on March calendar year is also short, but only by a few hours. We 25, so it was thought that this was the day of His concep- bring it in line with the solar cycle by adding an extra day tion. Adding nine months from conception to birth results every four years. In a similar way, some ancient calendars in a birth day of December 25. This Jewish tradition does were adjusted periodically to line them up with the solar not have biblical support, but it did provide the basis upon cycle. The Jewish calendar does this by adding an extra which early Christians used to celebrate Christ’s advent month every few years. Alignment with the solar cycle is on December 25. The Christian celebration predates necessary for the Jewish calendar as it is tied to agri- pagan celebrations on that day by at least 70 years. cultural events. Because there are different methods of bringing calendars in line with the solar cycle, a particular “Christmas” day on an ancient calendar would not be the same day in Some people get hung up on the term “Christmas”. our calendar every year. If an ancient pagan festival like This, of course, is only an issue for English speakers as Mithra’s birthday happened to fall on December 25 one other languages refer to the celebration in different ways year, it will most certainly fall on a different day in our with different meanings, such as “Birthday”, “Holy Night” calendar the following year. or “God’s gift”. The name “Christmas” comes from the
16 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 Latin words for “Christ” and “sent”3. It reminds us of the Temple during Hanukkah (John 8:12) and declared to Jesus’ prayer to the Father, “As you sent me into the everyone that He was the Christ—the Messiah, and the world, I also have sent them (the disciples) into the world” Light of the world (John 9:5)! (John 17:18). “Christmas” is, therefore, a very fitting term Celebrating the Advent of Jesus at this time of the year because this is what is celebrated; Christ sent as a human is both accurate and appropriate. It is the time when He on a mission to save us and His sending of us to spread it was conceived and when the miracle of light occurred. to the world. Mandate Biblical support Since the Bible does not oblige us to celebrate Christ’s The question arises: is there any biblical support to birth does that mean we cannot or should not celebrate celebrate Christ becoming a human in His mission to save it? The Bible does not tell us to celebrate Hanukkah and us at the end of December? There is certainly evidence to yet we have a record of Jesus going to the Temple then. point that way. It is unlikely that He was born at the end He certainly did not shun a celebration on the grounds of December, but it is likely that He was conceived then. that it was not mandated by the Bible. In Luke 1:5, Zechariah, John the Baptist’s father, is In our ever-increasing secular Western society, mentioned as a priest of the course of Abijah. Priests did Christmas is that time of the year when non-believers are not serve continually but took turns serving for one week, relatively open to hearing about the story of Jesus. This is twice a year and also during the Pilgrimage Feasts. There why Christian author Ellen White insisted that Christmas were 24 divisions of priests and they rotated from noon “can serve a very good purpose”.5 And in her Christmas on Sabbath until noon the following Sabbath (1 Chroni- address she stated, “Although we do not know the exact cles 24:10). The course of Abijah was the eighth course day of Christ’s birth, we would honour the sacred event. with the first service occurring at the beginning of June. May the Lord forbid that any one should be so narrow- It is then that the angel Gabriel told him that when he minded as to overlook the event because there is an returned home his wife Elizabeth would become pregnant uncertainty in regard to the exact time.”6 (Luke 1:11-13).4 Zechariah returned to his own house and As Christians we should use every opportunity to share Elizabeth became pregnant shortly thereafter (v 23,24). the good news of Jesus in words and deeds. Ellen White That course would have completed duties around June 9. put it best when she wrote, “God would be well pleased if Depending on her cycle, Elizabeth would have conceived on Christmas each church would have a Christmas tree on somewhere between June 10 and July 10. Elizabeth would which shall be hung offerings, great and small, for these have started her miraculous cycle at that time, which houses of worship.”7 would have resulted in John being conceived around the It is good to see churches place food gifts for the poor end of June. Six months later, the Holy Spirit came upon under a Christmas tree. ADRA makes it easy to decorate Mary and Jesus was conceived (v 26,36). This means that trees at church and home with their Christmas gift orna- Jesus was conceived around the end of December. ments. See adra.org.au/thrive for more details. This is a special time of the year. It marked the dedica- Jesus calls us to be the light of the world (Matthew tion of the Temple and the miracle of light. In 167 BC the 5:14). As we celebrate the first Advent of Jesus, let us Seleucid King Antiochus Epiphanes conquered Jerusalem, keep it focused on Jesus by sharing His love with others, desecrated the Temple, stopped the regular ceremonies, particularly the neglected. This is the best way to cele- offered swine’s flesh on the altar and sprinkled swine’s brate Jesus. blood in the Most Holy Place. Three years later, in 164 BC, Judas Maccabeus, having won a stunning victory 1. Hislop does not quote original sources, but carefully picked over the much larger Seleucid army, came to Jerusalem sympathetic secondary sources. 2. Hippolytus of Rome, Commentary on Daniel, Book 4, 23.3. and re-consecrated the Temple. This occurred during the Donatist Christians also celebrated on December 25 prior to AD 311. winter solstice. The darkest day of the year witnessed the 3. “Missa” comes from the past participle of “mittere” (to send) in beginning of the miracle of the light. When they went to Latin. The word “Mass” also derives from “missa” where it is used to light the Temple menorah, only one bottle of the conse- dismiss the congregation. 4. This did not occur during the second course of Abijah as it will not crated lamp oil was found. This oil, which normally lasted line up with the census at the time of the birth of Jesus. According only a single day, continued to burn for eight days until to archaeologist Sir William Ramsay, Roman censuses were held in more oil could be produced and consecrated. Hence, the autumn, meaning Jesus was conceived in December. Jewish celebration of Hanukkah, which means “to dedi- 5. The Review & Herald, December 9, 1884 6. The Review & Herald, December 17, 1889 cate”, also became known as the Festival of Lights. 7. The Review & Herald, December 11, 1879 As Mary was celebrating the rededication of the Temple, which had occurred 160 years earlier, her body was dedicated to the Lord and literally became the temple Emanuel Millen of God. Jesus, the Light of the world, was conceived. Pastor of Yarra Valley and assistant Pastor of Warburton Towards the end of His ministry on earth, Jesus went to Seventh-day Adventist Churches, victoria.
December 21, 2019 | Adventist record 17
Have your Say
CREATIVE COMBO Bravo! “The Creative Issue” (November 30) was an excellent reminder that to truly reflect the image of God, we have to polish our creativity. The combination of words and design reveals a talented team that obviously spent a lot of time assembling this issue. My congratulations. Stephen Chavez, USA
SILENT SCRIPTURES? Bible it seems obvious that THE BIBLE ALONE restaurants overseas which The question of women’s all leadership in the church In response to “Never serve vegan food and ordination has given rise to scene was meant for men Intended” (Have your say, stock many EGW books for much discussion, friction only. Who led the Israelites November 16) re the use patrons to read if they so and division. in the desert? Moses. Only of EG White’s writings in choose, as well as adver- If one is honest, it must kings (men) ruled after that. sermons. Recently I was tising church functions. be admitted that there is Who were instructed to using Google to look up We recently found a no definitive statement in care for the Greek widows’ some quotes of Ellen White vegan restaurant in Vietnam the Bible or the Spirit of ministration? Seven men. All and two that drew my run by a Buddhist family, Prophecy directly supporting disciples, tribe leaders, etc, attention were as follows: and one of the owners the proposition. men; women were given a “The Bible is our rule of proudly told us that he This whole problem supporting role. faith and doctrine” and “The also didn’t smoke or drink would not have arisen had In God’s eyes men and words of the Bible, and the alcohol, tea, nor coffee. we as a people heeded the women are equal in accept- Bible alone, should be heard If only all Adventist definitive instruction of the ance and value, but each from the pulpit.” churches and institutions Spirit of Prophecy as found have separate roles to play. Perhaps if those who and churches would offi- in Gospel Workers. The Why do women have the occupy our pulpits each cially stand for the Adventist injunction is: babies, not men, yet men Sabbath adhered to this lifestyle and ditch the tea “When questions arise provide the wherewithal to counsel, we Adventists may and coffee for visitors (and upon which we are uncer- produce the child? The roles once again be known as even for members), and the tain, let us ask, ‘What saith are different, but equally “the people of the Book”. meat at potlucks. the Scriptures’? and if the necessary to life. I believe Lawrence Lane, Qld Leo Hamulczyk, Vic Scripture is silent upon the maintaining God’s order question at issue, let it not for man as head of the ADVENTIST LIFESTYLE be made the subject of home, prime minister of the It was heartening to discussion” (GW. 314.4). country, etc, is God’s divine read “Ministry in Action” Note: Views in “Have your say” do not necessarily rep- Bill Miller, Qld plan. Changing this can only (November 30) about the resent those of the editors or lead to disobedience of Raymond Terrace Mission the denomination. Comments should be less than 250 words, MY OPINION God’s commandments and and their juice bar, which and writers must include their In my opinion all those expectations. If Adventists not only promotes the name, address and phone people who are supporting are meant to be people of Adventist health message, number. All comments are ed- ited to meet space and literary women’s ordination don’t the Book, shouldn’t pastors but also the spiritual requirements, but the author’s know their Bible well and elders be male only? message of the Church. original meaning will not be changed. Not all comments enough. Joan Kaa, NZ In my travels I have received are published. Throughout the entire encountered Adventist-run
December 21, 2019 | Adventist record 19 health
A VEGGIE CHRISTMAs: Healthy holiday your MENU GUIDE habits
If you’re getting ready for a sumptuous vegetarian Christmas spread but need a little help with the planning, here are some tasty tips to try for a very veggie Christmas:
• ‘Tis the season: Use what’s in season to inspire your menu. It will guarantee you PACE YOURSELF have wonderfully fresh produce that is If it’s just the one day of celebration, relax also better for your budget. Some veggies and enjoy—but consider to keep an eye out for are asparagus, carefully what you eat and drink on the days leading capsicum, avocados, sugar snap peas, up to it. A special day tomatoes and zucchini. For fruit, of course can sometimes turn into a week of dinners and there are Christmas cherries and berries, gatherings, so choose to summer stonefruits and tropical treats like eat moderately at each party. lychees and mangoes. • Be adventurous: Complement the traditional roast veggies with something more daring. Why not try a new cuisine, unusual ingredients like ancient grains or heirloom veggies like purple carrots? Alternatively, just mix it up when it comes to family favourites. Even the humble cauliflower can be roasted whole, served up as steaks on a bed of creamy puree, GET MOVING or chopped finely as cauliflower rice. If you find yourself eating far more than normal, An adventurous dish is always a great consider increasing your conversation starter. exercise and activity levels. Another tip is to • No need to miss the carve: Try a meat include activities at your alternative for a tasty roast with all the event (where possible) that don’t involve eating trimmings. Another great option for or drinking—for example, a hero dish that can be carved at the take your party outdoors to a park, lake or beach table is a veggie wellington or a savoury where you can be active. Rustic vegetable tartlets strudel. Banish boring veggies—this plant powered • Budget beans: Grains and legumes are recipe is a delicious combination of roasted a delicious and budget-friendly way to vegetables encased in a flaky pastry. The bulk up dishes and make sure everyone tartlets are great for easy entertaining and reaches that button-popping level of full will bring the wow and nutrition pow to the reserved for Christmas Day. Grains make dinner table. a great side to soak up a sauce, beans are ideal for a mash or puree and both can be Find this recipe and hundreds added to almost any salad. FOCUS ON FRESH more at: • Plant-based stuffing: A delicious mix Choose a menu with lots of grains, spices, dried fruits and nuts of nutritious fresh foods Australia: sanitarium.com.au/recipes rather than relying on New Zealand: sanitarium.co.nz/recipes is perfect to stuff into your veggies like processed treats. For capsicum, mushrooms, eggplant and example, dessert could be a fresh fruit platter tomatoes. featuring fresh seasonal fruits. Most importantly, just breathe and remember no matter what you serve up, it is sharing a meal with family, friends and /sanitariumaustralia loved ones that really matters. /sanitariumnz
20 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 The perfect Christmas gift MUMS AT THE TABLE MAGAZINE
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served the Lord in NZ, Cook recognition for his diligence, love She is survived by her children, Islands,Samoa and Tonga. He was and giftedness from his family, Linda Donovan, Calvin and Peter Anniversary a much-loved father and pastor church and community. He wa a (all of Rockhampton), and Kerrin MARTIN. Pastor to all who knew him. faithful worker for his Lord and Warrener (Brisbane). Hazel was Ken and Elaine Willam Arama, William Strickland now rests under his Creator’s a fourth generation Seventh-day Martin cele- watchful eye. Adventist, her grandparents and brated their 70th Auguste, Yves Adrian Craig, Alwin Hilton great-grandmother being charter wedding anniversary on 10.11.19 Desire, born 9.9.1926 members of the Rockhampton in the revolving restaurant, in Mauritius; died HOLMES, Elizabeth church, formed in 1894. In her Crowne Plaza, Gold Coast, with 3.8.18 in Blacktown (nee Jackson), born younger days Hazel was involved family and friends. They were Hospital, NSW. On 2.9.1948 he 11.11.1922 in in children’s Sabbath school, married in the Mullumbimby married Rosedange (Rose). He Wynyard, Tas; died in the church choir and as a church, 16.11.1949, by Pastor is survived by his wife (Kings 26.8.19 in Wynyard. Betty was deaconess. George Parker. Two of the original Langley); daughters, Lyne Lorens predeceased by her son, Dale Ray Hobbs wedding party were in attend- (NSW), Lisbeth Bramwell (Qld) and daughter, Cherie. She is ance, Elsa Wyborn (Apostoloff) and Myrna Freeman (Bendigo, survived by her children and Thomsen, Dr Clayton Frederick, and Yvonne Chilcott (Were). Ken Vic); and sons, Helio (NSW) and children-in-law, Barry, Harvey, born 25.5.1936 in Davenport, and Elaine were blessed with Ted (Qld). Yves was a devoted, Deris and Maurice, Joanne and Iowa, USA; died 18.11.19 in three children, Jenelle Dowling, affectionate husband and a kind, Dale, and Michael; grandchildren; Maleny, Qld. He was predeceased Steve and Dale; seven grandchil- compassionate father. His bark and great-grandchildren. Betty by his first wife, Pat. On 15.4.18 dren; and 13 great-grandchildren. was worse than his bite, for even was well known for her knowl- he married Marlene. Clayton is They served in ministry for 27 though he was very strict, he edge of history of the Wynyard survived by his wife (Maleny); years, seven as youth director for was a fun and understanding dad area. The Jackson family were the son, Timothy (Narrabeen, NSW); the Trans Tasman Union Confer- with an amazing, infectious laugh. first lighthouse keepers on Table and daughter, Tracy (Dapto). ence and seven as South Pacific An electrician and a fireman by Cape back in 1888. One of her Clayton was a loving and greatly Division youth director. In retire- trade, he also served in the Peace favourite hobbies was gardening. loved Christian gentleman who ment Ken served for significant Corps at a very young age. A Betty’s favourite Bible text was loved his Lord, in whom he had periods as volunteer pastor in faithful and dedicated follower John 14:1-6. Betty learnt about complete confidence. He also Singapore, Israel and Lord Howe of Jesus, he reflected the love of the Adventist message through a loved his family and many friends Island. Ken and Elaine reside Jesus wherever he went and was tent mission held in Wynyard. and will live on in our hearts and on the Gold Coast and faithfully well loved and respected. Karl Winchcombe memories till Jesus returns. attend Gold Coast Central Church. Eddy Johnson Scott Wareham, John Rabbas KRANZ, Pastor HAILEY, Ian Donald William, born Russell Maurice, ADVERTISING 10.3.1937 in Trundle, NSW; died born 3.8.1925 in Wedding 22.11.19 in Maroondah Palmerston North, LAMBERT– Hospital, Ringwood East, Vic. New Zealand; died 24.10.19 Sabbath School PowerPoints KALINOWSKi. On 2.10.1961 he married in Cooranbong, NSW. On 500 per cent greater attention Bevan Lambert, Barbara, who predeceased him 30.1.1946 he married Jessie and retention. Free downloads: son of David on 28.6.16. He is survived by King, who predeceased him.
22 Adventist record | December 21, 2019 noticeboard
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