But again, when they cry out, God responds, breaking their chains and bringing them into the light.
Psalm 107 is a passage I keep rereading, fascinated by the patterns and similarities between the four main stories depicted there.
Telling stories makes me tick. I love it. I’ve always enjoyed reading stories and some days I pinch myself when I realise that I actually get to tell stories every day. I truly believe testimonies are a non-threatening way to share the power of God at work in our lives with those who may not know Him yet.
And the passage starts by imploring, “Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe” (Psalm 107:2).
The verse above is found in the opening lines, which establish what the psalm is all about. God is redeeming people from all four points of the compass. Then from verse 4, we get four stories, almost archetypal, models of how God can redeem and restore broken humanity. The stories are universal, introduced by the word “some” (ie some people).
In each of the four “testimony” poems, within the larger chapter, we have a description of the conditions the individuals find themselves in, before a turning point comes upon them—a moment of desperation—and they cry out to God. In each, God responds, each time breaking down and distinctly addressing the problems brought up in the opening lines of the poem.
Then there is a call for the reader/listener to give praise to God for “his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind” (this phrase is repeated all four times).
So let’s look at each story in more depth. The first story depicts those who “wandered in the desert wastelands” and suffered hunger and thirst. Immediately the children of Israel come to mind. These individuals may know God but lack direction and community and their basic needs are not being met. God leads them to a city, and provides food and water for them.
The next group are prisoners in chains and darkness. This group also know God. The text says they have rebelled against His commands and plans. They have made choices that took them into labour and hardship. But again, when they cry out God responds, breaking their chains and bringing them into the light.
The next group may not know God initially. The passage describes them as fools (“A fool says in his heart, there is no God” Psalm 14:1) and they are suffering sickness due to their sin. They also refuse to eat. Yet eventually, they too cry out to God and He heals them and rescues them.
The fourth group are interesting. Their story is a bit longer and includes more description. This group are merchant sailors. You may think they’re well off, comfortable. And yet, the glory, the majesty and the dangerous power of the ocean—“the works of the Lord”—alerts them of their place in the universe and their need. They too cry out to God. And, you guessed it, He answers them. The story has strong links to the sailors in Jonah. Again, while they may not have known God (or needed God in the midst of their wealth), by the end of the section, they are proclaiming God to the assembly of the people. They use their influence to share their story about God’s rescue.
Maybe you can relate to one or more of the four stories. I know I can. There have been times in my life where I have felt lost and without answers and God has given me direction and sustenance. There have been times in my life when I’ve been comfortable and in control, and God has reminded me of His power and majesty and called me back into a right relationship with Him.
This chapter is worth meditating on. The final lines talk of God’s power to flip the status quo and bring change in situations that need changing.
No matter what we do, God can meet us where we are when we cry out to Him. And from that point, our lives will never be the same. So if you are redeemed, say so. Share your story so the world can know what God has done for you.
Nominating Committees
Glenn Townend South Pacific Division president
A General Conference (GC) Session year means potential changes in leadership in many levels of the Church—especially at the GC and their divisions and unions all around the world. The changes in leadership all occur through the process of the nominating committee. Most local church members know that every year or two there is a process to choose the local leadership of the church—elders, deacons, Sabbath School, Youth, Women, Pathfinders, etc. A selection committee chooses a nominating committee, approved by the church. This nominating committee fills all the various ministry roles needed. Time is spent in prayer seeking God’s will. Most people know those who they are nominating and voting for. The nominating committee is loosely modelled from what the apostles did in choosing a new apostle in Acts 1. The same process happens at the other levels of the Church all the way up to the GC.
The challenge is that people do not know those who are being nominated—unions have 20,000 to 600,000 members and the GC has 23 million. Those who are used to usual HR practices expect a job description, search committee, applications, interviews and recommendations. To help deal with this lack of knowledge at the GC nominating committee, the GC has asked all division and union people in elected positions nominated for a role to provide a brief CV-type document which includes their academic qualifications, their last five roles and at least five ministry achievements. The SPD does the same thing for all union and conference/mission people in elected roles. This means that at least people will have some knowledge about those who are options for various leadership roles.
For incumbents in the roles,the nominating committee is an ad hoc appraisal of the work that God has been doing through them. However, in the SPD we expect most of those incumbents to also go through a formal 360 appraisal process. Up to 10 people who work with the incumbent are asked to rate and comment on the major aspects of the person’s job description. My fellow officers and I went through the results of our appraisals recently. It was an affirming and challenging time. People recognised our strengths and these same people challenged us to improve our work with God.
As the worldwide Church goes through this process for many people please pray with me that God’s will be done here on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).
PNG members empowered to share their stories
Port Moresby, PNG | Reginah Harihi/Juliana Muniz
More than 70 church members, students and communication leaders in Port Moresby were equipped with practical tools to tell powerful stories during a series of interactive workshops from June 13 to 15.
Led by Adventist Record and Signs of the Times editor Jarrod Stackelroth, workshops were held across two events: Friday morning at Korobosea Seventh-day Adventist Church for local communicators and media teams, and a weekend program at Pacific Adventist University (PAU) open to students, staff and members of the wider community.
Workshop topics included the power of authentic storytelling, writing for Adventist news platforms, scriptwriting, and using digital media and AI strategically. Participants also engaged in hands-on activities designed to build confidence
and improve communication skills.
“I wanted to improve my communication and writing skills, especially in areas like storytelling, journalism and article writing,” said Yaméo Waki, a student at PAU. “The workshop was both insightful and engaging.”
Writing workshops are part of Adventist Record’s mission to empower church members across the South Pacific Division to share stories that reflect their faith, build a sense of community and strengthen the Church’s voice across the region.
“There are so many powerful stories coming out of Papua New Guinea,” said Mr Stackelroth. “Our goal is to help people feel confident to share their stories and that their experiences can inspire others when they’re shared with honesty and hope.”
King’s honour for humble servant
Wahroonga, NSW | Tracey Bridcutt
Dennis Perry, a long-time member of Wahroonga church, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his extraordinary service to some of the most vulnerable communities in Papua New Guinea.
The award, announced as part of the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours on June 9, recognises Mr Perry’s community work through Operation Life (formerly Operation Food For Life), a charity he cofounded in 1998 after witnessing people living and foraging for food on rubbish dumps in Port Moresby.
“I’m deeply humbled and proudly honoured,” Mr Perry, 77, said, giving “all the praise, honour and glory” to God.
“I acknowledge this prestigious award with our cofounder David Woolley, as a symbol of the collective efforts and testament put forth by incredible and extraordinary people I have had the privilege to serve with over many years.”
Inspired by Matthew 25:35-40, Operation Life offers food, clothing, compassion and the love of Jesus to “the least of these”—the hungry, the vulnerable, the destitute and the forgotten, including patients dying of HIV/AIDS and those
in prison. It also provides education for vulnerable and at-risk children. What began with just 20 students now has enrolments of more than 300 children.
According to Mr Perry, the mission is simple: to follow the example of Jesus. His desire is to be the hands and feet of Jesus, serving others in practical, life-changing ways.
Mr Perry hopes to encourage others to step forward in service. “You may not be able to change the world, but you can mean the world to just one person,” he said.
Despite recent health challenges, Mr Perry remains passionate and determined to continue his work of love and mercy.
Australian Union Conference president Pastor Terry Johnson congratulated Mr Perry and acknowledged his faithful service and lasting contribution.
“It’s a fitting recognition of his faithful service, tireless dedication and commitment to the values of compassion, integrity and community.”
Operation Life is a supportive ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific.
At PAU, more than 50 people attended the workshops.
OAM recipient Dennis Perry.
Mums At The Table releases new booklets
Wahroonga, NSW | Melody Tan/Record staff
Mums At The Table has published a new booklet aimed at providing parents with practical tips and information on raising children.
The booklet, The Screen Issue, is the first of a new series addressing tricky parenting dilemmas. Each booklet will feature a single topic and plans are to release a new booklet every six months.
“We decided to tackle the topic of screen time for our first issue because our research tells us it’s one of the major worries and struggles parents have,” said Melody Tan, project manager of Mums At The Table.
“The booklet is a mix of practical information and interactive content. Parents will not only learn how to effectively manage screen time, they can also utilise a checklist and a contract within the booklet as well.”
While Adventist parents will find the booklet content useful, Ms Tan said the booklet’s ultimate purpose is for churches and church members to share
them with the wider community.
“Some church members will remember the monthly Mums At The Table magazine from a few years ago. It was a very successful tool in sharing Adventist-influenced content with the community. Magazines were shared in doctors’ waiting rooms and used as giveaways at a variety of events. It helped introduce an Adventist ministry to parents in a very accessible and non-threatening way,” said Ms Tan.
“The hope is this booklet, and future ones produced, will have the same impact. We have deliberately kept the price point low—charging only the price to print and ship the magazines—to make that possible.”
Future topics include healthy lunchboxes, mental health care, sleep and literacy.
Churches interested in purchasing bulk copies of The Screen Issue can do so by contacting <hello@MumsAtTheTable.com>.
Sanitarium tops trust rankings again with Weet-Bix and So Good
Berkeley Vale, NSW | Record staff
Australians have once again declared Sanitarium Weet-Bix their most trusted breakfast food, marking the 13th consecutive time it has secured the title in the annual Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands survey.
And for the first time, Sanitarium So Good has been crowned Australia’s Most Trusted Plant-Based Milk, taking out top honours in the survey’s newly introduced plant-based milk category.
“We are thrilled with this endorsement from our consumers. So Good is now not only Australia’s leading plantbased milk brand enjoyed by millions every day, but it’s also Australia’s most trusted plant-based milk,” said Nicole Toby, senior brand manager, Sanitarium So Good.
Sanitarium introduced Australia’s first soy milk nearly 40 years ago and continues to lead the plant-based category with its dairy-free milk alternatives.
Meanwhile, Weet-Bix—a beloved household staple for nearly 100 years— continues its reign as the breakfast food Australians trust most.
“We’re honoured to receive this award for the 13th year in a row,” said Jessica Manihera, Sanitarium’s head of marketing and communications for Australia and New Zealand. “Australians young and old have long been proud to call themselves Weet-Bix kids and nearly 100 years after Sanitarium launched its now-iconic wholegrain cereal, it still represents simple, honest nutrition for the whole family.
“These accolades are a testament to the strong connection Australians have with our brands,” Ms Manihera added. “Whether it’s starting the day with Weet-Bix or choosing So Good for taste preference or a plant-based alternative, we are proud to be part of our consumers’ daily routines.”
Weet-Bix has been considered the most trusted breakfast food for 13 years.
The Screen Issue is the first of a new series addressing tricky parenting dilemmas.
Church reaffirms child safety commitment
The Australian Union Conference (AUC) has reaffirmed its full commitment to the Australian National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, recognising the moral, ethical and biblical mandate to protect children and ensure the Church is a safe, thriving community for all.
According to church leaders, the AUC remains focused on protecting the dignity and wellbeing of every child and vulnerable adult—a commitment “grounded in the sacred calling of Micah 6:8”. It is not only a legal duty, “it reflects God’s heart for justice, compassion and humble leadership”.
The Adventist Church in Australia aims to foster child safety by promoting transparent governance, risk management, education, and the empowerment of children and families, following the 10 national principles. According to church leaders, “While the Church has been vigilant on this issue since 2000, this marks a clear step forward in creating a church community where all are safe, heard and valued.”
On May 28, as AUC president Pastor Terry Johnson and the Executive Committee signed the Statement of Commitment to the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, he formally requested all conference presidents, church leaders, executive committees, church and school boards to:
Sign the Statement of Commitment to the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations; display the signed Statement of Commitment in the foyer or office of churches and schools; apply and integrate the principles throughout all aspects of church or school activities; promote a child-safe culture within your church or school; remind persons in board member or child-related roles who have not previously completed any of their Adsafe requirements, to do so. On engaging with this process, they will need to read and sign the new Code of Conduct. Those who have engaged with the process previously will be prompted to sign the new Code of Conduct at the same time as when their existing Adsafe Awareness training is due for renewal. Adsafe Awareness training is renewable every three years.
“This is not a box-ticking exercise. It is a spiritual and moral imperative,” Pastor Johnson said. “Our faith calls us not only to believe but to act—to create communities where children can flourish without fear.”
“We believe in a thriving church where every child is protected, every voice is heard and every leader is accountable,” said Adsafe general manager Pastor Michael Worker.
To learn more about signing the commitment, visit <adsafe.org.au>.
making headlines
Faith on film
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Montego Bay, Jamaica, held its first-ever film festival and symposium in May. The event used short films to highlight the Church’s mission, address myths and interpret doctrines, providing a space within the Church for creatives to evangelise through audiovisual methods.—IAD
Tokyo talks Creation
A conference held at the Tokyo Central Adventist Church (Japan) gathered nearly 400 people for a weekend of exploring Creation, science and faith. Ways of interpreting earth science data through a faith lens were introduced as participants explored the relationship between the biblical Creation account and the modern scientific explanation.—NSD
The café that cares
A new initiative, the Bread and Better Life Café, has been launched in Burleson, Texas, as a centre of influence within the community. Unlike a typical café, it includes multiple spaces for different purposes. The Social Room offers food and drinks, the Community Room hosts wellbeing workshops on topics such as physical and emotional health and the Nook provides a space for small groups. SU Record
The gluten illusion
Gluten is often the scapegoat for any gut issues, but recent studies show that many with a self-proclaimed gluten sensitivity may be following a gluten-free diet unnecessarily. Many experience the same symptoms regardless of their gluten consumption, and, exempting those with coeliac disease, gluten may not always be the problem.—The Guardian
Pastor Johnson signing the Statement of Commitment.
Ringwood, Vic | Tracey Bridcutt
Notes of growth
A string program introduced less than two years ago is helping revitalise Toronto Adventist Primary School (NSW), which was on the verge of closure in 2022 due to low enrolments. Led by principal Celia Moncrieff and a dedicated music teacher, the program has become central to the school’s growth. Every student is now learning a stringed instrument, with the school growing to 45 students and 17 pre-kindergarten children. On May 24, students showcased their progress with a performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria at Hillview Adventist Church in Morisset. Audience members were particularly moved by the youngest students playing quarter-size violins. “They looked like toy violins,” said one church member, “but the sound they produced was amazing.”—Mary Fedorow
Security milestone
Church leaders and guests gathered at Sonoma Adventist College, PNG, recently to dedicate a new 1.5 kilometre chain mesh fence, improving campus security and land protection. The small ceremony was held after the Sonoma Board meeting on May 29. Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM) president Pastor Malachi Yani offered a dedicatory prayer. The fencing was constructed by the works department of East New Britain, with some funding provided by Risk Management Service at the South Pacific Division. Support was also provided by PNGUM. The fence aims to provide a clear demarcation of the college’s property while enhancing security for students and staff. Principal Dr Jennifer Litau expressed gratitude to RMS and PNGUM. She said it was a miracle to have the fence erected in such a short time —Garry Laukei
Worship focus
Young adults from across New Zealand gathered in Christchurch from June 13 to 15 for Ignite 25, a weekend event exploring the theme “Heart of Worship”. Organised jointly by the North and South New Zealand conferences, the program featured sessions on creative expression, biblical foundations and lifestyle worship. According to North New Zealand Conference youth director Pastor Keli Pepa, the young adults were challenged to “step beyond passive routine and lean into an intimate, raw and personal connection with God”.—Plugin
Sauce and support
In May, Wahroonga church (Sydney, NSW) participated in an ADRA Blacktown food drive. Organised by the women’s ministries team, the aim was to collect 150 units each of pasta and pasta sauce. The project exceeded expectations: 262 of each item were donated. “Through this partnership with ADRA, our church family are delighted to make a difference in the lives of people who need it most,” said a church spokeswoman —Tracey Bridcutt
Professors among us
Four Fulton Adventist University College (FAUC) staff members have been recognised with the title of professor in a ceremony at the Trans Pacific Union Mission executive committee mid-year meetings, held in the Fiji Mission conference room.
Professor is the highest academic position and requires holding a PhD, undertaking research and high level academic leadership. This recognition comes after FAUC recently launched two academic journals.
Fulton’s new professors include Dr Ronald Stone, FAUC principal, Dr Tabua Tuima, deputy principal, Dr Limoni Manu O’Uiha, head of theology, and Dr Elisha Kwabena Marfo, head of research.
“FAUC has recently made strategic faculty appointments as part of our preparations to become a full-fledged university,” said Professor Stone. “These appointments directly respond to a major recommendation from the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA), which emphasised the importance of adhering to the Academic Ranking Policy outlined in our employment handbook.”
The AAA is an educational accreditation body operated by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists to ensure standards across Adventist education in schools, colleges and universities around the world.
“By strengthening our academic staff with qualified and experienced educators, we are committed to elevating our standards of teaching and research. This step is crucial in our ongoing journey toward university status,” said Professor Stone.—Jarrod Stackelroth
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Raising leaders
More than 680 church members gathered in Western Manus for a district camp meeting held from May 25 to 31, organised by the Madang Manus Mission (PNG). Hosted at Bundahei church, the program featured daily worship services and training sessions focused on local church leadership and youth development. According to Bundahei church elder Nathan Savon, the training emphasised the importance of preparing young people for leadership roles in the Church. “They were challenged to stand firm and lead with purpose, focusing on the message of Revelation 14 and the urgency of Christ’s soon return,” said Mr Savon.—Nathan Savon/Juliana Muniz
Nursing training boost
Pacific Adventist University (PAU) has signed a new agreement with Pacific International Hospital (PIH) to provide nursing students with hands-on clinical experience at PIH facilities across Papua New Guinea. The partnership, formalised in Port Moresby on June 2, will allow students to observe and participate in patient care in a range of departments, including outpatient, emergency and specialised services. “We’ve always wanted to work with PIH,” said PAU vice chancellor Professor Lohi Matainaho. “I believe we can do things a bit differently as a faith-based university working with a private hospital.” PIH operates hospitals in Port Moresby and Lae, as well as seven clinics around the country, offering students exposure to a wide spectrum of care settings. “Nurses coming to PIH for this training will see a bit of everything,” said PIH medical doctor Aamir Siddiqui. “Even though it’s a short program, the goal is for them to get a good overall idea of the typical steps and nursing care needed in each of these areas.”—Reginah Harihi
Convicting the devil-man
In 1956, Nelson Palmer was at the house of elder Ratu Meli in Korolevu, Fiji, when a tall, dark and handsome stranger walked in. In all appearances, this was a fine-looking man, except for the disconcerting and intense squint of his eyes whenever he talked to anyone.
Ratu Meli leaned over to Nelson and whispered, “This man is Patimo.” Nelson had been waiting to meet Patimo for a long time, and finally his opportunity had presented itself to talk to him.
Nelson had previously learned who Patimo was the local devil-man that individuals would come to when they or their loved ones were sick and dying. In exchange for money or gifts, the people believed that Patimo would talk to the devil and ask that their life be extended, and their health restored.
Nelson spoke up and said to Patimo, “Patimo, I would like to speak to you.” Knowing who Nelson was, Patimo sat upright and responded, “Say on.”
Now, it was customary in Fiji at this time that if you needed to say anything unpleasant or difficult, you were to say it directly rather than beating around the bush or trying to be tactful. The clearer the communication, the better.
Nelson said to Patimo, “Patimo, of all the people I have met in my life, I have never been so sorry for anyone as I am for you.” Patimo was caught off guard by this unusual statement and asked, “What do you mean?” Nelson continued, “Because of the fires of hell that are waiting for you . . . because the people around here regard you almost as a god. When they are sick, instead of their being taken to a doctor they are taken to you. And you take their whales’ teeth,
their money, and their yagona (kava), their cows and their horses. You are growing rich through the fear you are instilling into the people. And I want to warn you that unless you give up this devil business—oh, how sorry I will be for you!—the fires of hell will be waiting for you.”
Patimo only shrugged his shoulders and replied, “I don’t tell the people to come,” before walking out of the house.
The people in Korolevu and Draubuta, Patimo’s home village, regarded Patimo very highly. One day a woman came to the village in Draubuta and entered Patimo’s house, crawling up to him on her hands and knees with tears streaming down her face. She kissed Patimo’s feet and handed him presents, including a whale’s tooth, and begged him for her husband’s life.
The woman had originally come from Suva and had sent a message 65 kilometres over hills to bring her favourite devil-man to see her husband. The devil-man walked all the way from Suva but when he arrived, he told the woman that the spirit troubling her husband belonged to Patimo, and only Patimo could heal him—if he wished to do so.
Patimo accepted the gifts the woman offered to him, but made no promises. The next day the woman’s husband died.
At this time, Nelson was in Draubuta running evangelistic meetings there. Nelson was intrigued by the reaction this incident had on the people of that area. The community thought that Patimo had been selfish and unjust in accepting the gifts yet choosing to let the man die. The community firmly believed that Patimo was responsible for the man’s death, and Patimo faced significant
rejection and judgement as a result.
After a week of evangelistic meetings, among the handful of those who stepped out to accept Jesus as their Saviour was Patimo’s own son! Patimo’s daughter-in-law also became an Adventist. But this wasn’t the end. As a result of many other circumstances surrounding evangelistic outreach in the area, Patimo called together a meeting of all the people in the community and declared, “After the year-end I am no more going to be a devil-man; and if you people want to follow the right religion you had all better become Seventh-day Adventists.”
Through his family’s conversion and the community’s judgement, Patimo recognised the truth found in Jesus and confessed this truth.
This story was taken from Australasian Record, October 8, 1956.
Ratu Meli and his family. His wife is holding their albino son.
These girls at Fulton Missionary College know the joy of the Christian way of life. Not for them the fear and sorrow of the devil worshippers.
Accused but NOT GUILTY
How does one decide if a person is guilty or not guilty? In a court there are laws that govern decisions for justice and fairness. However, many decisions are influenced by what others think—even by the crowd!
Jesus was tried six times—three times by the Jewish authorities and three by the Romans—but not once was convicted of a crime deserving death. However, the crowd demanded His crucifixion.
What should Pilate do? Was it a right for Pilate to release Barabbas who was guilty of insurrection and murder? Was that the way to settle a case, and did it even follow common sense? Did the Jewish or Roman laws allow him to do this—release a man guilty of murder and convict a just Man guilty of no crime?
No-one in the judgement hall questioned Pilate’s decision. No-one asked whether it was just or sensible. The leaders and priests had lost their minds and were intent on killing Jesus. How would you have responded if there?
On January 8, 1992, I was arrested by the Daru Police in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. It was a very unpleasant experience. It was very stressful. I could not
eat. I appeared before the court on January 13, accused of being in possession of three high-powered guns without a firearm licence. Before the court I told the truth: I had removed the guns from criminals causing a nuisance in the town but had not been able to dispose of them before being arrested! I was found to be not guilty and set free!
The truth I revealed in court set me free. However, not with Jesus. The truth about Jesus as the Son of God and King of the Jews did not set Him free. Instead, He was sentence to death for the truth! The truth of the evidence revealed He was not guilty! Herod and Pilate both agreed— yet He was sentenced to death.
Why was Jesus sentenced to death? Should He have been released? But then, what would have become of the prophecy of Isaiah 53:3-5—that as a lamb He would be slaughtered? How would John the Baptist’s proclamation of Jesus being the Lamb of God come true? (John 1:29). And how would He crush the head of the serpent if He was not crucified? (Genesis 3:15).
Although not guilty, wicked men acted out of selfishness, greed and pride—and Jesus died on time according to God’s will as the remedy for our sins. Sentenced to die for the good of all humanity. Without knowing it, and acting to protect their positions, the time was right for Jesus to die.
Although the decision was not in His favour, Jesus knew His time had come to glorify God and to save the world. Pilate crucified Jesus, who was not guilty, to gain favour and hold his position, not knowing that Jesus had to die to accomplish God’s plan.
Jesus knew His time was up. “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer” (Luke 22:15). To be sentence to death was not a surprise to Him.
He knew He was going to suffer. He was prepared for it. “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). His death was not a surprise to Him, but a surprise to His followers. His advice to the women, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and your children” (Luke 23:28). No need to cry! Jesus was accomplishing something for all humanity.
Jesus was precise about His death. He would die and be resurrected to life again on the third day. He knew He would come back. He is a Lifegiver. Those who trust in Him will be resurrected. Jesus was giving hope to all humanity.
Leaders killed Jesus out of jealousy, pride, hatred and for position. Christians celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus which brings justification, peace, forgiveness, access to the throne of God and eternal life. Jesus died on time for all. We can sing, preach and teach about God’s death and resurrection. The death and resurrection of Jesus brings joy to our hearts.
Garry Laukei chaplain, Sonoma Adventist College, East New Britain, PNG.
So Good™ Sweet Potato (Kumara) Brownies
Surprisingly delicious–and delightfully simple! These rich, fudgy squares are full of chocolate flavour, made with naturally sweet mashed sweet potato (kumara) and our So Good™ Unsweetened Almond Milk.
Ingredients
¼ cup So Good™ Unsweetened Almond Milk
1 cup sweet potato, cooked and mashed
½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
¼ cup light flavoured olive oil
1 tsp vanilla essence
¼ tsp salt
½ cup oat flour–see first tip
½ cup cocoa powder, sifted
1 tsp baking powder
Tips:
• To make oat flour: pulse rolled oats in a food processor, for a minute or two, to a fine meal. Alternatively, replace oat flour with ¹⁄³ cup wholemeal or whole spelt flour.
• For an extra treat, sprinkle 1 tbs of vegan dark chocchips, or chopped walnuts, over batter before baking.
• Cooked sweet potato can be roasted or steamed. Remove skin and mash very well–or puree if preferred for a smooth batter.
Method
1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Line base and two long sides of a loaf tin with a strip of baking paper.
2. Combine So Good almond milk, sweet potato, sugar, oil, vanilla and salt in a large bowl. Mix well.
3. Add oat flour, cocoa powder and baking powder to the bowl. Stir to create a thick batter.
4. Spread mixture into prepared tin and smooth surface. Bake for 40 minutes, until edges have pulled away from the side of the pan.
5. Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to rack and cool completely before cutting. Store extra brownies in a container in the fridge.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
106 2g 6g 1g 11g
2g 28mg 81mg 1.3mg 250mg
Serves 12 Prep 10 Cook 40
Living with Gratitude and Grace
For many years, Gladys Waters has lived by the motto: “Be grateful, be thankful.”
Her journey with gratitude began when she discovered a book called One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp on the subject. As a talented photographer with a keen eye for beauty, Gladys was inspired to embark on a unique project: creating a photo book documenting 1000 things she was grateful for. The project took about two years to complete, and the result was a truly inspiring collection that has touched the lives of many.
Alongside being a devoted mother to Merilyn and Tony, a grandmother of five, and a beloved wife to Geoff, Gladys also dedicated her career to nursing. She worked in aged care and hospital settings, including cardiac,
pain management, and ICU wards. The year 2025, marks 60 years since Gladys graduated from the Sydney Adventist Hospital nursing school.
Since retiring, Gladys found fulfilment in spending five years assisting refugee children with their reading at a local school ESL class, working with them one-on-one. Although she loved the children and the children loved her, unfortunately, the pandemic forced her to step back from this commitment.
In 2016, following a routine blood test, Gladys was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a type of blood cancer. Since then, she has undergone chemotherapy every month, travelling to Brisbane for a seven-day treatment cycle. Despite this challenge, Gladys remains resilient, rarely
disclosing her condition because she doesn’t want anyone’s pity. Her faith is her strength, and she lives that belief every day.
Gladys has also served as a church elder for many years, always caring deeply about people and their wellbeing, with a special interest in supporting young people. She calls Springwood church her home, and it is very close to her heart.
Known for her cheerful spirit, Gladys begins every prayer with praise and thanksgiving, believing that a grateful heart leaves little room for anxiety or stress. Her example is a powerful reminder for us all to embrace gratitude in our own lives.
Kristiina Somerville freelance writer, Springwood church, Qld.
What My Black Car Has Taught Me About
the Christian Life
Black vehicles have been the choice of colour for heads of state and royalty around the world. From presidential motorcades in Washington, DC, to the gleaming limousines of monarchs in London, black has signified authority, dignity and an aura of solemn power. Why black? Because black
announces itself, demands respect and refuses to hide anything.
I have never aspired to owning a black vehicle. It not only failed to rank on the bottom of my list of acceptable colours—it never made the list at all. I don’t need a colour to announce anything about me. And I figured that black would not be the
easiest colour to maintain anyway.
So after a long search for a vehicle, I finally found one which ticked all the boxes—except it was black. It wasn’t long into ownership before I admitted defeat to what I now realise is an established truth: a black vehicle defies any attempt to make it truly clean. I had ignored
my own instincts about black, as well as the experience of other black car owners. They warned that black was more than a colour—it was a commitment. One person went so far as to say that black is not a colour—it is a career! No matter how meticulously I detail that vehicle, the paint reveals every speck of dust, faint watermark and hairline scratch that would otherwise be invisible on a lighter colour. Clay bars and ceramic coatings are helpful to a point. Yes, from a distance, black can look impressive. But upon closer inspection, it reveals the truth. It falls short of being spotless. Every. Single. Time.
With white or silver, or for that matter almost any other colour, a car can go weeks without a wash. It looks clean, even when it’s not. But with a black car, nothing is hidden. It’s as if the paint itself is a confessor, unwilling to let anything go unnoticed.
Oddly enough, that ongoing battle with my car has become a spiritual teacher. I’ve come to see that owning a black car is not just a lesson in car care—it’s a parable of the Christian life. This is the Christian experience. The closer we come to Christ—the Light of the world—the more we become aware of the stains in our hearts. Just as a black car under full sun reveals every blemish, the life exposed to Christ’s righteousness reveals our every flaw.
Like the daily battle against dust on a black car, the Christian life is one of constant washing, refining and surrendering to God. But our
hope doesn’t lie in our ability to scrub harder or in applying advanced techniques and methods. It lies in Jesus the true Refiner who does the work of cleansing within, “. . . for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fuller’s soap” (Malachi 3:2).
Fuller’s soap is no gentle cleanser. It is abrasive, deep-acting, used to purify garments and remove deep stains. So too, Christ’s work in our hearts is not surface-level. He gets into the hidden places, the dark corners, the areas we’d rather not see ourselves.
Ellen White rarely used italics for emphasis in her works. Yet in a single paragraph of Steps to Christ (p47) are two italicised words: how and choose. The first asks a question: How do we surrender? The second provides the answer: Choose to serve Him by giving Him your will. Choice is the ultimate expression of the human will.
And therein lies the secret to a life of victory in Jesus Christ: the interplay of human and divine cooperation. Our part is to choose Him. God’s part is to work in us—to purify and sanctify.
All too often we usurp God’s role by attempting to clean and obey apart from Him. No wonder black refuses to yield to our efforts to achieve the desired lustre, free from imperfections. Black becomes free of defects not through our scrubbing, but by a miraculous, supernatural and transformative act of God.
Ellen White says, “In Christ there is power to overcome every temptation. By His grace we may gain the victory over every evil tendency and desire.”1
“Holiness is not the dress we put on, but the life we live. It is not the outward appearance, but the inward transformation.”2
Every Christian should own a black car at least once—not for the aesthetic, but for the daily parable it teaches. It trains your eyes to see what others miss. It humbles you. It reminds you that cleanliness is not a one-time event but a constant process. And it points to the reality that only in the presence of Light are the deepest stains revealed and healed.
White cars may look clean longer, but black cars teach you honesty. They teach you to look beneath the surface. And they whisper, day after day, “You need more than a rinse— you need a Redeemer.”
The Bible is full of imagery contrasting sin-stained garments with the purity God offers:
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).
“They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:14).
“To her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints” (Revelation 19:8).
Our “black car” lives—flawed, dusty, streaked—can become radiant by God working in us. His unlimited power then works in us to will and to do according to His good pleasure. We do not clean ourselves. We are cleaned by the One who gave Himself for us. The works He does in us will inevitably compel us to action:
So I keep washing that black car. I keep sighing at the dust and streaks that re-appear an hour later. No, actually milliseconds later. And I thank God that He’s using my car to preach to me each time I lay eyes on it.
I also thank Christ that one day He will replace this car—and this flesh— with a nature that is not bent towards sin. The good news is that we don’t need to wait for that trump to sound before He envelopes us with the white robe of His righteousness. That is there for the taking—right now! I can stand clad in His pure character, not because I scrubbed hard enough, but because I allowed Jesus to wash me thoroughly.
Until then, I press on—dusting, polishing, repenting, trusting. And driving my black car with new eyes.
1. Ellen G White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol9, p182.
2. Attributed to CH Spurgeon.
Dr Robert Granger writes from Bunbury, WA.
TRUST IN GOD, NOT THE PROCESS
In today’s world, the phrase “trust the process” has become ubiquitous. It’s heard in sports, business, personal growth and even among Christians. It suggests that adhering to a structured plan guarantees success. While this mindset may be effective in secular settings, it creates a theological dilemma. According to Scripture, no process is sovereign—only God is. Trusting a process rather than God shifts our faith from the divine to an impersonal system, encouraging reliance on human effort over God’s will. Christians often confuse the two, but trusting the process is not equivalent to trusting in God.
The problem with trusting the process
The concept of trusting the process implies that a set of actions or steps inherently leads to a favourable result. However, the Bible instructs believers to place their trust in God, not in human strategies or systems. Scripture warns against relying on methods or systems as if they were infallible. Verses like Proverbs 3:5,6, Jeremiah 17:7,8, and Isaiah 41:10 make it clear: trust in the Lord. When we trust the process over God, we replace divine wisdom with human logic and effort.1
Jeremiah 17:5 cautions, “Cursed are those who trust in mere mortals and make flesh their strength, whose hearts
turn away from the LORD.” It is dangerous to put our faith in anything other than God. Human strategies and systems can’t guarantee success and certainly cannot replace God’s sovereignty over all things.2 King David, in Psalm 146:3, echoes this truth: “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.” Our trust must be in God, not in a process or human effort.3
This could be another of Satan’s philosophical attacks on biblical truth.
The biblical model: trust in God, not in a process
Rather than placing faith or trust in an abstract system, the Bible directs us to trust in God Himself. Proverbs 3:5,6 calls believers to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” There is no mention of “trusting the process” here; instead, we are urged to actively depend on God. This is not about following a method but about submitting to God’s will.4
Isaiah 55:8,9 further emphasises this: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God’s wisdom and plans are far beyond
human understanding. While human processes may fail, God’s ways are always perfect.5 Trusting in a process suggests control; control over human dealings, human sufferings and problems, human thoughts and human ways. As believers, we are encouraged to recognise that God’s thoughts and ways exceeds the excellence of human will.
The danger of trusting a process over a person
Placing trust in a process can lead to a transactional view of faith—believers may start thinking that if they follow a specific set of actions, they will receive guaranteed results. This reduces faith to a formula rather than a genuine relationship with God. Many fall into the trap of thinking: if I do X, then God will do Y. This mindset turns faith into a mechanism for manipulating outcomes, instead of recognising it as trust in a personal God who acts according to His will, not human expectations.
Job offers a powerful example of true faith in God’s sovereignty. Even amid immense suffering, Job declared, “Though he slays me, yet I will hope in Him” (Job 13:15). Job’s faith was not in a predictable process of suffering and restoration, but in God’s character, regardless of what he faced. This is the heart of biblical faith—trusting God Himself, not a system or sequence of events.
The Spirit of Prophecy also reminds us, “You are selfish, exacting and overbearing. This ought not to be. Your salvation depends on your acting from principle—serving God from principle, not from feeling, not from impulse. God will help you when you feel your need of help and set about the work with resolution, trusting in Him with all your heart.”6 Trust in God is not about self-reliance or following a formula, but about relying on His divine principles for guidance. Failing to abide in God’s principles risks our salvation. Trust the process is a baseless, non-scriptural phrase.
Biblical examples: trusting God over process
Scripture consistently shows that God is not bound by human processes or timelines. When God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 12:1-3), the fulfilment of that promise was far from straightforward. Abraham’s journey was filled with trials and waiting. If he had placed his faith in a predictable process, he would have given up. But instead, Abraham trusted in God’s promise, even when everything seemed uncertain (Genesis 12–22).7
Joseph’s life was another example. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused and imprisoned, Joseph faced numerous hardships. Yet, he declared in Genesis 50:20, “Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good.” Joseph did not place his trust in the process of suffering and restoration; he trusted in God’s sovereignty to bring about good from evil.8
Even Jesus did not rely on process but fully trusted in the Father’s will. In Luke 22:42, He prayed, “Yet not my
will but yours be done.” Jesus’ faith was not in a method but in God’s perfect plan, demonstrating the ultimate model of trust for believers.
Ellen White encourages us to look at nature to learn trust in God: “He (Jesus) desires us to read it in every lily and every spire of grass . . . full of assurance and confirmation of trust in God.”9 Whether lilies or grasses, they trust in God’s care, finding their place regardless of circumstance.
Faith is in God, not a system
Trusting in a process shifts our faith away from God and turns it into a formula, reducing faith to a system of actions and results. The Bible never calls believers to trust in human wisdom, strategy or progress, but to trust in God’s sovereign will. Unlike human processes, God’s ways are perfect, His plans are higher and His timing is flawless. For Christians, the message is clear: it’s not about trusting a process, but trusting in God’s providence.
Paul reassures believers in Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” Goodness comes from divine purpose, not from following a set of steps.10 As Ellen White reminds us, the time has come when believers must trust in God alone, not in a formula or system. Salvation depends on a relationship with God, not on a process.
Ultimately, it’s not about trusting an unseen system, but trusting in the unseen hand of God, who works behind the scenes for our good. So, instead of saying “Trust the process”, Christians should say, “Trust in the Lord”, for He is the only One worthy of our faith.
1. Bruce K Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1–15 (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2004), 280–85.
2. Tremper Longman III, Psalms: An Introduction and Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2014), 301–3.
3. Walter C Kaiser Jr, Hard Sayings of the Old Testament (Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 1988), 92–94.
4. Ibid., 280–85.
5. John N Oswalt, The Book of Isaiah: Chapters 40–66 (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1998), 387–89.
6. Ellen G White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1885), 698.
7. Gordon J Wenham, Genesis 16–50 (Dallas, TX: Word Biblical Commentary, 1994), 458–62.
8. Ibid., 458–62.
9. Ellen G White, Christ’s Object Lessons (Review and Herald Publishing Association, 1900), 19.
10. Douglas J Moo, The Letter to the Romans (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1996), 529–32.
Toma Naivalu currently pursuing a master’s degree in Religion, with an emphasis on Systematic Theology, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies in the Philippines.
From shame to salvation
Have you ever felt judged just because of how you look, or because of something someone said about you? I have.
I’m a man who, in medical terms, is classified as “morbidly obese”. I’m also a pastor in the Seventh-day Adventist Church—a church that holds health and wellness in high regard as part of its message. And I love that about our faith. But it hasn’t always been easy for me to work with.
There have been moments when I’ve walked into a room and felt every eye turn toward me. I have been greeted upon entering church with a “what do you weigh?” rather than “welcome, it’s nice to see you here at church”. I’ve heard the whispers, seen the sideways glances. I’ve visited churches where people warmly greeted those who came with me—yet avoided me entirely.
I remember one experience in particular. We were
travelling across to the other side of Australia, I had just been offered the ministry roles I now hold. We decided to visit a local church for the first time as we were passing through. As we sat down, a man, who we later found out was the head elder, tapped my wife on the shoulder and asked, “Is your husband a sumo wrestler?” We were visitors.
I shudder at the thought of others who may visit. The judgement runs deep. You feel it in your bones.
You might be thinking, I’m seeking sympathy I’m not, I promise. I’m pointing to a real issue in how many Christians, especially Adventists, sometimes think.
It is all because of one thing: labels.
Labels are everywhere. They’re handed out quickly, often without thought, but they carry a burden. They have the power to shape how people see us—and even how we
see ourselves. Labels can isolate, diminish and wound.
The truth is, none of us has escaped being labelled in some way. It might not be about your weight, but perhaps it’s the way you dress or the colour of your skin. Maybe it’s your past, background, your struggles or something people think they know about you.
But here’s what I’ve learned, and what I want to share with you today: God doesn’t use labels the way we do. He looks beyond them. He sees the heart. He sees the whole story. Stories like mine aren’t new. In fact, Scripture is filled with people who were judged, labelled and written off, yet God used them in powerful ways.
One of my favourite stories in Scripture is about a woman who was heavily labelled—not just in her own time, but even by us today.
If I were to say to you: Pagan. Prostitute. Woman. Jericho—would you know who I’m talking about?
If you said Rahab, you’re absolutely right.
Rahab’s story is a powerful picture of faith and redemption. She was a woman—already seen as less in her time. Not only this but she was a pagan and also a prostitute. To the Israelite, she would be seen as an outsider, unclean and morally bankrupt.
Rahab seemed an unlikely candidate for God’s purposes. Yet when two Israelite spies came to her city, she made a bold choice. She hid them and helped them escape, declaring, “The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (Joshua 2:11). Though she had only heard stories about God, Rahab believed. Her faith moved her to act, even at great personal risk.
Meanwhile, after the miraculous victory at Jericho, God gave the Israelites a clear command: they were not to take any of the city’s treasures for themselves. The spoils of war belonged to the Lord—they were to be placed in His treasury as an offering of obedience and gratitude, for it was God who had given them the victory. But one man, by the name of Achan, chose to disobey. In secret, he took silver, gold and a beautiful robe, and hid them in his tent.
But Achan’s hidden sin didn’t stay hidden for long. When Israel went into battle against the small city of Ai, they were soundly defeated. Lives were lost because God was no longer with them.
Joshua sought the Lord, and God revealed that someone among them had broken His command. Through the casting of lots, Achan was identified. He had opportunity after opportunity to come forward—but remained silent until he had no choice but to speak.
their lives in battle, and his entire family was affected. The stolen treasure had been buried where they lived, strongly suggesting his family were aware of his actions.
It was a brutal and sobering end for this family, this group of people who were part of Israel—part of what we might call “the church”.
Rahab and Achan stand as two powerful, contrasting figures, both tied to the battle of Jericho, yet with very different outcomes.
Both dealt with things hidden. Rahab hid the spies under flax in obedience; Achan hid stolen goods under his tent in rebellion. One act led to salvation and inclusion of Rahab and her family into God’s people. The other led to judgement and destruction of Achan and his family. The difference wasn’t their status or background, it was their heart. Rahab feared the Lord and acted in faith. Achan dismissed God’s command and acted in self-interest.
In the same way, being in the church is not what keeps you safe. It’s a great place to be, but while you are in the church your heart and mind may be out in the world. You can come to church every Sabbath but neglect coming to Jesus.
Achan was once part of the tribe of Judah but he was removed. Here is the poetic twist . . . Can you guess which tribe Rahab was grafted into? That’s right Judah. Rahab and her family not only replaced Achan and his family, but she was honoured by becoming a direct ancestor of Jesus Christ. Rahab was Jesus’ great-great . . . grandma. WOW! How awesome. What amazing hope that should give you and me today!
It’s easy to look at someone else, like a woman selling her body or a person addicted to drugs and think, I’m not like that. But the truth is, your sin just looks different. The only real difference between you and them might be that you know Jesus, and they don’t. Your sins still exist. You’re just as broken as they are.
So let me ask:
Do you have any hidden sin you need to bring into the light?
Any thoughts or attitudes that need to be reset by God’s beautiful and merciful Spirit?
Or maybe . . .
You’re just tired. Worn out. Hurting.
Maybe you need a sign of hope to get through this week, just to face your family, your job or even your church.
Rahab’s story shows us that there is hope.
When Achan finally confessed, his words echoed the tone of Adam and Eve’s confession in the Garden— too little, too late. The damage had already been done. Because of Achan’s sin, not only did he face judgment, but others lost
Rahab’s life reminds us that God honours faith not family background. Obedience not appearance. He doesn’t see the “labels” that have been placed on us by others and ourselves. His eye is set on what’s hidden in our hearts. What is in your heart today? Give it all to your King.
Broden House associate pastor, Livingstone church and chaplain at Carmel College, WA, where he lives with his wife and three children.
God chooses not to answer
This is far too personal to add my name to this happening . . . but we must accept that God sometimes chooses not to answer our prayers. I married a Catholic and we had five children. I suspected that my husband was having an affair/s, which of course he would not own up to, after me asking him several times. I begged and pleaded with God to tell me. He never did—until a few years after my husband passed away. By then, the children had found partners and were happily married and I am living in peace, knowing the reasons God chose not to answer my prayers. We remained a family.
Name supplied, Tas
Are we sinnaholics?
Re “Grace on Crutches” (May 31). May I point out, our sinful nature can be used as an excuse to sin; but really has nothing to do with our sinning. The angels and Adam were holy before they sinned. Adam did not have to sin; he chose to sin. It is not our status as sinners (1 John 1:8 says we are liars if we say we are not sinners) that concerns God—it is
Conversations
our standing, not falling or sinning, that matters to Him. Paul tells us four times in Ephesians 6:10-18 to STAND. We all are sinners by nature or are sinnaholics (noun) who must abstain from sin (verb) (1 Peter 2:11).
We are sinners by name and sinners by choice. There will be no-one who has been ignominously defeated by the wiles of the devil, standing on the sea of glass in heaven. Only the overcomers who overcame as Christ did (Revelation 3:21; 22:11).
To be one of God’s children we must “become” one (John 1:11-13) and bear His fruit (not ours) (Galatians 5:22-25; John 15:1-6; Ezekiel 36:2427,31). Not all the world wants to be saved from sin or have God as their Father (Matthew 1:21). No-one can claim a relationship with Jesus if they are walking on a different path and in the opposite direction of Jesus. By referring to others as legalists or “religious moralists” we are treading on God’s jurisdiction and using the Bible as ammunition not admonition. Only He can read people’s thoughts and intentions as to why they want to obey Him. It has nothing to do with us mere mortals. It is better for man to
call us legalists than for God to call us illegalists.
Never choose or use grace as an excuse to sin or fail God, when we have a heaven full of grace and power at our disposal to use as Christ did (Hebrews 5:7-10; 1 Peter 2:21-23).
If one excuse for sin could be found (including our natures) it would no longer be sin and Christ died for nothing.
Remember two important things. 1. This world’s probationary time closes before Jesus comes (even with our deaths). lf we are still sinning past probation, we are eternally lost (Revelation 22:11). 2. If we are still sinning up to that time, which resurrection will we come up in?
Jesus is not coming to save anyone; He did that at the cross. He is coming to give every one their reward—good or bad. God has graciously given us a second chance to make things right. Don’t misuse it or blow it away. Our eternal destiny depends on God’s wonderful grace and Christ’s blood and righteousness applied and appropriated in our daily lives to gain the victory over sin and Satan. Eric Hort, WA
Obituaries
ELLIS, Mostyn, born 25.12.1932 in Dannevirke, NZ; died 27.2.25 at home in Pokeno. In 1966 he married Dellwyn Liggert. He is survived by his wife; children, Bronwyn, Owen and Deby, Carolyn and David, and Evan and Sarinah; and grandchildren, Nathan and Nicki, Sarah and Robbie, Samuel, Lydia, Luke, and Abigail. Mos was a member of the Papakura church, where he served faithfully in many roles as a servant leader for over 60 years. Surrounded by his family, he was confident of seeing them on the morning when his Friend Jesus will return. He was deeply loved by his family. He is remembered by many for his quiet sharing of the love of Jesus in practical and meaningful ways, encouraging, caring for others and giving generously.
Bob Larsen, Owen Ellis
EVERINGHAM, Letty Joy (nee Fowler), born 19.7.1930 in Port Macquarie, NSW; died 22.5.25 in Kempsey. She was predeceased by her husband, Hedley in 2016. She is survived by her siblings, Beth and Wendy; children and
their partners, Dennis and Roslyn, Wayne and Josy, Anne, Debbie and Greg; grandchildren, Melissa, Nigel, Carrie, Mia, Joel, Peta, Jason and Timothy; and great-grandchildren, Sarah, Billy, Isabella, Eli, Maya, Rylee, Layla, Tahlee, Millie, Harry, Toby, Iszac, Max, Rosie, Rafe, Lucy, Alix and Ryan. She loved her family and was an active member of Kempsey church. She was involved in various church activities, touching the lives of many with her kindness, hospitality and dedication. She was strong in her faith and now rests in peace, awaiting the return of her Saviour.
Quinton Dutlow
FLETCHER, Graham Sydney, born 25.8.1942 in St Leonards, NSW; died 23.9.24 in Neringah Hospital, Wahroonga. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca (Normanhurst); and sister, Marion. Graham is fondly remembered for his love of God and the Bible, his deep love for his wife and family members, and his passion for music. He often said that music spoke on his behalf when words failed him. He now awaits the call to life from the Saviour whom he loved and served.
Barend Nieuwstraten, Nataniel Pereira, David McKibben
JESNOEWSKI, Mervyn George, born 20.2 1936 in Collie, WA; died 31.5.25 in Busselton. He was predeceased by his wife, Ruby in 2024. He is survived by his children, Graham (Bunbury); Sheryl (Elizabeth, SA); Carol (Elizabeth); David (Elizabeth) and Phillip (Perth, WA); foster daughters, Valerie (Busselton) and Annette (Perth); brother, Stan (Perth); 16 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He led an active life driving buses and trucks and loved tinkering with cars. He enjoyed seeing the country, so in his retirement, he and Ruby, his wife of 67 years, spent much time travelling. Although he left the Lord for many years, he re-dedicated his life to God and was looking forward to being reunited with Ruby in heaven when Jesus returns.
Ron Mason
KENDALL, Ronald, born 29.1.1931 in Armadale, WA; died 19.5.25 in Adventist Care, Rossmoyne. On 1.5.1954 he married Margaret Hoey. Ron was predeceased by his son, Glen. He is survived by his children, Rhonda Morcombe (Esperance), Neil and Jenny
(Coffs Harbour, NSW), Philip and Stacey (Perth, WA) and Noeline and David Hatch (Merredin); 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Fran Norwood (Esperance) and Jesse Eaton (Bunbury). Ron was a hardworking, practical man who could turn his hand to almost anything—a man of few words— who demonstrated his love for family and others by acts of kindness and helpfulness. He loved the Bible, especially the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation and seeing evidence of their fulfilment in history. The return of Jesus as predicted in Scripture was his hope.
Roger Millist
LAING, Lindsay
Kelvin, born 3.9.1935 in Southern Cross, WA; died 19.5.25 in Fiona Stanley Hospital. On 25.6.1960 he married Glenys. Lindsay was predeceased by his sister, Wendy. He is survived by his wife; children, Brett and Jo (Perth), Andrea and Glenn (Busselton), and Phillip and Antonella (Perth); grandchildren, Sheree, Michael, Luke, Nathan and Chloe; great-grandchildren, Heidi and Haiz; and siblings, Joan and Rodney. Lindsay was a practical
Christian. He was a skilled cabinet maker and woodworker who in his retirement enjoyed making wooden toys and puzzles which he donated for sick and disadvantaged children. A foundation member of the Belmont church, he was involved with the building, maintenance and grounds keeping for many years. He rests awaiting the call of his Friend and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Roger Millist
MAHER, Kaylene Joy (nee Krelle), born 2.10.1951 in Horsham, Vic; died
24.4.25 in Bendigo. She was predeceased by her daughter, Anita Skewes in 2017. Kaylene is survived by her husband, Stephen (Shelbourne); children, John (Bendigo), Vashti (Travancore), Connie (Melbourne), Daniel (Lismore, NSW); Alexander (Sydenham, Vic) and Eliza Southwell (Cooranbong, NSW).
Daniel Maher, Harley Southwell
PACKER, Barry Thomas, born 1.7.1940 in Katoomba, NSW; died 4.5.25 in Wyong. On 24.3.1966 he married Larraine Ballard. He was predeceased by his daughter, Leanne Lockett in 2019. Barry is survived by his wife (Wyee); daughter, Kerryn and David Odell (Warriewood); son-in-law Darren Locket (Valentine); and grandchildren, Jade, Thomas, Jasmyn, Nathan and William. Barry and Larraine lived in Thornleigh before later moving to Port Macquarie where Barry bought a courier run. They attended Port Macquarie church where Barry and Larraine both held office in Sabbath school. Barry was active in church, helped make new church pews and was part of a men’s singing group. He loved to be busy and help others. He will be remembered with great affection by all who knew him.
Steve Magaitis PARKER, Kevin Bruce John, born 20.4.1944 in Port Lincoln,
SA; died 31.1.25 in Port Lincoln Hospital. He was predeceased by his daughter, Angela in 2016. Kevin is survived by his wife, Thelma (Port Lincoln); children, Darryl (Davoren Park), Michael (Port Lincoln) and Jodie (Port Lincoln); 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Kevin was faithful to Jesus throughout his life. He served for a number of years, with his wife Thelma, as the caretaker of the South Australian Conference “Ankara” youth camp. He awaits the call of the Life Giver.
Gary Hodgkin
ROBERTS, Yvonne
Barbara (Bonnie)
OAM, born 28.6.1927 in Hobart, Tas: died 15.7.24 in Sandringham, Vic. She was predeceased by her husband, Noel in 1993. She is survived by her daughter, Julie and her husband Ray (Black Rock); grandson, Brooke Allen and partner Maude; and great-granddaughter, Gia. Bonnie was one of the first three women to serve on the South Pacific Division board. She was an active member of the church community and chaired the board of the church-owned Maranatha Hostel. She helped establish the fourth women’s refuge in Australia and Salamanca Market in Hobart. Bonnie was a strong, independent woman for whom family was her priority. She was a visionary who had a passion for social justice and for decades represented the Church on the National Council of Women.
Julie Cooper
WALLIS, Ronald
Stanley, born 27.9.1930 in Footscray, Vic; died 26.4.25 in AdventCare Whitehorse, Nunawading. In 1952 he married Shirley (nee Goldsmith). He was predeceased by her in 2020. Ron is survived by his children, Stanley (Launceston, Tas), Joan Moss (Montmorency, Vic) and Barbara Cresswell (Macleod) and
their families. Ron was an active and committed member of Preston church since 1939, holding many roles in the church including in Pathfinders, social activities leader, deacon and audio visual. Many lasting memories were generated at his favourite holiday destination in Lorne. Ron cherished his time there—whether fishing or sharing his faith—and valued these moments deeply. His presence will be deeply missed but his love, faith and passion for music live on in those who knew him.
Josh Wood
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STUDY THE ADULT SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON YOUR WAY
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ABSOLUTE CARE FUNERALS
The Adventist family owned and operated business, caring for you from Sydney to Newcastle and Wollongong. Contact Arne Neirinckx, who understands our Adventist philosophy. Contact us on 1300 982 803 or 0408 458 452 or <arne@absolutecare funerals.com.au>, even if you have already paid for your funeral.
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Adventist World
July 12
World Mission Budget Offering
12th July - Digital
Strategy for Mission
People look to Google and social media to find answers to their spiritual questions. We must create engaging digital avenues so that people can find the truth, whenever they seek it, wherever they seek it.
Your church offering today will be used for the Digital Strategy for Mission which will invest in innovative digital strategies to accelerate the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to reach the world for Christ.
These digital mission projects will facilitate the seeker’s journey from contact to conversion and from decision to disciple, integrating a strong element of personal contact.
Thank you for your generous support of world mission.
