Male headship
Part 1: In the church 10
Adventist schools outpace sector growth in Victoria 5
Adventist Record | November 29, 2025
ISSN 0819-5633
EDITOR’S
NOTE:
The significance of 40
Jarrod Stackelroth Editor
While the number can represent a whole generation . . . it can also represent a time of trial, testing or a specific period of waiting before a transition.
The number 40 carries some significance in the Bible. The first time we encounter a 40-day period is Genesis 7, which records that during the great flood, the rain fell for 40 days and 40 nights. Noah then waited 40 days after the ark ran aground before releasing the raven. The children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 long years. A period of 40 years in the Bible often represents the passing of one generation to another. The life of Moses is broken into 40-year blocks and some kings and leaders were recorded as ruling for 40 years, including David, Solomon, Eli and Saul.
The prophets don’t miss out on experiencing the number 40 either. Elijah walked for 40 days to get to the mountain to meet with God.
Jonah’s warning to Ninevah also came with a 40-day countdown. They had 40 days to repent of their ways or God would destroy the city. The whole place repented and left Jonah red-faced and angry. These are just a few of the mentions in the Old Testament.
The theme of 40 continues in the New Testament. Jesus goes into the wilderness for 40 days and nights and is tempted by the devil. Jesus then spends 40 days with His disciples before His ascension.
While the number can represent a whole generation as it did in the wilderness it can also represent a time of trial, testing or a specific period of waiting before a transition.
Recently I turned 40. Milestone birthdays always seem to mean a bit more. You spend time reflecting, planning and assessing your life around these milestones. But 40 seems to be a significant number.
Reflecting my own recent milestone, I can see seasons of testing, patience and transition very clearly in my own life. Entering my 40s, it is encouraging to look back and see where God has shown up and how He has led me: in my career, in life, in the big decisions and in the small moments. This decade, we were blessed with the children we thought at one stage we may never have. I’ve achieved some exciting career milestones. I can see seasons of wilderness and challenge that I’ve (relatively successfully) navigated. Once you get to the other side of the wilderness, you can see the cloud that went before, and the manna that fell the whole time. Sometimes, when you’re in those seasons you can’t see God’s hand at work—you just have to be patient. But they say that hindsight is 20/20 and I can see God’s leading clearly looking back at the first 20 years and the second 20.
Not that you asked, but what advice can I give you from the lofty vantage point of 40 years? I’ve learned some lessons—some of them the hard way.
There is a profound promise in the verse Matthew 6:33 that our family has claimed—if we put God’s kingdom first, everything else we need will be added. It’s true. God has seen us through the ups and downs and continues to provide the things we don’t immediately know we need.
Another lesson is that even in the dark and difficult times of life, when God seems silent, He is working in the background. James 1:2–4 reminds us that testing times produce perseverance and eventually maturing. This decade I’ve walked with my wife through infertility and mental health challenges, skated close to burnout and wrestled with isolation. But I’ve survived, coming out a more compassionate and faith-filled person.
Finally, I’ve started to realise that people are the most important thing you can gain. Achievements, careers, milestones are only as important as the people you share them with. It is hard to prioritise people out of love and not what we can gain from them. It is hard to put family first when work (even work for the Lord) feels like an identity. As Christians we should be the first to love and to serve others but not for what we get out of the relationships. People are lonely. Life is hard. Community is crucial. We need each other. I need you and you need me.
Thank you, Lord, for 40 years and for this Adventist community in the South Pacific. As flawed and fractious as we might be, we are better together.
I will go on God’s mission
Maveni Kaufononga South Pacific Division vice-president
While attending the Australian government prayer breakfast recently, I met a Christian brother from India whose story deeply challenged me. He is a mechanic by profession—but beyond his trade, he is a passionate church planter. Over the years, he has planted more than 400 churches and has a goal to plant 2000 across India.
As we spoke, he discovered that I am a pastor. With genuine curiosity he asked, “So, where are you planting churches?” His question caught me off guard. It stirred something within me and made me reflect on our core calling— to build God’s kingdom in this world. Am I truly engaged in God’s mission, or have I become too comfortable within the walls of administration and routine ministry?
One of our strategic focus areas for this quinquennium is “I will go on God’s Mission”. This is not just a slogan—it’s a personal commitment. Whether we are administrators, teachers, health workers or local church members, each of us has a part to play in sharing Christ’s love and expanding His kingdom.
We can witness through acts of kindness, intentional prayer, personal Bible studies or simply by being the hands and voice of Jesus in our communities and workplaces. Every genuine word of encouragement, every prayer for a neighbour, every act of service—these are seeds of the gospel that God can use to change lives.
Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37,38 ESV).
May we each say, not just with our words but with our lives, “Here am I, Lord—send me.”
Betikama opens new multipurpose centre
Betikama Adventist College has officially opened a new multipurpose centre on its campus east of Honiara.
The facility, completed through a partnership between the school, its alumni and community, the Solomon Islands Education Support Group, and Hills Adventist College (NSW), will serve as a venue for assemblies, chapel services, cultural events and sports activities.
The 600-square-metre steel structure was dedicated on October 14, fulfilling a decades-long goal for the school community. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and joy,” said principal Bevan Tutuo. “For the first time, our entire college family can meet under one roof. It will strengthen unity and provide a safe space for learning and worship.”
The project was jointly funded by the Solomon Islands Education Support Group, which contributed $A108,000, and Betikama staff, students, alumni and parents who raised more than $A200,000 in cash and materials to
complete the foundations and slab.
A team of 31 students and staff from Hills Adventist College joined the construction effort in October as part of a service-learning trip. “The students were hands-on—lifting beams, drilling bolts and helping in every stage of the build,” said team leader Jayden Groves.
Hills teacher Abbey Tricot added that the trip was “an opportunity to build bridges of understanding and friendship” through practical service.
The Solomon Islands Education Support Group, a ministry run by Adventist church members led by Dr Alex Currie, Pastor Ray Eaton and Brett Partridge, has provided long-term support to Adventist education in the Solomons, coordinating more than 30 containers of materials worth more than $A620,000 in the past three years.
Solomon Islands Minister for Education and former Betikama student Tozen Leokana congratulated the partners involved.
Adventist schools outpace sector growth in Vic
Adventist schools in Victoria are experiencing strong growth, outpacing both government and Catholic sectors, and even surpassing other independent schools.
New data shows that in 2025, enrolments in independent schools across Victoria are growing at 4.2 per cent—much faster than government schools (1 per cent) or Catholic schools (1.4 per cent). But Adventist schools are expanding at an even stronger pace, recording 6.4 per cent growth, nearly one-and-a-half times faster than the independent sector average.
Adventist Schools Victoria (ASV) regional marketing manager Cameron Arnold said affordability is a key driver: “There appears to be a trend of lowfee independent schools outpacing the growth of high-fee independent schools. Our commitment to providing excellent Adventist education that is affordable has met this need.”
To support this expansion,
significant investment in infrastructure is underway across Adventist schools in Victoria. New classrooms, ovals and multipurpose centres have been completed recently, are nearing completion or are about to commence, ensuring schools can cater to growing enrolments.
“Our growth presents opportunities for us to strengthen programs, subject offerings and service opportunities for students, and create better organisational structures, middle leadership opportunities and support for our teachers,” said ASV CEO Steve Cowley.
Yet with rapid growth comes new challenges. The biggest? Finding the right teachers. ASV is currently seeking more than 50 teachers to join its schools in 2026.
For more information on the job opportunities, visit <asv.vic.edu.au> or send an enquiry to <asvhr@adventist. org.au>.
Honiara, Solomon Islands | Ken Long/Loanne Liligeto
Ringwood, Vic | Tracey Bridcutt
Betikama students in the new multipurpose centre.
At the opening of the Mernda Hills Christian College Middle School building in 2024: principal Kristin Hankins, Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell, head of Secondary Trent Martin, staff and students.
New president for Tasmanian Conference
Dr Jeff Parker has been appointed president of the Tasmanian Conference. The announcement was made on October 31.
He replaces Pastor Rick Hergenhan, who was appointed as youth director for the Australian Union Conference (AUC) in early October.
Dr Parker has served as AUC youth director since 2014 and brings nearly three decades of experience in ministry across Australia.
He said he and his family are looking forward to returning to Tasmania. “I am very honoured to be considered for the position of president of Tasmania,” he said. “My first six years of youth ministry were in Tasmania and we had such an awesome experience there. Our family loved the people of the Conference and we thoroughly enjoyed our time in their great state. We were blessed, and we are super excited to be working with them again.”
He and his wife, Robyn, have five children and seven grandchildren.
Before serving at the AUC, Dr Park-
er was youth and ADRA director for the Tasmanian Conference (1999–2004) and youth director for the North New South Wales Conference (2005–2013). He began his ministry in Bega, NSW, in 1996.
AUC president Dr Brendan Pratt said Dr Parker’s leadership had been “very appreciated” across the Union. “Jeff has served as youth leader at the AUC in inspiring ways for 12 years,” Pastor Pratt said. “Both Jeff and Robyn are held in high regard in the Tasmanian Conference based on their previous ministry. When Jeff was called to the role, he expressed his love for the Tasmanian people. I’m looking forward to seeing this next chapter in Jeff’s ministry and the Tasmanian Church.”
Dr Pratt also acknowledged Pastor Hergenhan’s contribution to the Tasmanian Conference. “Rick and [his wife] Libby made a valuable contribution to God’s church in Tasmania. I look forward to seeing how God works in and through him to lead youth ministry across the AUC,” he said.
Farleigh church celebrates a century of ministry
Farleigh, Qld | Juliana Muniz/Aretha Yasserie
Farleigh Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Mackay region, celebrated its 100-year anniversary from September 26 to 28, bringing together current and former members for a weekend of worship, reflection and fellowship.
The celebration recognised a century of ministry since the church was founded in 1925 to serve the Australian South Sea Islander community. “It is a small church with a big history,” said one of the visitors.
Also at the event were past ministers, including Northern Australian Conference president Pastor Simon Gigliotti, who began his pastoral ministry at Farleigh.
Pastor Gigliotti reflected on the church’s early history and the dedication of its pioneers. “Some would walk a long way to worship together, others worked through tough
conditions to establish the church building. They sacrificed financially and some left other congregations— even as respected preachers—as they discovered biblical truth and committed to it,” he said.
“One hundred years later, we are still blessed with dedicated members who are helping Farleigh church shine its light in the community,” he added.
Across the weekend, guests joined worship services, shared memories and participated in a prayer of rededication led by Pastors Gigliotti, Eric Kral, Chris Kirkwood, Matthew Pearce, Pat Tuialii and senior elder Helen Yasserie.
Reminiscing was also a part of the program, with many sharing memories. “Farleigh is renowned for the friendly, warm reception and hospitality to all denominations and cultures who’ve worshiped here,” said church member Aretha Yasserie.
Hobart, Tas | Juliana Muniz
Past and present members attended the celebration.
Dr Jeff Parker.
Retreat for women in need comes to a close
Galston, NSW | Tracey Bridcutt
A decade of care, compassion and connection was celebrated as Sydney Adventist Women hosted the 10th and final Hope Stayz retreat at Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre from September 29 to August 1.
For the past 10 years, the two-night, three-day retreat has provided a safe and nurturing space for disadvantaged women and their children—those facing domestic violence, anxiety, depression, financial hardship or homelessness. Guests have been referred through agencies such as ADRA Community Centre Blacktown and women’s refuges.
Funded and staffed by Sydney Adventist Women and supported by dedicated volunteers, the retreat has sought to restore dignity, confidence and self-worth by offering love, care and hope.
This year, nine mothers and 15 children attended, cared for by 27 volunteers who gave their time—many taking annual leave from work to be there. The program included life skills workshops, a boutique with free clothing, pamper sessions with hair, nails and facials, and a photo shoot. Children were catered for at the kids’ club, giving mothers an opportunity to relax and recharge.
The retreat was first initiated by former Crosslands managers Bruce and Maxine Hill, who pitched the idea to Beryl Landers, then director of Sydney Adventist Women. They worked together to make the idea a reality. Since then more than 120 women have attended the program.
“Through the Hope Stayz program we have seen so many lives impacted and one particular guest has actually volunteered for us for the past three years,” said Meleofa Fifita-Tovo, current director of Sydney Adventist Women, “She has changed her life spiritually, physically, emotionally, and she wanted to give back to the Hope Stayz program because we have helped her in these ways.”
Children, too, have experienced joy and hope. Shelley Phipps, kids’ club coordinator for eight of the past 10 years, reflected, “When they first arrive they are all scared, they’re shy, they don’t smile very much, and then after two-and-a-half days with us they’re going home with big grins on their faces.”
After 10 years, the Hope Stayz retreat has come to an end as Sydney Adventist Women focuses on other projects. Leaders expressed their gratitude to the many volunteers whose dedication and service made the ministry possible across the decade.
making headlines
Faith in Roblox
Advent City, a virtual space created by the South American Division on Roblox, offers young people an interactive space to explore Christian values, faith and the mission of the Adventist Church. Since its launch Advent City has attracted more than 123,000 visits, hosted a real-time opening ceremony and become a unique missionary tool engaging players in meaningful, educational and faith-based experiences within a popular digital platform.—SAD
Smiles in Kyiv
ADRA Ukraine launched its ADRA Kids initiative in Kyiv, providing gifts and creative activities for 149 children affected by the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. The program features workshops, performances and psychological support, and aims to help 100,000 children regain a sense of normalcy and joy.—ANN
Honoured in harmony
Several Adventist musicians—including Professor Ken Burton, Dr Charmaine Elliott, Paul Lee and The Golden Chords—were honoured at the inaugural UK Gospel Music Hall of Fame ceremony in October. The event celebrated their musical achievements and their ministry through music, highlighting the Adventist Church’s impact on the UK gospel scene.—TED
Wall of prayer
Construction has begun on the $A80 million Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer near Birmingham (UK). Set to become Britain’s largest Christian monument, it will feature one million bricks, each representing a story of answered prayer submitted from around the world, and aims to testify of God’s goodness when completed in 2028.—Vision Christian Media
Pamper session for the retreat participants.
Investiture weekend
Adventurers, Pathfinders and Ambassadors from Kokopo (PNG) were recognised for their efforts at an investiture and certificate presentation ceremony at Sonoma Adventist College from October 31 to November 1 Ambassadors were officially invested with new uniforms and ties. They also received World Changers Bibles. Teachers were also acknowledged with Certificates of Leadership for their guidance. The Sabbath evening program continued with the Adventurer and Pathfinder investiture ceremony with 23 Adventurers and 21 Pathfinders receiving pins and certificates. The event concluded with a flag-casing ceremony, symbolising the close of the 2025 club year.—Nathany Sam
Lobbying for justice
A small group of Adventist church members have visited Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra, ACT, on November 3 to participate in the “Let Justice Flow” conference, hosted by non-denominational Christian organisation Common Grace. Attendees were briefed on the relevant issues, led by yarning circles with Indigenous Christian leaders, and prepared for meetings with elected representatives, as well as spending time in worship and prayer. The Common Grace group of 140 Christians from around Australia had meetings with some 40 Members of Parliament and Senators. “The politicians met us with curiosity and grace, finding points of commonality and appreciating our Christian perspective that went beyond the statistics with which they are already familiar,” reported Dr Paul Johanson, a medical doctor from Brisbane.—Nathan Brown
Lifeline at the border
A new community health post has opened in Mondia, on the border of Madang and Simbu provinces (PNG), bringing essential medical services to previously underserved areas. Initiated by Kuman District director Pastor Pius Gerry and his wife, Bettsy, the facility was officially opened in mid-October. The Simbu Provincial Health Authority will oversee operations in partnership with Adventist Mission, providing easier access to healthcare for local families —Rose Sinias
Messages of renewal
Dr Steve Stephenson from Sydney Adventist Hospital, and his wife and Laurazelle, were guest speakers at the University of Eastern Africa’s annual camp meeting and Week of Prayer in Baraton, Kenya, from October 3-12. Dr Stephenson preached daily sermons while Mrs Stephenson led workshops on youth, family and women’s ministry. The event, themed “Renewing Our Passion for God”, resulted in 177 baptisms and was described by university leaders as a time of renewal and revival —Record staff
Discipleship abroad
Twenty-five young adult volunteers from Australia and New Zealand joined forces with the Egypt-Sudan Field and VicYouth Australia to lead the first Egyptian Youth Congress, held August 12–16 at Sawsanat El Wadi, Egypt.
Themed “Let Faith Flow: From the Nile to the Nations”, the five-day congress brought together more than 200 young people for worship, workshops, panels and creative activities designed to strengthen discipleship and cross-cultural connections. Guest speakers included South Pacific Division Institute of Discipleship director Pastor Nick Kross and Victorian Conference youth director Pastor Philip Hyland.
During the Friday evening program, eight young people responded to appeals for baptism or Bible studies, followed by a baptism service on Sabbath afternoon. “We saw God’s hand all over this trip— from the fundraising and team formation to the transformation we witnessed in Egypt,” said Pastor Hyland. “Lives were touched and hearts softened as Aussies, Egyptians and Sudanese came together to lift up Jesus and ‘Let Faith Flow.’”
Volunteer Stanley Trotter said the experience offered a new perspective: “Fellowshipping with believers who balance faith, culture and tradition taught me how to live proudly for Jesus.” Fellow volunteer Ella Meleisea added, “It was bittersweet to see such a special, God-led experience come to an end.”—Kymberley McMurray
have news to share?
Send info and photos to <news@record.net.au>
Seeds for cocoa success
ADRA Solomon Islands is helping cocoa farmers in Marovo Lagoon (Western Province) strengthen their skills and livelihoods through the establishment of a new cocoa module farm at Gevala under the Sustainable Economic and Agricultural Solutions (SEAS) Project. A cocoa module farm functions as a small nursery where young cocoa plants are cultivated before being transferred to larger farms. Sixteen farmers attended a four-day training at Malolo Cocoa Farm, learning pruning, nursery management and marketing. At the end of the training, each participant received materials to start their own nurseries.—Denver Newter
Fiesta for a cause
The Hamilton Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church, New Zealand, partnered with ADRA NZ to host a vibrant cultural fundraising event on October 19, celebrating Latin American heritage and community spirit. Members from Argentina, Colombia and Venezuela shared traditional foods such as empanadas (pastry), torta frita (fried bread), arepas (grilled corn bread) and buñuelos (cheesy sweet dough), accompanied by music and colourful cultural displays. “The event was an opportunity to celebrate our cultures under Jesus and express our gratitude to Aotearoa/New Zealand for welcoming us,” said Pastor Sergio Monteiro, who leads the Hamilton Hispanic Group and the Brazilian Adventist Church. Funds raised during the event were donated to ADRA NZ to support its community initiatives —Sergio Monteiro/Record staff
MALE HEADSHIP:
Part 1: In the Church
Women in church leadership can be a contentious issue among Christians, frequently prompting vigorous discussion. Male headship in the church often lies at the heart of the debate. Let’s explore the origin of the idea and it’s implications for the life of the church.
Although the phrase “male headship” is not found in the New Testament, it finds its roots in a particular
interpretation of two primary New Testament passages, 1 Corinthians 11:3 and Ephesians 5:22, which establish the man/husband as head of the woman/wife. Because the apostle Paul does not provide a comprehensive explanation of what it means to be the “head” as applied to Christ or husbands, various culturally influenced meanings have been ascribed to the idea throughout Christian history. Most commonly, it has been assumed
that the word “head” should be understood in terms of the husband having authority over his wife and the expectation that the wife should submit to the decisions of the husband in all matters pertaining to family life. For a further exploration on headship in the home see part 2 in the December 6 issue.
For many Christians, the idea of male headship in the home naturally extends to the church. They believe that since the church is God’s family, the supposedly biblical rules governing family life should apply to the life of the church. It follows that, as the husband is the head of the family, the pastor is the head of the congregation, which submits to his authority. Since the New Testament only speaks of the “husband” being the head, this should naturally preclude women from any position that would place them in authority over others in the church. Interestingly, this position rarely gets taken to its logical conclusion, ie that all men in the church have authority over all women in the church, or that the pastor’s authority over women supersedes the authority of their husbands.
While there is biblical support for Christ as head of the church and for husbands as head of the wife, there is no biblical support for the idea of male headship in the church; rather, it stems from extra-biblical philosophical and social traditions hostile to women in leadership.1
Within this context, the early Catholic Church applied family imagery to church relationships in two main ways: first, the church adopted the position that, in view of Christ’s absence on Earth, bishops and their representatives (local priests) should function as Christ’s replacements. As such, bishops assumed headship positions in the church in place of Christ. Eventually, this was expressed through the Latin phrase in persona Christi Capitis (“in place of Christ the Head”).2 The logic is as follows: in the NT, Christ the Head is portrayed as the bridegroom (male imagery) who cares for His bride, the church (female imagery). If the bishop serves the church in persona Christi Capitis, ie, taking a headship role in place of Christ (vicarius Christi), he must be a man. Consequently, a bishop’s ordination is a metaphorical marriage, the bride being believers in his parish. This is the origin of male headship in the church. Second, the application of family imagery to church relationships resulted in priests being addressed as “fathers”, while the Bishop of Rome came to be known as the Holy Father or “pope” (Latin papa; Greek pappas; father).
While the 16th-century Reformation rejected many aspects of Catholic theology, the restriction of ministry to men remained deeply embedded in many Protestant traditions until the 19th century and beyond. Unlike Catholicism, where this restriction was rooted in doctrine, in Protestantism it was primarily traditional and cultural, often supported by a selective and superficial reading of New Testament passages. In recent decades, however, responding to the cultural shifts of the 1960s, the idea
that a husband’s headship over his wife extends to male headship in the church has gained traction within some evangelical circles, particularly those influenced by Calvinist traditions. Adventists reading evangelical literature on this subject have sometimes adopted similar positions and have argued against female leadership in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, being unaware that the concept of male headship in the church first originated in Roman Catholic theology.
It is not surprising, therefore, that until recently, the concept of male headship in the church was not present in Adventist literature. It was also missing in the writings of Ellen White and in early Adventist periodicals, such as the Advent Review and Sabbath Herald and the Signs of the Times. Neither was male headship in the church a voted Seventh-day Adventist fundamental belief or even the subject of a General Conference vote. To add to this, our denomination recognised Ellen White as an ordained and credentialed pastor.3 In this capacity, as well as that of being recognised as a prophet, she preached hundreds of sermons, exhorted and rebuked numerous church leaders, and exercised leadership in the church worldwide.
Accordingly, in contrast to other 19th and early 20thcentury conservative Protestant denominations, early Adventists encouraged women’s leadership.4 As a result, women served as local church pastors, evangelists, teachers and administrators. Accordingly, when Flora Palmer was elected to serve as acting Iowa Conference president in 1900 and Petra Tunheim to serve as the West Java Mission president (1913-1915), this did not cause dismay or uproar in our denomination.5
Adventist women have continued to serve in leadership roles, including commissioned pastors, elders, Sabbath school superintendents and teachers, worship leaders and personal ministry directors. Women have also been encouraged to give Bible studies, pray publicly and to lead in worship, as well as to serve on executive committees and boards. One can only imagine the complications that the doctrine of male headship would introduce into Adventist church life.
So why is this doctrine not compatible with Adventist faith?
First and foremost, Seventh-day Adventists have always upheld the New Testament belief that Christ is the only Head of the church (Ephesians 1:21, 5:23; Colossians 1:18), and that both men and women are included in the body of Christ. Accordingly, all who accept Christ as their Saviour, including pastors and leaders, are to “grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). Nowhere in the New Testament do we find church leaders referred to as “heads” of other believers.6
Ellen White also emphatically supported Christ’s unique headship in the church and never applied the term “head” to pastors or other church leaders. She thus wrote: “Christ,
not the minister, is the head of the church,”7 and “God has never given a hint in His word that He has appointed any man to be the head of the church.”8 Similarly, in describing Peter’s restoration to apostleship and calling to ministry, she wrote: “[T]he honour and authority [Peter] received from Christ had not given him supremacy over his brethren . . . Peter was not honoured as the head of the church.”9 Ellen White then goes on to quote Peter, who exhorted leaders not to “lord it over” those entrusted to them, but to be examples (1 Peter 5:3; cf. Mark 10:4245). Thus, it is evident that Ellen White did not support the concept of male headship in the church.
Second, Paul never implied that headship in the family extended to the relationship between church leaders and congregants. Rather, the husband/wife relationship is compared only to that of Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:25-32). Thus, there is no scriptural foundation to conclude that men/ordained pastors are “heads” of women in the church. Within the church there is only one head, Jesus Christ. Thus, rather than engaging in any form of spiritual headship over those entrusted to their care, pastors and leaders, like other believers, are called to exercise their spiritual gifting within the church.
And finally, the word “head” in Paul’s writings is often given connotations foreign to those found in the New Testament. In the context of our culture, the word “head” implies “ruling over” or “exercising authority over”. However, Jesus expressly forbade this approach to authority in the church: “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:42-45; cf Matthew 20:20-28; 1 Peter 5:1-4). Thus, a biblical understanding of leadership in the church is not about “ruling over” or having the last word but about service and self-sacrifice.10 Accordingly, the apostles often referred to themselves as slaves or servants (eg, 1 Corinthians 4:1; 2 Corinthians 4:5).
In light of these biblical teachings, the Adventist Church
has not taught male headship in the church, but rather, has seen the roles of men and women in the church through the lens of spiritual gifting. Accordingly, both men and women who are gifted by the Spirit, whether it be in teaching or preaching, leading or serving, giving or showing mercy, have been encouraged by the church to serve as elders, pastors and leaders at various levels of church organisation; and as university and hospital administrators, theology professors and conference leaders—according to their spiritual gifting (Romans 8:4-8).
1. See my “Breaking Down the Gender Walls of Antiquity,” Spes Christiana 34.1, 2023, 5-26. <works.hcommons.org/ records/72kxa-7y711>.
2. Catechism of the Catholic Church (Liguori, MO: Liguori Publications, 1994), 387. Also here: <vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P4T.HTM>.
3. Although human hands were never laid on Ellen White, the Ellen White Estate at the General Conference has several copies of ordained minister credentials issued to Ellen White. Her name is also listed alongside ordained Seventh-day Adventist pastors in many issues of the Advent Review and Sabbath Herald.
4. See, for example, BF Robbins, “To the Female Disciples in the Third Angel’s Message.” The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, December 8, 1859: 21-22, and GC Tenney, The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, May 24, 1892, 328-329.
5. <record.adventistchurch.com/2020/12/17/women-conference-presidents-a-forgotten-history/>.
6. See the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary statement for a biblical exposition of this idea <www.andrews.edu/sem/about/ statements/9-19-14-updated_web_version-unique_headship_of_ christ_final.pdf>.
7. Ellen White, “The Most Effective Agent for God,” The Signs of the Times, January 27, 1890, 50.
8. Ellen White, The Great Controversy (Nampa, ID: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1950) 51.
9. Ellen White, The Desire of Ages (Mountain View: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1940), 817.
10. We develop this theme in our article “To Submit or Not to Submit, That Is the Question,” Adventist Record, November 16, 2021. <record.adventistchurch.com/2021/11/16/to-submit-or-not-tosubmit-that-is-the-question/>.
Dr Darius Jankiewicz
Field, ministerial secretary and Spirit of Prophecy coordinator for the South Pacific Division.
Build a Capsule Pantry: Your Starter Pack for Budget-Friendly Meals
Sanitarium dietitians say eating well at home begins with smart pantry planning. Much like a capsule wardrobe, a capsule pantry is a set of essential items that work across multiple meals.
The combination of seven pantry staples in Sanitarium’s Capsule Pantry Starter Pack gives you the basics for a nutritious meal any night of the week. “It includes protein, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fruit and healthy fats. It means you always have a backup when you're short on time,” says Sanitarium accredited practising dietitian Nicola Perry.
Nicola’s 2025 Capsule Pantry List
1. Tinned Legumes (Chickpeas, Lentils, Mixed Beans)
Legumes are incredibly versatile and they are packed with nutrients, fibre and antioxidants. Research shows they are one of the foods associated with living longer.
2. Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are another healthy staple. They are a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and it’s known that canned tomatoes actually have more lycopene than fresh tomatoes.
3. Wholemeal Pasta or Brown Rice
Wholemeal pasta and brown rice are high in fibre, which aids digestion and promotes good health.
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil also contains polyphenols and antioxidants.It can be used in salad dressings, for roasting vegetables and even in cake.
5. Wholegrain Breakfast Cereal
Having a wholegrain breakfast cereal on hand means you are not only covered at breakfast, but you have a nutritious base that, with the right recipe, can create a versatile snack or meal at any time of the day.
6. Canned Fruit in Juice
Canned foods can be used widely as cheap, delicious pantry staples that can help you meet your daily nutrition goals and veggie intake. Canned fruit in juice—not syrup— is nutritious, affordable and has a long shelf life, making it budget friendly too.
7. Mixed Dried Herbs or Spice Blend
Herbs and spices are a great way to give meals extra flavour, without needing extra salt. Some can also be a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds so having them on-hand and using them liberally is a winwin for taste and health.
The teacher who never took a day off
Vaiola Malama (Kerisome) Head, usually known as Malama among her people, was born on Niue Island around 1890. She was adopted by Makaea Kerisome and his wife, Vihimanogi, when she was very young.
Makaea took his family to Samoa where he served as a teacher for the London Missionary Society from 1895 to 1901. After their return to Niue, Malama, at only 12 years old, was the subject of an arranged marriage, according to custom, with a man named Pauaki, who eventually passed away from leprosy.
Malama was introduced to the Seventh-day Adventist Church through missionaries Joseph and Julia Steed in 1908. This incurred some persecution from her family, and so believing it was beneficial to transfer Malama, the Steeds arranged for her to go to Tonga and spend time with Adventist teacher Ella Boyd. This arrangement proved mutually beneficial. Malama provided company and some protection to an isolated young teacher far from her homeland while Ella continued Malama’s education and became a role model for her. At the end of 1908 Ella and Malama sailed together for Australia.
In Australia, while Ella was appointed to the Avondale School for Christian Workers, Malama enrolled as a student and assisted with translation work. Upon the Steeds’ return from Samoa, Malama also assisted Joseph Steed in printing literature in the Samoan and Niuan languages. Her work paid for part of her tuition; the rest was covered by donations from Seventh-day Adventist youth in Queensland.
Early in 1914 Malama returned to Niue to assist Ephraim and Agnes Giblett in mission work. She was to sail to Auckland, meet the Giblett family there, and continue with them to Niue. However, on arrival in Auckland all plans were altered. One of the Gibletts’ children became critically ill, and Malama was reassigned to assist Reginald and Emily Piper in pioneer evangelism among the Maˉori, mainly in the Tauranga area. Malama’s winsome nature helped break down a lot of prejudice, and she stayed there for approximately 12 months before returning to Niue.
In 1915 Malama started a self-supporting elementary school in Alofi, Niue. She was granted a missionary licence but it is unknown whether she received any payment for her work. The following year Septimus and Edith Carr came to establish a mission base. Septimus Carr built a chapel in which Malama conducted her school, and later, a sewing class for older girls. By 1928, the school had morphed into a Sabbath school class of about 70 children. Malama also held a youth class on Sundays. By that stage she was teaching classes in a government school throughout the week and translating reading primers for her pupils. There wasn’t a day when she wasn’t teaching.
Around 1923 Malama married a local trader named Alan Head and they adopted two girls, Ida and Edith.
Malama’s Sabbath school grew to well over a 100 children. She possessed a sweet singing voice and led the children in her translations of English hymns and tunes. Church members in Australasia regularly sent her supplies, including memory verse cards and picture rolls. A pedal organ was also donated from Australia in response to her request. Any tithe, offerings and mission appeal funds she collected were dutifully forwarded to Church headquarters.
In 1953 Malama sailed to Fiji to be part of a delegation to meet the royal visitors, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. In 1958 her services to education on Niue were recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list with a Member of the British Empire Award. Before Malama passed away on June 13, 1963, she donated a piece of land on which she supervised the building of a home for a resident Adventist missionary. Just three weeks before her death, she had the satisfaction of meeting the incoming missionary.
Milton Hook
Adapted from ESDA <encyclopedia.adventist.org/article?id=E7YL>
Generous women
Re: “Women’s retreat raises more than $A30,000 for children in Cambodia” (News, October 31). Beryl said it best: “This is a miracle. And it’s evidence that if we just put our foot in the water, God will open the floodgates and He will bless our efforts.” The Adventist Women NNSW are truly such an incredible blessing; our team has also been overwhelmed by how generous these women have been in supporting NightCare. Thank you for sharing their ministry and thank you to all the women who are living out their faith.
Asian Aid Australia, Facebook
Leaven, not gluten
In reference to the Record discussion on “Can we use gluten-free bread in the communion service?” (October 4 and November 1), I would like to point out two things.
Firstly, using only the very best stone ground wholemeal wheat flour has very little gluten and therefore the tiny piece of communion bread is so small it is inconsequential, not even mentionable. Very few would have an issue with this, if at all.
Secondly, God told the Israelites in Exodus 29:2 to make the show bread of wheat flour, oil and salt. Each ingredient represents something: oil represents the Holy Spirit and consecration; salt represents purity and wisdom; wheat represents God’s provision, spiritual nourishment
Conversations
and the eventual separation of the righteous from the wicked.
If anyone has a question about what bread Jesus used at His last supper, it was unleavened bread. Jesus died during the Passover week during which time there was to be found no leaven in any of the houses in Israel. They were to eat unleavened bread. If anyone had any leavening in their houses during the Passover week they were to be put out of the country. See Exodus 12:15,19,20,34;13:3,7,18.
1 Corinthians 5:6-8 indicates that leaven does indeed represent sin. If God saw this act of disobedience seriously enough to expel from Israel those who had leaven in their houses at the Passover week, then who are we to tamper with His instructions for the ingredients? Since God has given us instruction in His Word for the making of the show (communion) bread, it is not up to us mere mortals to change it. To do anything else is heresy.
Kristine Stahl, SA
Fulfilling God’s plan
I recently read the article “Samson: vacant heart, wandering eyes” (Living Covenant, September 20). I can’t agree with the underlying foundation of this article which appears to be that Samson’s wandering eye led him in the wrong direction away from God’s plan for his life (In the second paragraph the author says “His eyes led him in the wrong direction
many times, . . .” And in the fifth last paragraph the author refers to Judges 14:3 and concludes the paragraph with “His eyes pulled him away from God’s plan again and again.”)
However, when I read Judges 14:4 my Bible tells me, “His parents did not know that this was from the Lord. . .” This verse tells me that Samson was in fact fulfilling God’s plan and his eyes were used by God to further God’s plan rather than them pulling Samson away from God’s plan.
I’ve noted that when dealing with the story of Samson, many preachers and authors fail to grapple with Judges 14:4, which categorically states that Samson’s wish to marry the Philistine woman from Timnah was from the Lord. If I believe this verse in the Bible I have to also believe that Samson’s marriage to the woman from Timnah took place in accordance with God’s plan for Samson’s life.
Paul Rodionoff, via email
Inclusive curriculum
I should like to show appreciation to the team who put the new beginner (Alive in Jesus) Sabbath school [pamphlet] together for 2025. While it states it is for the one to three year olds, I have enjoyed the beautiful coloured pictures. It would be easy to adjust the words, if reading to older children.
Well done and thank you.
Matilda Ball, SA
Hearing in the silence
Idon’t know about you, but awkward silences in conversations make me feel, well . . . awkward. Often I will eagerly start talking to fill the void. When I think about it, sometimes that’s how I try to fill the silence I feel from God, too. I ask other people for their advice, I try to guess what purpose God has for me, and I distract myself instead of using the time to stop and pray and really listen. There have been times in my life where it’s felt like I’ve been waiting on God to open the next door and make His plans clear. But to be honest, I’m not very patient when it comes to waiting. Looking back, I wonder if those silent periods were moments where God was trying to tell me something.
In the silence
Despair, longing, hopelessness—these feelings have marked the prayers of countless people throughout history—and perhaps yours too. This is what we see in the prayers of Hannah, an Israelite woman who longed for a child and cried out to God to remove her barrenness. After years and years of what seemed like silence, God blessed her with a baby boy. This boy, Samuel, was an answer to her prayers.
Thankful for the gift God had given her, Hannah took Samuel to the tabernacle and dedicated him to be used by God. There, the priest Eli took on the responsibility of teaching and guiding him: “And the child Samuel grew in
stature, and in favour both with the LORD and men” (1 Samuel 2:26).
One night when Samuel was lying down, he heard a voice calling his name. Thinking it was Eli, he ran to him, but Eli replied saying he hadn’t called him. This happened two more times before Eli realised that it must be God calling Samuel. He instructed Samuel on what to do if it happened again, and Samuel returned to his place and waited. When the voice called once more, Samuel answered, “Speak, for your servant hears” (1 Samuel 3:10). God then shared with Samuel what He was going to do in the future.
As the story goes on, we see Samuel become a prophet of God, speaking to individuals like Saul and David on behalf of God and having a profound impact on their lives. What stands out is that God did not speak to Samuel amid the busyness of working and serving in the temple, but in the quietness of the night. Are we so preoccupied with our day-to-day lives—even with doing things for God—that we miss hearing what He wants to say to us?
Called to respond
Samuel heard God calling and then had to make the decision to respond. His reply, “Speak, for Your servant hears” (1 Samuel 3:10), shows that he wanted to know what God had to say. By calling himself a servant, he revealed a humble heart that honoured the One he was speaking to.
Even though Hannah was a God-fearing woman and Eli had committed his life to serving Him, it was Samuel to whom God revealed Himself. Being surrounded by faithful people, or serving in ministry ourselves, can never replace a personal, intentional connection with Him. Despite Samuel faithfully carrying out his duties in the temple, there came a point when he had to open his heart directly to God—and the same applies to us.
Eli’s sons worked in the temple yet their hearts were not fully committed. Their story challenges us to consider whether we sometimes do the same thing—serve out of obligation rather than willingly, with love.
It’s easy to perceive God’s silence to mean He must not be listening, must not be doing anything, must not be responding. Yet in Samuel’s case, it was in the silence that God drew near and got his attention. The same could be true in our lives. The quiet periods in our lives may be the very moments God is inviting us to increase our faith and trust in Him.
“Samuel, Samuel”—is God calling your name today? Is He trying to get your attention through the busyness of life, the endless responsibilities, the long list of selfexpectations? Finding intentional moments of silence allows us to hear what He has to say to us. What would being quiet with God look like in your life? What would happen if you found the time to be silent to listen to what God has to say to you?
What if it’s me
As I think about Samuel’s life and reflect on my own, I realise that maybe God hasn’t been silent at all. Maybe I’ve just been too distracted, too busy, too restless to hear Him. Maybe I haven’t put my phone down for long enough, lowered the volume of the music, or closed the door long enough to sit and listen.
I’ve noticed this recently since I started fasting and praying once a week with a few fellow church members. I haven’t been doing too bad with the fasting part, but finding the time to be silent, to pray and to listen has been far more difficult. There is always something to watch, always dishes to clean or clothes to put away. I’ve found it hard to just be silent.
If we’re not intentional about being still and making time to be with God, it makes sense that we will miss what He is trying to say to us. We will miss spending time with Him.
Many of us have become accustomed to instant messages, fast postal deliveries and 24/7 entertainment. All of this can make silence alien to us, boring and sometimes even uncomfortable. Our Bible readings and prayers can start to follow the same cadence, becoming rushed as we hurry to “live life”. Yet when our health deteriorates, job applications fail or relationships become strained, we often want a quick solution. We want God to do something so we don’t have to endure the pain and the waiting. We treat Him like an occasional companion, only turning to Him when we need Him.
That’s not the relationship I want with Him. I want God in every part of my day. I want my thoughts and desires to be aligned with His will. I want His love to be evident in the life I live. And that begins with taking the time to be with Him, to sit still and to listen. Because I know that God is always sustaining me, working everything for my good— even in the silence. How might your life change if you also made the time to truly stop and listen to Him today?
Jöelle Weekes is originally from South Africa and now lives in Kingscliff, Australia, where she serves with the ARISE discipleship program.
Reframing the wilderness
If you wanted to discourage someone from reading a book, you might consider calling it “Numbers”, which is about as inspiring as “Telephone Directory”. Of course, if you were into number theory or mathematics you may feel differently. Yet despite the somewhat uninspiring title of the fourth book of the Bible, there lies within it a significant and surprisingly relevant message for today.
The names given to the first five books of the Bible were derived from the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, that Jesus would have been familiar with, called the Septuagint. These names were descriptive titles based on the books’ themes or content rather than the names from the translated Hebrew Bible. “Numbers” comes from the Greek Arithmoi, which was chosen because of the two major censuses the book describes. However, the names for the first five books in the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Pentateuch or Torah, were derived from key words or phrases in the opening verses of each book. While using a thematic name for each book seems sensible, it risks redirecting thoughts that may have existed in the original titles.
So, what is the Hebrew name of the book we call “Numbers”? Interestingly, it is called Bemidbar, which means “In the wilderness”, even though the book contains a diverse array of elements. These elements include narratives, laws, census lists, itineraries, vows, purifications, sacrifices, sundry battles and rebellions. The book even features a misguided prophet with a talking donkey! Over the years there have been several attempts at making sense of the haphazard subject matter contained in the book with varying degrees of success. However, one relatable concept was developed by theologian and author Dennis Olson who suggested the entire book is a transition from “The Death of the Old and the Birth of the New”1 This division splits the book into two main parts separated by the census at the start and the end of Israel’s wilderness experience (Numbers 1, 26).
The rebirth from “Old to New” for Israel was difficult as revealed by their sometimes chaotic relationship with God throughout the book. Yet, in the end, they became the structured and coherent assembly that Balaam, the prophet
astride his talking donkey, tried in vain to curse. God effectively took a group of slaves, captivated by Egypt’s spiritual chaos and enticements, and transformed them into something unique and new.
So, beyond its linguistic history, the Hebrew title reveals something profound about how God shapes His people. This transformative wilderness experience is more than just an inconvenient historical detour. It is a timeless space for renewal that modern society often subordinates to instant gratification and public acclaim.
The wilderness as preparation:
One commentator suggests that “Our lives are lived mostly in the long and ordinary stretches of wilderness, not in the revelations, epiphanies and dramatic moments of Exodus.”2 Sadly, we are often led to believe our lives are only valuable when impressive to others. Modern culture acts like a form of slavery, with its endless pursuit of approval. This false narrative ignores the wilderness entirely. Instead, it drives us into a hyper-competitive spotlight where our lives are defined by unending “revelations, epiphanies and dramatic moments”—measured by views and likes.
The book of Numbers shows us that the purpose of life is not derived by the sum of our highs, but from the meaning we find as we roam through the wilderness! Indeed, it was through the wilderness, not on the farm or in the city, where Israel matured from childhood into God’s representatives. As such, instead of understanding Israel’s wilderness experience as punishment, it might be helpful to reframe it as preparation. The wilderness was a vehicle to teach patience and reliance in the covenant-faithful God Who guided Israel.
While stretches of wilderness can be long and ordinary, life in the wilderness can sometimes slap you in the face, emerging as a crucible of challenge and temptation. Israel’s experience was not a mere footnote. As suggested by Olson, it highlights the wilderness as a place of painful rebirth where the inconsistent frailty of humanity collides with divine aspirations. It is through the lows that the “death of the old” occurs, paving the way for the birth of the new.
Most of us would prefer not to go through the wilderness. Even Israel would have preferred to enter the Promised Land without going through the wilderness. Yet, when we review the history of Israel as they traversed the wilderness, the purpose of that experience becomes more evident. Psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl understood this principle when he observed that suffering ceases to be mere suffering when it finds meaning.3 Indeed, Israel’s experience not only had meaning and purpose—revealing something about God and Israel—but shows that going through the wilderness is both uncomfortable and necessary.
Apparently, the wilderness is where you get close to
God, and according to the book of Numbers, that’s not always a walk in the park and takes time. Incredibly, it was in no-man’s-land where Israel had their most intense and sustained encounter with the transcendent God of the universe. In other words, to encounter the God of everywhere, you need to be nowhere!4
It is the desert’s silence that amplifies God’s voice. This is hardly surprising when we consider Jesus spending time in the wilderness prior to His earthly ministry. Not to mention Elijah confronting the still small voice in the wilderness after the euphoric victory over Baal’s prophets on Mt Carmel (1 Kings 18,19). Interestingly, it was after that wilderness experience that Elijah was ready for the fiery chariot ride to the real Promised Land.
Lessons for today:
If our lives have become so focused on the highs, it might be time to take an intentional wilderness detour and unplug from the deafening noise of daily life. We can foster encounters with the transcendent God in simple ways. Try a daily quiet time or a retreat. You could even do a tech fast, inspired by the camping imagery in Numbers.
There may be a temptation to call this “boring”. However, instead of negatively framing this experience, let’s reframe it as an opportunity to take a wilderness jaunt; after all, boredom is the cradle for creativity. Indeed, what if your next “wilderness” moment changes everything?
And when our wilderness wandering includes real trials—like loss or doubt—don’t forget the same God who guided Israel through the wilderness is still active today. As suggested by Frankl, we can draw meaning out of mess and turn temptation into testimony. In the same way, God guided Israel’s experience, turning nomads into nation.
So, let’s reflect on this “book of wilderness”. It includes a divine call to embrace “boredom” in the holy realm of undistracted communion with God. In doing so, we can rediscover and apply the book’s hidden message. The wilderness served as God’s tool to transform a chaotic group of slaves into His people called to reflect His character and government. Ultimately, entry into the Promised Land was only possible through the wilderness.
Boldly step into your wilderness today.
1. Olson, Dennis. 1985. The Death of the Old and the Birth of the New: The Framework of the Book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Brown Judaic Studies 71. Chico, CA: Scholars Press.
2. Prager, Dennis. 2024. The Rational Bible: Numbers: God and Man in the Wilderness. Washington, DC: Regnery Faith, 4.
3. Frankl, Viktor. (2006). Man’s Search for Meaning. Beacon Press, p. 113.
4. Sacks, Jonathan. Numbers: The Wilderness (Jerusalem, Israel: Toby Press, 2017).
Randall Ibbott
Wedding
ADAMS—KIRKWOOD, Peter Michael Adams (Toormina, NSW) and Elizabeth Michele Kirkwood (Coffs Harbour) were married on 21.9.25 in Boambee Valley in the presence of siblings, children, grandchildren and close friends. Peter and Michele first met 17 years ago and have been special friends through the years. They’ve now decided to take their relationship to the next level. Both are active members of the Coffs Coast church and will now make their home together in the local area.
Bob Manners
Obituaries
BURGESS, Ruth Elizabeth, born 5.9.1935 in NSW; died 6.10.25 in Avondale House Nursing Home, Cooranbong, NSW. In 1955 she married Donald Turner who predeceased her; in 1994 she married Donald Burgess who predeceased her in 2018. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer and Lary Schur (Cooranbong); son, Kevin Turner (Belmont); five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ruth worked at the Sanitarium Health Food Company and as a nurse at Charles Harrison Nursing Home. She was strong of faith, supported charities with her cloth making skills and lovingly visited the lonely. She will be missed by family and friends.
(Murwillumbah, NSW); grandchildren, Nicolas, Lachlan and Travis; and great-grandchild, Kalea. June worked tirelessly at Sydney Adventist Hospital for many years in the cardiac ward, pharmacy and nurses’ residence. Her love and compassion for all she met was God’s work in action. At rest now until that day she is called up yonder.
Steven Magaitis
HIGGS, Robert John, born 23.7.1944 in Camden, NSW; died 16.9.25 in Avondale House, Cooranbong. Bob was married to Judith Dawn (nee Cappe) and is survived by daughter Rebecca and husband Shane Winfield (Cooranbong); son Joshua Higgs (Yarrabilba, Qld); grandchildren Ronan, Aylish, Caelan, Orran, Conall, Zachary, Jayden, Mylo and Shalayla. Bob loved to walk in the ways of the Lord and now quietly waits for His return.
Neville Doherty
MAJOR, Douglas, born 22.3.1933 in Subiaco, WA; died 14.10.25 in Hollywood Hospital, Nedlands. Doug is survived by his wife, Maxine; children, Sue, Janine, Peter and Nicole. Doug passed away peacefully aged 92. Dearly loved husband and devoted dad, there are no words to describe how much he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Roger Nixon, Lary Schur
DAVIS, June Pamela (nee Yates), born 6.2.1938 in Maitland, NSW; died 31.8.25 in St Leonards. June was predeceased by her husband, Lyle. She is survived by her daughters, Narelle (Coffs Harbour) and Carmel (Sydney); son, Michael (Brisbane, Qld); brother, Gordon
SIDNEY, Kerry
Lee (nee Webster), born 21.12.1951 in Midland, WA; died 21.5.25 in Kalamunda. Kerry is survived by her husband, Graham; children, Sandra O’Hara and Calvin Sidney; and four grandchildren. She lived a life of service as a nurse and had a big heart for her church family and for those in need of help and Jesus.
Gary Webster
THOMSON, Eleanor (nee McDonald), born 13.10.1934 in Wanganui, NZ; died
26.7.25 in Cooranbong, NSW. She was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth in 2019 and her grandson, Dillon in 2013. Eleanor is survived by her son, Laurie (Armidale); daughter, Wendi Herman (Cooranbong); brother, Errol McDonald (Cooranbong); and twin sister, Margaret Barker (Gold Coast, Qld). Eleanor, as an outstanding teacher, was greatly loved by her many students in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the United States. Above all, however, she is remembered as a loving wife and mother.
Lyell Heise, Norman Hurlow
WINCH, Pastor Colin Morris, born 2.7.1932 in Toowoomba, Qld; died 12.9.25 in Cooranbong, NSW. Colin was predeceased by his wife, Melva, in 2023. He is survived by his daughters, Kerry Hawkes (Gympie, Qld), Carol Davis (Mandalong, NSW), Nerolie Baron (Wingham), and son, Christopher (Cooranbong). Colin will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.
Kenn Duke
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Positions Vacant
VARIOUS POSITIONS—ADVENTIST SCHOOLS VICTORIA
VICTORIA
Adventist Schools Victoria (ASV) is recruiting for more than 30 teaching, leadership and support positions across our six schools and early learning centres for 2026. Key positions include: early learning centre manager and teachers; learning and teaching coordinator; maths teacher; primary teachers; and deputy head of primary. Some of the many benefits of working for ASV include: work in a genuinely Christ-centred learning community; staff discounts on tuition fees; opportunities for career growth; lower student-teacher ratios and strong early career teacher support; paid professional development opportunities; and relocation support for successful applicants. Apply or refer someone today at <asv.vic.edu.au/careers> or contact <asvhr@adventist.org.au> for a confidential conversation.
CHEF/MANAGER —MANNA HAVEN CAFE
BYRON BAY, NSW
Manna Haven Café, an award-winning, faith-based, vegetarian lunch restaurant nestled in beautiful Byron Bay, is seeking a full-time chef/ manager. Do you have proven commercial culinary experience, a creative flair for plant-based cuisine and a fun, welcoming spirit to serve guests from around the globe? Please keep reading! We’re looking for a committed leader who has an outgoing love for God and all people—this is the heart of everything we do. We’re looking for someone with proven leadership skills to train, inspire and empower an awesome team, solid experience in commercial kitchen management, including menu planning, food safety, ordering and cost control, a drive for excellence in food quality, flavour and presentation, an ability to create excellent guest experiences and an interest in facilitating community health outreach events. Don’t just make food, make a difference for eternity. Visit <mannahaven.com.au/careers>.
Are you a woman who is currently studying or interested in studying ministry at Avondale University or Mamarapha College?
Apply now for the Australian Union Conference Women in Pastoral Ministry (WiPM) Scholarship!
Applications close 16 January, 2026
