Family roadshow empowers parents and leaders to be disciple makers 7
Adventist Record | April 5, 2025
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Results from our reader survey
Jarrod Stackelroth Editor
Going forward, one of our focuses is still to deliver regular news but to find new ways to do that for Pacific members, who now have more access to digital platforms.
In 2024, we surveyed our readers to better understand how you interact with Adventist Record. The survey revealed some helpful information that can help us shape the future of Record
And to answer head-on the question that came up as a concern on some responses: don’t worry, there is no plan to get rid of the print Record. In fact, support for the printed copy was overwhelming with 72 per cent of respondents saying their primary way of accessing Record was still the print edition. Responding to the question “How would you feel if Record was an online only publication”, 58 per cent of respondents said “No, having a physical magazine is an important part of church culture”.
So while there is no plan to stop printing, we are encouraging good stewardship of resources to minimise waste, which is why you may see notices in Noticeboard from time to time reminding church contacts to make sure the right number of magazines are arriving.
While 77 per cent of those 65 years and older read every issue (and this was the biggest demographic that responded), those in the younger generations are reading less. The biggest group who don’t read Record are respondents aged 18-24. However, for those aged under 35, 70 per cent still do engage with the print edition; more than half would like to see more video content; around half engage with web and social content and 70-80 per cent watch our video content.
Some of these statistics are similar to demographics outside of Australia and New Zealand, with 85 per cent of Pacific respondents saying they would like to see more video incorporated.
For a number of years now, we have operated in the digital space and we are certainly aware of the need to future proof the ministry. We are on multiple social platforms, as well as producing podcasts and video content. We’ve also produced two books, compilations of our Living 28 and Living Kingdom series.
Yet, the survey highlighted a need for Record to better reach certain demographics, including younger church attendees who are keen to see more video content and those in the Pacific Island nations, for whom the print copy has always been expensive and logistically difficult to provide.
Across all demographics, news was still the most popular function of Record. People could choose multiple sections for this question (up to three), however 67.3 per cent of people chose news as their most enjoyable section.
I can say we are receiving more news from correspondents around the Pacific and in 2024, we achieved an average of one news story per day uploaded to our website. This is no small feat with a small team, so thank you to all those who submitted and for the faithful work in our schools, churches and conferences/missions to move the work of the Church forward. Without you, there would be no news to report on.
Going forward, one of our focuses is still to deliver regular news but to find new ways to do that for the Pacific members, who now have more access to digital platforms. One thing we’ve discovered is that although we have many Facebook followers from Papua New Guinea, they are not translating into web traffic, as their data is for social media only. So, we’ve started a WhatsApp channel. You can now follow Adventist Record on WhatsApp, receive news and photos, without having to navigate to an external website. If you’d like to follow, scan the QR code. Another initiative we are looking at is providing a video news segment again—something that can be played in churches that are interested. While we do produce a news podcast, we are looking at making sure all our podcasts have video versions, to increase their reach.
All of this to say, Record is still committed to serving you. We are thankful to those who filled out the survey and helped us gauge where we are at. We are also grateful to you for reading, writing, commenting and sharing our stories and magazines.
Christian Mana
Glenn Townend
South Pacific Division president
I’m an observer of people. Most of my work is with people so it’s important I learn to watch for non-verbal clues and body language. The non-verbals are different in every culture and this makes observing people an interesting past time.
I notice the impact that certain people have when they enter a room compared to others. When people make speeches in committees and meetings—some get more attention than others. For those who command more attention, the Pacific people use the word mana. Others have the concept of respect, based on integrity. It’s a quality that shows a person has a good reputation and is respected, whether they are in a position of leadership or not.
The Bible does not mention mana specifically, but the concept is there. “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favour is better than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1, ESV). “A good name is better that precious ointment . . .” (Ecclesiastes 7:1, ESV). Experience, wisdom, an ability to get things done over many years, being able to succeed and be liked by people at the same time are elements of mana. “Keep your tongue from evil and lips from speaking deceit. Turn away from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:13,14, ESV). Christian widows were to have a good reputation (1 Timothy 5:10). This came from good works, hospitality and caring for others. Dorcas in Joppa (Acts 9:36), Lydia in Philippi (16:14), Joseph of Arimathea (Luke 23:50), Nehemiah—all had mana. When they spoke, others paid attention. Mana is destroyed by selfishness, arrogance, greed, self-aggrandisement, abuse of power, becoming controlling, losing humility–basically forgetting that we are all just humans. Mana originally meant that the person had a supernatural power which could be transmitted or inherited which gives moral authority. Today mana is used more for the influence and respect people have. Every Christian should have mana— the presence of Jesus in our lives. When we accept Jesus into our hearts, the Holy Spirit dwells in us: “Christ in us is the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:29, ESV). See also Romans 8:9,10, 2 Corinthians 13:5, Ephesians 3:17.
Disciples of Jesus should be people with mana. Do you have it? Do you desire it? Ask Jesus for it as we want to influence people for Jesus’ kingdom.
“Building trust” main focus of Digital Discipleship Conference
Gold Coast, Qld | Ashley
Jankiewicz
Around 110 people from nine countries gathered on the Gold Coast (Queensland) from March 14 to 16 for the 2025 Digital Discipleship Conference. Attendees were taught digital skills and strategies aimed to build trust and effectively communicate the gospel in online communities oversaturated with information.
The conference is designed for anyone working with digital media, as well as those interested in entering the field or seeking to further their skills to become more effective digital communicators. It also serves as a place to network and build connections.
“Digital Discipleship is a training ground, a place to learn what is happening in the digital space because it’s changing so quickly now,” said Jared Madden, Adventist Media marketing, sales and digital manager.
A variety of immersive plenaries and practical workshops were featured, with topics such as the power of authentic storytelling, social media strategies, building online micro-communities, podcasting, Adventist branding and identity,
hybrid ministry and foundations of discipleship. Panel talks and Q&A sessions with the speakers were also included.
Attending from Vanuatu, Pala Luen, Pathfinder director of a small community church, said she was excited to return and teach the kids about what she learned. “I could teach them how to write a testimony, how to do a podcast or make a reel.”
“This conference is really important because the digital world is where most of ministry is moving,” said Lorraine Atchia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM) personal assistant. Ms Atchia, who also does marketing and promotion for Mamarapha College, wants to shine a light onto ATSIM. “Coming here to find new ways to do so has been really interesting, especially with podcasts. We want to find a way to share our stories and for people to be able to listen to them.”
The conference ended with a commissioning, where attendees had the opportunity to lay hands on each other and pray, confirming the calling God has placed on their lives.
Adventists attend interdenominational worship summit in Fiji
Nadi, Fiji | Michael Qiokata/Alipate Gonerogo
The 2025 Worship Leaders Summit gathered 251 participants from Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, Australia and the United States at the Sofitel Hotel in Nadi and included representatives from more than 19 different religious backgrounds, including two young Seventh-day Adventists.
The annual gathering is organised by Pentecostal churches to bring together worship leaders from various denominations across Fiji and the Pacific.
“We were warmly welcomed and recognised as the first Adventist representatives in the history of the Worship Leaders Summit,” said Michael Qiokata, chaplain at Vatuvonu Adventist College.
The summit serves as a platform
for worship leaders to discuss ways to enhance their ministry and better serve people through worship.
“As Adventists, we are called to love and connect with all people while remaining firm in our beliefs and values,” said Mr Qiokata.
The Trans Pacific Union Mission is currently embracing the theme of “I Will Go”, with goals of sharing their faith intentionally in different spheres of life.
“Most of the time we are not practising the word ‘I Will Go’—many times we just use it in our own comfort zone but are not going out,”said Alipate Gonerogo an IT worker. “We need to go out to the world and mingle with people of different beliefs.”
Adventist Media communicators share insights about podcasting. [Credit: Charmaine Patel]
Minister Michael Qiokata (left) and Alipate Gonerogo (right) with one of the summit speakers.
Dr Elisapesi Manson.
New SPD education director to bring extensive experience
NSW | Juliana Muniz
An accomplished Pacific education leader has been appointed South Pacific Division (SPD) education director.
Dr Elisapesi Manson takes over from Dr Malcolm Coulson, after he was appointed Avondale University vice-chancellor in last year.
“We’re very pleased to have Dr Elisapesi Manson as the new SPD education director,” said Dr Coulson. “She is incredibly well qualified, very well researched, very articulate, a very good organiser. She’s also very familiar with our tertiary education system, which is key to this role, and has done a lot of work to help us develop quality in our schools and in our tertiary systems.”
With more than 25 years of service to Adventist education across the Pacific, Dr Manson has held various leadership roles and earned degrees from prestigious institutions, including the University
of Sydney and the University of New South Wales.
Most recently she’s been the education consultant for Adventist Schools in Tonga and has been doing significant work in the areas of Adventist identity and ethos in Pacific schools.
As a lecturer at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji, her research focused on inclusive education, cognitive psychology, mathematics education and gender equality.
Dr Manson has secured more than $A1 million in research and professional development grants, contributing to teacher training and inclusive practices throughout the Pacific.
Appointed by the SPD executive committee in August, it took some time for Dr Manson to relocate but she has now commenced the role, based at SPD office in Wahroonga, NSW.
CMF commemorates 50th anniversary
Wahroonga, NSW | Ashley Jankiewicz
A department of the South Pacific Division that helps churches and institutions manage their finances and resource mission opportunities has celebrated its 50th anniversary. Board members, current staff, former managers and chairpersons gathered to enjoy a meal, cake cutting, several speeches, a slide show and an office tour.
Cash Management Facility (CMF) serves as a charitable investment fundraiser that distributes investment revenue to churches and institutions to help fund disciple-making and mission activities.
Sharmila Saggurthi, accountant at CMF, explained how pooling funds together provided higher returns than would otherwise be possible if money was fragmented across many small bank accounts. “We help churches earn investment revenue that they can use to fund disciple-making programs,” she said. “If an individual church were to invest cash themselves, the return
would generally be smaller than what they receive when they pool their funds together with other Seventh-day Adventist Church organisations.”
During the celebration, former managers Ron Herbert and Virgilio Cadungog had the opportunity to say a few words about their time at CMF. They reminisced about the changes over the years and highlighted the people who have passionately made CMF such an effective ministry. Greer Jackson, the son of CMF’s founder Bruce Jackson, said a few words on behalf of his father, thanking the attendees for “continuing to run the relay for the benefit of the Church”.
Current CMF manager Paul Rubessa said, “The purpose of CMF is to breathe capacity and opportunity into mission. If we can steward God’s money prudently and wisely, then collectively we will have more resources available for mission—and that supports the work that Jesus asked us to do—to go and make disciples.”
Wahroonga,
From L-R: Ron Herbert, Greer Jackson, Virgilio Cadungog and Paul Rubessa.
Family roadshow empowers parents and leaders to be disciple-makers
Ringwood, Vic | Kymberley McMurray
Children and family ministry leaders, parents, carers and teachers from across Australia gathered during a two-week roadshow from January 31 to February 16.
The roadshow was a collaboration with The Worship Project, an Australian Union Conference (AUC) run initiative that inspires individuals and families to get involved in daily worship.
Special guest speaker Rachel Turner travelled across seven conferences, visiting 15 locations including schools, to speak about topics such as household worship and empowering parents to be disciple-makers at home.
Ms Turner is the discipleship pastor at Hope Church Harrogate in the UK, and the founder of Parenting for Faith. She is the author of 10 books for families, parents and church leaders, including her new release Parenting Teens for a Life of Faith
Ms Turner lectures on leadership and intergenerational church at multiple theological colleges, and also consults and speaks internationally.
During her presentations, she used her resource “Parenting for Faith” to equip and encourage those in attendance to help kids and teens develop a lasting relationship with God.
AUC women’s ministries and resource development director Pastor Sylvia Mendez said Ms Turner is a dynamic speaker and communicator. “She empowered parents to recognise they are best placed to help their children become God connected just by modelling their personal faith walk with God authentically. We are so glad that we could bring Rachel to Australia.“
A parent who attended one of the events commented, “What great presentations and very relevant to me and my family. I loved it and will work on implementing the five tools with my family.”
WA Conference discipleship ministries team leader Jody Eddy said, “Guiding kids into a deep and loving connection with God is something many parents long to do. I valued what Rachel shared as it was inspiring but also incredibly practical. Other parents shared with me how they felt empowered to share their faith with their kids in ways they had never thought of before.”
To access more resources or learn more about worship, visit <theworshipproject.org.au> or download The Worship Project app.
making headlines
New shoes, new smiles
For the second year in a row, AdventHealth has partnered with the national nonprofit organisation Shoes that Fit to provide more than 1500 new pairs of shoes to primary school students in Kansas, USA. Worn out shoes can result in bullying, absences from school and lack of participation in sport. This initiative ensures students can go to school ready to learn.—AdventHealth
Rebuild the Altar
More than 10,000 Pathfinders from 11 countries across the Southern AsiaPacific region gathered in the Philippines for a Pathfinder Camporee. Themed “Rebuild the Altar”, the event’s mission was to encourage young Adventists in their relationships with God and empower them as witnesses for Christ.—SSD
Never too late to read
More than 1000 adults have graduated from an ADRA literacy program in Opico, El Salvador. Local church leaders and family members attended the graduation ceremony, along with Church and government officials who highlighted the value of such a program, as it’s the only one of its kind in the country.—IAD
Titanium heart
An Australian man became the first person in the world to be discharged from hospital with an artificial heart. Powered by external batteries and able to pump blood with magnetic levitation technology, the device served as an alternative for 100 days until the patient received a donor heart in March.—ABC News
Special guest speaker Rachel Turner travelled across seven conferences, visiting 15 locations.
Outstanding service
A distinguished career spanning over four decades has been recognised posthumously as Murray Chapman was honoured for his exceptional service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The South Pacific Division (SPD) formally acknowledged his contributions with a citation presented by SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend to his wife, Muriel, and daughters, during a meeting of the Division Executive Committee. Born on October 3, 1959, Mr Chapman dedicated his life to education, leadership and safeguarding within the Church until his passing on February 11, 2025. The citation commended Mr Chapman’s “exceptional and dedicated service” to the Seventh-day Adventist Church over 43 years. On behalf of her husband, Mrs Chapman thanked the SPD, sharing, “It was always just his wish to make this Church a better place.”—Tracey Bridcutt
Retaining new members
Following the PNG for Christ evangelistic program, churches in Papua New Guinea have faced the challenge of retaining newly baptised members. In response, New Britain New Ireland Mission president Pastor Andrew Opis has been conducting pastoral visits to train church leaders on discipleship and retention strategies. From February 25-28, Pastor Opis visited Lasigi church in Konos District, New Ireland Province, where pastors, Volunteers in Action (VIA) and disciple-makers participated in retention training and evening worship meetings. The training focused on Bible study, preaching techniques, church visitations and leading Sabbath school classes. Adventist health professional Conrad Stanis also presented on lifestyle diseases, concluding with a spiritual application.—Paul Bopalo
Better management
A group of 33 treasurers and assistant treasurers from 22 local churches in the North New Zealand Conference (NNZC) gathered on March 9 for training on the Adventist Church Accounting System (ACAS). The session aimed to equip church treasurers with financial management skills and a better understanding of ACAS. “This was a great opportunity to support our treasurers in their work,” said NNZC assistant accountant Hoang Le-Kimani.—Plugin
Breaking ground
The community of Sumumini in Vanimo, Sandaun Province, Papua New Guinea, gathered on February 2 to witness a groundbreaking ceremony for Sumumini Adventist Junior High School. The first phase of the project has already commenced, with land clearance currently underway. According to Lancedown Wirise, Adventist Education director for Sepik Mission, plans are now set for the second phase, which involves constructing classrooms and other essential facilities.—Lancedown Wirise/ Jarrod Stackelroth
Record attendance
This year’s North New South Wales (NNSW) Prayer Conference saw record attendance, with more than 900 delegates gathering at Yarra Holiday and Adventure parks in Stuarts Point from February 27 to March 2. Since launching in 2016 with 120 attendees, the event has grown significantly, with this year’s program attracting more than 400 first-time participants.
NNSW prayer coordinator Charissa Torossian noted the increasing engagement in the conference. “It’s encouraging to see so many people hungry for a deeper connection with Jesus and a revival of prayer,” she said.
Themed “Power Unlimited”, the conference featured guest speakers Pastor Pavel Goia, editor of Ministry magazine, and Melody Mason, a prayer coordinator at the General Conference. They emphasised the importance of prayer, surrender and “seeking the outpouring of the Holy Spirit”.
Many delegates shared testimonies about the challenges they faced in attending the conference. According to Mrs Torossian, health issues, car troubles and financial difficulties created obstacles, “but God’s providence was evident throughout”.
On Sabbath afternoon, the community outreach program, introduced at last year’s conference, returned with 30 volunteers visiting Stuarts Point and Macksville to offer prayer and distribute literature.
The children’s program engaged more than 100 children, led by NNSW children and family ministries director Colleen Savage. Themed “Experiments in Faith”, it featured interactive activities, music and storytelling.—Megantha Kiruwi
Ministry together
For the first time, spouses joined ministers at the Solomon Islands Mission (SIM) Ministers Conference. Held in Honiara from March 4 to 9, this year’s event aimed to encourage and support them in their roles as ministry partners. A total of 372 participants attended, 299 men and 73 women, representing most of the provinces around the country. According to a SIM statement inviting spouses recognises “their crucial role in ministry and support”. The gathering was “a time for spiritual renewal, learning and recommitment to God’s mission”. The conference’s theme was accepting God’s calling to go wherever He leads.—Olivia Fairfax
New year, new goals
Pacific Adventist University (PAU) commenced its academic year with a combined Convocation and Graduation Ceremony held at its Koiari Park campus on February 24. The event celebrated the achievements of 13 undergraduate and three postgraduate students. Notably, two of the postgraduates are current employees of PAU. As well as officially launching the academic year, the School of Research and Postgraduate Studies announced the launch of a new PhD program in Education and Business to begin this year. In his address, vice chancellor Professor Lohi Matainaho encouraged students to embrace the opportunities presented to them. “As you embark on another year of learning and discovery, we want you to make the most of the opportunities—to apply and challenge yourself to work hard and succeed in your studies,” said Professor Matainaho. “PAU is committed to helping achieve your dreams.”—Kym Piez
The Sparrow
“And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop”
Psalm 102:7
So sung the psalmist, and so sing many of us as the closest one to us is snatched away, never to be seen again except in the portrait gallery of our heart.
Humans are a composite creation and no-one can deny that our emotions are an integral part of us. But when our spouse is no longer in our house, when there is no phone call or no knock at the door, we can feel very much like the psalmist’s sparrow, “alone on the housetop”.
But we may be encouraged, for in Psalm 84 the sons of Korah, in telling “how lovely is your tabernacle” continue by saying, “Even the sparrow has found a home and the swallow a nest for herself.” So we can be cheered when we think that the humble little birds are cared for by their Creator. So why should not God care for us who are made in His image?
Still, God does expect us to do for us, for each other, what we can do and not leave everything to Him as though we were not able to help bear the burdens for someone struggling. And it was Paul who stated in Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
The world can be a lonely place when by ourselves for any of a number of reasons. We can sympathise with the sparrow, alone on the housetop, for even these humble birds are not meant to be alone.
Sociologists tell us that loneliness is one of the curses of our age and while most of us destined to live alone have one or more close friends, there was only one who could share with us life’s intimate moments. Even Jesus, commissioned to bring salvation to humanity, who bore more pain and torment than we will ever have to bear, drew lessons from the sparrow. They were humble little birds, He said, but God saw when one of them fell to the ground. So that, in telling us we are of more value than many sparrows, we can extrapolate from that, and realise that God is aware of all aspects of our lives and when on the day that marks our final fall, He notes our passing, preserves our identity and, if His true child, will raise us up at the last day.
In the new world, about which we are told of some of the larger animals that will be there, I am sure we will see the humble sparrow flitting about, and alighting on our shoulder, twittering that they are not alone any more on the housetop, or anywhere else for that matter. Nor shall we be ever again.
William Ackland is retired in Cooranbong (NSW) and has written eight books.
Jonathon Ginn says he stumbled into the wedding industry. He took violin lessons growing up and busked in shopping centres in the Newcastle and Central Coast areas (NSW) and had several couples ask him to play for their weddings. After the COVID pandemic, as the world began moving away from cash, Jonathon struggled to make money busking and started searching for other options. He moved to the Gold Coast, set up a website and began advertising as a wedding violinist. Slowly, bookings started coming in. “There is something special about a stranger trusting you to play them down the aisle,” Jonathon said. “I really liked how the violin could set a romantic tone for wedding ceremonies and canapes.”
However, 60 per cent of weddings occur on Saturday. Jonathon believed in the importance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and a day to spend time with God, but very early on, he realised that by refusing Saturday weddings he was not only relinquishing jobs to his competitors but missing out on the highest paying wedding bookings. His record is turning down six Saturday wedding requests in a row, without getting another booking in between. However, Jonathon would have chosen to give up the wedding industry before giving up Sabbath. Declining so much work has caused him to search the Bible for a better understanding of the Sabbath and why he should keep it. His job becoming intertwined with his faith, Jonathon learned he had to rely on God for his business and began trying to view any booking received as a blessing. Jonathon remembers a time in 2023 when he turned to God after not having had a booking in about a month and wondering if it was worth it to work in an industry that seemed nearly impossible for him. He said, “I remember having to humble myself before God and remind myself that any work that I do get is a blessing from God.” Thirty minutes after his prayer, he opened his computer to see a request that had
The wedding player who won't perform on Sabbath
come through from an upper-class high budget weekday wedding, the highest paid booking he had had at that point. Within the next two days, he had another wedding booked.
Jonathon’s business continues to grow. Having just completed his studies in osteopathy, he plans on working parttime as an osteopath as well as playing for weddings. He has engaged with social media—something which has pushed him outside his comfort zone—and now has a following of 3000, with several videos receiving more than a million views. He is open on his social media about his faith and why he doesn’t play for Saturday weddings. Through this, he shares his beliefs with others, as well as connecting with other Adventist wedding vendors who have felt encouraged by his openness and struggles as a Sabbath-keeper within the wedding industry. Also, at each Saturday wedding request, Jonathon will explain why he is turning the booking down and why he doesn’t work Friday sunset to Saturday sunset.
In 2024, Jonathon played for 33 weddings and seven events, as well as having 28 already booked in 2025, a year that promises to be his biggest year yet. Recently, he won an award for best wedding instrumentalist for 2024 in Queensland, a considerable achievement within the wedding industry and something that will help further his career in this area.
Sometimes keeping the Sabbath can be difficult. For Jonathon, his challenges in the wedding industry showed him why the Sabbath was important, and how, with God’s help, his business could continue to grow. His story brings to mind Matthew 19:26, where Jesus says, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Wholegrains may help reduce the risk of heart disease
Getting enough fibre does far more
than keep you regular, it can also help look after your heart, brain and gut.
We are now also learning that some fibres may be better than others, especially when it comes to reducing inflammation naturally and lowering the risk of heart disease.
A study by researchers at Columbia University, USA, followed 4125 people for 26 years, tracking their diet and testing their blood. It revealed that eating more fibre helped to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
It’s not the first time the heart health benefits of fibre have been observed. A higher fibre diet has previously been shown to improve risk factors of heart disease, including managing cholesterol, blood pressure, weight and regulating blood sugars.
What’s particularly interesting with this study is that the researchers also looked at specific sources of fibre. Fibre can come from fruit, vegetables, legumes (dried peas, beans and lentils), grains, seeds and nuts, basically any plant food.
The researchers found that cereal fibre from wholegrains was consistently linked to a lower risk of heart disease and less inflammation, something they didn’t find in the fibre from fruit and veggies. While more research is needed, it adds to growing evidence that there is something very special about cereal fibre in wholegrains.
Why is Cereal Fibre So Good?
Our Sanitarium dietians explain that many of the cereal fibres and antioxidant compounds found in grains are unique
and often found in higher amounts than in any other plantbased foods. In the gut, they feed gut bacteria and deliver long-lasting antioxidant protection where it’s needed most, including to areas of the colon that are prone to cancerous changes.
Fibre, including cereal fibre, also helps the gut to produce short-chain-fatty acids, which may help reduce the risk of inflammation, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
The takeaway message–wholegrains can complement the goodness you get from fruit, veggies and other plant foods. By eating 2-3 serves of wholegrain foods each day, you can reduce your risk of developing chronic disease by 20-30 per cent.
So, look for ways to eat more wholegrain foods such as wholegrain breakfast cereals like Weet-Bix™, rices and delicious grainy bread.
TIP: Increase your fibre intake slowly, as a sudden increase in fibre may lead to abdominal discomfort associated with bloating. Make the switches to your diet gradually and remember to drink plenty of water!
For recipe ideas and research references check out the full article on the Sanitarium website.
Resilient faith
Following World War 2, the political climate in China underwent a great number of changes which resulted in difficult challenges for the Adventist Church.
Prior to 1949, the Adventist Church experienced unparallelled freedom in spreading its message and had around 21,000 Adventists across China.1 But in 1948 a new law required the registration of mission schools, prevented the Bible from being taught and prohibited any kind of religious instruction (Adventist Record, February 9, 1989). The work of the Adventist Church in China was forced to pivot significantly—relinquishing all foreign control, with all leadership positions in church administration, publishing, schools and hospitals being handed over.2 In addition, all financial ties were severed between China and the broader Adventist Church (Adventist World, SPD Edition, February 1995).
The early communist government in China was strongly advancing anti-imperialist rhetoric and introduced the Three-Self Patriotic Movement, which sought to erase denominations of Christianity by unifying them under one church which was regulated closely by the government to support their own political agendas. It was required that Seventh-day Adventists “shall abolish their daily morning prayers, and they shall work on the Sabbath. Their tithe system for the support of the clergy shall be abolished” (Gao 1996:347)3
Despite claiming that denominational structures were still functioning, and that Seventh-day Adventists were allowed to hold services on Saturday, this was far from the truth as experienced by many.4
Between 1966 and 1976, the Cultural Revolution began under Mao’s reign in China. With this revolution, communism rose to its heights and Christianity was abolished, erasing even the Three-Self movement. Believers who disobeyed were arrested, imprisoned and tortured for their faith, while Bibles and other religious writings were destroyed, and churches and Christian homes were looted.5 There was perhaps no more dangerous time to spread the gospel than during the Cultural Revolution, yet it was during this period that the gospel spread the most.
Many Christian church groups went underground and began to proliferate abundantly in secret small meetings to avoid detection. In one such gathering, a preacher noticed a lady at the front who was not moving. When he touched her, he realised she was dead! The small gathering was frightened of what would happen if the government found out, so they prayed and sang hymns and after 12 minutes, the lady opened her eyes and was restored to life. This miracle caused many to become believers in God.
Mao’s death effectively ended the Cultural Revolution. The Three-Self church was restored and Christianity was allowed to return to China. Underground churches were finally able to come out of hiding. In the Australasian Record on July 20, 1985, Brother Chang reported that for nearly the first time in 40 years, Adventists were legally permitted to worship in churches on Saturday. While the Three-Self Patriotic Movement still controlled religious practice, this was a major step towards freedom of religion.
By the end of 2000, 20 years after freedom of religion slowly started being reintroduced, the estimated membership of Adventists in China had grown to 297,232. According to a December 2019 CHUM Annual Council report, the number of Adventists has since grown to 472,107 members for China, Hong Kong and Macau!
There are now reportedly more than 100 million Christians in China, with China being among the fastest, if not the fastest, growing country in the world for Christianity. It is also home to the largest Adventist Church in the world. The Shenyang Beiguan Seventh-day Adventist Church has a membership of more than 7000 and was established and is led by a woman who is a pastor.
The growth of the Church in China is a testament to the faithfulness of those who continued to meet in the face of persecution, and the incredible work of the Holy Spirit.
2. Trevor O'Reggio and Jomo R Smith, Christianity With Chinese Characteristics: The Origins and Evolution of Adventist Mission in a Chinese Province, p9.
3. ibid.
4. ibid.
5. Zhang Lianming and Huang Yibing, “History of the ‘Three-Self’ Patriotic Movement (TSPM) and Its Impact on Christian Organizations”, Shanghai Seventh-day Adventist Church, China.
The original diet given to humans was a plantbased diet of seed-bearing plants (Genesis 1:29). Conditions quickly deteriorated after sin entered the world and that ideal could not always be followed.
After the fall of man, God introduced grain into the diet (Genesis 2:5; 3:14) and later permitted meat to be eaten, but only certain types of meat. The meat that God allowed is referred to as “clean” meat. The details of what is “clean” and “unclean” meat are found in passages like Leviticus 11. The designation of clean and unclean meat, however, was first made when God permitted animals to be eaten after the flood (Genesis 7:2, 8; 8:20).
Since this distinction predates Abraham, it cannot be exclusively attributed to Jews. It applied to everyone. Not only did meat need to be clean but it could not contain any blood in it when it was consumed (Genesis 9:4). When Christ’s apostles met to determine what was binding on Gentile Christians, one of the things they affirmed was that Christians should not eat blood (Acts 15:20,29).1
Clean meat was implicit in this decision because they recognised that Christians were getting acquainted with the writings of Moses during their worship every Sabbath (v21). These writings outlined what was permissible to be eaten and what was not. This is why later Paul was able to tell Timothy that those who believe and know the truth understand which foods were created by God to be received with thanks and which foods were not (1 Timothy 4:3).2 Like the other apostles, Paul referred to “the word of God” to define what was sanctified (v5).3
A cursory reading of the gospels has led some to conclude that Jesus did away with the distinction between clean and unclean meat and permitted His followers to eat anything.
Jesus certainly did challenge traditions. He affirmed the Scripture while confronting teachings that were not based on it. One of the traditions He challenged was the concept of “defilement through association”, where a thing that was clean by nature became unclean due to its proximity to something unclean. The Rabbis taught that if food which would otherwise be clean, became defiled if it was touched by a non-Jew.4 The Pharisees would wash their hands before they ate their food in case their hands touched something they considered defiled. If they failed to do so, the food they touched would transfer the defilement into them. In Mark 7:15-23, Jesus challenged this idea. He countered the Rabbinic terms: “common” or “defile”/“polluted”5 (depending on the translation) but was careful not to negate the biblical term, “unclean”.6 This is because He upheld the distinction between clean and unclean meat. Unclean meat is never considered food in the Bible
so if Jesus cleansed all food, He was not referring to unclean meat. Jesus declared that food did not lose its purity if it had come into contact with Gentiles or with hands that had touched unholy things. It is important to stress that Jesus did away with the teachings of the Rabbis (“your traditions” v13), not the clean/unclean designations of the Bible. It is not associating with Gentiles that affect one’s internal purity. Rather, it is what one dwells on.
The decision of the apostles in Acts 15, referred to earlier, points out that the followers of Jesus did not understand Jesus to have permitted the eating of unclean meat.
In fact, years after the cross-event7 Peter explicitly mentions that he had never eaten anything unclean (Acts 10:14). The context of this statement is a vision that God gave Peter to divest him from the non-biblical idea of “defilement through association” when it came to people. The rabbinical idea that Jews should not associate with nonJews created barriers to ministry. Peter did not want to mix with Gentiles in the spreading of the gospel. He thought that if he were to associate with a Roman centurion, he would be defiled.
God challenged this concept by showing Peter all kinds of animals gathered together and urged him to eat them.8 Instead of eating one of the clean animals, Peter exclaimed that he could not eat any of them (because the clean animals were together with unclean ones). The point of the vision was explained to him and Peter realised that he should not call “defiled’ that which God made clean (v15, 28).9
When Jesus sent out His disciples to declare the kingdom of God, He gave them instructions, including telling them to eat whatever they were served (Luke 10:8). Did this mean that Jesus condoned eating unclean meat if it was presented to them? There would obviously be some qualifiers to that as no-one would be expected to eat rocks or faeces should they be presented by someone hostile to the disciples. The areas these disciples were sent to included Jewish and Samaritan homes. Samaritans, like Jews, did not eat unclean meat so these disciples were not going to be served pork. From
the context of the passage, Jesus was encouraging His followers not to feel guilty for accepting hospitality even if it goes beyond basic necessities. He provided the reason for His statement and that was “for the worker is worthy of his wage” (v7). Christ’s missionaries should accept hospitality and enjoy the blessings that come with it along with the hardships.
An area where personal choice was promoted was the eating of food offered to idols and on the day chosen to fast (Romans 14:1-6). Some Christians interpreted Exodus 34:15 as a prohibition against eating meat that was sacrificed to a pagan god. Others did not see any issue with eating meat bought at a marketplace that had been sacrificed to an idol. They reasoned that since they were not involved in the worship ceremony during the sacrifice to that pagan god, they were not transgressing God’s law. Nothing was changed to the actual meat so there was no difference between meat from an animal that was sacrificed to a pagan god and meat that was not. There was no need to avoid such meat (Romans 14:1). One thing that needed to be considered was not causing offence to others (1 Corinthians 8:4-13). Paul argued that it would be wrong to eat food offered to idols if one thought that in eating such food they were worshipping that pagan god. It is also wrong to give onlookers such an impression. For Paul, however, he did not consider the meat negatively affected simply because it was offered to an idol before it was sold.
Scientific arguments have been presented to justify the biblical distinction between clean and unclean meat as the animals labelled as unclean tend to be scavengers and accumulate more toxins than the clean animals. Adopting the attitude that we need to understand the reason for God’s directions before we follow them is not biblical and removes the need for faith. In fact, it led to the fall of this world when Adam and Eve chose to follow what made sense to them instead of God’s instruction. We need to acknowledge that our knowledge is limited and that as our Creator, God knows what is best for us (Deuteronomy 5:29). His laws are not arbitrary but are an expression of His character
of love (Matthew 22:36-40). One day everything will be clear to us, but we are not there yet (1 Corinthians 13:12).
The New Testament challenges non-biblical traditions including matters relating to food. These challenges counter rabbinical teachings, not divine instruction. Neither Jesus nor His followers removed the distinction between clean and unclean meat that was given to all mankind. The prohibition against the eating of blood is also preserved. Modern Christians would do well to honour the divine order in all matters including food, for in doing so they will be giving God glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).
1. They affirmed that the Noahide covenant applied to all.
2. This passage was a warning against sects which thought it necessary to mortify the desires of the body.
3. The Greek word sanctify/holy is used in Leviticus 11:44-47 which refers to clean and unclean meat. This makes clean meat implicit in 1 Timothy 4:4.
4. E.g. Mishnah Sheviit 8:10.
5. The Greek word for “common” or “defiled” is koniow. This term is not used in the Greek translation of the Torah—The Pentateuch. This is why Jesus challenged it.
6. If Jesus was referring to unclean meats, He would have used the word akathartos in the Greek.
7. The death of Jesus on the cross could not have made unclean meat clean as there was no mechanism to do that in the model of God’s salvation activity—the sanctuary service. An unclean person could be made clean but not an unclean animal.
8. FF Bruce notes that “It has been asked at times whether Peter could not have killed and eaten one of the clean animals. But he was scandalised by the unholy mixture of clean animals with unclean.” FF Bruce, Commentary on the Book of the Acts (Grand Rapids, MI, 1956), 218.
9. If the point of the vision was to remove the classification of clean and unclean meat, the heavenly voice would have said, "What God has cleansed, you must not call unclean”. Instead, the voice says not to call it “common” (a term used by the Rabbis but not found in the Torah).
Emanuel Millen lecturer in Biblical Studies, Avondale Seminary.
Hosea's hurt, humanity's hope and God's heart
I’ll be honest, my experience finding love hasn’t been easy. I didn’t marry my childhood sweetheart or find my spouse at college. And while I’m happily in a relationship now, my journey hasn’t come without difficulty.
For someone who is quite accident-prone, nothing prepared me for the pain heartbreak would bring. I’ve had my arms in casts, lost skin to the bone and obliterated my teeth on concrete. I’ve seen lives lost to sudden tragedy, loss of hope and old age. I’ve walked through slums and seen poverty and corruption fall on innocent children. But heartbreak, unlike anything else I’ve experienced, walloped me.
To some, that might sound very dramatic. Maybe you’ve never been there, or maybe you have but comparatively recovered quite quickly. At the time, I even found myself wondering, Is something wrong with me? Though it turns out, I wasn’t alone.
Psychologists say one of the most profound wounds a person can experience is the wound of being rejected. “Heartbreak is one of the hidden landmines of human existence,” says Florence Williams, science journalist and author. “If you place someone who has
recently suffered heartbreak through a scanner, you will see parts of their brain light up that are very similar to the parts that light up after receiving a burn or an electric shock.” It can take weeks, months or even years for an individual to move past that pain, and it can have more ripple effects than a physical injury because of how long it can last.1
Among the documented downstream effects of rejection are heart palpitations, increased anxiety, poor impulse control, depression, cognitive decline and altered gene expression.2 For me, it was lack of appetite, fatigue, fragmented sleep, loss of joy and a queasiness in my stomach akin to being at sea in rough conditions—for months.
Then there are the emotional effects that can linger even once the pain has subsided: low-self-worth, attachment issues, a decreased capacity to trust people, hypervigilance to rejection, increased vulnerability to mental health issues, and this can even go on to have intergenerational effects.3
In rare and unfortunate cases, heartbreak can trigger a condition called takotsubo cardiomyopathy, commonly referred to as “broken heart syndrome”. Unlike typical heart attacks,
this condition doesn’t involve blocked arteries and can affect individuals who are otherwise well. The heart temporarily stops functioning properly, causing it to balloon in shape, which can result in chest pain, fluid in the lungs, cellular damage and, in rare instances, death.4
We don’t often think of God as someone who has experienced heartbreak. And while I don’t want to project human rejection wounds onto God, rejection is a definitive mark of His story throughout the Bible.
A man named Hosea
750 years before Jesus showed up on earth, God’s love for humanity was displayed through a man named Hosea. Some assume Hosea might have been a baker, others a farmer, but he’s most commonly known as being a prophet who lived in Israel during a time of great prosperity . . . kind of.
While things looked good from the outside, on the inside, the nation was spiritually bankrupt. The people had given themselves over to idolatry and were constantly breaking the Ten Commandments. As a result, severe injustices were occurring in their
communities. Hosea wrote that they had “ploughed wickedness”, “reaped injustice” and “eaten the fruit of lies” (Hosea 10:13). They were going to other sacred temples and turning to other gods for answers—all the while still offering sacrifices to God as if nothing was wrong. Their concept of love was convoluted, too. They believed it could be purchased, that it was simply the pursuit of self-gratification, and could be discovered with inanimate objects and material possessions.5
During this time, God gave Hosea a peculiar, slightly embarrassing assignment. He told him he was to be a speaker for Israel. But first, he was to marry a woman named Gomer. While many Bible translations describe Gomer as a prostitute, we don’t know if that is true. The original Hebrew word used to describe her translates to ”promiscuous”. It implies a lifestyle of habitual unfaithfulness rather than a single act of adultery. What is clear is that Gomer had a divided heart, just like the Israelites.6
For better or worse
I can’t imagine how Hosea must have felt marrying her. Weddings are typically one of the happiest days of people’s lives. It’s where couples feel giddy and excited for a future of loving and being loved into their old age. Nobody stands at the altar predicting that their dearly beloved is going to be unfaithful time after time. Yet Hosea did.
For a few years after they got married, things seemed to go okay, and the couple had three children. Until it happened. Hosea woke up, and Gomer was nowhere to be found. God came to Hosea and told him to go find her and pay off her debts to her lovers. “This will illustrate that the Lord still loves Israel, even though the people have turned to other gods and love to worship them” (Hosea 3:1, NLT).
Hosea was well-known by the people of Israel. They thought of him as a holy man, a prophet, a beacon of hope for their nation. In looking for Gomer, he would have gone where men of God were not expected—no doubt stirring suspicion, rumours and judgement.
We read in the story that Hosea had to buy Gomer, meaning she was in some form of slavery or bondage. He had to
pay for what was already his, using 15 pieces of silver (likely the equivalent of several months’ wages) and five bushels of barley (their staple food, which could have fed a family for months). Hosea brought Gomer home and cared for her as if she had done no wrong. Yet, even after his merciful response, she continued to be unfaithful. Each time, he would go find her, bring her back and love her as he had vowed to do.
Them and us
In Hosea 11, there’s a poem that paints a picture of God as a loving father who raised His son, Israel, and shared everything with him. However, as the son grew up, he rebelled and turned against the father, taking advantage of His kindness and generosity. In the poem, God is an emotional wreck. One moment He is filled with anger, the next He’s heartbroken, then overwhelmed with compassion, and then, forgiving. He cries out, “How can I give you up, Israel? How can I abandon you? Could I ever destroy you as I did Admah, or treat you as I did Zeboiim? My heart will not let me do it! My love for you is too strong!” (11:8, GNT).
The story of Hosea and Gomer is a symbol of how God rescued the Israelites out of slavery and entered a covenant with them, calling them to be faithful to Him. But they took the abundance He gave them and dedicated it to the worship of other gods. Each time, God pursued Israel and renewed His covenant with them, even while knowing they would continue to let Him down.7
But it is also a story about us. We all chase after lesser loves. Even the most dedicated followers of God have, at one point or another, had wayward affections, allowed other idols into their lives, and looked elsewhere for validation and attention. Still, God’s love, compassion and faithfulness for us has never changed.
Excrucior
Research indicates that approximately 85 per cent of individuals will endure heartbreak during their lifetime.8 It ranks among the most stressful and life-altering experiences a person can have, just below the sudden death of a loved one. “For as long as there has been literature,
writers have rendered heartbreak as akin to physical pain, and specifically to a kind of pain bound to the expectation of more pain. Catullus, a Roman poet, used the word excrucior—the particular and agonising feeling of being nailed up by your palms, exposed.”9
The heartbreak of God
If you’ve been blessed enough to be loved well by someone, you know the comfort and security it brings to life. If you’ve ever lost someone you loved, you know how discombobulating it is. That it can shake your world and inflict trenchant havoc on your mind and body. Jesus’ pursuit of humanity also came at an immense emotional and physical cost. One that cost Him being nailed up by His palms—excrucior. He didn’t hedge His bets just for those who would reciprocate. “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
When you feel what it is like to love someone who doesn’t love you back—that’s a glimpse of what it’s like to be God. We are the objects of His obsession. He deeply desires to be close to us. No matter how often we let Him down or chase after lesser loves, His feelings for us won’t change. He will search the darkest pockets of this planet to bring us home. Because He is crazy, can’t sleep, can’t eat, reach for the stars, over the fence, in love with us.
1. Williams, F (2022), Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey. WW Norton & Company.
2. ibid
3. Jon Tyson sermon: <youtube.com/ watch?v=Z4-MXx_HzPo>.
Zanita Fletcher assistant editor, Signs of the Times.
Ellen and God’s Love
Young Ellen Harmon was raised as a Methodist Christian. She was taught and believed that sinners who rejected God’s love would burn forever in hellfire.
As a result, young Ellen came to see God “as a tyrant, who delighted in the agonies of the condemned”.1 This article will examine what led to her changing her understanding.
Ellen Harmon was born into a world that was saturated in Christian thinking and ways of life. This was the time when the Second Great Awakening was sweeping New England, and religious fervour was at a high pitch. Robert, her father, was a lay-exhorter in the Methodist Church, meaning his function was between a deacon and an elder in our church today. Elements of the church her family attended were influenced by the “shouting” Methodists, with “hallelujahs” and “amens” a normal part of worship, along with recently introduced instrumental music.
The Accident
Ellen was about nine years old when she was struck on the nose by a stone thrown by an older student as she was crossing a park in Portland, MA. She was unconscious for three weeks as a result, and it caused at least temporary disfigurement to her facial features. She suffered serious health issues from this so that many of the visitors to her family home did not expect her to live. Some asked her mother, Eunice, whether she had talked with Ellen about dying and being ready for that. Ellen heard some of this and, desiring to be ready, prayed earnestly for forgiveness. She received peace of mind and loved Jesus, and wished that everyone would “have their sins forgiven and love Jesus as I did”.2 Years later Ellen would reflect on this terrible accident: “This misfortune, which for a time seemed so bitter and was so hard to bear, has proved to be a blessing in disguise. The cruel blow which blighted the joys of earth, was the means of turning my eyes to heaven.”3 She went on to add, “I might never have known Jesus, had not the sorrow that clouded my early years led me to seek comfort in him.” While the accident was a terrible trial for young Ellen, both in physical pain she endured and the
impact on her outward appearance—her father did not recognise her on his return from a business trip—it caused her to desire to be right with God and was the means of leading her to Jesus.
Conversion Experience
Ellen’s peace of mind did not last. Being unable to continue her education she complained against God and did not tell even her parents what mental and spiritual struggles she was going through. Ellen was afraid of death as she felt her spiritual life was dreadful. She longed for someone to tell her how to come to Jesus to be saved. Some months later she attended a Methodist camp meeting where she was challenged to come to Jesus as she was. She would find a Saviour ready to extend the sceptre of mercy even as Ahasuerus did to Esther.4 She went forward praying, “Help Jesus; save me or I perish!”5 There Ellen found peace and her burdens lifted. She was assured of her salvation because of Jesus who seemed so near and real to her. He understood her and her life situation.
But this again did not last partly due to conflict over her Millerite belief that Jesus was soon to return, and partly because of her misunderstanding of how Christians should live. She mistakenly believed that true Christians would have an experience that would affect them physically. In addition, she also believed they had to be holy in themselves in order to see God. Ellen saw that she lacked this experience, and this brought despair and darkness to her soul. She expected the fate of the condemned sinner, and to her at that time, it meant burning forever in the flames of hellfire. She thought “God delighted in the torture of His creatures”, and often wished she had never been born.6 This was partly due to the justice of God being emphasised at the expense of His love.
Two Dreams
Ellen recounts two dreams that bring this experience to a climax. The first pictured a temple with a bleeding lamb tied to a pillar that all who wished to be saved had to come to and confess their sins. Before she could do so, a trumpet sounded, and everything went black. She could hardly convince herself it was
only a dream. The second describes her being invited to see Jesus. She follows a bright being into a room where she finds herself in the presence of Jesus. Ellen knew right then that Jesus understood her situation, and, placing His hand on her head said, “Fear not”.7 Now she knew that Jesus knew everything about her; the mistakes and failures she felt were separating her from Him. She understood that Jesus loves even baptised sinners and desires them to come to Him just as they are.
Sharing
Now Ellen told her mother what she had been struggling with, and Eunice arranged for Ellen to visit Levi Stockman, a young Methodist minister. He assured her of the love of God in Jesus for all His children and this teaching was grounded in Scripture. She learned of the tender love of God for all humanity, and that this was why Jesus came to this world to be our Saviour. That was great news, and she wanted to share it with others. It was God’s love for her, that she had now experienced, that drove young Ellen to share with her friends. She prayed for them, visited them, desiring they should come to know the loving Jesus that she had experienced. This, she believed, was her duty, and it motivated her for the rest of her life.
1. Ellen G White, Testimonies for the Church, 4th ed., 9 vols. (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1948), 1:24.
2. White, Testimonies for the Church, 1:11.
3. White, “Notes of Travel,” Review and Herald, November 25, 1884, 1.
4. White, Life Sketches of Ellen G. White: Being a Narrative of Her Experience to 1881 as Written by Herself; with a Sketch of Her Subsequent Labors and Her Last Sickness Compiled from Original Sources (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, 1915), 22.
5. White, Life Sketches of Ellen G White, 23.
6. White, Testimonies for the Church, 1:25.
7. White, Testimonies for the Church, 1:29.
This article is part 1 of 2.
Mark Pearce director, Ellen G White/Seventh-day Adventist Research Centre, NSW.
So much to be thankful for
Re: Record Live, March 12 “How to pray without ceasing“.
Constant prayer for me is just practising the presence of God. Just having Him with you and talking to Him about almost everything when on your own. I do have more formal times too. One thing that really works for me x 5 per week days is talking to Him formally while on my “strider“ exercising, which is effortless—it just happens. It really works. I like to always start off with gratitude and praise, and I end with it too.
Also on my daily walks I thank Him for the beautiful flowers around or the sky or the birds singing or my health. I can see, hear and walk still and I am 80 this year so there is much to be thankful for.
Thank you for Record Live and the [Adventist Record] magazine and Signs of the Times. I enjoy them all.
Brenda Kinkead, via Messenger
Conversations
Shocking
Re: “Antisemitism: Have you checked in with your Jewish neighbour lately?“ (March 15).
I regularly meet with our Rabbi and Imam and their fears for their safety and the regular attacks to their places of worship and abuse towards their children just playing sports is heartbreaking. To them it is normal life in Australia; to me it was a shock.
Janet Lisa, via Facebook
Record issues delayed
Dear church members,
Please be aware that due to a machine breakdown in Warburton, Adventist Record may be delayed by a few days.
This will impact the March 29, April 5 and Adventist World (April) editions. It may also impact the May Signs but we hope the issue will be fixed by then.
The staff at Signs Publishing worked tirelessly to provide solutions and
have found a way to ensure Record will come out until the machine is replaced. Many churches may receive their issues on the listed date, however, some may receive them the week after. Australia Post has also flagged delays in areas affected by ex-Cyclone Alfred.
We appreciate your patience and understanding at this time. The online Record will still be on time and the weekly email can provide a PDF and all the news. Please let others know if they’re asking and share this information with church members.
Thank you for your support.
Adventist Record team
Struggling to fit
Beautiful encouraging message in “Third culture kids: where mission and identity clash” (Record Live, March 5).
Thank you for sharing to help those children that are struggling to find their way to fit in with life.
Annette Tanabose, via Facebook
Anniversary
PALMER Bob and Heather celebrated their 70th anniversary with family on July 28, 2024 in a lovely outdoor setting near Noosa, Qld. Celebrating with them were their three children and spouses, Gary and Lauren, Dale and Roslyn, and Jeny and Doug, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They received special congratulations from King Charles and other officials. Bob and Heather’s wedding was officiated by Pastor Gunther in Moe, Vic, on July 25, 1954 and since then they have enjoyed many travels together in and around Australia. Currently residing in Nambour, they attend the Nambour church.
Wedding
BRINSMEAD—JACKSON.
Ruben Oakley Brinsmead, son of Gina and Jon Brinsmead (Kingscliff, NSW), and Isabella Mia Raquel Jackson, daughter of Vernita and Greer Jackson (Central Coast), were married on 18.7.24 at Redleaf, Wollombi. Ruben and Bella met at NNSW summer camps, both content in serving, however, ended up forming a friendship in the coming months. They pursued each other in a long-distance relationship for a number of years travelling between Kingscliff and the Central Coast. They plan to live in the Kingscliff area. Ruben holds a teaching degree and Isabella holds a design degree.
Morgan Vincent, Harold Harker
Obituaries
BARRETT, Kenneth Geoffrey, born 16.7.1926 in Rockhampton, Qld; died 1.2.25 in Mowll Village Nursing Home, Sydney, NSW. He married Eleanor Davidson in the Woollahra church in 1952. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Fiona and Associate Professor Philip Spratt; grandson, Alexander Moller and wife Lora; great-granddaughter, Nina; step-grandsons, Brendan and Mary, and Simon; and greatgrandson, Thomas. Ken had a varied career: athlete, bookmaker, bricklayer and wharfie but the highlight was his years of ministry in the Victorian and Tasmanian Conferences. He served as dean of men at Avondale College for four years and was known everywhere for his humour and warm friendship. Ken died in the certain hope of the resurrection day.
PAYNE, Thelma Georgina (nee Reynolds), born 26.7.1939 in Bunbury, WA; died
7.7.23 in Perth. On 14.10.1959 she married Jack, who predeceased her in 2008. She is survived by her daughters, Christine and Colin McCarthy (Mildura, Vic), Jenni and Fred Plane (Oakford, WA) and Loretta Payne (Lake Coogee); grandchildren, Stuart, Katelin, Lloyd and Holly; great-grandchildren, Canon, Chase, Zoe and Jackson; sisters, Lawreen McIver and Elaine Johannson; and brothers, Lynton Reynolds and Sno Reynolds. Thelma was a caring, practical Christian lady whose love and compassion for others touched many lives over the years. She supported others personally, through her church and in her involvement with the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and her leadership for more than 25 years of the Fremantle Church Friendship club for seniors.
Andrew Skeggs, Garry McIver
SMITH, Sylvia Edith (nee Codling), born 14.3.1947 in Whangarei, NZ; died 31.12.24 in Carterton. She is survived by her husband, Ben (Carterton); son, Anthony (Wellington); and daughter, Annette (Arrowtown). “In the everlasting garden.”
Vern Parmenter
Sylvia was a much-loved wife, mother and grandmother. Judith Wigglesworth
TAYLOR, (Reginald) Dennis, born 22.2.1944 in Bega, NSW; died 14.2.25 in Byron Bay Hospital. In 1967 he married Juline Darko. Dennis was predeceased by his father, Reginald and mother, Kathleen. He is survived by his wife; children, Carlene and Andrew Gosling, Stephen and Peta, Joanne and DJ Wood, and Matthew and Shelli; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren, all very special to Pa. He established a successful nursery, distributing plants to all parts of Australia. At the time when the Mullumbimby church was overflowing, Dennis, along with several others, established the Ocean Shores church, building a beautiful structure. He served as head elder for 18 years and was known for his humility, loving kindness and leadership skills. Above all he loved his God.
Vern Parmenter
TELER, Julia, born 15.6.1926 in Kiev, Ukraine, died 26.1.25 in Westmead, NSW. Julia was predeceased by her husband, Czeslaw in 1992. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Sabina and Tony James (Mt Tomah, NSW), Lidia and Wladyslaw Kania, and Anne and John Pellizzer (Westmead, NSW); seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Julia grew up amidst communist persecution of Christians. She survived the Ukranian famine (1930s) and WWII. She glowed with joy when hugging her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Julia was known to express her gratitude to God for His goodness to her throughout her life.
Tony James
WILSON, Thora Anne (nee Clements), born 6.8.1938 in Wonthaggi, Vic; died 6.2.25 in Melbourne. She was predeceased by her husband, Stuart in 1998. She was also predeceased
by her daughter, Anne Stevens in 2023. Thora is survived by her son, John (Melbourne). Thora was a quiet and gentle lady who served her Lord as a wife and mother and longed for reunion with her deceased family when Jesus returns.
Barry Whelan
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VICTORIAN CONFERENCE CONSTITUENCY MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the next regular constituency meeting of the Victorian Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists will be held at the Pavilions Multi-purpose Hall, 141 Central Road, Nunawading, September 21, 2025. The constituency meeting will commence Sunday morning at 8am and conclude no later than 5:30pm. Delegates will be appointed in harmony with the constitution. The business of the constituency meeting will include presentation of administration and departmental reports, financial statements for the years 2021-2024, all business as required by the constitution and all matters as arising from the constituency meeting of 2025.
MARKETING COORDINATOR, ADVENTIST MEDIA WAHROONGA, NSW
Are you ready to take your digital marketing career to the next level in a role that combines creativity, strategy and purpose? Adventist Media is seeking a passionate and dynamic digital marketing coordinator to join our marketing, sales and digital team. This is your chance to help shape the digital presence of a forward-thinking organisation, driving engagement and expanding our reach across social media, email and digital platforms. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love crafting compelling content and have a knack for turning data into actionable insights, this is the role for you. With the flexibility to work from home part of the week, this position offers the perfect blend of collaboration and independence. Join us in Wahroonga, NSW and be part of a team that’s making a meaningful impact while staying at the forefront of digital innovation. Ready to dive in? Let’s create something extraordinary together! Email <corpserv@adventistmedia. org.au> for a copy of the full job description. The appointing body reserves the right to fill this position at its discretion and to close applications early. Only those who have a legal right to work in Australia may apply. Applications close April 6, 2025.
NOTE: Neither the editor, Adventist Media, nor the Seventh-day Adventist Church is responsible for the quality of goods or services advertised. Publication does not indicate endorsement of a product or service. Classified advertisements in Adventist Record are available to Seventh-day Adventist members, churches and institutions only. All advertisements, appreciation, anniversary, wedding and obituary notices may be submitted via <ads@record.net.au> or online at <record.adventistchurch. com>. Notices will not be reprinted unless there is an error of fact caused by Record staff.
