Planes, trains and outboard motors
One woman’s journey to St Louis 13
Adventists mobilise to offer support for domestic violence survivors 7
Adventist Record | August 2, 2025
ISSN 0819-5633
16 August 2025
EDITOR’S
NOTE:
United in mission
Jarrod Stackelroth Editor
Our message is based on hope and security, not anxiety and fear.
Once again, the General Conference has met in session, an event that happens every five years and brings people from all around the globe together to vote on policy and church manual changes, elect new leaders and share stories of mission.
Session brings a beautiful sense of united purpose, among a diverse multitude of people. The stories of mission can inspire and renew excitement in those who attend or tune in.
I met a couple from Botswana on the plane, who were attending as visitors. When I saw them later in the week, it was like seeing old friends, with bonds of shared belief and a common experience bridging cultural differences.
While GC Session often brings change with it, during the next five years, change may be significant, with the election of a new president after 15 years of Ted Wilson in the role. Erton Köhler, the first Brazilian president, was the youngest Division president and seems to have a different leadership style to his predecessor.
It is a stretch to base everything on Köhler’s first presidential sermon (on the second Sabbath of Session), however, I believe the message was crafted to emphasise what his priorities are.
Rhetoric does not guarantee follow-up, however, I’m optimistic that the new president brings a new style of leadership that is more open to innovation and collaboration.
The message was the same: the mission of the church must go forward.
“We must be grounded in the Bible and focused on mission,” he emphasised several times.
The call to mission was as strong as it has ever been. “If you are not committed to mission, you are like a firefighter who runs into a burning building just to fix a painting on the wall,” he said.
But the method of delivery was very different.
“Our message is based on hope and security, not anxiety and fear,” he said. “The direction the world is taking is not in our hands and not dependent on us.” If I can paraphrase what that meant to me, I understand him as saying we should spend less time fixating on end-of-the-world scenarios and trust that God is in control, and Jesus has already won the victory.
I’ve heard the old metaphor that the church was meant to be a hospital, not a museum, but Köhler provided a new one on the second Sabbath of Session. “The church is not called to be a warehouse but a distribution centre.”
We can spend a lot of time as a people, stockpiling our blessings and enjoying the fruit that comes from living Jesus’ way. But we are called to distribute those blessings to the wider community. Köhler said we should be people the “Holy Spirit would like to use as channels of blessings.”
Köhler has a background in youth and media flourished under his leadership in South America and seems to be keen to mobilise resources in those spaces.
He sounded the call to be “distinct but not distant”; to communicate the message “to the accelerated minds of our days.”
In all, it felt like a rallying cry to unite around mission rather than a list of how mission should be done to be effective. It felt like permission was given to try new methods and innovate, if the message was “grounded in the Bible”.
Leadership can set the tone for an organisation and the Seventh-day Adventist Church is no different. It is easy to be critical of our leaders and to read sinister motivations into their actions. Let’s pray for the leadership of the Church across the world, that they can be agile to respond to threats, proactive in innovation of mission and gracious in dealing with those who don’t agree. At your local church level, pray for your conference/mission leadership, for your local pastors and for your church elders. Look for ways to get involved and contribute to the mission. The GC Session offers somewhat of a reset. Let us take the opportunity to focus on what we can do to make a change in our own communities and to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in reaching our community. We might just change the world.
Avondale Experience
Dr Malcolm Coulson Vice-chancellor of Avondale University
The “roadmap” of Seventh-day Adventist educational philosophy has guided our schools, colleges and universities for over a century, and remains as relevant and as critical to our success as ever. Even a cursory review of the cornerstones of our philosophy reminds us that thinking—a core “graduate attribute” of Adventist education— is not just a virtue but vital for discernment in a post-truth culture.
Adventist education prizes redemptive faith development as the central element in a balanced, purpose-filled learning program. Bringing all these elements of learning together involves the mentorship provided by values-aligned staff who play the most important role in achieving success.
The evidence of true learning is found in the joy of service. The pursuits valued by modern culture have little in common with the deeper virtues and character-building qualities to be found only through a personal experience of service for others. This is what differentiates our education system and is just as critical today as it was for the school of the prophets.
The challenges of tertiary education are well documented in the daily news, but through it all, we see that God continues to bless Avondale. As we implement the Strategic Renewal Plan, we can celebrate the growth in enrolments in 2025, causing our dormitories to be near capacity. Assurances that Avondale has the capacity to offer quality, Christian education have come in the form of a five-year accreditation by the Adventist Accrediting Association and the seven-year re-registration period provided by Australia’s tertiary education assurance agency (TEQSA). Further recognition, from independent national surveys, has identified Avondale University as having the highest rate of full-time graduate employment in Australia. Continued endorsement by our graduating students is highlighted in recognition of the Education and Nursing programs as being consistently among the best in Australia. The role of research—exploring and advancing new ideas within our values framework—is also widely recognised, informing decisions and improving practice in all areas of life.
We receive great encouragement from messages reminding us that friends of Avondale are praying, uplifting, and supporting the work and workers at Avondale as we collectively prepare the future leaders of our community.
SPD officers returned
The South Pacific Division (SPD) administrative team has been returned to office at the 62nd General Conference Session. Pastor Glenn Townend continues as president, with Pastor Mike Sikuri as secretary and Francois Keet as CFO.
Pastor Townend, who has served as SPD president since 2015, was affirmed in his role on July 7. “Being asked to lead for a third term is humbling and challenging,” he said. “God and His people in the SPD can become a thriving disciple-making movement. The experience in PNG in 2024 can be adopted and adapted across our territory.”
Pastor Townend previously served as president of the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) and the Western Australian Conference. As SPD president, he has maintained a strong focus on mission and disciple-making, encouraging churches to implement the Harvest Model: preparing the soil, sowing the seed, cultivating the plant and harvesting the crop. He is married to Pam, coordinator of the 10,000 Toes Campaign for SPD Health. They have three children
and nine grandchildren.
Pastor Sikuri was returned as SPD secretary on July 8. Prior to his appointment to the Division in 2021, he was serving as president of the South New Zealand Conference (SNZC). He has worked in pastoral ministry, as Adventist Media manager for Fiji Mission, as a departmental director for the TPUM and as ministerial secretary for SNZC. He is married to Sara and they have four adult children.
“I feel humbled to be called to continue serving our Lord and the people of the South Pacific for another term,” Said Pastor Sikuri. “When I consider where we are as a Division and where we’re headed, we’re in an exciting place.”
Francois Keet continues as SPD CFO, a role he has held since 2021. Before that, he served as associate CFO for the SPD, CFO for the Australian Union Conference and the TPUM, and vice president of finance at Avondale University. He is married to Monique and they have four children.
SPD elects vice president and associate secretary
St Louis, US | Record staff
Pastor Maveni Kaufononga has been elected as the first vice president of the South Pacific Division (SPD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The appointment was voted during a meeting of the full SPD delegation attending the 62nd General Conference Session.
“It will be great to have an experienced leader who is strategic, a great communicator, spiritual and mission-focused to work alongside me,” said SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend.
Pastor Kaufononga has served as president of the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) since 2015. Prior to that, he held a range of leadership roles within the Union, including secretary, youth ministries director and special assistant to the president. Originally from Tonga, he has ministered across the Pacific, including as youth director in the Cook Islands—where his wife Annie is from—and as university chaplain in Fiji.
Although the appointment is effective immediately, he is expected to transition to his new role following the upcoming TPUM Session.
The SPD delegation also elected David Potter as associate secretary of the Division.
“David is an experienced administrator who has served in the Pacific and Australia,” said Pastor Townend. “He will focus on policy, systems and processes.”
Mr Potter previously served as general manager of SPD People Services and brings extensive experience in governance, compliance and organisational development. He has worked across various levels of the Church in the South Pacific, supporting both strategic planning and human resources functions.
He’s married to Lenore and they have two adult children.
St Louis, US | Record staff
Pastor Maveni Kaufononga and David Potter.
The returned officers and their wives at the SPD report presentation during the 62nd GC Session. L-R: Secretary Pastor Mike Sikuri and Sara, president Pastor Glenn Townend and Pam, CFO Francois Keet and Monique [Credit: Tor Tjeransen/AME].
PNG representation grows on Division Executive Committee
St Louis, US | Tracey Bridcutt
A new Executive Committee for the South Pacific Division (SPD) has been voted in by SPD delegates at the General Conference Session—and it marks a significant shift that reflects the growth of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM).
The new committee, which will serve for the 2025–2030 quinquennium, includes five additional representatives from PNGUM, increasing their number from 14 to 19.
“This is the only entity across the Division to receive additional representation,” said SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend. “It’s a deliberate acknowledgment of the rapid church growth and vibrant mission taking place in Papua New Guinea, particularly through initiatives like PNG for Christ.”
Pastor Townend affirmed the SPD’s commitment to supporting PNGUM. “We value the incredible contribution
of our members in Papua New Guinea. Their growth is not just in numbers, but in spiritual vitality and commitment to mission—and that deserves recognition and voice in decision-making.”
The General Conference has also allocated the SPD another person to be on the GC Executive Committee. The SPD voted to give this role to the PNGUM—further strengthening their voice at the global level. Geogina Puongo, the head of science at Kambubu Adventist Secondary School, will be the new additional GC Executive member. This gives PNGUM the strongest representation of any SPD Union on the GC Executive, with three members, compared to two from each of the other Unions.
The SPD Executive Committee comprises representatives from all Unions and institutions, including local church members, and will guide the work of the Division over the next five years.
New GC secretary, treasurer returned
St Louis, US | Marcos Paseggi/Beth Thomas/Juliana Muniz
Delegates at the 62nd General Conference (GC) Session elected Dr Rick McEdward GC secretary and Dr Paul Douglas will continue as treasurer.
Dr McEdward has served as president of the Middle East and North Africa Union Mission (MENAUM) since 2016. A lifelong missionary, he has ministered across the globe—including in Saudi Arabia, Palau, Sri Lanka and the Philippines—and previously led the GC’s Global Mission Centers for World Religions.
Originally from the United States, he holds degrees from Walla Walla University, Andrews University and Fuller Graduate School. He is married to Marcia and they have two adult children.
During his time in the Middle East, Dr McEdward oversaw the launch of a media centre for outreach in restricted areas and taught the first class at the new Arabic Theological Seminary. “The way God works is so amazing,” he said. “I was able to see the Holy Spirit bring new witnesses into the kingdom.” Fol-
lowing his election on July 6, he added, “Please pray for us as we do our best for the Lord and His Church.”
Dr Douglas has served as GC treasurer since 2021. He began his work for the Church in 1986 with General Conference Auditing Services and later became GCAS director. Originally from Jamaica, he has worked across finance and administration for nearly four decades.
A passionate advocate for aligning resources with mission, Dr Douglas told delegates, “Mobilising Resources for Mission is not a slogan for us. It is our signature commitment to be faithful stewards of the resources God has provided the Church to advance His kingdom.”
He holds degrees from Loma Linda University and California State University, along with a leadership certificate from Cornell University. He has also completed doctoral studies through Bayes Business School in London. He and his wife Rochelle have three adult children.
Dr Rick McEdward and Dr Paul Douglas [Credit: Brent Hardinge/Tor Tjeransen/AME].
Guided by prayer—SPD delegates pause regularly to seek God’s leading. (Photo: Terry Johnson, Facebook).
Adventists mobilise to offer support for domestic violence survivors
Ringwood, Vic | Kymberley McMurray/Ashley Stanton
The Adventist Church in Australia is partnering with ADRA to provide emergency “Go Bags” for people experiencing domestic violence, as part of this year’s enditnow campaign, held from August 22 to 23.
Run by the Australian Union Conference (AUC) Women’s Ministries department in collaboration with ADRA Australia, the initiative encourages church members to assemble practical care packs containing essential items. The Go Bags will be distributed during or after enditnow Emphasis Day, which encourages churches across Australia to join the global movement to end violence against women, men and children.
“The collaboration between the Women’s Ministries department and ADRA means that we are able to achieve more together, having a greater impact on the community than we could independently,” said Charlene Luzuk, ADRA national programs director. “We recognise the earnest desire of women (and men) in our churches to demonstrate their faith through action by making a tangible difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.”
Emergency packs, known as “Go Bags” provide important items for safety, comfort and support. Each pack aims to address immediate needs and offer a sense of security during a challenging transition. Church members are encouraged to deliver completed bags to their local conference Women’s Ministries or ADRA director by July 31. Brigita Djakovich, assistant manager of ADRA Community Centre Logan, Qld—one of the ADRA projects on the frontline supporting survivors—shared how meaningful the bags can be. “When we hand these bags out to people affected by domestic violence, we often receive heartfelt feedback—tears of joy, smiles,and many positive comments,” she said.
AUC Women’s Ministries director Pastor Sylvia Mendez said the initiative is a simple way to meet a real need. “This is an incredible opportunity for Women’s Ministries to collaborate with ADRA to provide much-needed essentials. For many of us, we take these things for granted. However, for someone having to start again because of domestic violence, these little everyday items can make a world of difference.”
For more information about the upcoming enditnow events and a full list of suggested items for Go Bags, visit <disciple.org.au/resources/enditnow>.
Read more about enditnow’s broader mission on page 9.
making headlines
Storm support
During the GC Session, the Adventist Church presented St Louis mayor Cara Spencer with a $US100,000 cheque for disaster relief following a tornado that struck the city in May. The Church has also been carrying out service projects across St Louis and the mayor responded with appreciation for the investment in the city’s future—AR
Youth lab
The GC Session created a space for young people to take part in the Church’s mission. During the week, youth had the opportunity to serve the community and speak directly to Church leaders, while also taking part in worship and discussion panels. It allowed them to mingle with other youth from around the world while giving them the chance to be directly involved in mission.—ANN
From every nation
The Church’s diversity was apparent through the 71 interpreters at the GC Session, who translated the event into eight major languages, ensuring accessibility for delegates as well as attendees. This also meant that news from the event was able to reach local churches in non-English speaking contexts, highlighting how translation fosters engagement and inclusivity.—ANN
Defining the Word
A new free online Bible study resource, the Seventh-day Adventist Biblical-Theological Dictionary, is currently being developed by the Biblical Research Institute. When complete, it will include 5698 entries covering people, places and theological and biblical terms. The project involves scholars from around the world and so far has 1500 entries.—Jarrod Stackelroth
Some of the items purchased for Go Bags [Photo supplied by ADRA Australia].
Unity in diversity
One of the most anticipated events of the General Conference Session was once again a vibrant celebration of global unity in Christ, held on Sabbath afternoon, July 12. The grand finale of Mission on the Move saw representatives from all world divisions don traditional attire and carry their countries’ flags as they paraded around the venue. The crowd responded with cheers and applause. Jane Gibson-Opetaia, secretary of the Trans Pacific Union Mission, said, “The Parade of Nations was a glimpse of heaven— many cultures, one faith, united in Christ. Yet many nations are still unreached and in need of care. Our mission isn’t finished. Together we press on, so every people group may one day stand before God’s throne in praise.”—Tracey Bridcutt
On the president’s agenda
The South Pacific is already on the radar of newly elected General Conference president Pastor Erton Köhler, who has confirmed plans to visit the region next year for the launch of SPD for Christ. In a video message to the SPD church family, Pastor Köhler thanked members for their commitment to the Lord, to the Church, to the Bible and “especially to the mission”. “I know that [the] South Pacific Division is on fire for mission and I’m planning to visit you next year to celebrate the launching of South Pacific for Christ,” he said. SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend said Pastor Köhler has agreed to be a plenary speaker for the launch event, which will take place at the church campground, Watson Park, in Brisbane, Queensland, from April 28 to May 3, 2026. “Plan to come and be inspired and discipled to be a part of God’s mission at this event,” he said. More information and registration details will be released in the coming months.—Tracey Bridcutt
SPD on display
The South Pacific Division booth drew a steady stream of visitors at the GC Session exhibition hall. Partnering with Sanitarium, the booth offered samples of WeetBix Bites and other health food products. The booth also featured vibrant displays on discipleship, education, health and media and a range of ministry resources.
—Record staff
Voices of the SPD
South Pacific performers took to the main stage during the GC Session, with Anna Beaden, Sandra Entermann, Marleta Fong, Marcha William, Sanja Kitevski, Narko Tutuo and the Wiles Memorial Singers and among those sharing original songs and joining international collaborations. Their performances, rich in testimony and musical excellence, brought encouragement to attendees from around the world —Record staff
Ending abuse starts with all of us: How enditnow aligns with Adsafe’s mission
As a member of the enditnow Advisory Committee and part of the team at Adsafe, I see firsthand how vital it is that we, as a church, continue to speak openly about abuse—and work together to prevent it.
enditnow is more than a campaign. It’s a global initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church focused on raising awareness and equipping our communities to take a stand against violence—especially family and domestic violence. In Australia, the enditnow Committee brings together leaders from across the Church, including womens, children’s, youth and family ministries, pastoral representatives, counselling professionals and safeguarding services like Adsafe.
This collaborative, cross-agency approach is a strength. We are not just sharing messages—we’re sharing tools, resources and relationships that help turn awareness into action.
Adsafe exists to support the Church in protecting children and vulnerable adults from sexual and physical abuse. Our role includes responding to concerns involving church employees, members and volunteers, ensuring that appropriate safeguarding steps are taken, and providing tailored support for survivors—including advocacy, counselling referrals and case management.
The resources developed through the enditnow Committee—like the Breaking the Silence booklets, church assessment tools and referral directories—complement Adsafe’s work. They offer practical, accessible guidance for church leaders, families and young people. They help us start the right conversations early and connect people with support when they need it most.
Importantly, enditnow helps foster a culture of awareness and prevention in our churches. That culture is the foundation of all effective safeguarding. At Adsafe, this isn’t just about policy or process. Our Survivor Services team walks alongside people with compassion and trauma-informed care, advocating for survivors, helping them navigate complex systems and supporting their healing journey.
enditnow amplifies that care by promoting the values of dignity, justice and safety throughout the Church.
This year’s enditnow Online Summit on August 22 is another opportunity to grow that response. I’m proud that Megan Cousins from our Survivor Services team will be part of a national panel discussion—another sign of how seriously Adsafe takes our role in this work, and how committed we are to partnering with the Church.
Together, through initiatives like enditnow and the vision of Adsafe, we are working toward a thriving Church—one where abuse has no place, and healing begins.
To find out more about how you can get involved in this year’s enditnow online summit and rallies in Sydney and Melbourne visit <old.disciple.org.au/resources/enditnow/>.
Jason Levin operations manager at Adsafe
SPD REPORT: inspiring stories of faith, service and transformation
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific presented its report to the 2025 General Conference Session on the evening of July 8, highlighting inspiring stories of faith, service and transformation.
The video report was introduced by South Pacific Division (SPD) president Pastor Glenn Townend, secretary Pastor Mike Sikuri and treasurer Francois Keet, who were joined on stage by their wives and a large group of delegates and special guests dressed in colourful traditional attire from their home countries.
Addressing the global audience before the video aired, Pastor Townend said, “The South Pacific Division is one of the most diverse divisions . . . and yet despite that diversity we are united and we learn to listen to each other and the cultural differences that are there and the things that unite us are the things that unite all of us: the message of Jesus and the lastday gospel and our mission to take that to the world.
“We have been blessed significantly over this last three-year period,” he added, “It has made us committed to help everywhere else and particularly our partner and our neighbours in Asia.”
The report reaffirms the SPD’s commitment to its vision: “A thriving Adventist movement, living our hope in Jesus and transforming the Pacific.”
Watch the SPD report presented at the 62nd General Conference Session
PNG for Christ 2024: One of the largest evangelistic events in PNG history
PNG for Christ was supported by preachers from across the Pacific and beyond. Pastor Boriss Soldat, a speaker from Australia, shared: “Upon arrival, the head elder told me, ‘This is a tough country—people are stuck in their ways.’ I told him, ‘I’ve got the Word of God with me. All we need to do is pray.’ So we did. The very first night, people came to me saying, ‘We don’t speak much English, but we understood everything as if you spoke it in our own tongue.’
“Reports that came out during these meetings from the authorities was the streets were empty,” he adds. “The police didn’t have much work. The crime went down—in some places it was virtually zero because people flocked to these meetings.”
2000+
preaching sites across PNG
More than
300,000 baptisms or commitments to baptism
Mission is being strengthened through the work of SPD institutions.
Sanitarium Health Food Company’s school breakfast program and support for community food pantries are helping thousands of families affected by the rising cost of living.
At Sydney Adventist Hospital, the chaplaincy ministry is bringing spiritual support to patients in times of crisis.
Tertiary institutions, Avondale University and Pacific Adventist University, continue to shape the next generation of mission-focused leaders—equipping them with knowledge, faith and purpose to transform their communities and the world.
Health in the Pacific
The 10,000 Toes Campaign, an SPD Health initiative, continues to combat diabetes and promote wellness. Regional ambassador George Kwong shares, “We’re impacting the various communities . . . and we have many impact stories. But one thing is very, very common in that we have saved limbs and saved lives.”
220 wellness hubs 6000 ambassadors.
The global “I Will Go” movement is inspiring a new generation to embrace mission.
Media ministries—TV, radio, print and digital—are reaching thousands, including many who have never walked into a church.
Adventist schools are also a mission field, shaping young minds and helping students develop Christ-like characters and discover their God-given purpose.
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is also making an impact through its “Disaster-Ready Churches” initiative. Samisoni Loga, emergency coordinator for ADRA Fiji, explains: “Church members are heavily involved . . . and they are the ones that carry out the activities, building and trying to help their church to be disaster-ready. [They are] coming up with their own funds as well in trying to retrofit their church, trying to meet the requirements to operate as an evacuation centre.”
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Adventist for every people in the South Pacific
“As a church we realised that we had to get out of our comfort zone if we wanted to minister properly to the people and reach out to them where they were. And our Bible studies were going to be validated not by how we preached but by how we lived our lives.”
—Pastor Hatsarmaveth Venkaya, New Caledonia Mission church development leader. In New Caledonia, despite political unrest, the gospel continues to spread as new home churches are planted.
A prime minister at the GC session
The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) has taken part in a presentation on global Total Member Involvement (TMI) during the 62nd General Conference Session, even singing an item with members of his group Footprints Ministry during the Friday evening program.
Prime Minister James Marape spent the Sabbath hours at the Session and thanked the Church for the invitation to attend.
“I want to say thank you very much for inviting us to be part of the 62nd General Conference Session,” he said. “[The PNG for Christ program] was a success as far as conversion was concerned—[the] work of nurture is still going on.”
He went on to thank the Church for their impact on the country during the program.
“From the government’s perspective it was a blessing for us. When we have the most diverse nation on the face of planet Earth, over 836 languages spoken by the 11 million people of my country, all united under Christ coming together, I just want to say thank you very much to the Church—from the global Church to my own SPD, to my own union mission and all the local missions for pulling together the conversion of over 500,000 people and church interests . . . thank you for your prayers worldwide.
“Thank you very much for all the support that has come to PNG in making it a country that 100 per cent knows the Seventh-day Adventist truth exists.”
Mr Marape then invited outgoing GC president Pastor Ted Wilson and his wife Nancy to join him on stage, presenting them with a framed portrait of Mr Wilson in gratitude for their support. Mr Wilson preached at one of the 2300 sites but also travelled to various parts of the country to present, open churches, dedicate prayer rooms and encourage church members.
The Footprint Ministry male vocal group, joined by Mr Marape, then sang the song “You are awesome God”. Mr Marape has been singing with Footprint Ministry since his days as a boarding student at Kabiufa Adventist High School. The group includes Vagi Thoa, Ismael Nombe, Ray Paul and Magaru Riva.
During the half-hour segment, a delegation from PNG, including PNG Union Mission president Pastor Malachi Yani and South Pacific Division president Pastor Glenn Townend, shared stories on the impact of the 2024 PNG for Christ campaign on the country.
Attendees heard a brief testimony from Yank Rut, a businesswoman from Western Highlands Mission, who was the TMI coordinator there. She personally provided 56 PA systems and speakers in all the sites, planted 201 TMI churches in preparation for dedication, supplied 28 sign boards, funded 102 sites, and accommodated international doctors and preachers at her newly built hotel, Mount Ararat in Mount Hagen.
The last to present were Kelvin and Irene Waukave, a lay couple living near Goroka, Eastern Highlands Simbu Mission.
The family planted a church in their home using the Discovery Bible Reading method. Their small group was able to meet regularly and studied the Gospels and the book of Acts. They added 98 members during PNG for Christ.
“Our story of small groups represents hundreds and thousands of small groups, small churches, individuals who came together under the banner of Christ—with the strategic foundation of TMI—[which] laid the foundation of more than 300,000 baptisms in PNG in 2024,” said Mr Waukave.
Jarrod Stackelroth editor, Adventist Record
Planes, trains and outboard motors
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a beautiful and, in many places, untouched land, filled with steep mountains, fast-flowing rivers and thick tropical jungles. Just south of the equator, PNG has temperate highlands, dry coastal regions, river deltas, numerous islands and hot, humid lowlands. Travel is difficult. Often the only transport is by plane (as highways have not been cut through the rugged terrain) or watercraft (to reach a town with roads that connect the wider world).
Meet Michell Sawavi Gongogi.
She comes from a remote area on the northern edge of PNG’s tail, separated from the capital by the mountainous spine of the country. Delegates and guests have come to St Louis, Missouri, US, from every corner of the map, but
Ms Gongogi made quite a journey to get there and fulfil her role as a delegate.
Ms Gongogi hails from Musa, in the Northern and Milne Bay Mission—one of nine missions and one conference that make up the Papua New Guinea Union Mission.
To get to St Louis, Ms Gongogi took a dinghy (small outboard motorboat) across the bay. From there she took a truck into Popondetta, a large town and the site of the mission office. Popondetta airfield was built during World War II by the US military as one of the easiest airfields to access on the northern side of PNG.
From Popondetta, Ms Gongogi flew to PNG’s capital, Port Moresby, before flying down to Brisbane, Australia, and then a 14-hour flight to Los Angeles, California, US. But Ms Gongogi’s journey was not finished. She then had to fly to Chicago, where, with many other attendees from PNG, she caught a train down to St Louis.
But the road to St Louis was not just physical. Ms Gongogi is the minister of two organised churches and 14 hand churches (a hand church is a group planted from a larger group). They are spread out, and the only way to serve them is to walk.
“Most times I never used to eat,” she said. “I walk from 6am to 6pm in order to get to another village.”
Once she arrives, she runs the program that is on the calendar she prepared at the start of the year. Stewardship programs, retention programs, communion, revival meetings—she must keep to the schedule, as she cannot contact people there in advance, because they may not have internet or phone reception.
If she’s sick, she walks anyway and never misses an appointment.
“It’s the remotest part and the hardest path, but I love the Lord.”
Ms Gongogi has worked in ministry for 10 years—the past four in remote Musa, the region she is from.
“I love to be with people. I love sharing Jesus with others,” she said. “I love missionary work.”
Those seeds were planted by her father. He was a missionary and he would take picture rolls out to share Bible stories with people who often couldn’t read. But Ms Gongogi’s parents died when she was five and she was raised by her uncle. “Looking back to what my parents did, I love sharing Jesus with others, so I grew up with that mindset.”
During PNG for Christ there were 541 baptisms from Ms Gongogi’s region and she was selected by her mission to attend the General Conference Session.
The session is inspiring Ms Gongogi. “It’s really giving me some kind of strength to go and do more.
“When I hear testimonies—stories about missionaries touching lives—it’s energising me to do more.”
Jarrod Stackelroth editor, Adventist Record
Honoured at the GC Session: SPD voices recognised for their impact
Several South Pacific Division (SPD) members were honoured at the 62nd General Conference Session in St Louis, Missouri.
Dr Percy Harrold received an award for more than three decades of dedicated service to blind and visually impaired people around the world.
The award recognises Dr Harrold’s faithful and unwavering commitment to making the English Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide accessible through audio recordings. He has recorded and produced around 12,000 daily lessons, which are broadcast globally via the GC Sabbath School app and other platforms such as SoundCloud, iTunes and YouTube.
The presentation was made during the Sabbath School program on July 12 by Pastor Douglas Venn, associate director of GC Sabbath School and Personal Ministries for Adventist Possibility Ministries, and Pastor Wayne Boehm, director of Hope Channel South Pacific.
“Did you know, Dr Harrold, over the last 60 days 2.5 million people have actually accessed the audio version?”
Pastor Venn said, “. . . and we have 500,000 active users each week on the app.”
“Based on those statistics that puts this resource within the top 1 per cent of podcasts globally,” Pastor Boehm added.
Dr Harrold was thanked for his faithful service and dedication.
“You never sought attention but your voice has been a lifeline for thousands who would otherwise not engage in
the Sabbath School lesson,” Pastor Venn said.
“It’s a powerful reminder of what one person can do.”
Dr Harrold was accompanied to the GC Session by his granddaughter Emma Garrick.
Dr Harrold’s recordings began with cassette tapes distributed to blind and low-vision church members in the South Pacific. Over time, the recordings transitioned to CDs and digital formats, with the first podcast launched on July 1, 2007. Today, his work is distributed globally across multiple platforms with more than 1 million downloads a year.
Now 84, Dr Harrold remains actively involved in producing the weekly podcast, recording from the study of his home in Yandina, Queensland, using a laptop and microphone. Each lesson takes about three days to complete, including recording, editing and formatting. He is supported by his wife Marion and their family.
“What I do is voluntary, but it’s something I want to do,” he said. “There is a need for the blind to hear, to see—and that applies to Scripture as well. No-one else is recording these Sabbath School lessons anywhere in the world.”
Thousands tune in each week and listener feedback confirms the podcast’s spiritual value and global reach. Comments come from all walks of life—some ask for prayer, others simply wish Dr Harrold well and express gratitude for the podcast. “At least one baptism, but joy for so many,” he said.
Despite recent health challenges that briefly disrupted his schedule—the first missed release in over 1200 podcast
episodes—Dr Harrold is now back behind the mic, already recording lessons for the upcoming quarter.
On receiving news of the GC recognition, he was deeply moved. “I feel very honoured to be part of a team that supports appropriate resources for the blind and deaf across the world,” he said. “I see this award as a way of publicising our Possibility Ministries services to the Church. Each of us could one day need these services. I am proud of the team but humbled and chuffed that I have been honoured.”
SPD field and ministerial secretary Dr Darius Jankiewicz was honoured for his longstanding support for women in ministry. He received the Champion of Justice award from the Association of Adventist Women (AAW) during a special reception on July 6.
AAW president Nerida Taylor Bates, in announcing the award, said, “The Association of Adventist Women honours Dr Darius Jankiewicz for his passion and historical and theological discourses and how they impact the issue of women’s ordination and his current work educating the pastorate in the South Pacific Division to be more inclusive of women.
“We would also like to mention his wife Edyta who has been in charge of women pastorate in the South Pacific and they are a team in their current role but they each report equally to their leadership above them.”
In accepting the award, Dr Jankiewicz expressed deep appreciation. “It is an honour for me to be in the presence of so many accomplished women and thank you very much for the opportunity to be here,” he said. “I really appreciate
this award.”
Dr Jankiewicz was one of four honoured at the event.
The AAW also recently announced its Junia Awards recipients—which highlight women active in local church leadership, administration or religious training across each world division.
For the SPD, the 2025 Junia Award winner is Sarah Aratai, a pioneering Cook Islands pastor.
Pastor Aratai double-majored in ministry and theology at Avondale University and became the first female Cook Islander to be called “home” to pastor.
She began ministry in Rarotonga in 2008 and was commissioned in 2014. Since 2020, she has served on Aitutaki, currently leading three churches. She has directed the women’s ministries and health departments for the past 17 years—including involvement in the 10,000 Toes campaign to combat diabetes in the Pacific. She is also a school chaplain for local Adventist and public schools and, in 2021, earned an MBA from the University of the South Pacific. Meeting people in the community and sharing Jesus bring her joy.
Founded in 1982, the AAW is believed to be the oldest, continuously operating organisation for Adventist women. It functions as an independent, volunteer-led, not-forprofit entity committed to empowering women in faith, leadership and service.
Tracey Bridcutt South Pacific Division communications director
The man who cheated death
Imust confess I’m oddly fascinated by unpublished, lost or posthumous works of art. Whether that be the many manuscripts left behind by Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien following his death, or Harper Lee’s novel Go Set a Watchman—written in the 1950s but published in 2015 a year before her death, becoming her only other book aside from the Pulitzer prize-winning To Kill a Mockingbird Or the musical back-catalogues left by artists like Michael Jackson, Bob Marley and the Beatles; the latter released a new song in 2023, a lost piece first recorded in 1977 by the late John Lennon, which was dubbed a “bookend” to the band’s expansive career.
Or in motion picture. 100 Years is an experimental science fiction short film, written by and starring John Malkovich, shot in 2015. The film currently sits cozily tucked away in a bulletproof safe which will open on its not-quite-impending release date of 18 November 2115.
More than simply a voice from beyond the grave or afterword to some great and controversial lives, these works reveal insights into the artists’ creative process, becoming an afterword to their accomplished endeavours.
In a similar way, I’ve always been intrigued by the Books of Enoch. If you’ve never seen them amongst the Bible’s 66 books, that’s because they’re part of the Apocrypha, a colloquial name for books omitted from the Bible due to debatable authenticity and divine inspiration.
The majority of Christian denominations and Jews reject the Books of Enoch for this very reason, with some historians concluding it was written up to 2900 years after God took Enoch away. The content within the Books also holds wild and unsubstantiated claims, including angels from heaven choosing wives on earth, giving birth to giants that waged war against men.
The mysterious, sparsely mentioned Enoch—take away the Apocrypha, and we find not much is shared in the Bible about him.
Firstly, we know he was the son of Jared and then the father of Methuselah.
Secondly, at the young age of 365 years (when compared with his father’s 962), he was “no more, because God took him away” (Genesis 5:24).
And finally, if Enoch’s fate as described in Genesis sounds a bit ambiguous, Hebrews 11:5 confirms, “By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.”
So in essence, Enoch was one of the few people recorded in the Bible, along with Elijah and Moses, who was selected by God to enter heaven without experiencing death or going through the judgement.
What’s more intriguing about Enoch is his place in this selected trio. Unlike the other two, he’s not generally a
forerunner for being considered a “hero of faith”.
Moses led the Israelites out of slavery. He delivered the Ten Commandments from Mt Sinai to the Israelites, parted the red sea and ultimately delivered his people to the Promised Land. As his final act, God showed him the land from Mount Nebo before he died and was buried “...in the valley opposite Beth Poer, but to this day no one knows where his grave is” (Deuteronomy 34:6). Moses later appeared alongside Elijah at the Mount of Transfiguration along with the newly resurrected Jesus Christ.
Elijah is also considered to be a hero of faith. He led a showdown with pagan Baal worshipers on Mt Carmel, culminating in God delivering fire from heaven in a supernatural display to consume the sacrifice Elijah had prepared. Elijah also performed 13 recorded miracles in 1st and 2nd Kings. At the end of it all, “...a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them [Elisha], and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind” (2 Kings 2:11). Unlike Moses but similar to Enoch, Elijah was spared death and has since been in heaven.
At the Mount of Transfiguration when Jesus was resurrected following his death, “Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus” (Matthew 17:2). Moses and Elijah in heaven? Understandable. Both were strong leaders who chose to follow God in spite of intense opposition.
But Enoch? Why did God choose to take a little known character in the Old Testament, one who’s recorded story lasts 4 sentences, and no miracles or professions of faith attributed to him apart from that he “walked faithfully with God” (Genesis 5:24).
After becoming the father of Methuselah at age 65, “Enoch walked faithfully with God 300 years” until his death (Genesis 5:22). Whether or not there was a radical conversion experience, a realisation or a recommitment, it’s implied that in Enoch’s life, the birth of his son became the catalyst that shaped his walk with God.
Faithfulness—the word appears multiple times surrounding Enoch’s few mentions in the Bible. In Hebrews, “he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:5,6).
I’ve always wondered why God allowed certain people into heaven early—VIP guests—while the rest of humanity has had to suffer and pass away, potentially in pain. It makes God seem unfair, and brings questions about his equal treatment of humans. And why the explanation of the state of the dead—that it’s against God’s character to allow people to die and be immediately transported to heaven to watch their families suffer below—didn’t apply in the case of Moses, Elijah or Enoch.
Enoch’s life, more so than Moses or Elijah, reveals the answer to this, and ultimately what’s important to God. It’s also where things become more real for us.
I’ve long struggled with the concept of salvation, and I suspect I’m not alone. How something so complex and profound can be so simple is something I continue to grapple with. When I was a teenager, during a church youth meeting intermission while a group of friends and I were chatting together, a pastor approached us and point-blank asked, “if Jesus came today, do you believe you’d be saved?” The laughs were nervous and replies were unconvincing, to say the least. It seems like humanity’s sinful condition leads us to continually create our own barriers-to-entry.
Through Enoch’s life, we see God highlight the essence and simplicity of salvation: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
The core of what God wants from us is faith—holding strong to the belief that He exists, that his plan is just, and that one day he’ll take us all to be in heaven. He used heroes of faith like Moses and Elijah, but he also used a man like Enoch—a man who’s greatest achievement is simply holding true to the Lord.
Enoch’s life reminds us not to be discouraged when we don’t come upon opportunities to profess our faith in “big” ways. And ultimately he exemplifies that the reward for faithfulness is communion with our loving and fair God in heaven. What God did for Enoch shows that the Second Coming is real and that God has follow-through. And by taking these three men up to heaven, he allowed mortal human representatives the opportunity to witness the full picture of his plan of salvation being enacted on earth and in heaven. I’m sure the three men will have plenty to share when we meet them in heaven.
I don’t know about you, but when we’re there, while others seek out Moses and Elijah to hear about the many incredible stories from their lifetimes, I’ll be looking to find Enoch. I can’t wait to hear what he has to say about those 300 faithful years.
lives in Sydney and runs a video production business.
Daniel Kuberek
Potato and Pea Curry in Roti Cones
Serves 8 Prep 15 Cook 40
A budget-friendly “go to dish” using pantry staples. This moderately spiced curry bowl served in roti cones is a lighter meal than if served with rice. Great meal idea for on the run.
Ingredients
1 tbsp oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 ½ tsp ground cumin
1 ½ tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 kg desiree potato, cut into chunks
2 x 400g cans brown lentils, drained and rinsed
½ litre vegetable stock, reduced salt
½ litre water
2 tbsp tomato paste, no salted salt
1 cup frozen peas
8 commercial roti
Tips:
• Roti is a flatbread that is lightly fried on both sides and served with the curry. It’s found in the bread section of the supermarket. Alternatively you could make your own.
Method
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan and sauté onion over medium heat until soft. Add spices and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Stir through potato, lentils, stock, water and tomato paste. Bring mixture to the boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes with lid off, stirring occasionally, until potato is cooked and liquid reduced.
3. Fold through peas. Heat through.
4. Heat fry pan over a high heat then reduce heat and brown roti on both sides. Form roti into cone shapes and fill with curry.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Conversations
Two chins
Re: “Living Convenant Rahab: from Shame to Salvation” (July 5).
Some of us love to preach the health message…..what to eat, what to drink, how to live…..yet behind closed doors, our homes are in chaos.
Disrespectful kids. Broken marriages. Bitterness in the heart. But we’re quick to judge others who don’t meet our “standard of holiness.”
Jesus said it plainly:
“You clean the outside of the cup, but inside you’re full of greed and self-indulgence… You look righteous, but you’re full of hypocrisy” (Matthew 23:25-28).
It’s easy to appear spiritual. But real godliness starts at HOME.
“If someone can’t manage their household, how can they lead others?” (1 Timothy 3:5)
Before pointing fingers, check the mirror. Before preaching health, preach love, humility, and self-control. Judgment without love is just pride in disguise. Let’s be real Christians—not just healthy ones.
It’s better to be a person with two chins, than a person with two faces Edgardo Garrido, via Facebook
Are we prepared?
The return of the unpredictable Donald Trump to the presidency of the USA, and the appointment of an American Pope Leo 1V, should be sounding alarm bells to all Seventhday Adventists that the ‘time of trouble’ is almost upon us, to be followed by Sunday laws, persecution and the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
But are we prepared? Have we diligently studied what the Scriptures and the Spirit of Prophecy say about the end times, have we considered how the Sunday laws might be framed to prevent us from worshipping on Sabbath, have we thought about the options open to us and the consequences of each option. The options include fleeing to remote areas and relying on God’s provision and protection, staying put and standing up for the Sabbath (which will almost certainly result in imprisonment) or, sadly for many, taking the easy way out, cutting all ties with Adventists and joining a Sunday keeping church.
It is said that failure to plan is a plan for failure. I believe that
every church leader, every church congregation and every church member should be urgently engaged in discussing these issues, for mutual support and to make decisions on how we will respond to the Sunday laws when they are legislated. It is easier to make calm and careful plans before a crisis than it is in the middle of the crisis. But time is running out.
Richard Morris,
Vic
Inspiring read
In response to “God chooses not to answer” I am so pleased that lady stayed with her husband. I know God will bless her for her godly decision, also her children.
“God heals” was printed in the Record some years back. I had it photocopied and given it to many people, including clergy of many denominations praying it will help and guide and encourage people. Maybe it is time it was reprinted, as the problem of marriage breakdown is getting worse and worse in our society.
Beryl Turner, SA
Obituaries
CULLEN, Alice Lydia (nee Strange) OAM, born 14.6.1931 in Boddington, WA; died 29.6.25 at the EM Tooth Residential Aged Care Home, Manly, Qld. She will be greatly missed by her children, Lyndon and Maryanne, Dudley and Jo, Dennis and Brenda, Dorelle, Desiree and Ben, and Deirdre and Chris; 14 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Alice sleeps awaiting Jesus’ soon return.
Stephen Bews
PARSONS, Ramona Marjorie (nee Goldstone), born 28.12 1931 in Te Kopuru, Northland, NZ; died 20.6.25 in Bonnells Bay, NSW. She was predeceased by her husband, John in 1980. Ramona is survived by her brother, Pastor Ross Goldstone (Cooranbong). Ramona worked at the SHF in Christchurch, NZ for 25 years from 1955–1980. She later graduated with a Diploma of Nursing from the Sydney Adventist Hospital in 1984 and worked there until retirement in 2003. Ramona loved travel and did many trips with her brother, Ross. She resisted retirement villages and passed quietly, sitting in her favourite chair after 93-and-a-half years of devoted service to God and man. She is now awaiting the call of the Lifegiver.
Lionel Smith
STRAWBRIDGE, Lorna Francis (nee Davis), born 4.4.1932 in Palmerston North, NZ; died 23.5.25 in Palmerston North. She was predeceased by her husband, Bob and grandson, Seth. Lorna is survived by her children, Graeme and Catie, Murray and Sheree, and Kaye and Warwick Clausen; and grandchildren, Ryan, Olivia, Hayley and Nathan, Brook, Caleb and Jordan, Todd, Sarah and Hamish. Lorna was a very active church member all her life and played the piano and organ until her late eighties. She was also a gifted floral artist with her flower arrangements gracing the church
rostrum for many years. But it will be her friendship ministry that will be remembered by most. She continued to keep in touch with many, either by phone or personal visits offering friendship and encouragement.
Paul Hopson
VRANJES, Angelina, born 5.11.1945 in Deronje, Republic of Serbia; died 6.11.24 in Brisbane, Qld. In 1963 she married Petar, who predeceased her. She is survived by her daughters, Mariana, Zorana and Svetlana; and four grandchildren. In 1969, the family moved to Melbourne, Australia and later settled permanently in Brisbane. Angelina spent most of her working life in Australia in the textile industry. She was an active member of her church, taking on many roles and expressing her faith through the gift of hospitality. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and dear friend. Her strong spirit and love for family and friends left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She was surrounded by close friends and family until her last breath.
Sasa Todorovic
WEGENER, Campbell Laurence, born 10.8.1943 in Riverland, SA; died 19.6.25 in Barmera. He was predeceased by his daughter-in-law, Louise. Laurie is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Narelle, Bradley, Kerri and Jacey; children-in-law, Carl, Grant and Rob; and nine
grandchildren. Laurie and his wife became Seventh-day Adventists and he will be remembered as a dedicated father and much-loved grandfather. His Bible markings are testament to his strong faith in God. He will be missed for his care and quirky sense of humour. We look forward to that wonderful resurrection day. Brenton Wilkinson
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