NorthPoint - March, 2013

Decisions made as summer campers

The Junior and Teen Summer Camps this year had the theme of “Take Courage” (based on the story in Matthew 14, with the key verse being verse 27), and the camps provided attendees with a great opportunity to take a courageous stand for Christ.

With 205 teens and staff at both the Junior and Teen 1 camps, and 160 at Teen 2, there were many decisions made for baptism, Bible studies and to “pack courage in Jesus” (which meant they wanted to take a stand for Him). At Junior Camp, there were 50 requests for baptism, 18 requests for further Bible studies and 84 decisions to stand for Jesus. At Teen 1, 30 requested baptism, seven wanted further Bible studies and 78 made a stand for Jesus. At Teen 2, 16 wanted to be baptised, 13 requested further Bible studies and 47 wanted to “pack courage in Jesus.”

Pastor Jeff Parker, Director of Youth Ministries for the North New South Wales (NNSW) Conference, estimates that “about 60 per cent of Summer Camp attendees are not from Adventist homes or churches, but lots of them go to Adventist schools.”

Chris Starrett, the guest speaker for the Teen 1 Camp, is one person who came into the church through Avondale School. He went on STORM Co trips and, according to the Youth Ministries Department team, these were a turning point for him. He went on to study at Avondale College and is now a teacher at Northpine College in Queensland.

The other speakers were Brock Goodall (Junior) and Nimrod Maua (Teen 2). As well as being the guest speaker of the camp, Nimrod also made the offer to Teen 2 attendees of mentoring them one-on-one, and around 20 teens responded to that offer of mentoring. “The speakers were all brilliant,” says Rick Hergenhan, Associate Director of Youth Ministries for the NNSW Conference. “They were right on the mark and spoke right to the hearts and the issues of kids who were at the camps.”

Attendees at the camps all engaged positively with the non-compulsory morning worships. For the Teen Camp worships, Rick hired a full set of replica Roman armour, which was used to talk about putting on the full armour of God (see Ephesians 6:10-18). There was a strong emphasis on seeking God, as well as having fun with the activities that took place throughout the day. The days were wrapped up with messages from the guest speakers and a drama exploring the life of Mark the Apostle. Music was provided by Leighton Heise and family for Junior Camp, the Central Coast crew for Teen 1 and an Avondale College group for Teen 2.

The Youth Ministries department also praised the work of the staff at camp. “Every year I’m blown away by our staff,” says Pastor Parker. “We always get 100 per cent commitment from them, and there wasn’t one this year who I wouldn’t bring to camp again.”

— Adele Nash

Photos courtesy of Lynelle Richards and Pastor Jeff Parker. More photos on page 4.

“Take Courage”

OUR CONFERENCE

From the President: Tithe: how we spend God’s money

Money is one of those things that none of us seem to be able to avoid. In fact, far from avoiding it, we spend most of our lives chasing it just to have a normal existence. Everything seems to cost money, and no matter how much I have, I have no trouble spending it.

It seems that some people treasure their money so much they think returning it to God in the form of tithe (10 per cent of their increase) is just too much to bear.

One recent study on the tithing habits of Adventists indicated that less than half return a faithful tithe to the church (as outlined in Malachi 3:6-10). This amazes me! They must think that either God or the church cannot be trusted with their money. I don’t think I would be bothered with either if I believed that. Tithing what comes my way seems a natural thing to do for me. I have done it my whole life and believe it is the least I can do for what God has done for me.

Just so you know what happens with your tithe in the North New South Wales (NNSW) Conference, 23 per cent goes to the world church in the form of the union or the division. This is what has enabled the Seventh-day Adventist Church to become the most widely-spread Protestant church on earth. I am thankful that we take the Great Commission so seriously. Another six per cent is given to education in NNSW, which supports the running of our 11 schools. With nearly 4000 students, our schools are an amazing mission field.

That leaves us 71 per cent for evangelism and field workers in our conference. This supports around 66 pastors and Bible workers across our 80 churches. It also supports hundreds of evangelistic programs in towns and villages. In 2012, we were blessed by God with the highest increase in tithe for the past five years. As much as possible, it is our intention to increase the number of pastors in the field. We have placed four extra positions this year, and hope to add another five in 2014, taking our pastoral numbers to more than 70.

Thank you for your faithfulness to God and I pray that God’s Kingdom will continue to expand.

— Pastor Justin Lawman

Around The Traps, a weekly e-newsletter from the NNSW Conference President Pastor Justin Lawman, is now available. To subscribe, email northpoint@ adventist.org.au with the words “E-newsletter subscription” in the subject line.

Chief Financial Officer’s report: 2012 tithe

The North New South Wales Conference’s total tithe for 2012 was $14 million. This represents an increase of 5.23 per cent over the previous year, and an average increase of 3.78 per cent over the past five years.

The chart below shows the tithe returned to our conference over the past six years.

We would like to celebrate and acknowledge the following larger churches (these return $100,000 or more in tithe per year) within our conference who have a significant impact on our conference tithe base, and have achieved greater than 10 per cent tithe growth over the past five years and 12 months respectively.

Avondale Memorial Adventist Church recorded tithe of $1.067 million in 2012. This is the first time any single church in our conference has exceeded $1 million in tithe giving in a calendar year.

Space does not permit to acknowledge the significant tithe growth achievements of our smaller churches who return their tithes to the storehouse in accordance with the biblical model, but we give thanks for their faithfulness.

— Russell Halliday

OUR CONFERENCE

ADRA responds to floods in New South Wales and Queensland

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Australia responded to flooding caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald across Queensland and northern New South Wales. This was done through an accommodation program, which saw more than 100 evacuees assisted.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald brought heavy rain and wind across the Queensland coast and moved south over the Australia Day long weekend, causing widespread flooding throughout northern NSW.

Across major centres and regional towns in both states, ADRA volunteers were called into action and assisted more than 100 individuals and families in need. In Grafton alone, 86 people were accommodated.

“Our volunteers across the country have had a busy start to the year,” says Kevin Munro, ADRA Australia’s National Manager — Emergency Services. “The team in Coffs Harbour area were asked to check the potential for moving significant numbers of people from Grafton into the city. That alone was a mammoth task.”

ADRA Volunteers came to the assistance of two new mums when the Queensland government asked them to secure accommodation for them in Brisbane — their premature babies were at the threatened Bundaberg hospital and needed to be evacuated. Thanks to ADRA’s work, the mothers were able to stay close to their babies, despite the devastation around them.

The program, which has been in place in NSW for more than 30 years, provides free accommodation to evacuees through ADRA’s official agreements with the NSW state government. ADRA holds formal agreements with state governments in NSW, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory and Western Australia to provide emergency accommodation during times of disaster.

Pastor Justin Lawman, President of the North New South Wales Conference, says, “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by the flooding —

particularly for the families and friends of those who died in the floods. I spoke to Paul Richardson, who ministers to the Grafton and Maclean Churches, on the Tuesday after the long weekend and he said that roads to the town had been cut off at the time. Paul later wrote and told us that the Grafton ADRA team, led by Harley Toms, was called out on the Monday night and the Tuesday morning at 7.30am. He also told us that some church members had evacuated the area to avoid the flooding.”

To donate to the ADRA Disaster Preparedness and Response Fund, or for more information about ADRA Australia’s other programs, visit www.adra.org.au.

— Braden Blyde/NorthPoint

Photo courtesy of Michael Heath

For more information about ADRA’s flood response or to stay up-to-date with their other programs, visit www.facebook.com/ADRAAustralia, or connect with them on Twitter @ADRAAustralia.

Singles connect at the Log Cabin campground

For a number of singles from various conferences around Australia, the Australia Day long weekend was spent at the Log Cabin campground.

It rained all weekend and by the end of it, the campers were locked in as trees, debris and rushing water blocked the roads to the Gold Coast.

As the earth was blessed with the showers of rain, the singles were encouraged with the showers of blessings that the guest speakers, Graham and Michelle Hood, gave them through their messages of love and reconciliation.

Graham and Michelle have a ministry called Mission Serenity which involves ministering to the hurting. They shared their stories with attendees, which have inspired and healed. Camp attendees were so thankful to them for their ministry over the weekend. However, they had to leave earlier than expected because the flood waters were rising near their home and property.

There were 49 in attendance at the camp, including some couples who came as support people, helping with the catering and music.

Lynelda Tippo, Director of Singles Ministries for the North New South Wales Conference, thanked Glynis and Errol Wilkinson for cooking tasty meals, and Delphine and Damien Writer for providing music and help with the PA system.

On Sunday night the group had a special dinner with the theme being “Red, White and Black.” Most of them joined in and came dressed in red, white and black outfits. Dinner was delicious and everyone had a fun night.

Some of the campers braved the wind and rain to see the Natural Bridge, then viewed the glow worms in the cave nearby later in the evening. It was disappointing not to visit the Platypus Pool to see a platypus or two playing in the water.

Though some made their way to the Gold Coast on Monday, it was soon evident that the rains had affected the flights in and out of Coolangatta. All flights were cancelled and resumed flying on Wednesday and Thursday. There were about 12 people who left the Log Cabins on Tuesday morning.

Haydee Meunier from the South Queensland Conference did a wonderful job again in making the camp a great success, and Lynelda expressed her thankfulness to Haydee for being with the campers until the last one had left.

— Lynelda Tippo/NorthPoint

OUR CONFERENCE

Conference office staff use Table Talk in worships

For Monday morning worships at the North New South Wales (NNSW) Conference Office, the office staff have been using the Table Talk question cards, which are a resource launched by Children’s Ministries departments from around Australia last year (see the April 2012 NorthPoint for more information).

Pastor Daron Pratt, Director of Children’s Ministries for the NNSW Conference, says, “After an office worship presenting the benefits of family meals, the office saw the value in doing Table Talk as part of their worship. It would help us to get to know each other better and build our faith. I hope it will encourage office members to get to know each other more and have meaningful conversations that will grow faith further. As we road-test the product, we can recommend and influence the use of the product in homes right across the conference.”

Pastor Pratt says the response to Table Talk from families who have been using it has been very positive. “Children love it and it is providing a conduit for meaningful discussion,” he says. “We are promoting this resource to our homes right across the conference. Our aim is to see every family in our churches and schools using this great resource as a conduit to connect families through great stories, experiences and conversations that promotes faith formation around our tables!”

Aged Care company expands

Seventh-day Adventist Aged Care (NNSW) Ltd has just finalised the acquisition of a further two retirement villages. The villages, located at Wyee Point (pictured left) and Belmont North, represent a significant step forward for the company. The decision to purchase in the Lake Macquarie area was based on very detailed market research covering 11 Local Government Areas in the NNSW Conference, and represents the culmination of a two-year project to find a suitable location.

Both villages have room to expand, with the Belmont Village approved to 98 villas (with 48 currently built and occupied), and the Wyee Village approved to 111 villas (with eight of the 14 completed units already sold, and the remaining six now officially on the market under the Aged Care Companies brand).

“This is a really exciting time for the Aged Care Company as we continue to grow and provide more services to older Australians,” says David Knight, Managing Director of Adventist Aged Care (NNSW).

— David Knight/

NorthPoint

Decisions made as summer campers “Take Courage”

— Adele Nash

Table Talk tins are available from the Adventist Book Centre.

Fires, “Amazon Adventures” and meeting the Prime Minister for Coonabarabran kids

A number of members of Lakeside Adventist Church visited Coonabarabran to run a Vacation Bible School (VBS) program from 14 to 20 January, which was during the time when the town was impacted by severe bushfires (see the February issue of NorthPoint for more information).

The idea of running an “Amazon Adventure” VBS in Coonabarabran came from Tammy and Steve Bennett, who both grew up there. Tammy says, “Three years ago, I took my daughter Cassie to the VBS in Port Macquarie. It covered the ‘Seven Cs’ of history — creation, corruption, catastrophe (flood), confusion (Tower of Babel), Christ, cross and consummation. It was brilliant and God impressed on my heart to run one in a small country church. It took Him three years to convince me, but He knew it would work — and what better town to start than my home town?”

Although the VBS numbers started out small — there were seven children on the first day, and four on the second — Tammy prayed that if they were meant to stay there “in the middle of the fires,” that God would increase the numbers. “All children are important and I would be happy to stay for just one,” says Tammy. “But with Coona in the middle of a natural disaster, I felt we were using resources that could be used by firefighters or evacuees. The next day, we had 25 children, on the fourth day there were 33 and on the final day, we had 35.”

The group from Lakeside stayed at the town’s racecourse, which was where the firefighters also stayed. They took the opportunity to share cool drinks and fresh fruit with the firefighters. Dr Andy Matthes, who took part in the VBS, says, “It was a great opportunity to break the ice with them.” The group was also active in their “free time,” visiting people and helping them.

One of the things that stood out for Dr Matthes was his interaction with a boy called Kyran, and his friends Wally and Blaine. They came to the VBS and enjoyed spending time with the group. “They were tough kids and swore like troopers,” says Dr Matthes. “One morning, Ky couldn’t focus, so I offered to take him for a wander. I had this idea that we could go meet Julia Gillard, the Prime Minister of Australia, as she was in town. He thought I was silly and we wouldn’t get to meet her, but we thought we should try.

“Ky came with me and we were looking around down at the fire station where they were set up for the situation. She was in one of the tents, so we waited and watched — ‘A bit like we’re staking the joint out,’ said Ky. At 10.30, one of the tents opened and Julia walked out. She said hello to a few people, but made her way directly to where we were. I asked if she’d mind having a photo with Ky. He pulled out his phone, so I took the photo. When she left, Ky waved good-bye to her and she waved back at him as the car drove off.”

Tammy says that they later found out that Kyran was on release from detention and says, “We got to have him for two of his three days out, and we got to tell him about our Lord. Now whenever he sees his photo of himself and the Prime Minister, he will also think of his ‘Amazon Adventure.’”

Photos courtesy of Tammy Bennett and Dr Andy Matthes

OUR CHURCHES

“C4 JUMP” mission trip to Cambodia

The Central Coast Community Church’s (CCCC) “C4 JUMP” team recently returned from their mission trip in Cambodia. The two-week visit gave the group a chance to see the many projects underway by International Children’s Care (ICC), most of which have been blessed with success. The team of 13 started in Phnom Penh with a visit to the Killing Fields, which provided an understanding of the cruelty of genocide and how it has impacted the Cambodian way of life.

The team experienced serving on many levels. They visited a hospital, and washed the hair of sick patients and dressed their wounds. Some of the team gave blood at the children’s hospital — a hospital which survives purely on donations for financial support. They visited many projects where families who used to live in dumps are relocated to farms and taught new skills. They also visited the “Daughters” organisation, where sex workers are encouraged to get off the street, and work together to sew clothes and crafts while their children are safely minded. They had massages from blind masseurs (this program is called “Seeing Hands”). They ate at restaurants where street kids are taught to cook. They slept amidst a poor community, with the local family whose children would only get a couple of meals a week until recent times. In the morning, they fed breakfast to all the kids in the district, then ran a kids’ church.

One of the main projects undertaken by the “C4 JUMP” team was teaching new skills in the area of children’s ministry. This came from an invitation by ICC to add some “life” to their programs. Kids’ church was run daily at the Light of Hope Children’s Village (an orphanage and school), which is situated between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The local Christian school, attached to the orphanage, has been built and sponsored by ICC. Three years ago, it had 75 kids, while today it boasts 600 students! This is a testament to the enthusiasm from the local community and management of ICC. The kids had an awesome time singing, playing games and learning about God’s purpose for their lives.

The second main project was the building of a house for a needy family. The fortunate family of seven was selected by the village chief as most worthy. Each afternoon was spent sawing, measuring and hammering the rough-hewn timber, and laying the floor and walls. It was an especially emotional time when the house was blessed and handed over to the family, along with lots of house-warming gifts. Since then, a cross has been added to the house by the family, as is the case with lots of similar “donated” homes. The recipient families now call themselves Christians.

— CCCC Newsletter

— Adele Nash

OUR CHURCHES

Excursion for Lismore Church’s “Golden Oldies”

Lismore Adventist Church’s “Golden Oldies” have recently been meeting each month in the church hall and have been enjoying a variety of activities, but to start the new year in style, they went on an excursion to Byron Bay.

The excursion group was made up of 25 people, including Lismore Adventist Church’s Pastor Keith Jackson and his wife Julie. They went by mini-bus or car to the delightful Manna Haven vegetarian café, which is run by Byron Bay Adventist Church members.

All the personnel working in the café are volunteers, except for the chef. This endeavour follows on from the church’s weekly free tea, which used to attract quite a lot of townspeople. The central location makes the church an ideal place for outreach.

Prior to the group’s tasty lunch, they were entertained by three members of the local group “Black Train.”

They played guitar, mandolin and banjo while singing Gospel bluegrass in the church. The “Golden Oldies,” including visitors, really enjoyed their day out and realised the value of the social aspect of life, both for its health benefits and for friendly contacts.

— Valerie Dunstan

There are currently two jobs available at the Manna Haven Café. If you are interested, please see the NNSW Conference’s Employment page — nnsw.adventist.org.au/employment — to find out more.

Young Avondale Memorial organists lead the world

Avondale Memorial Church is home to more than 20 young organ students — the largest group in Australia.

Following their European Organ Study Tour in September/October 2012, this vibrant and enthusiastic group of sixto 17-year-olds are now recognised nationally — and internationally — for their high standards of playing and their musical skills.

This was demonstrated on tour by playing some of the greatest organs in the world, culminating in a master class at Westminster Abbey, London. Interest in the Memorial Church organ program has been shown with enquiries from the USA, Canada, South Africa and Russia!

While in London, the group was invited by Anne Marsden Thomas, Director of the Royal College of Organists St Giles International Organ School, to give a recital and lecture on the Suzuki Organ method to teachers from the prestigious Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Organists.

Anne wrote afterwards, “We are immensely grateful to you for the magnificent presentation at St Giles. We teachers were enormously impressed by the skills — both of music-making and memorising — demonstrated by these young people.”

While training as all-round musicians for the future (many play several instruments), these young organists gain experience playing at local churches and further afield, having already covered four states of Australia.

On the concert platform, they have performed many times at the Sydney Opera House. Last December, they were invited for the second time to play at the Young Organist’s Day on the world-famous Grand Organ at the Sydney Town Hall.

In January this year, they gave an entire recital as part of the Rising Stars series at St Andrews Cathedral, Sydney, and were invited back by the Cathedral organist to do two more concerts this year.

An outreach program is planned to Melbourne in July this year, playing at churches of different faiths. It often seems miraculous how playing the “King of Instruments” opens doors to witness to the King of Kings in churches, concert halls and cathedrals around the world!

The Avondale Memorial Church family is more than 1000 strong and its pastoral team, led by Pastor Vadim Butov, provide a nurturing and supportive home for these aspiring organists, giving them opportunities to thrive and develop their skills in various services and cross-generational worship programs.

The excellent team of adult organists and worship leaders are always ready to offer words of encouragement and advice, as well as giving the students opportunities to play and gain experience in a wide variety of musical events.

The group give thanks to God for the gift of music and the amazing ways He has led in the development of the young organists’ program at Avondale Memorial Church.

— David Clark

Photo courtesy of David Newman

Umina Beach baptism for Joshua

OUR BAPTISMS

Matthew’s commitment to Christ at “Baptism Creek”

Matthew Bottin, a teenager from Kingscliff Adventist Church, made the decision to commit himself to Christ and was baptised on Sabbath afternoon, 29 December 2012.

Matt, an apprentice boiler-maker, says he always hoped to be baptised one day, but was leaving the timing in the Lord’s hands.

On Sabbath, 15 December 2012, Joshua Corda was baptised at Umina Beach. Pastor Eddie Mackie, who ministers to the Woy Woy Adventist Church, baptised Joshua. To commemorate the happy occasion, a special poem was written about the baptism:

We just want to thank the Lord For your step of faith, In coming to Him to be baptised And to go forth in His grace. We pray God’s hand will guide you Throughout your future years, And keep you faithful in His ways, And in His word and prayer. Your love for Jesus Christ Shines through in all you do, For there are many that will see The hope of Christ in you. We thank the Lord for you, For bringing you to this place

To be baptised in His precious name And to walk on in His grace.

— Carol Sickle

“I attended the Bible Boot Camp that ARISE held at our church back in 2011 and that was a turning point for me — I knew it was the right time,” he says.

Kingscliff Church’s Pastor Marcus Mundall conducted the baptism at Cudgen Creek in Kingscliff (appropriately nicknamed “Baptism Creek” by church members). Matt’s parents and siblings travelled from Kempsey to support him, and were overcome with emotion at witnessing the beautiful and life-changing moment, as were many of Matt’s church family.

Matt, who is 19 years old, plans to finish his apprenticeship and says he’s open to whatever ministry opportunities God has in store for him.

— Summer Lockley

Avondale School teacher finds a new life in Christ

Lakeside Adventist Church had the joy of welcoming a new member through baptism on Sabbath morning, 15 December 2012. Virginia Curzi is a language teacher at Avondale School. Many of her fellow staff members were present to encourage Virginia in her decision. For several months, Pastor Clive Nash studied with Virginia to prepare her for the occasion when she would publicly witness to her faith.

Virginia’s spiritual journey has been a long one. Brought up in another Christian tradition in Italy, she never imagined that Sunday was not the Bible Sabbath. Many other Bible teachings have gradually become clear to her. The friendship of godly teachers at Avondale School has been influential too.

Virginia says, “The real turning point for me spiritually was when I drove to Lakeside Church near my home, wrote down the telephone number of Pastor Nash, and called him to ask for Bible studies so that I could be baptised.” Later, Virginia would ask Pastor Nash whether it was common for people to telephone to ask for studies and baptism. We all wish that this was true.

Along the way, “Christianity – FAQ,” a class in fundamental beliefs at Lakeside Church, was a big help in exploring the Bible for Virginia. This class has operated

since early 2012. It was started by Wayne Humphries, a theology student at Avondale College and a 2012 graduate. When Wayne and his wife Bronwyn heard that Virginia was to be baptised the Sabbath after graduation, they felt they had to return from their new ministry roles in Queensland to share her joy.

Stephanie and Steven Waugh, Virginia’s two children, are high school students at Avondale School. They and other family members were present to witness the happy occasion. The sermon was presented by the North New South Wales Conference President Pastor Justin Lawman, who welcomed Virginia into membership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on behalf of the world church. Mel Olsen, Lakeside’s senior elder, also made her welcome.

Virginia and Bailey Hepworth, who had been baptised the previous Sabbath afternoon, were both voted into membership on the same Sabbath (see the February issue of NorthPoint). Both came to the door after the service for their church family to congratulate them and make them welcome.

— Monica Nash

OUR BAPTISMS

Five parents of CCAS students baptised

Rain. Pouring, torrential, soaking rain.

Sabbath morning, 2 February on the Central Coast was awash with heavy rain. For most people, this could be a sign to stay in bed until the last minute. But not for five individuals. This was not a day for sleeping in for five parents from Central Coast Adventist School (CCAS). It was a day where they publicly committed their lives to Jesus through baptism.

Dean Bennetts, Principal of CCAS, says, “The Haven Adventist Church, the school’s campus based partner church, welcomed these five special people into fellowship on a day of soaking rain. Neil Chippendale, Kate Sim, Donna Robertson, Janelle Yusuf and Meredith Campbell all took this significant step together on this great day.”

More than 100 friends and family crowded into the home of Colin and Carey Hone to support these baptisms in the family pool. After a time of song, sharing and testimony, the five baptismal candidates entered the pool one at a time to be reborn in the waters of baptism.

Dean says, “Comparisons abounded between the falling rain and the falling down of the Holy Spirt; the drenching in literal rain and the drenching of Heaven’s love.”

Pastors Nick Kross and Phil Bishop presided over the program. They, along with Dave Van Der Veer and Colin Hone, entered the water to care for each person as they went down to be baptised. Tears, hugs and smiles of joy transcended the shivering bodies and huddles of umbrellas.

At church back on the school grounds later that morning, Pastor Bob Bolst welcomed each new member and their families into fellowship. “What a truly wonderful day of celebration,” says Dean. “All of heaven stood and celebrated at this joyous event.”

— Dean Bennetts/NorthPoint

Bek joins Jesus at CCCC

What better way to start the year than a baptism!

The rain held off on the first Sabbath afternoon of February at Terrigal for Rebekah Douglas to give her heart to God through baptism. Witnessed by her parents Jeannine and David, and a crowd of around 60 people, it was a time to celebrate as many came forward to voice their love for this special girl — especially her spiritual mentors, Zoe Chenoweth and Trish Williams.

Pastor Wayne Krause and Nimrod Maua spoke of the excitement in Heaven over Bek’s baptism and encouraged those not baptised to also consider taking this lifechanging stand. Nimrod told how, in the baptismal class, Bek knew all the answers to biblical questions — a product of parents grounded in the Bible.

Earlier in the day at church, Pastor Krause asked why she wanted to get baptised. Her simple response? “I want to join Jesus.” It has been a pleasure for Central Coast Community Church members to watch her grow from a child to a young Christian woman with integrity and maturity. They hope God richly blesses Bek as she continues to serve Him.

— CCCC Newsletter

Photos courtesy of Brad Marshall

Spanish Company celebrates baptism

At 4.00pm on Sabbath, 5 January 2013, Angelica Henriquez was baptised at Hamilton Adventist Church by Pastor Jan Jankiewicz.

It was a beautiful, simple ceremony in the presence of friends and members of the Spanish Company’s congregation. Angelica was officially received as a new member of the Spanish Company on the following Sabbath. It really is a very heartwarming feeling to see yet another soul surrendering the earth to Jesus. The Spanish Company members hope God bless Angelica and helps her to never leave “The Blessed Hope.”

— Lilian Rodriguez

OUR SCHOOLS

Road to Bethlehem a blessing for CCAS and Erina Church

Road to Bethlehem 2012 was another huge success despite the poor weather. An unexpected delay in the delivery of the market stall tents and extremely windy weather meant that tents were still being set up on Sunday afternoon prior to the gates opening for the first night! Everything was completed just in time to welcome the throngs of people who had lined up for the event. With some 3000 people experiencing the drama tour and more wandering through the markets and activity areas, the campus of Central Coast Adventist School was a veritable hive of activity.

The wet weather didn’t seem to dampen peoples enthusiasm for this annual festive experience. The opportunity for families to kick off the Christmas season with a dramatised reenactment of the Christmas story continues to draw people from across the Central Coast region, and from as far afield as Port Macquarie, Sydney and Newcastle.

Highlights from the 2012 Road to Bethlehem included local Christian radio station Rhema FM 94.9 being rebranded for three nights as “Roma FM XCIV.IX.” There were also freerange farm animals in the street scenes and carpentry lessons for the children. There was also the opportunity to get up close to reptiles at the “Roamin’ Reptile Tent.” Kids could also get to face their fears by taking the Pinnacle Challenge. The numerous retail stalls selling baked goods, preserves, clothing, artwork and crafts provided a great opportunity for people wanting to grab something special for Christmas.

— Brenton Luchow

Photos courtesy of David Gosling

Enrolments top 1000 at Avondale School

A record number of students have arrived at Cooranbong’s Avondale School classrooms as enrolment figures top the 1000 mark for the first time ever.

With 1005 combined primary and secondary students now on the books, Avondale School has seen a dramatic 20 per cent increase in enrolments since school principal Dr David Faull first took tenure 10 years ago.

“Dr Faull immediately recognised the potential for significant growth when he joined us in 2003, and has worked tirelessly since then to secure government building grants and extend campus facilities to capture new demand,” says Karen Zeuschner, head of the school’s Marketing and Development Department.

“Our record enrolments are a testament to his leadership and vision,” she says. “It is exciting to watch our enrolments continue to grow, as a larger student body provides the capacity for more activities, sports, specialist teachers and facilities. In the past year alone we have added a specialist Trade Training Centre, three new Year 6 classrooms and a Sports Office.”

Even as the campus expands, so does the waiting list.

“It is clear that parents are looking for education that is consistent with their own values, and that families choose to make the investment in Avondale School because it not only meets their religious and social values, but provides the best schooling for their children,” says Karen.

— Felicity Pittaway

FEATURES

Josh Bolst (filmmaking), Nathan Dalton (filmmaking) and Shelley Poole (fine arts) — all young adults from around the North New South Wales Conference — were among the winners of the Manifest Creative Arts Festival competitions in 2012. The festival returns this year — entries in each of the six competitions close 8 March. Looking for inspiration? The three explain the relationship between their craft and their faith. You’re passionate about your craft. Why?

Shelley: Art allows me a space to reflect, to problem solve and to heal. Painting can be rewarding, but it’s also confronting. Sometimes I’m singing at the top of my lungs, at other times I’m crying on the floor.

Nathan: Filmmaking is stressful, compromising and heart breaking, yet somehow therapeutic. There’s something special about making something that doesn’t exist elsewhere.

Josh: Operating video cameras in church from a young age sparked my interest in film, and now I love having the opportunity to portray important concepts through a medium our culture relates to.

What role does creativity play in your faith journey?

Josh: I use film to share my faith. Creating films that lead people closer to God is exciting and rewarding, and something that helps me connect to God on another level.

Shelley: Creating art is a means of hanging out with God in a deeply personal way. Reflecting on artworks helps complete my picture of God in a way that reading books and hearing sermons rarely can — it’s a kind of communion. Painting brings things from the periphery to the forefront of my mind and allows the Holy Spirit to speak to me.

Nathan: Filmmaking helps me explore people and experiences in rich, new ways. It’s a medium through which to share joys, doubts and questions. Someone wise once told me I didn’t need to make Christian films — my faith will seep into whatever I make.

How important is creativity and free expression in a Christian context?

Shelley: Creativity breathes God’s spirit into everyday situations, and it doesn’t have to be expressed artistically: it can be a problem-solving businessman or an encouraging teacher. Creativity is simply a way of thinking.

Nathan: The creative act of storytelling is powerful. It has the potential to say things that might otherwise come across as being preachy. I love the way Jesus often told abstract stories instead of giving black-and-white answers.

Josh: Creativity is a gift from God, and seeking to glorify Him with our talents is an important part of everyone’s Christian experience.

— Josh Dye

Entries for the Manifest Creative Arts Festival (20 to 23 March) close Friday, 8 March. Find out more at www.artsmanifest.info.

As I sit in a corner of Nairobi Airport awaiting my flight home, tears flow freely as I think of the friends and family I will be leaving behind, as well as so many opportunities to share and reach the Maasai communities where I had been living for the past three months.

Awaiting me in Australia is my daughter, my family and friends, a comfortably-carpeted bedroom, a long, hot shower, beaches, clean water. Yet my thoughts go back to my mudwalled, dirt-floor home in the middle of the forest in Kenya, where to cook a simple meal or heat water for my “dish bath,” I must first light the fire in a small eco-stove. There is no electricity, refrigeration or running water, I must carry my clothes to the river to wash them. Yet my heart breaks as I leave these people I have grown to love and feel a part of.

To turn your life upside down, resign from your job, and leave all that is safe and comfortable to fly 24 hours to a life that is very much unknown takes either courage and dedication, or you must be crazy. I am still unsure which is the best description, as living in a country and with a people whose culture and lives are so very different to everything you have ever known and believed in has many challenges — both emotional and physical.

Kisaru Nkera Initiatives (KINI) has come from a desire in my heart to help the poor and often neglected children and women of the Maasai people in Kenya. The time I spent living with them in their community in 2012 was some of the most challenging and fulfilling of my life. It taught me to rely on God each and every moment, and I believe He has brought me to these people. He has opened up opportunities that I never realised I would have. These opportunities include the plan to run a “Right of Passage Program” for young Maasai girls where they will be able to enjoy their rite of passage into womanhood without the horrors of undergoing female circumcision.

2013 saw the Kisaru Entito School open with 48 children attending, along with three teachers and 10 “cow boys and girls” for a year of growth and learning. The “cow boys and girls” are children who would have not had the opportunity to have an education because of the expectation that they would care for their family’s livestock. These children are aged between 10 and 15 and will be in their own class where they will be accelerated through the grades, as they are able to learn at a faster pace.

Sadly, though, all of the school’s children still have to meet in the dilapidated two-roomed, dirt-floor mud building until funds are available to build a stone and concrete building to enable greater learning opportunities. However, to be able to see 49 children have an opportunity to receive an education, health care and a chance to have the ability to make choices with knowledge they would otherwise never have — as well as work with the mother, grandmothers and carers — makes it all worthwhile. All children attending the Kisaru Entito School are given a uniform, shoes, all school supplies, medical checks and medicine if needed, and two meals a day.

The erection of the new school building and the ongoing support of the school, children and other community programs relies solely on donations from those who would like to see this and other communities be given opportunity to a better, healthier life. If you would like to be involved and sponsor a child or make a general donation, please contact Barbara on +61 422 109 264 or email kisaruentitoproject@gmail.com.

— Barbara Parkins, CEO and Founder Kisaru Nkera Initiatives (KINI), is a member of Macksville Adventist Church. KINI is Maasai for “Rescue Children” (KINI means small).

Creativity and Christianity: Manifest award winners on how the arts influences their faith

Kisaru Nkera Initiatives: “Rescue a child, rescue a community”

FEATURES

Bookmarks, falafel and the One

Last week a bookmark fell out of my Bible. Bits and pieces fall out of my Bible regularly — an old church bulletin, a photo, a folded scrap of paper that was once a nominating report, but is now a scribble of notes from a sermon. My Bible often becomes a type of makeshift filing system, and at times it even seems a bit like a Mary Poppins carpet bag with all the wonder that I find in there. This particular bookmark was actually the commitment card and pledge

I made at the One Project gathering in Sydney last year.

“I, Jo, commit to Jesus the One by….”

It was over a messy lunch of falafel wraps and not-very-chilled orange juice outside our humble green conference tent (in the pouring rain) at Big Camp in 2011 that Pastor Eddie Hypolite told my husband and I about this thing. This… gathering. He described a bunch of guys — pastor types — who met in a hotel room and prayed and fasted and sought Jesus. What eventuated from that one intensely spiritual hotel-roomhuddle was a series of gatherings — discussions, really — about refocusing hearts and homes and ministries on Jesus Christ. We were intrigued, to say the least, but we didn’t quite . . . get it. He encouraged us to check out the website and learn more.

Once we arrived home and tackled the inevitable Mount Washmore that appears in the laundry after a week at Stuarts Point (you know it), we celebrated our reunion with wifi by exploring the One Project website.

We were so inspired and encouraged by what we found that we began watching the videos on the website as our devotions together. We realised that it’s easy to get

distracted. It’s easy to forget the point — I often forget why I even walked into a room! Both of us admitted that it’s easy to find so many good things to read, good things to do, good ministries to be a part of that our lives and our minds become busy, but not necessarily full. And we want to be full — every part, every crease and corner and crack filled with Jesus Christ. Overflowing. We didn’t want to be people who spent their lives devoted to the church. We want to be people who are devoted to Jesus Christ. We realised that we spent hours talking about church, but not about Jesus. So last year we spent two days in Sydney amongst pastors, lay people, conference and union leaders, celebrating the supremacy of Jesus Christ. And it has continued to shape our own lives of devotion, our home and our ministries ever since. It may have only been two days, but it was two days of honest conversation, reflections and prayer. Not only was the teaching uplifting, but the unity experienced was incredibly encouraging. We appreciated the simplicity, the straight-forward approach that allowed us to interact with others, and the authenticity that permeated every part of the gathering. There were some familiar faces, as well as many unfamiliar ones, but we both experienced a distinct sense of belonging. We were reminded that there can never be enough conversation about Jesus Christ. There can never be too much attention or focus on Him, and that Adventism is at its best when it is wholly concentrated on Him. Jesus in our history. Jesus in our theology. Jesus in our mission. Jesus in our experience. Jesus. All.

The One Project has expanded its reach to include gatherings in Australia, Europe and North America. Our North New South Wales Conference has been given the wonderful opportunity and honour to host the 2013 gathering in Australia, in Newcastle on 20 and 21 July in the City Hall. If you believe that our pulpits, classrooms, worship halls, board rooms, living rooms — life! — should be drenched in the Spirit of Jesus, then register for the gathering in Newcastle. You might even get a cool new bookmark for your Mary Poppins-style Bible.

— Joanna and Leighton Darby, Wallsend Church.

Visit www.the1project.org to find out more, including the schedule and speakers for the weekend, and to register. There are only 300 spaces available! The discount for early registration closes on 4 April. For more information, contact Jeff Parker on (02) 4951 8088 or jeffparker@adventist.org.au.

Trust Services: Wills after separation or divorce

The impact separation or divorce has on relationships is like a meteorite hitting the earth. Separation and divorce affect every aspect of life. One of the results of separation is the need to revoke your former Will — which would have been made in conjunction with your partner — by making a new Will.

Therefore, it is important to take legal advice when making a new Will after a separation or divorce. There are a number of factors to consider when making a Will in these situations, and the advice of a professional is highly recommended.

Separation in itself does not revoke a Will or effect the legality of the Will made with your estranged spouse, so you will need to ensure that you create a new Will to reflect your current relationship situation. For example, you may have appointed your spouse’s father or brother as an executor in your estate, which, given the circumstances, you may not want to have happen.

In the case of divorce, once the divorce notice has been issued, any reference to a former spouse in your Will (if you don’t make a new one) is treated as if that person has passed away — the

estate passes to the next person nominated in your Will.

If you pass away, any children you have had will typically be in the care of your former spouse (unless there has been some kind of abuse or situation that would mean they are ineligible to care for them). When making a new Will, it is a good idea to consider who can act as guardians for your children should you and your former spouse both die.

To recap: marriage revokes a former Will (unless it was made “in contemplation of marriage”), but divorce does not revoke a Will.

— Adele Nash

This advice is general and not necessarily applicable to individual situations.

To book an appointment with Trust Services, please call (02) 4951 8088 or email Pastor Woods’s secretary Lyn Price at lynprice@adventist.org.au.

Visit http://nnsw.adventist.org.au/trust-services