NorthPoint - December, 2014

Macquarie College’s Spring Fair fosters community spirit

From rides to high tea, a wide variety of stalls and live entertainment, the Macquarie College Spring Fair of 2014 was certainly an event that will not be forgotten quickly. With scorching temperatures and a blistering sun, it’s not hard to believe that the giant water slide was definitely the hit of the day.

This was followed very closely by the dunk tank, which allowed students some retribution on their teachers, including Principal Dr Bruce Youlden. Head of Senior School Marvin Anderson said, “Being in the dunk tank was the best 15 minutes of my day!”

Each Spring Fair program is designed to foster a community spirit, not only within the Macquarie College family, but also with the wider community — and this year was no different. The organising committee certainly outdid themselves this year by vastly increasing the number of stall holders, providing increased notoriety for sponsors and a significant growth in attendee numbers.

The community spirit commenced with the students and their parents, as each year level works together to produce an effective stall in an effort to raise funds for the college. This is a great way for parents to get to know other parents, and for the students to learn how to work together as a team.

A semi-trailer donated by Black Hill Transport was the setting for the live entertainment for the day. With various musical items from many of the college’s ensembles, including the staff band, the entertainment also included a highly-skilled martial arts demonstration from Hunter Valley Martial Arts, a dance routine by the Breakaway Dancers and a lively magician show.

For those who were not up for the excitement of the outdoor events, the Senior School Hospitality Students ran a full café service from their industrial-level kitchen and catering rooms.

With a full menu including savoury and sweet options, and hot and cold beverages, the production was certainly professional. To continue the high-class experience, the Visual Arts department showed the entries for the Spring Fair Art Competition in the classrooms next door.

After many months of hard work and organisation, the college community were extremely proud to announce that more than $16,000 was raised for the school.

— Alysha Knopper

Photos courtesy of Alysha Knopper

If you missed out on all the excitement this year, don’t forget to look out for details of Macquarie College’s next Spring Fair on their website <www.macquariecollege.nsw.edu.au>.

Page 2: From the President: Praise God for 2014

9: “Dora Creek CHIP saved my life”

OUR CONFERENCE From the President: Praise God for 2014

God has really blessed the church in North New South Wales in 2014. For this, we thank Him and praise Him. Despite the challenges and the ups and downs of life, He has come through again — as He always does.

The highest number of baptisms and professions of faith in 30 years

It has been amazing to witness how we’ve seen a renewal in the growth of our church, both in 2013 and now in 2014. This charge has been led by our pastoral team who have been a real inspiration to me personally. Our focus has been on making disciples, and as we intentionally focus on investing in people, we have seen an increase in the number of people baptised in our conference. The final numbers are still coming in, but it looks like they’ll be the highest in a generation.

Praise God for the faithfulness of our members

The members who are faithfully serving God in their local church, who believe in the mission that Jesus Christ has given us, are an absolute inspiration to me. More than ever, we see members getting involved in ministry, sharing their faith, and inviting friends to programs and church services. I know that this is the way God will finish His work and it’s really special to witness it.

A youth-driven revival

I’m especially thankful for how young people are taking up the call to be fully committed servants of Jesus Christ. Pastors Rick Hergenhan and Michael Chapman are really changing the whole focus of our Youth Ministries Department, and the work they do is wonderful. The ARISE Bible workers are making an amazing impact in local churches and communities all around our conference. Their inspirational commitment and dedication is changing people’s lives forever. Next year, we’ll have another fantastic group who’ll kick off their ARISE training in February.

Praise God for faithful teachers and chaplains

So much of what we do in the wider community is through our schools. We have really seen a great renewal of our educators to further the mission of the church. It is hard to measure what the investment in young people and their families will ultimately do, but it is amazing to witness. Our schools and churches must develop a closer relationship for our mission to be fulfilled.

Christmas

I hope you and your family have a very safe and loving Christmas. I hope you can look out for people who are lonely at this time of year — those who don’t have family to share with — and include them in your family’s plans if you can. I hope you really enjoy the holidays over Summer as a time of refreshment and renewal so that we can see the church continue to grow in 2015.

— Pastor Justin Lawman

Around The Traps is a weekly e-newsletter from Pastor Justin Lawman. It features a devotional and news from the conference. To subscribe, send an email to <northpoint@adventist.org.au> with “E-newsletter subscription” in the subject line.

Chief Financial Officer’s report: November snapshot

The chart below shows a forecast 2014 tithe result for the North New South Wales Conference, with a falling tithe position when compared with 2013.

Tithe in 2014 is expected to be down by $298,000 on the previous year’s actuals and $622,000 on the current year’s budget.

The conference’s 2015 tithe budget has been built on a four per cent increase on the forecast 2014 result. The average yearly increase in tithe in our conference over the past 10-plus years has been four per cent.

In the face of a declining tithe position in 2014, and in order to ensure that local church evangelism and frontline mission is not impaired, the executive committee has taken action to generate savings within head office.

In 2015, we are planning to use tithe to promote the mission of the church by spending it as per the table below. Our goal is to spend 55 per cent of our tithe on local church ministers, Bible workers and frontline evangelism, as we believe that this is the highest and best use of our tithe as per the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. Note that we will come close to this target in 2015.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your faithfulness to God in the important area of tithing.

— Russell Halliday

Avondale Lifestyle Community takes top award for aged care

Cooranbong’s Avondale Lifestyle Community was recently nationally recognised for its contribution to improving the quality of life for aged care residents at the 2014 National Diversional Therapy Awards, held in Adelaide.

Lindl Webster, from Avondale Lifestyle Community, was named recipient of the inaugural Diversional Therapy Award for Excellence at a lavish Diversional Therapy Australia presentation and award ceremony in Adelaide on 19 September. Receiving the award for her cutting-edge work in person-centred care for residents at the Adventist Senior Living-owned and -operated aged care facility, Lindl developed an intergenerational program engaging local high school students to design and create an item to improve the life of an elderly person.

Throughout the collaboration with Avondale High technology students, Lindl says it was “immensely rewarding to observe the interactions between students and residents, and to watch concepts become meaningful creations that our residents enjoy using every single day.”

She adds, “It was an added bonus to receive the award for work I am already so passionate about. Bringing distant generations together breaks down those barriers between the elderly and youth, allowing both the opportunity to grow and share.”

“It is fantastic to see Lindl recognised for her talents and her ongoing contribution to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents,” says Adventist Senior Living CEO David Knight. “Her achievement cements Adventist Senior Living as an industry leader in Diversional Therapy and we congratulate Lindl on carving out a growing reputation as one of the country’s most talented diversional therapists.”

— Felicity Pittaway

Applications now available online for Big Camp 2015

Applications for Big Camp 2015 can be found as an insert in this issue of NorthPoint, but in addition to this and for the first time in North New South Wales (NNSW) Conference history, people will be able to apply for Big Camp online at <http://nnsw. adventist.org.au>.

Pastor Paul Geelan, General Secretary of the NNSW Conference, says, “Software developments and upgrades made by the South Pacific Division have allowed online applications. It’s an efficiency gain for us here in the office, but also meets the demand for online applications, which people have been asking for for some time.”

It is hoped that more payments relating to Big Camp — such as activities and possibly even cafeteria meals — will be moved online in future. The streamlining and simplicity has the added benefit of people knowing right away whether their application has been successful. “This method provides instant feedback,” says Pastor Geelan. “We really encourage NNSW church members to make the most of the online application option!”

— Adele Nash

OUR CONFERENCE

Egyptian display transforms activity centre into Tutankhamun’s tomb replica

Kressville Activity Centre was transformed into King Tutankhamun’s tomb at Avondale Lifestyle Community during the month of November, as Pastor Wayne French set up his display of genuine and replica Egyptian artefacts. Pastor French is pictured below with some of the display.

Over the course of a week, he shared his unique perspective on ancient Egypt and how it supports our belief in Bible truth.

Pastor French’s message was presented to a keen group of residents, and also televised over Avondale Lifestyle Community’s in-house TV system back into resident villas and the two residential aged care facilities.

Pastor French also shared with residents his passion and vision for sharing his collection with today’s young people in Australia’s public schools.

— Lorin Bradford

Currawah decision made

On Sabbath, 8 November, a meeting was held in Brewarrina to decide the future of Currawah Adventist Aboriginal College. Currawah had been voluntarily closed since August 2013 (see the September 2013 issue of NorthPoint) following a failure to comply with a number of areas highlighted by the New South Wales Board of Studies.

The meeting held in November was attended by around 40 people from places like Kempsey, Armidale, Port Macquarie, Newcastle, Bourke, Brewarrina, Moree, Dubbo and Sydney. The meeting led to the formation of the Currawah Aboriginal Education Centre (Aboriginal Corporation). A new constitution was voted through and a board of directors appointed. The organisation will function in a way similar to that of Karalundi, while the premises will remain owned by the North New South Wales Conference.

Pastor Steve Piez, Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM) for the Australian Union Conference, says, “This is quite a milestone for ATSIM and it gives Currawah a good chance of reopening in 2016. The new board of directors met on the Sunday morning and requested that the Currawah working party source a principal to assist with all the duties required to get the school restarted.”

The group also enjoyed meeting with the Brewarrina church plant group. “Keith Stockwell has a real vibrant program happening,” says Pastor Piez. “He’s supported by his wife Danuta, along with Sid and Rongo Richards, Les Doole and others from the Brewarrina community. It’s great to see the success of this church plant.”

— Adele Nash

Lindl Webster (left) receives the National Diversional Therapy Award for Excellence from Diversional Therapy Australia President Louise Absalom, presented recently in Adelaide.

First-ever Chaplains’ Conference

In October, most of the school chaplains from around the North New South Wales (NNSW) Conference met together on the midnorth coast for the NNSW Conference’s first-ever Chaplains’ Conference.

The two-day event was kicked off by Pastor Justin Lawman, President of the NNSW Conference, who vision cast a new era in chaplaincy for NNSW. Chaplains were inspired by his message that they should see themselves as “spiritual leaders” in their schools.

On the second day, Evangelism Director Matt Para held an excellent workshop for the chaplains on “gaining decisions” in their work of leading young people and families to Jesus. The chaplains also spent quality time in brainstorming groups, as they built on Pastor Lawman’s vision for chaplaincy and planned into the future. It was a significant time for reflection, renewal and recharging as the chaplains bonded together as a team.

Brian Reed from Avondale School commented after the event, “In my five years of chaplaincy, I can’t remember anything so nurturing and encouraging as the retreat you gave us. It was just incredibly special. The activities, worships, presenters and fellowship with the other chaplains was really, really important, powerful and appreciated. Personally, I felt a renewed call to ministry, to a closer walk with Jesus, and a new mandate to be my school’s spiritual leader.”

The Chaplains’ Conference is planned to be an annual event.

Coonamble Church reopens

On Sabbath, 18 October, more than 50 adults and children turned up to the official re-opening of Coonamble Community Church.

Shaun Hepworth, who has been working with the community in Coonamble to reopen the church, says, “People came from far and near to celebrate the occasion, and to hear testimonies from people who have ministered in Coonamble, both past and present.”

This included people from STORM Co teams, Vacation Bible School groups, Adventist Aviation Association members and Literature Evangelists, as well as Pastor Justin Lawman, President of the North New South Wales Conference, who was the guest speaker. He says, “It was a blessing to be there and give the sermon. The work in Coonamble is just beginning, but people from the community are showing interest.”

Shaun says, “A rousing song service completed an inspiring Sabbath and led into an Amazing Race social event around the township of Coonamble. A memorable day was had by all.”

The church was originally opened in 1994, but it had been dormant with no members for some time. Shaun and his family moved to Coonamble from Bonnells Bay to serve the township. In reaching out, they have run weekly Kids’ Clubs, and have even had a new building constructed for the children.

— Adele Nash

Manning Week of Worship focuses on kindness

Pastor Schick says, “It was a special opportunity to be invited to take the Week of Worship for the school. It was a great experience, and I enjoyed myself as much as the kids seemed to. During the week, the kids learnt about Jesus’ model of how we are to treat each other with kindness. The thing about showing kindness to others is that, apart from it being the way Jesus wants us to act, it seems to bless the giver just as much as the receiver, and kindness has a way of coming back to us.”

In mid-October, pastor Alvin Schick, Chaplaincy Coordinator for the North New South Wales Conference, ran the Week of Worship program at Manning Adventist School. Entitled “The Kindness Boomerang,” Pastor Schick’s theme focussed on the value of kindness, and featured stories, illustrations and video clips that showed the benefits of being kind or displaying kindness, along with how sowing kindness reaps immense rewards for both receiver and giver. Students and staff were all invited to commit their lives to acts of kindness.

Mike Dye, Manning Adventist School Principal, says, “We produced a banner, ‘Hands of Kindness,’ which will be displayed in our hall as a lasting memory of the week. Students and staff placed their handprints on the material, together with their names, to pledge that they wanted to use their hands — and hearts and voices — in acts of kindness. Thank-you Pastor Alvin for sharing your time and talents with us — for sharing the Gospel with us — because what God did for us was no different. He came and gave, in acts of kindness, that we may live better lives.”

OUR CONFERENCE NORTHPOINT

Pastor Schick enjoyed his week of getting to know the students and staff at the Manning school. “At the end of the week, the kids shared their experiences and what they got out of it,” he says. “One little chap declared, ‘I loved everything — all the stories, the video clips — everything. There was nothing I didn’t like — not one crumb!’ With that sort of affirmation, I might be tempted to do it again!”

— Manning Adventist School Newsletter/Pastor Alvin Schick/NorthPoint

— Pastor Alvin Schick (Chaplaincy Coordinator, NNSW Conference)

Kids’ Clubs at Muswellbrook and Singleton

With a desire to develop a regular follow-up to the Kids’ Club held in September last year, Singleton Church decided to run a Kids’ Club one Sabbath every month throughout the year, inviting those children who had attended as well as others from the community. Each Sabbath, a theme is chosen and the hall creatively set up to reflect that theme, along with themed crafts and foods for that day. Stories such as Noah, Jonah, Creation, and David and Goliath have been used.

Kathy Bonham-Smith, and Leah and Libby Adamthwaite in particular have put hours of work into this venture, and feel well-rewarded when they see the interest and enthusiasm of the children. It is heart-warming to see the same children returning each month, along with some new ones. We trust that in time this will result in young lives and their families changed for God’s glory.

This has inspired the Muswellbrook Church members. Although few in number, Muswellbrook Church members wanted to reach out to the children in the community with God’s love. With Shirley Easthope’s inspiration and enthusiasm, they decided to follow in Singleton’s footsteps from the previous year and run a Kids’ Club during the September school holidays. They were able to make great use of the props and displays for the “Everywhere Fun Fair” theme kindly offered by the Singleton Church, as well as adding their own personal flair. Many hours of preparation ensued and the result was amazing. Each day of the week, a different country theme as varied as Japan, Zimbabwe and Mexico were highlighted.

Pastor Miroslav Stilinovic became “Telly,” and Raewyn Keeley as the yellow, floppy bird puppet “Godwin” enthralled the kids with her lively bird-like chatter. They were a great hit with the children as they introduced the daily themes, Bible verses and stories. Song-time with Peter Easthope warmed up in excitement as the week progressed. Pastor Stilinovic, Ruth Stilinovic and Peter dressed in Bible-time costume as they acted out, with the help of designated children, the Bible story for the day. The Science Corner with Peter was enthusiastically enjoyed, as were the outdoor games. Jess, Kim and Nicki made the snack time really appealing, and Ruth, Shirley and Raquel kept their hands and creative minds busy with a variety of craft activities.

In all, 24 children had their lives touched by God, the vast majority being from the community. Mums and grandparents expressed their appreciation for all the effort that had been put forward just for their children. In follow-up visits, the children are still excited and enthusiastic. God has impacted their young lives. May these seeds of faith germinate and flourish as they grow into adulthood.

— Ruth Stilinovic

OUR CHURCHES

“Ancient Empires” archaeology exhibition comes to Dorrigo

the little country town on the plateau with its unique old world charm when it hosted an archaeological exhibition from 28 September to 10 October.

Under the leadership of their minister Don Sforcina, and with the help of his wife Aileen, and Pastor Bob Manners, Merrilyn Manners and Abel Iorgulescu from Coffs Harbour and Coffs Coast Churches, the Dorrigo Church hall was transformed into a place where “Ancient Empires” were revealed, showing their connection to Bible history.

Overall, 554 people came through the doors of the Dorrigo Church hall to view the exhibition. They came from Dorrigo, Bellingen, Armidale, Coffs Harbour, Brisbane, Toowoomba, Sydney and South Australia. It was common for people to stay for more than two hours. Some returned for a second and third time.

The husband of one family who participated in a guided tour, led by John Fry, told him, “You have given me something to think about,” while they enjoyed a bowl of traditional Egyptian red lentil soup. The wife later emailed to say, “Thank you for your genuine kindness towards us all. It has left a deep impression on my husband, which is rare for him regarding Christian people. My family are enjoying the magazines especially my husband. So thank you.”

The Dorrigo townspeople repeatedly remarked, “Thank you for bringing the exhibition to Dorrigo.”

The final day of the exhibition was the busiest, with students from two schools, plus members from the community, in attendance — taking the total attendance for the day to 157 people.

When it came time to pack up the exhibits, church members turned up with their friends to help. The entire exhibition was packed into the crates and loaded into the bus ready for transportation in a record four-and-a-half hours. Thank you Dorrigo Church members and helpers for a job well done.

— Aileen Sforcina

OUR CHURCHES

Cessnock-Kurri Pathfinder reunion

Hey, hey! It’s hay time

On 11 October, Kurri Kurri Church hosted a Cessnock-Kurri Pathfinders reunion, celebrating years of Pathfindering for the group. The day was well-attended, with 32 guests at the morning services, a number of whom have never been Adventists.

Pastor Wilf Pascoe, who was the minister of Kurri Kurri Church twice in his career, took the morning service, and Kurri Kurri’s current minister Pastor Ken Love, says, “Wilf entwined Pathfinder teachings and experience with spiritual reflections.”

Numbers increased to around 60 people at lunch and for the afternoon’s program. People who attended included local ex-Pathfinders and other members.

Barry Plane was the MC after lunch. Warren Brown shared old 8mm films of the first Pathfinder Camporee at Yarramundi, which the audience found captivating. Around 300 photos stirred the memories further. Kingsley Eager shared a spiritual thought and also challenged attendees with a DVD presentation about the work of his wife Helen, who aids the victims of the sex trade in Nepal.

Pastor Love says, “Great appreciation was expressed toward the numerous leaders — most of whom attended. Some hope to organise a camp-out including their children and grandchildren in order to share the experiences gained decades ago. Others shared how their Pathfinder days had a profound impact and had been integral in their lives. Lots of conversations and fun was had by all.”

He notes, “Pathfinder clubs change lives, and create lifelong friendships and experiences. I salute leaders past and present whose efforts impact lives immeasurably.”

NorthPoint/Pastor Ken Love

Lakeside family baptised

Sabbath afternoon, 8 November, was a very happy occasion for the Keegan family from Lakeside Church. On that afternoon, the five members of the family were baptised at Shingle Splitters Point on Lakes Macquarie. It all began when Ryan, the second-oldest son, decided he wanted to be baptised. His uncle, Pastor David Price, began studies with Ryan, but the whole family decided they would all join in the studies.

Soon Rohan, the youngest son, decided he would like to be baptised too. It wasn’t very long before Callan, the eldest son, decided he would like to be rebaptised. Both Jenny and Mark decided they would like to make a recommitment to the Lord by being rebaptised. So, on 8 November, all five members of the family were baptised by Pastor Price, with assistance of Lakeside’s Pastor Peter Watts.

A large group of relatives and friends were present to witness the happy occasion. Jenny’s mother came all the way from Busselton in Western Australia to be present.

Pam Hill

Toronto Church Care Group received special mention in the paper published for Cumborah residents when a truckload of hay and donated home supplies was sent to the drought-stricken town by Aussiecare.

“There were even presents of choc-a-block ‘bathroom bags’ made by the SDA Toronto Ladies Group ...” the paper reported. Other groups had donated items, but the bathroom bags were obviously a big hit! Each of the bathroom bags contained toiletries, plus a card with a Bible verse and message from the church, as well as a small Gospel or Steps to Christ

Toronto women work hard during the year, sewing beautiful patchwork quilts, no two the same, which are given to families who experience a tragedy. Joyous occasions in the church, such as a wedding, are also celebrated with the gift of a quilt. Each quilt has the message“ stitched with love and prayers by your friends at Toronto SDA Church.”

Over the past year, the women have given away more than 60 quilts and 50 bathroom bags. Each quilt takes many days to prepare, design and sew, and the women are grateful for the help of the Xsanity group of quilters from Morisset. Quilts are given to people who have been affected by fire, death of a relative or sickness. A family whose baby was the victim of a cot death was overwhelmed at receiving a quilt as a token of the sympathy of the church. Others who lost their homes in fires have been touched at the kindness of strangers.

All these quilts cost money and the women hold a High Tea each year to help raise funds for the care group. Sixty people came to the recent High Tea held at Toronto Church on a Sunday afternoon. The food was delicious and everyone enjoyed the special occasion. More than $1600 was raised.

— Michelle Down

Baptism after Bible studies by telephone

On 25 October, Alisimere (Alisi) Tigara made public her decision to accept Jesus as her Saviour and Friend in front of a crowd of church members and Fijian friends, who gathered beside the Boambee River, near Coffs Harbour, to witness her baptism.

After visiting the Coffs Harbour Adventist Church one Sabbath, Alisi wanted to know more and requested Bible studies from ministerial intern Abel Iorgulescu. These studies were later given by church member Fine Sauliga after Alisi moved to a temporary residence in Cooranbong.

Fine continued giving studies by phone so that Alisi could complete the course and be baptised. Alisi is planning to return to Coffs soon, and looks forward to fellowshipping and supporting her new church family in sharing the Good News of Jesus.

Pastor Bob Manners

Spanish Day raises funds for ADRA’s Knocktober Appeal

OUR CHURCHES

Port Macquarie celebrates fifth annual Creation Sabbath service

Port Macquarie Adventist Church’s fifth annual International Creation Sabbath service was a huge success this year. The church was absolutely packed for the day, which Margaret McKay (pictured, right), who organised the program, says was the biggest number of people attending church for at least 10 years.

On the evening of 11 November, the Newcastle Spanish Company celebrated Spanish Day to raise funds for the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Appeal collection this year. There was a costume parade representing seven Latin American countries, then a sale of typical delicious dishes.

There was a 100 per cent participation rate from members, friends and visitors alike, who all enjoyed a wonderful and rewarding experience, all to the glory of God. The following week on the Sunday, some of the church members went to Charlestown Square Shopping Centre to collect money for the Knocktober cause. From these two activities — plus some private collection of donations from family and friends — a total of $2148 was raised.

Lilian Rodriguez

Memorial hosts “Mind Matters in a Secular Age” seminars

In a recent series of three Sabbath afternoon seminars, held on 8, 15 and 22 November, an enthusiastic group of around 60 people from local Adventist churches and the community met at Avondale Memorial Adventist Church to reflect on the causes of secularism, what it means for the way we think in the 21st century, and its significance for the church today.

The series ended with reflection on the meaning of secular orthodoxy and its significance in events prior to the return of Jesus. The series was presented by Dr Don Roy, a Senior Lecturer from Avondale College of Higher Education. Because of the interest generated by the seminars, it is hoped that further seminars on related topics led by other presenters will be organised for the New Year.

Dr Don C Roy

People came to the special service from the Wauchope, Kempsey, Telegraph Point at Taree Adventist Churches, and they were joined by many people from other denominations from the local area.

As well as 11 video clips and lots of photos, the service featured presentations about creation, given by a number of young people.

“The children did not disappoint the crowds with taking the entire service,” says Margaret. “A church service on ‘The Ice Age and the Woolly Mammoth’ is not your usual topic! The singing was also magnificent — just like a choir of angels — and they were capably taught be Jeanelle and Russell Ing.”

The 26 children and youth involved in the service spoke their parts with discipline and maturity, and kept the congregation’s attention throughout the entire service. “I’ve never felt so proud of a group of capable young folk aged from four to 16 years,” says Margaret. The children came to creation lessons each fortnight on a Sabbath afternoon this year and are from six different churches. It was a big commitment for them, but I know we hope and pray that we are training future creation scientists and Bible workers for God.”

The children are taught about God’s incredible creation work and how to defend the Book of Genesis — along with the rest of the Bible. Margaret reports that the group will grow to 40 children next year, with 12 from other denominations.

— NorthPoint/Margaret McKay

OUR CHURCHES

Singleton Show outreach

For the second year running, Singleton Adventist Church booked a booth in the main hall at the Singleton Annual Show, held on 26 and 27 September. Showcased were the Beyond DVD series, as well as various resources the church has to offer in the areas of spiritual growth, relationships, health and lifestyle.

Andrew Kochanski kindly came all the way from the Misty Mountain Health Retreat to set up and man a colourful display of spiritual books for children and adults, along with food and recipe books, and volumes on health and lifestyle.

Handing out helium-filled balloons with Bible verses attached was a great way to interact with those passing by, along with distributing free samples of Up&Go and Weet-Bix from the Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing display. The church members pray that all those who were in engaged in conversation or received leaflets, Beyond DVDs or purchased books have been touched by the Holy Spirit.

— Ruth Stilinovic

Baptism at Maitland

Lily Ryan was invited to church by a friend — and soon found herself “at home.” Lily came to Melbourne from China, and later moved to Maitland, where she visited a number of Christian churches, but none were as welcoming as the local Adventist church. She found the members for the Maitland Church kind and helpful, and quickly felt this was the right place to be. She has made friend and appreciates the social dimension. She particularly enjoys Sabbath school and the discussion group, where she continues to learn about God and His plans for her.

Lily was recently baptised by Pastor Esava Koro, and she reflects that his visits, his help and the regular opportunity to talk with him all led to her decision to join the church, where she says that she “feels at home.” With her daughters, Lily also regularly supports myCHURCH, a new community at Gillieston Heights, south Maitland, where “messy church” (for young children) in an important part of the monthly program.

Lily’s baptism was a celebration of following Jesus, and at the same time her daughters Leisha (five) and Sienna (three) were dedicated. This is a precious family — part of our church because “belonging” is a value important to members and guests.

— Russell Schulz

Flourishing villages: Educators’ collaboration upskills Cambodian teachers

Teachers are often the best of collaborators and two teachers — one from Avondale Primary and the other from Avondale College — have recently given up their spare time that some people call holidays.

Jeannie Lawrence teaches at the Primary School and

Adrielle Britten teaches at Avondale College while writing her PhD thesis. Busy people indeed!

Jeannie and Adrielle flew to Cambodia and travelled to a tiny village near Kompong Thmor. Typical of many villages in Cambodia, with about 500 people (of whom 180 are children), is the school run by seven keen, but totally under-resourced, teachers.

And that is why Jeannie and Adrielle were there — to upskill the teachers and introduce positive discipline strategies to the classroom.

Most travellers to Asian destinations are allowed 23 kilograms of luggage. Our brave teachers wrangled their way in with 40 kilograms in each suitcase, and thus began six days of intensive teacher training.

Imagine a school where there is one computer, but no electricity. The Principal tries to charge the computer every time she goes to the city. Imagine teaching a class of 35 students with practically no teaching resources. Jeannie and Adrielle were able to use a phonics program developed by Coralie Fraser, but still experienced a feeling of helplessness as they saw how completely overwhelming the task of the teachers was.

Is it worth the effort? Yes, because every bit of assistance goes a long way in Cambodia. There is also the realisation that this village, like so many others, will only flourish if the school does too. Education is the key and we thank two faithful teachers like Jeannie and Adrielle who are prepared to give of their time — and expertise — to help those in need.

— Dr John Hammond

How many Helens at your church?

Maitland Church recently affirmed four women who have contributed to the welcoming culture of their church in many ways.

Over the years, they have filled valued roles in Sabbath school — for both children and adults — and given their talents in teamwork with deacons, elders, Pathfinders and other ministries of the church.

All are named “Helen” — with the surnames of Fenner, Heath, Schulz and Young — and the Maitland Church family recently took time to reflect on what they have given. In Maitland, we are very glad that we have four Helens. As we thanked our “Helen Team” for sharing themselves with us, we were reminded how important each individual member is, and what a great community we can build in cooperation with each other.

— Russell Schulz

From left to right: The “Helen Team” — Helen Schulz, Helen Heath, Helen Young and Helen Fenner — at Maitland Church have contributed to the church’s welcoming culture in many ways for many years.

Friendship evangelism at Taree

What is happening at Taree Church?

We wish to share with you some of the many smaller projects we have been running this year under the banner of “Friendship Evangelism.”

Our latest one — “Adopt-a-block” — involves walking around a chosen block, befriending people one-by-one, knocking on doors, getting to know them, and helping them as we discover their needs. This is incredibly rewarding.

Once each month, our church provides a large combined luncheon. Every other Sabbath, a wonderfully hard-working group of ladies provide a “visitors and family luncheon,” with regular members bringing food also. This luncheon is particularly appreciated by the lonely and searching people in our community.

With minimum advertising and members inviting friends, we saw the “Most Amazing Prophecy” series with Pastor Doug Batchelor received very well on Wednesday evenings at our church (pictured above). This is being followed up with Bible studies and personal visiting.

Once each quarter, Pastor Lyndon Thrift conducts a “Hymns of Praise” program, with many visitors from other churches present to praise God. Tom Mitchell and Avondale College student Jan Weekes feature on piano and organ, and are accompanied by trumpets, violins and flute, which give wonderful musical backing for the many voices.

ADRA’s Knocktober was again one of our projects for this year, letting the locals know about the work of ADRA in Australia and overseas. We plan to be in our shopping mall next year.

After our weekly prayer meeting, our dedicated group of craft ladies meet once a fortnight to create items to sell at the local markets to support our missionary Ian Adams and his wife, Buaket, who work in Thailand with needy children.

Our own violinist Linda Gilbert gave a classical concert in August, and violinist Hayden Wiseman from Western Australia is giving a sacred concert at 4:00pm on Sunday, 14 December. These are wonderful opportunities to invite our new friends.

Our list of outreach opportunities will ensure anyone who comes to live in this area, a wide range of ideas, and you are assured “whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).

— Bernice Pannekoek

OUR CHURCHES

Creek CHIP saved my life”

That was Darren Turton’s testimony at his graduation from the Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) on Sunday, 2 November at Dora Creek.

Suffering from high blood pressure, taking five blood pressure medications, with failing kidney function and facing life on dialysis, obesity plus trouble with his eyesight, Darren was desperate to halt his declining health status. A work colleague encouraged him to try CHIP.

Attending the introductory session, he identified with the story of “Beverly,” a woman who overcame similar problems to his. Darren signed up for the course. Almost immediately he began experiencing benefits. Even his physicians were sceptical of his remarkable turnaround. What they saw in his tests was nothing short of miraculous.

According to CHIP coordinator Jenny Wigglesworth, who monitored his pathology tests, Darren lost 20 kilograms during the nine-week course. Lisa, his wife who also attended the course, is amazed at his transformation. She said, “CHIP has saved my husband’s life.” You can read Darren’s full story on page 10.

Jenny reported that of the 36 participants who completed the Dora Creek CHIP course, 31 lost a total of 91.3 kilograms as well as 138.5 centimetres from around their waists. Blood pressure for the group dropped by eight per cent. Total cholesterol fell by 10.9 per cent. Results for the four diabetics in the group were even more dramatic — their blood sugar levels dropped 18.7 per cent. In fact, Jenny reported that as a result of the lifestyle changes the group had made, their health age was a combined 47 years younger than when they started the course.

Greg Humphris reported the group had walked a staggering 19,402.2 kilometres in nine weeks as recorded by their pedometers. However, the overwhelming testimony from participants on graduation night was the quality of life they were now experiencing. One remarked, “I haven’t had this much energy since I was a teenager!”

Raymond Baird

Chocolateering outreach at Toronto

Toronto Church youth are not sure what to call their sweet ministry. Should it be Chocolate Bombing or maybe Chocolate Drop? Or is it just Chocolateering? Whatever the name, it’s a ministry the youth love and is proving to be very successful.

Armed with bags of chocolates, the youth go

door knocking, or walk down the main street of Toronto giving out chocolates and inviting people to their programs.

Some folk are suspicious at first, and wonder what the catch is. But the youth merely smile and assure them there is no hidden agenda — they just want to spread God’s love and invite them to join their group at their Friday night Youth Connect. “People have big smiles on their faces when they see that it is just an act of friendship,’ says Aleesha, “and there are a number of young kids from the community coming regularly. They came out of curiosity at first, but they like it so much they just keep on coming.”

Toronto youth leaders Alex Green and Jack Ryder, both students at Avondale College, are excited at the impact of the ministry and the growth they can see in the youth group. Sweet.

— Michelle Down

Photo courtesy of Shane Cowan

“Dora

FEATURES

Darren’s CHIP story: From a health crisis to a healthy success

He was struggling with his health to the point that he realised that if something did not change soon, he was going to end up in a health crisis. He had a list of health professionals all working to maintain a functional existence for him, but they could see he was only continuing to get worse. They were preparing him for the idea that in the not too distant future, possibly in the next six months, he would need to begin renal dialysis. This would mean being attached to a machine for possibly five hours a day. This would impact his ability to work, which would put extra stress and worry on his family.

Darren Turton, a middle-aged man with diabetes, obese 50 per cent or more, suffering from high blood pressure for which he took five medications, and established kidney disease that was fast heading towards kidney failure, was talking to a colleague at work about his health issues one day. The colleague suggested he try the CHIP program — in fact, there was one coming up soon at Dora Creek. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, Darren and his wife Lisa decided to book in and do the program together. Darren decided he was going to commit fully to this and give it his best shot — it might just save his life.

The first couple of weeks into the program were really hard. Darren felt terrible. His blood pressure on the first health risk assessment was 220/80, but a week later the ground seemed to swirl around him and he had to have time off work. He visited his doctor and his blood pressure had dropped to 120/55, so he was taken off all five of his blood pressure tablets. During that early period, Darren was seeing his doctor every two days. He was also required to see his specialists and dietician. They started running their own tests. They were sceptical about the program he was doing and kept quizzing him as to what he was being given.

“They’re not giving me anything except information,” was his response. “Are you sure they’re not giving you shakes of some sort? They could have something in the shakes that you’re not aware of.” “No. They don’t give me shakes. They have no special products I have to buy from them. They just provide information about how to make healthy lifestyle choices.”

They were still sceptical. Whatever this program was, it wasn’t going to last and then he would need them to sort him out.

After the first two weeks, Darren started to feel better and his blood tests, blood pressure and weight continued to improve. His doctors started ringing each other. “Have you seen Darren’s latest numbers?” they would say. “Maybe this thing he’s doing is working. Maybe we should find out more about it.”

At the second health risk assessment, five weeks after the first one, Darren had lost more than 14 kilograms. By the end of the two-month program, he had lost 20 kilograms. He remains off all blood pressure medication. His insulin background dose had been 100 units a day. Now it is down to 25 units. His kidney function at the

beginning of the program was 24. At 15, he would need to begin dialysis. Just before the CHIP graduation, Darren saw his specialist who stared at him and his results in disbelief. What had happened to this man? What had turned things around for him so quickly? His kidney function was now 88 and he is no longer facing the threat of dialysis.

Darren has found a new lease on life. He is excited about what the future might now mean for him and his family. He is keen to share his story with others. He is keen to become involved in sharing CHIP with others and offering support as a table host. His wife Lisa is excited and emotional about the transformation that has taken place. She also benefitted from coming to the CHIP program. She said, “We have just been amazed at the timing and events that happened that led us to do CHIP at this time. It’s like someone orchestrated it all for us.”

Darren chimed in, “Yes. I think Someone upstairs is looking out for me.”

They also wonder how many more people are out there, either on dialysis or fast approaching requiring it, who don’t need to be if they could just make some lifestyle changes. Darren and his family are now planning with some of the CHIP volunteers to do the “Loop the Lake” 90 kilometre cycle around Lake Macquarie on 8 March next year.

Darren’s story is just one of several of people who are experiencing significant improvements in their health and wellbeing through participating in the CHIP program, thanks to Dora Creek Church and the Southlakes CHIP group. Darren and his family, along with many others, are now choosing their best life and living more.

— Jenny Wigglesworth

Huggles and Heartsongs to captivate a child’s heart

If you can’t find the definition for ”Huggles” in an Oxford dictionary, or don’t [yet] use the word in your vocabulary, you’re not alone. Huggles and Heartsongs is a brand-new CD of songs and lullabies to captivate a child’s heart. Whether during the day , or at bedtime as they are hugged and cuddled — huggled — to sleep, these songs will become a child’s — and a parent’s — favourites.

Kylie Stacey and Coralie Fraser, the CD producers, and the nine other contributing artists, composers and musicians, have

gifted Asian Aid with their talents and their passion for encouraging children to reach their God-given potential through music.

The funds raised from this CD will give hope to Nepali children in need of love and care through Asian Aid’s Hope in Communities Program. “All children, whether they are in Australia or Nepal, need to know they are loved, in order to grow to their full potential,” says Kylie. “As little ones drift off to sleep each night, my hope is that Huggles and Heartsongs will fill their minds and “love tanks” with messages of love, giving children a brighter future.”

— Sonja Larsen

Huggles and Heartsongs CDs cost $15AUD (including postage) and can be ordered from Asian Aid’s website <www.asianaid.org.au> or by calling (02) 6586 4250. They would make a great Christmas gift.

From left to right: The Turton family — Tommy, Emily, Lisa and Darren — clowning around on the CHIP graduation night with Paul, one of the staff.

FEATURES

Justice in print and in person:

Review: Do Justice: Our Call To Faithful Living

Launch shows how hard it

to ignore a personal story of injustice

The telling of a young asylum seeker’s journey from Afghanistan at the launch of a justice book has poignantly illustrated the rationale for its publication.

Rahmat, an 18-year-old Hazara, fled to Pakistan with the surviving members of his family after the Taliban came to power. He worked to support his siblings, but growing persecution of minority groups saw him engage a people smuggler who organised what would become an almost fatal journey to Australia.

“My hope for my family, and for all people who seek asylum, is to be safe,” he told those attending the launch of Do Justice: Our Call to Faithful Living at Avondale College of Higher Education. “I’ve lost my mother, my father and my close relatives; I don’t want to lose the rest of my family.”

Rahmat is now a Year 12 student at Prescott College in Adelaide. He also works at McDonald’s so he can send money to his older sister, who is also studying. “Our country needs more Rhamats,” said Brad Watson, a senior lecturer in international development studies at Avondale and the organiser of the launch. “We need more brave, intelligent, articulate, hardworking, moderate, loving and decent people in our country.”

It is difficult to ignore a personal encounter with injustice, said Signs Publishing Book Editor Nathan Brown during the dedication. “It’s confronting. Responding with compassion is the first step towards doing justice.”

This Micah 6:8 theme, from which the title of the book is drawn, is “simply the answer to the question of what God requires of us,” said Nathan. We like to answer the question in such complicated ways, he added — he would later criticise some within the church for arguing against prioritising justice — “but doing justice, loving mercy and walking humbly with your God is the essence of what it means to live as a follower of Christ.”

And it begins in the heart and in the mind. “When we talk about doing, we’re not just talking about how much money you’ve raised, how many campaigns you’ve supported or how many mission trips you’ve made,” said co-editor Joanna Darby. “We’re talking about a whole way of being.”

Joanna spoke of being encouraged by the book’s 27 contributors, who include worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church Vice-Presidents Lowell Cooper and Ella Smith Simmons, academics Chris Blake and Kendra Haloviak Valentine, and ministers Ty Gibson and Dwight Nelson. “We can’t say people don’t care because there are many passionate, experienced, working-all-over-the-world-for-justice people who do care. I’m hopeful many more Christians will become less apathetic.”

One of the 27 contributors is Mark Webster, who launched Do Justice in his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Australia—the ADRA network has purchased more than 5000 copies of the book for distribution through its offices around the world. “We all have an inherent sense of justice,” he said. “The problem is our justice-sensing equipment is biased — we’re quick and sensitive to injustices against us, but slow and insensitive to injustices against others.” Addressing the latter, he noted, involves making one of only two choices. “If the choice is, ‘I’m not going to do anything,’ then you’re supporting injustice. The other choice, of course, is, ‘I may not be able to do everything, but I will do something.”

— Brenton Stacey

Do Justice: Our Call to Faithful Living, a companion to Manifest: Our Call to Faithful Creativity, is available from Adventist Book Centres or from <hopeshop.com> for $24.95.

Do justly.

Love mercy.

Walk humbly with your God.

According to Micah 6:8, these are the things that God requires of us. They’re easy to say, but not always easy to do. We’re human. Being humble can be difficult. We may not always feel merciful to those who have wronged us. Justice is often never served — at least not in this lifetime.

But we can try.

Do Justice: Our Call To Faithful Living is a good reminder of this. In 28 chapters, a collection of Adventist leaders, pastors, academics, writers and artists explore what it means to do justice — and I mean really do it. Not just think about it or feel a bit of righteous indignation about injustices we see around us. Really doing justice, daily.

As Ty Gibson writes in his chapter, “‘To act justly’ means we are to discern what is wrong with the world and make it right. Where injustice is afflicting our fellow human beings, we are to actively engage ourselves in the task of bringing rectification and restoration.”

It may seem like an overwhelming task to become engaged in social justice issues, but we don’t have to single-handedly fix the world. We can work to do justice in our families, our friendships, our workplaces, our communities. Small acts of justice can grow to become so much more important. We can sign petitions, donate money, go on service projects and treat others — regardless of gender, race or anything else — as equals.

Do Justice explores these ideas in each chapter, looking at things such as “Good News to the Poor: Justice and Equality” by Becky De Oliviera, “Rediscovering ‘Adventist’ Health: Justice and Health” by Nathan Hawkins, and “When Doing Good is not Good Enough: Justice and Advocacy” by Harwood Lockton.

God is intimately concerned with the welfare and wellbeing of all of His creation, and there are numerous Bible verses that deal with His concern for the vulnerable members of society. In walking humbly with Him, we will come to love mercy even more because of how much mercy He shows us. Doing justly will flow from that.

— Adele Nash

is

Co-editors of Do Justice: Our Call To Faithful Living Joanna Darby and Nathan Brown with ADRA Australia CEO Mark Webster at the launch of Do Justice at the Ladies Chapel at Avondale College of Higher Education.

POSITIONS VACANT

Position Vacant | North New South Wales Conference Team Support Administrator | Wallsend

The North New South Wales Conference is seeking to appoint a Team Support Administrator. This position is full time and will provide administrative support to the various departments in the organisation. The position will report directly to the Department Director, and will require a high level of administrative, keyboard and data entry skills and experience.

Essential criteria include: previous experience in an administrative role, high level keyboard and data entry skills, experience in organising and managing events, knowledge of project management, proven ability in managing high-volume workloads, and remaining calm and efficient under pressure. Desirable criteria include: experience with PowerPoint and InDesign, the ability to attend relevant events and camps.

To discuss the role or request a Performance Profile, please contact Gillian Knight on (02) 4951 8088 or email gillianknight@adventist.org.au. Applications are to be submitted in writing via email to gillianknight@adventist.org.au, addressing the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the Performance Profile. Applications close 23 January, 2015.

For more vacant job positions, visit www.adventistemployment.org.au.

Job Opportunities | Adventist Senior Living

Do you have a Cert III or Cert IV in aged care nursing? Are you an endorsed enrolled nurse (EEN)? Adventist Senior Living has opportunities for you. Direct enquiries to the Recruitment Manager, Avondale Adventist Aged Care Facility, PO Box 105, Cooranbong NSW 2265. Alternatively, call (02) 4977 0148 or email recruitment@aacnnsw.com.au.

The North New South Wales Conference’s Grey Nomads Camp for 2015 will be held at the Adventist Convention Centre, Stuarts Point, NSW from 8 to 16 May, 2015.

The camp is open to Grey Nomads from across Australia and is an excellent opportunity for retirees to meet and fellowship together. Dr David Jamieson, minister from Aldergrove Church in Vancouver, will be the guest speaker.

Applications will be available in December. For further details, phone (02) 4944 3220 or email <greynomads@adventist.org.au>.