New South Wales Conference News
Pastor Cristian Copaceanu NNSW Conference president
Too Good to Keep
I still remember my first computer—a Packard Bell 486—I was only 10 at the time and persuaded my father that this was essential for my education. He obliged and on the meagre wage of a blue-collar refugee, went all out and bought me the best money could buy. And so began my love-hate relationship with PC’s.
I spent half my time exploring digital encyclopedias, learning to touch type with Mavis Beacon and composing my essays on Word Perfect. The other half of my childhood was spent wasting away watching the blue screen of death, endlessly formatting, defragmenting, running antivirus scans and everything else required to resuscitate the beige beast back to work (and the occasional game of Minesweeper).
In high school, my IT teacher used and spruiked Macs instead of PC’s. My friends and I mercilessly mocked him for his antiquated taste in computers. But then in my first year of Uni, someone offered me a brand-new Mac computer at a too-good-to-be-true price. And I became a convert –once you go Mac, you don’t go back (well, I didn’t anyway).
Not only did I go “Mac”, but ever since I have been telling anyone who would listen, and even some who don’t, that they should make the switch. Why? Because I’ve found something that really works well for me and I want my family, friends and even strangers to experience the same joy I’ve had. The joy of not being hypnotised by the blue screen of death or getting RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) from an overuse of the Ctrl Alt Delete combination. The joy of Mac was too good to keep to myself.
When the disciples finally understood the Gospel, the good news about Jesus, it was too good to keep to themselves. They were not coerced, bribed, threatened or guilt-tripped into sharing the incredibly fantastic, exciting, better-than-good news with anyone and everyone that would listen.
“We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20
What about us? Do we grasp the beauty, value, freedom, joy that comes from what Jesus has, is and will be doing for us? If we have, why keep it to ourselves? If we haven’t, it’s no shame, but why not seek and search until we discover the same out-of-this-world news the disciples uncovered that made them unable to stop telling others about Jesus?
Father and sons baptised
Roberto Velasquez Newcastle Spanish Church
Merle Cozens
Hillview Church
Twelve-year-old Rachel Rodriguez was baptised at Avondale Memorial church on April 12, surrounded by family, friends and Hillview church members.
Rachel had been studying the Bible for two years with Pastor Leticia Moreno, a family friend. “Her commitment was evident from a young age, and she was eager to be baptised as soon as possible after turning 12,” said Hillview church member Merle Cozens.
The service included contributions from Rachel’s family, including music and prayer, and a sermon by Pastor Moreno. Two of Rachel’s friends responded to an appeal during the service, expressing interest in baptism.
Hillview pastor Les Ncube acknowledged the influence of Rachel’s family, Bible studies, and her involvement in the Hillview Pathfinder Club in supporting her spiritual growth.
Nelson Bay Church
José Mauricio Guerra and his two sons, Diego and Nicolas, were baptised on March 15 at Boolaroo Adventist Church—years after first connecting with the Adventist community through Newcastle Spanish Church and Macquarie College.
The family received Bible studies from Pastor Roberto Velasquez following an evangelistic campaign held by Pastor Danny Milenkov in November 2024. While José’s wife Cinthya had been baptised earlier, José initially chose not to, having previously been baptised in the Catholic Church.
The boys’ interest grew through their time at Macquarie College, where they learned more about the Bible. Their request for baptism ultimately encouraged José to make the decision as well.
The baptisms took place at the same church where Cinthya was baptised years earlier.
Pastor Velasquez said the family’s story highlights the importance of providing children with an education based on Christian principles. “Adventist education offers more than academic quality—it instils spiritual values that prepare children for eternity,” he said. “I encourage parents to consider this when choosing a school.”
Young Pathfinder baptised Community dinner opens doors for outreach
Nelson Bay church held a community dinner on April 3, attended by 20 local residents who had responded to a recent four-week community needs survey. The social evening was catered by Food Farmacy, a café operated by the Family Connections church plant. “All attendees were surveyed at the end, and 100 per cent enjoyed the event and the food,” said church member David Lister. Most expressed interest in joining the Live More Happy course after Easter, while others signed up for Bible studies and prophecy seminars. In total, more than 100 survey respondents have requested follow-up visits.
David Lister
Church-run Food Hub wins top community award
Teresa Robinson
Tenterfield
Church
The Tenterfield Food Hub, operated by the Tenterfield church, was awarded Outstanding Community Organisation at the Tenterfield Business NSW Awards on May 10. The recognition celebrates the Hub’s commitment to supporting local families with practical, hands-on assistance.
Founded in 2017, the Hub has grown into a trusted part of the Tenterfield community. “It’s amazing to see how much it’s grown,” said Maggie, a longtime volunteer. “We started small, and now we’re supporting people from all walks of life.”
The initiative provides low-cost groceries, essential household items, and fresh fruit and vegetables to anyone needing a little extra help.
The work of the Hub is only possible thanks to the support of organisations such as Foodbank, SecondBite, local businesses and individuals in the community. “Their ongoing partnership keeps our shelves stocked and helps ensure families in the region can access what they need, when they need it,” said David Jones, a leader at the Hub, with his wife Cushla.
As the need has grown, the Hub has outgrown the church hall where it currently operates. “We’ve simply outgrown the space,” said Cushla Jones. “We’re prayerfully exploring options to secure land and a dedicated building that can better serve the community.” A purpose-built space would provide more storage, easier access and room to expand services. However, Mrs Jones noted that limited funding remains a major challenge holding this vision back.
The Hub also plays a critical role during times of crisis, offering emergency support, whether through home deliveries or by coordinating with other community organisations. “Our goal is simple,” Mrs Jones added. “To make sure help is always close at hand.”
“This award has been such a boost of encouragement,” said Pastor Kevin Robinson. “Cushla and David are still smiling—and rightly so. It’s a reflection of their leadership and the dedication of the entire volunteer team.” Volunteers like Sue and Yvonne, who faithfully serve behind the scenes, said the recognition reminded them that their efforts matter.
For more information or to become involved, visit the Food Hub’s Facebook page or call Pastor Robinson on 0410 737 999.
Students explore God’s love during Week of Spiritual Emphasis
By Phil Bishop, Toronto Adventist School Chaplain
Toronto Adventist School held its Week of Spiritual Emphasis (WOSE) in Week 4 of Term 2, with the theme “God’s love for me is out of this world.”
Guest speaker Pastor Ashley Smith, youth director for the North New South Wales Conference, encouraged students to reflect on how Jesus demonstrates His love and care in everyday life.
“It was heartening to see our students so enthusiastic about growing in their faith and understanding more about God’s incredible love,” said the school
chaplain, Pastor Phil Bishop. The week included interactive storytelling, music and spiritual activities designed to help students connect more deeply with the theme.
Lunchtime games and creative elements such as mini-bike riding, balloon-modelling and long-thong walking added fun to the program.
One of the highlights was a water rocket craft and launch held on Friday afternoon, which concluded the week in a “fun and thrilling way”, said Pastor Bishop.
According to him, WOSE continues to be a cherished tradition on our campus, “and this year was truly out of this world,” he added.
Abundant life
by Pr Tema Pologa Fetaoai, Blue Hills College Chaplain
Blue Hills College recently held its Week of Spiritual Emphasis, themed “Abundance,” inspired by John 10:10.
Primary students were encouraged by messages from guest speaker Katie Morgan, while SJ Foaga shared biblical reflections with Secondary students. They highlighted stories from Scripture that explored the meaning of abundant life and God’s generous love.
The week concluded with a celebration, including a barbecue that brought students and staff together for food, fellowship and reflection on the week’s message.
“WOSE was a meaningful time of spiritual renewal for our school community,” said chaplain Pastor Tema Pologa Fetaoai.
Bringing the Bible to life Music helps revive Toronto Adventist school
By Bronwyn Mison, Port Macquarie Adventist School Chaplain
An immersive walk-through experience depicting the life of Jesus was held over three nights on Easter by Port Macquarie Adventist Church and School.
Known as History Points, the outreach event invited guests to journey through a recreated village and witness key moments from Jesus’ ministry. Each evening featured four guided sessions, covering scenes from Jesus’ birth, ministry, crucifixion, resurrection and promised return.
More than 80 actors—including students, staff and church members— took part in the production. The event concluded each night with a light supper and time for reflection.
Visitors responded enthusiastically. One guest wrote, “That masterpiece has changed my life—110/100!” Another described it as “very moving” and “especially meaningful for our children.”
According to organisers, History Points was an opportunity to share Jesus’ love in a tangible way and connect meaningfully with the broader community.
By Mary Fedorow, Toronto Adventist Primary School
A string program introduced less than two years ago is helping revitalise Toronto Adventist Primary School (NSW), which was on the verge of closure in 2022 due to low enrolments.
Led by principal Celia Moncrieff and a dedicated music teacher, the program has become central to the school’s growth. Every student is now learning a stringed instrument, with the school growing to 45 students and 17 pre-kindergarten children.
On May 24, students showcased their progress with a performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria at Hillview Adventist Church in Morisset. For many, it was a remarkable achievement—especially given the short time the children have been playing.
Audience members were particularly moved by the youngest students playing quarter-size violins. “They looked like toy violins,” said one church member, “but the sound they produced was amazing.”
Adventist Church responds to New South Wales’s worst flooding in decades
Juliana Muniz and Henrique Felix Adventist Record/Editor, NorthPoint
The Seventh-day Adventist Church has stepped up to support flood-affected communities across the mid-north coast of New South Wales, following the region’s worst flooding since 1984. After intense rainfall from May 21 to 25, roads were cut off, businesses lost stock and many farmers now face a long road to recovery.
Adventist properties were also affected by the floods. The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) office in Cooranbong temporarily closed after floodwaters reached the parking lot and inundated the resource room. Several schools—including Avondale School, Toronto Adventist School and Manning Adventist Bush School—were forced to close.
Adventist Community Services (ACS) and ADRA Australia—which quickly activated its national emergency plan—joined forces with volunteers to provide emergency relief. Financial assistance, clean-up crews, food hampers, hot meals and psychological first aid were offered to impacted residents.
“People have been especially thankful for the emotional support—it’s helping them process their strong emotions in these times of need,” said Eric Leichner, emergency management director for ADRA Australia. He visited Taree and nearby towns to assist with coordinating the response.
ADRA also helped deliver supplies to isolated areas and supported aged care units. One of the key local initiatives was the SouperVan in Wauchope, where church members served soup and baked goods to flood-affected locals, some of whom had been cut off from town. Others assisted with clean-up operations in Taree or received ADRA training to help distribute cash grants. “Our whole church came together in different ways to help,” said a Wauchope church representative.
One SouperVan regular, who received support through a grant, later asked the women’s ministry team for prayer for her seriously ill grandmother. “She came home from hospital after we prayed, and now I’m really starting to trust God,” the woman later shared with church members. The church is continuing its outreach with a dessert charity auction to raise funds for those still recovering.
As floodwaters receded, a group of 30 ACS volunteers from across the South New South Wales Conference (SNSW) travelled north on May 26 to support clean-up operations in some of the worst-hit towns, including Kempsey and Taree. Volunteers travelled in a six-vehicle convoy, bringing donated supplies including shovels, pressure washers, nappies, food and water.
“If we can’t show up in the hard times, we don’t have the right to be there in the good times,” said Kyle Morrison, ACS director for SNSW and interim director for NNSW.
Adventist local farmer and business owner Greg Manson expressed deep appreciation for the Church’s support. “I’d normally say I’m emotionally strong, but this time I was at my end. The support from ACS has been invaluable.” he said.
To support the response, visit <adra.org.au/project/disaster-response/> or <egiving.org.au>
Notice of Australian Union Conference Constituency Meeting
Notice is hereby given that the regular constituency meeting of the Australian Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church will be convened from August 31 to September 4, 2025, at the Parkroyal Monash Melbourne, 872 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria. The business of this constituency meeting will be in accordance with the constitution. Such business will include the election of leadership, reports, proposed changes to the constitution and
will also address a discussion on the ordination of pastors within the Australian Union Conference. The constituency meeting will commence at 7pm on Sunday, August 31. Registration will take place from 3pm on August 31 and is necessary prior to the commencement time.
Big Camp brings worship, connection and service to Stuarts Point
Juliana Muniz Adventist Record
More than 3,000 people gathered at Stuarts Point Convention Centre in April for the 2025 North New South Wales (NNSW) Big Camp, creating a vibrant week of worship, learning, connection and service.
Families arrived from across the Conference, with some travelling just a few hours and others driving long distances. For many campers, Big Camp is an annual tradition—a time to reconnect with friends, reflect spiritually and enjoy nature.
“I think it’s important to come and see everyone and catch up with all the church people that you don’t get to see much out there,” said Tess Foster. Along with her husband Luki and their baby, she travelled nine hours
from Collie, in central NSW, to attend Big Camp. “It’s important to come to go to the programs. The spiritual high that you leave with at the end is well worth it.”
Programs officially began on Friday evening, with worship across all age tents—from the Big Tent to Connection, Young Adults, High School, Juniors and more. Weekend highlights included the opening Sabbath and a baptismal ceremony at Grassy Head Beach, where eight individuals publicly committed their lives to Jesus. Six of those baptised were supported by the work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM).
For many, Big Camp has been a place of spiritual growth over the years.
“Stuarts Point for me holds a lot of great memories for Big Camps and Summer Camps,” said Anneleese Iorgulescu, who was baptised at this year’s camp. “I really enjoy hearing the good sermons every day and spending time with God and friends.”
Campers enjoyed a lively Sunday with the annual Fun Run, hosted by Avondale University. A record 415 participants took part in the 2- and 3-kilometre races, drawing in campers of all ages. The fun continued with Super Sunday, where 48 stalls showcased ministries, fundraising initiatives and community projects.
Throughout the week, campers had the opportunity to attend a range of workshops, with topics including biblical studies, spiritual growth, prophecy, health and Indigenous experiences. Mornings were filled with teaching and conversation, including natural remedies and other practical health workshops. Afternoons featured hands-on activities such as art therapy, Aboriginal painting and basket weaving in the ATSIM tent, and sustainable gardening. The Syntropic Garden workshop, located behind the Connection Tent, drew campers interested in learning how to grow healthy produce without chemical fertilisers.
Among the many initiatives designed to foster connection, the Kinsmen barbecue brought together more than 100 men to share a meal and meaningful conversation. Organised by Family Ministries, Kinsmen aims to build a network of spiritual support that encourages men to grow in faith, leadership and community engagement.
Big Camp also offered opportunities for campers to serve and connect with the local community. Through StormCo, teams of young people visited residents in Stuarts Point, offered help around the town and cleaned the local war memorial in preparation for Anzac Day.
“Here at Big Camp, we don’t just come into this town and live in our own little campground, in our own little shell. We actually get out and give something back to the community,” said 27-year StormCo leader Jonathan Christian.
That spirit of service and generosity extended beyond local outreach. One evening, 151 women gathered for a special Diner en Blanc hosted by the Women’s Ministries team, raising more than $5,000 to support young children in Cambodia’s red-light district.
“When God’s girls gather, the community and the most vulnerable should benefit,” said Women’s Ministries director Beryl Landers. “While we eat and laugh and enjoy a lovely event, we get mobilised and we call our resources so we can make a difference.”
As the week came to a close, many reflected on the impact of the event—both personally and spiritually.
“It’s exactly what I needed,” said one camper. “Sitting in the sunlight, not having to work, spending time with friends and just being able to relax and conversate with them and grow closer to God.”
Big Camp attendees brave rain for Anzac Day service
Juliana Muniz Adventist Record
Dozens of attendees at the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Big Camp, in Stuarts Point, gathered before sunrise on April 25 to commemorate Anzac Day with a dawn service, standing together through bursts of rain to honour those who served.
Held at 5:30am, the annual tradition featured hymns, ceremonial readings, music and reflection.
Participating in the service were Australian Defence Force personnel, including Army Lieutenant Jesse Stanfield, Air Force Wing Commander Rustin Quinn and Army Private John Koronui. Wayne Manson, president of the Stuarts Point sub-branch of the RSL and church members representing New Zealand and Papua New Guinea also took part.
“It means a lot to me to stand here in the rain at 5:30 in the morning, when everyone could be asleep and actually take that time to reflect with us on this special day,” said Lieutenant Stanfield. “It’s great to see our church turn out and be part of the commemoration.”
The service included an Indigenous contribution, wreath laying, The Ode of Remembrance, The Last Post and Reveille, with trumpet performed by NNSW prayer coordinator Charissa Torossian. The national anthem was led by The Heights Learning Community principal John Venegas, and several leaders took part in sharing a commemorative address.
NNSW evangelism director Pastor Lyle Southwell, who hosted the event, reflected on the importance of holding the service at Big Camp. “We wouldn’t have the freedom to worship Jesus Christ in the way that we do today if it weren’t for what others have done on our behalf,” he said. “That’s why we feel it’s important to come together and remember.”
Pastor Southwell also praised attendees for their commitment to the occasion. “It did dump with rain halfway through, and I thought everyone’s going to run for cover, but everyone just broke out their umbrellas. That was really good Anzac spirit.”
Better Books and Foods
NNSW Conference Administration
Better Books and Foods (BBF) has served our community faithfully for many years, but like many small retailers, we’ve faced significant challenges in recent times. Shifting customer preferences, the rapid move to online shopping, and broader economic pressures have tested our resilience and forced us to make tough decisions to keep serving you with the mission-focused books and healthy foods you expect and love.
Over the last five years, despite steady sales, BBF has experienced increasing financial losses (see chart), making it unsustainable to continue business as usual. This trend made it clear that change was not optional; it was essential to keep the doors open.
As part of our turnaround efforts, we have had to restructure staffing, streamline our product range to better match what customers are buying, and invest further in the online store so that more of our community can access our products conveniently.
We know that these changes have not always been smooth at our Cooranbong Store or Big Camp. They have created disruptions and, at times, disappointment for our valued customers, especially when certain items have not been available or store operations have felt different from what you’re used to.
We want you to know that we are listening. Your feedback has been vital in helping us refine our offering and meet your needs.
As an example, this year at Big Camp we carefully curated our book and food selections to align more closely with camp themes and customer interests, and we received encouraging feedback about the improved relevance of stock. Next year, we’re planning to bring even more variety, including bulk options, more vegan and vegetarian staples, and exciting new frozen desserts and beverages—all at prices that are fair and sustainable.
Beyond Big Camp, the Cooranbong store is also evolving. We’re expanding our health food range to include gut-friendly snacks, vegan cheeses, dairy alternatives, and other hard-to-find items, aiming to become the most affordable, community-focused health food shop on the coast.
Under the leadership of an experienced Business Director—who successfully guided BBF to sustainability a decade ago—we are stabilising, repositioning, and now moving towards long-term growth planning.
Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support during this time of change. We remain committed to providing better books and better food—resources that nourish the body, mind, and spirit. We look forward to building an even better BBF together with you.
Revenue vs Profit/(Loss) 5-Year Comparison
Big Camp 25 Survey Insights
Henrique Felix NNSW Communications Coordinator
The Big Camp survey captured what mattered most to campers this year. Between April 24 and May 5, more than 400 attendees shared their perceptions and reflections about the event.
Worship programs again topped the favourites list, closely followed by reconnecting with friends, family time, the camp's spiritual atmosphere and dynamic music and performances.
Survey results showed growing enthusiasm for future camps, with 91 per cent of respondents indicating they are likely to return next year—up from 85 per cent in 2024. Nearly three in four said they are very likely to attend.
When we organise Big Camp, we are looking to offer a safe, Christ-centered space where different generations can worship, learn and connect. This year's feedback affirms that purpose and brings fresh ideas to help shape next year's experience.
Thank you for investing a few minutes to assist us in reaching that goal. Together, we're making Big Camp a glimpse of Heaven.
For more statistics and insights from the Big Camp 25 Survey, visit <advnt.au/bcs25results>
Pastor Christopher Petersen ordained to Ministry
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
Family, friends and church members gathered at Singleton Seventh-day Adventist Church on April 12 to witness the ordination of Pastor Christopher Petersen to ministry.
The Sabbath afternoon service was led by North New South Wales Conference president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu, general secretary Pastor Abel Iorgulescu, ministerial secretary Pastor Travis Manners, associate ministerial secretary Pastor Danuta Stockwell and Australian Union Conference general secretary Pastor Jeffrey Masengi. Pastor Danny Milenkov, from the Boolaroo and Raymond Terrace churches, delivered the ordination sermon.
The program featured special music by Pastor Petersen, his wife Cyravil and his brothers, as well as personal testimonies from family and church members. One moment included a reading by Pastor Petersen’s parents from a diary in which they had recorded his son’s spiritual journey and their desire to have him working in ministry.
Pastor Petersen preached his first sermon at the age of twelve and began formal ministry in 2017 while studying at Avondale University, where he completed a Bachelor of Ministry and Theology in 2020. He has served as a young adult pastor at Hillview, co-hosted a breakfast program on Faith FM and pastored churches in Coonabarabran and Coonamble. Since late 2023, he has been district pastor for the Singleton and Muswellbrook churches.
Beyond his local ministry, Pastor Petersen has co-founded the Belong youth group in Coffs Harbour, produced an evangelistic documentary for Warrumbungle Shire and supported overseas mission, including a preaching trip to Kenya.
Pastor Petersen is married to Cyravil. They met during his placement at Ourimbah church.
Coffs Region churches host community health programs
New learning hub officially opened
Central Coast Adventist School
Coffs Harbour and Coffs Coast churches recently hosted five Creation Life health seminars in various towns across the region, including a pilot program held earlier this year at Coffs Harbour Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Led by four teams of lay people, the programs featured a total of 10 presenters and eight cooking demonstrators. The three-week series ran during May and June in Coramba, Ulong, Bellingen and Woolgoolga, and included two presentations on health topics and two cooking demonstrations each night. Average attendance ranged from 10 to 18 people, including several community guests at each location.
“It’s been exciting to see our church teams serving the community and meeting new people,” said Pastor Ben Rea. “The presenters and volunteers have done a fantastic job—many serving in this capacity for the first time. While the programs have been small in size, significant connections have been made in each location. In Woolgoolga and Ulong, local residents have even requested further health and lifestyle programs in the future.”
The initiative was supported by NNSW Health Ministries through Big Camp Appeal funding, helping churches become local Wellness Hubs.
Staff, students and community members gathered at Central Coast Adventist School (NSW) on Wednesday, June 12, to officially open and dedicate the school’s new learning hub.
Located at the front of the Erina campus, the three-storey building has been in use since the beginning of the school year and now serves as the central hub for administration, finance, the school library, English classrooms and senior study spaces. A skybridge connects the facility to the secondary campus.
The ceremony opened with a welcome and words of reflection from principal Tony Kent, followed by speeches from school leaders, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and Adventist Schools North NSW director of education Paul Fua.
The opening also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of architects, builders and the Adventist Education team, who partnered together in the realisation of the long-awaited project—first envisioned more than a decade ago.
“This space represents our commitment to growth, community and Christian education,” said Mr Kent. “We are thankful to all who helped bring this vision to life.”
School captains Charles Britt and Makenzie Whiteman shared their reflections on how the new space has positively impacted students, with particular appreciation for the senior study zones and the shared access to the Learning Resource Centre with primary students.
Following the speeches, North NSW Conference president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu led the dedicatory prayer, committing the building to God’s service and asking His blessing over all who learn and lead within its walls.
The celebration concluded with a school-led tour and cake-cutting ceremony as guests joined in fellowship and gratitude for God’s provision.
Erin Keegan and NorthPoint Staff NNSW Health Director
Daniela Duarte
Pastor Steve Teale ordained at Ocean Shores Church
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
Pastor Steve Teale was ordained to ministry on May 3 at Ocean Shores Seventh-day Adventist Church, the same place where he was baptised in 2010.
The Sabbath service was led by North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu, who also presented the ordination charge. He was joined by ministerial secretary Pastor Travis Manners, who hosted the program; Pastor Cranville Tooley, who first welcomed Pastor Teale when he began attending Ocean Shores church; and Pastor Tim Kingston, who offered the ordination prayer.
The program included congregational and special music, a worship medley and a slideshow highlighting Pastor Teale’s fifteen-year journey since his baptism and call to ministry. The service concluded with Amazing Grace, a hymn chosen by Pastor Teale for its significance from his baptism.
Pastor Teale began ministry as a Bible worker and lay pastor at The Vine church plant in Tweed Heads, following his baptism fifteen years ago. He later pastored churches in Bray Park and Pottsville and now serves in the Kempsey district.
Before entering ministry, he worked as a truck driver and pub bouncer. He was introduced to the Adventist message through 3ABN and Kenneth Cox sermons. While serving as a pastor, he completed a Bachelor of Theology at Avondale University, overcoming personal and academic challenges along the way.
Reflecting on the occasion, Pastor Teale said, “This ordination is not the finish line; it is the starting point of a deeper surrender, greater service, and a lifelong faithfulness … I stand not in my own strength, but in the power of the One who has called me.”
Pastor Teale is married to Samantha and they have eight children.
ARISE students graduate and enter local mission
Lynden Parmenter
ARISE Australia Coordinator
The 12th ARISE Australia discipleship training program concluded with a graduation ceremony on May 3 at Kingscliff Seventh-day Adventist Church. This year’s intake included 31 students from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Germany, Switzerland, Norway and Austria.
Over 13 weeks, the class studied the Bible, learned how to give Bible studies and explored how to share their faith in practical ways. They also engaged in local outreach, including an evangelistic series, plant-based cooking workshops, and Bible studies with primary and high school students at a local Adventist school. When Cyclone Jasper caused damage in the region, students helped with cleanup efforts.
“Every year, it’s a privilege to journey with young people from around the world as they grow spiritually and serve the community,” said program coordinator Pastor Lynden Parmenter. “This class quickly became a tight-knit group and showed a real passion for ministry.”
Of the 31 graduates, 24 have chosen to continue as part of the ARISE For Life program, where they will serve in hands-on ministry placements alongside pastors across six locations on the NSW North Coast: Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Evans Head–Lismore, Byron Bay, Alstonville and Kingscliff.
"We look forward to seeing what God is going to do through their lives now, and in the future," said Pastor Parmenter.
To learn more about ARISE Australia, visit <ightbearers.org/arise/australia>.
Consulting Editor Cristian Copaceanu
Editor Henrique Felix
Editorial Support Juliana Muniz
Cover Jonathan Christian
nnsw.conf@adventist.org.au
nnsw.adventist.org.au
