Pastor Cristian Copaceanu NNSW Conference president
Remember…
Each and every day, we are bombarded, assailed, overwhelmed by distractions—whether they distract us from our work, our relationships, our mission, or more basic things like mowing the lawn, doing the cleaning, or making dinner.
Some distractions are of little to no consequence, unless you mind going hungry for a few more minutes or have an aversion to wearing the same socks two days in a row. Some distractions, however, can be life-changing—for us and others—impacting marriages, careers and even life itself (don’t use a mobile phone while driving).
God, as our Creator and Redeemer, knowing us all too well, has made provision to save us from distractions that could cause us harm. Each week, He has given us permission to rest, reflect, remember, recharge, reconnect and refocus.
The Sabbath provides a weekly opportunity to put aside the worries, cares and distractions of this world and remember that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by a loving Creator. To remember that if our Creator took the time to make us, redeem us, and prepare a place for us, then we can trust that He will never leave nor forsake us.
As we finish one year and commence another, why not use the Sabbath for its intended purpose? As a gift made for mankind to bring healing and restoration? A gift of time to draw us closer to God and each other? And if the Sabbath does not provide that experience for you, why not? Who is robbing you of this gift? Maybe it’s time to put a stop to being robbed.
Make the most of this next Sabbath. Rest, physically and emotionally. Reconnect with family and friends that you have been too busy to engage with during the week. Reflect on God—His goodness, grace, mercy and loving arms. Recommit the week ahead to live a life of mission, service and surrender. Use this Sabbath, and the next, and the next, to remember that the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus has come to give us life, and that more abundantly.
Colourful fundraiser
Emily Bullus/Northpoint staff
Port Macquarie Adventist School
Port Macquarie Adventist School held its largest fundraiser of the year, a Colour Run, on October 23. The school set an initial fundraising goal of $3,500 but surpassed expectations, raising $4,241. The funds will go towards purchasing new sporting equipment and installing water filters for the school’s bubblers. “The day was a wonderful celebration of our school spirit,” said secondary teacher Emily Bullus. “It was fantastic to see the whole community come together, with students and staff enjoying the fun atmosphere while contributing to a great cause.” The event featured colourful activities and concluded with a special reward for the top fundraisers, who had the opportunity to slime two of their favourite teachers.
Pink Ribbon Glow for Him
Lyn Scarr
Ocean Shores Church
Ocean Shores church recently gathered at a farm in Burringbar for an outdoor Sabbath celebration. Activities included a treasure hunt, a picnic and a walk along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail to the glow worm tunnel. The event provided an opportunity for fellowship and fun in nature despite the brief rain.
Teresa Robinson
Central Coast Community Church
Central Coast Community Church hosted a Pink Ribbon Morning Tea on October 25 as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Thirty-five attendees gathered to enjoy hot drinks, a variety of food and meaningful conversations. The event raised $500 for Breast Cancer Australia.
Hillview’s happy camping weekend
David Stafford
Hillview Church
Hillview Church members gathered at Camp Elim from November 22–24 for their annual church camp, a weekend filled with spiritual programs, social activities and recreation.
The event featured vespers, a sunrise prayer meeting, Sabbath worship, relationship workshops, and an all-ages games night. “The games night was chaotic and fun, with everyone enjoying themselves,” said attendee David Stafford.
Attendees also celebrated Year 12 graduates, offering prayers for their future. Recreational activities on Sunday included paddleboarding, canoeing, and a high tower swing.
Mr Stafford highlighted the inclusive atmosphere of the weekend, noting, “Camping provides an opportunity for people to connect on equal footing, regardless of background or status.”
Homeschool camp
Leslie Castro NNSW Homeschool Committee
Adventist families from across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and other areas gathered for the annual homeschool camp from September 26 to 29 at Yarra Holiday Park (Stuarts Point Convention Centre). Despite wet weather, the event drew approximately 140 parents and children for a weekend of activities, worship and connection.
The camp’s theme, “Stand Firm,” was explored in sermons by NNSW president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu, who encouraged families to remain steadfast in their faith. Sabbath activities included an interactive session teaching children about significant figures in Reformation history, such as Martin Luther and William Tyndale, reinforcing the importance of standing firm in faith. Participants engaged in a variety of activities, including a petting zoo, climbing wall, obstacle courses and a talent night featuring Bible memorisation, music, skits and jokes. Shared meals and worship sessions helped foster a strong sense of community among attendees.
The event was organised by North New South Wales Conference Children’s and Family Ministries Director Colleen Savage, with support from Bernice Brown and several homeschool mothers.
Event combines agriculture and spiritual growth
Erin Keegan/Northpoint staff
NNSW Adventist Health Director
More than 40 people from across the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) gathered in Upper Rollands Plains for a weekend that combined agriculture, faith, and community engagement. Held from October 25 to 27, the Cultivate Mini-Conference, organised by the NNSW health department, aimed to equip participants with sustainable farming skills and spiritual insights.
Hosted at an organic market farm, the event featured practical workshops on topics such as soil preparation, seedling transplantation, pest management, and greenhouse production. According to NNSW health
director Erin Keegan, these sessions were designed to promote biblical stewardship and sustainable farming methods. “Spiritual growth was also a focal point, with discussions inspired by scripture and Ellen White’s writings, including Country Living and Counsels on Agriculture,” explained Mrs Keegan.
The Cultivate Mini Conference is part of a broader initiative supported by the 2023 Big Camp Appeal, which provided funds for the NNSW health ministries department to help local churches establish community gardens through the Sustainable Living grant. Beneficiary churches include Taree, Wauchope, The Bay, Mullumbimby, Bray Park, The Heights Learning Community (Maitland) and Yarra Holiday Park.
More practical gardening and agriculture events are being planned for 2025, including the God’s Garden workshop at Big Camp 2025.
Young boy chooses baptism on his 10th birthday
Hillview church (Morisset, NSW) member Caleb Hawken celebrated his 10th birthday by being baptised at Lake Macquarie on October 23. Caleb chose this special date, telling his father, “I want to get baptised by you on my 10th birthday so I can always remember the day of my baptism.”
According to Mr Hawken, his son expressed this desire unexpectedly, “Around six months ago, Caleb and I were on the boat—heading between Summerland Point and Wyee. We had never spoken of it in any form and out of the blue, Caleb made that comment.”
The ceremony, attended by 75 people, included a prayer from Pastor Phil Bishop, Caleb’s chaplain at Toronto Adventist School, and the singing of his favourite song, 10,000 Reasons. Hillview church pastor Les Ncube performed the baptism, with Mr Hawken’s assistance.
The service ended with a prayer from Hillview associate pastor Danuta Stockwell and a celebration with Caleb’s family, friends and church members.
Dorrigo regional gathers more than 100
Shanna Duke Associate Editor, NorthPoint
More than 100 people gathered at Dorrigo church hall on November 16 for a regional day of worship and fellowship. Attendees came from churches across the area, including Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Kempsey, and Guyra.
The day’s program included a combined adult Sabbath school lesson led by Pastor Bob Manners, a youth discussion group facilitated by Pastor Tim Turner and a children’s program led by Ellie Turner. Macksville Church led praise and worship, and Faith FM host Lawson Walters presented the divine service on the theme “What are you called to?” encouraging attendees to focus on God’s mission in their lives.
After a shared potluck lunch, participants visited Dorrigo National Park for a group walk and photo scavenger hunt, offering time for connection and reflection in the scenic surroundings. The event concluded with a closing Sabbath service and an evening game of laser tag.
Merle Cozens Hillview Church
Women inspired to renew faith and make a difference
Juliana Muniz/Beryl Landers Adventist Record
Adventist women from across the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) gathered at Avondale University on November 23 for the RESET Women’s Day Conference. The event focused on spiritual renewal, connection and empowerment, providing an opportunity for women of all ages to reset and strengthen their faith while also making a difference.
Organised by NNSW Women’s Ministries, the conference featured personal testimonies, prayer sessions and worship—led by a team representing different generations.
Guest speakers included Beryl Landers, NNSW Women’s Ministries director; Joy Butler, president of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and former South Pacific Division Women’s Ministries director; and Charissa Torossian, NNSW Prayer Ministries coordinator.
Also speaking at the event, NNSW secretary Pastor Abel Iorgulescu emphasised the significant role of women in society. He shared a story about his grandmother, highlighting her wisdom and strength, which influenced his values and shaped his commitment to gender equality.
In the afternoon, the MAD (Make a Difference) session focused on mission-driven initiatives, inspiring attendees to support projects such as Turn on the Tap, a partnership between Adventist Women and ADRA to provide clean water and sanitation facilities in the Solomon Islands.
Attendees raised more than $5000 during the conference, bringing the total amount raised for the project this year to $13,200—$3200 above the initial goal. “The generosity of our women is a testament to their passion for making a tangible difference,” said Mrs Landers.
Reflecting on the event, Mrs Landers said, “RESET was not just a time for spiritual renewal, but a chance for women to come together, inspire one another and make a tangible difference."
Adventist Aviation celebrates 60 years of reaching remote communities
Juliana Muniz Adventist Record
The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Adventist Aviation Association (AAA) celebrated 60 years of reaching remote communities through aviation in the South Pacific with a special program at Avondale Memorial church in Cooranbong (NSW) on November 1 and 2.
Former and current ministry members, including pilots, missionaries and supporters, attended the event, which opened with a Friday evening vespers. On Sabbath, the event featured a special morning service, a potluck lunch, a performance by the Avondale Brass Band, an afternoon program looking back at the history of Adventist Aviation and an evening gathering.
Speaking at the Sabbath school program, Pastor Jonathon Hunt-Mason, South Queensland Conference (SQC) AAA president, presented an overview of the aviation ministry’s work in Queensland. South Pacific Division President Pastor Glenn Townend presented the main message, sharing his personal experiences with Adventist Aviation Services (AAS) in PNG and reflecting on the power of aviation to reach isolated communities.
NNSW AAA president Pastor John Kosmeier explained the significance of the anniversary, “This milestone is significant because we can look back and see what God wanted, and it was done. And today we have churches raised up as a result of AAA.”
He noted key locations where AAA has advanced ministry in NNSW, including Brewarrina, Moree, Narrabri, Coonabarabran, Coonamble and Bourke.
For Pastors Keith and Danuta Stockwell, who planted the Brewarrina church, the work of AAA was essential for the growth of the outback-based church plant. “AAA was a huge help and support to us out west. They were like the ‘Golden Gate Bridge’ between the west and the coast,” said Pastor Danuta.
Pastor Keith explained that AAA offered support, from transporting church members from the coast who assisted with Sabbath programs to transporting food to feed the community attending church. “That was a big relief for us because being a church plant and being limited with Adventists out there to be able to help with a church plant, that became very vital for the ministry in the west.”
“We do this for the work of God,” said Pastor Kosmeier. “And that is the real purpose of Adventist Aviation: to go into isolated areas, where we win souls for Christ and connect them to His family, getting ready for Jesus to come.”
NNSW CAMPOREE INSPIRES ADVENTURERS TO MAKE JESUS THEIR
Bates/NorthPoint Staff NNSW Adventurer District Director
More than 600 Adventurers, families and staff gathered at Yarra Holiday Park (Stuarts Point Convention Centre) in Stuarts Point, NSW, for the bi-annual North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Adventurer Camporee. Held on the last weekend of school holidays, October 11 to 13, the event, themed “Option One”, encouraged the Adventurers to choose Jesus.
Guest speaker Pastor Ian Cangy, dressed as Jonah with a substantial black beard, presented the Bible character’s story on a stage decorated with sea creatures, including large paper-made jellyfish. “Pastor Cangy presented the story in a unique and powerful way,” said NNSW Pathfinder and Adventurer district director Alan Bates.
Alan
Adventurers enjoyed a weekend filled with activities, crafts, time in nature and spiritual growth.
The event also featured an underwater adventure drama performed by a team from Central Coast Adventurers and written by Scott Wegener, worship led by Maneesha Mistry-McNabb and supported by the Tongan Pathfinder Youth Band, and sea creature nature nuggets with Tammy Reeves.
Camporee Director Colleen Savage, NNSW children and family ministries director said, “I pray that all the families and adventurers who attended camporee went home ever knowing that choosing Jesus is and will always be our best option. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers for an amazing team effort.”
The event also honoured NNSW youth director Pastor Dana Howard and his wife Di for their years of service in youth ministries—the couple will enter semi-retirement at the end of the year. Pastor Howard, with the support of his wife, has served 15 years in youth ministries, seven of those at NNSW.
They were presented with gifts and a glass-engraved plaque that read, “Dana and Di Howard, thank you for your outstanding ministry to the Adventurers of NNSW Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church – 12th October 2024.”
Pathfinders raise $6740 for ADRA
Merle Cozens Hillview Church
Hillview Morisset Pathfinders raised $6740 for ADRA Australia to support displaced children and families in Ukraine through education, food, social activities and counselling. The fundraising effort culminated in a winter sleepout held on August 3, where Pathfinders built cardboard shelters and spent the night outdoors.
Before the sleepout, Luke Webster, a former ADRA employee, and Kelli-Jo Leslie, ADRA Australia’s Disaster Program coordinator, taught two ADRA Disaster Response honours. Using interactive activities, they challenged the Pathfinders to enhance their problem-solving skills and understand ADRA’s role in disaster response.
The evening concluded with the Pathfinders constructing shelters from cardboard boxes and packing tape, transforming the church courtyard into a makeshift “box town.” The experience was described by some as the best activity of the year, offering a mix of novelty and meaningful purpose.
The next morning, the event wrapped up with a pancake breakfast and the satisfaction of contributing to a cause that helps vulnerable communities.
Youth leaders meet to equip and connect
Shanna Duke Associate Editor, NorthPoint
More than 50 youth leaders from across the conference participated in the biannual Youth Leaders meetings this year, held in March and August by the Youth and Young Adult Department. The meetings aimed to equip leaders with practical tools, provide resources and strengthen connections between local churches.
Representing regions such as the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Mid-North Coast, Northern Rivers and the Western Region, the leaders gathered to discuss challenges, cast vision and build a collaborative network. The department worked closely with regional leaders to ensure the meetings addressed the unique needs of their communities.
According to Young Adults director Pastor Blair Lemke, the meetings served as a platform for exchanging ideas and addressing local challenges, helping youth leaders better support their communities.
“It’s always a blessing to meet with the young people to become aware of what their needs actually are,” added Pastor Lemke.
Meaningful service
Sherree Merritt/Northpoint staff
Lismore Church
Lismore church hosted a Police Remembrance Day service, bringing together officers, retired personnel and local church members to honour police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Held on September 29, the annual event commemorates their sacrifice and dedication to serving their communities.
The service featured a message from Pastor Tim Merritt, Lismore pastor and police chaplain, who reflected on the courage and commitment of the deceased officers. “He shared a powerful reminder of gratitude for those who serve and protect us daily, and pointed to the greatest sacrifice made through Jesus Christ,” said church member Sherree Merritt.
Around 40 officers in full uniform attended the event, joined by retired police personnel and local community members. “The atmosphere was one of unity and deep respect for the invaluable work of our police,” Mrs Merritt added.
The police superintendent remarked that in his 31 years of service, this had been the most meaningful Police Remembrance Day he had attended.
Heritage day
Roberto Velasquez/Northpoint staff
Newcastle Spanish Church
Newcastle Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted its annual Hispanic Day on October 6, raising $4,350 for ADRA. The event celebrated cultural diversity with traditional foods from various countries and a program highlighting community and cultural values. “Not only is this a chance to raise funds for a noble cause, but it’s also an opportunity to share our faith and connect with our community,” said church pastor Roberto Velasquez. Visitors enjoyed the occasion to socialise and contribute to ADRA’s mission of supporting vulnerable communities.
Charity auction
Taree Church held an auction on September 14 to support the Asian Children’s Foundation, an orphanage in Thailand run by Ian Adams. The event, including donations, raised $2,727, and Mr Adams expressed gratitude for the contribution to his work.
Volunteer appreciation
Mary Fedorow/Nothpoint staff Hillview Church
ADRA Op Shop Morisset showed appreciation to their volunteers by offering a special four-day breakfast event from September 1-4. Manager Theo Van Bezouwen thanked the volunteers, acknowledging their valuable contribution to the ADRA team. While Hillview Church sponsors the op shop the majority of ADRA’s volunteers come from the community; “They say they love to come and serve their community. Many feel the need for social interaction and their own mental health benefits from their participation. Being an ADRA volunteer is proving to be a good way to meet new people,” said church member Mary Fedorow.
Mathew Barber Taree Church
Pastor Morgan Vincent ordained at Avondale University Church
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
Pastor Morgan Vincent was ordained to ministry on October 5 at Avondale University Church. Pastor Vincent has served in various roles across the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW), including as a teacher and chaplain at Port Macquarie Adventist School and as a pastor at Blue Haven Church and Forresters Beach Church. He now serves as a pastor at Avondale University Church.
The ordination service, held during the Sabbath main service, included testimonies, music and a sermon by South New South Wales Conference president Pastor Justin Lawman. Leading the ordination service were NNSW president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu, secretary Pastor Abel Iorgulescu and Australia Union Conference associate ministerial secretary Pastor Brendan Pratt.
Pastor Vincent reflected on the ceremony, saying, "It's an exciting time to be in ministry. The affirmation from colleagues, mentors, and the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church is incredibly encouraging. I look forward to continuing this journey and contributing to the mission."
Pastor Blair Lemke ordained to ministry
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
Pastor Blair Lemke was ordained to ministry on November 2 at Newcastle University Church, located at the University of Newcastle.
Pastor Lemke has dedicated his career to serving the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) in various capacities. He began as a teacher and chaplain at Tweed Valley Adventist College, where he served for five years, before transitioning to pastoral and departmental leadership. Since 2018, he has been the NNSW Young Adults director, a role he fulfils alongside pastoring the Newcastle University Church Plant and pursuing a Master’s degree in theology from Andrews University, set to be completed in 2025.
The ordination ceremony, held in the afternoon, featured testimonies, music and a sermon by Pastor Matt Parra, Lead Pastor at Chehalis Seventh-day Adventist Church in Washington, United States. Leading the ordination service were South Pacific Division president Pastor Glenn Townend, NNSW president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu, South Queensland Conference president Pastor Brett Townend and Hamilton Church pastor Justin Torossian.
“This is a tremendous honour,” said Pastor Lemke. “Having the church recognise God’s calling on my life is both humbling and inspiring. I am committed to faithfully serving and fulfilling this call throughout my ministry.”
Pastor Lemke comes from a long line of pastors, continuing his family’s legacy as a fourth-generation minister. He and his wife Emma are expecting their third child.
Health leaders learn lifestyle coaching skills
Erin Keegan
NNSW Adventist Health Director
Health ministries leaders and pastors from across NNSW gathered from November 15 to 17 for the Lifestyle Coaching Skills workshop, held at the conference office.
The event featured guest speaker General Conference Health Ministries associate director Dr Katia Reinert, who taught practical key coaching skills on behaviour and lifestyle change.
The workshop emphasised integrating coaching into group facilitation for health ministry programs, as well as using these tools for effective follow-up to help individuals successfully implement positive lifestyle changes.
Dr Reinert highlighted the importance of coaching as a Bible-based method, how to ask powerful questions like Jesus did to encourage reflection, and how to combine spiritual conversations with practical support to engage the community with church members and promote discipleship.
“It was a restorative and wonderful learning experience as well as networking event,” said one attendee.
NNSW appoints new Adventist Senior Living CEO
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Nominating Committee has appointed Andrew Bailey as the new CEO of Adventist Senior Living (ASL). Mr Bailey will succeed David Knight, who will retire at the end of the year after nineteen years of service.
Mr Bailey currently serves as executive officer and director of nursing and midwifery at Macksville District Hospital and brings more than 20 years of healthcare and management experience.
His expertise spans aged care, community health and acute healthcare, with a strong focus on accreditation compliance, aged care legislation, and the principles of workplace health and safety (WHS) and equal employment opportunity (EEO).
His career highlights include being named one of two NSW recipients of the Nightingale Challenge in 2021, a program designed to develop emerging leaders in nursing and midwifery. He holds a Bachelor of Nursing, a Master's in Health Service Management, and several postgraduate certifications.
"I'm very excited for such an amazing opportunity, and also apprehensive, knowing what an outstanding job David has done over the last 19 years," Mr Bailey said. "My family and I are looking forward to making new friends and becoming part of a new community."
Mr Bailey is married to Sherryn, who recently accepted a nursing lecturer position at Avondale University. Together, they have three children.
David Knight, who has been CEO for nearly two decades, has positioned ASL as an important provider of senior living services. Under his leadership, ASL achieved key accreditations, expanded services, and enhanced programs focused on residents' physical and emotional well-being. Mr Knight will work closely with Mr Bailey during the transition to ensure continuity.
NNSW names new CFO
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Nominating Committee has appointed Shaun Lorentz as the new NNSW Chief Financial Officer (CFO). He replaces Russell Halliday, who announced his retirement after 40 years of denominational service.
Mr Lorentz has been serving as commercial manager for Adventist Media in Wahroonga (NSW) since 2020, focusing on sustainability and collaboration initiatives.
NNSW president Cristian Copaceanu thanked Mr Halliday for his contributions and welcomed Mr Lorentz. “We are grateful for Russell’s significant service and contribution to the church in Australia, particularly his 20+ years in NNSW. We welcome Shaun and his family to the NNSW team and look forward to working together to advance the Gospel Commission. Shaun brings a broad set of skills and experiences to this role, and we are confident his service will be a blessing to our work.”
Australian Union Conference president Pastor Terry Johnson also extended his support. “We welcome Shaun Lorentz, who has ably served our Adventist Schools Australia IT department and, most recently, as CFO at Adventist Media. His innovative strategies have strengthened the church’s digital evangelism efforts across the Pacific. We are pleased to see him step into the role of conference CFO and wish him every success.”
“I’m humbled to accept the call to this role and look forward to continuing to serve the church in North New South Wales,” said Mr Lorentz. “My family and I feel incredibly blessed by this opportunity and are eager to contribute to the mission and vision of the Conference.”
Mr Lorentz brings extensive experience in business and finance, holding an Honours Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa and membership with the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants in Australia. He began his career in South Africa, working in accounting before advancing to roles as finance controller and finance manager in the corporate sector. In 2008, he transitioned to denominational service as an audit senior at the General Conference Auditing Services (GCAS) in Australia.
He has also served at Adventist Schools Australia as senior business analyst and at Adventist Technology, supporting accounting and business systems across the South Pacific Division and overseeing the rollout of eGiving.
Mr Lorentz is married to Adele and they have two sons.
He will officially begin his role as NNSW CFO in January, with plans for a smooth transition alongside Mr Halliday over the coming months.
Teamwork–a highlight at Pathfinder rally
Shanna Duke Associate Editor, NorthPoint
Pathfinders from across northern New South Wales came together for the 2024 Northern Fair and Rally, held from September 13 to 15 near Grafton. The event brought 250 participants to camp, compete in challenges and develop practical skills.
District director Daniel Rutzerholtz described the importance of the event, “The clubs really love Fair and Rally because they get to camp for a whole weekend with other clubs and meet kids they don’t normally see.” Sharon Rutzerholtz, another director, added, “We love seeing how the clubs work together to encourage each other.”
Competitions showcased the enthusiasm and teamwork of clubs, with Lismore Pathfinders earning first place. Maclean and Manning Pathfinders followed in second and third, while smaller clubs also excelled in individual challenges.
The program featured a range of activities, including a Bible smuggling simulation, first aid training, knots and lashing demonstrations, and creative marching exercises. The program included worship sessions, shared meals, and a final day march, during which Pathfinders demonstrated their skills and teamwork in full uniform.
New youth director to focus on discipleship
Henrique Felix Editor, NorthPoint
Pastor Ashley Smith has been appointed the new North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) Youth director. He replaces Pastor Dana Howard, who has served in the role for the past seven years. Pastor Howard announced in July that he was moving back to local church ministry at the end of this year.
Currently serving as the general manager of Mission for the NNSW Schools Company, Pastor Smith will start the new role in December. Reflecting on the appointment, he said "It's exciting to serve the young people of our conference, to lead them nearer to Jesus and to really uplift Christ in what we do."
With more than 10 years of pastoral ministry, Pastor Smith plans to focus on discipleship in his new role. "We need to take Jesus' final words to His disciples seriously, where He said, 'Go and make disciples of all nations.' A big burden of mine is for our young people to be disciples of Christ—disciples who make disciples, who in turn make disciples," he said.
A passionate advocate for Pathfinders, Pastor Smith has played a key role in leading expeditions and camporees and stepped in to lead his local Pathfinder club when it needed leadership. "Pathfinders has had a big impact on my life, which is why it's such an important ministry for me," he explained.
Pastor Smith is married to Rosie and they have three children. He enjoys hiking, camping with his family and restoring his old Land Cruiser in his spare time.
There will be a transition period before Pastor Howard steps down at the end of the year, during which Pastor Smith will work closely with him to ensure a smooth handover.
Consulting Editor Cristian Copaceanu
Editor Henrique Felix
Associate Editor Shanna Duke
Cover Cybele Craig
We would love to share news from your local church with the Conference in print or online. Please send through relevant contributions to <nnswcommunication@adventist.org.au>.
Phone (02) 4951 8088
Email nnsw.conf@adventist.org.au
Website nnsw.adventist.org.au