North Point - August, 2023

August 2023 North New South Wales Conference News

How can you spiritually prepare as a delegate for the Session?

The election of our church leaders is a task of great responsibility. The Nominating Committee thus far has met 51 times to carefully and prayerfully consider the incumbents and their roles to prepare a report for you, the delegate, to vote upon September 17.

With all of this in mind, how can the general delegate prepare to receive the report on the morning of the meeting prepared for the vote?

Psalm 139:23-24 says:

Please, join us in seeking God's leading for the future of our Conference by prayerfully preparing your heart to be his servant.

Our leaders are people that devote their lives and make many sacrifices for their ministries. They are passionate about their work and all believe they are being led by the Lord in the way of their duties. Prayer is obviously the most important aspect of preparing for the Constituency Meeting.

The North New South Wales Constituency Meeting is scheduled to convene on September 17, 2023 at Yarra Holiday Park at 9am. Accommodation and travel will be arranged for registered delegates who have registered for it as per email sent by Jodie Bird.

The Conference staff would like to thank all those that have participated in the planning process of this meeting from church clerks, church pastors, delegates, delegates at large, staff and members.

If you have any enquiries regarding the meeting, please make contact with either NNSW General Secretary, Abel Iorgulescu (abeliorgulecu@adventist.org. au) or Team Support Assistant, Jodie Bird (jodiebird@ adventist.org.au).

If you are a delegate and have not yet registered, please email <jodiebird@adventist.org.au>.

"Search me, o God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Is it a contradiction?

Whenever you read the Bible, there is always something new to learn, a deeper meaning or understanding to grasp and layers of depth to explore. This should not surprise us as it is the inspired Word of God. It is not always easy to understand, and there are challenges for us. Sometimes there seems to be a contradiction or a conflict between two passages. Let me give you one example.

Hebrews 9:22 is a familiar text: “And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission” (NKJV). Let’s compare that with Leviticus 5, which describes the trespass offering. It starts with “If a person sins…” and outlines the process the Israelites needed to follow. The chapter describes the types of sins covered under the “trespass” category, followed by the offerings required for the “atonement” or forgiveness of those sins.

The trespass offering was to be a female of the flock, a lamb, or a kid of the goats as a sin offering (V6). If the individual could not afford a lamb or a kid, he would bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons (V7). Now comes the “contradiction”, which is found in verse 11. If he cannot bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons, his offering is to be one of fine flour. The Bible clearly says that it is a sin offering (V12), and verse 13 drives the point home by saying, “The priest shall make atonement for him, for his sin that he has committed in any of these matters; and it shall be forgiven him.”

But doesn’t Hebrews say that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission? Is this a contradiction? Well, maybe, but what is the key message here? The primary source of wealth in the Old Testament was herds and flocks. If you were not financially secure or were a servant or slave, you could bring two birds as a trespass offering. And if you cannot afford birds, you could bring an offering of fine flour.

God seems to say here that salvation and forgiveness are available to everyone, regardless of social standing and financial means. If you cannot afford a lamb or a kid, do not worry; bring two birds. And if you cannot afford two birds, do not worry; bring some fine flour. Your sins will still be forgiven. Is it a contradiction? You decide.

Pastor Adrian Raethel NNSW Conference president

One hundred years old and still volunteering

Merle Cozens Secretary, Cooranbong Community Services Centre

Staff at the Cooranbong Community Services Centre held a morning tea on May 10 to celebrate the 100th birthday of its oldest and longest-serving volunteer. Viv Fish has been serving faithfully at the Cooranbong Community Services Centre for the last 40 years.

During those years of change and expansion, Mr Fish has been a constant presence at the Centre, faithfully and efficiently filling many roles. These include transferring goods around the Centre, relocating bags of clothing and taking recyclables and rubbish to the corresponding bins.

All this while quietly undertaking sundry other tasks as he sees the need. Although quietly spoken and self-effacing, Mr Fish has endeared himself to the Centre staff over the years through his reliability and faithfulness, his ready smile and his willingness to help wherever needed.

Mr Fish received several other accolades during the week, including a 100th birthday card from King Charles and Queen Camilla, and a special visit to the Centre by Greg Piper, the local NSW Member of Parliament, who presented him with a congratulatory 100th birthday certificate.

He was also honoured with a special “This is Your Life” program by the Avondale Memorial Church where he has faithfully served as a deacon for many years, always being the first to arrive on Sabbath mornings to unlock the doors, open windows, and switch on lights and heaters as needed.

The Cooranbong Community Services Centre is constantly looking for volunteers and would be happy to hear from anyone who is interested, no matter what their age. Mr Fish, we salute you. You are an inspiration to us all.

TOP: Viv and his 100th birthday certificate with some of the volunteers and Gre Piper behind. ABOVE: Viv cutting his 100th birthday cake with David Blanch, President of CCSC, beside him. BOTTOM: Greg Piper presenting Viv with his 100th birthday certificate.

From atheist to Adventist: Baptism at Hamilton Church

Megantha Kiruwi Associate Editor, NorthPoint

Hamilton Church recently celebrated new member Gail Katz's baptism on June 10. Transitioning from atheism to embracing the Adventist faith, Ms Katz's testimony highlights her spiritual journey's profound impact.

Ms Katz shares that she grew up in a non-religious household, relating her experience to Romans 10:20, which reads, "I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me." She attributes much of her transformation to the prayers of others, particularly her friends in the United States. Additionally, the prayer of a financial advisor of hers initiated her journey to Christ.

A captivating prayer meeting

Mary Fedorow Hillview Church

Former history teacher turned theology student, Brett Weier, surprised attendees at the Hillview Prayer Meeting on June 21 with a captivating presentation. Mr Weier appeared in a complete suit of medieval armor, using it as a metaphor to illustrate the connection between the pieces of armor and the spiritual concept of the "whole armour of God" from Ephesians.

Mr Weier highlighted the Belt of Truth, emphasising its role as the foundation for spiritual battles. He correlated the nreastplate of righteousness to guarding the heart against evil. The shield of faith was represented by a large shield, acting as a defensive tool against doubt and fear. After this he drew attention to the helmet of salvation, stressing its importance in protecting the mind and providing a renewed perspective. Finally, he wielded a sword, symbolising the Word of God as an offensive weapon against darkness.

After a troubling vision, she confided in her Adventist hairdresser, who connected her with Pastor Ben Rea. She participated in Bible studies with Pastor Rea before joining Pastor Justin Torossian and his wife Charissa in studies.

Both pastors Ben and Justin had the privilege of baptising Ms Katz, and her baptism symbolised a significant milestone, representing her complete surrender to God and her newfound identity as an Adventist believer.

Ms Katz's full testimony can be found on the Hamilton Church Facebook page.

By creatively merging history with faith, Mr Weier inspired attendees to face their spiritual battles equipped with these elements. The presentation left a lasting impact, bridging the medieval era with the present-day spiritual journey. His ability to connect with the members and deepen their understanding of the "whole armour of God" was highly praised, making it a standout moment at the prayer meeting.

TOP: Ms Katz before being baptised. LEFT: From left to right: Pastor Rea, Ms Katz and Pastor Torossian at Hamilton Church before baptism. RIGHT: Ms Katz with hairdresser Kathy Clarke at baptism.

Fun run brings light to the dark

Brenton Stacey Avondale University

An adventure challenging participants to complete a 5.25-kilometre course each hour over eight hours has raised $22,000 to restore sight for the blind in India.

Illumin8 began in the dark on Saturday June 3 with more than 200 runners and walkers setting off on their first lap around the tracks on the Avondale Estate. Forty completed the eighth and final lap at 2am, covering the same distance as a marathon. As a group, the participants covered the same distance as from Sydney to Perth.

“Illumin8 showed we can do more than we realise,” says co-organiser Professor Darren Morton, director of the Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre at Avondale University. He tells of one young adult who planned to complete just two laps but completed all eight. “Your true colours come out when you’re tested.”

Many of the participants were students in the Avondale Character Experience Laboratory, which hosted the event. The wellbeing program builds resilience through challenging experiences that build community and connect the students with service, nature and God. “Illumin8 ticked all three,” says ACE Lab Director Doctor Jason Hinze.

A food van, fire pits and live entertainment helped create a warm and welcoming feel as participants crossed the start and finish line in front of the auditorium.

Family and friends sponsored the participants. Promoted as bringing light to the darkness for more than 400 people with avoidable blindness, Illumin8 raised money for a charity called Eyes for India Oceania.

Illumin8 is not a race but a fun run where people champion each other, says Dr Morton. “It’s more about the conversations along the way and a commitment to lift your life and the lives of others."

Baptism after decades of prayer

The Dorrough family rejoiced on June 30 as Martin Dorrough entered the waters of baptism at Taree Church. His wife Katrina has prayed for this day for many years.

In a loving home, Mr Dorrough attended Sunday School until his early teens. However, when theology graduate Robert Pannekoek preached a sermon entitled "Sitting on the Fence", Mr Dorrough felt the message was speaking directly to him. After Bible studies with Mr Pannekoek, his knowledge grew and he decided to follow Jesus all the way.

Mr Dorrough has been close to the church for almost 30 years, taking roles in Pathfinder clubs in the Central Coast, Port Macquarie and Manning area. He is so highly valued in his local community that the church Pathfinder club formed a guard of honour down the aisle after his baptism.

Unfortunately, Mr Pannekoek could not be at the baptism; nevertheless, close friend Pastor Paul Richardson had the honour of baptising Martin. Local Taree minister, Pastor Graham Stewart, led him through the baptismal vows and welcomed him into membership. The service was a fitting occasion to honour Mr Dorrough's decision.

Jane Richardson Taree Church

Newcastle Spanish Church celebrates organised church status

Megantha Kiruwi Associate Editor, NorthPoint

The Newcastle Spanish Seventh-day Adventist company became an established church on July 8. A special service was held in the afternoon, attended by North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) president Pastor Adrian Raethel, secretary Pastor Abel Iorgulescu and church planting director Pastor Joseph Skaf.

The church began as a small group in 1991 that gathered in Cooranbong. Despite their modest size, each member was committed to the church’s progress. The congregation, united by their shared faith, worked tirelessly to keep the church running smoothly.

Church member Lucía Osorio shared that there was an abundance of joy and passion among all the members. She compared the group to a lighthouse, explaining that the church was established to ignite and guide the community. Over the years, the church actively participated in various community outreach events, evangelistic campaigns and church camps.

“I have been able to share as a witness and plant seeds in people’s hearts as a member of the church,” said Ms Osorio.

When church member Juan Carlos Rodríguez reflected on his time at the Newcastle Spanish Church, he praised God. “It took Moses 40 years in the wilderness and only 32 years for our church,” he added.

Pastor Skaf explained that for a group to become an organised church, they must first enter the church plant phase, which is comparable to a child. After the group grows, they reach a point of maturity and enter the church company stage, which is likened to a teenager. It is larger; however, to enter the organised church stage, the company needs a certain number of ministries, members and tithes and offering contributions.

Pastor Skaf concluded by stating that “behind this sort of change in status, there is a lot of prayer, a lot of stories [and] a lot of lives being transformed leading up to this point…It is quite incredible to see the [Newcastle Spanish] Church progress to being an organised church.”

TOP: Group photo of Newcastle Spanish Church members. ABOVE: Pastor Raethel shares sermonette.

BELOW: Conference executives with church pastor Roberto Velasquez. BOTTOM: Chuch pastor Roberto Velasquez addresses the congregation.

Taree Church hosts eighth CHIP health program

During May and June, Taree Church hosted the CHIP health program, overseen by Dr Peter Romero, the church health coordinator. This marked the eighth CHIP program in which Dr Romero and his wife Sue participated in.

The program attracted an average of 15 attendees, consisting of church members and individuals from the local community. Participants had an enjoyable experience while acquiring knowledge on enhancing their wellbeing and effectively addressing chronic illnesses. They were actively learning practical methods to improve their health, such as incorporating regular exercise, adopting a nutritious and delicious diet and embracing a holistic approach to their overall lifestyle. The program provided valuable insights and empowered individuals to take control of their health, promoting a positive impact on their lives.

By hosting the CHIP program, Taree Church offered an inclusive opportunity for members and non-members to engage in proactive health education and inspire positive behavioural changes.

University church rejoices over baptism

Megantha Kiruwi Associate Editor, NorthPoint

Newcastle University Church community celebrated the baptism of new member Josephine Muzenda on July 1. After relocating from Zimbabwe last year, Ms Muzenda discovered the Adventist faith through her host family, who attended the Hamilton Church.

Through her work as an occupational therapist, she met an Adventist woman who connected her with the Newcastle University Church. Engaging in Bible studies with Bible worker Hana Nakagawa and church member Maureen Aliddeki, Ms Muzenda concluded that her Catholic baptism did not align with Biblical baptism and sought a change.

With the support of the community, she was baptised in a church member’s home by Pastor Blair Lemke and Ms Aliddeki. Church members laid hands on the newly baptised member as they conducted a dedicatory prayer.

Bible worker Ms Nakagawa shared that "it was so clear that God was leading her life and bringing people to her. No one can get credit but God only.” Her baptism serves as an inspiration, underscoring the profound impact that genuine spiritual seeking, coupled with a caring community, can have in one's life.

Mathew Barbar Taree Church

Unforgettable children’s concert at Wallsend

Rebecca Cheers Pastor, Wallsend Church

Over 450 young children and their carers gathered for a special evening program at Wallsend Church on June 4 to sing songs and praise God. The event was co-hosted by Macquarie College and Wallsend Church and was led out by Colin Buchanan, Australia's leading Christian children's artist.

The event was part of Mr Buchanan's tour commemorating the 25th anniversary of the release of his song Remember the Lord. "Many of the families

attending were from our surrounding community," explained one of the event's organisers. "And it was certainly a night the kids will never forget!"

THE STORY OF SAMSON: FIND-A-WORD

ANGEL DELILAH

FORTY YEARS

FOXES

HAIR

JUDGED LIES

SAMSON SHAVE

TIMNAH WEDDING

The North New South Wales Conference office finds new temporary home

Megantha Kiruwi Associate Editor, NorthPoint

The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) team has temporarily moved their offices to the Education Hall on the Avondale University estate in Cooranbong. This is the first step of a two-stage relocation process to their new permanent building on Site 9 of the former Sanitarium engineering division office on the Avondale estate.

The former office at Wallsend closed on June 16 and has been operating in a temporary space since June 26. The final move to the new permanent location is scheduled for October this year.

The Children’s Resource Centre and Faith FM studio have also found new locations. The resource centre now operates from the lower ground floor of Site 9, while Faith FM is temporarily based in Kurri Kurri Church, with additional plans to move to Site 9 in October.

Highlighting several benefits of the relocation, NNSW CFO Russell Halliday explained that the income generated from leasing the old conference office property in Wallsend will significantly contribute to the Church’s mission within the conference.

“It is [also] certainly more convenient for those of us that have to work with our school’s company head office and aged care,” said Mr Halliday.

While the relocation process presented minor challenges, the overall transition was smooth. Renovations for the new permanent location will commence once the necessary approvals are obtained from the Council.

The temporary move was successfully coordinated by project manager Patricia Antas, who previously directed two relocations at the Greater Sydney Conference. The NNSW team expressed their appreciation for Mrs Antas’s professionalism and careful management of the first stage of the relocation process.

The conference also extended its gratitude to Avondale University for their generous support and hospitality. Mr Halliday expressed thanks, stating, “We are grateful and thankful to Avondale for providing us with temporary accommodation. They have been incredibly accommodating and have met all our needs.”

Consulting Editor Adrian Raethel

Editor Henrique Felix

Associate Editor Megantha Kiruwi

Cover Unsplash/Natalie Sum

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>.

A melodious Sabbath at Hillview

Mary Fedorow Hillview Church

Hillview members were treated to an uplifting display of musical talent on June 3. Throughout the service the power of music was evident, touching the hearts and souls of everyone present.

Under the guidance of worship coordinators Elaine and David Woolley, the congregation experienced a morning filled with soul-stirring melodies.

Vernon Lewis led the men's choir which began with an introit, followed by a selection of uplifting hymns and spiritual songs. One of the highlights of the morning was the inspiring performance by young soloist Katherine Tasker.

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Disclaimer

Articles express the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The North New South Wales Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church acknowledges the First Nations People as the traditional custodians of this land. We also pay our respects to the elders, past, present, and emerging.

Read the full acknowledgement at advnt.au/AckCountry

Adding an instrumental touch to the morning's program, saxophonist Gloria Grosser followed with a special item that left the congregation spellbound and in awe.

Church pastor, Les Ncube, expressed his gratitude for the exceptional musical offerings. "We are blessed to have such incredible talent within our congregation. Music has the power to transcend barriers and bring us closer to God. Today's performances were a testament to the passion and dedication of our musicians, and I am grateful for the gift they shared with us," he remarked.

Phone (02) 4951 8088

Email nnsw.conf@adventist.org.au

Website nnsw.adventist.org.au

TOP: Men's chorus under the guidance of Vernon Lewis. LEFT: Young soloist, Katherine Tasker sharing a song. RIGHT: Gloria Grosser playing her saxophone at the service.

North New South Wales

Conference Office Relocation Our Temporary Home

The North New South Wales Conference Office has started the twostage relocation process.

Our former office at 112 Lake Road, Wallsend closed its doors on June 16, 2023. We have since moved to our temporary home at the Avondale University education building, in Cooranbong.

As of June 26, 2023, we have been operating from the Education building, where we will be based until our definitive move to our new office location, still on the Avondale estate, late this year.

During this transition, our phone number, email, and PO Box will remain the same. After the final move, mail sent to the PO Box will be redirected to the new office for a period of time. You can continue to reach out to us using the following contact details:

Phone: (02) 4951 8088

Email: nnsw.conf@adventist.org.au

PO Box: PO Box 7, Wallsend NSW 2287

Scan the QR code or visit the webpage advnt.au/OfficeRelocation for more details and updates about our relocation, Resource Centre and Faith FM studio. We look forward to continuing to serve the community from our new address.