Baptist Churches of New Zealand
v.131 † no.1
THE UNIFYING NATURE OF COMMUNION WHAT CAN MAORI CULTURE TEACH THE CHURCH? THE REFINING POWER OF THE WILDERNESS STRENGTHS BASED LEADERSHIP: WHAT COULD YOU BE DOING?
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04 16
CONTE NTS F E AT U R E
A new kind of church..................... 4 R E S O U R CE S
Equipping you................................ 8 R E F L E CTI ONS
Magazine Manager Angela Pedersen
Pyramid paradigms........................ 9
Editor Sarah Vaine Art Director Sue Pepper World Reach Greg Knowles
D IS C IPL E SHI P
Sharing our common-union.......... 10
Business Manager Daniel Palmer __ Contact
FA M I LY
NE W S
Keeping you posted...................... 14
Editorial sarah@baptistmag.org.nz Advertising advertising@baptistmag.org.nz Website baptistmag.org.nz Baptist Churches of New Zealand PO Box 12-149, Penrose,
Y O U T H
Upside down and inside out......... 16 C U LT U R E
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Different frames for the picture.... 18
Auckland 1642, New Zealand __ Printing Image Print, Auckland
L E AD E RSHI P
Empowering strengths................. 22
__ The NZ Baptist Magazine
D IR E C TORY
........................... 25
is the magazine of the Baptist Churches of New Zealand
W O R L D
R E ACH
Freedom comes to Murshidabad �� 26
COVER PHOTO: ROBIN SMITH
Hope continues still...................... 28
Distributed through local Baptist Churches in New Zealand and dependent on their contributions. Registered with POHQ as a newspaper. ISSN 1176-8711
v.131 no.1 † 3
Baptist / F
EAT UR E
A NEW KIND OF How should we as the church respond to a rapidly changing culture?
Our world has been changing rapidly and radically
Relationships have changed
over the last few years. Amidst this change,
The church is no longer automatically at the centre of
the western church is in danger of appearing like refugees, fleeing an increasingly alien world.
a neighbourhood. People live, work and play in lots of different places and are less likely to know neighbours. Therefore it is less likely that people will wander in off the street into the local church.
The gap between the culture around us and church as we know it is widening and we are at the point now
Understanding has changed
where we need a new understanding of what it means
People today know less and less about Christianity; 40% of the
to be Christ’s ambassadors and what it means to be a missional church. As we consider how we can
UK population are now completely ‘unchurched’ (they’ve never had any connection with church). In my wife’s class for instance, five out of seventy four-year-olds had any knowledge of what the
provide places for the communities around us
name Jesus means in the context of Christmas. Many of these
to encounter Christ and be discipled, let us consider
children come from homes where not only the parents but also the
whether we need to start re-imagining the very way
grandparents know nothing about Christianity. So even if someone
we do church. What cultural changes do we need to consider? Schedules have changed
did wander in off the street, how would the average Sunday service appear to them for the first time?
So how do we respond? Every context will need to consider this differently. However, let
Sunday now has all kinds of options for work and play, so
me share a little of what has been happening in the UK, under the
increasingly we find Sunday church attendance is not a priority.
banner ‘Fresh Expressions.’
This means that people are less likely to start coming to church and more people are becoming ‘dechurched’ (they’ve lost
Some years ago, we came to an uncomfortable realisation; though
connections with church).
we might have a thriving congregation of 1,000 working hard to make
40% of the UK population are now completely ‘unchurched’ 04 † v.131 no.1 www.baptistmag.org.nz
v.131 no.1 †05
Baptist / F
EAT UR E
R I V E RF OR CE
How did it start? One guy inviting colleagues to his home to meet. The group multiplied three times. What was the problem? He reached a point where he couldn’t reach any further. How did it move forward? The possibility of planting a church inside the police headquarters was discussed with one of the senior officers. This was a guy who had become a Christian five years before and joined a local church. But when his wife died and he was given a promotion, he spent most of his waking life at work and couldn’t seem to get back into church. It turned out that four other senior officers had a desire for fellowship, so they started meeting once a week at work when they were all available (which turned out to be 7am on a Friday morning). And? Seven further groups have been formed, spreading to other forces.
N EW
C R E AT IO N S
How did it start? As a card making group.
our building accessible to the community
time apart from church and give us the
Any interest in coming to
outside, there were probably another 10,000
most natural connections imaginable with
church? No.
right on the doorstep who couldn’t relate
the people around us. It might be a sport,
How did it move forward?
and wouldn’t engage. It was from here that
hobby, work or family. So we’re asking very
Snapshots of faith were included,
a new movement slowly began to emerge.
simply, “how can we provide places for
like a 2 minute talk on the
It came with phrases like ‘fresh expressions
people to encounter Christ and be discipled
meaning of Advent when making
of church,’ but more helpfully the phrase
in these places, where people live and find
Christmas cards.
‘mission-shaped church.’
community?” Essentially, “how can we be
What was the response from
church in these places?”
the group? “We loved it” and “I
We called it that deliberately because if we’re
wish I could find peace in my life.”
honest, we’ve often been guilty of shaping
The challenge is not to try and do our
Conversations started flowing
our mission to fit the church we’re in. We’ve
mission there in a church shaped way but
around the card making tables.
said, “this is the kind of church we are, you’re
rather to create a mission-shaped church,
What happened next? Half the
very welcome to come and we’ll do all that
inside those networks.
ladies started meeting for lunch
we can to welcome you, but it’s the shape of
before the group, so an invitation
our church and traditions that are all important
Here’s an illustration. There was a little camel,
was put out to any who wanted, to
here and can’t be changed.” Yet it was never
who said to his father one day, “Dad, why
meet for lunch each week to
meant to be that way around. The church was
have I got such big flat feet?” His father said,
explore the spiritual issues raised.
always meant to be shaped by its mission, by
“well son, in the desert you need big flat feet
And? 6 weeks on and a group of
the context that it finds itself in.
because the sand is soft and they help us to
unchurched ladies were sitting in
keep on our feet.” Next the little camel said,
a circle praying together. They talk
What does a ‘fresh expression’
about New Creations being their
of church look like?
church. The building blocks of
Consider this; all of us have
church are slowly but surely being
a whole range of God-given
put into place within that setting.
passions and interests that take up much of our lives and our
06 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
“so Dad, why have I got big eyelashes?”
How can the Kingdom of God be expressed in these places, where people live and find community?
It is about engaging with a society and offering what it really needs. His father replied, “well son, in the desert
these three components, but it will aim to
reapplying as culture continues to change.
when there’s a lot of wind, the sand gets
incorporate all the elements over time.
But the idea is that we are intentional in
thrown about in the air, and we need big
connecting with those already around us
eyelashes to stop the sand getting in
A word of caution
who need Jesus and we ask, “what could
our eyes.” The little camel asked another
This is not about pandering to a consumer
church look like in this setting?” We don’t
question. “Dad, why have I got a hump on
society and giving it anything it wants.
lose the rich traditions, but we engage in
my back?” His father replied again, “well
It is about engaging with a society and
our contexts to share Jesus to a world that
son, out in the desert sometimes we’re
offering what it really needs.
desperately needs Him.
without water for a long time, and so we’ve
__
got a hump which is designed to store lots
This is also not an alternative fad to take
of water and help us survive in the desert.”
the place of traditional church. The vision
The little camel pauses. Then he said,
is both to honour our inheritance and what
“Dad, I know why we’ve got big feet, long
continues to work in many contexts,
eyelashes and a hump, but why are we
as well as to welcome what’s emerging in
living in the Zoo?!”
a new form, engaging in fresh places.
This is the reality; we have been given the
We use the image of a lake and a river.
humps, the feet and the eyelashes to live
Lakes tend to form in settled places,
TAK E
in the world and love the people in it. We
where they form an oasis to the life around
1. How do you respond to
have lots of things in common with the other
them, just as a community parish church
camels but we need to be out of the zoo and
can be an oasis and a source of life to
into the desert. To do this, however, we need
the community around. But then there’s
to rethink church ‘outside of the zoo.’
the river. It is still a part of the lake and
3. What concerns you?
Story: Canon Phil Potter Canon Phil Potter is the Archbishops’ Missioner and Leader of the Fresh Expressions team in the UK.
OUTS!
this article?
2. What is it that excites you about these thoughts?
connected at its source, but it can move
4. What gifts and hobbies do you
Ideas start small and simply. They consider
into many different places, wherever the
already have that give you
three elements of what it means to be
ground gives way and the rain falls. It’s not
connections with those who
church; worship, community and mission,
an either-or, but a powerful blend of lake
either do not know Jesus or who
each expressed in different ways by
and river, inherited and emerging. You’ll
different people. They develop in stages.
need to translate and reapply this in your
An idea might begin with only one of
own context and then keep translating and
are not in church?
5. What could you do about this?
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Baptist / R
ESOUR C E S
EQUIPPING YOU
B O O K S
COUR SE S
Gathering Around the Table: Children and Communion
Starting Missional Churches
Healthy Sexuality for Teens
This is an introductory presentation
We live in a culture that is saturated
For parents, individuals and
of the values of missional church
with references to sexuality, with
churches reflecting on the tradition
plants, with comparison to previous
many references being negative.
of Communion, these studies are
plants. Through the profiling of seven
In 2015, Liz Walker will be leading
well worth undertaking. They would
church planters and the experience
workshops for youth leaders on the
serve well in
of their churches, the reader is
topic of healthy
homegroup
invited to contemplate the stories
sexuality for
settings as well
of God at work and observe how
teens, around
as wider church
pertinent this
New Zealand.
contexts. The
shift may be in
format is user
today’s culture.
information is
Whilst
relevant.
the North
To use a cliché, this is a ‘must read’
American
for churches today!
setting has
Starting Missional Churches
friendly and the
EditEd by
Mark Lau branson and Nicholas Warnes
Liz is the Managing Director of Youth Wellbeing
Life wi
th God
in the
Neighbo
rhood
Project, with a Masters in Health Science (Sexual Health) and years of
limitations for
experience working with youth and
our context here, this book offers
leaders. She is passionate about
insight and challenge as we consider
enabling leaders to be proactive
how we in New Zealand respond to
in addressing this topic and to
our changing culture.
be equipped to manage these conversations. The workshop will cover a range of topics, including understanding sexuality, pornography and sexualisation, how to respond to ‘red-flag’ behaviours and it also explores prevention of coercive or abusive behaviour.
M U S IC
If you are involved in leading, teaching or mentoring youth, we would
This is the latest album from Worship Central.
thoroughly recommend that you get
The passion for Jesus comes across in the 14 tracks of
along to one of these workshops.
this declarative live album. The dance style and arena rock of their most recent songs combined with tracks
See www.bym.org.nz for more
of spontaneous worship focuses listeners on Jesus’
information and to get signing up
centrality and our response to this.
for the workshops around NZ in February and March 2015.
Worship Central is a training ground for worshippers, birthed from Holy Trinity Brompton in London, UK. It
Check out Liz Walker’s ‘Life on the
aims to equip worshippers around the world to make
Sex Spectrum’ article online at
Christ central in their local context.
www.baptistmag.org.nz
08 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
v.131 no.1 † 08
RE F L E CTI ONS
F R OM
CRAI G
V E R NAL L
/ Baptist
PYRAMID PARADIGMS We are all shaped by the environments that we indwell and at times we need God to reshape our outlooks.
Forty years in the desert tending sheep should be enough to change anyone’s outlook on life, right? A bit excessive? Well, maybe not. Maybe some of our mindsets, attitudes and habits require a drastic makeover before God is ready to use us to our full potential. Craig Vernall looks at part of Moses’ story as he addresses this issue.
raised by. There is only room for one person
in all things. Especially leadership. Moses’
at the top of a pyramid. In keeping with this,
first leadership request was to call upon the
Moses had exerted his dominance and the
help of another. Someone who he trusted
Egyptian slave master had lost.
and could rely upon in times of difficulty. Moses’ future story was not to consist of
But this was not the way that the God
becoming a perfect leader by any stretch,
of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob was going
but to become a leader who knew his
to have Moses lead His Hebrew people
place before God and the people he was to
on a significant journey of self and God
lead. No pyramids, just a paradigm of God
discovery. Moses, God’s new chosen
dependency.
leader, was not going to lead in the ways of Pharoah. Otherwise, God may just as
Sometimes, the desert is what we need to
well have left his people in Egypt; nothing
unlearn bad habits or attitudes. But it is
would change for the better if the new
a high price to pay. So choose your
leader was simply a Hebrew slave master.
paradigm carefully because forty years is
The Hebrew God would have His servant
a long time and burning bushes don’t come
Moses’ story is one of complete renovation.
walk by the Spirit not by the flesh. For this
along often.
Having been raised in the privileged position
reason the flesh had to die. Forty years of
__
as an adopted son of Egypt’s Pharoah,
desert time should be enough.
Story: Craig Vernall, Baptist Churches of
Moses learned the elite Egyptian ways as
New Zealand National Leader
second nature. Not Moses’ fault? Well it
So forty years in the desert tending sheep
certainly became Moses’ problem. When
with a Midian family was to be God’s answer
Moses came upon an Egyptian slave
for Moses’ leadership makeover. When God
master beating a Hebrew slave, Moses
chose to catch up with Moses by way of
thought he was doing his people a favour
a burning bush, God found a completely
by killing the Egyptian and burying his body
different person. When finally challenged
in the sand. The following day when Moses
to go back to Egypt, Moses had become
saw two Hebrews fighting they challenged
such a humble and broken man that he
him by suggesting that he would sort out
asked whether in his going he could take
their argument by also killing them. Moses
his brother Aaron to speak on his behalf.
thought his murderous deed had been done
Now the bold, brash and impetuous Moses
in secret. But word was out, so he fled to
could barely string a few words together.
Midian and set up home for himself for forty
Yes, the pyramid paradigm had gone. It was
years until God called him into service.
no longer about Moses and his strength.
TAK E
OUTS!
1. How has your leadership manner been shaped over the years?
2. What has most influenced you? 3. Were you like Moses and surrounded by strong leader types who thought power was something to be seized and exercised over others? Maybe you were this strong leader type. Maybe you are still in this place. What could you do about this?
No longer was he going to lead out of the Without realising it, Moses had adopted
need to exercise power over others. Now he
and defaulted to a pyramid paradigm from
had a heart and mind that was dependent
the values of the Egyptian people he’d been
upon God for his strength and provision
v.131 no.1 † 09
Baptist / D
I SC IP L E S H IP
SHOWING OUR
COMMONUNION Dale Campbell explores the richness of Communion, inspiring us to look at fresh ways of experiencing its unifying power in Christ.
I’m becoming convinced; Communion (a.k.a. the Eucharist or Lord’s Supper) should be a central expression of gathered worship.
However, Communion also says something about what we are being made into, namely the body of Christ. And what kind of body are we being made into? A united and diverse body, consisting of different ages, genders, ethnicities, nationalities, political persuasions, worship preferences and clothing styles.
We ‘do’ Communion because Jesus told us to. But why did He give us this practice? He gave it to us as a way to remember Him
So we have to ask ourselves, do our gatherings witness to our
and be fed by Him. Just as our body needs food to survive, we are
diverse unity, or do we allow divisions to reign? We can see the
reminded of our utter need for Christ to bear our sins (1 Corinthians
struggle in the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 with the
11:24-25). Every time we take the bread and cup, we come face to
division of the body into the rich and over-fed, and the poor and
face with our great sin and our even greater Saviour, who feeds us
un-fed. Some were enjoying the Supper in ways that suited their
with His very self. We share Christ’s body and blood
preferences, goals and interests, but neglected and even shamed
(1 Corinthians 10:16), which are our true food and drink
others. Paul goes so far as to say that this made it not the Lord’s
(John 6:55), our sustenance for life eternal.
Supper, but their own private supper! Any supper that is called the Lord’s must equally welcome all the different parts of His body.
The Lord’s Supper is also evangelistic. The way we do Communion
In this way, Communion should show off our ‘common-union’
is itself a witness. When we take Communion, we “proclaim the
in Christ.
Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Proclaiming the past death and the future coming of Christ speaks both to the
Common-union reminders
secure ground we already stand on, as well as our glorious hope,
I will never forget taking Communion with a group of Anglican
which is not yet fully realised.
Christians at Parachute Music Festival. The priest was wearing
We ‘do’ Communion because Jesus told us to. But why did He give us this supper? 10 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
v.131 no.1 †11
Baptist / D
I SC IP L E S H IP
KAI
HAU
K AI
In ancient M ori feasts, kumara was shared in a ritual called Kai hau Kai. The idea was based around the coming together for reunion, reconnection and restoration of relationships. Kumara is a root word from the term Maung rongo (meaning
Use a single loaf of bread ... or a common cup to symbolise the common union in Christ.
peaceful/good medicine, coming down from above). M ori have always had the understanding that there are properties within the kumara that have medicine like qualities, therefore it is good to eat
festival gear (jandals and shorts), but the
• Combine with other churches (and
gospel symbols on his liturgical stole
denominations, if understanding allows
reminded us that this was an act of worship.
for it) to demonstrate our common-
The prayers of confession and thanksgiving
unity in Christ.
were not only theologically rich, but saying
• Borrow practices from other traditions.
them out loud together was beautifully…
How is the Spirit working outside of our
awkward! We each had to adjust our own
tradition and how can we share this
speaking pace to be in unison with others.
experience?
To receive the bread and cup, we formed a
• Say a prayer of confession and
circle and were served by people of different
thanksgiving together as the service
ages and genders. I wasn’t used to the
heads towards Communion.
wafer, which tasted stale and awful but I
• Carefully choose the Scripture readings,
was reminded that the majority of Christians
to remind the congregation of the
around the world take it in this form, and I
reasons for Communion.
felt strangely connected to them. Sipping
kumara was plentiful and therefore part of the M ori staple diet, but in fact because it’s good for you. So when shared together in this ritualistic way, we are reminded of our need for reunion, reconnection and restoration of relationships. In a similar way, Communion reminds us that Jesus is/can be Kai hau Kai, the feast for why we gather. __ Story: David Moko
• Use a single loaf of bread and/
wine from a common cup was also new to
or a common cup to symbolize the
me, but again, I felt connected to the wider church. In addition, the richness of this time
cooked or raw. It wasn’t because
‘common-union’ in Christ. • Have Communion outside church
TAKE
OUTS!
1. Has the idea of Communion
to focus on our common-union in Christ
services (i.e. dinner with family/friends,
reflecting our common-
reminded me that all too often we load our
or at a study group). Private or smaller
union with all who love Jesus
services with so much that communion can
celebrations of Communion allow for
be rushed or tacked-on. We lose the focus
greater freedom of expression; just
on this central and beautiful expression of
remember the need for Communion
worship.
to witness to common-unity shared between many diverse kinds of people.
How about you?
• Accompany your pastor when they
So what can you do to let Communion
take Communion to the sick or elderly
not only feed you, but also witness to the
person unable to make it to church.
challenged you?
2. What could you do to further explore this?
3. Who around you would provide a different experience of Communion to the one you’re used to?
diverse unity of the body of Christ? Here
__
As you explore this, listen to the
are some ideas to try!
Story: Dale Campbell
Spirit’s leading. We would love to hear your experiences. Post these
• Aim for as much diversity as you can in the church services where you share Communion together.
12 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
Dale Campbell is a pastor at Northcote Baptist. During 2014 he studied 1 Corinthians 11: 17-34 for his Masters at Carey Baptist College.
on our Facebook page or email sarah@baptistmag.org.nz
ADV E RTI SI NG
PR OMOTI ON
/ Baptist
Here’s a fresh way of looking at saving that isn’t what you’re traditionally taught and it is what we’ve been going around New Zealand teaching thousands of families – how to do your finances better.
A FRESH WAY TO LOOK AT SAVING One of the beautiful things about God is that He reveals Himself in new ways and refreshes our thinking about many things in life.
The traditional way of looking at savings is working out our income and our expenses and saving anything left over. The problem is, this doesn’t work unless there is a surplus. We can show you how to shift your saving paradigm to one where your income comes first, then your savings and then the rest is what you live on. It may sound counter-intuitive, but believe me, once you’re used to this new way, your savings grow,
your financial stress is reduced and you will have been able to adapt to a ‘new way’ of living within your means. Think about it. If you were to have put away 5 – 10% of your income from your very first paycheck, then you would be in a totally different financial situation now, right? There is a new way; you can start today and we can help you. Come to one of our hundreds of seminars around the country or go to our website and check out the financial tips section. We can help you move towards financial freedom and your savings goals – starting today.
Andrew L’Almont
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Baptist / F A
M I LY
N E W S
SE E KI NG
KEEPING YOU POSTED
PHOTOG R APHE R S
Are you a professional or budding photographer? Are you looking for ways to get your work seen? The Baptist magazine is interested in hearing from you! We are looking for photographers from around NZ who would like their work to be featured in the magazine and on the website.
Here we share some snapshots from around the country of hearts that long to know and share more of God’s love to the people around them.
This is not a paid offer, it’s for love! We would however publish your name with your photograph. Also if you’re at events around the country we’d love to hear from you! Email: sarah@baptistmag.org.nz with your details and some samples of your work!
In her new role of supporting Baptist church community ministries, Ruby Duncan recently
Carey Baptist College Principal Charles Hewlett returns to the College
took a trip to Canterbury. Her visit took her
overseas. Along with his wife and
to churches in Rangiora, St Albans and
daughter, Charles spent time visiting five
Oxford where she was inspired by what
profoundly disabled people in Brazil, the
she saw. Rangiora is the fourth largest city
USA, Scotland, India and Cambodia.
of Canterbury and growing by around 500
Charles notes, “We have been working
people a year since the earthquakes. The
on a writing project that illustrates how
church is also growing and they have
people with profound intellectual disability
a wide range of community ministries from
participate in the Mission of God. We want
a café to a foot clinic. They are located
to provide counter-narratives to the often
adjacent to a school which creates space
misleading and oppressive stories that
for a community garden (run by the
get told about the disabled.” He notes,
church) and the relationships with the local
“A personal highlight of the trip has been
community and government agencies are
meeting followers of Jesus in difficult parts
very strong. Volunteerism is critical to their
of the world who deeply trust in God. It is
success and Ruby met a wide range of
my prayer that Carey’s faculty and campus
passionate people of all ages, with strong
so overflows with
support from the retired population and
confidence
young mums in particular. Like all the
and trust in
churches she visited their strengths came
God that our
through in consistent leadership, centrality
students cannot
of prayer in all things and a heart for the
help but graduate
gospel. Through passions of individuals,
making bold
the church is involved in the community.
decisions
For example in Rangiora, Esther Chivers
for Jesus.”
is retired but she has a passion for food so she runs a cooking demo and tasting class. Ruby says, “God is present in our communities and it was inspiring to see those who are partnering with Him reach(ing) out in compassion to see transformation of individual lives and neighbourhoods.”
14 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
in 2015 after a six-month sabbatical
FRESH EXPRESSIONS DEVELOPS Lindsay Jones and Phil Pawley are developing the Fresh Expressions movement in New Zealand. Lindsay, from Auckland Baptist Tabernacle and Phil, from Morrinsville Baptist Church, have been invested in the area of Fresh Expressions in recent years and are now both taking up specific roles alongside their pastoral responsibilities. Lindsay has been leading the Auckland interdenominational Fresh Expressions training team and is in conversation with the Tabernacle Trust and Craig Vernall about a two-day per week role of support, coaching and resourcing. Phil will be working one day per week for the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Association for the same purpose. Check out www.freshexpressions.org.nz for more information!
Ormiston Community Baptist Church is a new
Taupo Baptist Church
church start in South East
service.
100
YE ARS
AG O
recently had a celebration
Auckland. In 2014 they began networking with a Cambodian
Here is one of the stories that
house church that has been
was shared.
ministering to the local Cambodian community for many years and
“God has promised to be
now they are exploring a potential
a husband to the widow
partnership to craft a multi-cultural
and I have found Him to
faith community in the Flat Bush
be true to His promises.
A very successful united gathering was held in
area. Six people decided to be
The last six months have
the Tabernacle Young Men’s Bible Class Hall on
baptised recently and many people
been a time of change and
Sunday, December 13th Mr Bush, leader of the
from the Cambodian community
adaptation to a new set of
Tabernacle Seniors, presided. About 85 fellows
came to witness this special event.
circumstances for me since
were present, the suburban Classes joining in for
The church prays, “that several of
my husband of over fifty-one
the occasion. The speaker for the afternoon was
the Buddhist friends will read the
years died. But I thank the
Mr FN Andrews, ex-Deacon and past Sunday
literature that was given to them
Lord for his overwhelming
School Superintendent, and his topic was,
about Jesus and come to faith as
goodness to me. God has
“Can a successful business man be a
well. May their family members
provided me with a faithful
Christian?” Mr Andrews, who has had to do with
notice their changed lives as they
daughter, son in law and
young men all his life, as a fellow worker in the
grow in Christ and become curious
grandchildren. Also in my
great city of London, and as a principal in
about who this Jesus is!”
neighbourhood, he has given
New Zealand, bore testimony to God’s
me several lovely Christian
faithfulness to His promises, and gave some
friends to walk with and
very valuable advice based upon years of
The New Zealand Faith Community Nursing Association (NZFCNA)
have fellowship with. The
experience. Mr Andrews’ remarks were highly
Lord has provided me with
appreciated, and the discussion was taken up
everything I need and I daily
with zest. At 5 o’clock, tea was served,
conference was held in September
thank Him for truly being
Mr Hay Price, President of the local BC Union,
2014. NZFCNA is a national
a husband to me.”
occupying the chief seat at the feast. The Class
Christian organisation that equips
~ Anonymous
leaders were called upon, and responded with a
Men’s rally in Auckland
nurses to serve in local community.
motto text. A sacred solo was sung by
The focus of the conference was on
Mr Alf Maitland, the popular Secretary.
sustainability of practice. The Very
Mr Price read telegrams of greeting from Messrs
Reverend Charles Tyrrell (Patron of
A Hoby and Harry Wilson, Wellington, and the
NZFCNA and the Bishop’s Advisor
announcement that a camping ground had
for Care of Older People in the
been secured near Marton was received with
Nelson Diocese) emphasised that it
enthusiasm. The “character-building” talks,
is “hand in hand with God we serve
commenced earlier in the afternoon, were
his precious people” and reminded
continued over the tea-table. Mr JC Spedding,
the delegates that when someone
Deacon of the Tabernacle, spoke in an earnest
is inspired to a role, God is there to
and practical way upon the exhortation
guide them even in difficulty. Pastor
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it
Simon Alexander, from Te Awamutu
with thy might.” Mr Bush followed, basing his
Baptist Church spoke about how
remarks upon the well known Scriptures,
ministries should be in Jesus’
“Seek ye first the Kingdom of God,” and “Things
strength. Diane Webster, National
seen temporal; things unseen eternal.” Mr.
Liaison Coordinator of NZFCNA,
Heaton Barker expressed the meeting’s thanks
highlighted the need of support
to the speakers, but had been forestalled by
for nurses from peers, NZFCNA
the hearty applause which had followed each
and the church. The conference
address. The President announced a united
concluded with a service of
picnic with the Young Women’s Union, to be
commitment and each nurse was
held on Boxing Day, and a moonlight harbour
anointed with oil and blessed as
excursion for January 26th.
they were commissioned for their
__
ministry. See the full report online at
January 1915, Baptist magazine
baptistmag.org.nz
v.131 no.1 † 15
Baptist / Y
O U T H
UPSIDE DOWN AND INSIDE OUT Karen Mcallister is a youth pastor in Northland. Her story is a beautiful example of what can happen when God breaks our hearts for those around us.
Originally from Ireland, Karen moved over to New Zealand three years ago on a one year visa. She had always had a passion for youth ministry but had become burnt out to the extent that she didn’t think she would ever return to it. Yet this was not to be. When she arrived in New Zealand one Wednesday in 2011, she began volunteering as a youth leader at Doubtless Bay Christian Centre five days later.
A group in the church
was relating to the kids around her.
were talking about
So she started to try and love them
welcoming whoever
where they were, journeying with them.
comes through the door and as Karen
Head Change
replied, “yeah, yeah,
We all recognise that when you don’t
yeah,” another leader
eat properly or when there’s stuff going
turned to her and asked
on at home, it affects you and your
whether that included
interactions.
this particular young girl. Karen said, “God just
Karen told me the story of two boys
completely broke my
who the church community have been
Heart Change
heart for this girl. She came back the
journeying with. They’ve had a hard life
The young people that Karen meets can
next week and I started sharing. God
and a few in the church saw this. They
bring challenges. She told me the story of
totally changed the way I was speaking
decided to commit to paying the tuition
a young girl who came to the youth group;
and I started sharing about His love.
fees for the boys to go to
this girl was hard work and Karen struggled
I started crying and the first person to run
a local Christian school, have them over
to relate. She explains, “my heart was
up and hug me was her. This was just
for dinner once a week and take them
getting really hard towards her.”
God showing me that He had softened
out fishing at the weekend. “We like to
my heart to her and now we have
say we have eyes everywhere in our
an amazing relationship!”
community for these kids. We have a lot
So when this young girl decided to stop coming along to the youth group, Karen
of people out there who can see when
blamed herself. The next week was to be
Karen reflected that her relationship with
they mess up but we’re there to help
amazing however.
God had been based on morals rather
them when they do,” says Karen.
than love and that was therefore how she
One of the boys had an encounter with
16 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
“We like to say we have eyes everywhere in our community for these kids!” God and started going to a Bible study
I have for you...for a hope and a future).
TAK E
OUTS!
1. Are there people in your life who
to learn more of God. He is one of the
The content isn’t overtly Christian, but
apprentice leaders now and Karen notes,
because Karen is starting to become
your heart is hard towards?
“we’re seeing growth before our eyes.”
known in the community, there is
Take time to ask God to change
a natural draw for the kids to want to
your heart.
2. Are there some simple
They are thinking of calling this mentality
know more. She wasn’t sure how the
the ‘Village Ministry’ (as in the African
teachers would react, but they just keep
commitments you could make
proverb “it takes a village to raise
asking her to run it, term after term.
to those around you who might
a child”). It is such a simple idea, yet this investment is exactly what is needed.
be struggling?
The last three years have not been the easiest for Karen as she has struggled with
3. How could you share Jesus with them?
4. If this feels too hard on your own,
Being Intentional
homesickness and loneliness. She laughs
Some of the stories of those that
as she reflects, “I used to say, ‘I’ll have
could you partner with someone
Karen was involved with at the beginning
more time with God,’ but I didn’t really
in this?
of her time in New Zealand are heart-
mean it. It just sounded good! But now
breaking. God placed on Karen’s heart to
I truly can see the deepening of my walk
be intentional with the girls in the school,
with God. So it’s been really hard, but then
so she offered to run the Hillsong Shine
God’s turned it into something good.”
programme, a term-long course aiming to help girls understand their worth.
I love hearing how God transforms willing hearts to better love the world. Yet I am
It is based on three scriptures; Psalm 139
challenged to consider, how available do
(I am wonderfully made), Deuteronomy
I make my heart? Perhaps you are too.
30:19 (choose life, not death) and Jeremiah 29:11 (I know the plans
Story: Sarah Vaine
v.131 no.1 † 17
Baptist / C
U LT U R E
DIFFERENT FRAMES FOR THE PICTURE Reconciling the gospel with M ori culture
Throughout the world, the body of Christ relates to and worships Jesus in many different ways. The church in New Zealand, as in a number of places, is on a journey exploring what it means to follow Jesus in ways true to indigenous culture, in our case, M ori culture. David Moko explores this and explains Te Haerenga (The Journey), an initiative designed to facilitate this understanding. We also hear from Crystal Afualo who has been journeying this process herself. God’s work with tribal people When te reo M ori (M ori language) was structured into written form and the Bible translated, M ori found themselves in the Biblical story; God’s work with His tribal people. Within this story, the greatest example of God’s work amongst His people is the incarnation of Jesus, who dwelt among a people as a member of them. He looked like His people, spoke the language of His people and grew up in the tradition and stories of His people. Within the midst of His tribal identity, Jesus received the affirmation and affection of God His Father. When the gospel arrived in New Zealand, I believe God’s intent was not to remove the unique image of God found in M ori and our culture but to affirm our worth and offer clarity and further revelation of the God we knew through creation (Romans 1:19-20). Acts 17: 26-27 (ESV) reads, “He made... every nation... that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward Him and find Him. Yet He is actually not far from each one of us.” God relates with all people in every cultural context as He created each of us, so it follows that the gospel should be understood within culture, in this case, te iwi M ori.
18 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
Within the midst of His tribal identity, Jesus received the affirmation and affection of God, His Father
v.131 no.1 †19
Baptist / C
U LT U R E
The story so far
MY
STORY
Many M ori (as well as other indigenous people) have believed that to be
Crystal Afualo is part of the
Christian requires them to become like
Ngati Whatua iwi. She is married
European Christians. They have lived
to Mike and has five beautiful
a false dichotomy of belief that a fulfilled
children. Her heart for Jesus is
relationship with God in and through
an inspiration to those who know
Jesus requires rejection of their own
her and she told me a little of her
culture and the adoption of an alternative
journey around working out who
imperfect culture.
she is as a M ori Christian.
To be blunt, the traditional Christian
Crystal first came to follow
message that M ori have received
Christ through the witness of
has fallen short of speaking intimately
a church that was made up
and powerfully to M ori experience in
of predominantly M ori and
Aotearoa NZ. The received theology
Pacific Island people. Yet they
has not been couched in terms of
had adopted a western style
the concepts, imagery, language,
of church and in fact, cultural
theology and liturgy that speak to the
references were actively
core of who we are. So, in best-case
discouraged. Crystal explains,
scenarios, M ori have embraced God
“when I first came to Christ, I
but in the Christianity of the secular
thought I had to adopt
western culture and theology in which
a European style Christianity.”
they find themselves. In the worst case,
However, she felt a sense of unease.
they reject God in Christ because of
“I felt I wasn’t being true to who
The family have been trying to spend more
western Christianity’s perceived cultural
I was. I wasn’t the full person that
time at their marae. The interconnectedness,
requirements. We would observe from
God could use and I didn’t know
the sharing and the village mentality causes
our experience that M ori are crying out
where I belonged.”
Crystal to reflect that maybe, “this is what Heaven will be like.” The marae, she explains,
for a form of Christianity that is ‘theirs,’ one that is relevant to their concerns in
Ironically, it was when Crystal and
“is like church, but the M ori do life together
their context.
her family moved to a white, middle
better than a lot of Christians.” She reflects
class church that she felt able to
on a career night that the marae hosted. The
Hohourongo
explore who she was as a M ori
neighbourhood were invited to meet with
Hohourongo or Hohou Rongo
Christian. She laughs, “it was
representatives from all kinds of careers.
(reconciliation and restoration) is a key
an Englishman who invited us to
The kids were encouraged to look at their
concept in M oridom. It is a process
a lecture about what it meant to be
options, where they otherwise might not and
that has been present in New Zealand
an indigenous person and a follower
in this way the marae was being a “light in the
since before the arrival of the Europeans,
of Jesus.” Attending a lecture at
community.”
addressing the challenges of the human
Laidlaw in 2013 gave Crystal the
heart, will and spirit. For M ori, as all
encouragement she needed to start
She concludes, “We need to value what each
people, ihu Karaiti (Jesus Christ) can
exploring this for herself.
other can bring.” There is a richness in M ori cultural values and Crystal, along with
be Hohou Rongo; reconciling our past to the present and informing our future
Whilst she is still journeying this,
many others, would love the western church
behaviour as tangata whenua towards te
God is clearly working; “Christ
to embrace these. So again, it is asked, who
tapu o Atua (God), with tangata (people)
saved me as a M ori and my
will be part of this journey?
and whenua (land). We are all different,
husband as a Samoan. He can use
__
but our differences can strengthen us if
our heritage and past experience for
Story: Sarah Vaine
we allow ourselves to explore this. Will
His glory. We can understand why
you be part of this journey?
M ori might not trust the church
__
and we can identify with people
Story: David Moko
(within these cultures) and bring
David Moko is the Kaihautu of Baptist M ori Ministries.
God’s story. I would like to go back to Orakei, where I am from, not to change people with my agenda but to bring Christ so He can bring out what they already have.”
20 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
T E
H A E R E N G A
(T H E
JOURNE Y) TAKE
Te Haerenga is culturally relevant
mana whenua (local M ori). The marae is
discipleship specific to M ori. It provides
an extension of whanau community; it
teaching and understanding geared towards
provides a sense of belonging and therefore
discovering the fullness of who God has
a natural environment to experience God.
called M ori to be as part of God’s big story
Local insights provide the resources
and implementing that into everyday life.
for contextualized relationships and
OUTS!
1. How do you relate to God in your culture?
2. Would you like to explore this further? How could you do this?
3. Are there aspects of
conversations. For Te Haerenga participants,
this article which
It has been developed with regard for
these concepts are either learnt or already
challenge you?
tikanga (the ways things are understood
understood from a marae context.
Maybe you have shared the thought
and done), marae kawa (customs and procedures) and whakapapa (ancestory
Through this framework we find that the
that to be Christian
connections and stories), using te reo M ori
revelation and experience of God is more
means adopting a
(M ori language) at all levels.
accessible and relevant.
western culture. Spend time reflecting
Te Haerenga is a vehicle to reconnect
on and praying about
Tapu (awareness of self and environment)
M ori Christians previously disconnected
this. Ask God to lead
Aroha (showing love, affection and
from their culture, because of the influence of
The framework is viewed through the lens of: • •
compassion)
western thought and theology. It also seeks
you as you process this.
4. How many people
Pono (truth and integrity)
to reconnect other Māori (who may be more
do you know from
Tika (making the right responses)
familiar with their own culture) with God
other cultures
Mana (spirituality and authority)
and a Christian faith that embraces M ori
and what could you
cultural identity.
do to share stories
Practically, this has been explored with noho
__
and lessons with
marae (weekend gatherings on marae) of
Story: David Moko
each other?
• • •
v.131 no.1 † 21
Baptist / L
EA D E R S H IP
EMPOWERING STRENGTHS I caught up with Blue at Crave Café where he shared his thoughts about leadership in God’s Kingdom (and a few other nuggets of gold along the way).
Blue Bradley co-leads Mosaic church in Morningside, Auckland and is a member of the collective who established and now run Crave Café. He is also the camp director for the Northern Easter Camp, coordinating a weekend of organised chaos and the heart of Jesus for several thousand young people. Blue is passionate for people to understand and operate in their strengths and is a coach for StrengthsFinder® . He has also been elected to the NZ Baptist Assembly Council for 2014/15.
We want to share the story of Jesus by living alongside people. We don’t want to simply attend church in the area, we want to be the church in this area. We want to be here and available to speak the relevant words to those in our neighbourhood. You are clearly passionate about sharing the love of God with your neighbourhood. Where has that come from? Blue: I’m the eighth child in my family, with a pretty broken upbringing. Coming to Christ for me was out of necessity. I knew my life needed to change and I felt powerless to change it. I could see a picture of what my life was going to become without God and I didn’t want that to happen. I needed God to help me change and since then God has been healing my brokenness. A lot of my leadership has come out of my brokenness and the perspective that I’m not all that, it’s so not about me. I’m so broken that if anything
Blue, tell us about Mosaic Church and Crave Café.
good comes out of me it’s because of what God has done in me.
Blue: When I was training to be a pastor at Carey Baptist College, I felt God saying, “you’re going to be a different sort
So how do you lead in your setting?
of pastor.” My immediate response was, “why can’t I just
Blue: I continuously surround myself with people who are much
be ‘normal’?!” But I just really felt God was calling me to do
better than me at most things! (Laughs) So leadership in my
something different. I didn’t want to prescribe what that would
view, is influence, not positions and titles. We need positions
look like, so I spent a lot of time thinking about what church is.
and titles to create some functionality around leadership
I concluded it is about God working with and revealing Himself
because jobs need to be done, but if you need positions and
to people and for those people to love the world around them.
titles to lead then you may not be the leader you think you are!
I came across Nigel Cottle who had a similar heartbeat and
So a better question is how do I influence? This requires me
we saw a community that needed to be loved; Morningside,
to know who I am and then look for people who are different
Auckland. Here we found a place to live with big lounges for
from me to also lead. Some days I provide leadership because
hospitality and we opened up our homes to spend time with
I have something to offer that day and others follow. Other
people. Incidentally, the building had a café, so a small group of
days, people in our community lead and I ask where they want
us created Crave Café. We started cooking classes and salsa
the chairs stacked because they lead in that arena and I know
classes and just did whatever we could to become known.
nothing about it.
Continued on page 24.
22 † v.131 no.1 baptistmag.org.nz
PHOTO: ROBIN SMITH
“I continuously surround myself with people who are much better than me at most things!”
v.131 no.1 † 23
Baptist / L
EA D E R S H IP
I ask the question, “what do you love to do
I can’t change anybody,
in life?” Then I would encourage you to love
I can’t make anybody do
doing that thing, invite some people to do it
anything. All I can do is
with you and love them while you’re doing
offer a perspective, and
it. For example, I love camping so I went
share what God has
Closing thoughts
camping and invited the neighbourhood.
done in me.
Blue: People are God’s highest priority and
“We can’t expect a ‘leader’ to be a world class expert in everything”
Jesus served and loved with His life, so that
I love hunting so I invited people to come hunting. It’s real simple.
What does it look like practically for
is what we try to do.
you to be intentional about keeping We need to have realistic expectations
the focus on Jesus?
We don’t have all the answers but we want
of leaders. We can’t expect a ‘leader’ to
Blue: I’m a project person; I’m built to
to share the lessons we are learning. I live like
be a world class expert in everything. But
run 100mph and I find that’s when I hear
this because God has impressed something
also church should be a community where
God. But I know when I need to stop and
on my life, but the way we are living is not for
everyone is empowered to follow the
listen. I’m a seasonal person with rhythms,
everyone. So the question becomes what is
Spirit’s leading. I have to remember the way
although it’s a balance I don’t always
God calling you to do and what will you do
I think something should be done is never
get right. So Easter Camp is a season
about it? Consider how you can make time
more important than what God is doing in
of immense pressure and already I have
for others in your life who have no faith and
the hearts around me.
planned my bush time for afterwards. I need
be a genuine good friend. See what God
to walk in the hills far away from civilisation
might do through that.
You are obviously really involved
and surround myself with men who can
__
in your neighbourhood, but it can
speak into my life. We talk around the fire
Story: Sarah Vaine
sometimes be easy to do lots of good
about life and ministry and God. Then I do
things and lose focus on Jesus. How
something really cool with my family.
do you keep your eyes on Jesus? Blue: Jesus sustains everything. He is our
Does the pressure around Easter
reason, our purpose and the undergirding
Camp affect your family time?
of all the things we’re trying to do. It comes
Blue: There will be times when I miss
down to two things, “Love the Lord your
some meals around camp time, because
God with all your heart, all your soul, all
there’s so much going on. But one thing
your strength and all your mind” and “Love
I do is take my kids out on stage before
your neighbour as yourself.” If we take
camp and we sit down and say,
our eye off Jesus who sustains us, we
“imagine and dream about what God
can give ourselves to all the good causes
might do.” Then we pray for camp. After
around us, but they will rob our souls of
camp we get out on stage again and we
joy. I need to keep that in mind otherwise
just talk about the stories of what God
I’ll just become a great social worker doing
did. I try to bring my kids into why we do
really nice things for people, giving my ego
what we do. They want to engage, to tell
a stroke. The fact is, I can’t save anybody,
their stories.
24 † v.131 no.1
TAKE
OUTS!
1. How do you thrive in serving God and do you know when you need to stop and be with God?
2. Who can you encourage to step out in their strengths to share Jesus?
3. If you are a leader, take time to listen to the stories of what God is stirring in the hearts around you. Are there areas that you need to release to others who may be better than you in that particular area?
DI RE CTORY
TAB STUDENT APARTMENTS The Tab Student Apartments provides Christian based accommodation for young people studying in Auckland. For those living away from home for the first time, the Apartments are a place that provides a safe and secure environment ideal for that period between living at home and independent flatting. The Apartments are part of the Baptist Tabernacle Church’s ministry to young people. Please email tabhostel@xtra.co.nz for an information pack, or call Kara to arrange a visit 021 025 97042
REGIONAL MISSION LEADER NORTHERN REGION The Northern Baptist Association is looking to appoint a new Regional Mission Leader (RML). The Association is in an exciting new phase of development inaugurating an exciting new phase of church growth and new congregations through the encouraging and empowering of pastors and church leadership teams. This will be achieved through coaching of pastors and leading them in personal development plans, leading and training, or arranging training, of cluster leaders, church leaders and leadership teams. The new RML will lead a staff team of 6 part time coaches and a part time Administrator. The position is for 2.5 days a week. The role would suit a person with current in-depth pastoral involvement in NZ Baptist Churches. Personal strengths would be in influencing and strategic thinking. A history in training and coaching would be very desirable as would be experience in bi-cultural and multi-cultural settings. Candidates should email their expressions of interest to the Chairperson, Northern Baptist Association, at peterbrowningnz@gmail.com
SENIOR PASTOR Eastview Baptist Church is looking for a capable person to join as Senior Pastor. Eastview is a worshipping community of approximately 300 people, located in Botany, South East Auckland, a multi-cultural neighbourhood. We are looking for expressions of interest from experienced Baptist pastors who are willing to lead the church in line with its vision and goals. For an information pack please contact: eastviewpastorsearch@gmail.com
APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDING SOUGHT The Baptist Foundation is looking for funding applications from Baptist churches and organisations in the Northern Association region. The Foundation exists to support new and developing community ministries in the region and will look at applications for operational and, possibly, capital costs. Applications close on 31st March 2015. Details and an application form can be obtained from: foundation@baptist.org.nz.
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v.131 no.1 †25
Baptist / W O R
A
L D
W OR D
R E AC H
F R O M
R A C H E L
LOOKING BACK TO SEE FORWARD This year the New Zealand Baptist Missionary Society (NZBMS) turns 130. That’s 130 years of obedience to the call that God placed before New Zealand Baptist churches back in 1885 and 130 years of confidence that the mandate of that call has not been lifted. One of the original mission workers to South Asia was Hopestill Pillow, who served from 1889-1895. In this first edition of the new look Baptist magazine, we highlight her impact in that region, and the ongoing influence of her call on her sending church (Oxford Terrace). Fast forward 120 years and in the same region,
That is what happened to Abla*. The eldest daughter of a simple villager, Abla, was 13 years old when her father announced it was time she married. Abla’s family was poor and one less mouth to feed would benefit them all.
new work has begun. Freeset Fabrics oversees the production of scarves by a small group of
Abla’s father asked her if she liked any of the village boys.
women who have been offered freedom from
Of course she did, and she pointed one out. She even
the risk of being trafficked. The foundations
found herself looking forward to her wedding day and the
of the past continue to impact and benefit the
developing of her friendship with this young man.
development of the present and will do so into the future.
The day arrived. Her head covered by her wedding sari, young Abla – barely a teenager – looked into the eyes of
It’s challenging, it’s exciting and it’s encouraging
her bridegroom and was shocked. The eyes leering back
to see how God has honoured this commitment
at her were not the eyes of her young friend; they were the
of New Zealand Baptists. For over a century,
eyes of an older man.
New Zealand Baptists have been willing to say, “here I am Lord, send me,” while others have
The marriage went ahead and, as is local custom, Abla
said, “we will stand with those who go.” So,
was taken to live with her husband’s parents where life was
we continue to look to the future because we
dictated by her new mother-in-law. Anxious to create a good
believe God is not done yet. And if God is not
impression and uphold family honour, Abla tried desperately
done yet, then NZBMS is not done yet.
to please her husband and his mother but it wasn’t easy.
As we begin a new year and you enjoy the
Then things became worse. A few months into her new life,
stories here, we thank you for your support and
Abla was sent to a field. There she saw a group of young
simply ask, will you continue to stand with us?
men. They gathered around and looked at her threateningly
We pray you will.
before one spat out the words, “Your mother-in-law has
__
sold you to us for the afternoon. You are ours until we say
Story: Rachel Murray, General Director of NZBMS
you can go.”
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FREEDOM COMES TO MURSHIDABAD
Sometimes circumstances rob a young person of their childhood and force them to grow up too fast.
Gang-raped, Abla was filled with shame. That shame meant
Abla is part of the Freeset family also. Working in Kolkata, she’s
she could return neither to her family home nor to the home
46 years old now. She is also a woman of faith and vision with the
of her husband. Hiding on the outskirts of the field until dark,
largest smile and a burning desire to see women set free from the
she fled to her uncle’s house.
sex-trade. Her life transformation is an inspiration to others, a tangible hope for those still in line, and for those vulnerable in the village.
Her uncle took her in for a few days before sitting her down
__
and suggesting a new start. “Abla,” he said, “you have
Story: Annie works in Murshidabad helping women like Abla
brought shame on us all. It would be best if you leave the
find freedom
village. I will find you a job in Kolkata where you can begin a new life.”
* Not her real name.
The job her uncle – her own family – had in mind was prostitution. Abla’s new life was to stand in line and sell herself to strangers; men who, for a few rupees, robbed her of her childhood.
SUPPORT
OUR
W OR K
A significant number of the women who find freedom through Freeset in Kolkata come from the region
When people ask why Freeset is setting up businesses in
of Murshidabad.
Murshidabad, the answer is “Abla.” It is so Abla and girls like PHOTO: NZBMS (IMAGE NOT RELATED TO ARTICLE)
her can find freedom rather than be trafficked.
It seems logical to set up a business there to stop the trafficking to the city. Freeset Fabrics, the first Murshidabad
These days, just down the road from Abla’s village is
business, is up and running and offering freedom to young
a renovated movie hall. From inside comes the click-clack
women like Abla.
sound of shuttles speeding backwards and forwards creating beautiful fabric. The women working the looms smile and in
To find out more, and about how you can support our
their eyes can be seen glimpses of hope as new freedom
freedom work, email michelle.warner@marketplacers.co.nz
journeys begin. This is Freeset Fabrics, our latest freedom business. The word is spreading and more families are sending their daughters to ask for work. You see, where once there was fear, there is now hope.
KEEP UP TO DATE
with the work of our freedom businesses: Join Marketplacers on Facebook
v.131 no.1 † 27
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CONTINUES Recently, ten people from Oxford Terrace Baptist Church journeyed to Bangladesh and India to see first-hand the work of New Zealand Baptists.
Our motivation was two-fold. Firstly, it has been
Peter is a member of Tranzsend, the missionary sending organisation
many decades since this church sent anyone overseas
of NZBMS. Several years ago, Peter researched Hopestill’s life and
on mission service. A Global Mission Team is eager to reignite this aspect of our church life. Secondly, we are the sending church of Miss Hopestill Pillow, the second missionary of NZBMS.
found her grave. One Sunday, during our time in Kolkata, we met Peter and walked to the Christian cemetery with him. The cemetery is large and much of it is rundown. High brick walls enclose it giving the illusion of protection from the chaos that is Kolkata. The only reminder of the bedlam outside was the
Hopestill spent much of her time overseas in Brahmanbaria,
continuous soundtrack of beeping horns and rowdy crows. It is
an area that was then Indian but now a part of Bangladesh.
here that the body of this woman lies; a missionary who was sent
It was our desire to retrace part of her journey, to see the challenge
out by our church and gave all for what she believed in.
that motivated her and to be inspired for the next stage of our mission journey. You see, the commitment of missionaries like
Our intention in visiting the gravesite was never to venerate
Hopestill (and her companion Annie Newcombe) is truly inspirational.
Hopestill as some kind of saint (although it did cross my mind to
Their commitment was not short-term. In fact, neither was it
get a bone fragment to take back to Christchurch for our
long-term. It was commitment to the cause of the Gospel, full-stop.
historical relics display cabinet). This was for us a reaffirmation of
In just her sixth year in India, Hopestill fell ill. She never recovered.
our call to mission.
On May 28th 1895, Hopestill died in Kolkata.
She was one of the heroic pioneers... and ought not to be forgotten. 28 †v.131 no.1 nzbms.org.nz
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After spending two weeks observing what New Zealand Baptists are doing in Bangladesh and India, seeing some amazing things and meeting some amazingly passionate and dedicated people, to stand at this woman’s graveside brought a sense of
I N
R E ME MB RANCE
completion. Here was someone from our church family, an ordinary Christchurch person, with a passion for doing God’s work, who sacrificed all to bring God’s Kingdom to a foreign land.
In 1885, the New Zealand Baptist Missionary Society (NZBMS) was founded, the initial focus being on missionary work in India. Within months, the first
At the graveside we shared a few words. Peter told us Hopestill’s
missionary of NZBMS, Rosalie MacGeorge, a 26 year old
story and we listened to parts of Hebrews 11, adding Hopestill
teacher, left for Bengal.
to the list of heroes of the faith. On leaving Rosalie said she did not expect to return In the May 2002 edition of the New Zealand Baptist, Peter tells
to New Zealand but trusted she would be spared many
Hopestill’s story in detail. That article ends with these words,
years to labour in India. After just five years her health failed
“She was one of the heroic pioneers of our mission work in India
and she died in Colombo on her way home.
and ought not to be forgotten.” In 1889, two more women, Hopestill Pillow and Annie Visiting India and Bangladesh opened my eyes to the great things
Newcombe, went to India as missionaries. As we begin
New Zealand Baptists are doing in these (and other) nations. Despite
the 130th year of NZBMS, we want to remember and
being a Baptist for 23 years and a pastor for 11, I never realised the
honour Hopestill and other early Baptist missionaries.
depth of the life-transforming work that we are a part of. My hope
In late 2014, Mike Crudge (from Hopestill’s home church,
for Oxford Terrace is that we will be sending people to India and
Oxford Terrace, in Christchurch) visited Baptist work in India
Bangladesh again soon. Not just for a two week look, but for two
and Bangladesh.
months, two years, two decades... During our trip we kept a blog where a number of us wrote and uploaded photos as we went along: http://otbc2014trip.com __ Story: Mike Crudge Mike Crudge was Assistant Minister at Oxford Terrace Baptist Church for six years. He has a PhD in Communication Studies and blogs
PHOTOS: NZBMS
about church and society issues at www.mikecrudge.com
TAKE
OUTS!
1. Do you know the history of overseas mission work from your own church?
2. How could you go about finding out about this and be inspired to ask God, “what are you asking of me?”
FIND OUT MORE
about the work of Tranzsend: tranzsend.org.nz
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Glimpse is a team experience
“I was overwhelmed by the depth and need
designed to give pastoral leaders
for the work that our people are engaged
exposure to, and an understanding of,
in...(with) a fresh revelation that we need to
world mission. Giving a ‘glimpse’ of
do all we can from New Zealand to enable
Tranzsend’s wide range of activity
work to continue. Pastors need to go on a
in four countries across Asia, this trip will enable pastors
Glimpse trip to truly understand and grasp God’s mission in this world as it relates to them
to be better informed
and particularly the
about world
THREE MINUTES LEFT TO LIVE! A mission-themed, short film competition for New Zealand Baptist youth groups. This is the challenge the New Zealand Baptist Missionary Society (NZBMS) and Baptist Youth Ministries (BYM) are
communities that God
mission and their
has called them to. I
denominational
highly recommend
organisation.
this experience.” “Glimpse
~ Gary Grut,
transformed
National Team
my life. Having
Leader BYM
seen first-hand God’s work in the
We invite all pastoral
world through the
leaders to Glimpse 2015! June 20 - July 4 2015
staff of Tranzsend, my approach to global mission as
$5,000 each (includes everything!)
a pastor is far more passionate than
Note: registrations close February 23
it would have ever been otherwise.
With just 9 places book your spot now!
It’s a complete privilege that demands
For more info: email info@tranzsend.org.nz
a response.” ~ Mike Renner, Whitianga
or call us on 09 526 8444.
placing before your youth group and other youth groups across the country: make a short film that shows what you would do for God during your last three minutes on this planet.
OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE
We’re excited about the stories
NZBMS, through Mission World,
our youth groups will come
present the following opportunities to join with
up with and how they would
God’s mission in our world with one of our
tackle this one last, all important
strategic mission partners:
offer, plus the winning entry from each region will be played at Easter Camp!
• Teachers/Teacher trainers (South Asia) with Tranzsend: English medium schools (primary and secondary levels) • Finance managers (PNG, Australia and East Africa) with MAF:
If you’re part of a Baptist youth group that’s keen to get creative,
lead a venture serving as a training model • University student ministry (Chile) with SIM: during semester and summer breaks. • Veterinarian (Central Africa) with WEC:
mission for God. There’s a pretty amazing grand prize on
• Poultry farmer (Central Asia) with WEC:
Financial management oversight • Product designer (South Asia):
work amongst nomadic people • Marketing manager (Cambodia) with Interserve: in an organisation working to keep young men in education • Relief guest house manager (Philippines) with OMF: preferably for 12 months • Performing artists and support crew
check out www.bym.org.nz for
stationery business seeking product input
(West Asia) with WEC: creative arts
all the details!
for export markets
outreach.
• Maintenance Supervisor (South Asia) Entries close March 15, 2015.
30 † v.131 no.1 nzbms.org.nz
with Tranzsend: development and ongoing
To express an interest call 09 526 8446
maintenance of a freedom business
or email info@missionworld.org.nz
BAPTIST
LEAD CONFERENCE
Passionate About Church
22-24 June 2015 | Wellington
Main Speaker Craig Vernall, Baptist National Leader “Leading in a Kiwi Culture” “Lead” is a new Baptist conference designed to inspire our church leaders for their unique calling. This is not just for pastors, but for all who take up the task of leading within the Christian Church. This conference will challenge and inspire you and will continue the task of equipping you for the high calling of being a servant leader in today’s changing world.
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