The qb, the voice of Queensland Baptists

The voice of Queensland Baptists October 2010

Church trends Alphabet soup kids We will run together Print post approved ISSN: 11323-7829 The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890.

This series Vol 8 Issue 5.

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Contents

In this issue

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05 06 08 38 40 42 42 44 46

QB ministries

10 13 14 16 14

Comment: David Loder Speaking out: John Sweetman Around the regions Persecution brief Reviews Called home Quotable quotes Fun zone Classifieds

18 23

Risk: Gospel to the globe (QB Youth) Hope for kids (QB Kids) Fondly remembered by all (QB Archives) Broader horizons (QCCC) She is...

(QB Women) QB partners

20 21 27

Be open-handed (BWAA) Time for the third (Global Interaction) Articles

22 27 29

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28 29 30 31 32 34 35 36 39

Shed happens Global Baptists ‘Hear the Spirit’ (BWA) Refined, not defined We will run together!

Sharing God’s love Goal met, job done Alphabet soup kids A welcome break Our great south land Grasp the hand that moves the world Shift 2010

Our cover: Happy faces at She is… Day Conference, Gaythorne, August 2010.

www.qb.com.au The qb OCTOBER 10

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News, views and issues

From the Editor Now that the outcome of the Federal Election is known, we watch with interest to see how the government will function, given the extraordinarily close result. It’s comforting to know that as we committed the process to God, and now as we follow events as they unfold, we stand secure in the firm knowledge that he, and only he, is in control of our country, and our world. The words of Pedro Fernandez de Quiros when he claimed Australia and its surrounding regions for Jesus Christ (Our Great South Land) are a timely reminder that as well as our assured destiny as Christians, we have an unshakable Christian heritage that we must remember and celebrate.

John Sweetman continues his thoughtful series (Church Trends) in this issue. We are blessed that John, and others like him, will spend time, prayerfully considering and commenting on important issues for the church. Church life, like life around us, is changing rapidly, and we need to change too if we want to be relevant in our communities. Programs like Men’s Shed (Men step up) are providing outstanding opportunities for men to heal and become all that God intended. When you read Elissa Macpherson’s observations (Beyond doilies and recipes) you catch a glimpse of how important it is that our men find their identities in Jesus Christ. Elissa is this year’s keynote speaker at the very successful She is… events for women. I encourage you to take the time to read her article; her comments are valuable. And if you’re a woman, put everything on hold to attend next year’s She is… events. You will not be disappointed!

There is so much for you to enjoy in this issue: articles about children, youth, overseas mission and more.

God bless!

Robynne Milne

The qb is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association, published bi-monthly by Queensland Baptist Services Group in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Editor: Robynne Milne Advertising contact: Robynne Milne Design: Shell Graphix Print: Fergies Print & Mail This magazine is printed with soy based inks and paper from sustainable forest plantations.

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ISSN: 11323-7829

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Comment

LIVING WITH THE SHEPHERD ‘I am the good shepherd, and the good shepherd gives up his life for his sheep’ (John 10:11).

If you were to describe your personality using an animal as a metaphor, which animal would you choose? Which animal would others choose for you, and which animal would God think of when he thinks of you? The answer is clear – sheep!

what encountering God is all about – laying aside the seductions of this world and walking with Jesus, the Good Shepherd, being known by him, and growing in our knowledge of him.

John 10 is an important passage of Scripture with some well rehearsed and memorised verses for many Christians. Living it out is more challenging!

We rightly appreciate the comfort of having the Good Shepherd tend our needs and look out for us. He guards, guides and leads his sheep. Many are the cunning thieves and strangers who come our way. And seductive too! Not only does the Good Shepherd need to keep them away from us, but us away from them also.

Following Jesus John 10:4 reads, ‘He walks in front of them, and they follow, because they know his voice’. Two challenges provoke our thinking. Firstly, how well do we know the voice of Jesus? Are we students of the Word of God allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to us through the passages we read, the sermons we hear and the studies in which we participate? Secondly, what about the issue of obedience? It is one thing to know the Word of God; it is another to walk in obedience. There is no alternative for Queensland Baptists.

Perhaps most importantly, the Good Shepherd knows his sheep.

He does not simply ‘know about’ his sheep; He actually knows them – individually and intimately. So much so that by walking in his footsteps, his sheep live life, and live it to the full! That’s

David Loder General Superintendent, Queensland Baptists gs@qb.com.au

...by walking in his footsteps, his sheep live life, and live it to the full!

I attended the Baptist World Congress in Honolulu in July. Attendance was lower than usual with only about 4000 people present. More than 1000 people were refused visas because of the USA’s strict policies, the Global Financial Crisis seemed to affect some, plus Hawaii isn’t the cheapest place to reach from the other side of the world. Nevertheless, Baptists from around the world gathered and worshipped, prayed, studied, learned together etc. Seeing and hearing other cultures/languages at prayer and worship is fascinating – it broadens one’s thinking on Christian (and Baptist) expressions of our faith. Preachers from Argentina, Jamaica, Canada, India, Australia (Allan Demond) Africa and the USA were at the main sessions with numerous others from around the world participating at other levels. If ever you get the opportunity to attend a Congress, take it! The next one, in five years’ time will be held in Durban, South Africa. This Congress was my last as a delegate for the Baptist Union of Australia so I will no longer be attending the Annual Gatherings of the Baptist World Alliance. DL L-R: Stephen Ball, David and Ann Loder and Warren Crank

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Speaking out

Church Trends John Sweetman’s series continues. In stressing that his comments are personal impressions not necessarily supported by objective evidence, John notes, ‘I am attempting to observe, not critique’.

In the last issue, John discussed: 1. Churches and pastors are beginning to think ‘kingdom’ more than ‘church’.

2. The American influencers of the Western church are changing.

In this issue, we consider points three and four.

3. The renewal movement has waned.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the third wave spiritual renewal movement touched many Queensland evangelical churches. It was called the ‘third wave’ because it followed two so-called ‘waves of the Spirit’. The first wave was Pentecostalism leading to the birth and growth of Pentecostal churches. The second wave was the charismatic movement leading to openness to the spiritual gifts (especially tongues, prophecy and healing) in charismatic, mainline churches. The first two waves had limited positive impact on Queensland evangelical churches.

But the third wave or renewal movement, largely associated with John Wimber and Vineyard, was influential in many evangelical churches. It did not emphasise baptism in the Spirit and speaking in tongues (emphases of the first two waves), but focused more on the presence and power of the Spirit in worship and ministry. Characteristics of renewal churches tended to be extended worship, waiting on God, sensing God’s presence, brokenness, power, holiness, spiritual warfare, healing, prophecy, the miraculous, deliverance, prayer ministry, and an expectation of revival.

Renewal churches believed that all the spiritual gifts remained available today and that they needed to be practised. Some churches were opposed to the movement and many were cautious, but quite a few churches became expectant of the Holy Spirit’s power at work.

While there are still pockets of healthy, Spirit-focused enthusiasm and most churches are now more open to the work of the Holy Spirit, the intense renewal era has generally abated. Its emphases of seeking the Spirit, overcoming Satan, experiencing the Spirit’s power, and being personally renewed by the Spirit in worship have waned in churches.

I have also found that the longing for and expectation of God’s intervention through revival is not mentioned as frequently in churches as it used to be.

The implications of this waning of the renewal movement are hotly debated. Some maintain that it is a good thing. They point out that the

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The qb OCTOBER 10 www.qb.com.au

Conversely, others contend that the waning of the emphasis on renewal is a deep loss to the church. To them the church is moving away from its holy heart and is becoming more human-centred, world-oriented and secular, and therefore less sensitive to the Holy Spirit and obedient to God. The Western church is oblivious to the spiritual warfare in which it is engaged. It is a sign of the church being engulfed by the culture it is meant to transform.

A third possibility is that the focus on renewal was a healthy season in which we learned much about the Spirit and his work, but now the season has changed for many churches. We learned (at least in part) the important lessons of Spiritled renewal, and have now been called

by God to move on to other vital biblical emphases for the church that we were neglecting.

4. The emerging church has only emerged as an option.

out. A few gained some momentum and continue to serve their communities. No-one ever expected every emerging church to succeed, but the lack of long-term traction of these forms of church challenged the assumption that this was clearly the path to effective ministry in our postmodern society; especially when many traditional, attractional churches still seem to be making headway in growing disciples and influencing communities.

Speaking out

promised (almost guaranteed) revival never came to Australia despite all the waiting and believing and they argue that the renewal movement put too much emphasis on personal spirituality rather than on commitment to serving the community. It made Christians too introspective.

Some supporters of the missional church continue to propagate the model as the essential panacea for a doomed and dying church.

Some are now more cautious.

They see it as a model whose time will come as antagonism to, and frustration with, the church grows in our society. Others now view it as a necessary option that will reach some groups in society, but probably not the majority.

There is a recognition that we need a wide variety of churches if we are to impact our community. No one form has all the answers.

In the early 2000s, a wave of mostly younger leaders began to talk with enthusiasm about the emerging or missional church. It seemed that the traditional church was making little ground and was becoming more irrelevant to a postmodern culture that was rejecting institutions but searching for spirituality.

To the new missional breed, the traditional church had a number of fatal flaws. First, it was attractional. In other words, it was centred in buildings and programs and asked new people to abandon their community networks to join the church network. Second, it was institutional. It was full of systems and structures that were inflexible, mostly irrelevant, and that demanded huge investments of resources and energy to maintain. Third, it was irrelevant to most people in the community who viewed the church with bewilderment or even disdain. Fourth, it served the insiders (usually middle-class, educated and conservative) and had no heart for anyone who was different.

So people dreamed of a new, emerging form of church that was built on relationships, had few programs, served communities wherever they were, set people free to follow Jesus, and was open to all strata of society. This was a time of excitement among missional leaders. The traditional, attractional church model was clearly defunct. It appeared that the emerging forms of church would lead us into a new era of effective mission and ministry to our community.

Most proponents of the missional church are now working more closely with leaders of other church models. There is a recognition that we need a wide variety of churches if we are to impact our community. No one form has all the answers.

My comments here only apply to the Queensland scene. Victoria has pursued the model more vigorously and has more at stake. The missional churches there are possibly more likely to make headway. Alan Hirsch (an Australian and a leading proponent of missional church) is now beating up a storm for this model of church in the USA. Maybe the entrepreneurial American approach to church will help establish the model more robustly.

John Sweetman Principal, Malyon College John.sweetman@malyon.edu.au This series on Church Trends will continue in future issues of The qb, where John will discuss: 5. Worship services are very similar in most churches.

6. We’re doing mission more effectively overseas than at home.

7. Barriers between churches are diminishing.

8. Commitment to church service attendance is decreasing.

View this article online at www.qb.com.au

Like to think?

Check out www.neoleader.org

There was considerable experimentation on forms of church, with different types of missional churches emerging. Some never really got off the ground. Some worked for a while but then petered

www.qb.com.au The qb OCTOBER 10

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Around the regions Vanessa, Melody, Ben and Robinah prayer walk around Annerley.

Praying the blessing of God Here’s an outstanding idea that could be replicated in your church if you’re not already doing something similar.

Community Prayer Walk Sunday is a monthly event that commenced at Annerley Baptist Church at the end of 2009. After morning worship, on the second Sunday of each month, the congregation goes out in groups of two and three into the local neighbourhood to pray the blessing of God into businesses, households and individual lives. After their walk they return to the church for a BBQ lunch.

As people walk and pray, they seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit as to where to place a copy of the Challenge Newspaper as a gift from the church.

This month the team will also distribute an invitation to an international food experience and movie to be held on Saturday 6 November.

Random acts of kindness hit Gladstone At the end of August, Christians from three denominations came together for the Love Gladstone Region project.

Through random acts of kindness across the region, they demonstrated to their community that God’s love is free. Easily identified by distinctive Love Gladstone Region T-shirts, participants shared God’s love by providing services such as washing windscreens

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and cars. They gave away chocolates, drinks and balloons, painted faces and provided BBQ sausages for hungry skaters.

The project was launched on Friday night with a combined churches’ worship and prayer service at Gladstone Baptist Church. On Saturday, groups carried out their chosen acts of kindness and handed out special calling cards. The event wrapped up on Sunday night with a celebration and personal testimony evening at the Shed 19, Churches of Christ. The community was very appreciative and receptive with some saying that it was time someone publically declared that people in the Gladstone Region are worth loving.

Love Gladstone Region will be back in 2011 with more ideas for ways to bless the community in Jesus’ name.

Visit www.lovegladstoneregion.org.au for the latest information.

The qb OCTOBER 10 www.qb.com.au

L-R: Josh McGinty (Associate Pastor), Keith McKinnon (Chaplain), Jireh Scheurwater (Children’s Pastor)

Transformers Three men from Cairns Baptist Church have embarked on a mission. Josh, Keith and Jireh are facing their biggest personal challenge yet - to become fit and healthy. By taking up this challenge over 14 weeks from early August, they plan to undergo a transformation that will leave them changed and with less weight on their shoulders! Every kilo lost means more funds to support Keith’s ministry as Cairns State High School Chaplain. The challenge is also open to the whole church family.

God has a plan for the people on his team During the last school holidays, a team from Stafford Heights Church helped the Tent Hill Baptist Church conduct a week-long kids’ holiday club program.

Around the regions

Up to 55 children came each day to sing, do craft, join in games, be entertained by puppets and learn about the plan God has for the people on his team.

Several of the older children designed model racing cars to compete against each other at the end of the week.

At the conclusion of the program, families gathered for a BBQ and to be entertained and taught by their children as they presented what they had learned. This was an excellent opportunity to connect with many families in the community and to build on connections made with families in other ministries of the church. It was also good to see the influence of older children and young people on the group, and to see three of the young people recently baptised.

This is the third year Stafford Heights has assisted in this holiday program.

It reflects a major part of their commitment to partner with Tent Hill in reaching out to the Lockyer Valley community. Other past events have included outreach and fundraising for school chaplaincy at the Gatton Show and assistance with community carols. Pastor Iain Russell commented that the church is grateful to God, and the Stafford Heights church, for the opportunities for ministry that have resulted from this partnership.

A big vision Raelene Robinson, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator, Rockhampton writes: We had a vision that our biggest mission field was in our own backyard.

Here we have thousands of children who need to hear the Word of God. How could we go about it? We already had fabulous volunteers but they could cover only a small part of this vast mission. We needed paid RE teachers to go into existing school classrooms (where children are supervised in similar age groups) and we needed schools that were willing to allow a teacher to go from class to class to teach an ecumenical RE lesson.

When we have a vision for something bigger than we could possibly achieve in our own strength, God steps in and opens the door.

How could we raise the money?

If churches in the community worked together to provide volunteers with time to do RE, and pay other RE teachers to work full days, every child in our community would have the opportunity to hear the gospel. If 100 people or businesses gave $10 per week, another 1500 children would hear the gospel of Christ every week during the school year.

What did I do?

My preparation and the favour of God. I approached schools and asked if they would allow a teacher to go from

class to class, like a music teacher, to teach RE. The Principals said ‘yes’. I asked the church if they could be the employing authority. They said ‘yes’.

The church applied to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) to set up an RE Public Fund and get approval for Deductible Gift Recipient status, making donations to the Fund tax deductible.

The ATO said ‘yes’ and the Christian Religious Education Public Gift Fund Rockhampton Area came into being.

Then we: went to churches and people donated; advertised through churches for RE teachers; interviewed them; watched them teach a group of children; employed suitable applicants and discussed timetables with school staff. From there it just flowed, and has continued to flow and grow, for the last four years.

The RE Fund presently employs six paid part time teachers who take the Gospel to more than 2200 children in and around Rockhampton each week (in 11 schools with RE available for all children). Volunteers reach a further 700 children. RE is like Sunday school to these children. Praise God the door is open!

Raelene would be happy to speak at other churches in Queensland about what is happening in Rockhampton and to help them establish a similar program. To contact Raelene, or for more information about the program, contact Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle, phone 4926 9669 or email office@rockybaptist.org.au

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Around the regions Monsters at Chuwar ‘A city set on a hill cannot be hidden nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket’ (Matthew 5:14-16).

What an amazing day! 9000 people visited the Chuwar Baptist Church property when it staged a family friendly carnival called the CBC Street Party. Lots of prayer and planning went into the event which was supported by the Rivers of Life Church who own the Drive-In just down the road. The street party went from noon till 7 pm.

There were major rides, bands, stalls, Monster Trucks and fireworks. Face-

painting was a big hit with all the little guests and there were plenty of free prize draws and sample bags. 1000 New Testament Bibles were distributed and only three were found discarded after the event. The local police were amazed at how the crowd moved on and off the church’s five acre property.

The church congregation wanted to raise their profile in the community and they hoped to begin an event that the community would look forward to every year. They began with prayer and then worked hard while they continued to pray. ‘All things are possible’ took on new meaning because they are

a small group, but they know they serve an awesome God. Pastor Jay Beatty reported that the church is very appreciative of the support received from Rivers of Life Church and also thankful to Stafford Heights Baptist Church for their kindness and service on the day. The church plans to continue to promote its programs and message and build on this year’s success at next year’s CBC Street Party.

Saturday 29 January – Friday 11 February   Mrs Robi O’Keeffe

 

an advanced Toastmaster trainer for 15 years

Dr Don Hardgrave Pioneered and pastored churches over the last 30 years

  Rev Dr Stan Solomon

    

 

Rev Dr Stan Solomon former General Superintendent of Queensland Baptists, and former Senior Pastor

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Around the regions

Lollies Galore Bracken Ridge mentors in training.

Mountain chappies benefit Each year, QCCC Tamborine sponsors a fundraising dinner for Scripture Union chaplains on Mount Tamborine. There are four chaplains spread across three schools on the mountain. This year’s dinner was held in the dining hall at the WEC Centre, one of three complexes at QCCC Tamborine.

140 people, the largest crowd yet, came for an enjoyable evening and good food. Diners were entertained by the local school orchestra and later, a band. They heard about the work of the chaplains on the mountain and listened to some of the kids who had been given hope, often in dire situations, by the chaplaincy service. There was a buoyant mood in the room after the previous week’s announcement from the Australian Labor Party that, if elected, they would extend a further three years of funding to chaplaincy in schools. The Liberal Party had made a similar commitment, so for the short term chaplaincy enjoys bi-partisan support and some certainty and stability. The videos and stories on the night were a strong testament to the

Up through the ranks.

benefits of chaplaincy in our schools.

It’s not uncommon for teenagers to get themselves into difficult situations and often the chaplains are the first, or perhaps only, people they can turn to. The availability of chaplains is a precious gift to our schools. More than $5000 was raised from the event.

Lollies galore!

As well as being Mt Isa’s water supply, Lake Moondarra is a very popular recreation area.

On Sunday 15 August, Mount Isa Baptist Church held their annual Church Family Picnic by the lake, beginning with lunch together. Following lunch there were organised foot races, three legged races, flag races, sled and wheelbarrow races, with real wheelbarrows, and a colouring-in competition. The highlight of the afternoon was the lolly man and lolly lady and the picnic concluded with afternoon tea. More people attended than in previous years and it was good to see so many contributing in different ways. It was a great afternoon of fun and fellowship.

South Pine Church believes that God has given them a vision to invest in the younger generation of emerging leaders, giving them opportunities to serve and learn under the guidance of experienced leaders. Stephen’s ministry is an example of this vision being realised and he has a passion to see this continue through opportunities like the church’s internship scheme.

It is the church’s aim to ‘Win, Build, Send’ - enabling, encouraging and investing in young leaders over many years so that they are equipped for the ministries God has planned for them.

Meeting people on their own turf Each September the Beaudesert Baptist Church offers visitors to the Beaudesert Show a place to put up their feet and enjoy a moment’s rest. A nice hot cuppa and home cooked biscuits are on offer as well in the ‘Tent of rest’.

Up through the ranks South Pine Community Church (Eatons Hill) officially welcomed Stephen Meharg into the role of Senior Pastor recently. Stephen and his wife Kristy, long term members at the church, had faithfully served in various ministries before entering fulltime ministry.

Stephen’s previous roles include associate pastor and youth pastor.

It’s a popular part of the show that welcomes people of all ages and from all walks of life. Pastor Josh Cocks said, ‘This is a great opportunity to serve the local community, to minister the love of Christ and to connect with people

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Around the regions Wendy Francis enjoys a welcome cuppa.

on their turf. It is a non-confrontational approach, but we don’t hide who we are. A lot of people are looking for “the catch”, but there just isn’t one.’

This year over 260 people stopped for a cuppa, 250 free show bags were distributed and the Gideons handed out 64 Bibles. There were opportunities for some great conversations with people.

Many of them were hurting, others needed encouraging in their Christian walk and still others were genuinely seeking after God. ‘It is great to see the church work together in this ministry,’ Pastor Josh added. ‘There are many people involved; some cook, others serve, some give financially, others pray. We all come together to let the light of Jesus shine through our lives. It is well worth the effort!’

Bayside turns 40!

Men seek a closer walk

BAPTISMS

On the evening before Father’s Day, 40 men gathered at the Leichhardt-One Mile Community Centre for a Father and Son Dinner. Pastor Jay Beattie from Warrego Regional Baptist Church gave a challenging message and a large number of those present responded to the call to seek a closer walk with the Lord Jesus in their daily lives.

We praise God for these newly baptised believers.

On Father’s Day, the Men’s Ministry Director, Max Littleford, led the Worship Service and the congregation was delighted by the children from Children’s Church who sang. Guest speaker, Rev. Andrew Otte from Laidley Baptist Church based his message on John 3:16, drawing out these main points: God loves us; God gave His Son Jesus for us; we must believe in Him and, we will have eternal life. The message was simple and the congregation was challenged to share it with others.

Kruger Parade: Mayowa Adeniyi Lolade Adeniyi

Tent Hill: Natasha Dorr Christian Neumann Caitlyn Russell

North East: Xanthe Inglis Andrew Mills Jenny Mills Russell Mills

The Gap: Adam Goode Clayton Martin

Sunnybank District: Da-Ren HUANG Jun TAN Chun-Lan LIU Chuan-Sheng LI Long QI Ya XIN Meng-Meng ZHANG

QB youth

With many missionaries becoming ‘full of years’, the question is: who will Jesus Christ call out of the emerging generation to take his gospel to the globe?

The first RISK rally (27 August) gathered youth groups from across Brisbane for an inter-church event to promote global missions and the call for all young believers to take their place in spreading the gospel to the globe. With 35+ mission organisations, 11+ youth groups, 250+ youth, a live worship band, missions forum, sugar, supper and activities, as well as our very own Mark Westhuyzen bringing the call of the gospel, the night was set to explode. Our hope? That Jesus would place his hands on individuals and stir their hearts for local and global mission. We were not disappointed.

The atmosphere grew more intense as the night went on and as the desire to worship Christ and spread his message became loud and clear. We journeyed through worship, prayer, hearing mission stories, meeting missionaries and engaging with mission organisations, being challenged by the gospel and a call to gospelcentred life and we finished with an opportunity for response. The true fruit of the night will be seen in the days, months and years to come as Jesus finishes what he started that night. The youth were united; engaged; challenged; passionate. And as this was the first of what we hope will be many combined events on Brisbane north-side, we are sure to see greater stirring and encouraging in the future. With discipleship, training, encouragement and sending, the future is growing brighter for the great commission. Please stand with us in prayer. These youth need godly mentors of all ages to look up to, be inspired by, and to disciple them.

One thing is for sure. The gospel of Jesus Christ is spreading amongst the ranks of our youth. Their stories will reverberate into the pages of history and events like these are the catalyst that Jesus often chooses to use.

RISK: Gospel to the Globe ... youth need godly mentors of all ages to look up to, be inspired by, and to disciple them.

Dan Paterson Youth Director, Ashgrove Baptist Church

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QB kids

Hope for QB kids Team member, Ruth Peckman, spoke with Diane Barrie, Kids Hope Aus. Coordinator at Birkdale Baptist Church.

s d i k

What is Kids Hope?

Kids Hope Aus. is a World Vision program aimed at creating a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable Australian children and their families. It’s a mentoring program built on a long-term partnership between local churches and primary schools, where a caring adult from the church spends one hour each week with a child.

Why did Birkdale Baptist get involved?

Our local school, Birkdale South State Primary, heard about Kids Hope Aus. from other schools and asked their chaplain to find out if their nearest church would like to get involved in the program.

Why did you get involved?

Good question! I’d been working in local schools with Religious Education, Prayer Groups and SUPA club for many years and was asked by the church leadership if I would like to coordinate Kids Hope Aus.

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First batch of mentors trained at Birkdale Baptist

to give these children the time and individual attention they need. As a result, teachers and administration staff are more and more appreciative of the time we can give to mentor the children.

Since talking with Ruth, Diane has sent the following encouraging news:

What impact has the mentoring had on the kids?

In the first couple of weeks, the mother of a child being mentored made an appointment to tell the Deputy Principal that the program had made a difference in her family. This mum does not usually venture into the school. Most of the time, the changes have been slower however. As children have connected with mentors they have become happier, more confident and better able to connect with other children, and they feel valued.

Last term, the hardest thing that happened ended up being the most exciting! One day, James (mentor) and I were called into the Deputy Principal’s office to be told that Tony (one of the children James was mentoring) had left the school for six weeks and would probably never return. James and Tony had become best mates over the past two years. Because of the way Kids Hope Aus. works, contact between mentor and child ceases if the child leaves the school. We sat in the office in total shock...James had not had a chance to talk with Tony or even say goodbye. We prayed that God would bring this boy back to school; otherwise the situation looked hopeless to us.

What does the school think about it?

With the growing demands placed on dedicated teachers these days, they find it increasingly difficult

The next six weeks seemed to go on forever then we were officially notified by the school that Tony was now attending another school, just which school was

The qb OCTOBER 10 www.qb.com.au

unknown. Even if the school was known, James could not see him there as a mentor. School staff suggested that perhaps James could write a goodbye letter to Tony and they would do their best to get it to him.

Later that day, the Deputy Principal rang to say that the Principal from the school Tony was now attending had phoned to ask, ‘Who is this James person? Is there any way he could come to see Tony?’

Our God is so good! He was working in Tony’s life before James started mentoring him and he hadn’t stop working out his plan. James went to visit Tony and told him about Kids Games at our church during the school holidays. Tony said he’d love to come. We could not have imagined the hard time Tony’s family was experiencing, but it became apparent when we collected him on the first day of Kids Games. The family was so glad Tony had something fun to do in the holidays.

As the week progressed, Tony started asking questions about God and James was able to tell him about Jesus and his great love for Tony.

We are reminded and encouraged again about God’s love, not only for this precious boy but also his family.

James continues to be invited into this school as a special friend to Tony. God continues to work out his plan.

Learn more about Kids Hope Aus.

http://www.worldvision.com.au/ourwork/ solutions/KidsHopeAus.aspx

QB kids and their families, email qbkids@qb.com.au or visit www.qb.com.au

City Tabernacle Baptist Church 163 Wickham Terrace Brisbane

presents

Saturday 11 December @ 7.30pm

Sunday 12 December @ 6.30pm

Be inspired by this moving presentation of Handel’s Messiah excerpts and join in the triumphant Hallelujah Chorus finale.

The Sinfonia of St Andrew’s and guest soloists will join with a gathered Tabernacle Choir.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE PART OF THE CHOIR PLEASE CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE NO LATER THAN 18 OCTOBER For further information contact: City Tabernacle Baptist Church Office Telephone: 3831 1613 Email: office@citytabernacle.com.au Website: www.citytabernacle.com.au

QB archives

Fondly remembered by all

ool

day Sch

on Sun t a Deag Group a e 1920s. th picnic in

Deagon Mission Church in the early 1920s.

When the Deagon Mission Church closed down in 1993 most of the church’s documents were lost. However, one of the members (Mrs Valerie Klauke) wrote down the main aspects of the church’s history, and this material formed the basis on which a more complete history has been written. The following is a brief history of the church prepared from Valerie’s historical notes, The Queensland Year Books, Minutes of the Sandgate Church, and other sources.

The Deagon Mission Church was established as an outpost of the Sandgate Baptist Church. Separate services were first held in Deagon at the home of Mrs J C Jarvis in 1918. Before the end of that year, land had been purchased and a church building erected at the corner of Blackwood Road and Adams Street, Deagon. The church was initially known as ‘Deagon Mission Church’ and, being the only church in Deagon, its congregation came from a variety of denominational backgrounds. To this day, quite a few people and some publications, refer to it as an ‘interdenominational church’. But it was always a Baptist Church.

Although the church’s congregation averaged around fifty, membership was never much larger than twenty.

Despite this, the enthusiasm of the church’s supporters and the dedication of its leaders kept it viable for 75 years.

The church was built and equipped by its supporters. For instance, the organ was purchased with funds raised from the sale of jam made by the women of the church, and as a result the organ was often referred to as the ‘Marmalade Organ’.

Two men in particular provided the church’s leadership from 1918 up to the early 1980s. The first was the first Church Secretary George Mead (1872-1942). The church was established under Mead’s leadership and by the time of his death in 1942 it had become the only Christian presence in Deagon. His son-in-law, Albert Horn, took over as Church Secretary from 1943-1982.

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Historic al plaqu es Waters Baptist C in the Agnes hurch.

Both men placed considerable emphasis on the work of the Sunday School and both served as its Superintendent for many years.

The church’s Sunday School had up to 15 teachers and 99 scholars in the 1920s and 1930s, and although the numbers diminished in later years (the last official figures available indicated there were five teachers and 44 scholars in 1970) the little church was responsible for giving the Christian message to hundreds of children in Deagon and the surrounding area.

In the early 1980s a large prefabricated multi-purpose building was constructed on the church grounds and the cost (around $75,000) was met by the church’s congregation and supporters. As new churches opened in the area and transport improved, Deagon’s congregation dwindled and by the early 1990s it was time for it to close.

The prefabricated building was donated and relocated to the new church at Agnes Waters. The little church was demolished and the land sold for over $80,000, with the proceeds going to the Sandgate Church.

The Deagon story began at the end of World War I. The church survived the Great Depression and World War II. It was never a large or prosperous church, but it achieved a great deal as a result of the dedication and hard work of its congregation. And as I was researching the church’s history I became aware, from the many people I spoke to, both Christian and otherwise, that the Deagon Mission Church is still fondly remembered by all.

Bill Hughes Queensland Baptist Heritage A detailed history of the Deagon Mission Church will be published in ‘Baptist Forum’, the journal of the Queensland Baptist Historical Society, and a copy of the full history will be preserved in the Queensland Baptist Archives.

Thank you

Bouquets Lucy Brooks, Queensland Baptist Women’s Ministry (QBWM) Prayer Convenor, has produced and distributed a monthly prayer and praise newsletter for more than 30 years. Lucy has decided that the time has come to relinquish this role. Her demonstrated commitment to serve God is outstanding and a wonderful role model for younger generations of women keen to see kingdom growth. Who knows what God has done as people prayed in response to the prompts in Lucy’s regular publications? We express our heartfelt appreciation for Lucy’s devotion to this ministry.

Merv Neumann has resigned from the Queensland Baptist Care (QBC) Council after 24 years of faithful service. Merv also served QBC at Colthup House as far back as 1958. We acknowledge Merv for his outstanding service to QBC and his continuing service to his local church, Leichhardt Baptist. His commitment and diligence has touched many people, and he is a valuable worker in the extension of God’s kingdom.

Thank you!

     

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17

QCCC

Broader Horizons A while back I wrote, ‘One thing that has fascinated and challenged me recently is that the deep and continued goodwill towards camping from people across generations is somewhat dampened by a sense that life has crowded in and made camping less achievable’.

I went on to say, ‘I’m confident that camping retains a great relevance to modern life. Our role is to make camping accessible to ensure the potential of the camping ministry is unleashed in the lives of people’.

Since then we’ve made a lot of progress assessing what we have in QCCC, and how we can grow and expand our services, and more importantly, grow the ministry of camping in our State. I want to use this column to float a few ideas and I want to find some visionary churches who will partner with us to test them. Some ideas have sprung from left-of-field thinking where we’ve pushed our creativity to broaden our horizons and deliver camps with a difference.

We’re looking for churches and/or groups to partner with us in 2011. We’d like to soft-start some of our new ideas with innovative partners, then after reviewing and trouble-shooting, offer them to a wider audience.

Here’s a sample: Father/son adventures: This is a partnership with the team at ‘Fathering Adventures’ www.fatheringadventures.com.au who have been running successful father/son events in North Queensland. We think that there is a tremendous need for this type of service in South East Queensland and QCCC has the

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facilities, programs and staff to meet it. In January we plan to pilot a two night adventure for Dads with sons aged 7-13 which will include sea kayaking. Right now we need seven brave dads and their sons to participate in the first event. If successful, we will develop this as a regular option for churches and outreach groups.

New ways to church camp: Hundreds of camps are held at QCCC each year and we see lots of different models, focuses and ideas. We sometimes wonder if the groups that come to us might be at risk of spending too much time ‘meeting’ indoors and not enough enjoying our facilities holistically. We have some ideas about how to put the ‘family’ into church family camp with programs that are less about meetings and more about intentional social activity. We also want to pilot an idea where a church camp is also a community outreach event. We’re looking for a church, or group of churches on the Sunshine Coast or Brisbane’s north

side, willing to pilot a church family outreach camp at Mapleton.

Themed outreach camps: We recently attended the Christian Venues’ Association which enabled us to touch base with other camping ministries around the country and hear about their successful programs. This has given us great ideas about how to increase our number of outreach camps. For example, we are thinking about a themed camp (based at QCCC Tamborine) that includes visits to Gold Coast theme parks followed by a de-briefing of each day’s experiences with a Christian message at night. Again we’re looking for a church, or

Although we’re keen to pioneer new camping programs, we also retain many old favourites.

The QCCC Mapleton summer holiday family program has a long history and is still going strong. The program involves some teaching, lots of leisure time and a day-long kids’ program that keeps them heartily entertained.

This is a fully-catered camp and each family enjoys a private room and/or cabin. Vacancies can fill up fast but at the moment there are still a few spots available, particularly in the week directly after Christmas (commencing Boxing Day).

Contact QCCC Mapleton for bookings.

Tamborine Meeting Centre:

QCCC

Summer Holiday program:

We are in advanced negotiations to secure a facility that we will transform into a Meeting Centre to cater for retreats and church groups in 2011. The building will have a larger meeting area/performance space and several break out rooms for smaller seminars and contemplative retreat.

The Meeting Centre will double the amount of meeting space available at QCCC Tamborine and provide greater flexibility for our guests.

group of churches, to partner with us to pilot one of these camps in December 2011. What we took away from the CVA experience is that the key to any outreach camps is to draw leaders from close to where our campers live so they can follow-up campers and draw them into their local church.

Reaching Men: A ‘Reaching Men’ forum/conference event is in the early planning stage. A combination of teaching and ‘down time’, this will be a conference for Christian leaders to ‘brain storm’ how to accommodate and challenge men in our ministry settings. Stay tuned for more details.

Queensland Conference and Camping Centres. A ministry of the Queensland Baptists, QCCC operates some of South East Queensland’s most sought after camping and conference centres. Breathtaking scenery, modern facilities and dedicated staff will make your next event easy and memorable.

your needs, our mission

QCCC Brookfield (Brisbane) - capacity 144 QCCC Mapleton (Sunshine Coast Hinterland) - capacity 240 QCCC Tamborine Mountain (Gold Coast Hinterland) - capacity 250 Booking and contact details for each site can be found at www.qccc.com.au

I encourage church and ministry leaders interested in piloting any of these new initiatives to contact me. I’d also like to encourage everyone to take a fresh look at what QCCC is offering these days. I find that people still have an idea that camp sites are stuck in the past. For example, often people arrive at QCCC Brookfield with the expectation that it still resembles the Theological College of years ago.

They are pleasantly surprised by the new facilities, multiple meeting rooms, renovated ensuite accommodation with air-conditioning and the world class catering. Most of the rooms at QCCC Mapleton are now air-conditioned and there is an enormous range of leisure and outdoor education facilities available. Accommodation at QCCC Tamborine is also modern and versatile, with three individual sites offering flexibility and convenience.

Check out www.qccc.com.au or www.thegreatbanquet.com and re-engage with what’s on offer.

Andrew Grant Director of QCCC andrew.grant@qccc.com.au Tel: (07) 5456 3600 Fax: (07) 5445 7122

www.qb.com.au The qb OCTOBER 10

19

BWAA

Be open-handed Christmas is about families; it’s about celebration. Well, yes, in part it is. We get together with our families to celebrate the greatest gift to the world – the Lord Jesus. But what about the one billion people in the world who will go to bed hungry tonight? How can we make Christmas a celebration for them too? Christmas is also about giving, and what better way to do that than give to people living in poverty.

As Christians, we have two excellent reasons for giving to the poor: God requires it of us. The overwhelming message of the Bible is that we need to care for the poor with a willing and compassionate heart. God cares deeply about those living in poverty: ‘There will always be poor people in the land.

Therefore I command you to be open-handed toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land’ (Deuteronomy 15:11).

‘Sell your possessions and give to the poor.

Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys’ (Luke 12:33).

‘Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world’ (James 1:27).

We are making a dent in poverty!

When we watch the news it does not appear that poverty is declining but poverty rates around the world are dropping and in many places, poverty is declining rapidly. True, in some

countries poverty is not changing and in a few cases increasing, but such countries are rare. I have seen communities that no longer need help. I have met families who have been empowered to lift themselves out of poverty. It’s great that our simple actions can have real, life-changing impact overseas!

There are two things that you can do: Give to the Christmas Appeal. Baptist World Aid Australia’s 2010 Christmas Appeal target for Queensland is $500,000.

That’s a lot of money, but there are at least 25,000 people regularly attending Baptist churches, so it’s only $20 each. However, most of us can do better than that. I’d like to challenge you to join me and we’ll blow the target out of the water!

Use the Gift Opportunities Catalogue (in this issue). Do we really need any more ‘stuff’?

I don’t, so if you’re like me, I suggest you show your friends and family the catalogue and say, ‘Buy me something out of this for Christmas’.

This Christmas we can celebrate the birth of Christ, exchange gifts and have fun with our friends and loved ones. This Christmas we can also help to save thousands of lives and give many people in poverty a future.

Isn’t that a wonderful gift? This Christmas I will be giving to the Christmas Appeal and using the Gift Opportunities Catalogue. Will you join me?

Andy Coller Baptist World Aid Australia Andy Coller was delighted and touched to receive a small donation recently in support of BWAA’s ministry to people who are living in poverty. Andy is very grateful to the donor, an elderly lady from South Toowoomba who lives on a single aged pension. Likening her generosity to the story of the widow’s mite (Mark 12:41-44), he commented, ‘No gift is too small’. www.baptistworldaid.org.au

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Just in: Andy has since told a congregation about his little pink bag of coins. After the service a kind man said he would like to multiply that $2 donation and gave $200.

Global Interaction

The leader of a small group asked, ‘What words come to mind when I say politics?’ After staccato-like responses from participants, the leader offered another word: refugee?

Then another: Jesus? Imagine you are in a cross-cultural setting where you try this interaction and when you offer the word Jesus, there is no response. In fact, nobody has heard that word before. How do you feel? Maybe as a follower of Jesus, you want to shed a tear (as a facilitator actually did) as you realise that these are people who have had no opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus.

Global Interaction – Australian Baptists’ cross-cultural mission – is inviting local Baptist Churches in Queensland to give ‘Time for the Third’ on 21 November (the third Sunday). Geoff Cramb, State Director, says the program’s emphasis is not on money or fund raising. Instead the focus is on praying for that part of the globe’s population who are least reached with the gospel. In particular, the focus will be on those people groups where Global Interaction has cross-cultural workers. In those settings, formation of authentic relationships is crucial.

Tim and Mel in Malawi wrote recently about a local friend who is HIV+ and had TB, saying, ‘He is now out of hospital and slowly recovering. He is back from the dead, with a second chance of life. Thanks for praying for this man of God. To add to his life’s saga, just last week his mother died suddenly. It was a big shock to all of us. Please pray as we grieve her. This family walked to our house from the village (10kms away) to take care of Mel when she had malaria. They even washed our dishes. How incredibly humbling it is to be cared for by those we are supposed to be ministering to.’

It would be wonderful to see every Baptist Church in Queensland participate in this prayer focus.

Resources are available, phone 3354 5603 email qld@globalinteraction.org.au

How incredibly humbling it is to be cared for by those we are supposed to be ministering to.

www.qb.com.au The qb OCTOBER 10

21

Men step up

Shed happens

‘Shed Night’ is going from strength to strength! Great food on the BBQ and plenty of it...no fuss...no ‘church’ language...just blokes getting together in a safe and accepting place. A place where: it’s called as it is, from the heart - good, bad, happy or sad; men learn from men as ‘iron sharpens iron’; men learn to encourage each other and men’s emotions, heads, hearts, souls and spirits are gently warmed. Out of Shed, champion sons of the King emerge as continuing works in progress. Past battles are healed in victory - wow!

Many men have been are battered and beaten by life; many have faced tough situations in their relationships, work, finances or health. Shed men encourage each other to see

that God has a plan for each one, and it works! (Jeremiah 29:11). Another thing that happens at Shed is that men are serious about being role models to show younger men, boys (and each other) how to love and respect women.

Shed men say, ‘When we realise who we are and that our identity is not tied to the world’s ideas of position and success; when we know we are God’s champions because we believe our Heavenly Father who says, “You are my son, whom I love and I’m well pleased with you” (Matthew 3:17), then we power into victory! Our women and children and fellow citizens all benefit because we take responsibility: we step up to our God given role as men.’

of a She is-aholic It’s been a little while since my last ‘She is...’ conference and I confess I feel withdrawals.

It’s been too long since I ate a glittery cookie adorned with a pink ribbon or my last perfect vanilla cupcake with pink heart frosting, and it seems ages since I hummed along to ‘Isn’t she lovely?’ My obsession with ‘She is...’ runs so deep I dream about it at night, think about it in the shower and am already counting down the days until I can ‘She is...’ again.

‘She is...’ has captivated the hearts of women all over Queensland, linking girlfriends from the far- north in Cairns, to the west in Dalby, to the freezing south of Stanthorpe and with the city girls in Brissy. Women have gathered under the banner of worth and value, of significance and capacity, and of being deeply loved by the one who knows them intimately.

I’ve been fortunate to share my obsession with a group of similarly single-minded girlfriends who have journeyed with me from a simple vision from God about who she is in Jesus Christ, to presenting his message to over 1000 Queensland women, over a two month period. I thank them for their dedication, the blisters on their feet and the very large phone bills (due to last minute bursts of inspiration) all of them can anticipate in the coming months.

Some highlights from ‘She is...’

• Watching Catherine Mackay from Forest Lake wipe out the competition at the Hawaiian Luau Limbo. Who knew that gorgeous woman could bend so far?

• Explaining approximately 300 times that yes, the glitter on the cookies (made by the talented Tracey Cossgrove) was edible and then listening to the squeals of delight as women tried them • Walking along the beach at Yeppoon at the Central Queensland women’s retreat only to get lost and stuck in mangrove mud while on immediate and apparently ‘extremely dangerous’ croc watch

• Inadvertently saying I was not only the daughter of the mail man, but also 86 years old on Sunday morning at Mapleton • Learning that the women of far-north Queensland have incredibly compassionate hearts, as we almost sold out of AKID buses in one afternoon • Being overwhelmed by the incredible strength of women to endure and overcome unbelievable hardships. Thank you for honouring me by sharing your stories • Discovering the amazing ability of several ‘She is...’ volunteers to be everywhere at once, doing all sorts of detailed jobs while remembering to keep me well supplied with delicious coffee. Thanks, girls!

• Watching the super cool Cathy Knechtli (and her band) lead worship with her bass guitar and rock chick voice • Laughing together over the amazing organ stylings of Barry Morgan’s World of Organs.

Being amongst such amazing God-centred women crystallised my love for women’s ministry and my desire to reach more women with the message of ‘She is...’ And now I can joyfully and without reservation continue to feed my ‘She is...’ addiction with ‘She is...’ Hervey Bay still to come.

Can’t wait to see you there!

She is... Hervey Bay Conference 23rd October Email Joan Hazelgrove jericho7@westnet.com.au or phone Hervey Bay Baptist Church, 07 4124 7200 for more information.

Sue Peters is the State Director for Queensland Baptist Women. For more information on women’s ministry in Queensland please contact Sue at sue@qbwm.org or phone 0438 287 638.

QB women

Confessions

Beyond doilies and recipes ‘She is…’ events are heralding the next season of women’s ministry in Queensland. Elissa Macpherson, keynote speaker at the six State wide ‘She is…’ events, reflects on themes that have emerged and what that means for the future of ministering to women for both male and female leaders.

You look at a sea of faces. They look back at you, and you wonder. What do they think? What will God do? Will this be real; will it last beyond the weekend? You finish speaking and then they come - women lining up to talk, even before you have left your seat. Over the next few days, long letters fill my inbox. Women I have only just met take the risk to share their stories and their personal encounters with God as his Word cuts through to the secret places of their hearts. Each story is moving and precious. Then you put the puzzle pieces together. You hear a common thread running through the stories and themes emerge. You pay attention because you know God is moving and there is more to say. These themes are not just for the benefit of the Women’s Ministry team but, I believe, for the church leadership at large.

Firstly, there was a theme of generations. Two days before the second ‘She is…’ God woke me early with a message. It was a message of legacy and generations. To pass on the legacy of the gospel, but allow it to be spoken in the language of a new generation. I was hesitant to give a message about embracing young leaders: it is a message usually met with pasted smiles and crossed arms. Often, listeners give intellectual assent but in reality they fear the noise, mess and unpredictable nature of change.

However, the response from those in leadership, especially pastors’ wives, was overwhelming. They are tired of helicopter leaders, hovering over young leaders so closely that creativity and initiative are crushed. They could see ministries losing impact and lacking growth.

There were power struggles if someone suggested new tablecloths!

The challenge was set before us, for our ministries to speak the language of the generation it wants to reach. Leaders could see young women were not coming to their events, but failed to realise non-attendance is because they are not speaking the language of the women they are targeting. This includes their visual and technological languages. Globalisation, mass markets and technology were the cultural nannies of our rising generation. They have access to more information, world views and preferences than ever before. The next generation of women will resist involvement if we insist they repeat our style and language of ministry.

Nurturing the next generation is not about duplication, but inspiration.

We should expect them to be innovators, not curators. We can dare

to encourage our next generation to be architects of culture rather than imitators of culture. There is a dream for our daughters to outrun us. To be smarter, braver, more creative, more influential and ultimately more effective in being an advancing force for the kingdom: same legacy, different language.

Secondly, we need men in women’s ministry. There is a niggling frustration that women’s ministry is not integrated into the overall vision and culture of church but is regarded as a parallel ministry. There is discontent that women’s ministry is not valued, as reflected by the level of resourcing and visibility at leadership level. There is a sense that women’s ministry is pushed to the side as an inconsequential gathering of hobby groups where women discuss hairstyles and recipes.

This is so far from the truth. Instead there is a hunger to see women’s ministry as a potent force for positive impact over key areas of global injustice and oppression. A ministry that can address issues of disproportionately high rates of poverty amongst women, female infanticide in Asia, violation of legal rights based on gender, and the unprecedented numbers of women and girls being sold internationally for sex slavery.

Women’s ministry is not an innocuous hobby group; it is at the forefront of confronting injustice, right under our noses.

Many of these global assaults on women are committed by men. But the women at ‘She is…’ did not generally view men as the enemy, rather some experienced their men as apathetic. They desired for their men of God to rise up as heroes.

They want men to value women, to honour them and fight for them and with them. Not to disregard women’s issues with indifference but for our husbands, fathers, and brothers to be counter culture, rise up and stand at the frontline of restoring dignity to women. As women we are getting behind a ministry that stands up for the women being sold as prostitutes in India. How incredible would it be if our men reached out to the men who buy women?

This ministry opportunity is not only international but a local need. One male observer at camp commented that he didn’t realise that women have issues of faith simply because they are women. By isolating women’s ministry, our men miss the opportunity to be men of valour.

They don’t understand the profound effect of abdicating their roles of spiritual leadership.

There was sadness in some women that they couldn’t develop their faith for fear of leaving their men behind. Either the men in their lives were too passive, or too aggressive.

I only briefly referred to domestic violence within Christian marriages but at every conference there were women who came to see me privately to share their despair at suffering domestic abuse in a ‘Christian’ marriage. Women’s ministry is not an innocuous hobby group; it is at the forefront of confronting injustice, right under our noses.

Women’s ministry can be a safe haven for women who have been abused and devalued by men. Most women who suffer abuse and suffering do so because of the actions of men.

Hurt women may only experience men as perpetrators to be feared. This is a secondary victory for evil, causing a split between men and women. Instead, men of God have an opportunity to be agents for healing and restoring the divine relationship between men and women. Men

can be involved in women’s ministries as heroes, protectors and warriors for women. But when leaderships keep women’s ministry to the side, they reinforce the unspoken belief that women are not highly valued and their issues are secondary.

One male who attended conference in a supportive role was so moved he is creating a project for men’s ministry to come alongside women’s ministry. He wants to initiate a fund raiser for Destiny Rescue, an awesome group that rescues young girls from sex slavery in Asia. Men go undercover to rescue these girls. He wants the men in his church to raise funds to help pay for these rescues. He wants to draw attention to outstanding men who value the integrity and dignity of women in our world.

He wants to send a message to the stolen girls in the brothels of Thailand that not all men are the enemy but rather they can be heroes. Equally, he wants to send a message to the women of his local church that he values them too.

Finally, many women, including pastors’ wives, reported a numbing depression. As the weekend unfolded and women let down their church persona, we discovered many women living lives of silent desperation. On the outside they were busy and content but below the surface they felt depressed and unfulfilled.

What was common to the women we talked to, who suffered depression, was their individual lack of personal purpose. They were dependent on the dreams of others, e.g. their husbands, their children, to give their lives purpose. Their value is found externally in supporting the dreams of others but not in their own intrinsic value.

Some women believe that supporting the dreams of those they love and unleashing their own personal dreams are mutually exclusive: you must sacrifice one for the other. And so women, who love and adore their husbands and children, forfeit their own gifts and dreams and wonder why they end up in a place of hidden and quiet depression; slowly dying on the inside but maintaining the façade to protect their loved ones. I learned that pastors’ wives were not exempt: they seemed to carry the extra burden that they should be the most fulfilled.

It had not even occurred to some that they could have their own personal dreams. At some events it felt like I was preaching uphill; women seemed detached, as if I was talking about other people but not them. Then I could sense God stir up their spirits that maybe, just maybe, God saw them, God chose them, God believes in them. You could see the energy build, faces begin to sparkle, as ideas were tossed around the lunch table. Women would shyly admit they had a dream but thought it was silly. Yet

when they said it out loud, their dreams were beautiful and powerful desires for the kingdom.

The key word was purpose. By seeing themselves as part of the solution to global issues like human trafficking and female infanticide, meaning was imparted to women’s ministries beyond hobbies and interests. I noted that those women who had been encouraged to pursue their personal purpose seemed to have more confidence and energy, enabling them to be even better wives, mothers, and sisters in Christ in our churches.

Excitement builds as I plan next year’s messages. Even before this year’s ‘She is…’ events are finished, these themes are brewing in the hearts of our team. We are considering how we can best address these needs at next year’s events. We are excited about what God will do, knowing that ultimately he has great love for women, and Jesus is our source of worth and value. He is our defender, our redeemer. As we increase our belief in him, we realise what great belief he has in women. As one woman put it, ‘She is… because of who he is’.

Elissa Macpherson Lavish Pursuits Ministries www.lavishpursuits.com.au DATE CLAIMER! Mark your 2011 calendar now.

BWA Congress

Several Queensland Baptists attended the BWA Congress in Hawaii recently. An excerpt of delegate David Parker’s impressions follows. For full article, visit www.qb.com.au

Global Baptists ‘Hear the Spirit’ More than 100 Australians were amongst the 4,000 people from over 100 countries who gathered for the 20th Congress of Baptist World Alliance at the end of July. Delegates were challenged in a rich variety of ways to ‘Hear the Spirit’, the theme of this five-yearly gathering of the 105 million global Baptist family.

Intense periods of worship reinforcing the theme were much appreciated by the large crowds who packed the 3000 seat auditorium, however the biggest impact was from the speakers who all addressed the same text, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me’ (Luke 4:18). The main meetings also featured many musical groups from countries such as Brazil, Korea, India, Norway, and Congo/Canada.

The speakers delivered powerful addresses with styles ranging from thoughtful exposition to extremely energetic, engaging with the highly responsive audience. All messages emphasised the importance of proclaiming the gospel as the central task of the church. Pablo Deiros (Buenos Aires) said, ‘There is no church without this proclamation, and there is no other mission for the church than to proclaim Jesus as Lord in the power of the Holy Spirit’. Lance Watson (Virginia) said, ‘It is the business and mission of the Church to make a difference in the world,’ while Paul Msiza (South Africa) made it clear that ‘the proclamation of the word leads to transformation.’ The audience was reminded constantly to proclaim and model the liberating power of the gospel through the Spirit, because in his ministry, Jesus demonstrated ‘the reality of the living God who is powerful enough to satisfy the personal needs of people’.

There were daily Bible studies in eight languages, and focus groups led by experienced practitioners and experts in their fields considered a wide range of topics including: the ethics of tourism; Baptist identity; leadership development; genetic engineering; Christian-Muslim relations; anti-trafficking; short term mission trips and witness in multi-cultural contexts. The

‘Mission in Action’ program provided hygiene kits, sleeping bags, clothing and more to the surrounding community and 30,000 meals were distributed to homeless people.

There were programs for children and youth, cultural programs, and opportunities for delegates to meet with others for exchange of information, inspiration and fellowship. Youth, men’s and women’s rallies were held and there was an enthusiastic response to a celebration of the BWA’s recent Living Water evangelism initiative. A number of associated gatherings were held prior to the official opening including the women’s ministry conference which attracted more than 800 women and focused on issues including trafficking, poverty and abuse. Cross-cultural mission agencies met and the General Council also met. Three new BWA members were added: Baptist Unions from Vietnam which only gained government recognition in 2008; Zambia, and the District of Columbia (USA). The total membership of the 105 year old body is now in excess of 37 million in nearly 220 Unions.

Attendance at this year’s congress was down (est. 25% reduction) partially due to recent economic pressures but mainly because the US government refused visas to many people from developing countries. However, the congress was a great success, due in large part to the generous and faithful service of the local planning committee and the hundreds of Hawaiian Baptists whose willing service was a blessing to all.

Next congress: Durban SA, July 2015. The theme: ‘In step with the Spirit.’

Find recordings of the main addresses at www.doveCDs.com and the theme song at www.loganjonesmusic.com For more details and access to documents and addresses, visit www. bwanet.org David Parker

‘Above all, the congress was a time for Baptists to engage in corporate worship. Evening celebrations were marked by powerful declarations of the Gospel. Morning Bible studies were times of rich sharing. Biblical truth was communicated with great erudition and passionate conviction.’ Neville Callam, General Secretary, BWA

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HOPE Foundation

Refined, not defined

The HOPE Foundation comes along side women who want a life change from the sex industry and/or drug addiction, loves them as they are and provides hope and healing to restore them to full life.

It is an exciting time for the team at HOPE. Founder, Bronwen Healy, is a finalist in the 2010 Telstra Business Women’s Awards and is about to launch her second book titled, I have issues, don’t you? Launch of HOPE’s first CD and book, Her Past is Not Her Future is happening. The CD is a collection of local and international artists from a variety of genres, all with a central message of hope. The book is a collection of 12 brave stories from women whose lives have been forever changed through the HOPE Foundation.

Women like Bec Edmonds from Kenmore Baptist Church who is on the team at the HOPE Foundation. Bec is a strong advocate for HOPE because her own life was changed by the organisation and Bronwen’s testimony - not to mention the other women she has met and served with at HOPE. She firmly believes that their core message, ‘You are loved, valued and created with a purpose’ needs to be heard loudly in all Australian communities - and that it really needs to be heard by the church.

HOPE exists to come alongside the ones who are hard work, the ones we might feel a bit awkward with if they sat down next to us in church; the ones who might not be easy to love - but who need love the most. Bec says that HOPE is ‘a group of chicks who are like Jesus in the flesh to a lot of hurting women in Brisbane and beyond’. Jesus healed the blind, loved and healed the lepers and the outcasts. He called in the outsiders. He loved the unlovely.

Describing her first contact with HOPE, Bec says: ‘It was like I was in a dark tunnel, so busy at church and work, and losing touch with me. I wanted so much to serve God and be his hands and feet - but I didn’t know how, apart from keeping “busy”. I met Bronwen Healy and saw the Christian life done differently, in every breath and moment, as much as every deed. I saw people who lived out of the overflow of God’s love and my life has been changed.’

Bec’s story, featured in Her Past is Not Her Future reads, in part: ‘I moved to Brisbane from a country town (and) I threw myself into work and partying…and being busy with church. I struggled to find a hat that fitted me. A lot of weekends I’d be out with friends drinking and going to nightclubs. I remember always feeling strange in the scene, like you put another hat on in the city.

One night was the beginning of my awakening. One of my best friends was taken from a club and put in the back of someone’s car. I sat in the gutter and cried… wondering who I was, and what on earth I was doing.

My Mum and Dad hadn’t raised me this way at all. Dad had always told me I was a princess and his words were going through my mind as a girl walked over and kneeled down. Grabbing my hands she said, “What is a princess doing here in the gutter? You are a daughter of a king!” I told her what had happened, and she prayed with me and told me she was doing street outreach for a youth mission. I can still see her tear-filled eyes as she told me I was worth more…’

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Visit www.hopefoundation.org.au for more information.

When former refugee from Burma, Htee Ku Sot Win (aged 28), was told his application to resettle in Australia had been approved after 20 years of waiting in Thailand refugee camps, his first emotion was sadness. ‘I felt I was abandoning my people, especially the internally displaced people back in Burma,’ said the former teacher. ‘But after I prayed about it, I realised I would be better placed to help them, after I established a new life for my family in Australia.’ For his childhood sweetheart and now wife, Hayblu, the emotions were different. ‘In the refugee camp it is like living in a prison, like being in a cage. We feel trapped and are only half safe, but here in Australia we are fully free and we feel safe,’ said Hayblu, also a teacher.

Freedom and safety are distant dreams for the more than one million internally displaced people struggling to survive in the harsh Burma jungles. It is this Christian couple’s wish that the people of Australia will unite to improve the living conditions of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in their country of birth. With a small team of their friends from North-East Baptist Church in the Brisbane suburb of Nundah, they have formed a fundraising and awareness campaign called Footsteps for Burma: Helping the Internally Displaced People of Burma. Their aim is to share what’s happening in Burma and to raise $30,000 in three months.

The money will support a group of Christian villages in Karen State that were destroyed by the Junta in July. One village called Tha Dah Der lost all its homes, a beautifully crafted church and the school. 400 villagers are still trying to survive in the jungle: most fled with just the clothes on their backs. Six families have just returned to the village to start rebuilding.

Burma has been embroiled in a civil war for over 60 years.

The brutal military dictatorship (the Junta) has been ‘ethnic cleansing’ the 40 per cent minority ethnic population, including the Karen people. They attack villages, shoot and kill people, rape women and children, take adults and children as slaves, burn homes, churches and schools and destroy crops and livestock. And to ensure the villagers can’t return, they lay landmines around the village - so the people have to flee into the jungle. About 240,000 ethnic minorities - mainly Karen people, are living in nine refugee camps along the Thailand/Burma border. Four times as many are IDPs constantly on the move, living in the jungle and running from the Junta, who want them dead. They live in a constant state of hunger and need to be packed and ready to run or fight at a moment’s notice.

Htee Ku Sot was six years old when the Junta attacked the first village where he lived. He remembers the fear.

Ten years later he was running from another attack, this time on the refugee camp where he was living, just inside

Footsteps for Burma

We will run together!

the Thai border. ‘I heard gunfire, I was afraid.’ One person

‘As I was running, I saw a mother trying to carry two children so I said to her, “Give me one and we will run together”.’ Now he has a child of his died in the attack, 14 people were injured.

own: a son called Sawjimmy who will never know that fear.

He is named after their ethnic group and a powerful former Karen leader.

There are almost 100 former refugees from Burma now worshipping at North-East Baptist Church. The church’s senior pastor Ian Hussey says it’s exciting to see God working in the lives of these special people. ‘Our friends from Myanmar have given our church a double blessing: they have given us a chance to serve in a ministry where we really see the difference it makes in people’s lives and they have inspired us with their unshakable faith in Christ in the midst of great trauma.’

Footsteps for Burma will hold a special fundraising concert at North-East Baptist Church, Nundah on 31 October at 2pm. It will tell the story of the Karen people through song, dance and documentary style interviews with Karen people now living in Brisbane. Singles: $10, families $25.

Friendship bracelets, badges, bookmarks and hand-made Christmas cards made by former refugees, and original artwork from Karen refugees still living in the Thailand refugee camps will be available to purchase.

For more information, sign up to www.facebook.com/footstepsforburma or visit www.footstepsforburma.org. Donations are welcomed.

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Intercultural training

Sharing God’s love On Sunday I went to my favourite coffee shop and the senior waitress talked with me during her break. She is the second person in that café to receive a Chinese/English Bible from me.

Then, a mother and two children sat at a table nearby. The mother took photos of her little girl and baby boy then asked me to take photos of them. She said they were having a three day party to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

Yes, she was a Muslim but she said they are ‘not big on it’. They all wore western clothing and when I asked about her nationality she replied, ‘Iraqi’.

How timely and appropriate was the Saturday afternoon course!

We talked for an hour. I told her I was a Christian and I asked her some questions that seemed okay as she responded positively and openly. They left Iraq during the fiercest fighting, bombing and American occupation. She resented the Americans and all other nations that invaded her country. Anyway, it was a special time with her and the children: the young girl was full of joy and fun.’

This short email gives a glimpse of the blessing that comes from being supported and equipped to use English as a medium for sharing God’s love. Intercultural Training Associates (ITA) runs TEAM (Teaching English As Ministry) workshops once a semester for this very purpose. ITA offers membership with a considerable range of resources, newsletters, links and blog discussions for those who want to use English as a ministry tool.

Visit www.interculturaltraining.com.au In mid September, just as our Muslim friends were celebrating the end of their fast, TEAM workshop guest speakers shared their twenty years of life experiences living in the Middle East. They used case studies drawn from those experiences to challenge workshop participants to formulate appropriate responses and consider how the stories of Jesus Christ could be brought to life.

Useful thoughts from the afternoon: • Because Muslims are people of faith they are often more ready to discuss their personal religious stories than many of us • Sharing our stories of the life of the Spirit of Jesus in our lives, rather than arguing theology with our Muslim friends, often leads them to embark on their own spiritual journey to seek Jesus • Superstition has an underpinning hold on the lives of many Muslims, so sharing your own story of freedom from fear that is found in Jesus Christ is a wonderful interaction • The Bible as Scripture is held in high regard and Muslims are also offended when the Bible is desecrated • Many Muslims world-wide are having visions and dreams of Jesus. This is not an uncommon way for Muslims to commence their search for the living Christ, so asking a Muslim friend if they have ever had a vision of Jesus is quite okay • Referring to Jesus as ‘the Word of God’ (as in John 1) is often more readily understood than the different meaning that Muslim folk bring to the term ‘the Son of God’. www.interculturaltraining.com.au

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Alan has had two hip replacements and rehabilitated himself through regular exercise.

He was also struck down with a serious illness during his first attempt at the trek last year which forced him to abandon his plans. However, with renewed confidence, Alan began the walk in Albany in April, hiking 966 km over 46 days. He said he felt he had some ‘unfinished business’ and was determined to walk the whole track in 2010. ‘For me, walking the Bibbulmun Track had a twofold purpose: firstly to help support, and raise awareness of, a project dear to my heart and secondly to set an example and inspire others to follow. In completing the walk, I achieved my goal and proved to myself, and hopefully to others, that a hip replacement does not sentence you to a sedentary life; it’s a chance to reclaim a reasonably active life,’ Alan said.

People ask me, “Do you think I can improve my life?” I can only reply “How much do you want to?”

Bibbulmun Track

Women affected by leprosy and general disabilities will have greater access to rehabilitation programs in Nepal through the Leprosy Mission thanks to the fundraising efforts of Alan Alexander (aged 74). He has raised $100,000 by walking the full length of the famous Bibbulmun Track in Western Australia and completing sponsored bushwalks around Brisbane.

Goal met, job done!

The Bibbulmun Track provides a range of sights and sounds. Starting in Albany, it winds through Walpole along the southern coast then moves inland at Northcliffe and through the Karri forest and rolling hills up to Pemberton. Alan walked through Jarrah forests to the old timber mill settlement of Darling River then through the areas of Collie, Dwellingup, North Bannister and along the Darling Range.

To anyone who has experienced some physical impairment, Alan recommends regular exercise and taking up a positive challenge. ‘You need to have a good team behind you, to personally set some goals and be willing to work hard at your rehabilitation and ongoing fitness,’ he said.

‘Your attitude determines your altitude. You must personally resolve to do it. Have the courage to step out, put your life, your body, your problem in God’s hands. You must take responsibility for the problem and the outcome. No other person can make the decision for you. People ask me, “Do you think I can improve my life?” I can only reply “How much do you want to?”’

Alan is a member at Kenmore Baptist Church and also the QB auditor.

For more information, visit www.leprosymission.org.au Pictured: Alan and his wife Elwyn who joined him for part of the trek.

www.qb.com.au The qb OCTOBER 10

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Shekinah

Alphabet

These are true stories: The girl’s life is hell. Mum’s new boyfriend is ‘just creepy’. The next day in class some teacher is ‘blah, blah, blah’ about a pencil. Frustration! Rage takes over; a chair gets thrown and a kid gets hurt. Twenty days suspension - to go home to what?

The girl is happy and then it changes: the comments, the looks, the phone camera in the change room, horror on YouTube, tension at home - feels like walking on glass, and then a friend is knifed. Great fear. ‘I can’t go to school Mum. You don’t understand. I just can’t!’

For teachers who work in most schools it doesn’t take long to realise that there are compliant academic kids, not so compliant kids and kids who stop learning. They are the ones who pick up increasing attention and school suspensions.

There are also some kids, not necessarily naughty, who start missing a day or two, then most of a week and eventually turn up only occasionally - if at all. The problem is widespread. The data* reveals that there were 53404 short term and 6794 long term suspensions, 943 exclusions and 529 cancellations in State Schools in 2009; a 20% increase since 2006.

What happens to these kids? Does sending or leaving them out of mainstream schooling work for them? What will their social, emotional, financial and spiritual challenges be in the future? How will they cope? What will they cost and how much are they worth?

Karen and Bill Fowles, long term Queensland teachers began 32

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to study and then formulate some pioneering answers for a Christian response to this growing problem. As a result, the Shekinah program was launched as a ministry of Burpengary Baptist Community Church. It aims to reengage girls with life, learning and the local community and it works with legitimately, systemically marginalised and long term absentee girl students.

Patterns became apparent when these girls were put together in one place at one time. Karen and Bill noticed that each girl seemed to have a very good personal reason for the way she acted. They found labels unhelpful in bringing about the mainstream re-compliance and educational refocusing necessary for a changed life. For instance, a typical group could include those with ADHD, ASD, OD, OCD, TI - ‘Alphabet soup kids’. Drawing on the inspiration of great stories, Karen and Bill have a particular way of understanding these students.

They find that articulating these familiar inspirational pathways helps the students to rewrite their own stories with a better ending. It helps them to discover the story that God has written for them.

‘Princess stories’ are great for this, for example: • Boadicea - something terrible happened and she went out to take revenge • Cinderella - lived a life of quiet desperation and was overworked by others • Rapunzel - hid in her strong tower where no one could get near her • Snow White - lived in a vision that was too small.

soup kids

CROSSOVER CD CLEARANCE

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CHRISTMAS & OUTREACH To make room for new stock we are clearing these high quality resources for 50c per piece (plus postage if required) only while stocks last. Included is CD plus four leaf tract packaged in plastic cover. Titles available are:

Healing comes when a girl begins to believe that she carries her own beauty and that she is needed in life’s great adventure. Jesus is the great prince whom our hearts recognise in these stories and he is keen and well able to rescue.

Girls are referred to the program by local schools where they remain enrolled and are granted an exemption for their attendance at Shekinah. The program operates on values of respect, participation, following expectations, and emotional and physical safety. The educational components of the program are numeracy and literacy, a wide range of physical and recreational activities, whilst various certificate level vocational modules are also being developed and included.

Shekinah has a deep commitment to the ideals of natural education. A girl who persistently rejected literacy and numeracy in school will go to great efforts when exploring hospitality.

When she cooks for the group she researches recipes, discusses options, modifies quantities, details budgets and evaluates the end product for continued improvement. These are fabulous skills well suited to developing a more positive future. An exciting development is a partnership with a therapeutical program working with horses where the girls participate in a range of activities designed to boost self confidence and challenge their comfort zones.

Shekinah graduates have gained employment, returned to school as educationally focused and compliant students, and entered further education. Feedback from employers and schools has been positive and referrals have increased dramatically. Many of the girls are attending youth group, Camps, YWAM meetings and are keenly developing their faith. Their families and friends are getting involved in the life and opportunities offered by church.

Karen and Bill are keen to expand the service and are seeking to partner with other churches and businesses who share their vision to help young girls. There is so much more to this unfolding ministry and stories abound. For more information visit www.shekinah. burpengary.com phone 0421 401 458 or email billfowles@burpengary.com Donations to support this ministry are welcomed.

Bill Fowles (Development Officer) Karen Fowles (Principal) *Ref: Student Disciplinary Absences data 2006 to 2009 for State schools in 2009

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Crossover remote

A welcome break Pastoral families from across the Top End, indigenous leaders from Lajamanu and Kalkaringi, State leaders and others from across Australia, all passionate about ministry in our remote Baptist churches, gathered for the Remote Churches Conference held in Batchelor, Northern Territory recently. Families came from as far away as Mareeba in North Queensland and Karratha in Western Australia, some embarking on a return road trip of more than 4500kms.

It was an outstanding week of teaching, connecting, workshops and lots of fun. One pastor said: ‘Great food, great support, great teaching and great people - just what I needed!’

The conference, which is subsidised by State Baptist Unions through Crossover Remote and by gifts from a number of churches in the Eastern States, is held every three years and it is a vital support for pastoral couples who are often isolated, through distance, from many of the normal resources and fellowship that other pastoral families take for granted. Brian Winslade, National Director of the Baptist Union of Australia, was the key speaker. His messages focused on the story of Barnabas, the mission of the church in the 21st century and the difficulties pastors face in our rapidly changing society. His practical teaching was greatly appreciated.

The indigenous leaders led by Jerry Janagala, sang, shared their stories and led a communion service of damper and billy tea. Their contribution was a conference highlight.

Paul and Laurel White (Derby), Peter and Maria Christifides (Casuarina) and Stuart and Rachael Batterham (Mt Isa) shared their unique stories which inspired and encouraged everyone as we saw how God has called, shaped and used them in special ways.

Five electives led by State leaders included marriage enrichment, working in mining towns, reaching out in remote churches, dealing with difficult people and an opportunity for pastors’ spouses to reflect on their unique 34

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challenges. Andrea Adams led a brilliant program for the children which affirmed them and provided safe and positive input. Raylene Watts and her team of six from Adelaide provided a wonderful array of food; it’s the fifth time Raylene has taken on this big task. Crossover Remote is especially grateful to Bob and Andrea Adams for their great ‘on the ground organisation’ which meant the whole conference flowed so smoothly. One of the more than 80 attendees summed up the week: ‘There is nothing that compares to this week.’

Geoff Rowse

DATE CLAIMER LORD MAYOR’S

With special guests including Paulini

Brisbane Riverstage Saturday 4th December 2010

presented by City Tabernacle Baptist Church

www.carolsinthecity.com.au

Christ mas in t he Park

Combined church service

Celebrating Jesus’ birthday

Sunday 5 December, 3-5pm Brisbane River Stage For more information visit www.cofcqld.com.au

Fernand De Quiros was a man of faith and great missionary zeal, being firmly convinced that the Lord had chosen him to discover and bring the Gospel to ‘terra australis’. Sailing into the waters of the South Pacific and sighting land, de Quiros took possession, calling it the Great South Land of the Holy Spirit. His actual proclamation was as follows: ‘Let the heavens, the earth, the waters with all their creatures and all those here present witness that I, Captain Pedro Fernandez de Quiros, in the name of Jesus Christ, hoist this emblem of the Holy Cross on which Jesus Christ’s person was crucified and whereon he gave his life for the ransom and remedy of the human race, on this day of Pentecost, 14 May 1606, I take possession of all this part of the South as far as the pole in the name of Jesus, which from now on shall be called the Southern land of the Holy Spirit and this always and forever to the end that to all natives, in all the said lands, the holy, sacred evangel may be preached zealously and openly.’

Our great south land

Our great south land We have a Christian heritage and we forget it at our peril. As Karl Marx wrote: ‘A people without a heritage are easily persuaded.’…We have a heritage that shows God led Christians, Catholic and Protestant, to discover this land. We, who live in it, have not only a Christian heritage, but a Christian destiny. This great Southland of the Holy Spirit was given to us by God, to prepare us for an even greater destiny, a land and a city yet to come.

Our early fathers of the faith understood this promised land with its beautiful harbour and cities was not to be our final abode. For people of faith have a heavenly destiny.

Extract courtesy of http://www.gordonmoyes.com/2003/05/04/the-explorers-01/

After the proclamation the ships’ cannons roared and soldiers fired their muskets and de Quiros and his men shouted: ‘Long live the Faith of Christ!’

It was a Dutch Protestant, Abel Tasman…who was the first European to sight Tasmania and New Zealand. A devout Christian, he sailed from Batavia on 14 August 1642…If we look at a map of explorers prior to Cook, we see that while all of them headed straight for the Southland, they all sailed right around it! There are natural explanations - contrary winds and currents, but maybe God was waiting for another day, when an English Christian protestant, Captain James Cook should claim the land that became ours.

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Think spot

Grasp the hand that moves the world 2 Chronicles 20 records the story of a sudden attack against Jerusalem, the response of King Jehoshaphat and the people, and the singular victory granted by God in response to their prayers. John Trapp* regards this as ‘a golden chapter’, believing that there is no more instructive passage in all of 2 Chronicles. Certainly, the truths it brings to light are of great help to us today.

arrive in the land of Canaan than a famine occurred which forced him to flee to Egypt. Who lived a more godly and faithful life than Job? Yet in the midst of his obedience to God he suddenly lost his children and his possessions and was afflicted with a terrible illness. Thus, we find in Scripture that deep trial often afflicts God’s faithful ones in the midst of their service to him.

Among the kings of Israel and Judah, Jehoshaphat was one of the finest. Perhaps he was not as consistently faithful as David, Josiah and Hezekiah, but he was a godly king of whom his subjects could later say: ‘He sought the Lord with all his heart’ (2 Chronicles 22:9). We are told that, when he ascended the throne, he devoted himself to promoting the true worship of God and began to reform the land (chapter 19). And yet, while he was in the midst of this noble undertaking, calamity suddenly struck. Jerusalem was attacked by three great nations, including Moab and Ammon, the ancient enemies of Judah.

We must regard this as the rule rather than the exception.

Even the most faithful Christians should not be surprised or think it unseemly if trouble comes upon them while they are carrying out their Christian duty. It is the unforeseen aspect of suffering that multiplies the anxiety; if trouble can be anticipated some of its sting is removed.

This was not an isolated experience. Exactly the same thing happened to Hezekiah. While he was devoting himself to the restoration of the true religion, the great Assyrian army invaded Judah (2 Chronicles 32:1). Abraham had a comparable experience. In obedience to God’s direction, he left his homeland and relatives, but no sooner did he

Jehoshaphat’s response to the news of these invading armies is not unexpected: he and his people were panicstricken and experienced a deep sense of their own helplessness. Helplessness is a part of our daily lives, though most of us tend to get by without realising it. Daily we are outnumbered and overwhelmed by the duties, responsibilities, sorrows and difficulties of life. That person is not wise who blithely declares himself or herself able to overcome all obstacles in life. There comes a moment in every life when the veil of false security is torn away and people find themselves in the grip of a terror for

Prayer

is the great weapon we possess in all trying circumstances.

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which they have no response. One of the purposes of trial is to drive us, as it did Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah, to such a point of helplessness that we look to God alone for help. Alexander MacLaren writes: ‘Distrust of self and glad confidence in God, are not opposites; as naked distrust and trust are, but are complementary.’

How precious is that helplessness which drives us to God, that despair which pleads with him and reaches out to grasp his hand!

Jehoshaphat’s response to the news about the attacking armies might be considered by some to be unconventional. He proclaimed a day of fasting and prayer for the nation, so that people came from all the towns of Judah – the men, their wives and children – and assembled in the temple to beg God’s mercy.

Many would regard the king’s actions as absurd. Surely, when a vast army was camped by the banks of the Dead Sea – within striking distance of Jerusalem – it was a time for mobilising the army, not for praying? Wasn’t he wasting a whole day, which should have been devoted to preparing the nation for war? Wouldn’t this day of fasting weaken the people and give them less hope of prevailing in the imminent battle?

But to those who believe in God’s rule of all things, Jehoshaphat’s action was the wisest and most effective course to adopt. He rightly believed that the outcome of all battles is in God’s hands and that he can equally ‘save by many or by few’ (1 Samuel 14:6). The history of Israel and Judah had ably demonstrated this truth.

Repeatedly, God had refused to help those who would not humble themselves and pray to him, and those who

did he had miraculously strengthened and delivered beyond all human expectations. So Jehoshaphat had good reason to believe that all the preparations in the world would be to no avail without God’s assistance, and that if God’s intervention could be secured, no enemy could possibly prevail against him.

Prayer was the great weapon Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah used to counter the opposing armies, and it is the great weapon we possess in all trying circumstances. People are often very learned today and, while education should be encouraged, the learning that matters most is attained by students in the school of faith who become proficient in the art of prayer. Martin Luther wrote: ‘Prayer is that mightiest of all weapons that created natures can wield.’ Someone else said: ‘Prayer takes hold of the hand that moves the world.’

At times of difficulty and perplexity, we may pray with the people of Judah: ‘We don’t know what to do, but our eyes are upon you’ (2Chronicles 20:12). Our eyes may be weary and worn out, but they can still look to God; they may be filled with tears, but they can still focus on him. It is prayer and faith in God that delivers us from all our troubles; it saved Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah, and it will save us as well. *John Trapp, English Bible Commentator, (16011699) Jim Greenbury jimncath@tpg.com.au

Persecution brief

Please Pray AZERBAIJAN: WORRYING PRECEDENT SET AS CHURCH LOSES FIGHT TO REGAIN REGISTRATION In July a church in Azerbaijan lost its fight to win back legal recognition after being refused registration under a new religion law. The law, passed in 2009, required all previously registered religious organisations to gain new accreditation. All churches had to submit documents to re-register by the start of 2010 and many were required by the authorities to amend their constitutions, particularly with regard to outreach and children’s summer camps.

Churches soon began receiving letters informing them that their applications had been refused, including Cathedral of Praise Church, Baku City. The church’s Pastor Halilov wrote to the Committee of Religious Affairs (CRA) to contest the refusal but two months later a judge delivered the disappointing verdict that the CRA had not acted unlawfully in rejecting the application. The outlook appears bleak for other churches who have contested the refusal of their applications, as this ruling sets a legal precedent.

NORTH KOREA: THREE CHRISTIANS EXECUTED Three leaders of an underground church in North Korea have been executed and 20 Christians have been sent to a prison labour camp in Yodok. Sources say the arrests and executions were carried out in mid-May when police raided a house in Kuwal-dong in Pyungsung County, Pyongan Province, and arrested 23 believers who were gathered there. The leaders were tried and sentenced to death, and the authorities wasted little time in carrying out the executions. North Korea is one of the most difficult places in the world to be a Christian, and it is estimated that there are at least 400,000 Christians, all of whom are living under constant threat of imprisonment, torture or public execution if the authorities discover their Christian faith. It is thought that between 40,000 and 60,000 Christians are currently in prison labour camps because of their faith. Such camps are notorious for brutal treatment, starvation and torture, sometimes to death.

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IRAQ: HOPE FOR IRAQI CHRISTIANS The Iraqi government has pledged to help exiled Christians return to their homeland after thousands were forced to flee amid intense persecution. Over the last 20 years, Iraqi Christians have been targeted in waves of savage antiChristian violence, resulting in a massive decline in the Christian population of Iraq, from 1.5 million in 1990 to perhaps as low as 400,000 today. Much of this decline took place after the 2003 invasion, with many of the remaining Christians now internally displaced. Following a meeting with the Pope recently, the new Iraqi ambassador to the Vatican, Habbeb Mohammed Hadi Ali Al-Sadr, said that the government had offered assistance to those Iraqi Christians who had fled the country. ‘For its part, the government has committed itself to all those who return, to give them a job, a plot to rebuild their homes and 1.5 million Iraqi dinars,’ he said. He affirmed that the Iraqi Constitution sanctions the total equality of rights for Christians and also gave them the possibility of creating a semi-autonomous region like Kurdistan.

Source: Barnabus Fund

Providing Christ like care for grieving families Personalised care & support Pre-paid Funeral Planning

JC Epidemic

August is a busy month for the team at JC Epidemic and one of the premier events was the Bridgeman Downs ‘Shift’ outreach. This year they showcased their sensational BMX ‘box jump’ riders and unveiled their Mini Ramp 1/2 pipe show. This new addition to the JC show allows them into confined spaces and sets up in minutes, perfect for school performances. Their riders produced a spectacular display and kept the crowd enthralled with extreme stunt riding skills. A couple of local lads even got an opportunity to showcase their talent.

For the last display of the night, hundreds of young people crammed all vantage points to see the JC BMX team hit the triple jumps. After the stunts, JC’s Jimmy Bartle challenged the crowd with a gospel message based on the brevity of life. Over a hundred youth came forward, expressing their desire to know more about Jesus. That’s what JC Epidemic is all about!

Visit www.jcepidemic.com

Christian Cruising Join Christian groups on cruises. Cruising is a great holiday option that offers quality time away for singles, couples and families. You unpack once, all meals, activities and entertainments are provided and you get to visit new places. Cruising also provides wonderful opportunities for Christian witness as people meet others and develop friendships.

NEWS! Join a small group to cruise the Antarctic in November 2011. Fly to/from Buenos Aires. Cruise to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic continent. Landings in all places to meet local people.

To register your interest in this cruise, or to receive regular information on cruising throughout the world, specials as they are released, on board credit for cruises booked, go to christiancruising@integritytravel.com.au. Christian Cruising will match or better any published cruise offer.

Reviews

B OO K S . D V D S . M U S I C BOOK: ‘A new kind of Baptist Church’ Brian Winslade SPECIAL OFFER! $20!

Place your order today and receive a 20% discount on RRP Baptists are known for many things; among them their belief in the authority of the Bible, the priesthood of all believers, and their particular form of congregational government.

The latter is often euphemistically referred to as the ‘Baptist way’. Yet at the dawn of the twenty-first century, new generations of Baptist church leaders from Nigeria to New Zealand, Bulgaria to Brazil, and America to Azerbaijan, are critiquing the ecclesiology they have inherited. Is the ‘Baptist way’ immutable and transferrable across cultures? Does it measure up against Scriptural principles of leadership and gift diversity? Is congregational government more prone to conflict than other forms of polity?

A New Kind of Baptist Church explores the foundations of the Baptist movement and offers a critique via the lens of the Scriptures. It also looks at sociological factors that gave it shape, and asks whether contemporary sociology might equally influence the way Baptist churches are structured. A New Kind of Baptist Church also examines the issue of church size. Baptist churches, generally, have been relatively small.

Is this a part of its genius, or might classical understanding of congregational government tend toward a ‘glass ceiling’ on growth and effective mission in the twenty-first century?

The author is unashamed of his Baptist heritage and the denomination that has shaped his Christian experience. He is even more unashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the call on each local church to engage in effective mission.

Indeed, the central thesis of this book is a conviction that the ‘Baptist way’ is more properly about fruit-bearing engagement in mission than descriptive of an egalitarian ecclesiastical social system.

ONLINE ARTICLE: ‘Why teens and tweens love the vampires their parents learned to hate’ Mark A Hadley Mark Hadley reviews vampire themes currently so popular with youth. Read Mark’s full article at http://www.markahadley.com/ mark-my-words/why-teens-and-tweens-love-the-vampirestheir-parents-learned-1.html His comprehensive comment concludes: ‘The attraction of the vampire in this present age…is not that they are also struggling for eternity, but that they have grasped hold of it without giving up anything. Once God’s damnation is removed, or at least distanced, the vampire enters into an everlasting life on earth that is wholly attractive to the modern teen. They are the undying princes and princesses of the earth. Certainly their eternity continues to contain the potential for pain, loneliness and destruction, but these are compensated for with power, attraction and wealth.

“You can be cool, you can be rich, you can be beautiful – you can be physically and morally superior for all of eternity,” the vampire tells them. “And you never have to deal with God because you are never going to die.” It’s all fantasy, of course, but dangerous nonetheless. Without knowing, admiring youths dream of entering into the same bargain that Jesus rejected: they bow down and worship powers other than God’s in exchange for dominion over the kingdoms of this world.’

Order now: Morling Press Phone (02) 9878 2175 Email benitac@morling.edu.au 40

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Reviews

BOOK: ‘Marta’s Legacy #2: Her Daughter’s Dream’ Francine Rivers WORD’s Price - $19.95 This month sees the release of the much anticipated conclusion to the latest fiction series by Francine Rivers. It picks up the story from the first book and follows the life of Carolyn Arundel – daughter of Hildemara Rose.

This is a moving story about a family torn apart over several generations, and the pain and anguish it caused. It is a story about the sacrifices every mother makes for her daughter, and how those choices can impact on future generations.

However, amidst the grief and turmoil there is a revelation that grace and forgiveness can heal the deepest of wounds. Although this is a work of fiction, at the end of the book Francine Rivers writes that many of the events were inspired by her own family’s history, and her desire to delve into the bond between grandmothers, mothers and daughters. Readers are sure to enjoy this latest offering from one of Christian fiction’s most endearing authors.

(Book One in the series ‘Her Mother’s Hope’ also available from WORD)

BOOK: ‘The Power Of A Whisper’ Bill Hybels WORD’S Price - $16.95 As the title of Bill Hybel’s latest offering suggests, this is a book about trying to discern the whispers of God and about being open and ready to receive his promptings. In true Hybels style, this book is based on his own experiences and is filled with many examples from his life and stories from people close to him. It is a practical book filled with tips on how we can be better listeners, and how we can impact the world around us. This is not a book that leaves the reader with food for thought only; it is a book designed to get the reader actively participating in communication with God. As the author suggests, what would happen if every Christian around the world clearly heard the promptings directed to them from Heaven – what kind of a mark would we leave on the world?

BOOK: ‘Outlive Your Life’ Max Lucado WORD’s Price - $16.95 ‘These are devastating times: 1.75 billion people are desperately poor; one billion are hungry. In the midst of it all, here we stand; you, me, and our one-of-a-kind lives. We are given a choice…an opportunity to make a big difference during a difficult time. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope? Worth a try, don’t you think?’ - Excerpt from Back Cover Max Lucado invites the reader to outlive their life here on earth, and not just in heaven – to live in such a way that the world will be glad that they did. It is a typical Max Lucado book but what sets it apart from his previous works is the challenge he lays before the reader – to make that difference. The text, along with its accompanying discussion and action guide ensures a book that has practical, out-workable, applications. 100% of the author’s royalties from the book (and associated ‘Outlive Your Life’ products) are being donated to World Vision and other ministries of faith-based compassion. Based on the book of Acts, this book will make an impact on everyone who reads it.

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Called home

JAMES (JIM) ALLEN 1924 – 2010 Following a decline in health over 4-6 weeks, Jim Allen was in hospital when the Lord said, ‘That’s enough!’ and he was called into the presence of his Saviour. His memorial service was conducted by Dr Neil Parker, assistant pastor of the Toowoomba Community Baptist Church. Jim and Joan’s children and their families were present. Trevor, Linton and Peter, spoke very personally and articulately about their father and the impact he has had and continues to have on their lives. Peter’s daughter sang the 23rd Psalm beautifully.

Des Walter, a long time OAC colleague of Jim’s from the early 50s, spoke of the significant part Jim played in his life and ministry. Wes Fittell, Bob and Betty Mathison and Jim and Grace Vine represented OAC Ministries, and Es & Val Morse, with whom Jim and Des flew often in the outback, were also present.

Jim’s pastoral ministry included The Gap 67-70, Brighton 71-79, Deception Bay 7984, Southport 84-85, Taringa 86-91 and Toowoomba (part time) 91-94. Joan and the family are very conscious of the support of the Lord’s people at this time.

AVIS ROSE MORCOM 1925 - 2010 Avis Morcom, in partnership with her husband the Rev Geoff Morcom made an important contribution both in missionary service in Africa as well as in Baptist pastoral ministry in New South Wales and Queensland.

In 1954, Avis and Geoff were attending Clayfield Baptist church when they responded to a call to Africa. They returned to Australia to study at the NSW Baptist College and pastored there before returning to Africa to serve until 1991.

From then until Geoff’s retirement in 2001 they served Queensland Baptists. Avis supported Geoff in his work with Global Interaction, pastoral ministries with Salisbury Baptist and Coorparoo Baptist and as Queensland Baptists’ President in 1997/98.

People who knew Avis remember her as a loving wife, respected, quiet, sweet and hospitable; a woman committed to prayer and a reliable and faithful church member.

Debra May Lean 1958 - 2010 Following a long battle with breast cancer since it was first diagnosed in 2000, Deb Lean passed away peacefully at home with her family around her. Deb was a teacher in Biloela when she met and married Murray and started life as a country GP’s wife. After completing bible college, the couple returned to Biloela where Murray pastored the church for 13 years. In 2002, Murray and Deb were called to serve at what is now the City North Baptist Church. Along with Women’s Bible Study, assisting Murray and expressing her great heart for hospitality, Deb and a team of women organised ‘Women of Purpose’, the church’s annual Bible teaching conference which this year attracted 300 women from around south east Queensland. In 2009 Deb was part of a team who commenced ‘Women Preaching Christ, a seminar to train women as evangelistic speakers. Our prayers are with Murray, the couple’s six children and one grandchild.

Our deepest sympathy goes to the grieving families and friends of these faithful saints who have been called home .

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Quotable Quotes ‘God’s love is based on nothing. And the fact that is based on nothing is the sole basis for us ever feeling secure. Were it based on anything we do, and that anything were to collapse, then God’s love would crumble as well. But with the God of Jesus, no such thing can possibly happen.

The Abba of Jesus loves men and women, not for what he finds in them but for what lies within himself. It’s not because men and women are good that God loves them, nor only good men and women whom God loves. It is because God is so unutterably good that he loves all persons, good and evil. God loves the loveless, the unloving, the unlovable. He doesn’t detect what’s appealing, attractive and then respond to it with his favour: in fact, he doesn’t respond at all!

The father of Jesus is a source; he acts, he does not react. He initiates love. He IS love.

Love without motive. It’s for this reason that we can declare with rare theological certainty: God loves us as we are!

Fil Anderson Author of ‘Running on empty’ and ‘Breaking the rules’ www.journeyresources.com Dr Annesley, Susanna Wesley’s dad, once told her, ‘What we need Sukey (Susanna’s nickname), is for someone – just anyone – to light a candle in our present darkness and to lift it high enough for everyone to see the way. Such a person could change England, and changing England could change the world.

Lighting such a candle and holding it high will be no easy task. It would be like keeping a candle burning in the midst of a hurricane.’

‘But would that be possible?’ asked Susanna.

‘With people, by themselves, it would be impossible. But with God, all things are possible!’

Thanks to Peter Woodall for this quote.

Send your quotable quotes to qb@qb.com.au and if they appear in The qb, you will receive a Word bookstore voucher.

At the very heart of our calling as leaders of local churches is motivating, mobilising, equipping and enabling those in our church body to take up Jesus Christ’s ongoing gospel purpose in this world. Each session in this outstanding seminar will present you with powerful principles that you will then apply to your church’s strategy for evangelism.

Evangelism

For leaders and emerging leaders

John North and Michael Frost bring fresh insights and more practical ideas for you and your church. Both speak at many conferences and seminars internationally and in Australia on the topic of evangelism. They are involved, not only in theory, but in the practice of evangelism.

John North is the Ministry Team Leader at Ambassadors for Christ International—Australia, author of LifeWorks, GrowthWorks and the Time with God daily devotional magazine and radio presenter. Michael Frost is the founding director of the Evangelism Intern Scheme, a program for developing evangelistic preachers among Morling College students. Michael is author of seven acclaimed books, including Re-Jesus: A Wild Messiah For A Missional Church. Michael heads up the evangelism department at Morling College and pastors a missional church in Sydney.

This is a great opportunity to think beyond ‘evangelism courses’ to the whole broader topic of evangelism through our churches today. I urge you to attend what will be an encouraging, inspirational and practical day!

Max Horton, AFCI Qld Representative Phone 3390 8524, email maxmeryl@bigpond.com

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LIKE A CHALLENGE? WELCOME TO THE FUN ZONE! COMPLETE THESE TO WIN PRIZES!

Sudoku rules: Each row, column and block must contain one of the numbers from 1 to 9. No number may appear more than once in any row, column or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid, the puzzle is solved.

Sukodu solutions to: QB Magazine, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053 Two correct entries will be chosen to receive a $30 Word bookstore voucher. Don’t forget to include your full name and contact details.

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Kids’ Corner Have you done something to show someone in another country that Jesus loves them?

Check out these links for some practical ways to share Jesus’ love: http://www.baptistworldaid.org.au/GiftOpportunities/ http://www.freerice.com http://www.samaritanspurse.org.au Draw a picture or write a paragraph to tell us what you have done to help others.

Send your good ideas to The qb magazine PO Box 6166 Mitchelton 4053 or email qb@qb.com.au so that other children in Queensland Baptist churches can share Jesus’ love with people around the world.

(Don’t forget to add your name, address and age).

Hey Kids, Look for Lucy!

Little Lucy is hiding somewhere in this issue of The qb. Tell us where she is hiding by snail mailing your answer, or emailing qb@qb.com.au

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The Baptist Union of Victoria is seeking a Director of Ministries.

The Director of Ministries (DOM) is responsible for: • the leadership and development of the mission and vision of the Baptist denomination in Victoria, • all ministries of the denomination, • the implementation of the strategic directions of the BUV and • management of the BUV office staff.

Union Council is requesting expressions of interest in the position. Please contact Jon Price (Union Secretary) at the Baptist Union on 9880 6177 or jon.price@buv.com.au for a copy of the position description.

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Pastor Sandy Bay Baptist Church (Hobart, Tasmania) is seeking to call a full-time Pastor. Full job details, contacts and application information can be viewed at http://sbbc.net/pastorsearch.

Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle is seeking to appoint an ASSOCIATE PASTOR-CHURCH DISCIPLESHIP Full-time Is God calling you to an exciting ministry of whole of church discipleship?

Are you passionate about helping people to grow in Christ?

Are you a team player who wants to work with a great team?

Could you live in the relaxed but developing regional city of Rockhampton?

Accommodation - AROUND THE STATE CALOUNDRA: Seafarer Chase luxury 2 b/r holiday apartments on the Sunshine Coast. Ocean views, heated pool, BBQ, security parking, close to beaches, shops, cinema and bowling club.

Contact Marianne/Martin Burton Phone/Fax 5491 7155.

CALOUNDRA: GOLDEN BEACH - Highset three bedroom holiday home. Weekends or weekly. Pets OK. Close to beach. Phone 0402 077 822 or liz_paul@hotmail.com.

CALOUNDRA: KINGS BEACH - Holiday unit, modern, pool, 100m from Kings Beach. From $360 pw. Phone Ray 0427 990 161.

MALENY: Self catering fsc cottage, sleeps 4. Quiet. Walk to town.

Phone 5462 2645 or email thecoles@uq.net.au.

EVENTS

Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle is located on 10.5 hectares in a booming city of over 60,000 people. We seek an energetic proactive team player to lead our church into intergenerational discipleship.

We are a strong missions’ based church. Our children and youth ministries are healthy with good leadership in place.

The person appointed will provide spiritual guidance to these thriving ministries.

City Tabernacle will present the Lord Mayor’s Carols in the City again this year. The finals for this year’s talent competition Christmas Star will be held at the Lighting of the Christmas Tree, King George Square in front of a crowd of thousands. Join the email notification list for more information, http://www.carolsinthecity.com.au/christmas-star.html

The appointee will be someone who: -has some ‘runs on the board’ -is in touch with children and youth -can see the bigger picture of intergenerational discipleship -relates well with adults.

Large Auditorium: Seats 290. Qld Baptists Centre at Gaythorne.

Phone Helen 07 3354 5600 for more information or visit www.qb.com.au – venue hire.

Being able to leap tall buildings in a single bound will also be helpful! The appointee will inspire, recruit and develop new and existing leaders, and help our youth and children to follow Jesus.

Please contact Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle phone 4926 9669 or email churchadmin@rockybaptist.org for an information pack. www.rockybaptist.org.au

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FOR SALE MUSIC RESOURCES: An extensive range of second-hand choir music and Christmas, Easter, Youth, and Children’s musicals available. Phone Kerryn Colen, 0407 526 506.

MOTORHOME: Winnebago, value at $75,000. For details/photos, phone Ray, 0427 990 161.

GIVE AWAY Sunnybank District Baptist Church seeks a full-time Associate Pastor to join a developing pastoral team.

Besides general pastoral duties, responsibilities will include:

Resource Chorus Book OHTs; Vol.1 in large format and Supplements 1-20 in small format. Phone 4162 3232.

WANTED Old piano wanted for children learning to play. Phone 5541 2075.

INTEGRITY TRAVEL

• Developing small groups’ ministry • Strengthening evangelism and missions • Improving gift discovery and ministry placements.

Make your travel/holiday bookings with Integrity Travel and assist missions.

Applicant must be a strong and engaging public speaker.

Join escorted tours in 2010 and 2011 to Europe, south Africa, Phone Norman 07 3863 1007 or visit www.integritytravel.com.au

Contact Sunnybank Baptist Church, Attention: Pastor Daryl Evans, for a profile and position description, email devans@ sdbc.org.au.

Applications close 5pm Friday 29 October 2010.

Join Integrity Travel’s Christian Cruising Program today!

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Competitive ratesreturn on your investment Security of ainterest guaranteed Competitive ratesreturn on your investment Security of ainterest guaranteed Friendly service BAPLink provides: Security of akeeping guaranteed on your Friendly service No account fees return on savings andinvestment Competitive interest rates investment accountsfees on savings and Friendly service No account Security of akeeping guaranteed return on your investment investment accounts Exemption from the Deeming Provisions No account keeping fees on savings andfor Friendly service Pensioner investmentsavings accounts Exemption from the Deeming Provisions for No account keeping fees on savings and Pensioner savings Exemption from the Deeming Provisions for Facilities available: investment accounts Pensioner savings Facilities available: Internet Savings banking accounts call and term Exemption from theat Deeming Provisions for Facilities available: Pensioner savings Savings accounts at call Partnership accounts - a and newterm way of giving Savings accounts atfor call term Partnership accounts - both a and newdeposits way of and giving Electronicavailable: transfers Facilities withdrawals Partnership accounts - both a and newdeposits way of and giving Electronicaccounts transfers Savings atfor call term withdrawals Deposit facilities through the Westpacand Bank Electronic Partnershiptransfers accountsfor- both a newdeposits way of giving withdrawals Deposit the Westpac Bank Cheque facilities accountsthrough for churches Electronic transfers for both deposits and Deposit through the Westpac Bank Cheque accounts for Loans tofacilities churches andchurches ministers withdrawals Cheque accounts for churches Loans tofacilities churches and ministers Insurance with EIG Ansvar Deposit through the Westpac Bank Loans toaccounts churches and ministers Insurance with number EIGfor Ansvar Join the growing of ‘Baptists making a Cheque churches Insurance with EIG and Ansvar difference depositing with BAPLink.

Join the growing number of ‘Baptists making a Loans to’ by churches ministers

difference ’ bywith depositing with BAPLink.

Join the growing number of ‘Baptists making a Insurance EIG Ansvar difference’ by depositing with BAPLink.

For more information Join the growing number of ‘Baptists making a

or an application form contact us: For1, more information or an application form Mitchelton contact us: difference’ byLevel depositing with Prospect BAPLink.

53 Road, Gaythorne PO Box 6166, 4053 For1, more information or650 an application formFax: contact Phone: 3354 5611 or 1800 062PO (outside 3354us: 5605 Level 53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne BoxBrisbane) 6166, Mitchelton 4053 Level 1, more 53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne BoxBrisbane) 6166, Mitchelton 4053 email: baplink@qb.com.au www.qb.com.au/baplink Phone: 3354 5611 or 1800 062PO (outside 3354us: 5605 For information or650 anwebsite: application formFax: contact Phone: 3354 5611 or 1800 650website: 062PO (outside 3354 5605 email: baplink@qb.com.au www.qb.com.au/baplink Level 1, 53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne BoxBrisbane) 6166, Fax: Mitchelton 4053 email: baplink@qb.com.au website: www.qb.com.au/baplink Phone: 3354 5611 or 1800 650 062 (outside Brisbane) Fax: 3354 5605

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BAPLink - Baptists making a difference email: baplink@qb.com.au website: www.qb.com.au/baplink BAPLink - Baptists making a difference BAPLink - Baptists making a difference BAPLink - Baptists making a difference