President Alban Matohiti
Editors & Writers
Joyce Taylor
Lauren Bongard
FROM THE PRESIDENT
ALBAN MATOHITI
Graphics
Lynda G. Abreu
Maryellen Hacko
Other Contributors
Dejan Stojkovic
Peleti Peleti
Photography
Next content
deadline: 30 April
bit.ly/intraSyd
As we step into a brand-new year, the Greater Sydney Conference of Seventh-day Adventists extends a warm and heartfelt welcome. We are excited about the opportunities God has placed before us and are eager to see His plans unfold in 2025. Together, let’s commit to His mission and embrace the blessings He has in store.
This year, we are dedicating ourselves to evangelism and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those around us. Hebrews 1:14 reminds us, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” Just as the angels are actively working to guide and protect us, we are called to be God’s hands and feet, reaching out to our communities with love and compassion. Here are some exciting initiatives planned for the year ahead:
Door-to-Door Evangelism: This timeless method of sharing God’s Word remains a powerful way to connect with people. Let’s pray for and support our teams as they share the hope of Jesus.
Bubsie Car Outreach: This creative ministry will travel to schools and churches, engaging children and families to teach God’s love in an interactive way. Big Camp: A highlight of the year! Big Camp offers spiritual revival, fellowship, and growth. Mark your calendars and invite your friends to join this special event.
We praise God for the incredible work accomplished last year. Our chaplaincy team conducted over 450
Bible studies, and many lives were touched and transformed. Continue to lift these studies and individuals in your prayers, asking God to bring more people into relationship with Him.
While there is much to celebrate, there are also challenges ahead. To accomplish our mission, we must work together as a united church body. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:12, “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” Every member has a role, and together, we can achieve great things for God’s kingdom.
This year, we also renew our commitment to stewardship. Stewardship is more than managing finances; it is about dedicating every aspect of our lives to God. Our time, talents, resources, and relationships are all opportunities to honor Him. Our aim is for each church member to grow deeper in their commitment to God, trusting Him fully and living faithfully.
As we embark on this journey together, let us hold fast to the promise of Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
God is with us, and He will guide us every step of the way. May this year be one of growth, unity, and evangelism. Let us step forward in faith, trusting in God’s leading and empowered by His Spirit. Together, we can make an eternal difference in Sydney and beyond.
@sydneyadventists
COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT
ADDRESS
148 Fox Valley Road, Wahroonga NSW 2076
PHONE
(02) 9868 6522
GSCComms@adventist.org.au
ISSUE FEATURE
Harvest 2025
Everything you need to know about Harvest25: What it is, how your church can get involved, and why GSC is focussing on evangelism this year. View our in-depth article or one-page summary.
Page 14
Save the Date
Mar 14-16 / Digital Discipleship
Apr 21-27 / Sydney Big Camp
May 4-31 / Reframe Evangelism
May 6-9 / Faith & Science Conf.
July 5 / Singles Rally
Classifieds
For volunteer opportunities, local events, jobs, accommodation and more, visit our notice board at bit.ly/ gsnotices or via the QR code below.
Festival of Tabernacles
In October 2024, Woollahra Seventh-day Adventist Church set up a sukkah to commemorate the Festival of Tabernacles...
Page 22
37 Baptised in Sydney
The Granville Fijian Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a baptism miracle following its threeweek-long evangelistic campaign when 37 people were baptised...
New Pathfinder Group Formed
The newest Pathfinder Club in the Greater Sydney Conference has been established at Dundas Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Page 20
Pastors List 2025
Find out where pastors have been placed around Greater Sydney for the next 12 months...
Page 12
Page 7
Mar 8 / Adventist World Radio
Mar 15 / Local
Mar 22 / Local
Mar 29 / 13th Sabbath: NSD
Read more at bit.ly/2MJvRr5
STAFF NEWS
EDEN ASHCROFT APPOINTED AS YOUTH DIRECTOR FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE
The Greater Sydney Conference proudly announces that Pastor Eden Ashcroft, our esteemed Young Adult Coordinator, has accepted the call to serve as the Youth Director for the Western Australian Conference (WAC). This appointment marks a new chapter in youth ministry leadership in Western Australia.
Pastor Ashcroft’s tenure in Sydney has been marked by dynamic leadership, successfully contributing to the increase in youth participation and fostering spiritual growth among young adults.
“Eden has been a great team member in the youth department. Her engagement with Adventurers through to the university student ministries has had impact and value. We will miss her and her contribution. WA Conference will be blessed to have her,” said Pastor Moses Depaz, Associate Youth Ministries Director.
“Eden’s unwavering passion, dedication, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our youth and community. While we will miss her greatly, we rejoice in knowing that God has extraordinary plans for her in this new chapter,” echoed Pastor Dejan Stojkovic, Youth Ministries Director.
The Greater Sydney Conference extends heartfelt congratulations to Pr. Ashcroft on this new role and looks forward to witnessing her influence and innovations in Western Australia. Her dedication and visionary leadership promise a vibrant future for youth ministries under her guidance.
AUBREE
HARRINGTON MOVING TO NNSW
Pastor Aubree Harrington has been appointed as Associate Pastor at Avondale University Church in North New South Wales Conference. She was previously pastoring at Kellyville Adventist Church.
PAUL RANKIN OBITUARY
Former Greater Sydney Conference (GSC) Health Director Dr Paul Meredith Rankin passed away December 17th, 2024. Per his Facebook page, Paul died in a way worthy of one of his stories — having an adventure, living life to the fullest.
Paul served at GSC from 2019 to 2020. A cofounder of The 10,000 Toes Campaign, Paul played a pivotal role in establishing this initiative through his outstanding research and writing skills. He had a big smile, a big personality and a big heart. Paul had two great loves in his life: his family and sharing the love and hope of Jesus.
“He wanted everyone to know that God’s kingdom is happening right here and right now... and that everyone has a special place in it,” shared his daughter Rebekah.
Paul is survived by his wife, Sonia, and his children, Rebekah, Caleb, Rachel and son-in-law, Linden.
BRENDA WALSH and CHUCK HAGELE
LOCAL NEWS
LIFE COACHING COURSE HELPS CHURCH LEADERS GROW AND SERVE
Dr Katia Reinert, Health Ministries associate director for the General Conference of the Seventhday Adventists, presented a life coaching workshop for pastors on 6-8 November 2024. Nineteen pastors from the Greater Sydney Conference (GSC) and four pastors from the North New South Wales Conference attended.
“Dr Katia helped our pastors develop their leadership skills,” explained Pr Andre Vieira, GSC Ministerial Association Secretary. “She highlighted the difference between counselling, mentoring, and coaching and how each approach helps achieve a different goal. The training was very practical and interactive.”
Dr Reinert has presented this course for the
KIDS FIND THEIR INNER MASTER CHEFS AT SYDNEY PORTUGUESE CHURCH
The Sydney Portuguese Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ashfield was filled with excitement as it hosted its third Kids MasterChef event!
The local church’s IASD Sydney Wellness Hub organised the event to emphasise the importance of healthy eating. All the dishes prepared were health approved. The children divided into teams to meet the challenge of creating nutritious and delicious dishes
last 10 years, and many local churches have seen their pastors’ and laypeople’s leadership qualities grow thanks to the program. As for this workshop, it was more than a day out for pastors. “We believe coaching skills will help the pastors to better help people keep growing in their journeys, whatever needs they have,” Pr Andre said. “They will be able to help people identify possible areas where improvement is needed and help them find their own solutions.”
that would impress a panel of judges.
The event was a wonderful opportunity for children to bond, express their creativity, and gain confidence in the kitchen. It also brought the local community together, celebrating the talents of its youngest church members and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Everyone left with a tummy full of deliciousness!
If you’re interested in our Kids MasterChef event, please follow @iasdsydney on Instagram for future dates and information.
NEW PATHFINDER GROUP FORMED IN GREATER SYDNEY
Exciting news! The newest Pathfinder Club in the Greater Sydney Conference has been established at Dundas Seventhday Adventist Church. Let’s show them our support by leaving a message of encouragement and sharing this wonderful news with others. Please keep the Dundas Pathfinder Club in your prayers as they begin this journey of faith and service.
SUNSET TIMES INCORRECT
JOIN US!
We have a number of job vacancies and are continually looking to fill roles. Visit us at sydney. adventist.org.au/about/ employment/.
Please note that the sunset times in the printed edition of the 2025 Conference calendar are incorrect. Please refer to the online version at sydney.adventist.org.au/resources/gsc-calendar/ for the correct times.
PASTor LIST
Conference president
Alban Matohiti
Ministerial Secretary
Andre Vieira
ATSIM Coordinator
Richard Reid
SPD Institute of Public Evangelism/ Evangelism Coordinator
Gary Webster
Mission & Strategy, Stewardship
Roger Govender
Muslim Mission Priority Project
Edison Akrawi
Seaside Mission Priority Project
Saki Marawa
Regional Coordinator
Central: Abigail Figueroa
North: Andrew McCrostie
Northwest: Martin Vukmanic
South/SW: Panapa Leuluai
West: Frank Ropati
3AM Ryde SDA Church
Josh Gonzalez
ALBION PARK Church PLANT
Allen Bierschbach
Ashfield SDA Church
Abigail Figueroa
Auburn SDA Church
Felix Opoku-Gyamfi
Bankstown SDA Church
Fred Chileshe
Bidwill SDA Church
Pelikani Esau
Blacktown SDA Church
Marty Luke
Blacktown Spanish SDA Church
Carlos Hernandez
Cabramatta Fijian SDA Church
Usaia Baravilala
Cabramatta SDA Church
Usaia Baravilala
Cabramatta West Spanish SDA
Church
Carlos Hernandez
Camden Valley SDA Group
Darren Slade
Campbelltown Fijian SDA Group
Frank Ropati
Campbelltown SDA Church
Boris Soldat
Peleti Peleti
Campbelltown Spanish SDA Church
Mario Guzman
Caringbah SDA Church
Mario Guzman
Castle Hill SDA Church
Marcus Pereira
Jonathan Dawson
Chatswood SDA Church
Mark Baines
Cherrybrook SDA Group
Eddy Johnson
Church in the Fields SDA Company
Darren Slade
City Cook Island SDA Group
Sitiveni Teaupa
Concord SDA Church
Domenic Rosina (Elder)
Corrimal SDA Church
Allen Bierschbach
Dundas SDA Church
Chris Campos
Eastwood Chinese SDA Company
Soman Chu
Elizabeth Lodge SDA Group
Taunese (Toni) Marsh
Warwick Sawyer
Tuni Laikum
Enmore Fijian SDA Church
Joseph Talipuan
Epping SDA Church
Nigel Ackland
Fairfield SDA Church
Edison Akrawi
Filoship Connect SDA Company
Frank Ropati
Fountain in the City SDA Company
Tim Shelton
Jimmie Cha
Fox Valley SDA Church
Abigail Figueroa
Justin Boyd
Freshwater Community SDA Church
Sakiusa Marawa
Galston SDA Church
Steve Belson
Ghanaian SDA Company
Felix Opoku-Gyamfi
Goshem Fellowship SDA Group
Sione Kite
Granville Fijian SDA Church
Joseph Talipuan
Granville Multicultural SDA Church
Jimmie Cha
Granville SDA Church
Boriss Soldat
Guilford Italian SDA Church
Tuni Laikum
Holroyd SDA Company
Fred Chileshe
Hoxton Park SDA Church
Andrew Russell
Hurstville Chinese SDA Company
Toon (Robert) Zhang
Hurstville SDA Church
Terence Greenfield
Indian Fellowship SDA Group
Shiu Kumar
Ingleburn Group
Vitolio (Vito) Vaifale
Katoomba SDA Church
Tuni Laikum
Kellyville SDA Church
Martin Vukmanic
Joshua Stothers
Joshua Carnie
Kings Langley SDA Church
Chris Manthey
Lakemba SDA Church
Ana Lolohea
Liverpool Samoan SDA Church
Brian Leuluai
Lord Howe Island SDA Church
TBA
Marrickville Spanish SDA Church
Carlos Hernandez
Mile End Community SDA Company
Craig Vanas
Stanley Stuski
Minto Samoan SDA Company
Ramese (Rams) Tupe
mona valE SDA Company
Mark Baines
Mount Colah SDA Church
Chris Manthey
Mountain View SDA Church
Terence Greenfield
Mt Druitt Samoan SDA Church
Brian Leuluai
Panapa Leulua
Mt Druitt SDA Church
Tai Mokoroa
New Hope SDA Company
Lloyd Grolimund
New SYDNEY SAMOAN GROUP
Peleti Peleti
Norfolk Island SDA Church
Anders Svensson
Northern Beaches Bible Worker
TBA
Old Central Sydney Samoan SDA Co.
Vitolio Vaifale
Parramatta Central SDA Group
Daniel Przybylko
Parramatta SDA Church
Pablo Lillo
Stanley Stuski
Shiu Kumar
Pendle Hill SDA Church
Shiu Kumar
Penrith SDA Church
Janusz Jagiello
Predestine Group/Riverstone SDA
Group
Tamoto Leaia
(Overseen by Toni Marsh)
Punchbowl Samoan SDA Church
Panapa Leuluai
Ryde Korean SDA Company
Kenneth Lee
Southern Illawarra SDA Church
Allen Bierschbach
St Marys Samoan SDA Company
Ramese Tupe
St Marys SDA church
Edison Akrawi
Stanmore SDA Church
Nigel Ackland
Sydney Central Korean SDA Church
Kenneth Lee
Sydney Chinese SDA Church
Daniel Chong
Sydney Cook Islands SDA Church
Tai Mokoroa
Sydney Indonesian SDA Group
Fabian Edian
Sydney Portuguese SDA Church
Richard Valenca
Sydney Russian SDA Church
Roman Selivanov - Bible Worker
Sydney Tongan SDA Church
Sitiveni Teaupa
Tahmoor SDA Company
Mario Guzman
The GateWay Community SDA Church
Tai Mokoroa
The Way SDA Group
Henry Dunn
Thornleigh SDA Church
Andrew McCrostie
Toongabbie SDA CHURCH
Janusz Jagiello
Ubuntu SDA Group
Eddy Johnson
Wahroonga SDA Church
David McKibben
Richard Reid
Waitara SDA Church
Daniel Przybylko
Igor Shemet
Toon (Robert) Zhang
Wantok SDA Company
Sakiusa Marawa
Warrimoo SDA Church
Taunese (Toni) Marsh
Wetherill Park Spanish SDA Church
Walter Alana
Kenneth Lee
Windsor SDA Church
Igor Shemet
Wollongong SDA Church
Allen Bierschbach
David Lu
Woollahra SDA Church
Tim Shelton
Xcell SDA Company
Frank Ropati
Prisons Chaplain
Tuni Laikum
Long Bay Prison Chaplain
Wellington Caqui-Bazan
Associate Ministerial Secretary: Schools
Richard Reid
Chaplain: Hills SDA College: castlehill
Jonathan Dawson
Chaplain: Hills SDA College: Kellyville
Jess Stekla
Joshua Carnie
Joshua Stothers
Chaplain: Hurstville School
Fabian Edian
Renee Vaovosa
Chaplain: Kings Langley Aged Care
Charles Skiba
Chaplain: Macarthur Adventist College
Bernard Deojee
Azora Ufagalilo
Alexis Ratu
Jess Hick
Chaplain: Mountain View College
Craig Vanas
Raul Moran
Andrew McCrostie
Chaplain: Sydney Adventist School
Auburn
Soman Chu
Chaplain: Wahroonga Aged Care
Taunese (Toni) Marsh
Tuni Laikum
Warwick Sawyer
Chaplain: Wahroonga School
Justin Boyd
Nick Kross Jr
Renee Vaovosa
PATHFINDER BIBLE EXPERIENCE: A FIRST FOR THE GREATER SYDNEY CONFERENCE
Pr Dejan Stojkovic, Sydney Adventist Youth Director
On November 22nd, for the first time in the Greater Sydney Conference—and potentially in all of Australia—we reached a significant milestone. We were thrilled to host the inaugural regional test for the Pathfinder Bible Experience, marking the beginning of something special in our ministry.
The Pathfinder Bible Experience is deeply rooted in the Adventist church’s longstanding commitment to valuing the study of God’s Word. This initiative brings that focus back into the hearts of our youth. As part of Greater Sydney Conference’s broader strategy, one of our core goals is to raise the spiritual temperature across our church, and the youth department believes that the Pathfinder Bible Experience is a wonderful way to do that.
Pathfinder clubs across our region selected six teens for each team, appointed a coach, chose a team name, and then embarked on an intensive study of the Bible. For this 2024/2025 cycle, we focused on the books of Romans and 1 Corinthians. We were incredibly proud of our first five teams—one of which joined us virtually from Tasmania—who all performed exceptionally well.
These young people spent months preparing for four tests throughout the year, some even memorizing entire chapters
or books of the Bible. The impact of this initiative is far-reaching. It’s not just about knowledge; it’s about returning to the basics of knowing God’s Word. Through this process, entire families have been engaging in Bible study together, and it’s our hope that along with helping our youth achieve high scores, it will also deepen their relationship with God and foster spiritual growth in their homes.
We were blessed by the leadership of Pastor Alban Matohiti, Greater Sydney Conference president, who served as the main question reader. His contribution was vital to making the event meaningful. Additionally, Nadelle Manners, Greater Sydney Conference CFO, delivered a powerful worship experience that inspired and uplifted those in attendance. We are so grateful for their support.
This is just the beginning, and with hope we look forward to other regions of this beautiful country joining us. Together, we can spread the blessings of this experience throughout our union, and perhaps even to the wider division.
If you’re wondering whether it’s too late to join, the answer is no! You can still gather your team, start studying Romans and 1 Corinthians, and join us for the next test on February 22, 2025.
For more information, contact Pr Dejan Stojkovic at dejanstojkovic@adventist.org.au.
CELEBRATING WORLD PATHFINDER DAY
Pr Dejan Stojkovic, Sydney Adventist Youth Director
On September 21, 2024, the global Pathfinder family united as one to celebrate 74 extraordinary years of the Pathfinder movement—a movement not only rich in history but one that is bursting with promise for the future. Across the world, and within the Greater Sydney Conference, churches gathered to worship, uplift, and give thanks for what God has accomplished through Pathfindering. But this day wasn’t just about looking back—it was about looking ahead, to what God is preparing to do next through this dynamic, life-changing ministry.
For so many of us—whether young or young at heart—we can testify to the profound impact Pathfindering has had on our lives and our church. Some of our fondest memories, deepest friendships, and most transformative spiritual moments were shaped within this movement. Pathfindering is more than just a program. It’s arguably the most powerful ministry the Adventist Church has to offer, molding young people spiritually, physically, and creatively, while giving them experiences that will last a lifetime.
And now, as we look toward 2025, we are filled with anticipation for the 75th anniversary (20 September 2025), where we will celebrate under the banner, “Pathfinders on Purpose.” This theme captures not only our mission but our unwavering commitment to raising young people who are grounded in faith, purpose, and service. Here in Greater Sydney, our dream is to see more clubs springing to life and more young people
stepping into the adventure of Pathfindering. But we know this dream can only become reality if parents, grandparents, uncles, aunties, elders, deacons, pastors, and community leaders step forward to get involved.
Let me tell you this: you don’t need a massive club to make a huge difference. A Pathfinder club with just two eager kids can be the spark that transforms lives—within the church, the community, and beyond. Too often, we wait for the “perfect” time, the “perfect” conditions to serve. But here’s the truth: when we move, God moves. When we take that step of faith, He blesses our efforts in ways beyond what we could imagine.
So, if God is stirring your heart to start a Pathfinder club or if you feel the nudge to get involved, don’t wait. Call 0494 074 439 today, and we’ll be here to help you every step of the way. This is your chance to be part of something bigger than all of us—a movement that changes lives for eternity.
To every leader, every parent, every volunteer who has poured their time, energy, and love into Pathfindering: we say thank you. Your sacrifice and dedication are what make this ministry thrive. We believe in Pathfindering because we believe in what it stands for—a generation growing up with Jesus at the centre. And as we look toward the future, our prayer is that He will remain at the centre of every Pathfinder’s heart, guiding us as we journey forward together.
37 BAPTISED AFTER GRANVILLE FIJIAN CHURCH EVANGELISTIC SERIES
The Granville Fijian Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a baptism miracle following its three-week-long evangelistic campaign when 37 people were baptized and joined the congregation.
From 26 October to 16 November 2024, the church hosted an evangelistic program every Sunday through Friday evening. Samuela Koro, a young evangelist from Fiji, assisted the church in preaching in indigenous Fijian language. Even though he was only able to attend school through Year 3, Samuela is a powerful preacher who uses his gifts and talents to share the gospel with others.
The church’s personal ministries department encouraged members to invite family and friends to the programs. This links to the Total Member Involvement evangelism model, which asks every church member, regardless of their role or position, to actively participate in evangelism efforts.
The difference those personal invitations and connections made was tangible. “More than 20 visitors attended every night, with a total attendance between 100 and 100,” Pr Shiu said.
Evening programs included a short marriage and family session followed by an hour of singing and preaching. The Granville youth and
Mountaineers singers also participated by singing the appeal song each night. There was also a lot of behind-thescenes work.
“It was humbling to see the powerful effort of constant prayer engagement of the mission team,” shared Pastor Shiu Kumar. “They engaged every day from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m., studying the Bible and interceding in prayer for the whole evangelistic program.”
On the final evening, the congregation saw the fruits of their efforts when more than 30 people made the decision to be baptized.
“That was a very special Sabbath,” said Pr Shiu. “The place of worship was packed, and there were even people standing outside viewing the big screen as brother Samuela Koro preached.”
During the worship, Pr Shiu thanked the church members for proactively reaching out to their personal networks and making the effort to consistently connect. That afternoon, at 3 p.m., 32 people were baptised. A second round of baptisms later increased the total number of new members to 37. Now, those new members are actively engaged in church activities and training as disciples. Ongoing Bible studies help them learn more about their new faith and how to share the good news.
As the Granville Fijian church grows, the congregation plans to keep personally introducing people to Christ using the Greek Old Testament philosophy of oikos, or communicating God’s love through an established network of social relationships. Oikos means “household,” and extends to immediate family members and extended family, friends, and even business associates—anyone who is in a person’s sphere of influence.
In a PowerPoint presentation on the topic, Pastor Shiu noted, “Following Christ’s resurrection and ascension, it was this same pattern of the gospel moving through the oikos that caused [membership in] the early [church] to explode.”
He added a quote from Michael Green, which states, “The early Christians knew that when the message of faith was heard and demonstrated by friends and family who were known and trusted… receptivity to the Gospel increased tremendously.”
With statistics showing that 75 percent of new church attendees started coming because of an invitation from a friend or relative, Pr Shiu challenges church members to do their own research and see if it holds true in their own lives and relationships.
OIKOS IS FOR EVERYONE!
You can reach others for Jesus as a Christian in a multifaith world, and Peter Roennfeldt’s book If You Can Eat… You Can Make Disciples can help. It shares how Jesus engaged with those around him, no matter their religious backgrounds, and gives tips for how we can do the same. Get your copy at adventistbookcentre.com.au/if-you-can-eat.html or your local Adventist Book Centre.
“Peter has the ability to speak right to your heart and focus on what’s truly important. This book is inspirational in its simplicity, while giving practical tools for discipleship that everyone can use.”
—Jody Eddy, Discipleship Ministries Team Leader, WA.
FESTIVAL OF TABERNACLES COMES TO LIFE AT WOOLLAHRA
In October 2024, Woollahra Seventh-day Adventist Church set up a sukkah to commemorate the Festival of Tabernacles, or Sukkot. A sukkah is a temporary structure built during Sukkot to symbolise the desert huts where the Israelites lived after escaping from Egypt.
According to Pastor Daniel Przybylko, the hut and special service helped give the church family and community a window into deeper meanings. “It reminds all of us that we are just pilgrims and strangers passing through, looking forward to a better land, a better country—a heavenly home—and to Christ’s return!”
Pr Daniel explained that celebrating the festival also allowed the congregation to connect with their Adventism and their Jewish neighbors. “Ellen White says, ‘Well would it be for the people of God at the present time to have a Feast of Tabernacles,’” he said. “As Adventists, some celebrate the Lord’s Supper, Easter, and Christmas. Those were fulfilled promises. But Sukkot is the one annual festival that hasn’t yet been fulfilled. I think it makes a lot of sense for Adventists to celebrate Sukkot to look forward with eagerness to the Second Coming.”
The Woollahra Church intentionally minsters to its Jewish neighbours and friends. “We have programs and events scattered throughout the year that members can invite their Jewish friends to,” Pr Daniel explained. These include a prayer service on Purim, Passover seders followed by dinner at the church, a service on Yom HaShoah where church members invite relatives of Holocaust survivors and those who served in WWII, and more.
“We often do these on the closest Sabbath to the event so that our church can experience it and invite a friend,” he adds. “When possible, we ask a Jewish Adventist to preach for special occasions. We also invite local guest speakers from the community.”
Church members have embraced the cultural and religious tie-ins. “Many people at Woollahra just automatically say ‘Shabbat shalom’ as opposed to ‘Happy Sabbath,’ which we will hear in most Adventist circles on Sabbath,” he said.
This also serves a dual purpose. “In times like we live in today, where there is a sharp increase in antisemitism, we should support to our Jewish neighbours by reaching out to them to show our support,” he adds.
The sukkah hut was especially exciting to the kids in the congregation, and it helped them grasp a bigger metaphor. “The children loved it,” Pr Daniel said. “Children always like to play ‘cubby house,’ so this was like a large version of that! We got to explain to them the idea that we are on this earth with all its problems temporarily until Jesus returns. Our houses are only temporary.”
At the Sukkot service, two Jewish women spoke, sharing how they both grew up in Jewish environments but came to believe in Yeshua, Jesus, through their life journeys. “They also shared how Sukkot now took on a new and larger meaning for them as they look forward to the return of Yeshua and the kingdom to come,” Pr Daniel explained.
While Pr Daniel is moving to a different church next year, the Woollahra congregation plans to revisit the Sukkah festival again next October.
AMERICAN SAMOA MISSION DEDICATES NEW BUILDING
The American Samoa Mission dedicated its new office building on 28 November 2024.
Pastor Peleti Peleti, associate pastor of the Campbelltown Church and pastor of the New Sydney Samoan Church, represented the Greater Sydney Conference at the event.
“This is a significant milestone for the American Samoa Mission and the Adventist work in the region,” he said. “This impressive facility, constructed at a cost of approximately $570,000 USD, features dedicated rooms for each department, a studio for their Hope Channel Station, a well-equipped conference room, and other modern amenities to support their growing operations.”
Construction started in March 2023, marked by a groundbreaking ceremony hosted by mission president Pastor Tui Tuliatu. The dedication also marked the 80th anniversary of the Adventist Church in American Samoa.
“It was an honor to witness this momentous occasion alongside the Trans-Pacific Union President, Assistant CFO, government representatives, and members of the American Samoa Mission Executive Board,” Pr Peleti said. “Their presence underscored the importance of this achievement and made the celebration truly special and memorable.”
American Samoa has a rich history within the Adventist Church. For many years, it was part of the Samoa-Tokelau Mission. In 2016, it was restructured as an attached region of the Trans-Pacific Union Mission, headquartered in Suva, Fiji. On 18 November 2021, after years of steady growth, it achieved mission status, meeting all the required criteria, including a notable increase in tithes and offerings as well
as the establishment of new churches to serve the local community.
The island is home to one Adventist school, which shares the same campus as the new mission office. Media ministry has played a transformative role in the region, changing perceptions and attracting more viewers to local church programs. With the establishment of a Hope Channel Oceania branch, the Mission is expanding its influence and plans to set up a radio station to further amplify its outreach.
“This milestone represents more than just the opening of a new building,” said Pr Peleti. “It symbolizes the strength of collaboration and the power of faith in action. The Greater Sydney Conference remains dedicated to providing ongoing support, whether through financial resources, training, or guidance, to ensure the continued success of this mission.”
The new office stands as a testament to the hard work, faith, and dedication of everyone involved.
“I hope and pray that the Greater Sydney Conference will contribute to the growth and establishment of the American Samoa Mission,” said Pr Peleti. “We are deeply committed to supporting the global mission of the Adventist Church and are thrilled to see how our collective efforts will make a tangible impact in communities around Tutuila and Manua and the whole of American Samoa. Our partnership with the American Samoa Mission is a meaningful one, as we share the same vision of spreading the gospel and empowering local congregations for the soon return of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.”
Pastor Peleti Peleti contributed to this article.
BIG2025CAMP
ADVENTIST ALPINE VILLAGE, APRIL 21-27
SPEAKER
Dr. Randy Roberts, Senior Pastor at Loma Linda University Church (Big Tent)
SPEAKER
Pr. Adam Ramdin, Executive Producer of Lineage Journey (Youth + YA)
bit.ly/gscbigcamp #sydneyadventists
