ISSN 0819-5633

J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 0 3

R E C O R DIn this issue

Avondale College: Its ethos and mission

International status forreligious liberty group

The cross and last-day events

Gifts for prisoners in PNG Lae, Papua New Guinea

Some 700 Seventh-day Adventists braved heavy rain to present towels as gifts to prisoners at ajail in Lae, Papua New Guinea, on May 18. Five hundred prisoners and staff attended the

presentation.The Adventists, who came from 18 churches, presented 849 towels to Samson Jaro, the

commander of Buimo Jail.Mr Jaro, who is also an Adventist, commended the church for the timing of the gift, saying

there had been sickness affecting the prisoners. A lack of hygiene—insufficient towels meantprisoners had to share—had contributed to the sickness.

“The government is unable to provide for such needs,” he said.The church members also prepared food and served it to the prisoners, and presented toiletries

and reading materials as well. Mr Jaro even allowed women from the churches to serve prisonersin high-risk cells who, because of sickness, could not attend the presentation.

This is not the first time Adventists have helped the prisoners. Church members paid for theprisoners’ uniforms several years earlier and continue to pay regular visits to the jail.—BensonToPatiliu Diave/Adventist News Network/with Emily Lassah

Work for ahometownmissionary

Buimo Jail commander Samson Jaro accepts a gift of towels from Irene Joe, president of the CommunityServices Department of the Adventist churches in Lae, and her assistant, Martina Wawia, and

secretary, Helen Mando.

June 28, 2003

E D I T O R I A L

Keeping things in perspective Stand on the top floor of a tall building

and look down. Those on the groundfloor look so small, so far away. But standon the ground floor and look up. Those onthe top floor disappear into the sky. Theview is different, depending on where youstand.

Teaching a student perspective ischallenging, but rewarding. Finding thehorizon, understanding the light sourceand observing the variables of distance areprinciples grasped quickly by some, butslowly by others. The secret, though, is notin understanding the principles, but inapplying them to complete the picture. It’sthe same with Christians. The principles of

the Bible are of little value if we don’t applythem to our lives.

Some in the community see Seventh-dayAdventists as being judgmental, intolerantand secluded. These perceived character-istics are probably the result of personalexperience, family prejudice or a combin-ation of factors such as age, culture andgender. But the strongest argument isperhaps a perceived unwillingness forAdventists to get involved.

We Adventists often think remaining at adistance is the safe option, but this onlysupports the views of church critics.Speaking out for justice takes courage, anddoing it in a way that shows compassionand understanding presents an oppor-tunity for the gospel to come alive.

What is your perspective?A bystander making observations from a

lofty height finds it easy to criticise others.Take a moment to stand in someone else’s

shoes. The tragedy of pain and sufferingdwarfs millions of people. Take a good,hard look at discrimination, drug abuse,gambling and pornography. It isn’t a prettypicture. Offering compassion may meannew levels of discomfort for Adventistswho want to share their hope in Jesus.

Jesus remains the greatest at teachingperspective. He stepped out of His comfortzone to eat and talk with people in thestreets. He experienced pain and suffering.He held tired hands, looked into deep eyesand warmed hearts with words ofkindness, compassion and acceptance.Talking to prostitutes, seeking out taxcollectors and placing children on His lap

helped these people see heaven for the firsttime.

Seventh-day Adventist Christians havebeen called to do the same. What is yourperspective on HIV/AIDS? How do you seeeuthanasia? How do we treat homo-sexuals? Do we really care for the environ-ment? These and other social issues raisetough questions that need our attention.

We set our sights on a rooftop exper-ience, but others deserve to enjoy the viewas well. In practical, socially responsibleways, Adventists have an opportunity tobring the gospel to life. Sharing ourperspective on Christ with those in advers-ity isn’t the result of a corporate campaign,but of the commitment of each churchmember in the community where they live.

How does your community view theAdventist Church? Have you held some-one’s hand lately? Talented and giftedpeople fill our churches, schools, hospitals,

factories and offices. The communityknows about us because of our healthylifestyle. But can a worker on the third floorof an office block or a local family whocan’t afford a private education see thevalues of the Adventist Church?

Communicating is an important aspectof growth and development—for churchmembers and their neighbours. It’s apowerful way to change perceptions andbuild confidence. Jesus didn’t falter in Hisbelief or in His values, and yet He foundways to share His perspective withothers—by spending time with them indirty streets, on country roads and aroundwells.

Walking in the footsteps of Jesus meansperceiving the world through the eyes ofthe hurting, not standing on the sidelinesbeing critical.

The way the community views thechurch is our responsibility. Morally speak-ing, we can choose to remain on the topfloor, or we can step into the elevator andgo to the people. Jesus helped the worldsee a brighter future not by sitting on athrone, but by living among the people andthen dying for them. He experienced lifefrom all angles.

The best way to get things in perspectiveis to see as Jesus did and take the AdventistChurch to thepeople for a close-up. Share yourhope in Jesus. Itmay give others anew perspective.

Bronwyn Mison,Communication andPublic RelationsDirector,South Pacific Division

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OFFICIAL PAPERSouth Pacific DivisionSeventh-day AdventistChurchACN 000 003 930

Vol 108 No 25Cover: Benson ToPatiliuDiave

Editor Bruce MannersSenior assistant editor Lee DunstanAssistant editor Kellie HancockCopy editor Graeme BrownEditorial secretary Meryl McDonald-GoughSPD news correspondent Brenton StaceySenior consulting editor Barry Oliver

Web site www.record.net.au

Mail: Signs Publishing Company 3485 Warburton HighwayWarburton, Vic 3799, Australia

Phone: (03) 5966 9111 Fax: (03) 5966 9019Email Letters: editor@signspublishing.com.auEmail Newsfront: record@signspublishing.com.auEmail Noticeboard: editorsec@signspublishing.com.auSubscriptions: South Pacific Division mailed withinAustralia and to New Zealand, $A43.80 $NZ73.00.Other prices on application. Printed weekly.

Offering compassion may mean new levels of discomfort forAdventists who want to share their hope in Jesus.

June 28, 2003

F L A S H P O I N T

● The former publisher andeditor of One Jump Ahead wasawarded the Medal of theOrder of Australia forservices to youth through thepublication of the magazine.Nainie Magnusson wasgiven this recognition in theQueen’s honours list pub-lished on June 9. The awardwas given posthumously andreceived by her husband, DrEric Magnusson, in Can-berra, ACT. Mrs Magnussondied at the end of 2001, butwas nominated for the awardbefore her death (awards areonly given posthumously ifthe person was nominatedbefore the time of death).

● The Search video cam-paign is moving to New-castle with 243 advertise-ments to be screened ontelevision between July 5 and13. Offering a free viewing ofthe video Search for a newworld, it provides anopportunity for churchmembers to connect withpeople from their localcommunity, say the peoplefrom Adventist Media.

● Health Week at Fulton College, fromMay 12 to 17, ran with the theme “Healthbegins with God.” The week began with acampus clean-up and inspection of thecollege campus, and cleaning up of

roadsides to the neighbouring villages(pictured). College nurse Bev Chapmanand the college minister, Pastor NarayanGoundar, with a group of staff, studentsand children, helped repaint KorovouHospital outpatient rooms on the Sunday.The week concluded with an oratorycontest, “Preventing AIDS among youth.”

● Meanwhile, Dr Glynn Litster, fromCooranbong, NSW, has just returned froma three-week teaching block at FultonCollege in the Bachelor of Educationprogram. “We thank him for stepping in atshort notice,” says Brian Hamilton,

department head of primaryteaching. “The BEd studentshave benefited from DrLitster’s expertise and exper-ience in the island fields ofthe Pacific.”

● Gary Christian (pictur-ed), domestic programsdirector for AdventistDevelopment and ReliefAgency (ADRA)–Australia,recently visited ADRA–Papua NewGuinea head-quarters in Lae toinvestigate re-establishing theADRA Appeal inPNG.—Tok Save

● Dr William Johnsson(pictured), the Australianeditor of the AdventistReview, will share his “bitter-sweet love affair” with thebook of Hebrews during aseminar at AvondaleCollege, August 22-24. Theseminar—presen-ted by AvondaleCollege church—

includes an open meeting wherehe will explain Hebrews’ relev-ance, and a panel discussion.Attendance is free.

● Desmond Doss, a Seventh-dayAdventist and the only noncombatant to beawarded the US Congressional Medal ofHonor, was one of four conscientiousobjectors featured in a BBC reportbroadcast on International ConscientiousObjectors Day, May 15. Mr Doss, as anarmy medic in the Second World War,saved the lives of 75 GIs, carrying themto safety.—ANN

The Federal member forWerriwa, Mark Latham

(Labor, pictured on left),officially opened the newmiddle-school buildings atthe Macarthur AdventistSchool on May 25. Hecongratulated Adventists onproviding the first purpose-built middle-school facilityin New South Wales.

“Students in Years 5 to 8 have special needs,” he told the 500 visitorsat the opening. “These 10- to 14-year-olds have unique academic,physical and pastoral needs.”

The new building contains four general-purpose classrooms, a fullyequipped science laboratory, computer room, library and toiletfacilities. The school has doubled its enrolment to over 150 in the pastfour years and is the fastest growing school in the Greater SydneyConference. The rapid growth matches that of housing in the greaterMacarthur district in south-western Sydney.

The vision for a Year 5 to 8 education has been the brainchild ofprincipal Jenny Gibbons (also pictured), who has completed specialiststudies in the needs of middle-school children.

“Children who normally leave for high school are just enteringpuberty and need a more secure learning environment,” she says.“They should start working from Year 5 with some specialist teachersin readiness for more independent learning at Year 9. At middleschool, they should be in an environment that encourages spiritualvalues. At this age they are making life choices.”

• Adventist publisher awarded • The Search to Newcastle • Fulton’s Health Week cleans up • ADRA Appeal back in PNG • Book of Hebrews study • War hero interviewed • and more

—Compiled by Kellie Hancock—

NSW’s purpose-built middle school

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June 28, 2003

F L A S H P O I N T

● Hayden Jackson (pictured), a 16-year-old from Macquarie College,Newcastle, NSW, broketwo All Schools records,won three events andplaced third at the NSWAll Schools SwimmingChampionships held atthe Sydney AquaticCentre, Homebush, onMay 9. At another recent meet, theAustralian Age Championships inBrisbane, he won two silver medals, anda gold medal in the Open Water Race(five kilometres).

● Students at the Auckland Seventh-day Adventist High School raised over$NZ300 to buy a bicycle for a PapuaNew Guineanwho recentlyhad his bikestolen. WillieBai (pictured)works in thePapua NewGuinea UnionMission printing department in Lae. MrBai, with a serious hip problem, had towalk 16 kilometres to work and backeach day. Sufficient money was raised topurchase the new bike and a lock.

● This is cheap advertising, and it isworking, reports Pastor DannyMilenkov of the Hamilton, North NewZealand, church. Their new billboardallows the church to advertise events,and Bill Brown (pictured) regularlychanges the wording to advertisesermon titles and events. Already thechurch has seen people drop in onSabbath mornings to see what ishappening.

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Off the record● To meet future demands, the Seventh-day Adventist Church needs to develop anew generation of leadership. That wasrecognised recently at the GeneralConference (GC) Spring meetings. GCvice-president Pastor Gerry Karst and DrMike Ryan, special assistant to the GCpresident for strategic planning, delivered asummary of research into the kind of worldAdventism will confront in approximatelyone generation from now. The church,which is adding five new churches and fivenew congregations each day, will needleadership attuned to the spiritual andecclesiastical unity of the church,supported by contextualised materials thatmake the church meaningful to localcultures. The church will convene asymposium prior to the 2005 GCSession in St Louis, Missouri, to

emphasise a shared vision, a commonmission and commitment to a coremessage for church leadership.

● As many as 10,000 people in thenorthern Iraqi city of Tel Afar havereceived emergency hygiene kits from theAdventist Development and Relief Agency(ADRA). Each kit includes soap, detergent,towels and sanitary items. ADRA is provid-ing immediate aid through relief assistance,and assessing long-term developmentprojects in other areas.—ANN

● “All of us are sinners, both those who areHIV-positive and those who are negative,”Dr Velile Wakaba, president of the SouthAfrica Union Conference, told delegates atthe opening of a conference on HIV/AIDSorganised by the church, in Harare,Zimbabwe. The event discussed ways toreach out to members suffering from thedeadly disease afflicting so much of Africa.Dr Wakaba said that those infected andaffected by HIV/AIDS should be treated inthe same way that Jesus Christ treatedlepers of New Testament times—withcompassion and help.—ANN

● A Christian minister, Pastor SundayMadumere, and six members of his familydied in an arson attack on their home inthe northern Nigerian city of Kano onApril 22. Christian leaders in the citybelieve Muslim militants set the fatal blaze.Pastor Madumere was known for hispreaching, which led many Muslims toconvert.—Crosswalk.com

● The Bible Society plans to publish a 90-page book telling New Testament stories in“fair-dinkum” Aussie English. Written byKel Richards, it employs Australian idiomand familiar expressions to tell such storiesas the Good Samaritan, or the Good Bloke.

Days and offeringsJuly 12—World Mission Budget OfferingJuly 19—Bible Sabbath (Bible Society)

Offering

Pioneers return toSydney churchChurch pioneers Ellen White, Harry

Firth and Pastor Robert Hare revistedKellyville on May 10. Harry Firth (BruceEvans, pictured, at right) and hisbrother, William, donated land for thefirst Kellyville church. Ellen White

(Robynne Beard, centre) preached in theoriginal church in the late 1800s. AndPastor Hare (Alan Bates, at left)preached in the “canvas chapel” atKellyville before the church was built.

This was a “preliminary build-up day”for the church’s 110th anniversarycelebrations birthday, reports RobynCrabtree, a communication secretary atthe church. The anniversary will becelebrated on July 5, 2003.

June 28, 2003

N E W S F R O N T

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New York, New York

The cause of religious freedom wasgiven a boost at the United Nations

(UN) with a “special consultative status”granted on May 1 to the InternationalReligious Liberty Association (IRLA).

Religious liberty advocates referred tothe UN decision as a “historic develop-ment,” and an affirmation of efforts to keepthe cause of religious liberty high on theinternational agenda.

“The granting of this status by the UNEconomic and Social Council (ECOSOC)opens the way for the IRLA to even furtheradvances in the cause of religious free-dom,” said Dr Denton Lotz, IRLA presid-ent and general secretary for the BaptistWorld Alliance.

This recognition means the IRLA is ableto make written and oral statements at UNsessions such as the Commission onHuman Rights, participate fully in UN-sponsored conferences, and interface withnational representatives from permanentmissions in both New York and Geneva.

Chartered in 1893, the association wasfirst predominantly involved in the UnitedStates and evolved into an internationaladvocacy organisation for religious free-

dom around the world in the mid-1940s.The IRLA was originally organised by

leaders of the Adventist Church to “protect,promote and defend” religious freedom,but its purpose, say IRLA officials, isuniversal and non-sectarian.

Today the association is a non-denominational international body and itserves as the umbrella organisation formore than 50 national religious freedomassociations throughout the world. Variousreligious traditions are represented on theBoard of Directors of the organisation.

“This is a highlysignificant step in theprogress of the assoc-iation,” adds Dr JohnGraz, IRLA secretary-general and director forPublic Affairs andReligious Liberty(PARL) at the General

Conference. “From our early beginnings, the IRLA

has consistently worked to advancereligious freedom as a fundamental humanright and now we are able to make greatercontributions on the international scene.

“I commend Dr Jonathan Gallagher [UN

liaison for PARL] and his team whoworked continuously for the past two-and-a-half years in making contacts at theUnited Nations and ensuring that ourIRLA application met the inquiries of theUN Economic and Social CouncilCommittee.”—ANN staff

International status for religious liberty

Dr John Graz.

Religious freedom groupformed in KazakhstanAlmaty, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has become the thirdMuslim country to establish a chapter

of the International Religious LibertyAssociation (IRLA).

The country has presented noopposition for religious groups that wantreligious freedom, says Dr John Graz,IRLA secretary-general. But, he says, theKazakhstan government and manygovernments in central Asia are verysensitive about religious freedom.

“They are afraid religious freedom willopen the door to religious extremists,” hesays. “They believe that many groups canuse religion with a hidden agenda.”—Wendi Rogers/ANN

Athens, Greece

The recent dedication of a new outreachand worship centre in Athens is a sign

of growth in Greece. “It is almost 24 years since I first visited

Keramikou Street in central Athens,”commented Pastor Peter Roennfeldt at theopening of the new church plant in Athenson May 17. Pastor Roennfeldt is anAustralian who is the church planting co-ordinator for the Trans-European Division.

“In 1979 there were about 50 peoplemeeting at Keramikou. Today more than200 people worship in five groups in thecentre of Athens, including the core groupsof four new church plants.”

The president of the Greek Mission,

Pastor Apostolos Maglis, is a strong believerin strategic church planting. Together withother local leaders he has fostered newchurch planters and plants. Six years ago aplan was developed to plant new groupsand churches across the country.

“We set a high standard for ourselves,”says Pastor Maglis. “We decided that wewould not organise a group into a churchuntil there were 80 baptised adults, trainedleaders, faithful stewardship and a commit-ment to plant another church.

“Six new groups have been formed inAthens, with four in the city centre. Thislast weekend we dedicated a new outreachcentre for one of the central city groups thatnow has 65 baptised adults. They believe

they will have 80 adults by August thisyear!”

Pastor Maglis, who is originally fromGreece, served as a pastor in Melbourne,Vic, and trained at Avondale College. Heconducts weekly training programs for newchurch planters and potential pastors.

“We look for ABC leaders,” he says. “Wewant leaders who are Active, Bold andCommitted.”

A five-storey block of flats was recentlypurchased in the centre of Athens toprovide further facilities for the expandingchurch plants. Outreach activities are beingconducted and plans developed for fourother areas of the city.—Bruce Manners/Church Planting News

Church in Greece on growth path

Avondale College, Cooranbong, NSW

Aformer student was asked, “How hasAvondale influenced your life?” She

responded, “It enabled me to take hold ofthe ethos and values of my Adventistfamily and transform it into something Iowned.”

At Avondale we identify as a Seventh-dayAdventist institution of higher learning. Weare a Christian community committed tonurturing students as whole persons,through the integration of spiritual, intel-lectual, professional and personal values,and equipping them for service in thechurch and society. We recognise andencourage individual talents and gifts, andwelcome students of various faith traditionsand convictions who support our values.

Avondale strives to facilitate “thedevelopment of the whole human being”by providing academic education andopportunities for service to the community,while encouraging students to take owner-ship of their relationships with God.Avondale endeavours to equip the studentswith spiritual foundations that will con-tinue to strengthen and develop throughtheir lifetimes.

An Adventist pastor commented, “I leftAvondale with the confidence that I hadsomething, in the world of Christian ideas,that would stand the test. Thirty-four yearslater the foundation provided has develop-ed into a personalised faith.”

It was the tools and the faith rather thaninformation that really made a differencefor this pastor.

One of the major features of the campusspiritual program is the Festival of Faith,also known as Week of Prayer. The mostrecent featured Pastor Litch Litchfield,chaplain at Collegedale Academy, Tenn-essee, USA. Staff and students alike wereinspired spiritually. Six students made decis-ions for baptism and many more indicated arecommitment to a life characterised bypersonal devotions.

When asked about her decision forbaptism, Michelle Bergman said, “My lifehas been impacted significantly by the care

and support ofstaff and studentsboth here atCollege and inhigh school.”

Extracurricularactivities such asthe ADRA Appeal,STORM Co trips,Red Shield Appealand Red CrossBlood Bank pro-vide communityservice oppor-tunities forstudents, engaging them in meeting theneeds of local and under-servicedcommunities.

Avondale staff and students have beeninvolved in STORM Co trips since 1999.This year four teams, involving more than60 staff and students, are going to Moree,Gwarbega, Walliga Lake (rural NSW) andKatherine (NT).

One of the repeat volunteers said, “Weare out serving communities that have solittle. Forced out of our comfort zones weare drawn closer to God. . . . I’m going backbecause sharing God’s love to the childrenis so rewarding.”

Avondale was established in Cooranbongin 1897. The founders were intentionalabout choosing an isolated, rural location.They hoped to provide an environment thatenabled the students to focus on theirtraining.

In addition to traditional academicsubjects, the “manual pursuits at the schoolwere to serve three practical purposes:providing food for the boarders andgenerating funds for the school, trainingmissionaries to be healthy and self-reliant,and enhancing survival skills for times ofadversity anticipated before the secondcoming of Christ.”

Avondale continues to provide skills forstudents to be self-reliant, with on-sitetraining in many areas through the studentemployment network.

Students in many courses also gain first-

hand experience through internships andprofessional experience placements. Whenasked about the value of the professionalexperience placement, an education studentresponded, “It reaffirmed my decision to doteaching, and really motivated me to just getdone and get out there.” She is now in herfirst year of teaching and enjoying it.

For some students, their internshiprequirements enable them to focus theircareer decisions; others make a completeshift finishing with a degree different fromthe one they commenced. During the up-coming midyear break some 240 educationstudents will have undertaken professionalexperience placements in schools aroundAustralia and New Zealand.

One of the key functions of Avondale isto provide the emerging work force for thechurch. The career goals of our membershave changed, and the professional accred-itation requirements necessary within andbeyond denominational employment havebecome more rigorous. Therefore Avondaleis continuously modifying and upgradingthe programs to provide relevant educationand courses for young people who wanttheir higher education in an environmentthat is authentically Christian and un-ashamedly Seventh-day Adventist.

The preparation of students for a highlycompetitive, fast-moving professionalworld with rapidly changing societalexpectations is one of Avondale’s keyresponsibilities

June 28, 2003

N E W S F R O N T

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Avondale College: Mission and ethos

June 28, 2003

N E W S F R O N T

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Townsville, Qld

Throughout the South Pacific Division,networks of young people and their

leaders are growing in support of eachother as part of the Underground move-ment. An online community regularlyinteracts in the Underground Forum<www.undergroundforum.org> and aseries of books has been produced toprovide material resources for small-group meetings.

The Underground is the Christ-centred small-group movement, launch-ed by the division in 2001. The focus hasbeen on involving young people inregular Underground group activitiesand the resource books have beendeveloped to offer study guides andmeeting ideas to these groups. A team ofcontributors, editors and consul-tants, headed by Jerry Unser, hasprepared the books.

“The real purpose of the Under-ground,” Mr Unser explains, “is toencourage a movement of youngpeople to meet in groups for Biblestudy, worship, fellowship, serviceand evangelism. At the core, theUnderground is not aboutprograms, but about active andbalanced study groups.

“These workbooks have beenpurpose-written to challengeyoung people to dig deep inScripture and stretch wide to serviceand outreach. They are full of stories,creative ideas and thought provokingquestions—but what has never beenpromoted before is that the Undergroundresources are not just for youth. Thereare applications for these books in manyareas of Christian life, from home to thechurch.”

To date, three workbooks have beenproduced—No Turning Back (an intro-duction to Christianity), One Heart at aTime (on the topic of faith sharing) and

Underground supportstructure grows

Avondale has extended its programs tomeet important church needs for thecontinuing education of its work force. Thedelivery of courses in a more flexiblemanner has been achieved throughintensive coursework and distance educat-ion. The Master of Education in ESL(English as a second language) curriculumhas been provided in Thailand, in liaisonwith the Thailand Mission. In four yearsthe program has had more than 37graduates.

Another example of flexible and mixedmode delivery is the Master of Leadershipand Management, which is a combinationof distance education and on-campusintensive coursework during July. Thisenables students with full-time employ-ment to engage in postgraduate study.Thirty students have graduated and 41 arecurrently studying this program. Themajority of students in this course arechurch administrators.

The Master of Ministry (with familyministry and youth ministry strands) isproviding current pastors with anopportunity to specialise and enhance theirskills during winter school intensives.

Avondale graduates work in all cornersof the globe, engaged in a wide range ofoccupations. For example, Gary Knowles,class of 1973, is a professor in Learning andTeaching Specialisation at the University ofToronto, Canada. Michelle Lewis, class of1990, is Program Manager for ADRA-Mongolia and has many tales about herextraordinary experiences in thatfascinating country. Peter Roennfeldt isserving at the Trans-European Division asthe Director of Ministerial and GlobalMission.

Each year Avondale graduates leave to beteachers, nurses, pastors, accountants,communicators, marketers, graphicdesigners and in many other professions.About 30 per cent of Avondale’s graduatesare offered and accept denominationalemployment, though many more apply.

Each year new students arrive and seniorstudents graduate. Avondale staff iscommitted to academic and spiritualdevelopment of each one. Seeing thechanges that occur in their lives is ourbiggest reward.—Geoffrey A Madigan,president

Power Unlimited (exploring the HolySpirit)—together with a handbook forleading Underground small groups. Thereare plans to develop further workbooks onthe topics of Christian lifestyle, the life ofChrist, proving the Bible and Bibleprophecy.

“Each Underground workbook is athemed 13-lesson Bible-study guidedesigned to be used as a personal journal,”says Mr Unser. “The self-discoveryapproach is used in contrast to a teachingguide. Underground studies are designedfor a group or individual to dig deep intoScripture and discover the rich treasure ofthe Word.”

The Underground workbooks areavailable through conference YouthDepartments or from union or the divisionyouth offices. They cost $A5 each.

While developed primarily for use inUnderground groups, Mr Unser suggeststhe ideas could be adapted to other smallgroups, prayer meetings, Sabbath schoolgroups or Sabbath-afternoon meetings.

“Our church is developing theseworkbooks for Underground groups,” hesays. “But there’s no reason why the rest ofus can’t take advantage of these resourcesand move toward spiritual revival thatmany of our young people are enjoy-ing.”—Nathan Brown

New resources are available for Underground and other uses.

June 28, 2003

F E A T U R E

Afew years ago, a young lad was takeninto custody in an Outback town.After being processed and inter-

viewed, and having been refused bail, hewas locked in the cells for the night. But heworried the station officers because heappeared to becoming depressed. Hecurled up in a foetal position and didn’tmove. He wouldn’t speak, so an officercame to me and asked if I could helpMichael.*

I agreed, but first prayed, asking for theright words to say.

At the cells, a suicide watch had beeninstituted. Cameras watched Michael’severy move. The cell door was opened andI went in. With assistance nearby and thesecurity camera, I felt safe enough. YoungMichael scared me, for I knew what he wascapable of. At that moment, though, hewas in need.

I sat down on the end of his bed.“Michael, will you speak with me?” Nothing.“Michael, will you speak with me?”Still no response. I repeated my question

three more times, but he wouldn’t respond.“Michael, can I help you?”Now he moved into a sitting position,

placing his head on his knees. I could seehe was crying. My heart took a flutter. Herewas a boy, crying, in need. My motherlyinstincts overcame my fear and I movedcloser, putting my arm on his shoulder.

“Michael, is there something I can do foryou?”

Now he lifted his head and looked at me.Then, with tears streaming down his face,said, “Marilyn, I want Mum.”

“If that’s what you want, then that’s whatI’ll do,” I replied.

I stood and turned to leave. “Give me 10minutes. I’ll bring her back.”

Michael looked directly at me. “Can youask her to bring my new baby brother,too?”

I left the cells. What had Icommitted myself to? It wasalready after 5 pm and beingwinter, darkness was falling.Now I had to go and get Naomi,a woman who disliked me.Actually, she scared me morethan did her son.

Time to pray again. Lord, if everI needed you, I need you now, Ibreathed.

My brain was racing,processing everything I knewabout this woman: I’m going topick up a woman who hates me.She’s the most feared person intown. I’m going to ask her to travelwith me in my own car. Am I mad?

I prayed again, asking for protectiveangels to protect me.

Even as I pulled to the curb in front ofNaomi’s house, I could tell from the yellingcoming from inside that she was in a badmood.

She walked to the front gate and barked:“Whadda you want?”

I told her I was there to take her to thepolice station with me. “Michael needsyou, Naomi. Right now. And he wants tosee the new baby.”

Naomi yelled to her children to get thebaby, then walked to the car. With the babyon her lap, we drove to the station.

“Stay with me,” I told her and we walkedstraight to the cells. Michael was sitting upwhen we walked in. A chair was broughtfor Naomi.

“Can you wait and take me home?” sheasked me.

Agreeing, I told her she had 20 minutes,then left mother and son and baby. As Iwalked by the duty officer, he asked how Icould stand having “that smelly, rough ladyin your car.” Oddly, I hadn’t noticed anysmell, and she’d also been quite nice to me.

When I returned to the cell, Michael was

sitting nursing his brother, his mother’sarm across his shoulders. I took the baby,then quietly Naomi and I left.

“Are you all right?” I asked as we drovethe short distance to the edge of town.

She nodded, asking me if I would buyMichael a lemonade, which I agreed to do.

Soon we were at her gate. She climbedout and walked through, the baby in herarms. The moment she entered the frontyard, it was as if a shroud had beenremoved. She was her old self, swearingand yelling at the children as she enteredthe house.

I drove off. Later that night, as I prayed aprayer of thanks to God, I cried.

We often hear “mission stories” of needsfar away, and wonder if God really doeshelp those people.

Well, I know He helped me in a real andtangible way that day and, since then, mylife has changed. I want to make myselfmore available to God, so that when Heneeds someone on the spot, He can counton me. r

* All names have been changed.

*Marilyn Reed writes from Bourke. NSW.

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Hometown missionaryby Marilyn Reed

June 28, 2003

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Hope is the expectation that somethingdesired will be attained. The poor,oppressed and marginalised may

hope for something better, but what ofthose who are “rich, and increased withgoods” (Revelation 3:17, KJV)? Is the hopeof seeing Jesus’ face and of being reunitedwith loved ones simply added value to analready comfortable existence? While thesethings are promised, they’re a consequenceand not the substance of God’s kingdom.

Both the rich man and Lazarus thebeggar lived in hope. At his death, Lazaruswas carried to Abraham’s side. The richman’s hope, however, remained unrealised.He was buried in hell. He’d failed to heedthe instruction of Moses and the prophets.

The biblical hope is founded on thereality of God and is promised to thosewho earnestly desire to be like Him. Thepsalmist declares: “Righteousness andjustice are the foundation of [God’s] throne. . .” (Psalm 89:14, NIV) and that He lovesjustice (see Psalm 99:4).

They’re attributes He looks for in Hispeople, too. It is the “just” He loves, andthe righteous who “will inherit the land”(Psalm 37:28, 29, NIV). Good is promisedto those who conduct their affairs justlyand generously (see Psalm 112:5).

God “defends the cause of the fatherlessand the widow, and loves the alien, givinghim food and clothing” (Deuteronomy10:18, NIV). “The righteous care aboutjustice for the poor, but the wicked have nosuch concern” (Proverbs 29:7, NIV).

This is more than charity. Christianity,and Christians, must challenge the socialand political structures that disregard therights of the poor and oppressed, entrenchpoverty and favour the rich and powerful:“Seek justice, encourage the oppressed.Defend the cause of the fatherless, pleadthe case of the widow” (Isaiah1:17, NIV).

There are many examples of the need forjustice. Mozambique, one of the world’s

cheapest sugar producers, finds it difficultto compete in the global market. TheEuropean Union, one of the mostexpensive producers, has some 40 per centof the market. Subsidies to farmers in richcountries coupled with tariff barriers costdeveloping countries double what theyreceive in aid.1

Some multinational corporations mini-mise production costs through exploitat-ion of cheap Third World labour. Wagesare insufficient to provide the basic necess-ities of life, health and safety standards areignored, and those who agitate for betterpay and conditions may be imprisoned.2, 3

Corporations erode the power of demo-cratically elected governments.4 Inter-national trade agreements under theauspices of the World Trade Organisation(WTO) are legally binding on countries,and national laws to protect health, safetyand the environment can be overturned onappeal to the WTO.

Our understanding of justice as Christ-ians must be founded in the Bible, not thelaws of the land. The prophet Isaiahdeclares woes upon those “who makeunjust laws” depriving the poor and themarginalised of their rights (Isaiah 10:1, 2,NIV).

The Old Testament, with its emphasis onjustice for the poor, forms Christianity’sethical foundation. Injustice is a con-sequence of sin. In the New Testament,Jesus came to restore God’s image andlikeness in humanity so that justice willagain rule. James warns rich oppressors(see James 5:1-6). And it is “with justice”that Jesus “judges and makes war” (Revel-ation 19:11, NIV).

Early in His public ministry Jesusannounced His mission in words reflectiveof Isaiah 61:1, 2: “The Spirit of the Lord ison me, because he has anointed me topreach good news to the poor. He has sentme to proclaim freedom for the prisoners

and recovery of sight to the blind, to releasethe oppressed, to proclaim the year of theLord’s favour” (Luke 4:18, 19, NIV).

“Isaiah is appropriately called theMessianic prophet.”5 The promised Mess-iah will “bring justice to the nations” andnot “be discouraged till he establishesjustice on earth” (Isaiah 42:1-4; see also 9:7;11:4; 32:1, 6; 51:4, 5).

Our lives are shaped by the things wehope for. If our hope is for materialprosperity and security, the more we havethe more contented we’ll be.

If justice is our passion, we will not besilent in the face of injustice. We will shareGod’s passion for fallen humanity. In lovewe will warn the unjust of God’s comingjudgment. We will extend to the unjustGod’s offer of grace. And we will proclaimto the world, in word and action, the justprinciples of His kingdom.

God has a passion for justice. He offersthe world the hope of a just future. Butwhat do you hope for? r

References1. B Francis, “Making a ‘big noise’ about fair trade,”Harambee, Vol xi, issue 4, November 2002.2. C Kernaghan, “Sweatshops” in A Roddick (ed),Take It Personally: How Globalization Affects Youand Powerful Ways to Challenge It, HarperCollins,London, 2000.3. P Bohle and M Quinlan, “The occupational healthand safety problem,” in P Bohle and M Quinlan(eds), Managing Occupational Health and Safety:A Multidisciplinary Approach (2nd edition),Macmillan, Melbourne, 2000.4. K Suter, In Defence of Globalisation, Universityof NSW Press, Sydney, 2000, pages 18, 19.5. The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,Vol 4, Review and Herald Publishing Association,Washington, 1955, page 91.

Ken Marsh writes from Sydney, where he works asthe South Pacific Division’s Occupational Health andSafety coordinator.

Our hope: God’s passion timeby Ken Marsh

June 28, 2003

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Do we, as a community of faith, have“the truth” but fail to understand it?If so, that would make us of all people

the most miserable because the beauty ofthe message has not migrated from ourheads to our hearts.

The whole content of the Scripturesproceeds in an elliptical orbit around theFirst and Second Advents.

Why is it not commonly understood thatthe only understanding of Revelation andlast-day events comes from the glowingmagnificence of the cross where we seethat what happened to the Head willhappen to the body? That Revelation isrepeatedly overlayed with the events of thecross?

Like transparencies laid one uponanother, we see the book of Revelationoverlaid with the sanctuary service and theHigh Priestly ministry of Christ, beginningin chapter one in the outer court, thenmoving through to the Most Holy Place.We see it overlaid with the Hebrew religiouscalendar, beginning at Passover and movingthrough the book to Tabernacles—allfulfilled in Christ. We see it overlaid withthe stories and events of the Old Testamentmoving through the typology of the crossand then moving into eschatological events.

Notice, for example, how the story ofElijah moves through the life of Christ andinto the church before reaching its climaxin the book of Revelation. Haven’t you everwondered why the three-and-a-half years ofElijah’s wilderness experience correlates tothe three-and-a-half years of Jesus’ ministryand the 1260 days of Revelation’sprophecies? The parallels are many.

This is the body reliving the life of itsHead. Wasn’t Jesus condemned for Hisreverence and obedience to God, like thethree Hebrews of Daniel 3 where thechurch and state unite to bring about thedeath decree?

And so it goes, Revelation is overlaid

with the stories of the Creation, the Flood,the Exodus, Babylonian captivity andmany of the high-profile lives of the OldTestament—all seen through the magnify-ing glass of the cross.

When we look at the plagues, forexample, we should see that according tothe pattern (chiastic structure, as Biblescholars call it) of Revelation, we can’tunderstand the plagues without its mirrorin the trumpets. These are a reverse imageof the days of Creation and are related tothe plagues of Egypt, but the majorsignificance is that they are a re-run of theplagues of the cross.

In the midday midnight of the darknessand excruciation of the cross, we beholdthe final fate of those who will experiencethe wrath of God, as they pay their ownpenalty for sin. The plagues are thereforeCalvary’s darkness, Calvary’s thirst,Calvary’s earthquake and Calvary’s blood.Jesus was crucified outside the city—treated like a leper, forsaken. We eitheraccept the fact that Jesus has experiencedthe wrath of God on our behalf or weexperience it ourselves.

The key to understanding our wholemessage is in Christ. If the remnant peopleof God are commandment keepers, howcould they think the Sabbath to be import-ant apart from Christ? The letter of the lawrequires that we cease our work for 24hours and thereby memorialise Creation.This acknowledges the fact that we are thecreated and He is the Creator.

But God’s people in the last days will domore than observe the letter of the law!Revelation paints a picture of a peopleliving the spirit of the law. Is it any wonderthen that those who receive the mark of thebeast “find no rest.” The relationshipbetween Revelation, the cross andCreation, when it comes to the Sabbath, isimperative to the experience of God’s last-day people.

When Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” Heechoed Creation’s completion and wastalking of our re-creation. As God rested onthe Sabbath, so He spent that first NewTestament Sabbath (or new covenantSabbath) in the tomb as a memorial of thisnew rest.

For followers of Jesus, when we keep theSabbath we now not only keep the physicalrest—the letter—but we rest in a finishedwork of salvation—the spirit. God’s last-day people who are keeping (cherishingand upholding) the principles of God’skingdom are those who are resting in afinished work!

God’s people do not have to labour fortheir salvation. They are at rest with theAuthor of life. It isn’t our performance butHis that counts. The outcome of the racehas already been assured, for He won it onour behalf.

We still have to get on the track and runthe race, pressing toward the prize of thehigh calling in Christ Jesus that is offeredto all who accept its outcome as a personalgift. And keeping the Sabbath onlybecomes the outward sign of an inwardcondition—obedience or disobedience;rest or works. Let us then, in all ourinterpretations of the Scriptures and doct-rine, set our sights on Jesus who is Authorand Finisher of our faith.

If we remain locked into the legalism ofthe Sabbath instead of the “spiritual rest,”and if we focus on last-day events in aChrist-less way and hold doctrines notentirely centred on Jesus, then we remainof all people most miserable. r

Ross Chadwick is pastor of The Shed Communitychurch, a “contemporary congregation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church” in Shell Harbour, NSW.

The cross and last-day eventsby Ross Chadwick

Isit on my bed, reading. Next to the bed isa bedside table. None of the drawersopen or close properly, so most of my

belongings are piled on top of it. Onanother small table, a black-and-orangelizard walks over my books, stopping everynow and then to perform funny little push-ups.

A light rain is failing (I can see it througha hole in my ceiling) and squirrels playingon the tin roof keep sleep away.

I’ve been thinking about home, lookingat a map and trying to comprehend thedistance between here and there. I’m a longway from home. In fact, I’m a long wayfrom many “home” things: telephone,television, a regular electricity supply, hotwater—any running water for that matter.

Here you can’t go down to the shop or atakeaway (although you can buy cookedrats on a stick). It’s a totally different world,and I’ve been wondering why.

I’m not really thinking about thecomforts and conveniences of Westernlife—cars, computers, neat houses andgood hospitals—I’m concerned as to whyso many people here are fighting to justsurvive.

Here, diseases unheard of at home lowerlife expectancy to just 45 years. Here,people know about God and His goodness,and spend a lot of time praying, for it is allthey can do. Here, life is a downward slope:no money, no food, no quality of life, nohealth and premature death.

I recall, as a young person, listening tomissionaries speaking at church. I feltenvious of the role they played in fulfillingthe gospel commission in those far-offlands. Now, some 20 years on, it seems ouronly taste of the mission field is what wehear in Sabbath school.

Has your heart been immunised againstimages of starving children by too manyappeals? Do television news images of theirdiseased and dying parents still affect you?

If not, how do you ration-alise the apathy?

I look out the windowtoward the missionhospital. At risk, right now,is its Residency TrainingProgram, which is indanger of failing, not froma lack of money (althoughmore wouldn’t go astray)or equipment (and wecould always use more). No, it’s from a lackof appropriate, qualified personnel—long-and short-term, professional, skilled andunskilled—who are willing to live withouthome comforts for a time.

If that’s you, perhaps plan to do morethan just give an offering, more thanoffering a prayer for missionaries and thosein their care. Shift your focus away fromyour own church’s needs for a moment andconsider such places as Ile-Ife, Nigeria, inthe 10-40 window, where many aredying—physically, emotionally as well asspiritually. Consider something moredirect and tangible.

Sabbath has now passed. Outside it’spitch black, but my room is filled with the

soft light of a candle flaming in a brokenholder. Dozens of mosquitoes buzz withanticipation at my door. The squirrels havefinished their game, and their noise hasbeen replaced with that of croaking frogs.The steady beat of African drums comesfrom a night vigil at the church behind thecompound.

A large puddle has formed on my floor,as it’s now teeming with rain. (Ah! Runningwater at last!) r

Denise Ellson, a physiotherapist from Brisbane,wrote this while working as a volunteer at thechurch’s hospital at Ile-Ife, Nigeria. She has alsoworked as a volunteer in the USA and Bolivia.

June 28, 2003

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Where are the missionaries?by Denise Ellson

What if ...... horses didn't like

grass?

They would getvery hungry!

Horses graze ongrass for up to

16 hours a day!God designed their

teeth and digestive systemespecially for eating grass.

Just for children

June 28, 200312

Rainy dazeDon and Aileen Sforcina, Vic

We’re disappointed by the opinion ex-pressed by Brian Timms in “Thoughts onthe drought and prayer” (May 3). Webelong to that “childish” class who believeGod can do anything if we have enoughfaith, and that includes giving rain in timesof drought, despite naturally occurringweather patterns.

God created the world in six days, partedthe Red Sea, made the sun stand still,walked on water and commandedobedience from the wind and waves. CanHe send rain? We certainly believe so.

Our God is a loving Father who wants“to give good things to them that ask him(Matthew 7:11, KJV). He wants us torecognise our dependence upon Him.He wants us to ask Him to meet our needs,and He appreciates our thankfulness whenthey’re met. He invites us, “Call upon me inthe day of trouble . . .” (Psalm 50:15, KJV).

We live in rural Victoria with the evi-dence of drought everywhere. We dependon our tanks and dams for water, and Godhas always provided rain to supply ourneeds at just the right time. Let us all unitein prayer for rain for the wider communityand for wisdom in the use and conserv-ation of our water resources.

Clive Nevell, Qld

Brian Timms’s article clearly showsinsensitivity to those on the land and tothose who depend on those who work onthe land. I found the article offensive in theway he referred to those who pray for reliefin times of drought as having a “cave-person mentality” and also his reference toGod being “a big old man sitting up in thesky, turning on and off levers and taps.”

An appropriate apology from the writerand the editor is needed for allowing suchan article to be published in RECORD.

G R Stark, Qld

Some of Brian Timms’s remarks arevery insensitive and offensive to farmers.I’m not a farmer, but have sympathy forthose who have suffered extreme hard-ship.

Dr Timms would not know what theysuffered unless he went through it, so forhim to say that to pray for rain is cavemantheology suggests that people who prayfor rain are primitive and ignorant. To saythat praying for rain indicates a childishpicture of God insults many sincereChristians, as God invites us to bring ourpetitions to Him in times of trouble.According to James, the “prayer of arighteous man avails much” (5:16).

New ministryWilma Falcke, SA

Reading “All-round ministry” (Letters,May 24) reminded me of a time some 21years ago when, as a young married, Icooked at a singles camp. It was there thatI discovered the fantastic ministryprovided for singles. Just a few years later,as a single mum, I needed that ministryand have been involved in its leadership.

When Women’s Ministries came along, Ilikewise enjoyed a new facet of ourchurch’s many ministries. But now, havinga profoundly deaf friend attending church,I’ve discovered yet another ministryneed—a ministry for the deaf.

My deaf friend would read (RECORD,usually) during the church service, as herlip-reading is inadequate. However, by my

keying the spoken word of the preacheron a borrowed laptop computer (I’m atrained court reporter), she’s able to readthe sermon almost as soon as it is said.

In the future we hope to have real-timespeech converted through a voice-recog-nition program directly into text, but thiswill require a new computer and software.

It there’s anyone interested in this formof ministry, they should email me at<wfalcke@hotmail.com>.

A poor lessonSylvia Oostewegel, NSW

I’ve read the children’s “What if . . .”series with increasing dismay, seeing Goddepicted as having given animalsattributes that allow them to prey onothers, escape predators and, in the case ofthe snake, slither through grass. Godnever intended animals to prey on eachother; it’s a perversion of His intention forsuch attributes and ocurred at the Fall.

God created animals to live in harmony.It’s this lesson that we must teach ourchildren.

L E T T E R S

We depend on our own tanks and dams for water,and God has always provided rain to supply our

needs at just the right time.

Note: Views in Letters do not necessarily represent those of theeditors or the denomination. Letters should be less than 250words, and writers must include their name, address and phonenumber. All letters are edited to meet space and literaryrequirements, but the author’s original meaning will not bechanged. Not all letters received are published. See masthead(page 2) for contact details.

Just a coincidence

June 28, 2003

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AnniversariesMarshall, Cyril and Agnes (nee Cripps)were married on 23.1.43 in St Paul’schurch, Wanganui, NNZ. They celebratedtheir 60th wedding anniversary in Auck-land at the home of their son, Roger. Cyriland Agnes have two sons, seven grand-children and eight great-grandchildren. As

part of thece lebra -tions theytravelledth roughb o t hislands ofNZ visit-ing rela-tives andf r i e n d s .Being past

members of the Wanganui church, theywere guests of honour at a surprise lunch-eon. They also received congratulationmessages from Her Majesty the Queen andother government dignitaries.

Penman, William and Elaine (neeDavidson) were married 30.4.53 at PortKembla, NSW. Fifty years later they cel-ebrated their special day with friends ofWollongong SDA church at OlivineCoso’s home. A lovely luncheon, cakeand flowers were enjoyed by all.

WeddingsClement—O’Brien. Peter JamesClement and Kerrie Anne O’Brien weremarried on 16.2.03 in the Forster-Tuncur-ry Adventist church, Tuncurry, NSW.

Wilfred Pascoe

Moore—Hooi. Kenneth Moore, son ofHonor Mays (Laurieton, NSW), and JuneHooi, daughter of Joy Currie (WestHaven), were married on 1.6.03 in theTaree Adventist church. Lyndon Thrift

ObituariesEastwood, Mavis Lillian, born28.9.1923 at Geelong, Vic; died19.5.03 at Geelong. She is survived byher sons, Ian, Guy and Dale; theirspouses; her daughter, Glennie; Glen-nie’s husband; and her grandchildren.Mavis was dearly loved and deeplyrespected by all who knew her, andwith her family she formed a wonder-ful influence for good throughout thecommunity. Russell Kranz

Gersbach, Lance Russell, born19.11.1942 in Perth, WA; died 18.5.03 atAtoifi Hospital, Malaita, Solomon Islands.On 3.9.89 he married Jean Tilley. He issurvived by his wife; and his daughters,Louise and Anita (all of Caves Beach,NSW). Lance was an accountant. He wasserving as business manager at AtoifiHospital, Solomon Islands, for one year,

together with his family. While living inAustralia he worshipped at Charlestownchurch, NSW. Desmond Ford

Alwyn Gersbach, Graeme Loftus

Kidcaff, Erna Doris (nee Ebner), born21.6.1917 at Mackay, Qld; died 18.5.03in Yeppoon Mater Hospital. She is sur-vived by her daughters, Fay Brigiti(Ayr) and Doreen Ganter (Yeppoon);her sisters, Winnie Darwin (Ayr), SallyMorgan (Mackay); her brother, DennisEbner (Adelaide, SA); her five grand-children; and 10 great-grandchildren.Erna was a beautiful Christian person,who always put the needs of othersbefore her own. She remained strong inthe Lord Jesus and persevered to thevery end. She is sadly missed.

Geoff Donovan

Lewis, Dorothy Phylis, born 14.8.1923at Narrabeen, NSW; died 21.5.03 inLogan Hospital, Brisbane, Qld. She waspredeceased by her brother, Leslie. She issurvived by her brothers and sisters,Lionel (Coffs Harbour), Joan Dunn(Eight Mile Plains), Ken (Tuncurry), Bob(Taree), Joy Killin (Cleveland, Qld), DrAlan (Newcastle, NSW), Dr John(Wahroonga) and Dr Terry (Loma Linda,California, USA). She treated her nephewand nieces as her own children. Philserved the Adventist church as a secretaryfor over 40 years, including Advent Radio(Melbourne, Vic), Voice of Prophecy(Sydney, NSW), PNG, Singapore andSouth Pacific Division (Sydney). Philloved her family, church and Lord.

André van Rensburg

McNicol, William Warwick (Jim),born 2.7.1921 at Fremantle, WA; died14.5.03 in Fremantle Hospital. In 1943he married Eileen. He is survived byhis wife; his children, Robyn Oakes,Glennis Harders and Kaye McNicol;his seven grandchildren; and eightgreat-grandchildren. Jim grew up inFremantle. He was a champion swim-mer who loved the sea.

Andrew Skeggs, Keith Godfrey

Martin, Ella Jean, born 19.7.1901 atNarridy, SA; died 22.9.02 in Perth, WA.On 6.12.27 she married Syd, who prede-ceased her in 1971. She is survived byher children, Elizabeth Monks (Perth),Suzanne Brown (Busselton), John(Albany) and Mary Reye (Springwood,Qld). Jean was a long-serving member ofthe Albany church and renowned for hercaring disposition of service above self.

James Greensill

Miller—Howells, Nerida Ruth, born5.9.1927 in Sydney, NSW; died 7.5.03 atCorowa. She was predeceased by her firsthusband, Eric Miller. She is survived byher second husband, Ron Howells(Corowa); her children and their spous-es, Chris and Terry Gardiner (Melbourne,Vic), David and Irene (Blackheath,NSW), Peter and Julie (Millthorpe); andher nine grandchildren. Nerida was a lov-ing mother and a dedicated school-teacher, who in retirement visited Thai-land on numerous occasions as a volun-teer to the Karen people.

Walton PittMichael Parker, David Erickson

Deputy Vice-ChancellorPacific Adventist University, Port Moresby, PNG

The Pacific Adventist University (PAU) Board is seeking expressions of interest and/ornominations for the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, commencing January 2004.

Essential● A strong background in tertiary-level teaching and administration.● Appropriate qualifications to PhD level.● A passion for the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Desirable● A sound working knowledge of the church and its operations.● Highly developed organisational skills.● Eligible for appointment to the academic rank of Associate Professor or Professor,

including a publications record with refereed journals.● Extensive experience in administration, preferably including educational administration

and curriculum development.● Extensive experience in a multicultural environment, with demonstrable people skills

including the ability to relate well to young people.● Effective communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to convince and

persuade audiences.● Financial perceptiveness, including the ability to understand and work within budgetary

constraints.● A high level of computer literacy.

All inquiries, expressions of interest or nominations should be received on or before July21, 2003, and directed to:

Pastor Laurie EvansChancellor: Pacific Adventist UniversityLocked Bag 2014Wahroonga NSW 2076Email: levans@adventist.org.auFax: (02) 9489 1713Phone: (02) 9847 3211

Nominations should include the written endorsement from the person being nominated.The appointing body reserves the right to fill this position at its discretion.

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June 28, 2003

N O T I C E B O A R D

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Misso, Ruby, born 1929 in Bombay, India;died 6.5.03 in Perth, WA. She is survivedby her daughters, Adrienne, Olivia (bothof Perth) and Lorna (Canada); her sixgrandchildren; and one great-grandchild.She became a naturalised Australian in2000 and will be missed by the membersof Morley SDA church. Brett Townend

Olita’a, Ofotelia, born 1.1.1949 onLaulasi Island, Langalang Lagoon, Malaita,Solomon Islands; died 20.5.03 in NumberNine Hospital, Honiara, Solomon Islands.He is survived by his wife, Meri (nee Bara-ki); his daughters, Gloria Lomani (both ofFiji), Christine Naivolasia (SolomonIslands), Diana Ledua (Papua NewGuinea); and his son, Ofotelia Olita’a, Jr(Fiji). Ofotelia faithfully served for 25years in the church education system as anadministrator, teacher and musician in theSolomon Islands, Vanuatu, and finally atFulton College, until he retired in May2000. He was a wonderful father, husband,co-worker and friend; a friendly personand an inspirational musician to all whoknew him. Elisapesi Latu

Scale, Dulcie Jeanne, born 15.4.1920 inMelbourne, Vic; died 25.5.03 in WyongHospital, NSW. She was predeceased byher husband, Norman, in 1988. She is sur-vived by her sons, Elwyn, Geoffrey andWarren; their spouses; and her six grand-children. At the funeral her sons told ofher life and faith and missionary endeav-ours in numerous parts of the world. Twoof her granddaughters presented a musicalitem as their tribute to her memory.

Lester Hawkes

Simpson, Douglas, born 28.12.1929 inAberdeenshire, Scotland; died 13.5.03 atCooranbong, NSW. On 28.7.56 he mar-ried Eveline Fraser. He is survived by hiswife; his children, Sheila (Morisset),Douglas (Dubbo), James and Irene(Cooranbong), Shane (Morisset) andBruce (Sutton Grange, Vic); their spous-es; and his 12 grandchildren. Douglashelped to build the Bendigo (Vic) church,as well as being assistant Pathfinderdirector. He worked for Sanitarium from1975 until his retirement in 1994. He wasactively involved in the Avondale Memo-rial church, Cooranbong; as well as flyingwith the Adventist Aviation Associationon their mission outreaches.

Walt Hammond, Tom Turner

Smith, Ivy Lorna (nee Cock), born1.9.1911 at Drouin, Vic; died 9.5.03 atTraralgon. On 21.10.39 she marriedHarry, who predeceased her in 1972. Sheis survived by her son, Noel; her fourgrandchildren; and her three great-grand-children. Lorna lived in Traralgon formore than 50 years and suffered ill healthfor many years. Harold Waldrip

Tahitahi, Rina, born at Northland,NNZ; died 17.4.03 at home inWhangarei. She is survived by her hus-band, David (Whangarei); her children;and her grandchildren. Ken Curtis

Tucker, Nellie Gwendoline (neeKnowles), born 25.5.1910 at Cummera-gunga Mission Station, near Echuca, Vic;died 20.5.03 in the Charles HarrisonMemorial Home, Cooranbong. In 1936

EditorSigns Publishing Company

Warburton, Victoria

The South Pacific Division is seeking expressions of interest and/ornominations for the position of Editor at the Signs Publishing Company.

Essential● A degree in theology, education, journalism or appropriate equivalent.● A documented background in quality writing.● A strong aptitude for journalism.● A passion for the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Desirable● A sound understanding of the SPD and its operations.● Appreciation and sensitivity to different cultures.● Highly developed organisational skills.● Good interpersonal skills.

The commencing date is January 2004.

All inquiries, expressions of interest or nominations should be received on orbefore July 21, 2003, and directed to:

Dr Barry OliverGeneral SecretarySouth Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist ChurchLocked Bag 2014Wahroonga NSW 2076Email: boliver@adventist.org.auFax: (02) 9489 1713Phone: (02) 9847 3222

Nominations should include the written endorsement from the person beingnominated. The appointing body reserves the right to fill this position at itsdiscretion.

June 28, 2003

N O T I C E B O A R D

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As you plan for the future, make sure your wishes are clearly

understood by your family and loved ones - do you have a Will?

One way to make provision for your favorite charity, like

Avondale, is in form of a bequest. You may choose to use

personal assets. These could include but are not limited to artwork, stocks, bonds, real estate and vehicles.

For an informative brochure about

Wills and/or Bequests write or call:

Avondale Development and

Alumni Relations Office

PO Box 19 Cooranbong 2265

AUSTRALIA

+61 2 4980 2284

www.avondale.edu.au g i f t s w i t h v i s i o n

SERGE - “One who had more pleasure in giving than receiving.”

DORIS - “Being there and providing whenever needed.”

SERGE FELIX, Graduate in Theology, 1974

she graduated from the Bible WorkersCourse at Avondale. Her distinguishedservice record was in the SNZ and Victo-rian Conferences; also the Bible corre-spondence schools in Wahroonga, NSW,and Auckland, NNZ, where she was thedirector. In retirement she married RusselDay, in 1978, who predeceased her in1980. In 1982 she married Pastor EvanTucker, who predeceased her in 1993.Nellie “adopted” several children, whomalong with nephews and nieces and theirfamilies, remember Aunty Nellie withaffection. She is sadly missed.

Desmond HillsClaude Judd, Austin Fletcher

Yap, Francis, born 25.11.1952 inMalaysia; died suddenly 25.4.03 at homein Robina, Qld. He is survived by his wife,Doreen; his son, Clarence; and his daugh-ter, Clarissa (all of Gold Coast). Franciswas a great father, husband and churchmember; loved by all. Peter Stojanovic

AdvertisementsNote: Neither the editor, Signs Publish-ing Company, nor the Seventh-dayAdventist Church is responsible for thequality of goods or services advertised.

Publication does not indicate endorse-ment of a product or service. Advertise-ments approved by the editor will beinserted at the following rates: first 30words or less, $A33; each additionalword, $A1.65. For your advertisement toappear, payment must be enclosed. Clas-sified advertisements in RECORD are avail-able to Seventh-day Adventist members,churches and institutions only.

Two PhD scholarships available.The scholarships pay $A23,000 perannum tax free for three years for full-time study towards a PhD degree in Pub-lic Health, commencing August 2003.One project on lifestyle factors and dis-ease is at Deakin University, Melbourne,Vic. The other, on the benefits of Break-fast Club programs, is at WollongongUniversity. It may be possible to studyeither project from Sydney or Cooran-bong, NSW. Applicants should hold anhonours degree or higher in a relevantfield. For further information email<john.ashton@sanitartium.com.au>.

Spotswood SDA church 50thanniversary—July 19, 2003. Pastmembers, pastors and friends ofSpotswood (Vic) church are invited toreturn to commemorate the 50thanniversary. For inquiries please email<jtahud@iprimus.com.au> or phonePastor Lawty on (03) 9742 4475.

Organ for sale—Thomas Playmatewith orchestral keys. Double keyboardwith colour glow for learners. $A500.Phone (02) 6662 7161.

Digital photography. Like a camerabut don’t know where to start? Have acamera but want to improve your skills?Give Andrew a call on 0411 078 382 orsee <www.ircomm.com.au>.

A1 Rent-a-Car Christchurch(NZ). “Thrifty” cars, vans from$NZ49/day, “Budget” cars from$NZ39/day all inclusive (5/10 day min-imum). Free pick-up. Phone 0011 64 3349 8022; fax 0011 64 3 349 8218.Check our web calculator <http://www.a1rentacar.co.nz>.

Cedarvale Health and LifestyleRetreat (2 hours south of Sydney, NSW)has vacancies for a massage therapist andan office and/or promotions manager withQuickbooks experience. For inquiriesphone (02) 4465 1362.

Cashflow positive property invest-ment for under $A100,000. Return isgovernment pension indexed and inexcess of 6.5% net plus capital growth.Phone (02) 9651 7940 for information.

FinallyIf you have teenagers inyour house, you’ll find itdifficult to understand howfarmers could possiblygrow a surplus of food.

Positions vacant▲ Vacancies—Sydney Adventist Hospital. A number of vacancies currentlyexist within the hospital, including opportunities in management, nursing and non-nursing areas. With the recent opening of the Child-Care Centre, as well as theexisting staff benefits, including salary sacrificing/packaging opportunities, heatedswimming pool, tennis courts, refurbished wards, and an active staff social club, webelieve we have it all covered to provide you with a satisfying and rewarding place towork. For further information please contact Trevor Crabbe in Human Resources on(02) 9487 9233; or email <trevorc@sah.org.au>.

▲ Principal—Heritage College (Vic). Located in the fastest growthcorridor in Australia, this rapidly expanding Adventist school is adding the firstyear of secondary schooling for 2004. The conference vision is for this school togrow to a complete double stream program by 2015.▲ Principal—Nunawading Adventist College (Vic). This quality doublestream Year 7–12 school is developing its site for maximum impact on the localcommunity. With an enrolment of 220 students with adjacent primary school of150 students, the school is expanding its vision for outreach.For further information regarding these two positions please contact LyndonChapman, Education Director, Victoria on (03) 9259 2151; or email<lchapman@adventist.org.au> no later than July 15, 2003.