grapevine - seventh-day adventist church in australia

GrapevineNEWS FROM THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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sa.adventist.org.auSouth Australia

I WILL BUILD MY CHURCHPAGE 2

COMMUNICATING DURING COVID PAGE 18

July-August 2020

2 July-August 2020

from the President

“I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH...”At the time of writing this article the World Health Organisation has reported a record daily increase in global coronavirus cases. The John Hopkins University COVID-19 Dashboard lists 13,438,886 global cases, with deaths increasing to 581,103; with the daily toll steady at roughly 5,000 per day. The United States of America has recorded just under 3.5 million confirmed cases followed by Brazil nudging 2 million and India nearing 1 million. It is easy just to see these statistics as just that while forgetting that each number represents a life, a family member, a friend or a colleague.

In Australia we have recently witnessed new clusters and waves in some of our largest cities resulting in lockdowns and the reinstating of more stringent restrictions. Other states have responded by closing their borders. The economic costs are also significant. 835,000 people have lost their jobs since March. The Federal Government has forked out a record amount of financial assistance during the coronavirus pandemic. An ABC News article notes that the economic measures reach a tally of 135 billion. Federal Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, estimated the shutdown caused by the pandemic cost the economy $4 billion a week, and Victoria’s second lockdown would cost around $1 billion a week. In addition to the economic costs, are the social and emotional toll that this will take on individuals, families and society for years to come.

As a Church we too have been impacted. Our schools, some ADRA initiatives and our congregations have all encountered challenges that we have not experienced previously in Australia. Who would have thought in January this year that our churches would be closed for months? Perhaps the new normal reminds us that many of the things which we have taken for granted in Australia are more uncertain than we had previously imagined. How do we as individuals and as a Church respond? What will church look like going forward? What will happen with community and how will mission be impacted?

As I contemplate these and other questions, I am reminded of the early New Testament Church which is rightly upheld as the model. It is easy to focus on its rapid growth, spiritual gifts and fellowship, but how frequently do we consider the challenges and uncertainties it faced? As we study the book of Acts, we discover that growth occurred in spite of internal and external opposition.

The first half of the book of Acts reveals the following internal challenges that beset the early Church. In its infancy the Church had to deal with deception and fraud committed by Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5). As the Church grew dissension arose between the Greek and Jewish Christians regarding inequality with welfare support (Acts 6). Peter encountered hostility from Jewish Christians in Jerusalem after he had ministered to Cornelius a God-fearing Gentile in Caesarea. “Those of the circumcision contended with him, saying, ‘You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!’” (Acts 11:2). Clearly God’s vision for the Church was more expansive than the narrow focus of many of the early believers (See Acts 1:8).

The external challenges that the Church faced were frequent, significant and from a human perspective, perhaps for some even insurmountable. Again, a survey of the first half of the book highlights the following:• Warned not to speak in the name of Jesus – “But

so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.”” (Acts 4:17, NKJV, see also Acts 5:27-28, 40 where they are also beaten)

• Experienced slander and abuse – “When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy. They began to contradict what Paul was saying and heaped abuse on him.” (Acts 13:45, TNIV)

• Suffered hardship due to famine – “Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world.” (Acts 11:28, NKJV). The believers determined to alleviate this by sending relief to fellow Christians in Judea (v. 29).

• Apostles threatened, arrested and imprisoned – “Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with indignation, and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison.” (Acts 5:17–18, NKJV) (See also Acts 4:1-3, 17, 21, 29; 12:1-3, 5)

• Christians harassed and threatened – “Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church.” (Acts 12:1, NKJV)

The Grapevine | sa.adventist.org.au 3

• Christians persecuted – After the murder of Stephen we are told, “at that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem… As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” (Acts 8:1-3, NKJV) (See also Acts 9;13-14, 21; 11:19; 13:50)

• Christians displaced – As a result of the great persecution launched against the Church, the believers, except for the apostles, fled their homes becoming refugees. “They were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.” (Acts 8:1, NKJV). Others fled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch (Acts 11:19)

• Plots to kill Paul – After Paul’s conversion he was able to ‘confound the Jews’ (Acts 9:22). “Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him.” (Acts 9:23, NKJV) (See also Acts 9:23-24, 29)

• Church leaders murdered – Stephen was falsely accused and tried by the Jewish religious leaders.

His testimony of God’s workings cut them to their hearts “and they cast him out of the city and stoned him.” (Acts 7:58, NKJV). (Later Herod killed the apostle James and seeing that it pleased the Jews he planned a similar fate for Peter (Acts 12:1-4).

In spite of and often because of the challenges the believers experienced, the Church grew and prospered. “Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.” (Acts 9:31, NKJV) (See also Acts 2:41, 47; 4:4; 5:14; 6:1, 7).

So how can we the church today flourish and prosper in uncertain times? Again, it is found in the book of Acts:• Prayer is central – and integral to the life and

function of the church (Acts 1:14, 24, 2:42; 3:1; 4:31; 6:4, 6; 8:15, 22, 24; 9:40; 10:2, 4, 9, 30, 31, 48; 11:5; 12:5, 12; 13:3)

• Filled and directed by the Holy Spirit - (Acts 1:8; 2:4; 3:8, 31; 5:32; 6:5; 7:55; 8:15-17, 39; 9:31; 10:44-48; 11:15-17, 24; 13:2, 4, 9, 52)

• Preaching is paramount – the public proclamation of the word of God in the first half of the book of Acts features in every chapter except 12

• Personal testimony – the power of a personal testimony inspired the early Church and also was a powerful evangelism tool to grow the Church

• (Acts 4:8-12, 19-20; 8:25; 10:36-43; 12:17, 29-32; 13:28-31)

“...Prayer is central- and integral to the life and function of the church...”

Pastor David ButcherPresident, SA Conference

• Fellowshipping together and supporting each other – for the Church to grow loving relationships needed to exist amongst the members (Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-37; 11:28-30; 5:42).

The challenge we all face is in light of the pandemic as Seventh-day Adventist Christians is to refocus on why we exist, on what we are called to and importantly how we as individuals can fulfil the calling that God has given to us. Be prayerful, be willing be daring and be creative.

Remember it is all about Jesus and His mission.

God’s continued blessings

Pr. David

4 July-August 2020

from the Secretary

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEBelow are just a few of the highlights from the Executive Committee, Conference and Schools Boards for the first 6 months of 2020:

Executive Committee• The Australian Union Conference Church Structure Review gave a presentation on the progress with the

Church Structure review.

• The Executive Committee received reports from new church plants and is working with existing church plants to help them progress to Company status.

Church Ltd• The refurbishment of the Port Augusta church property was chosen as the Big Camp project offering.

• The decision to cancel Big Camp 2020 was made due to COVID 19 and a virtual Big Camp was organised in its place. As at 30 June, $27,378.38 has been raised for the Big Camp Project offering - refurbishment of the Port Augusta church property.

• Modelling was done on the possible impact of COVID 19 on the finances of the Conference in 2020.

Schools Ltd• A consultant was engaged to facilitate a Strategic Planning day with the SA Schools Board and school

leaders in order to identify future directions for Seventh-day Adventist Schools in South Australia.

• Policies and guidelines were developed by the schools for learning from home during the COVID-19 restrictions.

• Additional classroom space has been added at Prescott College in the form of demountable buildings.


PASTORS ADJUST TO MINISTRY DURING COVIDWhen COVID 19 restrictions hit us in March this year, it affected the work of our pastors in many ways. Worship services were suspended and suddenly the pastors were finding other ways to connect with their churches and members.

Seminars, Bible studies and other face-to-face programs were either ceased or moved to online. Home visits were restricted, board and business meetings were paused and pastors adjusted to other means of communicating.

Our pastors have shown great resilience and adaptability during COVID as they have adjusted to these changes. They have learnt how to master Zoom for prayer meetings, Bible studies and seminars. Many of our pastors have developed or improved the livestreaming of worship services and learnt other forms of technology to continue to minister.

We have been meeting with our pastors on a weekly basis ever since the restrictions began. These weekly meetings via Zoom have been a great way to keep pastors informed of the government regulations and changes affecting churches and public gatherings. They have also been a time of support, prayer and networking as a team.

Pastor Joseph Maticic

Ministerial Secretary

When COVID restrictions eased, we were able to have our first face-to-face ministers meeting in late June. At this meeting, we spent time sharing what things we have learnt during COVID and what this means for our churches going forward.

These are some of the questions we explored:• What about our Sabbath services is limiting

us from achieving mission?

• What have we learnt during the period of church closure? What have we gained?

What have we missed?

• Of the things that emerged during COVID lockdown, what do we want to keep going forward?

The closure of worship services has provided a chance for us to pause and reflect on how we do church and to look at how we can be more effective in mission and more faithful to the New Testament model of church.

6 July-August 2020

Those of you who do a lot of gardening may be familiar with the principle of “reversion to type”. This is the process whereby succeeding generations of a specially-bred or hybrid plant gradually turn back into the common variety as found in nature, unless special care is taken with their pollination or grafting. When plants revert to type, variegated leaves lose their stripes, big luscious fruits become tiny and flavourless again, and magnificent blooms turn into uninspiring weeds.

Years ago, some Chinese farmers decided they would eat the good, big potatoes they harvested and just use the small ones for seed. A new understanding of the laws of life came to them when, throughout the years during which they kept up the practice, nature reduced all their potatoes to the size of marbles! Those farmers learned through bitter experience that they could not keep the best things of life for themselves and use the leftovers for seed. The laws of life decreed that the harvest would reflect the planting.

“Planting small potatoes” is still common practice. Too many folks take all the big things of life for themselves and only plant the leftovers. They expect that by some crazy twist of the laws of nature that their selfishness will reward them with blessings.

Galatians 6:7 tells us that God knows all about garden-ing in His Church, whether in relation to our time, our talents or our financial resources, “Make no mistake about this: You can never make a fool out of God. Whatever you plant is what you’ll harvest.” (GW)

How is your work going in the Garden of God? Are you being careful and faithful with how and what you plant? Are you planting with regard to the future, or is today all that counts?

1. Tony Cooke Ministries, www.tonycooke.org

Paul WhiteSenior Accountant

WHAT ARE YOU SOWING? WHAT WILL YOU HARVEST?


from the Chief Financial Officer

The Giving Equation is Dr Long’s first book. (Credit: Nerissa J Photography)

Kaye Zyderveld Chief Financial Officer

According to Sydney business consultant Dr Ken Long, many people are reluctant to give because when they do, they are left with less to live on. It can feel like a threat to our independence and standard of living. Economic security is a cause for concern—especially with so many people working reduced hours or being out of work.

But Dr Long’s first book, The Giving Equation, released recently by Signs Publishing, recalculates this equation, offering a biblical and mind-shifting perspective on why we should give. He shows that giving has significant benefits and that we actually have more to gain if we give than we have by holding on to our money.

“I believe that God asks us to give for our benefit,” says Dr Long. “And God is so compassionate to our human way of thinking that He often describes giving from a consumer perspective—what’s in it for me.”

The Giving Equation presents two ways of thinking about money: the Me-economy and the G-economy. A Me-economy mindset is about holding on to money to protect our lifestyle and achieve financial security and independence—it’s the natural human way of thinking. On the other hand, people with a G-economy mindset find freedom in trusting God to provide and experience the abundant life He promises to those who give. More than that, they develop a benevolent, generous character that reflects the character of the ultimate Giver of all.

“Ken’s insights into biblical stewardship are exciting, fresh, transformative and hope-filled,” says Christina Hawkins, director of Discipleship Ministries—Stewardship for the South Pacific Division. “The more households living out this transformed mindset, the more powerful the impact of the church will be.”

James Kiangua, director of Stewardship for the Eastern Highlands and Simbu Mission in Papua New Guinea, heard Dr Long present on the themes of his book last year. “Ken’s presentation on the giving equation was definitely counter-cultural,” he says. “Coming from a ‘big-man’ culture preoccupied with the Me-economy, giving was all about satisfying my ego. My motives for giving were protecting my fame and identity. After thoughtful examination, I resolved to live by the G-economy. It has replaced my ego, and drives everything I do and say.”

As well as providing food for personal thought, The Giving Equation is also a practical resource for learning with others. “It contains five Bible case studies that draw out principles of giving,” Dr Long says. “These are summarised and presented in study guide form at the back of the book, and can be used for small groups, Sabbath School classes or family worship.” Resources like this are in demand at the moment, with many people gathering in small groups in homes rather than in larger congregations for worship.

The Giving Equation is available from Adventist book-stores in Australia and New Zealand, or online.

taken from:https://record.adventistchurch.com/2020/07/02/new-book-re-calculates-the-value-of-giving/

THE GIVING EQUATION

8 July-August 2020

Education

PRESCOTT PRIMARY NORTHERN PRESCOTT COLLEGE SOUTHERN

#ALLINTHISTOGETHER SECONDARY JAPANESEPrescott Primary Northern committed to 2020 and being in this together. It has been a year to remember – with Black Summer, COVID-19 and economic uncertainty. Australia has been experiencing an emotional and physical rollercoaster.

At Prescott Primary Northern, we are a community filled with diversity and multiculturalism. While Harmony Week is about celebrating our unity within diversity, Reconciliation Week is a week where we encourage everyone to stop and to remember and realign our connection with our Land, Indigenous Australians, and each other. While the world is in upheaval, it is now more than ever that we need to come together and support one another.

Reconciliation Week is to remind ALL Australians that we must remain compatible with each other, and with our differing views and beliefs.

Prescott Primary Northern celebrated reconciliation by working together to create a new display titled Hands Up & Hands In – Together We Win. Students coloured in a paper hand with amazing artwork.

Thank you to all Australians for standing up for each other, for supporting each other and for always putting your Hands Up and your Hands In to hold each other up and help each other out. Together we will survive, together we will win.

Jason DavisDeputy PrincipalPrescott Primary Northern

KONNICHIWA MINASANI OGENKI DEUSKA?

This term, Prescott College Southern students have explored many new aspects of Japanese language and culture through task board challenge activities. Students have had the opportunity to select their own projects based on personal interests and challenge level. This process has helped students discover new passions and skills in a variety of areas. We have discovered upcoming poets, fashion designers, masters chefs and even grammar experts! The students’ creativity has been wonderful to see and we look forward to seeing more in the coming terms.

Last term we also had students participate in the annual JLTASA Year 8 recital competition. Due to COVID-19, entries were video recorded, making it particularly difficult for judges to choose just one winner. Congratulations to year 8 students, Tamia Konjevic and Amber Bushell, who demonstrat-ed great preparation, pronunciation and memorisa-tion skills. They well represented the school among a very tough field of competition!

Jessica SammellsSecondary Japanese Teacher


PRESCOTT COLLEGE PRESCOTT SCHOOLS

YEAR 8 PHYSICAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLANNINGStudents in Year 8 Physical Education have been required to participate in two Sport Education units over Semester 1 at Prescott College. In the Australian Curriculum, students develop personal and social capability as they learn to understand themselves and others, and manage their relationships, lives, work and learning more effectively. The Physical Education units have had a particular focus on ‘Social Awareness’, where the students develop a range of interpersonal skills such as communication, negotiation, teamwork, leadership, and an appreciation of diverse perspectives.

The first unit was developed around the sport of European Handball. Teams of students played against each other for premiership points, which included a Grand Final at the end. They were also required to undertake a specialised role within the team, which included; team leader, scorer and equipment manager. The teamwork and leadership qualities displayed by the Year 8 students has been impressive, with the overall engagement in physical activity some of the best I’ve seen.

The second unit of the semester was built around the sport of Dodgeball. Students have been divided into 3 teams and are building excellent team dynamics as well as displaying great throwing mechanics, game play strategy and resilience. However, effective communication, negotiation, team work and leadership is not isolated to the Physical Education classroom. It is crucial to the development of these young men and women that they are continuing to display these ‘social awareness’ characteristics in the rest of their subjects as well as at home and in other aspects of their lives.

“Individual commitment to a group effort… that is what makes a team-work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” - Vince Lombardi

Liam DavisPrescott College

SDA Schools SA recently commenced a series of strategic planning meetings for our Prescott Schools, the first to be held since Steve Cowley commenced as Education Director. On Sunday March 15, a team of 20 people met together, stepping back from their day to day roles, to commence discussions on the future direction of our Prescott School system.This combined leadership team included our school Principals, Deputies, the members of the Seventh-day Adventist Schools (SA) Ltd Board of Directors as well as the Education Director and Project Officer. This was the first time that school leadership and the governing Board had all met together since 2018 and there was excellent feedback from the participants.

The meeting was facilitated by the previous Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Independent Schools South Australia, Garry Le Duff. With Garry’s experience and guidance, the team had the opportunity to reflect on past goals, review our existing purpose statements and work towards an alignment of vision, mission and core values. Opportunity was also provided for consideration of the future direction of the Prescott Schools system and how we can strengthen and grow the influence of Adventist Education in South Australia. It was a very productive day, and we look forward to when we can all meet again later in the year.

Shelisa Lillehagen & Steve CowleyProject Officer & Education Director

10 July-August 2020

Departmental news

LITERATURE EVANGELISM

THE ODD BROWN CASEI vaguely recall a quaint gentleman visiting my parents’ cold and old farmhouse. He carried a heavy and odd shaped brown case. My curiosity was aroused. “What’s in that case?!”

Mum and Dad called us into the sitting room, and proudly told us to take good care of this present, for it cost a lot of money. “Wow! New books – not second-hand mind you – they must be special!” The attractive blue set of “The Bible Story” sat in a red plastic stand, way up on the mantel piece. There was a large book also – “Your Bible and You”. Mum and Dad worked long and hard to put food on the table for us six children. It seemed they were always busy on the small farm. Mum and Dad were good living, honest, but struggling ordinary people – and God fearing, for us children were sent to Sunday School on odd occasions. I didn’t understand what the Bible or church or religion was about.

Before long, I was tall enough to reach up to the mantel piece, and look through these ‘Bible books’. Then I started to read them. I took one and read it on the school bus as we travelled to and from school. Soon I had read the whole set. Something stirred in my mind – these books were indeed ‘special’. Sometime later, I read “Your Bible and You.” I can’t remember any of my siblings reading these books, but they may have. We didn’t have much in those days, but everyone was happy. However, a change was coming.

Primary School days blurred by, and High School too – life was all about having fun. Two of my school mates asked me to go with them to a meeting in town. It was some religious meeting. “We can stir up some fun there!” So off we went. When we arrived, there were half a dozen “oldies” and us three young guys. “Well, not much we can do here, let’s just stay a bit and after we can dash off to the Drive-In to catch the feature film!” The religious slide show was pretty good though. Then we raced off to the Drive-In and I don’t remember the feature film at all.

Some weeks later, we decided to do the same – go to the religious meeting, and dash off to the Drive-In. Something was stirring in my mind. We never caught many of the Evangelistic Series, but I caught enough.

At one meeting, an old gentleman with a snowy white goatie and a shiny black walking stick bailed us up as we tried to rush away. He must have left the meeting well before it was over, because he was already outside waiting for us as we dashed out before the ‘Amen’.

“The truth was clear tonight boys, wasn’t it?” – his authority was arresting. His words haunted me. So the three of us talked about religion seriously. We visited other churches to find out why they didn’t keep the Sabbath and we asked some crazy questions about Revelation and the end of time. “The Bible Story” set had given me a foundation, but now I wanted to know more. Within a couple of years, I was baptised at sixteen years of age. No-one in my family seemed to understand. And no doubt my zeal was a bit much. Gradually, I matured into the Adventist Faith. Yet, still none of my family seemed to understand.

Fast forward over 50 years of God’s leading and blessing. Now my wife and I were visiting Dad in a Nursing Home. We gave Dad some reading materials and he especially loved the topics of the Last Days, and of Jesus’ Return, and of the Resurrection Morning. That is amazing really, because Dad was so opposed to the Advent Message when I became a Christian. Dad was still a very reserved individual, but he died with a strong faith in God.

Soon after, my wife and I were visiting Mum in the Nursing Home. Mum was also quite private about religious matters. However, Mum now had time to read so we gave her the book “Your Bible and You”. Although a copy of this book had been on the mantel piece for over fifty years, Mum had never read it. Now, Mum drank the message in. One day, that copy mysteriously disappeared and Mum was very upset. So we gave her another copy. Mum read it through for the second time and then again for the third time. Mum said she was learning so much each time. We had never seen Mum so at peace. In the last few weeks, we had some wonderful visits with Mum and had prayer times with her too. Mum asked if we had given Dad this “Bible” to read before he died. We told Mum that we had given Dad some very similar material in the form of Bible Study Guides and that Dad enjoyed those. Mum was so happy.


LITERATURE EVANGELISM CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Registrations are now open for Refuel 2020, coming to your home or church on 15 August 2020.

This year we have a great line up of presenters including Nina Atcheson, Pr Daron Pratt, Jonathon Platt, and even more.

We heard your request for more workshops and we’ve got some great options available.

Please check out the full brochure for all the details. Note that registration this year is only $10 per participant, and you get to join us from the comfort of your own home, or church.

Hurry, registration is for a limited time only.

https://events.adventist.org.au/event/info/5843

C O N F E R E N C E

Saturday 15 AugustJoin us via ZOOM

$10 per personNO REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER 10 AUGUST

2:45 - 3:00 Zooming In3:00 - 3:20 Who Needs The Pits Anyway?3:30 - 4:10 Growing Resilient Faith4:20 - 5:00 Kids On Mission 5:10 - 5:50 Workshops 5:55 - 6:10 Closing Sabbath6:15 - 6:55 Tea Break 7:00 - 7:40 Community? Why Bother?7:50 - 8:30 Workshops 8:30 - 9:00 Q&A

Online: https://events.adventist.org.au/event/info/5843 call Bronnie on 0417 883 984

COST

PROGRAM

REGISTER

SPEAKERSJonathon PlattNina Atcheson: “Team Jesus”Pr Daron Pratt

Pr David Butcher Lydell Quin

Pr Darren & Rosie CroftPr Travis Manners

Melody Tan

Jonaton Platt

THE ODD BROWN CASE (CONT’D)Mum was reading through “Your Bible and You” for the fourth time, when she experienced a medical episode which impacted her mind severely and then Mum declined rapidly and died one Sabbath morning. On several of our earlier visits Mum had said, “I wish all the family could read this book”.

Recently we read the Literature Ministry promo in the Conference News. We wanted to honour Mum, and to help fulfil her wish we decided to send out ten copies of “Today Tomorrow and You” to various family members. Already we are seeing God’s power at work. Now we are planning to send more books out. May God’s blessing be upon these books and all who receive them – and God bless the Literature Evangelism work!

There’s not enough words to tell the whole story – an aunt (sister to Mum), and a sister of my wife, joined the Adventist family, and some other contacts, and other family are now showing interest. The story began with a faithful Literature Evangelist visiting Mum and Dad with that odd brown case. Praise God!

Anonymous SA Church Member as told to Rita Pinzone & Sandy LudererLiterature Ministry Leaders

REFUEL 2020 15 AUGUST

12 July-August 2020

Departmental news

At the bottom of the mountain, there was an ice fall, a tumbled down ruin of ice that pours down and is filled with crevasses and ice walls. It moves slowly, but constantly and it’s a dangerous place. Dozens of people have died in the crevasses, engulfed by ice walls falling.

They were descending after having been further up the mountain, it was getting close to dark and they wanted to get through the ice fall. The two mountain climbers were roped together but the younger one was rushing down ahead in the lead. A great chunk of ice was stuck against the ice wall, so they decided to use this as a steppingstone to get over the gap. The younger climber leapt into the air and landed on that chunk of ice. The chunk broke and dropped into the crevasse with the lead climber on top of it. If he wasn’t careful, he was going to be crushed between the ice and the wall of the crevasse, so he bent his knees and leapt into the air. He was still falling but was now a few feet clear of the chunk of ice. Unless the rope came tight soon, he would come to a rather sticky end on the bottom of the crevasse.

His partner, the older climber, had acted very quickly. He thrust his ice axe into the snow, whipped the rope around it, and the rope came tight with a twang. The falling climber was stopped and swung in against the ice wall. The great chunk of ice smashed to smithereens at the bottom of the crevasse.

Without his partner’s competent response, the younger climber certainly wouldn’t have made it. But once his partner had secured him, he was able to use the techniques of mountaineering to get himself safely to the top again using his ice axe and the crampons on his feet.

It was on 29th May 1953, that an unassuming 33 year old New Zealand beekeeper, Edmund Hillary, and a tough 38-year-old Nepalese Sherpa, Tenzing Norgay, conquered the world’s highest peak, Mt Everest.Climbing Mt Everest was and still is a high-risk activity. These mountains on the Nepal and China borders have claimed over 300 lives attempting to reach the summit.

Imagine the hardships they encountered on that mountain. Imagine the endurance and perseverance needed to survive the below freezing conditions, the unpredictable weather and low oxygen at those altitudes. Others had tried and failed but somehow these two men achieved the impossible. Somehow together their combined areas of experience, passion and expertise meant they were successful and today are still honoured as heroes.

Our spiritual journey is also dangerous and unpredictable at times. We can be lured off our path, we can hit difficult times, we can be tempted to give up. We can feel that we aren’t good enough. We can be distracted with transient things that the world offers. Sometimes the going becomes very tough and we feel discouraged and we lack fortitude.

Ecclesiastes 4:8-12 with the wisdom of King Solomon, reminds us that two are better than one.

A missionary lady tells a story how she was trapped with some people in a dry riverbed just as a flash flood came. The people immediately linked arms and withstood that danger by strengthening each other. As they united against the sweeping waters, their lives were spared.

Joining with others to pray is life transforming, especially for ourselves.

Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:18 that we should be ‘praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.’

Some people think prayer is one of the gifts of the Spirit, but it isn’t. The disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray. They wanted to pray prayers that made a difference, they wanted a closer relationship with God as they had seen modelled in Jesus’ life.

My husband Glenn and I ran a weekly prayer group for some years. Some evenings I would get home from my full-time job in Nunawading and say I felt too tired to return to Nunawading for the prayer meeting. However, once I did return and we had prayed together, I felt refreshed and stronger both physically and spiritually.

LET’S LINK ARMS THROUGH PRAYER


May I encourage you to do the following:

• Ask God to teach you how to pray

• Ask God to lead you to a Prayer Partner, someone you can trust and pray with regularly.

• Ask God to lead you to a regular Prayer Group (The computer and mobile phone App Zoom makes this more possible for people)

• Ask God to keep you committed to praying with and for others

What you can expect once you do the above:

• Your spiritual walk will grow

• Your love for others will grow

• Your faith will grow as you see God answers your heartfelt prayers

• You will gain strength and courage

The rules for prayer meetings are always for trust and confidentiality, to ensure the integrity of all who pray in the prayer group and all whom they pray for. A prayer group comes together to honour God and seek His will in all things.

Church members, please may I encourage you to join hands with other members and pray God’s will here on earth.

Pray, pray, pray

Scriptures that encourage us in prayer:James 5:16; Philippians 4:6; 1st Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 6:18; Luke 18:1

1st Timothy 2:8; Romans 12:12; Psalm 102:17; Colos-sians 4:2; Ezra 8:23; Psalm 66:19,20

Proverbs 15:29; Acts 6:4

Lindy SperringPrayer Co-ordinator

Prayer meetings via ZoomMany of our churches are conducting their prayer meetings via Zoom.

TelephoneTo join any of these meetings by telephone (landline or mobile) simply call 08 7150 1149 and enter the relevant meeting ID which is the last set of numbers listed in the web address.

Adelaide Aboriginal Fellowship Wed 10am https://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/524481435

College Park has a Bible Study (English only) every Wednesday at 8:15pm.https://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/295145405

Elizabeth: Thurs 7:30pm host Matt Hunter https://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/206875215

Kadina: Mon-Fri 7pm. This meeting can be accessed by following the 7pm Prayer link atwww.OurVirtualChurch.com.au or by https://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/92177582760

Melrose Park Tuesday 7pm host Fabiano Niyonkuruhttps://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/330258956 NASamoan Wed 6:30pm host Roland Talamaivao-Amituanai https://zoom.us/j/734997171

Prospect/Gawler Friday 7pm host Mark Wilsonhttps://adventistchurch.zoom.us/j/92728686028

South Coast Wed 7pm https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/87847051110?pwd=alh-HaGNSVHk1VGpBZ0IrbHdDaUNvQT09

YOUTH DEPARTMENT

ATSIM

14 July-August 2020

Departmental news

Just a few short days before the pandemic shutdown, a grandson of one of our Adelaide Aboriginal Fellowship group was hit by a bus and died in Salisbury. Contributing to the extra sense of grief was that the twenty-year-old, Brenden William Keith Aitken, died two days short of his 21st birthday. A life cut tragically short and a family torn by grief and pandemic funeral restrictions. The restrictions on attendance at the funeral meant the family chose to postpone the funeral until more family could attend.

During this time the Spirit of God has been moving upon the hearts of family members. Dulcie (grand-mother) has decided to commit her life to Jesus through baptism while her cousin Audrey has faithfully attended Zoom Bible studies and prayer meetings online.

On the 26th of June, Brenden was laid to rest at the Enfield Memorial Cemetery surrounded by family. Where there may have been anger and conflict instead a spirit of compassion and peace reigned as family gathered to share, grieve and support each other. Praise God for hearing and answering prayer.

Pictured: Dulcie Stewart (grandmother) and Audrey Stewart share comfort and memories after the funeral service.

David Fletcher and Eric Hoare

JULY 5 End of Semester Pizza

Night 25 Youth Bonfire

AUGUST 23 Adventurer Rally

SEPTEMBER 4 Youth Rally 5 Youth Social

19 Pathfinder Rally 22 PF Training

OCTOBER 30 Friday Night

Vespers

November 20-21 African Youth

Conference 28 PF Investiture

december 5 PF Investiture

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN YOUTH 2020 CALENDAR

JANUARY 2021 3 Summer Camp Staff Training

5-10 Junior Summer Camp 12-17 Teen Summer Camp

2020 CALENDAR UPDATE

GRIEF IN LOCKDOWN


ADRA

DROUGHT RESPONSESince December 2019, ADRA has been involved in Drought Relief activities in South Australia. The response has seen a volunteer team conduct a needs assessment in the Mallee Region, where drought-affected farmers and families were identified. The team then visited with some of those farmers and discussed their situation and listened to their experiences.

Drought response has always proved difficult to identify ways to assist those affected, and as an immediate gesture of support, cash transfers of $500 were offered and arrangements were made to come back later this year to hold a family fun day for affected families in the area.

The team met with local farming groups and partnered with members at Riverland Adventist church to connect with as many farming families as possible.For the past couple of months, we have been assisting through fence construction in Nildottie. We want to thank all of the volunteers who have committed their time and hard yakka to get a huge amount of fencing done, and also to the team who went to the Mallee. The commitment of the volunteers and donors involved really has been amazing, and really has made a difference. Thank you!

Charlene LuzukADRA Director

16 July-August 2020

Church news

PRIMARY SABBATH SCHOOL VIA YOUTUBE

CHURCH DURING COVID SHUTDOWNPort Augusta has seen a continuation of spiritual activity that didn’t interfere with the social restrictions. Port Augusta continued with the planned 10 Days of Prayer – just via Zoom. This 10 days found the participants to have a stronger bond and were reminded of the personal interest of the Lord in many personal ways. In addition to the letter-box-drop of the COVID Glow tract, DVDs and literature packs carefully prepared by our Bible Worker, Meki Maiava, plus volunteers, were letter-boxed within the guidelines throughout the quarantine restrictions. While giving out tracts there were residents craving for company who came to talk with some of the young people – practicing social distancing of course.

Port Augusta’s young people engaged in faith-sharing experiences, including hosting regular worships online primarily via Facebook and Zoom. They also began planning for the eventuality of restrictions being lifted.

The Port Augusta based Bible Worker, Meki Maiava, had remained active in maintaining ongoing connection with contacts, and encouraging them on

their spiritual journeys.

Church services saw a massive learning curve to implement, but good participation with more than the usual attendees coming online to view the message from the Word of God. Interestingly there was a glut of viewers viewing the online service on Sunday morning.

Towards the end of the COVID shutdown, we began praying for and looking into ways we can connect in person with those who’ve regularly attended the

Sabbath Service online now we’re free to worship at the church again. So far there have been 3 individuals who have stated they valued the local regular spiritual program. We’re looking forward to developing these relationships further.Pr Dietrich Stahl

PORT AUGUSTA

Two of Port Augusta’s primary aged children wanted to do something for the other children experiencing shutdown in their immediate region. Enlisting their parents’ assistance, they produced a 20-30 minute program leading out in a regular weekly Sabbath School production.

This production included inviting involvement from local children, and was shared so many times that children from the Pacific and even as far as Washington State, USA sent in “Why I love Jesus” video clips. From this initiative there have been local families contact us expressing their desire to come to church.Pr Dietrich Stahl


CONNECTING DURING COVIDWHYALLA

ADRA Whyalla still ran their Emergency Relief program while the OP Shop and Cafe were closed. While practicing good hygiene and social distancing and Government guidelines, this was able to continue to a degree. We are so blessed to have great volunteers to operate a busy ADRA Centre and Op shop.

For many of our members, technology was not as accessible as for others, so alternate methods were primary in maintaining connection. Apart from regular telephone calls, some members enjoyed connecting with one another by driving to a destination, meeting outside and maintaining physical distance of 2 metres.While local services and Sabbath School program were available via Zoom, Facebook & YouTube for those with internet access, many of our members relied on Hope Channel satellite TV to augment their Sabbath program.

One of the ADRA volunteers organised various arrangements of beautilful flowers for the re-opening of the Whyalla church post shutdown on Sabbath 4 July. Pr Dietrich Stahl and Helen Hiscock

MAX’S STORYPORT LINCOLN

Max walked into church a couple of weeks ago and stated “You’ve got it right. The seventh day is the Sabbath.” He has been attending every Sabbath since.

Max told us his story:Around Xmas last year Max collapsed at home and was sent to an Adelaide hospital where he was in ICU on life support. After some time the doctors told the family that Max would not survive. They agreed to turn off the life support. However during the procedure Max woke up. The doctor said it was a miracle and stated that God must have something more for Max’s life. Max agreed. He asked for a Bible but there were none available. When he was transferred to Port Lincoln Hospital he asked again for a Gideon Bible but there were still none available. Once home he asked the manager of the caravan park if he knew of any Gideon Bibles. The manager said that he had a box of new Gideon Bibles which he didn’t want and so put them in the bin. Max was devastated.

However, the next day he saw the manager coming towards his caravan with a box in his hand. The manager told Max that he had indeed put the Bibles in the rubbish bin but when the man came to empty the bin he just couldn’t throw them away and took them out, and “so Max, you can have them all.”

Max came to church with his box of new Gideon Bibles and gave them to us minus a few for himself. Max’s prayer was answered more abundantly than he could imagine - instead of one Gideon Bible he got a whole box full. Max is certain God has something for him to do-maybe it has got some thing to do with Bibles.Gavin DaggBible Worker

18 July-August 2020

Church news

As I reflect on my experience when COVID-19 forced us to go into isolation, at first I was a bit uncomfortable, but this is exactly what I needed. This pandemic has enabled me to accomplish some much needed development.

I was reminded constantly that negative experiences are not always entirely all that bad. God can bring good out of bad. Beauty for ashes.The Christian church grew in numbers during the persecution (Acts 11:19-20). This reality has been true even in my own life. It is during times of hardship that I am forced to fall on my knees and pray more earnestly. Therefore, I think we need to ask ourselves when times like these come, “Where is the Spirit of God moving and how can I be more useful in His service right now?” rather than complaining and hiding ourselves.

Here are some ways that I have benefited from the COVID-19 pandemic:I was working tirelessly and you know, just doing church, making sure things ran smoothly but there were areas where I needed to improve. I knew all the time that “the first great business of your life is to be a missionary at home.” 4T p. 138. And that “The spiritual welfare of his family comes first.” GW 204. I realised that here was an opportunity to improve. I also wanted to learn to play at least one instrument.

I picked up the guitar, and called the family together and said “from henceforth, we are going to transform our family worship.” I am happy to advise that our family worship now includes a guitar, voices, art, and many other things. Every morning, our two year old wakes up asking us for family worship. She has memorised some of the verses from the Beginners lesson pamphlet. Praise God!!

Social distancingAccording to the Mariam-Webster dictionary, social distancing is “the practice of maintaining a greater than usual physical distance (such as six feet or more) from other people or of avoiding direct contact with people or objects in public places during the outbreak of a contagious disease in order to minimise exposure and reduce the transmission of infection.” The practice of social distancing was first noted in 2003. However, the phrase was voted by the Oxford dictionary as the 2020 word of the year.

As I reflected on this pandemic I realised we have been socially distancing even when there was no pandemic. It’s true. Think about it. Some of us have been good at distancing ourselves from those not of our faith. We do not want to be “contaminated by those sinners.” Jesus was called a “friend of sinners ” Luke 7:34. He did not practice social distancing.

SINAI

COMMUNICATING DURING COVID


I have to some degree distanced myself from those who needed me most. I have not followed “Christ method alone” as I should have. I have been doing “church work,” such as, organising meetings, doing administrative work of the church, visitations and preparing sermons - which are important. However, there is more to ministry - even the winning of souls. I must be winnings souls every year. This is my first calling!!

I have been reading the book Christian Service by the author Ellen G White as an addition to my morning devotions. God has been convincing me, especially during this pandemic, that “There is a need of coming close to the people by personal effort. If less time were given to sermonising, and more time were spent in personal ministry, greater results would be seen.”—Christian Service p.117. She emphasises, through the chapters I’ve read thus far, the personal work along with the training of church members to witness. The minister gives the theory, but the church members need to go out and work. Oh, how I long to see our members in South Australia embrace a total member involvement! How I long to see fellow believers come out of hiding and engage in the church’s mission!

Media toolsWith this pandemic we were given an opportunity to rethink church. We were forced to use technology as a tool to facilitate our worship programs. It has been a passion of mine for years to use media (In fact, I was trained in this area before going to Avondale), to have an online presence, to engage with online communities for the glory of God and for the spreading of the three angels’ message. Unfortunately, I was over committed doing this work and failing to “rest a while.” This pandemic provided me an opportunity to PAUSE and go back to one of my passions.

When we went into lock down, I immediately went to my garage, cleared away the space and set up a home studio. At that time we were allowed to have a few people get together to livestream a church service. We even had people tuning in from other continents. However, we quickly realized that people could interact a bit more on Zoom so we connected our livestream feed into our Zoom meetings.

I noted that people need interaction - especially in our isolated society. At the Digital Discipleship weekend I had learned to use these tools for mission, and to remember that these tools are a means to an end, not the end in and of themselves. We need to connect, call for action and disciple online as well.

We need to use these tools to reach out to those who would not otherwise enter our doors. A 2001 study indicated that, in the US alone, 81% of all internet users were engaged in contacting and connecting with an online community including churches. In 2004 Facebook began which caused a massive upswing in online connections. Sociologist Barry Wellman refers to this phenomena as ‘“glocalization”—the ability of the Internet to both expand user’s social contacts and bind them more closely to the place where they live.’ (Preece, J., Maloney-Krichmar, D. and Abras, C. (2003).

With a forced lock down, online communities have grown. Increasedly people are sharing much of their life online. This is where we need to be as a church. We could utilise various apps and empower those who are already on these platforms in our churches to start a ministry and connect our churches with those communities.

Why not sit down and put together a strategic plan of how you are going to reach out to the “prodigal sons and daughters,” the unchurched and seekers who are online. Pray and seek for God’s direction. More and more people are surfing the web now, trying to find anything that can give them hope - our message therefore is now more relevant than ever before. God has called you for such a time such as this - see 1 Pet. 2:9. We cannot pretend that merely church attendance is what is needed.

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8. “But how can people call on him if they have not believed in him? How can they believe in him if they have not heard his message? How can they hear if no one tells the Good News?” Rom. 10:14 GW.

Maranatha! Jesus is coming. Fabiano NiyonkuruMinister - Sinai Company and Melrose Park Church

20 July-August 2020

Church news

100 DAYS OF PRAYER CONCLUDEDQUEENSTOWN

Physical exercise can sometimes be like prayer – it can be hard work, just setting a regular time of the day and committing to it can be challenging. It may get easier if you are doing it with others but then again would you be comfortable to say, sing or cry out your prayer with them?

When we decided to commit to the 100 Days of Prayer on 27 March we were a little bit concerned about its sustainability as just agreeing on a specific time of the day was challenging! Then COVID-19 restrictions came in which meant meeting via ZOOM. Everyone was ei-ther working from home or were more available on the evenings we met. Going through the readings, sharing our thoughts, our days and anxieties and, at times, this became a mini-Bible study. We not only grew closer together during the 100 days, but felt the Holy Spirit move through us in prayer as well.

On 4 July, we closed the 100 Days of Prayer. We were a bit emotional as we reflected on our journey as a group and as individuals. We have seen disease,

including COVID-19, healed, jobs restored, relationships mended, lives changed and ministering opportunities increased and progressed, as clear answers to our prayers.

Below are some testimonies from our prayer team

“The 100 Days of Prayer inspired me to read my Bible daily and spend more time in God’s Word. This has enriched my spiritual life igniting a passion and boldness to share God’s message to family members, friends and colleagues. “– MT

“Praise God for the 100 Days of Prayer! Got our long-awaited visa approved for our family with collective powerful prayers.” - JA

The experience was so fulfilling that we decided to make this a 365 Days of Prayer, doing one chapter a day from the Spirit of Prophecy books as our daily read.Ismael & Mary Ann Santillan

making friends for godThe Joy of Sharing His MissionSabbath School Lesson | 3rd Quarter 2020

follow these simple steps1. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide the group.2. Read the key passage twice, then one

retell the passage in their own words.3. Discuss the following questions:

What is new? What suprises you? What don’t you understand? What will you obey / apply? What will you share with another this week?

01. why witness? 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 Romans 10:9-17 John 7:37-52

02. winsome witnesses: the power of personal testimony Acts 4:1-13 Mark 5:1-20 Mark 16:1-11

03. seeing people through Jesus’ eyes Luke 23:33-49 Mark 8:22-26 John 1:35-51

04. prayer power: interceding for others Luke 22:31-34, 54-62 Ephesians 1:15-23 Hebrews 7:20-28

05. spirit-empowered witnessing John 15:18-27 Acts 18:1-11 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

06. unlimited possibilities 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 Acts 10:34-38 John 7:37-52

07. sharing the word Romans 1:8-17 Isaiah 55:1-13 Hebrews 1:1-14

08. ministering like Jesus Matthew 9:27-38 Philippians 2:1-11 Ephesians 4:17-32

09. developing a winning attitude Matthew 15:21-28 Romans 15:1-13 1 Peter 3:8-18

10. an exciting way to get involved Luke 10:1-9 Acts 16:6-15 Romans 12:1-10

11. sharing the story of Jesus 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Hebrew 10:19-39 1 John 5:1-13

12. a message worth sharing 2 Peter 1:3-15 Revelation 14:14-20 Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

13. a step in faith Philippians 2:1-11 Acts 9:1-20 Matthew 9:1-13


PROSPECT INTERNATIONALZOOM EVANGELISTIC SERIES REACHES SINGAPOREDuring the Coronavirus lockdown I shared Pr Mark Wilson’s sermon “Sunday: Severe Weather Ahead!” broadcast on LMM, with some friends from Singapore. They liked it so much that a small group from Singapore invited Pr Wilson to present a mini series on the Three Angels’ Messages via Zoom. Pr Wilson presented a short evangelistic series of four presentations, called “INTO EARTH’S FINAL DESTINY”, over four Sabbath afternoons, commencing on 20 June 2020.

The first meeting saw 52 participants logged in, which consisted of family members and contacts of these members, making an average audience of 150 people watching at the time. The second meeting saw 62 participants increasing our audience to around 180!

Pr Wilson preached a Christ centred series covering Daniel 7, and Revelation 13-14. There was a myriad of positive feedback comments from the participants, with many ministry contacts were convicted and transformed by the truth they received! Praise God for the Holy Spirit moving on people’s hearts! Everyone was blessed by the powerful and clear mes-sages presented.

“Very clear & well explained presentations on the Book of Daniel & Revelation” wrote Victor Choo. “He pointed out the most important – the focus of Revelation – not just about beasts, but about true worship. He remind-ed us on the decision we all have to ultimately make, for Jesus and true worship.”

Janie, who is a ministry contact in Singapore, wrote “I truly appreciate all your very thorough research and references many of which are new to me... for the first time, you have showed so starkly to me authoritative references to the Catholic acknowledgment of placing tradition over the Bible including the Sabbath... Thank you so much for enlightening us. Look forward to your next lectures!”

Andhi Pakpahan from Singapore summed it up for all the participants...

“Me, my wife Ella, and on behalf of our friends who have listened to your messages in Singapore via zoom for 4 times (June 20 to July 11), would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your time, and the opportunity to listen to the amazing Three Angels’ Messages.

“Your presentations were like water in a dry desert and fulfilled our thirst! Very clear, simple and straightforward...

“You answered every single question and touched our heart. We will always remember you, and God’s messages that you have shared with us. It’s so precious!

“Lastly, may God be always be with you, your family, and empower your ministry until the second coming of Jesus. We are also looking forward to meeting you in person when you visit Singapore.”

I think Pastor Wilson made many new friends in Singapore, so perhaps my wife and I will have to escort our Pastor and his wife Sue, to Singapore sometime after international travel restrictions are lifted!

Kenny Oo, Elder

22 July-August 2020

Notices

2D CHARACTER ANIMATOR (12 Month Contract)Australian Union Conference Ringwood VIC

Are you an experienced animation artist who is looking to work on an exciting and meaningful project? Then we have an opportunity for you!

The Seventh-day Adventist Church (AUC) Limited is building a team of creatives to design and deliver high quality motion graphics and animations to bring to life an incredible Bible story.

The successful animator will have a strong portfolio of character animation and graphic skills, demonstrating skill in creating fluid and natural character animations. You will have 3+ years of similar work experience, with solid drawing skills. Creative activities include developing storyboards, and creating illustrations of characters, props, backgrounds and digital assets for scripts, and an opportunity to contribute to the planning and development of this exciting project.

If you would like to be part of this animation ministry, then please contact [email protected] for a copy of the position description and application details for this 12-month contract.

Please note that the appointing body reserves the right to fill this position at its discretion and only those who already have the legal right to work in Australia may apply. Application deadline is 31 July 2020.

RESOURCE CENTRE

Far Away From Home By Josip Kavur with Clive Nash As WW1 raged across Europe, a 20yr old machine gunner waited for the Russian attack. He promised God that he would follow Him if he didn’t have to kill anyone. His gun jammed. Later captured and taken to a prisoner-of-war camp. Mirko met his first Seventh-day Adventist, a fellow prisoner, and challenged him about the Bible Sabbath. He lost the debate but what he won changed everything. Filled with stories of danger, determination and faithfulness, but also Gods presence as they sought to stand for, serve and share Him, this book will strengthen your resolve to stand for God until He comes to take us home. Order your book now through the Resource Centre for $22.95 on 8269 2177 or email [email protected]

BOOK PROMOTION


The inaugural #weRtheCHURCH Sabbath program received such a positive response that it will now be held quarterly.

Organisers of the Division-wide initiative are planning to share more inspiring stories on what the Church is doing across the South Pacific through three Friday night programs, the first to be held on August 28. The fourth program will be a Friday night/Sabbath event similar to the one held on May 22-23.

Each program will be themed around discipleship using the harvest cycle model. The first will focus on “Preparing the soil”, featuring mission stories and testimonies from around the South Pacific Division (SPD).

The SPD’s decision to make #weRtheCHURCH a regular initiative follows widespread enthusiastic feedback for the first program, which showcased how the mission of the Church has been continuing in new and creative ways despite the challenges of COVID-19. Up to 200,000 viewers were believed to have tuned into the event.

“I have been inundated with positive messages frompeople from around the SPD expressing gratitude for the #weRtheCHURCH weekend,” said SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend.

“It was wonderful to see how the program united and inspired our members during such a challenging time of church lock downs.

“Church leaders throughout the SPD have also shared their thoughts on the #weRtheCHURCH program and its impact. They were pleased to see how it brought incredible unity to such a diverse Division and expressed interest in having more of these programs.

“I am delighted that #weRtheCHURCH is becoming a regular event—I believe it will be a real blessing and encouragement for the Church in the South Pacific as we continue to become a thriving Adventist disciple-making movement.”

Adventist Media is working with the unions and division entities to source content for the upcoming programs.

For more information and updates, email [email protected].

Tracey BridcuttHead of News & Editorial

SOUTH PACIFIC DIVISION

#weRtheCHURCH TO CONTINUE!

Notices

grapevine - seventh-day adventist church in australia

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