Sometimes, being “close” to something can make us feel secure—even when we’re not.
I love fireworks. I just love seeing them explode and brighten the dark night skies. I understand that not everyone does—they can scare pets and small children, and some people think the cost is a waste.
Where I come from fireworks are more accessible and we see them come out at every special event. Big church events like Pathfinder camporees often feature fireworks. Even so, fireworks never felt mundane to me. And although I saw them all the time, New Year’s Eve (NYE) fireworks were extra special. It felt like a rite of passage, as if I’d be stuck in the past year if I didn’t see the fireworks at midnight.
You’d think that after moving to Australia, I’d be itching to see one of the most iconic NYE spectacles in the world in person. Sydney is one of the first big cities in the world to celebrate the new year with a spectacle so grand that it involves eight tonnes of pyrotechnics and 15 months of planning.
It’s something worth seeing at least once in your life—and, after almost six years of procrastination, I still hadn’t. But when friends visiting from overseas asked us to go, we couldn’t deprive them of this experience. So we prepared.
We prepared really well. We woke up at 5am to get to Sydney in time to join the line before the park opened. We had food, a massive picnic rug, popup sun shelters, board games, the whole shebang—everything we needed to stay comfortable and entertained for more than 14 hours of camping. Other friends also joined us, and our group of 10 combined forces to secure a prime spot with a front-row view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
The day went by really fast. It was kind of relaxing sitting by the water with friends and snacks. We had a great time—until we didn’t.
By 6:46pm, the park reached capacity. More than 36,000 people were crammed in. And some—who hadn’t arrived as early as us—started getting upset that we had a prime spot and enough space to sit comfortably as a group. They wanted the front-row view. A few confronted us directly, others resorted to passive-aggressive comments, and only a couple of them tried asking nicely. Tension was rising. We did our best to protect our spot, however our territory shrank as the crowds started encroaching.
At midnight, during the whole 12-minute spectacle, I felt incredibly small, yet so amazed. I was so close I could feel the vibration of the explosions in my chest. I stood there, mesmerised, thinking, If a man-made spectacle could be this grand, how much greater will Jesus’ second coming be?
No spectacle in this world will top what His return will be like. And the best part? We don’t need to fight for a spot. Scripture says that every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7).
The question is: will we be ready?
All 10 virgins in Jesus’ parable (Matthew 25:1-13) had an invitation to go in to the wedding, but only five were prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival.
One of our friends who was most active in reasoning with those who wanted to take our spot would tell them, “We woke up at 5am to be here early and have this nice spot—where were you?”
Many responded that they live in Sydney—just a short trip away. Maybe that’s why they didn’t think they needed to come early. They assumed that because they were close, they would somehow get in.
Sometimes, being “close” to something can make us feel secure—even when we’re not. Being in the church for years can make us feel like we’re automatically prepared, but are we truly getting ready for Jesus’ return?
It’s easy to fall into routine—attending church, hearing familiar sermons— and thinking we are spiritually safe. Jesus warns against this kind of complacency. In Matthew 7:21, He says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father.” Being close isn’t enough—we must actively prepare, just like the wise virgins in the parable.
The fireworks were spectacular, but they lasted only minutes. Jesus’ return will be eternal—and that’s something worth preparing for now.
Desperation
Glenn Townend South Pacific Division president
Have you seen the footage of human beings hanging onto the outside of military aircraft as they take off? Have you seen women, no more than skin and bone, placing their babies on aid trucks? People do extreme things in desperation. When you are homeless and need accommodation. When you are out of work and need food. When you cannot get answers to medical issues you face. When you’ve let your family down by spending your life savings on gambling. When your life is on the line and you have no ordinary answers you become desperate.
Some biblical characters experienced desperation. Job loathed his suffering and wanted to die (Job 3,4). Jacob wanted his family to survive so he sent his sons to Egypt for food (Genesis 42:1-3,43;2). A prophet’s wife wanted to keep her sons from becoming slaves to pay her dead husband’s debt—she followed Elisha’s call and poured the little oil she had into all the pots she could find (2 Kings 4:1-7).
Jesus saw desperation in His ministry. Blind men shouted their lungs out to get His attention for healing (Matthew 9:27). Lepers disregarded cultural norms and came right up to Jesus (Mark 1:40). A woman who bled for more than 12 years and spent all her money on doctors was willing to make Jesus unclean by touching Him so she might be healed (Mark 5:25-34).
Jeremiah felt dual desperation—that of the people of Israel and that of God:
“‘The harvest is past, the summer has ended, and we are not saved.’ Since my people are crushed, I am crushed; I mourn, and horror grips me” (Jeremiah 8:20,21).
Jeremiah felt the pain of the people who were busy making political alliances and worshipping the gods of other nations but neglected the care of their own people with justice and mercy and true worship of God. They finally realise they made a wrong choice but it is too late. Jeremiah also felt the pain that God feels when people make such poor choices (Jeremiah 9:1-3).
There are people desperate for life and hope today. The world is a mess—but I must not focus on the world but the people who are caught in the trauma of life. Do you and I see the desperation in others? Do they know that we care? Do desperate people feel safe with us? They did with Jesus. May that become true for me.
Adventist scientist makes history
Wellington,
NZ | Tracey Bridcutt
A Seventh-day Adventist from New Zealand has made history as the first Pacific scientist to receive the Royal Society Te Apaˉrangi Callaghan Medal for science communication.
Associate Professor Dianne Sika-Paotonu from the University of Otago, Wellington, was honoured for her evidence-based science communication and commitment to engaging communities in New Zealand and the Pacific.
An immunology and biomedical scientist, Associate Professor Sika-Paotonu has dedicated her career to addressing health disparities, particularly among Maˉori and Pacific peoples. Her research focuses on cancer, rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart disease and infectious diseases, with an emphasis on equity.
“Science communication is crucial in many settings—public, research, teaching and cultural contexts,” she said. “Engaging respectfully and inclusively is essential for better health outcomes, especially for communities facing significant inequities.”
Her work on rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease includes developing improved, less painful treatments and ensuring community input shapes research outcomes. She is a strong advocate for building a health and research workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
A trusted voice during the COVID-19 pandemic, Associate Professor Sika-Paotonu has contributed to hundreds of media stories and interviews, sharing her expertise to inform and support public understanding. Her achievements have been widely recognised, including receiving the 2022 Prime Minister’s Science Communication Prize and other national and international awards.
A New Zealander of Tongan descent and a member of the Wellington City Community Seventh-day Adventist Church, Associate Professor Sika-Paotonu views her work as a way to serve others and bring hope to communities facing significant health challenges.
Vanuatu Mission mourns faithful servant of God
Efate, Vanuatu | Jarrod Stackelroth
The Vanuatu Mission (VM) is mourning the death of Pastor Ernest Qwero (53), who died on February 5 after a prolonged battle with illness while serving at the Eton Adventist Church on Efate.
“With a total of 23 years of service to the mission field, Pastor Qwero was a tireless and humble worker who never turned down God’s calling, no matter where he was posted,” said VM president Pastor Charlie Jimmy. “His dedication to spreading the gospel and caring for the spiritual needs of his congregation and communities made him a beloved figure within the mission.”
Pastor Qwero began his journey in ministry in 2001 as a layman. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in theology from Fulton Adventist University College in 2010. From there, he went on to serve in a variety of roles in VM, including as a local church pastor and district ministry leader in various districts.
On June 12, 2012, he was ordained as a pastor during the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s 100-year celebrations at Saralana Park in Port Vila.
“Though Pastor Qwero faced several years of illness, his faith remained unshaken, and he continued to serve with love and passion until his final days,” said Pastor Jimmy. “His death leaves a deep void in the hearts of many who knew him, but his legacy of unwavering service to God will live on in the lives he touched throughout his ministry.”
Born on January 29, 1971, Pastor Qwero was later married to Naly Meta. Together they had five children.
“VM extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of Pastor Qwero, as well as to the many communities that were blessed by his ministry,” said Pastor Jimmy.
Pastor Qwero’s body was flown to his village of Vandui for burial.
Associate Professor Dianne Sika-Paotonu.
Pastor Ernest Qwero.
ADRA responds to Townsville floods
Townsville, Qld | Ashley Stanton
ADRA Australia and the Adventist Church mobilised in response to the flooding in Townsville in early February.
Across three days, more than six months of rain was recorded in north Queensland. Thousands of residents in low-lying areas were evacuated, and one person died in the floodwaters.
On Sunday, February 2, ADRA distributed essential items to two evacuation centres. The team of volunteers, led by Northern Australian Conference (NAC) ADRA director Pastor Laufili Joseph AhYou, distributed food, hygiene products, first aid kits, nappies, sheets, sleeping bags, toothpaste and kids’ toys.
“Both evacuation centres were incredibly grateful for the much-needed supplies,” said Pastor Ah-You. “The number of people at these centres is steadily increasing.”
ADRA’s immediate response was thanks to the local council’s prepositioned supplies that were being stored in ADRA’s shed, as well as the willingness of ADRA and church volunteers to help their community. In disaster-prone areas, preparation activities such as having prepositioned supplies can save precious time in delivering relief.
“Here in the far north, we live by our saying: ‘The Good News Conference,’” Pastor Ah-You said. “I’m grateful for the full backing of the NAC president Pastor Simon Gigliotti, secretary Pastor Matthew Pearce and the local pastors—all united in service.”
As people return home, ADRA will be providing residents with cleaning kits to assist with clean-up efforts.
For more, visit <adra.org.au/disaster>.
7me app to empower church members
Aitkenvale, Qld | Juliana Muniz
Church members in the Northern Australian Conference (NAC) now have easier access to news, events and church resources with the launch of the 7me app, a digital tool designed to enhance membership management, communication and member engagement.
NAC is the first conference in Australia to introduce and sponsor the app for every congregation in NAC.
The 7me app is a companion to the Adventist Church Management System (ACMS), the membership platform used by most local church clerks in Australia and New Zealand since 2020. Developed by IATec, the technology institute of the South American Division, the app was launched in 2018 and has since expanded to more than 100 countries.
The app offers a range of features to keep members connected, including a news feed from Adventist Media with updates from across the Pacific, a calendar function that promotes conference and local church events directly to members’ mobile devices, and an interactive prayer page where users can start or join a prayer group and send requests to the conference prayer coordinator.
7me also serves as a centralised resource hub, providing access to Bible translations, Sabbath school guides, Ellen White’s writings, the Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal, eGiving, and streaming options for Hope Channel and Faith FM radio. It also enables members to initiate membership transfers directly within the app, a feature NAC secretary Pastor Matthew Pearce described as “particularly significant for NAC”.
“The app will empower members to take an active role in managing their own church membership information and to initiate transfers,” said Pastor Pearce.
ACMS project manager Pastor Adrian Raethel added, “The app has the potential to significantly enhance communication between the conference, local churches and members. We are encouraging all conferences to consider introducing and sponsoring the app for all congregations within their territory, at least for the first 12 months.”
7me aligns with Australian Government privacy principles, allowing members to view, edit and update their personal information held by the Church.
7me is available for download on App Store and Google Play.
ADRA volunteers helping their community.
55 young Adventists in training for Indonesian mission
Nadi, Fiji | Tracey Bridcutt
The Catalyst team from the South Pacific Division (SPD) Institute for Discipleship recently conducted an intensive training program at Fulton Adventist University College (Fiji), preparing 55 young adults for a year of missionary service in Indonesia.
As these young missionaries prepare to embark on their journey, the two-week training program was designed to ground them spiritually and equip them missionally for their transformative year of service.
The Catalyst team, led by Dr Gilbert Cangy, was accompanied by Drs David and Carol Tasker, SPD associate director of ministry and strategy Dr Nick Kross, Pastors Nicholas Kross and Eliki Kenivale, SPD mission service and support manager Carol Boehm and mission leaders from Indonesia.
“The missionaries in training are initially being led into a deeper understanding of the nature of the kingdom of God and experience with the Holy Spirit as they are taught to develop life transforming spiritual habits,” Dr Cangy said.
The training integrated spiritual development with a comprehensive cultural orientation for Indonesia, a country with a predominantly Muslim population. Missionaries learned practical skills essential for their service, with a strong emphasis on Christ’s method of ministry: mingling with people, showing sympathy, meeting their needs and winning their trust before inviting them to follow Jesus. Key aspects of the training included sharing personal testimonies, conducting Bible studies and leading missional small groups.
Trans Pacific Union Mission president Pastor Maveni Kaufononga, ministerial secretary Pastor Linray Tutuo and their support staff were on-site to oversee and inspire the team.
Pastor Kaufononga expressed deep pride in the missionaries, noting that 50 participants were from the TPUM with an additional five from the Papua New Guinea Union Mission.
“Leaders from the West Indonesia Union Mission were also in Fiji, working on placements for the young missionaries,” Pastor Kaufononga said.
“Some of them will serve in schools, others in local churches, media ministries and church planting.”
making headlines
Artistic faith
Barbadian artist Donné Antonia Haynes blends creativity and spirituality through art, by live painting during Sabbath services as an act of worship. Illustrating biblical themes and scenes reflecting God’s creation, Haynes’ art often sparks important conversations. She dreams of opening a faith-based art studio to inspire others spiritually through artistic expression.—IAD
Croatia’s got talent
The Agape Family Quartet—an Adventist pastor and his three sons—gained national attention as Croatia’s Supertalent semi-finalists. Singing “Shall We Gather at the River?” and “Oceans”, the quartet moved judges to tears, one remarking on the sense of peace and joy brought to the competition. Their success introduced many to Adventism in a predominantly Catholic country.—TED
Hope Above the Waters
After the devastating Central European floods last September, ADRA Romania launched Hope Above the Waters to aid affected Romanians. In 100 days, 1219 active volunteers helped 7609 people. 187 tonnes of essential goods were donated and 32,440 litres of water were extracted from walls by ADRA’s dehumidifiers.—EUD
Habit myth busted
Forming habits can take longer than the commonly believed 21 days. Researchers have found that new habits can begin forming within about two months but may take up to 335 days to fully establish. Healthy habits are the key to wellbeing and chronic disease prevention and this study highlights the importance of persistence and not giving up at the three-week mark.—UniSA
The training was designed to ground them spiritually and equip them missionally for their transformative year of service.
Helping hand
Sanitarium has extended a helping hand to Coast Shelter, an organisation that offers vital assistance and crisis accommodation to those in need. Sanitarium staff personally contributed more than $A5500—enough to create 85 hampers—towards Coast Shelter’s annual Christmas Appeal. This donation accounted for nearly half of the not-for-profit’s annual hamper appeal target. Additionally, Sanitarium surprised the organisation with a $A20,000 donation to ensure its programs can continue in 2025 and beyond. Coast Shelter operates on the Central Coast of NSW providing services and support for people experiencing homelessness or domestic and family violence. “This is a huge helping hand to the people in the Central Coast community who rely on us,” said Emma Richomme, Coast Shelter’s corporate and community development coordinator.—Record staff
Cocoa training
ADRA, through its Soul Cocoa Livelihood Project (SCLP), has successfully completed a cocoa training program at Aroaro Community in Central Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. Held on January 22-23 at the community’s request, the training aimed to equip local cocoa farmers with essential skills. Participants learned key aspects of cocoa farming, including pruning and grafting techniques, site and seed selection, identification of high-quality seedlings, and integrated pest and disease management. About 45 cocoa farmers attended, each receiving a 20-litre water container donated by Solomon Water and polybags to aid their farming efforts.—Denver Newter/Record staff
Honouring ATSIM
Avondale Memorial church (Cooranbong, NSW) held its annual Australia Day worship service on Sabbath, January 25, led by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM) team. The program highlighted ATSIM’s work across Australia, sharing key milestones, inspiring stories and messages of faith. The service also highlighted the national ATSIM camp held in Brisbane in January. North New South Wales ATSIM director Pastor Keith Stockwell reflected on recent achievements within the Conference, including the 10-year anniversary of the Brewarrina church plant. NorthPoint
Skilled for service
The New Britain New Ireland Mission (NBNIM) successfully conducted a local church treasurers’ training in Kavieng, Kimbe and Kokopo on January 26 and 27. Facilitated by the NBNIM treasury team and departmental directors, the training included local church treasurers and pastors, district directors and Volunteers in Action. Participants actively engaged in the sessions, asking questions and sharing insights.—Paul Bopalo
A life of service
An Adventist church member from Northern Territory has been posthumously awarded in the Australia Day honours list, after serving her remote community for more than 45 years.
Roslyn (Ros) Jones OAM (Order of Australia Medal) ran the St John Ambulance service out of Batchelor for almost two decades with her husband Bruce, who was also a paramedic. They would respond to any medical emergency within 100 kilometres of their family home.
Before her ambulance service, Mrs Jones was the Batchelor school administrator for three decades and was instrumental in the creation of the Coomalie Community Government Council in the 1990s.
Mrs Jones died in 2024, however was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in the 2025 Australia Day celebrations.
According to ABC news, Mrs Jones’ faith motivated her to serve her community for those years with, what her daughter Tracey described as an enduring love.
“She was a loyal and faithful member who for years kept Batchelor Adventist Church open with her Sabbath school for mainly Indigenous kids,” said Pastor Don Fehlberg, former remote area pastor for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM).
Mrs Jones ran the Sabbath school for 35 years.
According to Pastor Fehlberg, Adventists in NT miss her contributions to the church and community there, “We miss Ros’s faithful work and witness for Jesus.”—Jarrod Stackelroth
have news to share?
Send info and photos to <news@record.net.au>
Visit from home
International students from around the South Pacific Division (SPD) who are pursuing further studies at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS), Philippines, received a visit from home on February 5. Pastor Mike Sikuri, SPD general secretary, met and shared a meal with the postgraduate and seminary students from the Trans Pacific Union Mission and Papua New Guinea Union Mission. Pastor Sikuri shared words of support for their academic and spiritual journeys and expressed his appreciation for their commitment to both their studies and ministry. Following the meeting, a dinner was held, giving students an opportunity to update Pastor Sikuri on their progress and experiences at AIIAS —Toma Naivalu/Jarrod Stackelroth
“All
the glory belongs to God”
Family, friends and pastoral colleagues gathered at Murwillumbah church (NSW) on January 11 to witness and celebrate Pastor Boris Jovinov’s ordination to ministry. The special occasion was followed by the baptism of Pastor Jovinov’s son, Moses. Pastor Jovinov began his ministry in 2008 as a Bible worker in Sydney before serving in evangelism and teaching roles in the USA. He later worked as a church planter and chaplain in Northern Australia before moving to NNSW in 2017, where he served in outreach and pastoral roles. Since 2021, he has been at Murwillumbah church, where he is now the senior pastor. Reflecting on his ministry journey, Pastor Jovinov said, “If any good has come from my ministry, all the glory belongs to God for His unfailing faithfulness.” Pastor Jovinov is married to Marlena and they have four children—Noah, Moses, Yelena and Anna.—Henrique Felix
Young people make BIG DECISIONS at Summer Camps
Adventist summer camps are a time of spiritual growth and fun with friends, and Australia’s summer camps were no different. Throughout January and December, each conference held week-long camps for kids, tweens and teens, filled with engaging activities and programs designed to draw young people closer to Jesus.
Each camp featured a variety of activities such as water sports, mountain biking, rock climbing, high ropes courses, archery and more. Equally important to the activities, campers were blessed by worship teams and speakers who shared messages based around a central theme. As North NSW Youth director Ashley Smith said, “Every element of camp, from morning devotionals to evening worship, is designed to help young people encounter God. The staff are committed to creating an environment where campers can explore and deepen their faith.”
Camps are a powerful experience, as kids can connect with peers from across their conference as well as be mentored by volunteer staff, drawing closer to each other and Jesus as they learn they
are not alone in their spiritual journeys. Summer camps are also a place where many young people make the important decision to follow Christ. Naomi Janmaat, the Victorian Conference communications coordinator, said, “We can confidently say that these camps are transformative. They provide young people with the space to make life-changing decisions about their future and their faith. Whether they've been part of the church community for years or are attending for the first time, summer camps have consistently proven to be a time of profound spiritual growth and connection.”
Across Australia, more than 1900 kids and teens attended camp. Nearly half requested Bible studies, 900 altogether, and 735 requested baptism. These numbers are a testament to all the organisers and volunteers, as well as to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. As Shanna Duke, NNSW youth department assistant said, after praying with 10 campers who had made the decision for baptism, “Moments like these make all the preparation worth it.”
Victoria 2025 was a special year for the Victorian Conference as they celebrated their 100th anniversary of Adventist summer camps. The first camp occurred in 1925 at Yarra Doon (near Warburton), with only 20 campers attending, and was in fact the first Adventist summer camp in Australia.
This year, VicYouth summer camps had more than 200 attendees across three sessions, with speakers Michaela Truscott, Natasha Su’a and Daniel Matteo sharing messages on what it means to be “Forever Young” and how God makes “everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11). In Victoria alone, 138 requested Bible studies and 123 confirmed their desire for baptism.
As Ms Janmaat said, “It’s inspiring to see the culture that has developed over the last century through the dedication of our staff, the strength of our programs and the relationships built at camp.”
Ashley Jankiewicz assistant editor, Adventist Record
Each year Adventist teens ranging from ages 14-18 attend summer camp. While this may be viewed as just another event in a busy calendar to many church members, it’s the highlight of the year for all teens who attend!
At summer camp teens find a sense of community, friendship, confidence and a new-found love for God! I’ve been going to summer camp for two years now and each year I come back ready to share God and His wonders to others. This is not an outlying experience as many teens find themselves participating in church and committing themselves to God after being at summer camp.
During camp, we do at least two activities a day: one is always centred around God and relates to the spiritual theme of the camp, and the other is one picked when the teen signs up. Plus, the staff put on a wonderful nightly worship with music and games, and a sermon that never fails to capture the attention of everyone in the room!
Not only that but the upbeat worships and fun, God-centred activities draw in teens of different religions to the church. At this recent camp two of my friends gave their lives to God and got baptised on the Sabbath! They did this because summer camp 2024 had set their hearts on fire for God, and led to their decision to start Bible studies!
Summer camp is a big reason as to why many teens still attend church instead of getting swept up in worldly things. It's impacted the lives of lots of people around Australia!
So this year, will you encourage your teens to join summer camp next year?
Lily Fernandes is 16 years old and attends New Hope Church, Sydney, NSW.
The 2024 Camp Mission Offering has surpassed all expectations, raising more than $A640,000—far exceeding the initial goal of $400,000.
This incredible generosity from church members across Australia and New Zealand is set to make a lasting impact in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where the Church is experiencing unprecedented growth following the PNG for Christ 2024 evangelistic campaign.
South Pacific Division stewardship director Julian Archer expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support. “Thank you for your generous camp mission offerings, which are already being invested in Papua New Guinea to make a difference for eternity,” he said.
The funding comes at a crucial time for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Papua New Guinea. PNG for Christ resulted in an extraordinary influx of new members, with more than 170,000 baptisms and tens of thousands more currently engaged in Bible studies.
However, this rapid church growth has created an urgent need for more trained pastors, leaders and resources to nurture and retain new believers.
In response to this challenge, the 2024 Camp Mission Offering is being directed towards three key initiatives:
• Expanding the Omaura School of Ministry: The rapid growth of the Church requires more frontline ministers to evangelise, lead and disciple new members. The offering is funding the construction of additional classrooms and dormitory rooms at Omaura School of Ministry to accommodate more theology students.
• Training and empowering senior elders: With thousands of new congregations forming across PNG, equipping local church elders with leadership and pastoral skills is a top priority. These training programs will provide them with the necessary tools to lead their congregations effectively and support new believers in their faith journey.
• Providing life skills training for new members: With almost 80 per cent of
Papua New Guinea’s population relying on self-employment for their livelihood, life skills training is a vital tool for both economic empowerment and church growth. The Church has seen that small business and vocational training programs not only help new believers sustain their families but also strengthen church membership retention.
“The impact of this generous offering is already being seen on the ground,” Mr Archer said. “Construction projects are underway, tens of thousands have attended practical life skills training camps and thousands of church elders are being trained in every mission of PNG.
“The investment in training, leadership development and practical skills will not only support new believers but also help sustain the growth and mission of the Church in PNG for years to come.”
Tracey
Bridcutt Communications director, South Pacific Division.
So Good Berry Muffins
Ingredients
1 cup white flour
¼ cup wholemeal flour
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup castor sugar
6 Weet-BixTM, finely crushed
1 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup So GoodTM Regular soy milk
3 tbsp margarine, melted
Method
1. Sift flours, baking powder and cinnamon into a large bowl.
2. Stir through sugar, crushed Weet-Bix and berries.
3. Combine egg, So Good Regular and margarine.
4. Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Spoon mixture into lightly greased muffin tins.
6. Bake in a moderately hot oven, 190˚C for 30 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
What Makes Berries So Good?
Berries are jam-packed full of health-promoting nutrients. Sanitarium's dietitians share the top three berry health benefits:
• Micronutrients: More commonly known as vitamins and minerals, these are dietary elements that your body needs to function, which berries have in spades. They are vital to healthy development, disease prevention and wellbeing. Berries typically contain vitamins C and E, folate, magnesium and manganese (but vary in levels across each berry type).
• Polyphenols: These are the main type of bioactives (a compound which has a health promoting effect in your body) in plant foods and are abundant in berries. They give berries their vibrant colours, flavours and aromas as well as act like prebiotics in the gut.
• Fibre: The indigestible parts of plant foods that contribute to a healthy digestive system and gut. Berries contain insoluble and soluble fibre that promotes good gut health and helps feed the "good" gut bacteria. These gut bacteria produce compounds that can have positive impacts on other parts of the body, including the brain.
pastors' Supporting
Iam not a singer. Sure, I’m musical, but singing has never been a strength of mine, even at age three. There we stood, however, my big sister and I in matching dresses, singing an old Heritage Singers kids’ song, with my dad accompanying us on the guitar. But audiences somehow forgive littlies for their singing inabilities, not really seeming to mind if you forget when to come in and get elbowed in the side by your conscientious older sister. That, however, wasn’t the only time we sang in church. We sang again. And again.
Why? We were a pastor’s kids. I think it might be a universal experience that pastors’ kids sing in church (or if not singing, then doing something else up front). Some go on to sing as adults, though my vocal cords never got that far. Then again, however, I’m not your typical pastor’s kid. My dad was preaching less by the time I was seven, having turned mostly to academia. We were still a ministry family though and faced similar challenges to other pastors' families. It’s not easy, being parents in a ministry family, and it’s not always
easy being a pastor’s kid (PK). Though I know that what helped my parents the most was the people who rallied around them and supported them through the challenging times when my sister and I were growing up. As a church member, you might not see how you are a part of caring for your pastor’s family, however, church members’ ways of responding and relating to them are vital for the wellbeing of your pastor’s children. You and your community can do more than you know.
Many pastors’ kids struggle with the
kids
expectations placed upon them. PKs’ experiences have generally improved over time, with expectations not being as high and church members being more understanding. It’s not quite as extreme as someone saying, “You’re the pastor’s kid, you should know better”; however, the subtle expectations still lingering do take a toll. Even a look or a word towards a PK that conveys disappointment at a level greater than towards any other child can place undue pressure. Some of these expectations we have may be subconscious, and we may not
realise the harm we are imposing. Perhaps we need to change our mindsets, examining ourselves to see if we hold any unfair expectations on the children or teenagers of our pastors. Remember that as humans we are not perfect. Instead of expecting something from a child or teenager that you yourself cannot achieve, pastoral parent or not, why not show them the beautiful God we should be showing everyone? Our God knows we cannot be perfect yet still loves us.
Another challenge for PKs is the dreaded moves. Moving is challenging for everyone. In fact, research shows that among the top five stressors in life, moving ranks third, following a death and a divorce. Studies also show that it is particularly difficult for pre- and early teens to move. Despite this, time and time again, there are pastoral families who are moved around the country, and in some cases, like mine, the world. This also may be lessening to a degree as more people realise the toll this takes on families, however, there are still families who uproot their children every few years. Each move forces pastors’ kids to leave behind their school and their friends—their known life—and casts them into an unknown life, where they need to make new friends in a new school. No-one likes to be the new kid, and it can be detrimental to adolescents’ abilities to form healthy relationships as well as being harmful to their mental health. Moving, no matter how necessary, is painful, and so this is when we as church members can be helpful. We can support our pastor’s kids by either connecting with them or by connecting them with others in the community. Include them in your family events if you have kids the same age. Mentor them, check in with them, show interest in their lives, and be willing to get close to them despite the knowledge that they may leave within a couple of years. All children and teens need adults other than their parents in their lives, and with PKs often raised without their extended family and with church members holding them at arm’s length, they miss out on that needed connection. They need you to support them and show them that they are loved and not expected to be anyone but themselves.
Lastly, conflict within the church can affect pastors’ kids in untold ways. When disagreements arise between church members and the pastor, PKs struggle to distinguish between the conflict coming from individual church members and the church. This can lead to them blaming the church, and sometimes even leaving the church, as they come to see it as a place of conflict and animosity towards their family. It is often said that ministry is a lifestyle; a pastor’s job isn’t just a 9-5 that they leave behind and then go home to their family. Their job is on display for their whole family, and the whole church, to see. So, when there’s conflict, it causes stress and unhappiness that radiates through the family, felt by all, whether the PK is five or 15 years old. Even when ministry parents try to shield their children from disagreements with church members—my parents always went walking when they needed to discuss conflict—the children still feel the anxiety, even if they don’t know the details. So, when you’re caught up in conflict with your pastor, remember that how you act and what you say will affect the pastor’s family. Keep your discussions as private as possible, while also remembering that the pastor is also human, someone with the same emotions and challenges of ordinary life as everyone else. Remember the pastor’s family is not immune to the fallout of conflict.
Pastors’ kids need to be cherished like all the church’s children, brought up in an environment of love, not with the expectation of perfection. They need to be treated the same as their peers—just because their parent is the pastor in no way means their behaviour should be held to a different standard. Connect with them and help them connect with others. Encourage them in their own strengths, apart from what their ministry family does. Show them that the church is on their side. This is how we’ll help our pastors’ kids stay in the church. This is how we’ll help our pastors’ kids experience the love of Jesus and keep them believing that the church has something for them.
Something I dreamt of often as a little girl was how cool it would be to be a princess. I could wear lavish gowns of silk and lace, topped with a sparkling tiara. I could wake up with no real responsibilities, go to balls and dance with a handsome prince. I imagined royalty to be all glitz and glamour.
As time passed, my desire to be a princess slowly faded. The reality was I couldn’t wake up and be royalty or do a degree on how to be a princess. Royalty wasn’t really something to aspire
towards—unless it’s in heaven of course. Growing up watching Disney princesses, it was easy to forget that royalty is less about fairytale endings, and more about a life of politics, responsibilities and drama. Is there a better way of describing Esther’s story?
Here's what we know:
Esther found herself in the heart of a political struggle. She was a Jewish woman in a foreign land who rose to the throne of Persia and faced an enormous challenge. She didn’t step into a glass slipper and live happily ever after with
her prince charming. Rather, she was taken to the palace where her beauty and purity earned her the best place in the harem (Esther 2:9). One can assume it wasn’t a willing process either as she was taken to the king’s palace upon his order and edict (Esther 2:8). Not only was Esther taken away from her family, but she was also placed into a foreign environment and surrounded by other women she didn’t know. Now I like to describe myself as a confident and sociable person, but if I was in this situation, I could only imagine how scary
and intimidating it would be. And to make matters worse, Esther was forbidden from revealing her nationality and family background (Esther 2:10).
From there, she went through an entire year of pampering, preparing her to go before the king. Saying it was love at first sight may be a stretch, however, upon seeing her beauty and spending the night with him, he was attracted to her more than the other women and she won his favour and approval (Esther 2:16). King Xerxes, unaware of her Jewish heritage, made her queen before he signed off on the annihilation of Esther and her people (Esther 3:10). The deadly plan, devised by Haman, one of the king's highest officials, was an act rooted in his hatred for Esther's cousin, Mordecai. Esther became caught in the middle of this dangerous plot, torn between the life she lived as queen and the fate of her people.
When Esther heard of the potential demise of her people due to Haman’s schemes, she put it all on the line. She went to the king without receiving an invitation but with an attitude of “if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:17). Esther knew she risked death but went anyway. This moment was a test of her faith and character. Esther had not been raised to be royalty, and the weight of her new position pressed heavily on her. She could have easily stayed silent, hidden in the safety of the palace, but her devotion to her people called her to something greater. It makes me wonder, would I risk my life for my beliefs?
The first answer that comes to mind is yes, but I can think of many occasions where I have found it easier to stay silent. In high school, I went to a Christian school and was the only Adventist in my grade. I didn’t think much of it as many in my grade were also Christian. Yet keeping the Sabbath set me apart very distinctively. People questioned why I went to church on Saturday and why I didn't treat Saturday like every other day of the week. I was teased and told I was wrong. As a teenager who just wanted to fit in, it was an uncomfortable experience that challenged my faith—trying to balance sharing my faith and putting myself out there with getting
along with everyone. Sometimes, even if I disagreed on something, it was easier to just stay quiet.
Reflecting on it, I thought it was an age thing. I was young in age and in my understanding of God and the Bible. However, after spending the past few years in university, that excuse loses much credibility. I found university to be a very secular place, and when discussing religion, Christianity was on the outer. Other popular religions were accepted and respected in contrast to Christianity. I can recall times where my peers would make fun of Christians, and I felt fearful of correcting them and standing up for my beliefs. And these experiences make me wonder, would I risk it all for my belief?
Today, despite these instances that would suggest otherwise, I would still say yes. God works through imperfect people in incredible ways. Many characters felt too weak, too fearful and inadequate but God didn’t give up on them. Moses feared the people wouldn’t believe God appeared to him and felt he couldn’t speak in front of Pharaoh, but God performed miracles through him and delivered the people out of Egypt. Gideon felt too weak to save Israel from Midian, but God made him a mighty warrior. Jeremiah believed he was too young to become a prophet, but God worked through him to fulfil His purpose. Jonah refused to do what God told him and ran away, and despite his disobedience, God used him to save the people of Ninevah. And Esther would have been afraid to share her beliefs. She was in a high position politically where her faith would have been challenged, but God protected the Jewish people and worked through her to deliver them from destruction.
While God is not mentioned within this story, He was still present. As Mordecai says to Esther, “and who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
(Esther 4:14), alluding
that God placed her in this position for this purpose.
As Ellen White, in Daughters of God chapter 2, explained, God worked through women, who He chose to be His representatives, using them to “gain great and decisive victories” (p45). God, on more than one occasion, used women in times of emergency, bringing them to the frontline and working through them to save the lives of His people (p45). While God may not be mentioned, through Esther He was able to protect His people. As Ellen White explained, during a time of hopelessness for the Jewish people, Esther and the women alongside her, through “fasting, prayer and prompt action”, achieved salvation for their people (p45).
Through her bravery and God’s intervention, the king granted her request, and the Jewish people were saved from destruction. She became an instrument of God’s will, working within the messy, unpredictable world of politics and power to uphold the Covenant and ensure her people's survival. So, from the information we read in the Bible about Esther, I would like to think that she did get her happily ever after in the end.
Kiera Bridcutt intern, Adventist Record
What churches can learn from
PARKRUN
As someone deeply interested in promoting health and wellbeing, I’ve been fascinated by the meteoric rise of the Parkrun phenomenon.
In case you haven’t heard of it, Parkrun is a free, community-based walk/run. The initiative began in 2004, when Paul Sinton-Hewitt, struggling with his own wellbeing after an injury, invited friends to join him for a 5-kilometre jog around Bushy Park in Teddington, UK. What started with 13
runners and five volunteers has grown into a global movement. Today, Parkrun takes place every weekend in more than 2500 locations across 23 countries, involving approximately 342,000 participants and 39,000 volunteers. To date, the initiative has recorded more than 100 million participants.
I love how Parkrun brings people together to do something positive for their health and wellbeing, and I’ve come to see that there are many lessons
churches can learn from the Parkrun model. After all, success leaves clues, and the Parkrun phenomenon is undeniably a success story.
So, what is it about Parkrun that has made it so successful and attractive, and how might we intentionally incorporate these strategies into church life?
A warm welcome for all
One of the hallmarks of Parkrun is its welcoming atmosphere. Before
each event, the volunteer run director enthusiastically greets the participants and acknowledges how wonderful it is to see everyone. Visitors are invited to introduce themselves and share where they’re from, which always elicits a round of applause. This simple gesture of recognition makes people feel valued and welcomed. Parkrun’s philosophy of inclusivity encourages everyone to “come as you are”. There’s no pressure to meet a particular standard—whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, you are warmly embraced.
After the event, participants are invited to gather at a local café to socialise. This fosters a sense of community and connection. The warmth and intentionality behind these gestures make newcomers feel at home, a practice churches can embrace. A friendly smile, a heartfelt “We’re glad you’re here”, and an invitation to stay and connect can go a long way in making people feel welcomed and loved.
Celebrating effort, not perfection Parkrun makes people feel good about themselves by celebrating participation and personal milestones. While the event is timed so participants can track their own progress, there’s no competitive atmosphere—it’s all about showing up and doing your best. Milestones such as completing 50, 100 or even 250 events are acknowledged with applause in the pre-event briefing.
In the pre-event briefing, milestones like reaching “Regionnaire” status—visiting all the Parkrun events in a region— are also celebrated. I recently spoke to a man who had travelled to every Parkrun in New South Wales, more than 100 events in total. He shared how much he enjoyed meeting new people and connecting with the community—to be honest, it made me feel a little guilty that I haven’t even visited all the churches in my local area. The joy and sense of accomplishment on participants’ faces when their milestones are celebrated is something churches can emulate.
Recognising and affirming people’s efforts—no matter how big or small—can encourage growth and foster a positive environment.
Social connection at its core
At its heart, Parkrun is about building relationships. The weekly gatherings provide an opportunity for people to connect, share stories and support one another. It’s more than just a physical activity; it’s a social event where friendships are formed, and a sense of belonging is cultivated.
Churches, too, should prioritise social connection. By creating spaces and opportunities for meaningful interactions—whether it’s through small groups, shared meals or community events— churches can foster deeper relationships and strengthen the bonds within their congregation.
Changing lives, one step at a time
The transformative impact of Parkrun is well-documented. Many participants share stories of improved physical health, mental wellbeing, and even restored confidence and purpose. The beauty of Parkrun is its simplicity—one step at a time, people experience change. One of Parkrun’s strengths is its consistency. Every weekend, rain or shine, participants know they can count on Parkrun. This reliability fosters trust and loyalty.
Churches are in the business of transformation as well, but it’s worth reflecting on how effectively this is communicated and experienced. By focusing on small, achievable steps, being dependable and celebrating progress, churches can better support individuals on their journey of faith and personal growth.
Opportunities to serve
Parkrun is entirely volunteer-driven, giving participants a chance to contribute to the community in meaningful ways. Whether it’s setting up the course, timing runners or cheering others on, volunteers play an essential role in the event’s success. Serving not only gives people a sense of purpose but also strengthens their connection to the community.
Churches can offer similar opportunities for members to serve and make a difference. By empowering people to use their gifts and talents, churches can
foster a sense of ownership and purpose among their congregation.
Making a difference
Parkrun meaningfully contributes to the communities it serves. It’s a safe, inclusive space where people feel supported and valued. The event’s positive impact on participants and the broader community is undeniable.
This raises an important question for churches: Would your community notice if your church closed its doors today?
Churches have the potential to be a vital part of the local fabric, addressing needs and making a tangible difference in the lives of those around them. By intentionally engaging with their communities, churches can become beacons of hope and love.
Local but global
Parkrun is a global initiative that remains deeply connected to local communities. Each event reflects the unique character of its location while contributing to a broader movement.
Similarly, churches can balance being part of a global mission with serving their specific communities. By addressing local needs and celebrating cultural diversity, churches can remain relevant and impactful while staying true to their greater purpose.
Conclusion
Parkrun’s success offers valuable lessons for churches. Its welcoming environment where people are accepted as they are, emphasis on personal growth and focus on community connection have made it a global phenomenon. By adopting these principles and embedding them more intentionally into church life, we can create spaces where people feel valued, supported and transformed.
After all, the goal of both Parkrun and church is to bring people together, enrich lives and foster a sense of belonging. Let’s take these lessons to heart and continue to build communities that inspire hope and transformation.
Professor Darren Morton Director of the Lifestyle Medicine and
Health Research Centre, Avondale University.
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CELEBRATE GOD’S GRACE AND OUR JOURNEY
SATURDAY MARCH 15, 2025
10AM - 4PM AT BORDER CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 24 AVA AVE, THURGOONA NSW 2640 10:00am Thanksgiving service with Pr Terry Johnson 12.30pm Lunch 2:00pm
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of sharing memories, a self-guided school tour and refreshments.
Wedding
BOEHM—WILLEMSE . Jacob
Bradley Boehm, son of Wayne and Carol Boehm (Cooranbong, NSW), and Lieuwné Willemse, daughter of Johannes and Gillian Willemse (Biarra, Qld), were married on 6.1.25 at Bracknell Lodge, Toowoomba. Jacob and Lieuwné first met at a youth planning event for young people in Ipswich and Toowoomba area. They now plan to settle in Toowoomba, where Jacob serves as the associate pastor of the Glenvale church, and Lieuwné will complete her nursing studies. They are excited to serve God as a married couple in the community and contribute to the growth of His kingdom.
Wayne Boehm
Obituaries
ALLENCHEVELLIER,
Margaret Annice, born 6.6.1936 in England, UK; died 22.1.25 in Port Pirie, SA.
Peacefully falling asleep at the age of 88, Margaret was laid to rest surrounded by her children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and church family at Whyalla church. Margaret left a beautiful legacy of love and care towards all people, reflecting the love and care of her Saviour Jesus Christ.
Dietrich Stahl
BINNS , Mary Caroline (nee Edwards), born 20.7.1936 in Ballina, NSW; died 20.1.25 in Avondale House, Cooranbong. She was predeceased by her daughter, Kerrie Bishop in 2021. Mary is survived by her husband, Bill (Cooranbong); son-in-law, Phillip Bishop (Dora Creek); and grandchildren, Annalea and Caleb Gill (Bathurst), and Matthew and Bronte Bishop. Mary will be greatly missed by her family. We are looking forward to seeing
Mary and her daughter, Kerrie when Jesus comes.
Phil Bishop, Uriah St Just, Ernst William
CHERRY, Bavin, born 30.1.1945 in Oakey, Qld; died 12.1.25 in Toowoomba. In 1965 he married Robyn Warboys. Bavin was predeceased by his son, Bradley. In 1978 he married Shirley Perrett. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; son, Gary and Clara; stepdaughters, Kym and Brendan Hassan, Susan and Lisa; and grandchildren, Nalani, Michah, Kai and Luka. A farmer and truck salesman, Bavin was known throughout Toowoomba. He played a significant role in building the church at Glenvale and a new Adventist school nearby. He was a member of the Conference Executive Committee as well as the South Pacific Division Executive Committee. He served his local church in various offices and had a burning desire to share his faith wherever he could. His love for the sick, the lonely and poor will never be forgotten.
Vern Parmenter, Daniel Christie
JUDD, Pastor Alfred David, born 11.7.1926 in Wonthaggi, Vic; died 18.1.25 in Avondale House, Cooranbong, NSW. In 1950 he married Melva Lee, who predeceased him in 2004. In 2005 he married Una Timms, who predeceased him in 2017. He was also predeceased by his son, Graeme in 2003. David is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hicks (Maitland). He served the Church in many capacities. He managed the Sydney Adventist Hospital farm, building up a champion dairy herd. Having trained as a nurse, David was called into ministry and became health and temperance director in the Victorian and Greater Sydney conferences. He was a much-loved pastor of churches in New Zealand, Victoria and NSW. In retirement David gave almost 20 years of voluntary service to the Cooranbong Community Services.
Ross Goldstone
LORD, Lexie Christine (nee Campbell), born 20.12.1943 in Wilcannia, NSW; died 8.1.25 in Logan Hospital, Qld. She was married to Robert. Lexie is survived by her children, Belinda
Peuser, Kevin, Leonie Deaves and Geoffrey. Lexie was a positive lady who cared deeply for her family and others above herself. She loved the Lord and will be awaiting His return.
Tim Merritt
MERRITT, Annette Betty (nee Mitchell), born 13.7.1939 in Warburton, Vic; died 26.10.24 in the Gold Coast University Hospital, Qld. She is survived by her husband, Howard (Ballina, NSW); children, Gordon and Robyn (Ballina), Timothy and Sherree (Wollongbar) and Julie (Goonellabah). Anne was loved by all. She gave so much and asked so little. She loved her Lord and is now awaiting His return.
Tim Merritt
Positions Vacant
SIGNS PUBLISHING COMPANY
WARBURTON, VIC
NAPORA, Andrzej Jan (Andrew), born 31.7.1935 in Brzesc, Poland; died 17.5.24 in Adelaide, SA. He was predeceased by his wife, Irene and daughter, Lily. Andrzej is survived by his daughter, Sophie Winnicki (Adelaide). He was a beloved, early member of the College Park church in Adelaide. He dedicated much of his life to reaching out to others about Jesus’ love and dedicated over 45 years to running the Voice of Hope Prophecy broadcast in Polish. He was a gracious man who loved Jesus and people and will be sadly missed.
Jan Pollock, Ricardo Scheffer, Matt Hunter
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