The voice of Queensland Baptists December 2011
A lifeline for Kamala The joy of Christmas Worship in the New Creation Print post approved ISSN: 11323-7829 The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890. This series Vol 9 Issue6.
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Contents
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In this issue Comment: David Loder Speaking out: John Sweetman Baptisms Around the regions Milestones Joy and fruitfulness QB Convention 2012 Persecution brief Reviews Fun zone Classifieds
05 06 08 09 15 18 25 36 42 45 46
QB partners Introducing Karen Haynes (Global Interaction) A lifeline for Kamala (BWAA)
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QB ministries Something more than gold (QB Archives) Kids at risk (QB kids & their families) Young people seeking justice (QB Youth) His perfect timing (QB Women) The ultimate church camp (QCCC) An opportunity for Christians to speak out positively for love and justice (QBC) Financial house foundations (QB Gift Foundation) Articles Support for new pastors Seeking I’m a Christian! The joy of Christmas Do you believe in a happy ending?
19 20 22 24 26 28 30 35 37 38 39 40
Our cover: Kamala’s huge smile (A lifeline for Kamala) helps to answer BWAA’s question, ‘What does Jesus want for his birthday?’ The opportunities to give beyond our own family and friends this Christmas are plentiful!
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News, views & issues
From the Editor Hello everyone! John Sweetman has some comforting words for us in this issue (Worship in the New Creation). He reminds us that even though we feel the inadequacy of our worship here and now, a time is coming when ‘we will see God, face to face, and he will wrap his arms around us and we will be free of mixed motives and distractions’. How encouraging! There’s so much news in Around the regions about how our churches are responding to needs in their local communities, and beyond, including a report from Glasshouse Christian Country College about their team’s visit to Fiji. In (Joy and fruitfulness), Sue McGinty tells us about a recent mission trip to Vanuatu and all that was achieved there. Don’t miss Kamala’s story (A lifeline for Kamala). This lady’s life has turned around since she came into contact with staff from International Nepal Fellowship who partner with Baptist World Aid to bring hope and support to people in desperate poverty.
The qb is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association, published bimonthly by Queensland Baptist Services Group in February, April, June, August, October and December. Editor: Robynne Milne Advertising: Emily Twible Design: Shell Graphix Print: Printcraft This magazine is printed with soy based inks and paper from sustainable forest plantations. We welcome reader feedback and opinions about our articles. Remember to include your full name and postal address. Articles and advertising in The qb express the opinions of the authors, not necessarily the editor or publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the correctness of facts and information however we cannot accept responsibility for errors. The publishers reserve the right to accept or decline any advertising.
Sue Peters (His perfect timing) expresses a few sentiments about waiting for the birth of her baby, Leah, some years ago; sentiments that most mums will understand! She reminds us that God’s plan and timing are perfect. Jim Greenbury also encourages us to wait patiently for God’s response when we’re seeking physical healing (Look to the Great Physician). Christmas is almost here! It has been a very tough year for many Queenslanders, and it’s still a huge struggle for a lot of people. Karl Faase, guest speaker at Convention next year, prays that we will experience real joy this Christmas; ‘the joy of knowing that whatever you face, Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection allows you to know deep, abiding peace and joy.’ I would like to add my own Christmas greeting. Whatever the year has brought you and whatever lies ahead, I pray that God will bless you richly as you seek to serve him. I trust that your Christmas will be happy and peaceful, and filled with the joy of knowing Christ. Robynne Milne Editor
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Comment
Loving God... BETTER – Intentional (Prayer) Ministry ‘(We) will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word’ (Acts 6:4). There is nothing wrong with activity. It is commended in the Bible and, no doubt, most church leaders wouldn’t mind a bit more involvement by some people in their congregations! However, prayer remains a priority. For the Twelve it was an either/or situation: waiting on tables or the ministry of the Word of God. Same for the first deacons: either/ or. But, for the church as a whole, it was a both/and situation. All areas needed to be covered. Now, I don’t think, for one minute, that the demarcation was so complete that the Twelve didn’t serve, and the deacons didn’t minister the Word. It was a matter of emphasis and priority. Prayer must never be neglected! Research done by Grey Matter Research in 2005 among ministers across a variety of denominations in the United States revealed that only 16% of Protestant ministers were very satisfied with their personal prayer life. Another 47% were somewhat satisfied, 30% were somewhat dissatisfied, and 7% were very dissatisfied with their prayer life. It is interesting that the level of satisfaction pastors had with their own prayer life varied substantially according to their ages. Only 9% of pastors under age 45 were very satisfied with their prayer life, along with 13% of those 45 to 59 years old. But 30% of all pastors 60 or older were very satisfied – more than three times the proportion of younger ministers. Learning to pray is a life-long adventure, but progress is made by those who have the endurance! Topics for prayer were also explored. The most common subject of ministers’ prayers is the needs of individual members of their congregations. Ninety-eight percent of all pastors had prayed about this topic in the seven days preceding the study. The next highest seven topics were: • • • • • • •
the congregation’s spiritual health – 94% spiritual growth for their church – 94% wisdom in leading their church – 94% personal spiritual growth – 86% the right things to say in a sermon – 82% the country as a whole – 82% their own, or their family’s needs – 81%
Prayer is an activity in which every one of us, as Christians, ought to be engaged; not just pastors. However, by giving prayer due attention and intention, what is an indispensible part of the Christian life can become an enjoyable and exciting experience. Perhaps these thoughts may help! Ministry Matters: Convention 2012 We continue to look forward with great anticipation to our next Convention which promises to be an excellent time of learning, fellowship and refreshment. I look forward to seeing you there. Registration of Ministers All new ministers are now ‘Registered’ rather than ‘Accredited’. There are some significant differences with the new approach. To be a Registered Minister, one must have a call to a ministry setting, a mentor, and a Personal Ministry Development Plan. All currently Accredited Ministers are encouraged to transition to Registration. A new development has been the issuing of identification cards for Registered Ministers. Any questions can be answered by your Regional Consultant. Finally… On behalf of the great team here that serve you in the churches, I would like to extend Christmas greetings to you. We trust that somewhere during this busy time of the year, you will be able to take time out for personal reflection on this great love that God has shown in giving his Son to live on earth, and to die for the world. Happy Christmas and have a fantastic New Year! David Loder General Superintendent, Queensland Baptists gs@qb.com.au
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Speaking out
Worship in the New Creation This is a short section of the new subject on worship that John is presently writing. He will teach the subject in class on Wednesday evenings in Semester 1 2012, and it will also be available online for distance students. It will take an in-depth look at biblical worship, historical worship, contemporary worship and the future of worship, and will provide helpful ideas and resources for worship leaders. Revelation 21 and 22 describe the culmination of worship - what our worship will be like and how it will be different when Jesus returns and fully establishes his Kingdom. Let’s take a quick look at the future. The Setting At present worship is occurring in both heaven (the place from where God rules) and earth (the place where man lives). Our worship on earth is very important to God but it remains a pale imitation of what is happening in heaven because we only see a reflection of God and because we are so damaged by sin. However, the book of Revelation indicates that the divide between earth and heaven will be gone in the new creation. In Revelation 21:1, John says, ‘Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea’. Both heaven and earth will no longer remain in their present form, but will merge together. John describes this future merger (21:2) as the new Jerusalem (the centre of God’s reign) coming down out of heaven ready for her husband (the recreated earth). So God will live with his people in the new heaven/earth. It will have both the healthy physicality of earth (including Christians with new bodies) and the perfect spirituality of heaven. This new place will be magnificent (21:9-21) and will be filled with the glory of God (21:11). There will be no need for a temple or sun, because God himself will live in this place with his people (21:3, 22) and he will provide the light (21:23; 22:5). His glory will be seen everywhere. It will be a place of perfection with both sin and sinners excluded (21:8, 27). It will be a wonderful and exciting place to live with God forever. This is our hope as Christians. The New Relationship But the best thing will not be the place, but the closer relationship with God that we will have. Paul writes about the changes that will occur when God’s Kingdom fully comes (1 Cor. 13:12): ‘Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.’ God in all his glory will be with us (21:3) and we will see him face to face (22:4). To be able to live personally with God, there will need to be considerable changes in our lives and situations. Our sin will be completely gone (21:27). We will no longer hurt God and others by our rebellion and hard-heartedness. We will also be free from the consequences of sin. Our problems will be gone. God personally will deal with all our pain (21:4) so that we are no longer limited by our circumstances and weakness. In fact,
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Speaking out everything belonging to the old order of things that is plagued by creation’s brokenness and its cursed consequences will be gone (22:3). We will be clean and pure and whole and free and joyful and perfect. There will be no barriers to an intimate and whole-hearted relationship with our holy God. God our Father will be protecting us completely and Jesus our Brother will be looking after us. One of the elders says to John (Revelation 7:15-17): They are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. We will be amazingly privileged because we will become God’s responsibility and he will look after us incredibly well. So our new relationship with God will be much closer and more real than anything we can presently experience. We will be perfect and free, and God will be always present for us. The picture used in Revelation (as in many other parts of the Bible) is that of a marriage. John heard the shout (19:6-7): ‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.’ We will be married to Jesus. I realise that this is already true in part, but there is much, much more to come. The Content of Worship There is little information in John’s vision about how Christians will respond in worship to this new revelation of God. In the previous section in these notes on heavenly worship (what is happening in heaven now), we saw that some of the worship came from redeemed saints, so their response provides us with helpful information. I will not go over that ground. Although the last few chapters focus on the wonder of the new creation and its benefits for God’s people, the final chapter does offer a few hints of a response.
• 22:3 ‘his servants will serve him.’ The word ‘serve’ is not defined, but it would include both adoration and obedience. God’s people will not just absorb all the incredible privileges and blessings, but will respond with the actions of honouring and serving God. • 22:4 ‘his name will be on their foreheads.’ God’s people will be marked as his. They will be absolutely committed to him. They will offer him everything they have. They will be God’s completely. • 22:5 ‘they will reign for ever and ever.’ The word ‘reign’ suggests that God’s people will have a significant role to play in the new creation. Part of their worship response will be to do what God calls them to do. Contribution to Contemporary Worship So how does John’s description of the new creation, and the new relationship with God that it will produce, assist our present worship? It may actually give us permission to be a little less frustrated at the present state of our personal worship. It’s hard honouring God the way we should and would like to when we can’t see or touch him. We rely on our will and symbols and emotions (assisted by the Spirit, of course). Well, the future new creation reminds us that it won’t always be like this. We will see God, face to face, and he will wrap his arms around us and we will be free of mixed motives and distractions. We can’t expect to get it all right now. I’m not saying that we shouldn’t have some wonderful times of worship when we respond to God’s revelation and really sense God’s presence. But this is not as good as it gets. Of course our worship will improve radically when we see Jesus face to face. It also fills our worship with hope. We’ve only just started on a journey. There is so much more of God to experience. Our worship is heading towards an incredible culmination. I like the way that Due (2005, 238) puts it: Rather, we look forward to that day when the great multitude stand in the nearer presence of the Father, filled to all the fullness of God the Spirit, through whom they are united with the Son. There they will look around and within, and find only worship. Despite all the attacks of the evil one, the drag of indwelling sin and the seductive power of idols through their long history, their song will be one of praise drenched with wonder. In them the commandment will be completely fulfilled: they will have no other God but him. And in them the promise will be fully realised: he is their God and they are his people. John Sweetman Principal, Malyon College John.sweetman@malyon.edu.au
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Baptisms
Please pray for those baptised in all of our churches around Queensland, including: Chuwar Ben Beatty Will Elvy Keely Harlow Tahlia Harlow Lauren Henderson Dan Lloyd
Image: Sugar Reef friends and family watch the baptisms.
Fairfield John Bailey Lili Flynn Sianini Sanggaran Images (L to R): Steve asks Melissa if she acknowledges Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour; Steve baptises Meredith and Steve and John Mohr pray for Stephen.
Baptisms Witness in the north Pastor Steve Ballin, Sugar Reef Baptist Church, sent through these images of the baptisms of Steve Swift, Meredith Swift, Melissa Swift and Alecia Seib. The church community is based in Ingham in the beautiful North Queensland shire of Hinchinbrook. They come from many different backgrounds
but all share a passion to seek and live God’s purpose for their lives. Steve said, ‘The baptisms were held in Stone River, near Ingham. No crocs were sighted on the day!’
Images (L to R) Bekah’s baptism and Marea’s baptism.
And at the beautiful Cedar Falls, not far from Airlie Beach, Marea Robinson and Rebekah Alcorn were baptised by Pastor Phil Alcorn, Whitsunday Baptist Church.
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Forest Lake Charlotte Hope Jazmine Hope Emma Jesberg David McLeod Gateway Josh Brown Brenda D’Alton Sean D’Alton Kate Gowlett Rebecca Lee Tania Marais Michael Nelson Matthew Newland Elissa Slade Jason Turner Meg White Chantelle Wright Sugar Reef Alecia Seib Melissa Swift Meredith Swift Steve Swift Whitsunday Rebekah Alcorn Marea Robinson
Around the regions
More coffee shop than cathedral ‘Soul’, a new church service at Whitsunday Baptist Church, isn’t like a normal service. It’s more like a coffee shop than a cathedral; more like a chat room than a Sunday sermon. ‘We found that quite a large number of people either couldn’t get to church on Sundays because of work, or they just didn’t relate to a “normal” Sunday church service,’ said Phil, Pastor at Whitsunday Baptist Church. ‘We get a lot of sea-changers and people who are looking for something new by relocating to the Whitsundays, and more than a few backpackers. Often, church is the last thing on their minds. We are hoping and praying that “Soul” can be community for them. We have already made contact with people who would never “darken the door” of a church. Some come for the community and discussion, some for live music and free coffee and dessert. Whatever their reasons, one thing is sure: these are not people who would attend a regular Sunday service.’ A few people might not sound like a huge impact, but for Airlie (imagine Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley but with palm trees and a population of less than 10,000) it’s the most effective intentional outreach being undertaken by any church in the area. ‘When we were planning “Soul” we looked at location and times carefully,’ Phil said. ‘We decided on the main street of Airlie and Tuesday night. Why Tuesday night? Only because it isn’t Sunday. It allows those who associate church with negative feelings and experiences to become part of the church community without the baggage they associate with church. “Soul” may not work in every community or in every church, but it is tailored to reach our community. Of course, having the best coffee in town doesn’t hurt either! Can we expect miracles at “Soul”? Well, Jesus turned water into wine: we will just be turning it into coffee. The rest is up to God.’
‘Snowball effect’ One thing led to another at Sunnybank District Baptist Church recently. A young woman in the church shaved her head to promote awareness of, and raise funds for, the devastating famine in East Africa. This moved another young woman to organise a garage sale. Then, things just ‘snowballed’ and the whole church got involved. A veritable army of volunteers assisted with the sorting, pricing, setup and selling. Donations were received from members of the community, some with a loose connection to the church and others who saw the event advertised and brought in some goods. The church had been helping a man with welfare and budgeting. Now ‘back on his feet’, he donated some children’s toys and furniture in appreciation of the help he had received. $10,000 was raised and sent to Baptist World Aid Australia. With matched funding available from the Federal Government, the grand total available to BWAA will be $20,000!
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Around the regions
Encouraging others Image: A very muddy team after a torrential downpour.
Hard work and simple pleasures During the school holidays, a team of 25 students, teachers and friends of Glasshouse Country Christian College and Glasshouse Country Baptist Church visited Fiji; but holidaying was the last thing on their minds. The team worked hard from sun up to sundown, helping with building projects, community service programs, singing and performing drama in schools and running youth groups and kids’ clubs. The students were embraced by the warm hospitality of the Fijian people and amazed at how they had so little material possessions and yet were so happy. From the moment they arrived, the team felt the warmth and friendship of Fiji. At Chapel on the first night, the Bible College students sang a Fijian prayer to the visitors who were moved by the harmony, power and true worship of their singing. During their time in Fiji, the team conducted: sessions at a primary school and at two high schools (dramas, songs, dances, scripture lessons); two kids’ clubs after school (games, craft, stories, songs); a youth group (games, skits and message) and they attended church, home groups, chapel and a village mission where they presented skits, items and personal testimonies. The team also carried out building repairs and block and framework for an office block extension. Although the team worked hard, they were able to squeeze in a little fun. Teenagers who would normally ‘go into withdrawal’ without technology enjoyed simple pleasures such as swimming in a nearby stream, having a game of footy with the locals and playing in the mud after a heavy downpour. It was a tour highlight when the locals taught them how to trap, cook and eat a mongoose - certainly not your average holiday experience. The leaders were very impressed by the behaviour of the Glasshouse Country Christian College students and their willingness to work hard and contribute. Strong friendships were made with the students from Fiji Bible College and it is hoped that this trip will be one of many more to come. It was a life changing trip for the whole team. Some students are already planning their return trip. In the months leading up to the trip, Oakland Farms donated strawberries for sale at the College each Friday. These funds, plus what was raised from a ‘Trash and Treasure’ stall at the school’s Open Day totalled approximately AUD$5,000 which was donated to the Fiji Bible College to help them with their ongoing needs. 10
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Highfields Baptist Young Adults meet every week in the church manse. They bring and share a dinner based on the menu of a foreign country. After dinner they usually spend some time studying the book, ‘Experiencing God’ (Blackaby and King). About twelve months ago, a family moved from Tara Community Church. They were concerned about the spiritual family they had left behind because most of the leadership and preaching would be in the hands of a worker pastor. The young adults agreed it would be great to go to Tara to lead a church service and encourage the congregation. As a result, seven people set off for the first time in March: Alan, April and Bev supplied the music; Erin told a children’s story; Delia delivered the bible reading (and application) and Noel preached. The team was invited back in September. Their plan for the future is to move out from their ‘Jerusalem and Judea’ into the ‘uttermost’ for a trip overseas.
Images T to B): Story time with Delia. April plays for worship.
Around the regions
Jail and Bail It’s every child’s dream! Your school principal is in jail and you have the power to bail him or her out…or not!
Image L to R: Chris Ganter & Geoff Suess (Rocky Tab); Graham Wiseman & Ernie Allen (SHBC)
Recently, Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centre was transformed into Queensland’s newest (and smallest) detention facility. School principals, teachers, leaders, chaplains, church ministers, and even the Griffin mascot from Brisbane State High School were locked up. Crimes included talking too much, running late for meetings and bad hair. Bail was set and members of the community were invited to contribute to the bail required to free the inmates. Some of the offenders had trouble reaching bail as students took revenge for all those lunch time detentions. School families, church members and the whole community turned up to be part of the fun and donated more than $8000 for the cause. Fantastic prizes donated by Fairfield Garden’s retailers and some other local businesses ensured that the donors were also winners.
Image: (L to R) Darrell Crimson (Deputy Yeronga High) Pastor Jim Johnston (Annerley Baptist Church), Pastor Neil Pattemore (Fairfield Christian Family) & Father George Markotsis (Ekibin Anglican Church).
The aim was to raise funds for the work of school chaplains at some of the local schools, including Andrew Foley and Rachel Brown at Brisbane State High School, Melina Windolf at Moorooka State School, Jennifer Bennett at Yeronga State School and Steele Sutton at Yeronga State High School. A school chaplain is a safe person for young people to connect with at school; each provides a listening ear, caring presence, and message of hope. A team from Annerley Baptist provided administrative support for the event. During the week following ‘Jail and Bail’, the Marketing Manager of Fairfield Gardens contacted Pastor Jim Johnston to ask if the church could arrange some Carol Singing in the centre and provide a gift wrapping service in the lead up to Christmas as a Chaplaincy fundraiser! The church is exploring this excellent suggestion, and seeking involvement from other local churches.
Partnership in the Gospel Chris Ganter, Team leader at Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle writes: ‘It was a great joy recently to take part in a handover of our food van to the Stafford North Baptist Church. We had previously used the van when we fed the homeless on the banks of the Fitzroy River every night of the week. Unfortunately, our management team felt that their time was up and we were unable to replace them. Then the Local Council ruled against the van ministry as it attracted “undesirables” who created havoc in the vicinity after the van left. Unfortunately, this bad behaviour can occur out of the frustration and helplessness of people who find themselves destitute with no power to change their circumstances. ‘Even though the van ministry has ceased we are seeking other opportunities in our wonderful city to minister to the poor and needy. We are thrilled that Stafford North could take over management of the van and know that they will continue to use it for the ministry for which we dedicated it. We praise God for the partnerships we have with other Baptist churches which help us all to do the work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please pray for the compassion ministry at Stafford North and pray that Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle will be led into an effective new ministry to serve the struggling people of our community.’
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Around the regions
Unto us a Child is born! Now in its eighth year, the Sunshine Coast Christmas Lights at Lifepointe Baptist Church (formerly Maroochy Baptist) is a Christmas event like no other. Held over two full weeks up to Christmas Eve (10th – 24th December), this family event has grown from a few thousand attendees in its first year to an expected audience of over 30,000 people this year. In preparation for the event, the Lifepointe Baptist Centre undergoes a radical transformation from 21st century church building to 1st century Bethlehem. Against this unique backdrop, visitors are introduced to the sites, sounds (and smells!) of 1st century Palestine via an interactive performance of the Christmas story, as drawn from the Gospel of Luke. Building on upon the birth of Christ, the event progresses through his life, death, resurrection and his saving grace is shared with visitors. It is here that visitors are exposed to the real story of Christmas with opportunities for them to meet their Saviour or be blessed with prayer. This year, new sections have been added to help present the gospel to people of today. Christmas: ‘The Present’ takes people on a challenging contemplative journey into the
challenges of today. People will have an opportunity to reflect and write prayers as they walk through a mosaic of challenging DVDs and testimonies to finish with prayer in a beautifully created garden. Another attraction, a contemporary musical production that shares the Christmas message, will draw visitors to reflect on our Saviour and King: this year’s focus is ‘It’s time for Christmas!’ Christmas Lights is well catered with a Coffee Shop and Candy Bar situated in the entrance foyer as visitors journey through ‘Christmas the Whole Story’. Taste buds will be tantalised by the beautiful food offered all evening in the Food Court and last minute Christmas gifts will be available in the Market Place. Delights for the children include: an animal farm where they can nurse and pat the animals and have their photos taken; free fairy floss, popcorn, face painting, fabulous balloon creations and show bags. If you attend in the first couple of days of the event, you will see a wonderful ventriloquist act. A huge marquee will be erected for the ‘Expo of Hope’ which will host many para church organisations which are bringing hope to many people across the world including: Compassion, Watoto, Bloom, CVC, Yes He is, Destiny Rescue and many more. Many, from far and wide, come to experience this superb event. It’s a great opportunity to bring family and friends to celebrate together and build a wonderful family tradition. Make the journey to 1st Century Bethlehem this year!
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Books, books, and more books! After the outstanding success of the 19th Brisbane Girls Brigade Monster Book Stall in July, Denise Greenstreet thinks back to where it all began: ‘It all started four years ago with a Pioneer Achievement. At first, some of us had doubts about its success. We asked church members and friends to donate their unwanted books. Preparation for the book stall commenced at least six months before the big day. The books started to come in and Mrs G sorted, boxed and labelled them. Len, from our Maintainers’ Club was interested in helping to pack. VCRs, DVDs, CDs, games and jigsaws were also collected. We needed boxes: where can we get boxes? The local IGA has a big bin for used boxes; maybe we can get boxes from them. (Every time we go near the IGA, Mr G says, “No! Not more boxes!” He was very happy when the book stall was over. ‘So, now that it’s four years later, we know what to expect. On the Tuesday before the stall, all the books come out of storage and sorting begins. This year we advertised on our church notice board for books and they came in by the hundreds; even some Spanish and Dutch books,’ Denise said. ‘Although the gates don’t open until 7am, book hunters are outside ready to swoop and it’s busy all through the morning. This year’s book stall was our most successful: we sold about half of the books and raised over $1,500.’
Around the regions
Support and growth
Caption: Colin Marshall
‘Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’ Matthew 28:19-20.
This scripture, known as the Great Commission, has been central to several weeks of studies on discipleship at the City Tabernacle Baptist Church. The weekly Tabernacle Training Time (TTT) sessions led by Deacon Colin Berning, were boosted by a teaching weekend on 17, 18 September with Colin Marshall from the Vinegrowers’ Training Ministry. In the midst of many programs and approaches, the simple one-to-one, disciples making disciples concept, set out in the Bible, is often bypassed. Program structures replace the disciples making disciples concept, in the search for the elusive ‘silver bullet’! Churches can become increasingly pastor-centred and the congregation, jaded by waves of new ideas, can disengage. A good response to this drift is to re-discover the Biblical principles of God using people, who are already in the church community, to reach other people. Pastors can recalibrate as trainers and equippers through a range of disciples making disciples ministries such as ‘sub-pastors’ (who frequently will be unordained congregational members), personal disciplers and one-to-one Bible reading.
Watching the whales go by
Matt Brownlie is the new part-time Youth Pastor at Longreach Baptist Church. Matt grew up in Longreach but has been away for the last six years working in mines, on properties and, more recently, studying at Calam College in Townsville. Matt is the perfect Youth Pastor for the bush; not many Youth Pastors can ride a horse or a trail bike, shoot roos and pigs, and disciple young people. ‘Taking on a Youth Pastor has been a real step of faith for us,’ Barry said. ‘But we are blessed with a great group of young people and look forward to seeing God’s Kingdom being extended among them and the youth of our region.’
On t he
Colin Marshal is co-author of the book ‘The Trellis and the Vine’ which examines the connection and distinction between support (trellis) and growth (vine) work for the Kingdom of God. Getting both these settings right is worthy of prayerful, thoughtful consideration. This timely look at Christian discipleship offers classical Biblical teaching and practical help to disciples of Christ in 2011 as they seek to move themselves and the people they disciple forward on the exciting journey from darkness towards God’s marvellous light.
Settled in the saddle
Keith Stevenson at Hervey Bay Baptist Church reports that, for the past seven years, approximately 20 pastors have enjoyed being part of an annual retreat on Fraser Island. Set in an idyllic part of the island on the eastern beach, the venue provides a great setting for each to relax, connect and refresh with other leaders in ministry. The guys love to sit on the seat at the front of the house to watch the whales go by. Times of sharing have been excellent and over the years a deep appreciation has grown for each other’s ministry. Fishing is a bonus that helps achieve the retreat’s aim to refresh each man for the long term in ministry. There were good catches last September; the largest fish landed was a 25lb Jew.
ve o m
• Pastor Brendan Devine has accepted a call to Reedy Creek as Youth & Young Adults’ Pastor • Rev Peter Richards concludes at Kruger Parade in December 2011 • Pastor Garry Toms has accepted a call to Birkdale as part-time Associate Pastor • Rev Will Spann has accepted an Interim ministry at Innisfail.
www.qb.com.au December 2011
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Around the regions
Wisdom for life
Street Party at Chuwar Chuwar Baptist Church held another very successful Street Party on 23 July. The weather was beautiful and a big crowd (8,000 – 10,000 people) attended. The event’s focus was ‘Relief for those affected by the recent floods within our community’. Pastor Jay Beatty said, ‘While attendance was similar to last year, we certainly noticed that the community is hurting financially. Once again, we had a wonderful opportunity to introduce our community to church and ultimately to Christ himself. Attractions on the day included: a number of bands, rides, stalls, fireworks and, of course, the star attraction for the crowd - the Monster Truck. ‘Our church also gave out over 1200 free show bags, an iPad2 and $5000 went to the Community Flood Appeal program. Our desire is to showcase our church, its ministry and message. We have had incredible support from the community and council. Next year, our aim is to find sponsors to cover the whole cost of the Street Party. There are no chaplains in our two nearest schools; Tivoli and Karalee State Schools. Next year, proceeds from the Street Party will go towards supporting a chaplain. We are in the prayer and planning phase for next year’s Street Party and appreciate the blessing of joy and witness the day brings,’ Jay said. At a special ceremony at the church on 18 October, a cheque for $5000 was handed to Ipswich City Council Mayor, Paul Pisasale. Image: Pastor Jay and Mayor Paul Pisasale.
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December 2011 www.qb.com.au
A beautiful wall-hanging was officially placed and displayed on Sunday, 6 November when Cannon Hill Baptist Church held a ‘Quilt Service’. The quilt is the culmination of more than a year’s work by its coordinator, Miriam Buckley. She and her husband, Frank, have been members of Cannon Hill Baptist Church for more than twenty years, and last January they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Miriam, who is a self-taught quilter, caught the vision to create the quilt and became the motivating force, encouraging the ladies at the monthly craft gathering to each express their ideas and thoughts in a panel. These panels now beautifully display each woman’s individuality; give wisdom for life and include scripture as a main theme. During the making of the quilt, Miriam went through a long period of ill-health, and turned to this lovely craft to help fill in the long days. She gave thanks to her husband Frank, who helped in so many ways to get the quilt to completion, including providing much-appreciated cups of tea! The Cannon Hill Baptist Church family truly appreciate this meaningful work of art. Its creation is a testimony to a journey with the Lord and a reminder that ‘a thing of beauty is a joy forever’. ‘He has filled them with skill to do all manner of work of the engraver and the designer and the tapestry maker, in blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine linen, and of the weaver— those who do every work and those who design artistic works,’ (Exodus 35:35).
Beating the odds Congratulations to Emily Delaney from 1st Rockhampton Girls’ Brigade (which meets at Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle) who was awarded her Pioneer Pin recently. Emily is a well- adjusted, confident young lady with a strong faith. Although her life journey has been bumpy, Girls’ Brigade has been a strong anchor for her. Emily joined Girls’ Brigade in Year 1 and enjoyed Cadets very much. When she was 18 months old, she had a fall from an upstairs window and lost her ability to speak, and could only communicate in a very basic way. Due to her determination and the patience of her Brigade leaders she was able to achieve her Cadet stars. With speech therapy, Emily also regained her speech. As she went through High School some family issues caused her to leave home and she also left Girls’ Brigade. However, her ties were strong and she returned after three terms. She needed determination to attend Company. Emily was living with people on Rocky’s southern side and attending school on the far northern side. She travelled to the Church after school, arrived around 4pm and then waited in the Church Bookstore until the Girls’ Brigade leaders arrived at 5.30pm. Emily is appreciative of all the help she received from the leaders during this time. Last year she moved to live with a family approximately 20 minutes out of the city and still lives with them. Emily attends Central Queensland University and works part-time at K Mart. She has a driver’s licence and a car.
Milestones
Life after 100! 11 November 1911 was a significant day. On that day, a group of deacons and lay preachers from the Ipswich Baptist Church met with their Pastor, the Rev J C Farquhar to discuss the possibilities of commencing a Baptist work in Silkstone. The rest, as they say, is history. It’s that history that Silkstone Baptist Church will be celebrating throughout 2012, their centennial year. The celebrations were launched on Sunday 13 November as the church commemorated that initial planning meeting. The Rev Dr David Parker shared from the Scriptures on the topic, ‘Planting a great church’. The celebrations will commence in earnest in March 2012 as the church marks 100 years of worship services. Monthly activities
and events, each aimed at celebrating some aspect of church life and ministry, will take place through to November when the church will consider ‘Where to from here?’ The program includes a Ladies’ Luncheon and a Men’s Dinner (April), A Missions’ Weekend (May), a Sports Celebration (June), a Youth Celebration (July), a Seniors’ Lunch and Hymn Fest with The Crusade Choir (August), ‘Back to Silkstone Month’ in September (every Sunday), and a concert featuring The Brisbane Male Voice Choir and a Centenary Dinner in October. Wherever you go you come across people who have been involved with Silkstone Baptist Church. It’s possible to get a
Milestones
feel for the church’s impact over the years by considering these statistics. When Silkstone Baptist Church became an autonomous church on 5 May 1921, there were 38 members. Since then, more than 1200 people have become members, more than 560 people were baptised and there have been 450 weddings. A number of people have gone into full time ministry. Ask people about the ‘heyday’ of the church and the answers always focus on the past. There were times where there were three packed services each Sunday, more than 40 at prayer meetings and youth groups and Sunday School classes bursting at the seams with children and youth. A milestone celebration presents opportunities to reflect on what contributed to the highs and lows – to learn and to celebrate, and to give thanks to God. It also provides opportunities to ask ‘What if?’ What if God wants another ‘heyday’ for Silkstone Baptist Church? Today, the church at Silkstone is missing (by and large) a couple of generations. There are massive challenges ahead. Some people have been members for more than 60 years while others are new to the faith. Such diversity! Despite this, may Psalm 145:9, ‘One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts’, be true of the church at Silkstone.
Silkstone’s Centenary is being used by the church leadership to honour the Lord for his past work and faithfulness, to provide opportunities for proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and to position the church for the future – for life after 100! The theme for the centennial year is ‘In Christ Alone’. What legacy will the current church be leaving for the next generation? The challenge continues - to live out the ‘Covenant Vow’ of the Church Constitution which says: ‘Being of one mind together before God our Father, we dedicate ourselves to the Lord Jesus Christ, our Redeemer in whom we fully trust, and to one another as brothers and sisters in him. We declare ourselves to be a Church of Christ, where God dwells by his Spirit, united to walk in a manner which is worthy of our profession, to observe his command to advance the Kingdom of God through the preaching of his Word and to give ourselves to work for the love of mankind and the salvation and well being of our fellow man as God by his grace may enable us to do’. For further information about the Centennial events, please contact Silkstone Baptist Church (169 Blackstone Road Silkstone Q 4304), ph 3812 3033, email info@silkbap.org. au, web www.silkbap.org.au.
Jock Whittaker, even more excited than usual!
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December 2011 www.qb.com.au
The Mackay Baptist Church folk are excited that they will soon be moving into their new church building. Real church growth over the past ten years has taken them to a point where the facilities were unable to cope with Sunday numbers, and the variety of ministries that God has laid on their hearts. Pastor Jock Whittaker, who has just accepted a further five year call, is even more excited than usual about how God has been blessing the fellowship. One of the things they are really enjoying is the addition of people from a wide range of nationalities which is giving the church an international flavour and outlook. Recently, the church sent
Milestones
two teams to Vanuatu for what they hope will be an annual mission trip to help and encourage national churches. They also have a great relationship with Queensland Baptist Care which assisted in the development of the Mackay Baptist Care Counselling Service that helps many people and is now fully funded from within the church.
here in Rockhampton. Please pray for us as we continue to make disciples in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.’
Vietnamese Church planted in Rockhampton
In God we stand
A Service of Celebration on 18 September 2011 marked an historic occasion for Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle (RBT) and the Vietnamese Church. After careful planning and joint ministry, Vietnam Grace Church (VGC) in Brisbane, together with RBT, celebrated the establishment of Rocky’s first Vietnamese church. Over two years ago, RBT asked Pastor Emil Rahimov, QB’s Ethnic Churches Coordinator, to come to Rocky to research opportunities for ministry to the city’s overseas communities. He identified two main groups: the International study and research groups at Central Queensland University, and the Vietnamese Community of over 450 people working at Teys Bros Meatworks. RBT has subsequently included many international folk from the university in English Conversation Classes.
Chris Ganter, Senior pastor at Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle writes:
Pastor Emil was then asked to contact Pastor Hoa of VGC to discuss working in partnership with RBT to plant a church among the Vietnamese community in Rockhampton. At the special service of Celebration in September, Pastor Emil inducted the new group as a new fellowship of the Baptist Union of Queensland under the banner of both VGC and RBT. RBT’s Pastor, Chris Ganter, said, ‘During the service, a young man called Vu sang a song he wrote. It was a personal testimony about how he turned from drugs and alcohol to Jesus. There was not a dry eye in the whole auditorium.’ The service was followed by a celebration meal of both Vietnamese and European foods. Also after the service, RBT’s Korean Group asked if they could explore ways to become a Baptist fellowship. Chris added, ‘God is building his church
Pictured: Pastor Kalo and Mary Kaltabang.
‘It was my privilege to represent Queensland Baptists at the 2nd Annual Conference of Vanuatu Baptists. I was asked to bring an inaugural Constitution to their assembly. I presented it in a mixture of Bislama and English. After much discussion, the delegates voted unanimously to accept the Constitution. It is to be translated into French and Bislama, as well as English, to fully represent the Cultural Heritage of Vanuatu. ‘I was then asked if I would induct the pastors and the Director of Vanuatu Baptist Churches on the basis of the Memorandum of Understanding with Queensland Baptists. I was honoured to do so. It was a great privilege to participate in the historical development of the Baptist Movement in Vanuatu. I inducted four pastors including Pastor Kalo Kaltabang as Director. Interestingly, one of those pastors is a French and Bislama speaker but doesn’t speak English. ‘There were about 40 people present at the service. The conference indicated their desire to be officially accredited by the Vanuatu Government as a denomination in Vanuatu now that they have been constituted. They would also like to join the Baptist World Alliance. I believe that the Baptist Movement in Vanuatu now has a structure to move forward and develop as an effective denomination in their country which has as its national motto, “In God We Stand”. ‘Rockhampton Baptist Tab has helped build a house in Pango Village for Pastor Kalo and Mary Kaltabang as the Director of Vanuatu Baptists. This house has become the face and the hub of the denomination in Vanuatu. Lastly, Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle has decided to pay for Pastor Kalo and Mary to attend the QB Convention to be held in Rockhampton in May next year so you can all meet him there. Please pray for the Government and the churches of Vanuatu as they stand up for Christ in areas such as corruption, drug abuse and pornography through mobile phones.’
www.qb.com.au December 2011
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On a mission
Images: Visit to a flooded village. Sue and some of the ladies at Church Camp, Nong Khai.
Joy and fruitfulness For the past five years, Gary and Sue McGinty have taken a team of people from the Cairns Church (as well as family and friends from Victoria and South Australia) to Thailand on mission trips. This year, 16 adults and two children, aged five and eight made the trip. Sue writes: ‘It was an amazing time and we were constantly humbled, challenged and excited to see all that God is doing in that country. After a couple of days in Bangkok, we flew to Udon Thani then on to Sawang Daen Din where we were based for eight days of English classes in schools, visits to proposed new church sites, and a barge trip to a flooded village where we were privileged to be able to take food and water. All their rice crops were washed away and the year ahead looks grim. But most in the village are Christians and they were happy, content and able to trust that the Lord would see them through. What a great privilege to be able to help. People waded through waist-deep water to receive the food and fresh water we had brought for them. In the schools, we had many opportunities to share the Gospel through songs, stories and testimonies. Many people were surprised that not everyone in Australia is very rich, and we are not all Christians. The schools have invited us back whenever we can go. ‘After an amazing eight days, we flew via Bangkok to Chiang Rai to visit Destiny Rescue. The team worked so hard converting a big old building into a recreation room for the rescued girls. Destiny Rescue provides a safe home for many children and teenagers who come from disadvantaged families and sexual exploitation. The girls have a sewing room where they make a wide range of clothes and costumes, and they screen-print T-shirts. The second floor is the jewellery making area – and they make some beautiful pieces. The women in the team bought up big! Also, some are
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December 2011 www.qb.com.au
learning hairdressing, so they will have a future when they leave. Several of us, and many people from our church, sponsor some of these precious young people, many of whom become Christians during their time at Destiny Rescue. ‘After the team returned home, Gary and I went to Nong Khai, near the Laotian border, where Gary was speaker at the annual combined churches’ camp. This was another amazing time: around 120 people came, some travelling for many hours to be there for the fellowship and teaching. The camp theme was “Joy and fruitfulness”. Gary‘s messages were taken from Philippians and the key verse was Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ”. It was a wonderful time and these people are so committed to the Lord. They are warm, friendly, hospitable and loving, and we were humbled by their acceptance of us. And we had lots of fun! ‘We also went to visit several sites where new churches are going to be planted. Despite persecution and little finance, these wonderful families are moving to towns around the north eastern provinces to take the Gospel to their people. They will need support and prayer. There is so much more we could tell: each day bought new blessings and experiences and while the Lord opens the doors, we will continue to go in his strength. We were all kept safe, and we were particularly thankful that Sid Turner (who has been with us a few times) kept so well. Sid has had to cancel previous trips – once for a heart bypass and another time because of leukaemia. He is already talking about next year!’ In a recent email, Sue added, ‘We shared in both services on 13 November and asked if we could support three projects: 1. 2. 3.
To subsidise a new church plant, To provide another water tank for a rural church For general flood relief.
Praise the Lord that the first two are covered and the relief fund is building. Our church is very generous. They have provided most of the money for the food and water which we distributed in the flooded village in the N.E. province.’
QB archives
ARCHIVES Rockh
Something more than gold From the beginning, Central Queensland has been a region dependent on mining and the pastoral industry. Rockhampton got underway as a result of the discovery of gold nearby in the late 1850s. Further impetus was added in the following years, especially at Mount Morgan in the 1880s which became one of the richest fields in the country – and it had large deposits of copper Baptism at Emerald, 1998 as well! Pastoral and agricultural industries began in the area and continued into the 20th century with ambitious programs for development based on irrigation schemes planned in the Callide Valley in the 1920s. In the 1960s, the vast coal deposits in the Bowen Basin were opened up and today there is a gigantic boom, once again spurring a ‘gold rush’ as people seek to make their fortunes with the high wages on offer. However, all this has sometimes been at great cost to individuals, families and communities. Also, economic downturns and natural disasters have often taken a huge toll. During this time, Baptists, along with other Christians, have been witnessing to the gospel and the message that there is ‘something more than gold’ which is worth pursuing. More than twenty churches and other forms of witness (some no longer operating) have been established in the area from the time of the first one in Rockhampton in 1862. Baptist Heritage Queensland is in the final stages of writing the history of these churches ready for an official launch at QB Convention in Rockhampton next year to mark the Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle’s 150th anniversary. Detailed histories of Boyne Island, Mount Morgan and Gracemere churches have already been produced. The book, which will be available at a modest cost, will cover all the churches and other activities such as schools, aged care, children’s home, and camping. It will also include fascinating personal stories and records of creative ministry. Due to the rapid turnover of people in the area, records and some details are often difficult to obtain, making the production of a history now all the more important. Many people have helped with information, documents and photographs. Advance orders are now open - please contact the Archives.
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Baptis ampton
Preserving Our History In Queensland, local churches generally maintain their own records, including archival documents, although in certain circumstances older records may be stored in the Queensland Archives. Documents of archival value will normally include: members’ and deacons’ meetings minutes, roll books, marriage records, baptismal records, correspondence, church histories, photographs and other historical material, building committee reports, annual reports and the records of internal church ministries (such as Women’s Fellowship, Sunday School, Youth Group etc.) We have visited several Queensland Baptist Churches in recent months to look at how churches are preserving archival documents. A number of our churches, particularly older churches, are beginning to store and maintain their historical records in a separate archives room with suitable cabinets and shelves. Some churches have also adopted the guidelines published by Baptist Church Archives, Queensland, in setting up their archives. This is a very positive move and it will ensure that our history is kept for future generations. Churches will find it helpful to keep an up-to-date list of documents held. Documents should be listed and identified according to type (e.g. Minutes of Deacons’ Meetings) and period covered (eg. 1967-1973). It is advisable to identify people in photographs by putting their names on a label and pasting it on the back of the photograph, otherwise the photo will be of no use with the passing of the years. Having an up-to-date list of records held in your archives will save work in the long run by providing church officers with a reference list when inquiries are made by family historians or historical researchers, or when the church decides to celebrate a special anniversary by releasing a church history. Any churches which would like a copy of the guidelines can obtain them by contacting the Archives. The Baptist Archives archives@qb.com.au Phone 07 3878 3178, 07 3354 5642, 07 3256 8897 Mail The Baptist Archives, QB Centre, PO Box 6166, Mitchelton Q 4053
www.qb.com.au December 2011
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QB kids & their families
Kids at risk As I write, I am sitting in ‘Macca’s’ at Sydney International Airport, waiting to board a flight to Africa. As I enjoy my skinny cappuccino (is the ‘skinny’ really doing any good?), I see a young family also heading off, probably for the holiday of a lifetime. Dad is taking family photos, mum is on the computer, possibly making last minute arrangements and the kids are eating and playing.
there is a new range of cards for parents to give to children that wish them a good sleep as they won’t be there to say ‘goodnight’… again. These are great challenges for the church; we must address children at risk in both areas. It even boils down to how we treat children in our church. Do they have the same Kingdom
I am very aware of the fact that in a couple of hours I am heading into territory where children, simply because of their geography of birth, have not even heard of a family holiday, let alone have any chance of experiencing one. I’m going to a place where children live in the great vulnerability of extreme poverty. TESOL Training Centre, Windsor Road Baptist Church, Red Hill, Brisbane e:admin@interculturaltraining.com.au
Yet both lots of kids are at risk; either from poverty or prosperity - but still at risk. Poverty There are some things that are just unacceptable: • 22,000 kids die of preventable diseases every day • 134 million kids have no access to schools • More than ½ billion kids cannot access proper sanitation • 171 million kids are engaged in forced child labour. I could keep quoting the statistics, but you get the picture. In a world of iphones and ipads, laser surgery and double-decker planes, this is totally acceptable. And it ‘butts heads’ with the clear value that Jesus puts on children in the context of his Kingdom. Prosperity But kids are also at risk from prosperity. They may not be resource deficient, but it’s likely they are time deficient. We are giving kids much to live with but, maybe, not as much to live for and we’re seeing epidemics of self-loathing, confusion and violence as a result. I am told (I haven’t seen it myself), that 20
December 2011 www.qb.com.au
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value that Jesus gives them, or are we aiming to get them out of the service as quickly as possible so as not to disturb ‘real worship’? I hope we can answer these questions well. ‘Unless you become like a l-i-t-t-l-e c-h-i-l-d...’ (Matthew 18:2) Tim Hanna Chief Executive Officer Compassion Australia
Snapshots When was the last time you went to a drivein movie? Victoria Point Baptist Church created their own family drive-in movie night in September. Families worked together to create a variety of vehicles to bring to the movies, from Army tanks to convertibles. 55 people enjoyed a fun night watching ‘Horton Hears a Who’ and receiving trophies for ‘Best In Show’, ‘Best Use of Recyclables’ and ‘Vehicle holding most people’. Chicken nuggets; a sausage sizzle and popcorn helped to create the drive-in atmosphere. All children received a medal for their great efforts in making their cars. Margy Reyne & Barbara Lee write: ‘For the past 18 years, Sunnybank District Baptist Church has conducted a Kids’ Club for primary school children in the June/July holidays. During this time, we have seen many children come to
know the Lord for the first time and many grow in their faith. Some return as leaders to share their faith with younger children. It’s important not to underestimate the impact this experience has, because many of these children have continued on in their faith and are now involved in ministry overseas, interstate, in other Brisbane churches and at Sunnybank. ‘Kids’ Club is not only an evangelistic program, it’s a place where children and young people love to come; to be useful and just to be together. It’s a great week of bonding and being committed to a team. There is a culture of working hard together and achieving something worthwhile. But more than that, it’s a place where gifts are identified and young and old have a great opportunity to use those gifts in ministry. We also see the Body of Christ working together to make Kids’ Club happen: the whole congregation contributes in some way - baking cakes for morning tea, taking registrations, helping with craft or, most importantly, by praying. ‘We thank God for the great privilege and great responsibility he has given us to share his Word with children, to equip people for ministry, and for his blessing on all those who have been involved over the years.’ www.qb.com.au December 2011
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QB youth
Young people seeking justice A new generation out to change the world…or just go shopping? As I talk to people about ‘Generation Now’ (Z, millennials, net...whatever!), we just can’t seem to agree. We can all agree that facebook is changing the world, and that it’s just plain weird that many young people would rather stay home to ‘chat’ online, than go out with friends. We can also agree that being able to beat their parents at the mastery of technology is pretty scary. What we can’t agree on is whether this generation is focussed, or citizens of the world. Is this a group of young people so neglected by broken families and a struggling education system that they are doing well just to cope in this ever-changing world? Or is this a generation who are thriving amid unprecedented change? Are they thriving, not only for themselves, but with space left over to care for the needs of others? In this media-saturated world, our young people are more aware than ever of injustice and the deep needs of so many of the people on our planet. I don’t think that in generations past, young people as young as 13 could have articulated an awareness of a drought in Kenya, or the plight of refugees from Burma. I watch with pride and amazement as young people from my church seek to raise public awareness about the complexities of the sex-trade in Cambodia and what ordinary Australians can do about it. I am not the instigator but a guest of 15 year olds, who with one facebook-advertised event, exceed their fundraising target for 40-Hour Famine, three weeks before the event! I watch, with hope, as young adults pay more to ensure their chocolate hasn’t come to them through exploited bean pickers. As friends, parents, youth and church leaders, what is our role in our people’s journey towards justice? Given their enthusiasm (not to mention mastery of technology), should we simply leave them to it? Definitely not! That’s not the way of the Body of Christ. We walk together. I have some suggestions about how we might do this: • Encourage them! Whether successes are big or small. Whether ideas are wacky or wonderful. Encourage each step of learning, discernment and engagement with God’s purposes in delivering justice in our broken world. • Sponsor them! I’m not just talking about the dollars for 40 hours of something, but rather helping them to get access to our churches’ facilities, people and resources so that they can do well. • Teach them! Teach them God’s ultimate plan. That he wants both spiritual and physical transformation in the lives of people and their communities. That we must be about the work of holistic ministry that seeks to ensure people have all they need and the opportunity to come to a saving faith in Jesus. As we, who have the privilege of being in relationship with young people, encourage, sponsor and teach, we can be a part of the church seeing God’s Kingdom come. Karen Haynes Global Interaction Young Adult Consultant, QB Youth Member and fan of fair trade chocolate
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December 2011 www.qb.com.au
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QB women
His perfect timing I feel like I spend a lot of my time waiting: waiting to pick the kids up from school; waiting for the work day to be over; waiting for the washing machine to finish; waiting for my kids to grow out of their current ‘stage’; waiting for holidays; waiting for a phone call or a friend’s email. When we lived in Brisbane I felt we spent all our time waiting at traffic lights (not a problem in little Stanthorpe –although sometimes we do get stuck behind a tractor doing 20kmph on the highway!)
When we are waiting, sometimes we need to ask God to help us see things from his perspective. His planning and his timing are perfect. Although Mary might have wanted to hurry up and get to the birth, Jesus was born at the perfect time, in the perfect town, with a star heralding his arrival just as God had planned at the beginning of time. His perfect timing. His perfect plan.
When my second daughter was due to be born, I was truly ‘at the end of my tether’. A difficult first trimester of morning sickness and fatigue merged into a second and third trimester of We have all had to endure seasons of waiting. Maybe you’ve been sick and had sciatica and sleeplessness. Her due date was to wait to get better. Maybe you’ve been approaching and I had had enough! I decided it hanging out for holidays after a difficult was time for this baby to get out! I visited my year. Maybe you’ve poured out your heart to local pharmacy looking a remedy to speed up !) ck when (way ba h a e someone and are waiting for their response. her arrival. After taking the concoction, we L y bab Sue with Maybe you’ve been praying to God and are waited…and waited…and waited. And at waiting for an answer. Whatever it might be, the appointed time, our daughter came into this times of waiting can be tough. world with incredible speed and determination. His perfect timing. His perfect plan. Jesus’ mother, Mary, endured a time of waiting too. She waited for God’s promise of a miraculous conception. She If you’re waiting for something this week, I pray that God will waited for her fiancé to understand what was going on. She renew your strength. May he lift you up on eagles’ wings to waited for the birth of a son who would become her saviour. I see his perspective, and may you know his love and comfort don’t doubt that, for Mary, there would have been times when as you wait in his arms. all that waiting would have felt endless and exhausting. Merry Christmas! God’s word says that although waiting can be exhausting, he has a special promise for us when we wait on him. Isaiah Sue Peters 40:31 tells us that ‘those who wait upon God get fresh State Director, Qld Baptist Women strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles,they sue@sheis.net.au run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind.’ www.sheis.net.au
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Loving othe
rs better...IN
TENTIONAL
MINISTRY
Queensland Baptists’ Convention 14 - 20 May 2012 in Rockhampton
Program • • • • •
Guest speakers, sessions, electives Fellowship Dinner at Rockhampton Heritage Village Prayer breakfast Queensland Baptists’ Business Day Thanksgiving and Recognition Service including Rockhampton Baptist Tabernacle - 150th Anniversary • Tours around Rockhampton & visit to QBC Shalom • Multicultural Fair (Markets: stalls, food) • Combined Central Qld Church Service • Prayer in Baptist Churches around Qld and special activities for Pastors and their spouses.
Guest speakers We are delighted that two outstanding and highly regarded speakers will present at Convention 2012: Karl Faase is the Senior Pastor at Gymea Baptist Church in Sydney’s southern suburbs. Gymea Baptist is a multi-faceted church with a heart for reaching its community. Karl was the Executive Director of the Australian Arrow Leadership Development Program until December 2010 - a leadership development program for emerging Christian leaders across Australia. Karl also co-founded the Media Project, ‘Jesus. All about life’, a high profile media campaign working in conjunction with local churches that has been conducted in several Australian states. Karl is experienced in media ministry in both radio and television, his radio spots are played across Australia and internationally as are the television series such as “The Mens Series and the recently released ‘The Family Series’. Karl will speak on Tuesday 15 May. Mark McCrindle is one of Australia’s foremost social researchers. He has an international reputation for tracking emerging trends, demographic change and customer shifts. Mark also has a mission-focused Christian faith that enables him to present information to equip church leaders with perspectives about cultural trends in Australia. A regular social commentator for prominent media channels, Mark’s understanding of the key issues facing the emerging generations as well as his engaging communication style, places him in high demand as a commentator in the press, on radio and on television shows such as Sunrise, The Today Show, 7pm Project, A Current Affair, Today Tonight, 2UE and ABC. Mark will be joining us on Wednesday 16 May.
Plan now to attend!
QCCC
Father-son camp
The ultimate church camp
I frequently get asked the question: ‘What can we do to make a great church camp?’ Living on site at QCCC Mapleton, we see a lot of camps come and go and it gives us an insight into what groups are doing, what works, and we become aware of current trends. I think the effort and commitment to organise and run a camp will repay itself tenfold. Last month we held a social day at Mapleton for the staff from the Queensland Baptists’ Head Office. I sat in on a subsequent staff meeting and was encouraged to hear that just a few short hours at Mapleton had refreshed them and built into their relationships. It’s something that seems to happen with every group visiting any of the QCCC sites. People often comment that there is a tangible peace at our sites. I believe it’s important to strike a careful balance between teaching and relaxation at a camp. I know it’s tempting to see the time as an opportunity to fit in as many teaching and devotional sessions as possible. But one of the long-term gains from a camping program lies in the strengthening of relationships which happens when people have down-time, and the opportunity to ‘hang out’ informally. This opportunity is precious in today’s highly-paced and internet-driven world. There are problems with proposing a one-size-fits-all camping program because every group is unique. However, here’s a rough timetable and some comments on a weekend program
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QCCC
Father-daughter camp
that I reckon would provide a significant and congregationbuilding weekend for most groups. Friday Night: It’s very likely that campers will arrive tired so I’d be reluctant to schedule an evening session. Let participants have time to find their rooms and get settled; let the QCCC staff bless them with a prepared meal (rather than fast-food on the way) and leave the evening free for cuppas, chats and board games. Saturday morning: One of the key principles for creating healthy community change is this: ‘Conversation is the way humans have always thought together - in conversation we discover shared meaning.’ As mentioned, I’d encourage a balance between teaching and free time. Some church camps fit as many as seven content sessions into a weekend. While this does provide a lot of information, I often wonder how much sinks in. I’m an advocate for fewer sessions, but for the sessions to set the scene for the weekend. Early on Saturday morning is the ideal time for a session, while campers are fresh. It can set the tone for the weekend and pose questions that will stimulate informal discussion and build relationships. Rest of Saturday: This may be going out on a limb, but I wouldn’t schedule a lot for the rest of the day and into the night. Usually, adults and families will gravitate to shared, fun activities and each of our campsites offers multiple options, both on and off-site: chill out by the pool, take a canoe for a paddle, walk and enjoy the bush, stroll through nearby shops and cafes. All this undergirded by prepared meals which bring everyone together in a relaxed environment that encourages relationship building. Sunday morning: Normally a time where church happens anyway, Sunday morning is a good time for a second corporate gathering. But my suggestion for the remainder of the day may seem unusual. Conventional wisdom is to create a ‘crescendo’ or tie things up neatly before campers make their way home. However, I’ve recently helped out with two father-child camps where there was free time before lunch and no set departure time. Some very significant times of counsel happened in that window. This slow wind-down leaves time for campers to minister to each other and leave when they’re ready. Most weekends our campsites don’t have guests on Sunday night
so the facilities are available for the enjoyment of those who stay on after lunch. It’s a fitting way to end a camp built on proactive conversation and enhancing relationships. Each year QCCC caters to well over 500 individual groups and we see a lot of variety in their programs. Our staff are always available to advise on camping programs to fit your needs and they bring a lot of experience to the process. Feel free to make the most of their knowledge! Andrew Grant Andrew.grant@qccc.com.au Director of Camping - Queensland Conference and Camping Centres
Speaking of church camps, a newly renovated site at QCCC Tamborine is ideal for church retreats and camps. Adult groups and couples will appreciate that there are only three people to a room. The pricing is very sharp, starting at $80 per person for a whole weekend including catering. If you are planning a couples’ retreat or a smaller camp (up to 48 people) this site is affordable and ideal. Contact QCCC Tamborine and ask about Pioneers. (www.qccc.com.au)
QCCC has just hosted very successful father-daughter and father-son camps. As always, these have proved to be profoundly significant weekends, with many fathers providing feedback that the experience has transformed their relationship with their child, and in many cases their spouse. The next father-daughter camp is scheduled for 10-12 February and is already nearly fully booked. We are seeking expressions of interest for both formats and will schedule camps as they fill up. We are also happy to talk to churches about conducting father-child events for fathers in their congregations and we are also starting to look at some mother-child programs. Go to www. fatheringadventures.com to register your interest and watch this space! www.qb.com.au December 2011
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QBC
An opportunity for Christians to speak out positively for love and justice Sir Edmund Burke once said, ‘All that is needed for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing’. As representatives of a good God, Christians have a mandate to be the people who do something in order for good to triumph. This was something the Christian social reformer William Wilberforce took to heart in his battle to abolish slavery in England in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The proposed reform of the poker machine gambling industry is one such opportunity for Christians to speak out, with a positive message of love and justice, against the excesses of an industry that enslaves people through addiction and does significant harm to our fellow human beings. Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s minority government needs the continued support of Tasmanian Independent Andrew Wilkie, who is a politician passionate about making poker machine gambling safer through better consumer protection measures. The reforms will require poker machine players to decide ahead of time how much they are willing to lose on poker machines. This is an historic opportunity for long overdue changes to an industry that ruins lives. Why should Christians mobilise to support these reforms? First there is the impact of poker machines on people’s lives. Australia has the highest number of poker machines per capita in the world. There are 197,000 machines nationally and most are in NSW and Queensland. We have the highest level of high intensity, high loss machines in the world. It’s possible
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to feed $12,000 an hour into modern high intensity machines and lose around $1,500 an hour. The machines are specifically designed to increase playing time and addiction. It’s a very unsafe product for some but because most Australians don’t play poker machines, they are unaware of the risks involved. Australians spend twelve billion dollars a year on pokies. While only 600,000 Australians play poker machines at least weekly, 95,000 of those are problem gamblers who account for 40 per cent of spending on poker machines. This group loses on average up to $21,000 a year while some lose a lot more. Another 95,000 are at risk of becoming problem gamblers, so poker machines are a problem for around a third of regular players. This means a person who plays a poker machine regularly (at least weekly) has more than a 30% chance of becoming addicted. Poker machine addiction affects individuals but it also affects families and communities and disproportionately affects people who are already financially vulnerable. Poker machine venues are most strongly concentrated in poorer suburbs and areas where people can least afford the losses. The social costs of poker machine addiction are high, including relationship breakdown, mental health problems, unemployment, debt, financial hardship, theft and other crime, social isolation and, all too often, suicide. These problems cost around $4.7 billion annually. For every problem gambler, up to 10 more people – wives, husbands, children, wider family, friends and colleagues - suffer. A business model that depends on other people’s
QBC
misery is indefensible on ethical and economic grounds, just as slavery was indefensible in 19th century England.
themselves, and protect a significant number of at risk players from becoming problem gamblers.
Second, the poker machine industry is not happy. In the light of predicted reduction in their revenue they have launched a self interested, misleading, grass roots scare campaign in NSW and Queensland, crying clubs will go broke, that jobs will be lost and communities will fall apart. The industry has $40 million to campaign against these reforms targeting federal and state politicians. If Christians do not mobilise to campaign for the reforms, the opportunity to protect addicts, and those affected by their behaviour, may be lost.
Now is the time for Christians to speak out positively and sprinkle some salt to help preserve our society. All of us can be involved and support the reforms via phone calls, emails and letters to local MP’s offices, and via letters to the editor of local papers and calls to talk back radio.
‘All that is needed for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.’
Third, the reforms are the only viable solution to protect those less able to protect themselves. The limits can be as high or as low as the player likes. No one is telling them how much they can or can’t spend. Once ‘in the zone’, problem gamblers say they can’t make safe choices. In a sober moment, in the cold light of day, players can, and want to, limit their losses. Mandatory pre commitment measures will help problem gamblers who are ready to help
If you wish to be involved, visit the Queensland Baptist Care website www.qbc. com.au where you can find information and links to the Australian Churches Gambling Taskforce which has a range of tools you can use to support these reforms and counter the misleading campaigns of the poker machine industry. Jon Campbell CEO Queensland Baptist Care
QB Gift foundation
Financial house foundations History has shown that Christian ministry is most effective when God’s people give themselves to the Lord, pray fervently, give generously from their income and also make provision for a bequest from their estate when they are ‘called home’. The Queensland Baptist Gift Foundation provides a safe mechanism for processing bequests to local churches and other Baptist ministries. The Foundation’s website contains more helpful information. You will note that you don’t necessarily need to change your existing Will. For many people, giving generously to the Lord’s work during their lifetime and leaving a bequest from their estate is viewed with indifference. This may be due to a lack of understanding about God’s way of handling money and possessions and the debt trap. Jesus was very clear about building up treasures in heaven by being generous towards God with the resources he has entrusted to us. Doing so will bring us blessing and contentment in this life and significant rewards to enjoy for all eternity. So it is of the utmost importance that Christians of all ages take time to check on their ‘financial house foundations’, bearing in mind the following: Don’t ignore God’s Word Most of the symptoms of financial problems that individuals and families face in today’s society - business failures, foreclosures, bankruptcies, out-of-control debt etc. - can be traced to the central problem of ignoring God’s financial principles as recorded in his Word. ‘If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these
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blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God’ (Deuteronomy 28: 1-2). Since the mid-1950s, many people have been enticed into a get-rich-quick mentality by using easily obtainable credit to purchase ‘what I want, when I want it’. Now, a generation later, we are carrying the burden of overwhelming, excessive debt due to the seeds of moderate debt sown in previous generations. It was Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881), Earl of Beaconsfield, who said in an address before the British House of Commons on May 1, 1865, ‘What we do and allow in moderation, our children will allow and do in excess’. What better words can describe the primary cause of the downward financial spiral in our society? Don’t forget to pray If we find ourselves in financial bondage, there is a way through. God requires us to humble ourselves before him, seek his forgiveness, ask him to divest us of any pride and stubbornness and to lead us to those who can help us regain financial freedom. This could involve selling our home and scaling back, but we should always remember it all belongs to the Lord and we are but managers. ‘Everything in the heavens and the earth is yours O Lord and we adore you as being in control of everything’ (1 Chronicles 29:11). Don’t neglect preventive measures The Bible clearly indicates that borrowing is not God’s best for his people and should never be used as a ‘routine’ part of financial planning as ‘The borrower is slave to the lender’
QB Gift foundation
(Proverbs 22:7). However, in today’s financial system, it would seem permissible to borrow for a home, a business or a vocation but only if the following criteria are met: • The item purchased is an asset with the potential to appreciate or to produce an income • The value of the item exceeds the amount owed against it by a prudent margin • The debt is not so large that repayment puts undue strain on the overall budget, including giving generously to the work of the Lord. In today’s society, spending and borrowing are promoted and saving is discouraged. It is more in keeping with God’s principles to save for future needs than to borrow or use credit. ‘The wise man saves for the future but the foolish man spends whatever he gets’ (Proverbs 21:20). Patience and consistency, rather than quick decisions and instant success are the ways to financial security. One of the best disciplines we, as parents, can teach our children, is to work to reach a goal. ‘Steady plodding brings prosperity, hasty speculation brings poverty’ (Proverbs 21:5). We should all learn how to develop and live on a balanced budget. If we don’t, finances can get out of control and the
RESOURCE GOD’S WORK USING
THE GIFT FOUNDATION
- A gift in a will - A letter to beneficiaries - A gift from a Family Trust www.qb.com.au/giftfoundation Telephone: 0400 795 302 Hope through Christ
true financial freedom, that God intends for his children, is placed in jeopardy. ‘Poverty and shame will come to him who neglects discipline, but whoever heeds correction is honoured’ (Proverbs 13:18). If, as Christians, we all truly lived by sound biblical financial principles, we would not only be lights to show the way to financial freedom for our friends and acquaintances, but our children will grow up knowing God’s principles and how they should be used. They, in turn, will pass on to their children what they were taught. With consistent teaching and discipline, it would take less than a generation to break Christians’ financial bondage and free them to serve the Lord and to fund his Kingdom work. For further confidential guidance on any of the issues raised in this article, please contact the writer on 0400 795 302. Trevor Owens Co-ordinator Queensland Baptist Gift Foundation www.qb.com.au/giftfoundation
Global Interaction
Introducing Karen Haynes Hi, I’m Karen Haynes and I’m the newly appointed Young Adult Consultant for Global Interaction in Queensland. A few things about me: • I’m a Queenslander. I’ve lived in Brisbane since I was five and you’ll never catch me wearing blue on a State of Origin game day • I love my church. I’m employed at NorthEast Baptist as the Youth and Young Adults’ Pastor, and have been there since 2008. In fact, I love it so much I live next door, so I’m never too far away from our people and the local coffee shops • I’m a geek. One of my favourite weekend (and occasionally midweek) activities is drinking good coffee in a coffee shop, reading the newspaper, and watching people negotiate the day. I studied Business (Accounting) at QUT, I like SciFi TV shows and I find politics incredibly interesting. For those who like to categorise: I use an iMac, an old MacBook and a not so old netbook (although I think my housemate may be ‘borrowing’ it) • I have a growing view of mission. From growing up at Keperra Baptist, with former missionaries in the congregation, to the Unearthed events run by Global Interaction and my own church’s adoption of Cambodia’s Khmer people, my exposure and love of this work continues to grow.
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In just a few weeks I’ve learned many things: • Cross-cultural workers who are prepared to learn language, use their skills and develop relationships with people make a massive difference in God’s kingdom • It takes remarkable leadership and organisational skills to provide ministry opportunities so that cross-cultural workers can share the good news of Jesus with the least reached in our world. Thanks to God’s provision, Global Interaction has many talented people doing this incredible work • Young people have a growing desire to see God’s justice in this world. I have no doubt that seeing the good news go to the least reached people in our world is just what God wants us to be doing • My role is to help young adults engage in cross-cultural mission, particularly to those people in the world who have had the least opportunity so far to hear about Jesus. I can’t imagine a greater privilege, and I can’t wait to see what God is going to do • I’m all set to go to Melbourne for a week next year for Context Training. My fellow Malyon students assure me it is a great course, so I’m looking forward to it.
In my spare time…Earlier this year I was appointed to the Advertising Standards Board. This board is made up of 20 everyday Australians who assess advertising complaints on behalf of the self-regulated advertising industry. So far it has been a great opportunity to talk and share with people from such varied walks of life in our country. www.adstandards.com.au
Global Interaction
Context Training
Presenters will include:
Want to visit Melbourne? Want to take five days out to explore cross-cultural mission?
Global Consultant Walt White, Queensland’s own Morris Lee and John Peterson, and plenty of others who’ve done the hard yards of mission.
A five day workshop will cover issues like: • Theology of contextualisation • Creating indigenous communities of faith • Sharing faith with unreached people in Muslim and other religious contexts • Ethical, strategic and practical issues in global mission • Community development grounded in sound theology and in local culture • Exploring ways contextualisation relates to your own church community.
13-17 February 2012 (before university starts back) At the Global Interaction office in Hawthorn 9am-5pm everyday Course cost - $135 including lunch each day Accreditation For accreditation (Contextual Mission DM 119/219.15) Contact Malyon College For more information Contact Carol Langsford 03 9819 4944 or clangsford@globalinteraction.org.au
Together, we can make a difference. A Christian family company Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast 24 hrs a day we’ll come to you. Rowan Steer Executive Director 0417 738 501
Max Wheat Managing Director 0416 226 686
1800 671 310
www.integrityfunerals.com.au www.qb.com.au December 2011
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irthdAy?
h Mani and
BWAA
rously to Baptist World Aid’s Christmas Appeal today. See the envelope n this edition, phone 1300 789 991 or visit www.baptistworldaid.org.au l you, whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine me.” Matthew 25:40
In India, thirteen years ago, Kamala’s husband was brutally murdered and Kamala was left with no way to support her four children and her mother. In the years that followed, Kamala became a Christian and her new hope helped to overcome her grief, but the everyday stress of how they would ‘get by’ continued to be almost unbearable.
8/11/11 3:02 PM
Desperately searching for a way to support her family, Kamala decided to move from her home in India to Nepal where she knew her husband owned land. But it was all in vain. Kamala and her family could not find the land nor any trace of her husband’s family, and eventually they settled on a very remote patch of hillside and began to eke out a living from growing crops. With no citizenship, no agricultural skills, no legal rights to the land and no other Christians in her village, life was very hard for Kamala. Each day was an endless cycle of hard work and worry and she began to fall into a state of depression, all but ready to pack up her things and go back to India where, at least, she knew her neighbours. It was in these days of despair that a Christian field worker from Baptist World Aid Australia’s partner, International Nepal Fellowship (INF), came and met with Kamala. INF had begun working with the local village to help them improve their situation. The field worker came to see Kamala, knowing she was very poor and an outsider in the village, to invite her to be part of INF’s community development activities. This contact with another Christian was like a lifeline for Kamala. Supported in her faith, and now joining in one of the community’s savings groups, she felt she had been given the strength to stay in Nepal and answer God’s call to minister to the people in her community.
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Kamala enthusiastically took part in the training and other activities of her savings group and soon they voted for her to become their group facilitator. Although she had been accepted by the community, Kamala was still desperately poor. So, together with the INF staff, her new friends suggested that Kamala begin raising goats for extra income. The group gave her a 5,000 Rupee (AU$65) loan from their collective savings to purchase some goats, and with training from INF about how to keep them healthy, she has gained new skills to provide for her family. Kamala also began to share her faith. She said that spending time with the INF staff ‘inspired me to help the people of my community and gave me courage to live out my ministry’. And her witness has been incredibly fruitful. In a village which previously had no believers, there is now a group of at least thirty Christians and they have just finished construction on their first church building. To see Kamala now, it is difficult to believe the immense trauma and difficultly of the last 13 years. She has food on the table, she is accepted and secure in her community—which is going from strength to strength with the help of INF—and most of all, she is excited to see faith in Jesus transforming lives among her neighbours. Please give generously this Christmas to the work of Baptist World Aid Australia’s Christian partners and be a part of more stories like Kamala’s. Use the envelope included in this issue of The qb, visit www.baptistworldaid.org.au or phone 1300 789 991.
New pastors meet
Support for new pastors Queensland Baptists is blessed by the steady flow of ministers being called to serve in our churches. Allison Hall who is on the pastoral team at Gladstone Baptist Church said, ‘I was thrilled to be invited to the New Pastors’ Retreat. It was wonderful to be accepted and to feel included. It is very encouraging to see the high calibre of young men and women answering God’s call. I hope I have an opportunity to keep in touch with how they progress in the years to come.’ In 2010, the Regional Consultancy Team piloted a conference for our newest Queensland Baptist pastors. The pilot was a success, so an expanded conference was held from 23-25 October at the retreat house, QCCC Brookfield, which proved to be a great venue. The aim of the conference, sponsored by Queensland Baptists, was to encourage and equip new pastors for the challenging role they have accepted. The conference included input sessions from our Regional Consultants and General Superintendent as well as opportunities for the pastors to raise issues of interest and concern. There was also plenty of time for participants to build relationships with their peers as well as their Regional Consultants. This year’s group included pastors from urban and rural churches, two pastors who conduct their services in languages other than English, and two female pastors. Although it was
such a diverse group, there was a tremendous unity because each person serves the same Lord passionately and often at considerable personal cost. It was great to hear stories from the participants about how God led them to this point in their ministries. Theo Salahor (Margate Baptist Church), said, ‘It was an enriching time, as we shared the highs and lows of what real ministry means. Thank you to the guys for sharing their intimate thoughts; frustrations, but most of all, the love of God’. Robert Howells (Leichhardt Baptist Church), said, ‘One of the things I enjoyed most (at the retreat) was talking with other newish pastors and realising that we are all facing the same problems. It is easy to feel alone in ministry, but these few days were a reminder that we are not just “un-alone”, that God is doing some great things in our lives. These two days were well worth experiencing.’ Planning is about to start for another conference for our newest pastors next year, so please continue to pray that God will raise up men and women to serve as pastors in our churches for many years to come. Also, please be committed to praying for, and encouraging, those new pastors already given to us by God.
Pictured top L to bottom R: (1) James Hill (Southport Baptist) Emil Rahimov (Regional Consultant, Multicultural), Alvin Tam, Jean-Claude Manirakiza, Brendan Devine (Reedy Creek Baptist). (2) Stephen Ball (Regional Consultant), Jean-Claude Manirakiza (Pastor, All Nations Revival Church) and Alvin Tam (Sunnybank, Chinese Pastor)
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Persecution brief
Please pray Kazakhstan – Restrictive new religion law approved In October, Kazakhstan president Nursultan Nazarbayev signed two new laws imposing severe restrictions on freedom of religion or belief. Both laws – adopted with what one observer called ‘unprecedented speed’ – were expected to come into force on 24 October. The new religion law requires all religious groups to re-register with the state under a complex four-tier system. Changes have also been made to another law to widen the range of violations punishable under the religion law. The legislation is being presented by the government as necessary to protect the state from Islamic extremism, but will impact all religions. Under the new rules, any new place of worship would require the approval of national and local authorities, and the distribution of religious literature would be restricted. Egypt – Peaceful protest by Christians turns deadly Thousands of Egyptian Christians had taken to the streets in October to protest against the torching of a church when they came under brutal attack from security forces, Islamists and violent thugs. Video footage shows military vehicles charging at Christians in Maspero Square, Cairo. The protestors were also shot at, beaten and dragged through the streets; 25 people were confirmed dead and hundreds injured. Although Muslims were among the aggressors, some were also reportedly present to defend the Christians from the security forces and to protest against the military’s continued hold on power. Calls were made for the resignation of the military council. The following week, generals from the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces denied firing on Christian protestors and running over them in armoured vehicles. Instead, they blamed the Christians for the violence, accusing them of ‘savage’ attacks on the military. But autopsies and forensic reports refute the military’s version of events; a third of the victims – most of whom were Christians – were killed by being run over by armoured vehicles, while two-thirds were shot with live ammunition.
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Indonesia – Pressure leads to large-scale church closures More than 50 churches have been shut down or demolished by the authorities in Indonesia since the start of 2010, often following pressure from Islamist groups, according to the Jakarta Christian Communication Forum (FKKJ). The official reasons given for the closures were that the buildings were being used as places of worship without a licence or without the minimum required number of 60 worshippers. But, the FKKJ asks, ‘Why is this only applied to the Christian churches and not other places of worship?’ In most cases, measures were taken following protests from radical Muslim groups. As well as suffering discrimination by the authorities, churches in Indonesia are often attacked by extremists. In September, a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a church in Keputon, Solo, Central Java, as people were leaving the service; 28 were injured in the blast. Iran – Supreme Leader to rule on Pastor Nadarkhani’s case The court that is reconsidering the case of condemned pastor Youcef Nadarkhani has referred it to the country’s Supreme Leader, the ultimate political and religious authority in Iran. Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei will now determine the outcome for Nadarkhani, who has been appealing against his death sentence for apostasy which was formally issued last November. The referral is likely further to delay the issuing of a written verdict, which had been expected within a week of Nadarkhani’s latest court hearing in Rasht at the end of September. His lawyer, Mohammad Ali Dadkhah, said that it was unusual for a judicial case to be forwarded to the Supreme Leader and that he hoped the death sentence would be overturned in keeping with Iran’s international agreements. SOURCE: BARNABAS FUND
It has been both a challenge and a delight to try to depict the Christian Christmas story in different ways each year. There have been carpentry shops and animal nurseries; Nativity scenes and Christmas tree forests; fairy lights and flowers; boats and bands; photography and fabulous food. But central to it all has always been that ‘little bloke in the manger’, who grew to be the Saviour of the world. There are also some other characters in this story who never cease to capture my attention. In my childhood memories, I see the tall silhouettes of camels and men, and recall the wonder of the glittering, exotic gifts which they laid at the feet of Jesus. Now, with an adult’s eyes, I see their quest as one which is common to all mankind, down though the ages...seeking. Yes, we in twenty -first century Australia are also seeking; searching for ways to live a life of meaning. Our homes are beyond comfortable and our disposable wealth frees us to pursue our interests and dreams, yet we, as a society, report a growing sense of alienation and brokenness in our communities and key relationships. The children with whom we work, in our churches and schools, are not immune to this condition of our time. Like us, they seek. They seek to know that they are significant and that their lives matter. They long to be given opportunities to contribute to their world in real and valued ways. Most of all, they are hungry to experience trustworthy relationships and to be loved unconditionally. In our own small and particular ways, this is the ‘gift’ that we, as people of faith, give to our children, as we minister to them through our Kids’ Clubs and Sunday Schools; as we prepare our R.E. lessons and raise funds for Chaplaincy; as we mentor through KIDS HOPE or play ‘God songs’ in Mainly Music; or even as we set up the Nativity Scene again this Christmas. In these and other diverse ways we walk with our precious children, for a short time each week, along the pathways of their lives. Significance, belonging and love are the ‘treasures of life’ that our children long for, and these are the ‘gifts’ that the wise men received 2000 years ago as they gazed upon ‘the little bloke in the manger’: Jesus, the treasure that every human heart seeks. Happy Christmas everyone! Wendy Jarrott-Smith - QB Board member and Qld Program Development Associate for the World Vision KIDS HOPE Program
Seeking
Six years ago I decided that our little town, Gatton, needed a Christmas festival; a chance to experience something more than the hustle and bustle of a ‘catalogue Christmas’, where we spend more and more money (which we don’t have) on more and more stuff (which we don’t need). Don’t get me wrong. I love Christmas; but I really wanted to give our community an opportunity to experience more than the plastic, tawdriness which often revolves around the big, happy ‘fella’ in the red suit. Instead, to give them a chance to celebrate the wonders of that very first Christmas in Bethlehem, 2000 years ago, I especially wanted children in our community to hear and see the true story of Christmas, possibly for the first time. This would be a big task for our core group of 30, but shared vision and willing hearts make the burdens light and the company fun, so we started our journey to produce ‘Christmas on William Street’.
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ITA
I’m a
Christian! ‘Travelling on the bus today I couldn’t stop crying - the sky is bluer, the grass is greener.’ This was Janet’s description of her conversion. She now saw the world with eyes renewed by the creator God who took on himself the penalty for her sin. Janet was in Brisbane on a working holiday visa and living with Kim and Ashley Hood in their international community house in West End. As a Korean Buddhist, she was intrigued by the generous acts of kindness and selfless choices that she witnessed. One night she stayed awake reading the Bible to discover for herself the foundations of this faith she saw lived out around her. During this night of private quest, Janet surrendered her life to Christ. This first day of her Christian life began as she walked out of her bedroom and announced: ‘I’m a Christian!’ Janet was discipled into a deeper walk with Jesus by a network of folk from this community house, from English Corner ministry which teaches English through parables and discussion, through studying TESOL and the community of Windsor Road Baptist church (WRBC). She was baptised at New Hope Brisbane. Prior to her return to Korea, the WRBC Thrift shop community put on a fashion parade. With the funds raised, Janet was able to join in ministry on the Doulos from Sydney to Perth. She returned to Korea as a keen evangelist. Over the three years since her return, she has run English Corner in Seoul. Next year she is going to
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Africa with SIM to serve Jesus. The seed sown has now become a harvester. Her Buddhist family continues to watch Janet’s changed life with intrigue. Pray for many internationals like her who return home to bring Jesus and his life transforming power into their Buddhist families. ‘Pray the Lord of the harvest to send harvesters…’ (Matthew 9:38). It can start with hospitality in homes and churches in Queensland. The team at Intercultural Training Australia walks alongside folks and churches to release them into ESL ministry. They have resources, syllabus and lesson plans for communicating Christ in the classroom. They conduct TEAM Days as professional development, short courses in TESOL training for volunteers and short term missions, and accredited TESOL training. To get involved in what God is doing in this crosscultural ministry or to find out more about available resources, training or upskilling, www.itateach.com and www.yourenglishcorner.net Juanita Anderson, Intercultural Training Australia
Christmas thought
The joy of Christmas One of the key concepts spoken about in all the community around Christmas is ‘Joy’. It’s on cards, in shops, on signs and in carols. Joy is referred to everywhere but often we don’t experience joy in our lives in general, and sometimes, not even at Christmas. We are all looking for joy but it’s hard to find. Joy is actually illusive, and in seeking after joy we often get distracted which causes us to miss experiencing joy altogether.
to do what you want him or her to do. Once you get past this stage, you think it will get easier and then they become teenagers; and it changes again. At times, being a parent can be incredibly difficult and very disappointing, leaving you feeling like a complete failure. But being a parent brings great joy. If you are a parent, what will bring you the most joy this Christmas? Enjoying it with your children and grandchildren; they will bring great joy.
The first distraction is chasing after pleasure. C.S Lewis wrote: ‘Joy is never in our power and pleasure often is’ and because pleasure is in our power, we can chase after it, thinking that it’s going to give us joy. Pleasure is always short term; it doesn’t last. It’s there for a moment but it’s fleeting and illusive. Gifts and celebrations of the Christmas season can bring lots of short term pleasure, but be devoid of real joy.
The Bible says something very odd about the joy of Jesus’ life. The book of Hebrews tells us ‘that for the joy set before him Jesus endured the cross’ (12:2). Jesus came to earth at the first Christmas and his birth brought great joy to many. His life was one of following God’s plan for him and this culminated in a painful and, from a human perspective, humiliating death on a cross. Yet this is the place of joy.
The second distraction is that we want to minimise pain. It is helpful to recognise that pain and joy are not opposites – pleasure and pain are opposites, but pain and joy are not. We falsely believe that joy is found by grasping pleasure and avoiding pain. Everybody who is a parent knows that you can experience joy in the midst of difficulty and pain. Think about what it is to be a parent. If you’ve been parents for a while, go back to when you were a young couple, enjoying life together. Then you decide to have a baby and it changes your life completely. People talk about the joy of childbirth, and yet it’s a painful process. Then there are the demanding toddler years when it’s all so difficult and you cannot get your toddler
Jesus knew that by obeying his father’s will, his death would bring new life to all humanity and that knowledge brought him joy. And it can be our joy today! I trust that you will experience joy this Christmas; not the shallow joy of the pleasure of a good time, but rather the joy of knowing that whatever you face, Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection allows you to know deep, abiding peace and joy. Karl Faase Senior Pastor, Gymea Baptist Church & Guest Speaker at QB Convention 2012 (in Rockhampton)
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Hope
Do you believe in a happy ending? Once upon a time, a few months ago, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) published an article on young adult literature. Not the sort of thing you’d expect from the WSJ and certainly not the sort of thing you’d expect to generate an avalanche of protest. The writer, Meghan Cox Gurdon, had looked at the current crop of Young Adult (YA) books lining the shelves of bookstores and libraries around the US and called them ‘depraved’. Pathologically and hideously distorted portrayals of life are, according to Gurdon, rife in today’s books for teens. You can read the original article Darkness Too Visible by googling YA and WSJ. What’s extraordinary about the poll accompanying this article is that nearly 90% of respondents think Gurdon is wrong - they contend dark themes like incest, drug use, stomach-churning violence, suicide and self-mutilation are actually helpful to young readers. The best part of a decade ago, I remember reading a similar article in the Courier Mail, Brisbane’s daily newspaper. Someone had commissioned a survey of YA literature published in Australia in the previous fifteen years. As I recall, the survey revealed that in around 85% of books, the protagonist had either committed suicide or had thought seriously about it. The article finished with a comment by a psychiatrist that it really wasn’t surprising that Australia had the highest teen suicide rate in the world. I happen to believe that hope is one of the greatest gifts we can give another person. Hope is part of the indivisible trio (faith, hope and charity) but it’s also something that a number of Australian writers, including some very influential ones, don’t believe in including in their books. They contend that it’s wrong to give kids false comfort by suggesting there is hope in their situations. And so the majority of books out at the moment don’t have a happy ending.
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Hope
Sometime in the last two or three years, YA books - as a general rule - became irremediably dark. The withdrawing of light and hope is a process that has been going on for many years, but a couple of years back, the slow slide to the abyss became a freefall. Now, this is a problem for me because I’m committed to a belief in a happy ending; both in life and in literature, and as a writer, a reader and a counsellor. (As a counsellor, I often say: ‘Answer honestly from your heart and not your head: do you believe in a happy ending?’ So many Christians don’t that my first step is to pray to restore their belief in a God who sits on the throne and says: ‘Behold, I make all things new.’) I don’t like reading literature that paints life as hopeless. I agree with JRR Tolkien who considered the essential quality of a fairytale or a fantasy to be hope and consolation. But many people like me find that literature for people like us - including teens - is an increasingly rare commodity. There’s no point in complaining, it’s too often counter-productive. But I have a very powerful weapon: my wallet. I can exercise my democratic right to buy what I like. In doing so, I let publishers know that there is a market for writing that looks to the light and not the darkness. And for parents and grandparents searching, like Meghan Cox Gurdon was, for the right book, here are some recommendations from the Christian Schools Library Service: • Heather Vogel Frederick – Mother Daughter Book Club series (school yrs 7 to 9) • Ally Carter (an awesome spy girl series – really clean but very engaging) • Tristan Bancks (Aussie author – middle school boys books) • Laurie Halse Anderson (has a great trilogy on slaves in US civil war • Paul Adam (Max Cassidy books) • Steampunk books by Richard Harland (Liberator, Worldshaker) • DJ Stutley (Aussie Christian author – fantastic general market mystery/crime series) • Rosanne Hawke (Aussie Christian author – wonderful books, often with multi-cultural focus) • Anne Hamilton (Aussie Christian author – award-winning fantasy) • Rosie Boom (Kiwi Christian author – ‘pioneering’ days in NZ) • Andrew Lansdown (Aussie Christian author and poet) Anne Hamilton, www.singingsilence.com
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B O O K S . DV D S . M U S I C
BOOK: The twelve words of Christmas Louie Giglio WORD’s Price: $14.95
DVD: ‘The case for Christ’ Lee Strobel WORD’s Price: $7.95 Is there credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God? Lee Strobel sets out on a journey to find out what - if any - evidence exists to prove that Jesus really is the Son of God. Seeking out experts from across many fields, Strobel doesn’t shrink from asking the tough questions: Does evidence exist for Jesus outside of the Bible? How reliable is the New Testament? As a journalist, former legal editor of the Chicago Times, and a skeptic for many years, Lee produces a book that is logical and well structured, but is also the very personal journey of a man who still struggles with unanswered questions. Whether you have been a believer for many years, or you are just starting on your faith journey, you are sure to enjoy this book.
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It’s rare to find a person in Christian circles who doesn’t recognise the name, ‘Louie Giglio’. With his awe-inspiring DVD, ‘Indescribable’, Louie burst onto the scene with an enthusiasm and a passion that captivated and inspired his audience. With Christmas just around the corner, Louie has released a new DVD, ‘The twelve words of Christmas’. He doesn’t try to re-invent the wheel in his message, rather he emphasises that through the miracle of Christmas, we are never too far from the love of God, that even amid the chaos of our lives, God is at work and he promises to bring us through. This is a wonderful message that is delivered with Louie’s characteristic zeal. However, don’t watch this DVD expecting it to impact you in the same way as his ‘Indescribable’ message. While his passion is evident, the message is more subtle. We all know the Christmas story, but sometimes it’s good to take time out to remember what it’s all about; that one tiny baby changed the course of history forever. Watch this DVD with your family, a small group from church or share it with your neighbours.
B O O K S . DV D S . M U S I C
DVD: ‘The book that changed the world’ Heritage HM Online Price: $29.95
Available at all Christian retail outlets or online at http://store.movieschangepeople.com
To celebrate the significant anniversary of the release of the King James Bible, this movie tells the extraordinary story behind, arguably, the most important manuscript in history. Acclaimed actor John RhysDavies visits landmarks, explains relics and leads us back into a darker time to discover this fascinating tale of saints and sinners, power and passion, as the greatest translation of Holy Scripture emerges into a world and culture that would never be quite the same again.
Competition: Win a copy of this outstanding DVD. Be first to email qb@qb.com.au and tell us when the King James Bible was first published.
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B O O K S . DV D S . M U S I C MUSIC: ‘Breath of life’ A new album of historic hymns for contemporary Christians Emu Music has compiled a collection of classic hymn words (from writers such as Luther, Watts, Wesley and Newton) with original new music. Each song presents a great way to engage with the doctrinal and poetic depth of some of Christianity’s greats, combining ancient truth with contemporary melodies. Philip Percival, Executive Director Emu Music, comments, ‘In recent years, contemporary churches have been rediscovering the rich material in traditional hymns. And while many original hymn tunes are as fine today as when they were first sung, others will be harder to use in modern congregational singing. We were keen, therefore, to throw in some fresh ideas to keep the singing of traditional hymns alive in the church’. Talented songwriters contributing to the contemporary new tunes include Luke & Vicki Woodhouse, Trevor Hodge, Richard Simpkin, Nicky Chiswell, Rob Smith and Philip Percival. Available at all good Christian bookstores or direct from Emu Music www.emumusic.com.au
MUSIC: ‘The Bethlehem Road’ The songs of Rob Smith 1990-2000 The Bethlehem Road brings together many of the songs that appeared on the four Bethlehem albums released by Windwood Studios between 1990 and 1998 – Our God reigns (1990), Behold your king (1992), Christ for us (1995) and Come to the waters (1998). Many of these songs live on and are still being sung or discovered – even though most of the original albums are now out of print. Rob Smith shares that the purpose of this compilation ‘is not only to preserve a record of these songs, but to enable God’s people – particularly those whose original cassettes have long since perished – to access them, enjoy them and continue to make use of them. It’s my prayer that they might keep doing the job they were designed to do – that of providing the churches of Jesus Christ with songs that proclaim God’s word and vehicles for singing his praises.’ Available at all good Christian bookstores or direct from Emu Music www.emumusic.com.au
All profits support the work of missions Providing Christ like care for grieving families Personalised care & support Prepaid Funeral Planning
24Hr 7 Day Service Servicing Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
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Fun zone
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Sudoku Challenge Sudoku puzzle provided by www.sudokuoftheday.com visit them and get a new Sudoku every day!
Sudoku rules: Each row, column and block must contain one of the numbers from 1 to 9. No number may appear more than once in any row, column or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid, the puzzle is solved. Sukodu solutions to: QB Magazine, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053 Two correct entries will be chosen to receive a $30 Word bookstore voucher. Don’t forget to include your full name and contact details. Name Address
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Hey Kids, Look for Lucy!
Little Lucy is hiding somewhere in this issue. Tell us where she is hiding and snail mail your answer, or email qb@qb.com.au Congratulations! To all those who found Little Lucy hiding on the Contents page, page 3 (October issue).
Creative Captions Win a Word Bookstores Gift Voucher Anne Grant organised craft sessions for the girls at a recent QCCC Father-daughter camp. See if you can spot the anomaly in this photo and send your creative caption via email to admin@qb.com.au or post to PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Q 4053. Don’t forget, if you have a great photo that needs a clever caption, send it to admin@qb.com.au or snail mail.
Last issue
‘Oh no! It’s a PURR-fect CAT-astrophe!’ Congratulations to Jane Turner!
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Classifieds POSITIONS VACANT
Accommodation
Youth Pastor Part time (2 days/wk)*
CALOUNDRA: Seafarer Chase luxury 2 b/r holiday apartments on the Sunshine Coast. Ocean views, heated pool, BBQ, security parking, close to beaches, shops, cinema and bowling club. Contact Marianne/Martin Burton, phone/fax 5491 7155.
Murgon District Baptist Church is seeking an appropriately mature youth pastor who is passionate and gifted in getting alongside teenagers and leading them into a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ.
CALOUNDRA - GOLDEN BEACH: Highset three bedroom holiday home. Weekends or weekly. Pets OK. Close to beach. Phone 0402 077 822 or lizottaway15@gmail.com
*The position is part time but an opportunity for a further 2-3 days is possible in a SU chaplaincy role in the local High School. Murgon is three hours N/W Brisbane with many opportunities for spouse employment in health, social work, education etc. Murgon is 6 km from the Aboriginal community of Cherbourg. The person: • You will have a vibrant relationship with Jesus • You will be committed to prayer and the Word • You will be comfortable working within a multicultural environment (ie indigenous youth) • Will be eligible for registration with Queensland Baptists The role: • Oversee and grow the existing youth group (currently ages 12-15) • Pursue outreach opportunities in the community • Be available as the “town youth pastor” • Involvement in Baptist church services 1-2 Sundays a month (average) • The Youth Pastor role would serve youth from other churches as well as reach out to the non-churched. (The youth group has young people from several other churches.)
CALOUNDRA - KINGS BEACH: Holiday unit, modern, pool, 100m from Kings Beach. From $390 pw. Phone Ray 0427 990 161. MITCHELTON: Christian girl to share townhouse at Mitchelton with 2nd year uni student. Walk to Gaythorne station. Phone Cherily 0431 393 485. MT TAMBORINE: Lovely Garden Flat self contained accommodation/board possible suit Christian couple or single Phone 5545 0709.
FOR HIRE Large Auditorium: Seats 290. Qld Baptists Centre at Gaythorne. Phone Claire or Emily 07 3354 5600 for more information or visit www.qb.com.au – venue hire.
FOR SALE CHILD CAR SEAT: Safe and sound, sleep and recline, grey, suits from birth to 28kg. $195 Phone 0411 748 817 WEDDING DRESS: Size 10 – 12, including veil and white shoes. Full laced back, with diamontees on dress, medium length train. Fully dry cleaned. Made by the bridal factory in Sydney. Bought for $3,800 sell for $2,000. Phone 0411 748 817.
GENERAL
Barnabas Fund Australia Administrator (Full-time) Based in Shailer Park Office
BOOKKEEPING: Brisbane based MYOB Approved Bookkeeper and registered BAS agent, member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. Servicing greater Brisbane area. Andrew Richardson 0407 614 547.
We are looking for a committed Christian who has good office, communication and computer skills, an eye for details and a concern for the persecuted Church. For more information Ph 3806 1076 or ianw@barnabasfund.org
FULL-TIME PASTOR SANDY BAY BAPTIST CHURCH Sandy Bay Baptist Church (Hobart, Tasmania) is seeking to call a full-time Pastor. Full job details, contacts and application information can be viewed at http://sbbc.net/pastorsearch
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RELAX
knowing your money is safe and working hard for you, and at the same time, helping to support much needed local projects.
Simply deposit your savings and investments in BAPLink, the investment fund of the Baptist Union of Queensland. BAPLink was set up to give people like you the opportunity to enjoy healthy interest returns, while creating a pool of funds from which Baptist churches and ministries can borrow to grow and serve their local communities. BAPLink provides: • Competitive interest rates • Security of a guaranteed return on your investment • Friendly service • No account keeping fees on savings and investment accounts
Facilities available: • Internet banking (for churches only) • Savings accounts at call and term • Partnership accounts - a new way of giving • Electronic transfers for both deposits and withdrawals • Deposit facilities through the Westpac Bank • Cheque accounts for churches • Loans to churches and ministers Join the growing number of ‘Baptists making a difference’ by depositing with BAPLink.
For more information or an application form contact BAPLink: Building 1, Level 2, 53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne PO Box 6166, Mitchelton 4053 Phone: 3354 5611 or 1800 650 062 (outside Brisbane) Fax: 3354 5605 baplink@qb.com.au www.qb.com.au/baplink