QB Magazine Feb/Mar 2017

The voice of Queensland Baptists February/March 2017

It is your story Finding safety through the storm CRI: what’s happening?

Print post approved ISSN: 100003837 The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890.

This series Vol 15 Issue 1.

www.qb.org.au

QB MINISTRIES 27

Lending exceeds $100 million (Baplink)

28

It is your story (QB Women)

30

It’s a big call (QB Kids & Their Families)

31

Kingdom work recognised (Malyon)

32

‘They must be well-heeled’ (QCCC)

34

Pastoring in the ‘good old days’!

(QB archives)

36

27 32

Live the life you love (Carinity)

QB PARTNERS 38

The challenges facing cross-cultural ministry in 2017 (Global Interaction)

39

Finding safety through the storm (BWAA)

ARTICLES 37

Making the rest of your life the best of your life

40

44

31

Daylight eventually comes

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Christian religious instruction what’s happening?

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017 ISSUE 04 07 08 10

Comment: David Loder QB Prayer Focus 2017 Knowing God Series Speaking out: John Sweetman

Our cover: In this issue we launch the QB Board theme for this year. Continuing with our overall theme of Knowing God, this year we will focus on Discipleship through evangelism: make disciples by going and baptizing.

MTQ leader, Colin Stoodley, contributes the first article in our year-long series titled Evangelism through church planting.

12 15 22 44

Baptisms Around the regions Milestones Persecution brief

45 Fun zone 46 Reviews 47 Classifieds

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COMMENT

ABUNDANT LIVING

Passing along the beach of Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew net-fishing. Fishing was their regular work.

Jesus said to them, ‘Come with me. I’ll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I’ll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass.’ They didn’t ask questions.

They dropped their nets and followed (Mark 1:16-18. The Message).

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Happy New Year! I trust and pray that this year will be fulfilling for you and your church as, yoked together with Jesus, you navigate life’s circumstances.

What might be different at the end of 2017 compared to its beginning?

Other than God, no one knows what the year holds for us—personally, as a church, movement, community or world. One serious question I want to ask is this: ‘Who might be members of God’s family at the end of this year who are not part of His family just

COMMENT said here, yet the simple fact remains that the Kingdom has to do with the reign or rule of God. It is, in essence, what God has say or control over.

We are used to a monarchy that is more ceremonial in focus than ruling.

We dare not translate that spiritually.

God is not interested in being a figurehead in our lives, only involved in the ceremonial passages of life such as births, weddings and funerals, but rather demands a genuine lordship over all our affairs … over us! Whilst books have been written about this, let me highlight two points.

First, if God’s Kingdom is going to be evident in our lives, then our kingdom needs to be dismantled. It is what God demands, not my desires and wishes.

The concept of dual citizenship might be able to be practised in our earthly lives but it just doesn’t work when it comes to the Kingdom of God. It is either God’s Kingdom or ours.

Not both. Often this results in ‘duel’ citizenship—fighting for the rights over our life!

yet?’ A follow-up question may well be, ‘What are you doing about it?’

Prior to Jesus recruiting the first disciples, He made the bold proclamation, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe in the good news!’ (Mark 1:15). There are some key words and concepts in this declaration. The idea of the Kingdom of God has been explored and debated by those far more expert than me and involves far more than what can be

The second point is about the means of entrance into the Kingdom. Jesus pronounces the process: repent and believe. These are affirmative actions on our part. Repent means a complete turnaround, not merely being sorry.

Believe involves more than the mind, it is a conviction or trust in God. So repent and believe can be understood as being a complete change of ownership when we yield the rights to having a say over our lives in preference to allowing God to have complete control. In Mark 10:15, Jesus used different words when He says, ‘Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it’.

Here the emphasis is on the passive: receive and enter. It is something God offers and we respond (by repenting

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and believing), receiving and entering.

It is essential we understand this as followers of Jesus. Being a Christian is not merely being able to give a time and place when we made a decision to follow Jesus. It is a change of status from being self-ruled to being Godruled. It is both entering and living in the Kingdom. It is not some arduous life, rather life with the King of kings is abundant life—living life to the full!

Ministry Matters As disciples and followers of Jesus, our emphasis in 2017 is on evangelism, ensuring our family and friends know enough to be able to make an informed decision about following Jesus. Our desire is to have this operating both at a personal level as well as having a church emphasis. My encouragement to you is that right now you may pause and pray for those you know who are not Christians, and that you make yourself available to God to be used in whatever way He pleases to influence these people for Jesus. This year is already looking like a busy year. Do not allow yourself to be so busy that you are prevented from revering in your hearts Christ as Lord. Always being prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15) This year is full of new opportunities: new schools or universities, new jobs, new roles at work, new places of residence, and so on. However, the greatest opportunities will be those that come your way to share about Jesus!

David Loder General Superintendent Queensland Baptists david.loder@qb.org.au

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NEWS, VIEWS & ISSUES

FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to this first issue for 2017—now well underway. It’s good to remember that 1 January is just a date on the calendar. As my pastor reminded our congregation recently, rather than focus on the changeover to a new year, it’s truly a blessing to always remember that God’s compassion and mercies are ‘new every morning’ (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Sound advice!

In his article, David Loder (Comment) challenges us to live life ‘to the full’ this year and share our faith with others at every opportunity. He encourages us to be God-ruled rather than self-ruled, and that living as a Christian means ‘both entering and living in the kingdom’.

Colin Stoodley (Knowing God) introduces our series based on the QB Board Focus for 2017. Selfconfessed ‘wonderer’, Colin shares his insights on church planting and the importance of having ‘a real clear kingdom focus in our theology’ as we seek to plant new churches.

The theme of this year’s QB Prayer Focus 2017 (4–11 June) is Praying for change … each one reach one! You’ll find a date claimer in these pages.

Stewart Pieper comments that we want to be ‘prayerfully intentional in representing Jesus and the gospel to individuals in our circles of influence, so that they will become His followers’. Plan now to be involved.

We are looking forward to welcoming Stephen and Jenny Baxter as our guest speakers at QB Convention 2017.

Jenny contributes an article (Daylight eventually comes), sharing her thoughts about the death of her mother many years ago, and how this has shaped her own life.

I trust that you’ll find joy in all your circumstances throughout the remainder of 2017 as you follow Jesus.

Please enjoy reading this issue of The qb.

Robynne Milne Editor, The qb qb@qb.org.au

The qb is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association, published bi-monthly by Queensland Baptist Services Group in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Editor: Robynne Milne 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, email and postal addresses.

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.

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Unless otherwise noted, Scripture verses appearing in The qb are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011

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FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QB PRAYER FOCUS

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QB PRAYER FOCUS Praying for change ‌ each one reach one!

In 2017 our emphasis as Queensland Baptists is to be prayerfully intentional in representing Jesus and the gospel to individuals in our circles of influence, so that they will become His followers.

The task of evangelism can seem overwhelming when there are so many who do not know Jesus.

But if we all focus on just one person at a time, it becomes a lot less daunting! Please commit to praying for, and be intentional about, introducing at least one person to Jesus this year.

Plan now to be involved.

QB Prayer Focus is planned for 4–11 June, 2017.

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KNOWING GOD

DISCIPLESHIP THROUGH EVANGELISM:

MAKE DISCIPLES

BY GOING & BAPTISING

PART ONE: EVANGELISM THROUGH CHURCH PLANTING I don’t always verbalise it but I watch what is going on around me so that I can learn from it. I think the right way to say it is that I ‘wonder’ about things a lot. Anyway, I would like to share a couple of these ‘wonderings’ with you as they relate to the Kingdom of God and my favourite subject—church planting.

I believe that there has been a subtle theological shift in my lifetime that has had a tremendous impact upon us as God’s people, and I think that this happened almost without being noticed. I remember when I first noticed it because I was preparing for

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

ministry at the time. I was at Bible college. Here’s what I think happened.

The shift away from a biblical view of the Kingdom of God first became noticeable to me in Australia, somewhere between 1976 and 1981.

Now it wasn’t sudden, but that was the point when, I believe, it became discernible to me. There were two major factors I sensed. The first was the popularity of the mega-church model (an American term denoting churches that averaged over 2,000 in attendance each weekend) and the belief that the local church was the hope of the world. There was, and is,

truth to this idea of course, but there is a theological shift here that I think has had some unhealthy effects on our mission. The other major factor that I discerned was the false confidence that was born out of the Church Growth Movement. This movement, from the 1970s and 80s, sought to encourage growth of churches through a mixture of business marketing and biblical principles.

I don’t blame the movement leaders for this, and I hasten to add that there were a lot of good things to come out of this movement, but in the hands of many practitioners, it birthed a false

KNOWING GOD confidence in the church itself and a subtle shift away from the central place of the kingdom needed in our thinking. It had an effect on the content of the gospel we preached, as well as the ideas that inspired us as believers on our mission.

What happened, I think, was that our understanding of the church, and how it functions and understands itself, became the lens through which we understood and interpreted the kingdom. We didn’t reject the idea of the kingdom—this was a subtle shift and not a dangerous doctrinal plunge into oblivion! But the effects, slow and small at first, have now become a problem of mammoth proportions. What were these effects?

Well, first there has been (I believe) a systemic lowering of conversion and discipleship rates generally in our local churches. Then, there was a slowing in the rate of young catalytic leaders (both men and women) signing up for fulltime mission or ministry across the board; and finally, the issue closest to my heart, a tendency to see church planting as something that could be done with programs, vision statements and a savvy Sunday morning. Now I acknowledge there are cultural issues at play too, and I am sure these things are helpful. But I still think my theory holds—that something shifted then in our understanding of the kingdom, and its effect on our missionary work (wherever we are) has become obvious.

Presently, I find the tide turning again on our understanding of the kingdom.

Now, everywhere I go, I am made aware of concern for the Kingdom of God and with this shift I am praying for an increase in conversion and discipleship rates; in the remobilisation of our catalytic leaders and to church planting based solely on three equally important impulses— evangelism, disciple-making and

prayer. I hope it will happen like this (but I am concerned that it won’t) because we have to deal with some longstanding habits and attitudes towards church and mission.

The other thing I have wondered about is whether the reasons some church plants fail are also connected to this subtle theological shift? I have come to a place where I see a link between church planting failure and faulty kingdom theology (that is, understanding mission through the prism of an understanding of the church). Indeed, I’m doing a PhD on that subject.

Planting a new church, rather than planting a new congregation that might become a church, are two different things in my view. It takes tremendous ‘energy’ to plant a church—rather like the space shuttle lifting off from Cape Canaveral. And the question is – where does this ‘energy’ come from?

I think the energy required for church planting comes from the harvest itself and not just the ministry of the congregation itself. What actually energises a new church is disciples who are being truly transformed and who then, following through their discipleship journey, lead others into this same transformation as an expression of a ‘normal’ Christian life!

This brings a tremendous energy for the harvest still to come. What we may not realise is that thinking clearly about the kingdom helps us to seek for disciples and disciple-making by passionate evangelism, rather than any other measure of success for the mission God has given us. This is an

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example of how good theology helps real ministry. If we think right about the kingdom, then our ministry will be directed to the harvest and the ‘energy’ of multiplication will come from the harvest itself and transformation will be the result—individual, family, town, city and nation.

‘Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 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 28:18-20).

The danger is that church planters will invest time and energy into establishing a new congregation too soon, rather than staying focused on the prayer–evangelism–disciplemaking approach. But, this shift from the central place of the harvest can almost permanently affect the new work, denying it the kingdom focus on the harvest that it needs.

So I guess what I am saying is let’s get a real clear kingdom focus in our theology, and when we are seeking to plant new churches, let’s keep the strategy simple: evangelism and disciple-making, bathed in prayer!

Colin Stoodley Leader, MTQ colin.stoodley@ qb.org.au

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SPEAKING OUT

I’m teaching a postgraduate preaching unit on Contemporary Biblical Preaching this semester. One of the issues we inevitably deal with is the use of multimedia in preaching. This is a complex issue that I don’t have all the answers to, but let me share a few musings.

I’m concerned that preachers will blindly adopt or reject the latest technology without exploring the implications and ramifications. I must confess that I am an avid user of multimedia in my preaching. I don’t use much video, but I do extensively utilise PowerPoint (37 slides in the sermon I preached last Sunday). So I’m not coming to this topic from a completely neutral viewpoint. But let me explore two issues, share some of the questions/ concerns on my mind, and offer a few insights.

1. Preaching by video Video now means that preachers can reach a much larger audience. The use of video allows a preacher to be

seen by a very large group because his/ her image is projected onto a screen (some of our churches are doing this).

It allows a preacher to speak to multiple audiences in multiple locations (some of our churches are filming preachers and sending this to other locations). It allows TV preachers to speak to millions. It allows a sermon to be viewed during the week by someone who has missed the live service. It allows churches to build online congregations who may only view videoed sermons. It allows churches to offer a video sermon in a service when they cannot, or choose not, to have a live preacher. So you can see that video offers so many new possibilities to increase the impact of preaching. It appears to be a God-send.

My questions: Is preaching by video the same as live preaching? Is some connection sacrificed when listeners are not actually interacting with a live preacher? Will this lead to fewer, but more gifted, preachers? Will people eventually prefer a powerful video preacher to a humdrum local pastor?

Is this a good thing? What will this

SERVANT OR MASTER? PREACHING AND THE USE OF MULTIMEDIA FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

mean for the church? Is preaching an important part of pastoral leadership or is it a role for those who are most gifted?

My reflection: Video has given us the ability to not only hear or read great sermons from very gifted preachers, but to actually watch them as well. I have been moved by God through watching video sermons. Right throughout history, there have been excellent preachers who have commanded large audiences. Video now extends their influence (as did the printing press) and I see this as a good thing. I’m sure there is a place for using video preaching wisely. However, thankfully the accessibility of video preaching does not yet appear to be greatly impacting the influence of the ordinary, local preacher.

God continues to empower preaching no matter how average, and congregations mainly continue to listen and grow. I would be concerned if this changes. I do see preaching as an important part of biblical shepherding. To me there is still some difference between listening to a live person who I respect and who understands my context, and listening

SPEAKING OUT

to a video preacher whose life I can’t see and who may well be preaching to a different culture/context.

2. Using PowerPoint and other multimedia As mentioned above, I love using PowerPoint in preaching. It enables me to demonstrate historical and geographical detail, to introduce diagrams that clarify what I am teaching, to put up Scripture so that everyone can check out what the Bible is saying, to paint images that illustrate the propositions I am stating, and to underline the main points that I am making. There is plenty of research around that indicates that listeners are much more likely to retain information when they learn through multisensory communication.

My questions: Why do many of the best preachers not use multimedia (or use very rudimentary multimedia) when they speak? Is the power of preaching based around verbal connection and listeners’ sensitivity to the Spirit

which may be lost with too much visual stimulation? When does the use of PowerPoint cross the line from communication to entertainment? Does strong use of multimedia turn listeners into consumers? Am I creating a rod for my own back by producing a standard of multimedia communication that will be difficult to maintain? Is it an effective stewardship of time to put hours into preparing a high-class multimedia presentation?

My reflection: It takes considerable time, skill and effort to prepare effective multimedia presentations. While others with gifts in these areas may assist, the use of multimedia usually means a greater investment by the preacher.

This time has to come from somewhere.

Often it will come from the research and writing of the sermon. So the sermon may become more interesting but less solid, more entertaining but less insightful, more attractive but less informative. This is an issue to watch.

The use of multimedia mustn’t reduce us to serving a diet of milk in sermons.

The other caution I offer is to make sure

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that the use of media doesn’t detract or distract from the main message of the sermon.

But I can see no theological problem with the use of multimedia. The beauty of the temple and the actions of the prophets show us that God communicates visually as well as orally.

The effective use of multimedia provides preachers with new opportunities to communicate the gospel message to listeners who learn in a variety of ways.

Conclusion I hope that I have shown that new technologies can both enhance and endanger effective preaching.

Multimedia makes a great servant but a terrible master. I think that generally we are ‘hastening slowly’ in embracing multimedia in preaching, and that is a good thing. Please let me know if you have any other insights or questions.

John Sweetman Principal, Malyon john.sweetman@ malyon.edu.au

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BAPTISMS

BAPTISMS Deagon (Brisbane) Connect Baptist Church came into being in 2012 as a result of the merger of Sandgate and Geebung Baptist Churches. Lee Nicholls, Connect Baptist Youth Worker, writes: What a year it was for Connect Youth Group – Deagon in 2016! God did many amazing things, and He really helped us finish the year well. We had the absolute privilege of baptising nine of our fantastic youth in November!

It’s a funny story, actually. I felt led to speak about baptism one night at Connect Youth during our input time, and at the end of the brief message, I asked if any of the youth felt that they were ready to publically declare Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. About three hands went up, and I got excited! So I finished off by offering a special small group for those who were keen to get baptised and for those who wanted to know more about ‘this whole baptism thing’.

We had about 12 youth attend the ‘baptism small group’ that night,

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From left Sue, Gary, Tahlia, (Pastor Bal), Lachlan, Braelyn, Reagon, and Marisa_Wondai Baptist Church

and I was blown away! Near the end of the discussions, I again asked who felt that they wanted to take this step. About five hands went up! Now, this is where I started to freak out. I thought, ‘Oh no! I must’ve explained it wrong, or answered their questions incorrectly! Too many youth have put their hands up!’ So, we had even further discussions around the topic of baptism, answered even more questions, and again, explained what baptism is—super clearly. And at the end of that second clarification, nine hands went up!!!

Wondai

God is so good! Looking back, I laugh at myself for thinking that five was ‘too many’. God had His own plan, and He’s always working beneath the surface of our youth. It was such a fantastic time of celebration to finish off the year. It’s a pleasure to be a part of such a great group of kids, and to lead an amazing team of youth leaders.

Praise

Ps Colin Christian writes:

God for the awesome work that He is doing!

There was a full house (60 people) at Wondai Baptist Church on Sunday 27 November when eight people were baptised. Parents and grandparents of the younger candidates were there to witness this great event in their lives, and everyone rejoiced with all those who went through the waters of baptism to declare their faith in, and obedience to, Jesus Christ. All glory goes back to Him. Boonah

On Sunday 27 November, five of our folk were obedient to Jesus and followed Him through the waters of baptism. It was a great time together as 96 people celebrated the occasion. Folk were encouraged and strengthened in their faith through the service as they watched on and saw the outworking of an inward-doing of God at work in the lives of His people.

BAPTISMS

Boonah BC

The message that morning was on Phillip and the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40). Following the message, the Spirit of God was at work and many broke down and wept. As others were confronted with their need for baptism, to be obedient to Jesus, we are looking forward to another baptism service soon.

It was also exciting in the days that followed, as those baptised shared their baptism experience with others in the community, and there were other conversations as a result of the service. It is our prayer that God would continue to build and strengthen His church, as we allow Him to have His way amongst us.

Connect BC

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Boonah BC

Enoggera Kirsten Bungey (Enoggera Baptist Church) writes: My uncles Wayne and Ian Bauer were baptised recently. They are both intellectually disabled and have been attending Enoggera Baptist Church since they were about five years old.

At the morning service on the day Wayne and Ian were baptised, their sister (and my Mum), Ruth Bungey, went up and spoke on their behalf. She sat down with each of them, separately, and asked some questions about why they would like to be baptised, who Jesus was to them, and when they had accepted Jesus.

Wayne remembered very clearly. When he was a teenager and in boys’ brigade, there was a guest preacher who invited people after the message to come down to the front. He remembers going to the front of the church and the pastor prayed with him—that is when he accepted Jesus into his life.

Ian explained that when his Dad died, ‘I knew that Dad was in heaven and that he would want me to be there with him, too, one day, and the only way I could get there was through Jesus. So that is when I accepted Jesus into my life’.

After the morning service, people were invited to pastor’s house to witness the baptisms.

Wayne, Enoggera BC

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BAPTISMS

Ken, Gladstone BC

Heidi, Deception Bay BC

Please pray for those baptised recently in all our churches around Queensland, including:

Wez Holmes Kandece Lester Alexandra Oehl

Boonah Baptist Church David Christian Caleb Christian Josiah Christian Jordan Christian Fran Licciardo

Connect Baptist Church – Deagon Lily Clark Brayden Cooper Emily Craig Chloe Leyden Maddie McKenzie Pamela Michel Lizzy Pearce Amy Sutherland Theo Todd Emma Wright

Bribie Island Baptist Church Dianne BOLHA Bundaberg Baptist Church Brendon Kemp Craig Stevens Blake Stevens Caloundra Citylife Baptist Church Jonathan Blowers Church@TheGabba Aruna Guduru Genevieve Preston Lisa Zhang City North Baptist Church Barbara Cathcart Cleveland Baptist Church Michael Gunton Segana Gunton Laura Miles Clontarf Beach Baptist Church (during 2016) Aiden Casey Laura Cuerden Mitchell Dean Melanie Griffith Steven Griffith Samantha Hallam FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Dalby Baptist Church Helen Brookes Ian Chapman Kaitlyn Denton Josiah Gaul Dan Green Louise Green Brad Pharaoh Tarlee Pharaoh Sam Stockley Deception Bay Baptist Church Belinda Geddes Emma Geddes Heidi Kriel Enoggera Baptist Church Ian Bauer Wayne Bauer Gateway Baptist Church Matthew Docherty Skye Heather Hannah Hopper Sam Huntington Mustafa Reza Seyed Guy Sherington

Ian baptised by Phil Bungey, Enoggera BC

Gladstone Baptist Church Ken Lee Greenslopes Baptist Church Paul Grant Apisi Naisarani Kruger Parade Baptist Church (Redbank) Alicia Adamovics Patrick Alphani Bindii Beckett Alex Crook Stafford Heights Baptist Church Neni Brobi Lauren Trench Wayne Trench Wondai Baptist Church Gemma Beutel Gary Goschnick Sue Goschnick Tahlia Goschnick Reagon Goschnick Braelyn Goschnick Marisa Hosking Lachlan Hosking ‘Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the only two ceremonies given by Jesus Christ through Scripture to be observed by the church for all ages. We call them ‘ordinances’ as they have been ordained by Christ. We not call them ‘sacraments’ because they do not convey Christ’s salvation which is conveyed directly by the Holy Spirit in response to the individual’s faith. Baptism is the immersion of believers upon their repentance and profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Baptism pictures the connecting of the believer with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection’ (Excerpt from Queensland Baptists—Guidelines for Belief and Practice).

AROUND THE REGIONS

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AROUND THE REGIONS

Time for change Many readers won’t be aware of Equipping Partners for Ministry (EPM), a course designed to equip, support and encourage the spouses of men and women who are seeking to become registered ministers with Queensland Baptists. Conducted by a team of volunteers, the course covers six topics, each of which is supported by seminars and a mentor program. A participant is deemed to have completed the course, which is compulsory, once their mentor has signed off on each of the topics.

The structure of the current EPM course was established in 1992 and this year some changes are being planned. Susan Harris and Ros Grieve concluded their involvement in the program at the end of last year. Ros, whose involvement started in 1999, was a team member and finance person; Susan was an EPM team member from 2001 and then

the EPM Coordinator. EPM has also been supported by a faithful team of volunteers who’ve served for varying numbers of years: currently, Jillian Sison, Kelly Herron and Coralee Lawrence.

‘As well as the information and knowledge that’s been shared at seminars, EPM has provided a unique opportunity for spouses of pastors to meet and get to know each other, and spend time together, especially for those who have come along to most, or all, of the six seminars. Many people have given feedback over the years that they’ve formed very significant relationships and friendships through meeting up at EPM seminars,’ Susan Harris said.

As Ros and Susan have now concluded, it’s timely that we honour them and offer our heartfelt thanks for their great work with this valuable program. Thankyou!

Carols on Church Street Pastor Colin Christian (Boonah Baptist Church) writes: On Saturday 17 December, Boonah Baptist Church opened its doors to the wider township. For our first Community Carols Service, Carols on Church Street, this truly was a great opportunity to show the love of Jesus to our community. We enjoyed items from some of the church folk, and much carol singing.

Around 80 people not directly connected with the church joined us, and many from the community asked if the church will run the event again next year.

We thank the Lord for this opportunity!

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AROUND THE REGIONS

Glasshouse Country Baptist Church Choir (Photo Rob Hill)

Colin, carols and Christmas

with him. Colin was amazed that they all knew the words by heart’, Jenny added.

Sandy Johnson (Glasshouse Country Baptist Church) writes:

The children’s familiarity with Colin’s music was largely due to Glasshouse Christian College primary concerts where the students had already performed many of his songs. Imagine what it was like for the 550 primary students to see and hear these songs from the artist himself!

Approximately 6,000 people gathered in Beerwah on 16 December 2016 for the most successful Glasshouse Country Community Carols ever! The stellar line-up included the Glasshouse Country Baptist Church(GCBC) Choir, GCBC Band, country stars Cassi Hilbers and Liam KennedyClark and special guest artist, Colin Buchanan.

GCBC Music Director, Jenny Broderick, coordinated the whole night from writing the MC scripts to securing the guest line-up, and she had a huge team behind her.

Nicknamed ‘Aunty Jenny’ by Colin Buchanan, she was called up onto the stage to play air guitar, help with the flying chicken, and dance along with dozens of starry-eyed children and their even starrier-eyed parents.

‘Colin is a lovely down-to-earth person who surprised us with a few of his on-stage antics, but we were also able to surprise him,’ Jenny said.

‘When Colin began singing, hundreds of children rushed down to the front of the stage and began singing along FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Colin was so impressed with the organisation of the night that he invited Glasshouse Country Baptist Church to host his next tour run.

In the lead up to the carols, GCBC Choir performed at the Beerwah twilight markets and carolled around the local shopping centre, where they were even asked to sing inside Woolworths. The GCBC youth leaders organised a nativity and animal farm at the shopping centre where visitors could have their photo taken and learn about the upcoming carols night.

GCBC has been able to contribute musically to many local community events and wants to thank Queensland Baptists for providing a Baplink grant to purchase portable sound gear, which has made these activities easier and so much more effective.

A fun catch!

Margaret Kerr (Clontarf Beach Baptist Church) writes: As part of their Solo Parents Support program (SPS), Clontarf Beach Baptist recently held a fishing event, early one Saturday morning at Margate Beach. Children who were keen to fish were linked with fishermen from the church. Fishing equipment and bait were kindly provided by Les Franklin and Stan Daniels. A scrumptious morning tea of watermelon and hot chips was quickly devoured.

Result: great fun, many fish and a morning of wonderful memories.

Verdict: this should happen again!

As well as ongoing prayer, social and practical support, the SPS committee organises Mothers’ Day dinners, Christmas parties, barbeque/swims and other events for over 35 solo parent families. God has a special heart for the broken and vulnerable, and the SPS committee hopes that in this way, these families can be introduced to His love for them.

‘He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young’ (Isaiah 40:11).

AROUND THE REGIONS

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Another ‘big gig’ for Tony Dee

From broken dreams to new beginnings

Christmas Lights shine bright at Lifepointe

Tony Doevendans, QB’s quiet achiever in the Baplink office, had a very special Australia Day celebration this year. Following the enormous success of the ‘Yes I Can’ promotional video for the Rio Paralympics 2016, Tony was invited to perform at Australia Day 2017—Live at the Sydney Opera House. The event, billed as bringing together ‘a collection of Australia’s best talent, including Tina Arena, Guy Sebastian, Human Nature, Dami Im, Nat Conway, James Morrison, Tony Dee, The Wiggles, Russell Morris and Sebastian Kelly-Toiava’, was hosted

by Grant Denyer and Kerri-Anne Kennerley.

Lifepointe Baptist Church is hosting a full one-day conference on new beginnings with special guest speaker Sheridan Voysey, who is based in the UK. Sheridan is a writer, speaker and broadcaster. ‘With over 2000 radio interviews under my belt, I am continually fascinated by people’s stories’ Sheridan says. ‘I aim to write books that speak to the heart, and one of my great loves is speaking on contemporary faith and spirituality.

“Conversation” is an important word for me and I try to engage readers, listeners and audiences from a diverse range of backgrounds.’ (Readers will remember that Sheridan’s writing is reprinted from time to time in this magazine.) This special event, and others in Melbourne and Sydney, are in partnership with Our Daily Bread Ministries and are free to attend.

Sheridan will speak from his books Resurrection Year and Resilient.

Thousands of people and hordes of volunteers made the Sunshine Coast Christmas Lights, produced by Lifepointe Baptist Church, an event to be remembered. The real meaning of Christmas was effectively presented at this eight-night event that concluded on Christmas Eve. Along with all the usual ‘fun of the fair’, there was a Christmas presentation, the Expo of Hope, Christmas markets, and the Bethlehem Walk.

Tony performed ‘Yes I can’ alongside James Morrison playing his trumpet.

About performing with Tony, James Morrison said: ‘Apart from the fact that he’s so inspirational, he’s a great singer! We’re having a ball here!’

‘It was an absolute privilege and so exciting to sing with so many supertalented musicians at such an iconic venue, in front of such a large and enthusiastic crowd,’ Tony said. ‘In this I see God’s favour at every turn and thank Him for the undeserved blessings being poured out right now.’ www.facebook.com/tonydeemusic

From Broken Dreams to New Beginnings 9.30 am 20 May 2017 Lifepointe Baptist Church, 186 Wises Road, North Buderim Please direct conference enquiries to ph (03) 9761 7086, australia@odb.org or visit www.ourdailybread.org For more information about Sheridan, visit www.sheridanvoysey.com

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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AROUND THE REGIONS families with to celebrate Easter, Christmas, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

Raelene Hawke and Community Chaplain Kerry Parry with four of the graduating children (Photo: Dell McFarlane)

Mainly music on the tablelands Raelene Hawke (Atherton Baptist Church) writes: Commencing in 1990, mainly music is an effective ministry for churches to connect with the wider community— an early childhood education session involving a myriad of learning activities that encourage child and parent to connect in fun ways to listen, look, and learn together.

Welcomed at the door, shoes off, find our personal prop bag and name tag, find a place on the mats to sit with our ‘big person’ for music time, and then off to craft we go to develop our hand-eye coordination, our creativity, and to learn things about a God who loves us. We are helped by a wonderful mainly music team who delight to reflect Jesus’ love and grace through every activity.

It’s our Christmas program, and over five weeks we make an Advent Wreath with five coloured candles green (life); purple (promise); blue (hope); yellow (joy) and

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We gathered for the final Christmas session on a Saturday morning in December when over 20 families gathered to conclude a wonderful year. It was exciting to see over 50 Adults and 50 children fill the hall to overflowing.

red (love), and we learn colours and numbers, and about the Advent of Jesus.

Thirty Advent wreaths and their message go home with the children.

Wow! One of the mothers wrote a thankyou card saying, ‘Coming to mainly music was like getting a warm hug each week!’

Atherton Monday mainly music was initially commenced mid-2014 by a Churches of Christ community initiative at the Access Place Café in Atherton, with the mainly music team coming from various Tableland churches. It quickly outgrew the space available at the café and at the end of 2015 relocated to the Atherton Baptist hall. Then, in 2016 the initiative transferred to the Atherton Baptist Church—who were happy to inherit it from the Churches of Christ and provide the local ‘umbrella of support’ required for all mainly music sessions. The Atherton Baptist Church has generously embraced mainly music with much support—prayer, hospitality, assisting with craft and prop preparation, and contributing financially to the gospel gifts we bless

Most of the families brought back their advent wreath to complete it with the final candle. We lit the five candles, and the pre-schoolers and parents presented some of their Christmas music activities. We concluded celebrating Jesus’ birthday with a beautiful Advent birthday cake, and Pastor John Whyte presented each family with a Christmas gift bag of goodies. Community Chaplain Kerry Parry gave a picture Bible to each of the four pre-schoolers graduating to ‘big school’. The wonderful morning concluded with a sausage sizzle, cake and ice cream.

New pastors meet Thirty newly registered pastors attended the New Pastors’ Conference in November 2016. This annual event is conducted to support and encourage participants and to provide them with resources. The day included time in the Word and worship together, information and training for their denominational role, networking with QB staff and opportunity to raise any issues the new pastors felt were important to their ministry.

AROUND THE REGIONS

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Agnes Water/Town of 1770

Fresh fields Agnes Water/Town of 1770 Seventeen Seventy and Glasshouse have more in common than both being named by Captain Cook.

College Chaplain of Glasshouse Christian College and Associate Pastor of Glasshouse Country Baptist Church, Dan Bassett, was inducted on 22 January 2017 as the new minister of Agnes Water Baptist Church, which also serves Seventeen Seventy.

as a primary chaplain at Glasshouse Christian College before having children. The perfect replacement for Danielle was her husband Dan, who had just completed his theological degree and was ready for ministry. The transition was seamless and there was almost no need to change the name badge!

on Joshua 1 about trusting God in new beginnings. Chris struggled to maintain his composure as he talked about how the Dans would be missed at GCBC.

Dan also served as Associate Pastor at GCBC and gained a great deal of experience in all aspects of pastoring a church.

(Sandy Johnson, GCBC)

Affectionately known as ‘The Dans’, Daniel Bassett, his wife, Danielle, and their young children, Malachi and Adriella, arrived four days before the induction and quickly settled into their new life.

Agnes Water Baptist Church made the young family welcome by filling the manse fridge, freezer and pantry. They also hired the local community hall to fit in all the extra visitors who came for the induction.

Thirty-two people from Glasshouse Country Baptist Church (GCBC) travelled the five hours north for the special occasion. The Dans have been a much loved part of GCBC for the past four years with Danielle working

Glasshouse Country Baptist Church provided musicians and singers for the service and the sound equipment purchased with a QB grant came in handy once again. GCBC minister Reverend Chris Johnson preached

Cooktown

Agnes Water Baptist Church and the Dans are excited about this new chapter in their lives.

Cooktown New pastoral couple Morgan and Heidi Slykerman commenced their ministry at Cooktown Baptist Church on 1 January 2017. This image was taken on Sunday 22 February.

Murgon Adam Clayton was inducted as Associate Pastor at Murgon Baptist Church in November last year.

Following the service, the church enjoyed great fellowship over lunch together.

Murgon

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AROUND THE REGIONS Clockwise from back left—Warren Crank, Stewart Pieper, Stephen Ball, Pieter Henning Emil Rahimov with General Superintendent, David Loder (centre front)

QB’s regional consultants QB’s five regional consultants are ‘back in the saddle’ and ready for a busy and productive year providing support to churches and pastors. This team of experienced ministers has a good general awareness of local church issues, expertise in certain areas and a well-developed referral network to connect churches to expertise in particular areas, relevant to their needs. The team’s role includes: • Assisting Queensland Baptists to achieve their vision • Working with local churches as they seek to be followers of Jesus • Facilitating ministry in their areas of specialisation • Contributing to leadership development of pastors and church leaders • Assisting pastors and churches during periods of transition.

Stephen Ball was on special duties during 2016, working on implementing the recommendations arising from the QB Training Review.

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This has involved a restructuring of the pastoral registration process and in 2017 the introduction of supervision for the first two years a minister is registered. Since February, Stephen is the regional consultant for some areas of Brisbane. Stephen will also take up the role of Formation Coordinator and provide support and oversight to those seeking registration and the period of supervision. This will cover all newly registered pastors from their first enquiry to the end of their two years of supervision. Support of newly registered ministers at the local church level will be taken up by the Regional Consultant of each region.

David Loder as director of Pastoral Services will continue to provide oversight of re-registration and transfer of credentials of new ministers who have previously been registered in another Baptist Union or another denomination.

Stewart Pieper, who has already made a good contribution in supporting and encouraging pastors and churches,

will take over from Stephen Ball in the role of assisting the General Superintendent.

The allocation of regions is as follows: Stephen Ball Brisbane City, Brisbane South West and Brisbane West Warren Crank Brisbane North, Caboolture/Pine, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane East, Bundaberg and Wide Bay/Burnett Pieter Henning Central Qld, North Qld and Far North Qld Stewart Pieper Brisbane Bayside, Brisbane South, Ipswich/West Moreton, Darling Downs and Gold Coast Emil Rahimov (0.6 FTE) Ethnic (42 + churches & fellowships)

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MILESTONES

A GREAT FIELD FOR EVANGELISTIC OUTREACH Gladstone Baptist Church (GBC) celebrated its 50th anniversary on 20 November 2016. The first thought of planting a church in Gladstone came in 1903 when Rev William Richer visited Central Queensland and reported to the Home Mission Committee that Gladstone was a great field for evangelistic outreach.

However, it wasn’t until 1966 that the beginnings of GBC were birthed at a service in the home of Mr and Mrs Owen. Sixteen adults from ten families attended.

The church bought its first land in 1967; two house blocks on Barry Street. The first building, largely constructed with volunteer labour, was opened by Rev Vic Bowring on 1 March 1969.

The legacy of the church’s ministry was built on the faithful church family who called Gladstone home and Mission to Queensland, who supported the church with pastors and assisted with their stipend during FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

the church’s formative years—years that were particularly difficult times for the Gladstone community: a booming population, low levels of accommodation with a lot of overcrowding, and a comparatively high cost of living.

The family has always been at the heart of GBC. In 1985, to support Christian families in the community to raise and educate their children, the Gladstone Baptist Church established the Gladstone Christian Community School (GCCS), which was opened with an enrolment of 21 students. Today, GCCS is known as Trinity College and has in excess of 500 students from kindy to year 12. In recent years, the school has been continuing to develop first class teaching facilities with new classrooms and a specialty science and arts block.

Over the years, GBC has seen many changes. Gladstone is a very transient town with a ‘boom and bust’ cycle of development linked to the mining and

aluminium industries. Yet through it all, GBC remains a church fixed on a God who achieves the impossible. This is a church that has been characterised by a willingness to reach out into the community and a desire to grow disciples and care for families. Our heart remains family, and our vision is to ‘be the family of God and be bringing others into the family of God’.

The church, with members past and present, celebrated 50 years of witnessing God at work through His people in Gladstone. It was a special service which included the inductions of Alison Hall (Associate Pastor Pastoral Care) and Josh Hicks (Associate Pastor Youth/Young Adults) as well as the ordination of Rev Nick Riley. God and His church has much in store for the community of Gladstone in the years to come.

Nick Riley, Associate Pastor at Gladstone Baptist Church

MILESTONES

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CONTINUOUS WITNESS FOR OVER A CENTURY Silkstone Baptist Church celebrated their 104th anniversary in Ipswich at the end of 2016. Baptist witness in the Silkstone area has been continuous for more than 100 years, while the church building itself has been a local landmark for almost 90 years. For most locals, the Baptist Tabernacle (as it was originally known) and the Silkstone Baptists have always been there.

At the beginning, on 11 November 1911, a group of interested deacons and lay preachers of the Ipswich Baptist Church met with their pastor, Rev. J. C. Farquhar, to discuss the prospects of opening a Baptist work in Silkstone. As a result, Glenville Hall, situated at 132 Station Road, was hired for 6 shillings (60 cents) a week. Ipswich Members endorsed the steering committee’s actions enthusiastically on 13 December 1911. Further, a property on Blackstone Road was purchased for £60 ($120) during the same month with a view to erecting a church.

The anniversary celebration dinner was a time of great thanksgiving, with rich fellowship and delicious food. A great night was enjoyed by all as everyone recalled God’s faithfulness.

The church invited the The Ginn Gang along to provide music and ministry.

Since beginning ministry in 2014, life has been busy for the Ginn family as they have shared in many schools, kids’ clubs, church events and youth groups around Australia. They love to serve the Lord Jesus Christ through

music and speaking. The family began 2016 working with Scripture Union at the Tamworth Music Festival, and throughout last year they have developed a new area of outreach by providing live music and calling for bush dances hosted by local churches.

This has proven to be a wonderful way to engage the local community while helping the church build bridges into people’s lives. For more information about The Ginn Gang visit www.theginngang.com.

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Looking to Invest?

3.50% pa Term Investment (36 months) Baplink is offering a special investment rate, effective 1 February 2017, of up to 3.50% pa for a 36 month term.

Term investments are available to individuals, companies, superannuation funds and other entities.

Baplink also offers great rates for general investment: 3.30% pa 6 months 3.25% pa 12 months Contact Baplink for more information on this special rate.

Not available to QB Affiliates or Entities. Total investment capped at $10,000,000 at the special rate. Subscriptions will be placed on a first come, first served basis. Maximum investment per client is $2,500,000.

1800 650 062

baplink@baplink.org.au

www.baplink.org.au

General term investment rates effective 1 June 2015.

BAPLINK

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PHOTOGRAPHIC & ART COMPETITION

Baplink Photographic & Art Competition Baplink would like to thank everyone who entered this competition.

Here are the winners!

Adult category 1st Prize: All Shall Bow, Lesley Tunnah from Mackay Baptist Church 2nd Prize: All Welcome, Graham Preston from Church @ the Gabba 3rd Prize: Blenheim 1882, Kevin Clarke from Banyo Baptist Church Child category 1st Prize: Sunday Morning at Gateway, Isabel Currie from Gateway Baptist Church Congratulations!

Your gift certificates will be in the mail soon.

Lending exceeds $100 million 2016 was a great year for Baplink, with our lending to churches and affiliates increasing by 44% in 12 months to over $100 million! This funding allows churches and affiliates to grow, expand and offer new and greater services to our communities, including church buildings and facilities, schooling, childcare, Out of Hours School Care, coffee shops and meeting places. We are so blessed to be a part of the expansion of our churches and affiliates across Queensland Baptists.

Xero has also been a big hit with QB churches; we now have more than 70 churches using this great accounting program to streamline their administration, saving many hours of tedious accounting work for paid staff and volunteers. We will continue to expand this across the state in 2017 with demonstrations and installations in regional areas planned during the year.

Baplink continues to look onwards and upwards as we prepare more products and services, increasing our capacity to invest in ministry. Our goal is to provide investment services to all of our church community—from pre-schoolers to retirees—enabling each person to grow the Kingdom of God through investing in QB churches through Baplink. More information on this new initiative coming later this year.

Thank you to all our investors, churches and affiliates for your trust in us as together we invest in ministry.

Robert Chapman Baplink Manager robert.chapman@ baplink.org.au Image: Construction continues at RiverLife Baptist Church at Seventeen Mile Rocks, a major project for Baplink funding.

For more information about Baplink’s services Phone: 1800 650 062 Email: baplink@baplink.org.au www.baplink.org.au

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QB WOMEN

It is your story Once upon a time, there was a king who had a kingdom full of beautiful daughters. The daughters were spread all across the land. They raised their families, went to school and worked and mingled in each other’s presence.

Some of his daughters knew him well.

They spent their time talking to him, telling him their problems, thanking him for helping them. They loved their father and he loved them. Some of his daughters knew him but had drifted away from staying in touch.

Some were angry that he wasn’t there for them (even though he was), but they didn’t call out to him. Some of them were unhappy that he didn’t give them what they wanted and refused to speak to him or acknowledge him.

The king still loved them but was saddened by their scorn.

More of his daughters didn’t know him. They weren’t sure where they came from or who their father was.

Some of them were searching for the one who would make them complete.

Others didn’t really care but thought they were fine on their own. Others hated the king and broke his laws, scorned his name and abused his love.

The King loved these daughters and cried over their hardened hearts.

A group of his daughters felt compassion on the daughters who were far away from the king. They

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gathered together and asked the king how they could reach out to his daughters—to encourage the daughters who knew him, to heal the daughters who had hurts, and to love the daughters who scorned him.

The king directed them to meet with his daughters at locations across the land where they could come. He said to gather a team to serve and love his daughters, and take music, make speeches, provide food and gifts.

The group of daughters did so. They took their music, speeches, food and gifts to locations across the land. They called the daughters of the king to come and be blessed; to hear news of the king and his love for them; to rejoice and encourage each other; to bring those who needed to return to

the king’s love and to bring those who needed the king’s forgiveness. The daughters of the king came, and they were blessed by the king.

This is a sweet story. I would like to say ‘and they lived happily ever after’, but the ending is not written yet.

It is YOUR story.

You are a Daughter of the King!

You are a Daughter of the King … you are wonderfully made, dearly loved, and precious in His sight. Before God made you, He knew you … there is no one else like you! (Psalm 139) Come join us at one of our She is… events, as together we explore what it means to be a Daughter of the King,

QB WOMEN

to be a daughter of the most high God and to be deeply loved by Him. This year we are holding five conferences and two camps around Queensland, four of these at new venues!

We will be heading to Biloela for our first conference, held at Biloela Baptist Church on 5–6 May, and then to Innisfail Baptist Church in Far North Qld for our conference on 26–27 May. Mt Tamborine camp will be 16–18 June, followed by our first ever conference in the Outback at Longreach Baptist Church on 14–15 July. Our Sunshine Coast camp at Mapleton will be held 4–6 August, and our first ever conference in Dalby will be held 25–26 August. We finish up with another new conference in Mackay on 8–9 September.

We are looking forward to some great speakers, beautiful worship, lots of fun, and deep moments together with God. We are pleased to announce our speakers are:

Bronwen Healy—Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Hope Foundation, a charity she launched in 2007 to help women who want to be free from addiction and/or the sex industry. Bronwen’s driving passion is to instil hope in every living soul, and to tell them they are ‘loved, valued and created with a purpose’. She spoke at our Mapleton camp last year, and we are so excited to be welcoming her back to speak at Biloela and Mt Tamborine.

Charissa Steffens—former editor of Indulge Magazine and author of the blog, She matters (shematters.com.au). Charissa shared at Biloela and Toowoomba last year, and this year will be speaking at Innisfail and Longreach.

Toni Rehrmann—National Director for Australian Baptist Women, Director of NT Baptist Women, and on the pastoral team at Darwin Baptist Church. Toni spoke to us at Mt Tamborine last year, and will be our keynote speaker at Mapleton this year.

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Elissa MacPherson—International speaker, and author of the books Beautiful and Mirror, mirror. Elissa is also the Social Media Director for the Baptist World Alliance Women’s Department, and will be sharing with us at Dalby and Mackay.

We are looking forward with expectation to what God is going to say to us through these women and through each other as we share our stories together. Can’t wait to see you at one (or more) of our conferences and camps this year!

Early Bird registrations open 1 March 2017; register online at sheis.net.au.

Cathy Ballantine & Cathy Knechtli Cathy Knechtli Queensland Baptist Women director@sheis.net.au

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QB KIDS & THEIR FAMILIES rest, knowing how truly capable and incredible He is. Through all the sticky glue, the glitter, the tough questions, the tired tantrums, the planning meetings, the safety trainings and the storeroom clean-outs, Jesus is able.

And despite your inadequacies, your nervousness, weaknesses and failures, Jesus promises He will be there, surely, until the end of the age. And He will build His church. So I hope you feel the gravity and importance of what we are called to do in building our kids’ ministries, but I really hope that you are assured of your true calling, to follow, rely on, and be completely and assuredly dependant on Jesus.

L L A C G I IT’S A B Dear kids & family ministry leaders, volunteers, team members & pastors, I always struggle with what to call you guys, but Happy 2017, whatever you’re called! Kids’ Ministry Leader, Kids’ Pastor, Families’ Pastor, Children’s Ministry Coordinator or Sunday School Teacher; you’re all heroes to me.

This year, if you’re unsure of what you should be called, I hope you’re assured of your calling. It’s a big one.

Called to minister to those the world sees as ‘the least’, yet we know have the most of many things: the most ready smiles, the most busy hands, the most fun, and the most willing hearts to learn and to be loved. Our kids are ready, diving back into school, ready to conquer new challenges, make FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

new friends, learn new things about themselves, their families, their world, their purpose, and our God. I hope you feel the gravity of this calling. I hope you see how big it is, even if it is a little scary. I hope you get giddy with excitement, like I do, at the beginning of the year, thinking about all the kids that Jesus is going to lead through your doors in the search for true belonging, true hope, and true love. I hope you feel blessed that you get to share those things. But I also hope you feel a little inadequate for the big task. I know I do. Because those feelings of nervousness and inadequacy cause me to think bigger; to think of the one who called me in the first place. And He reminds me of my true calling: Just to be His. To be dependant on Him, to let Jesus lead the year ahead and to find

I also hope you know you’re not alone.

There are many churches with kids’ ministry leaders, just like you, called to share the hope of the gospel with kids and families. This year, if you need or want to reach out and meet more kids’ ministry leaders (or whatever they’re called), then do it!

Start with us, at QB Kids and their Families, if you like, because we are in the business of connecting with, and equipping and encouraging the socks off kids’ ministry leaders. We’ve got some great ideas you can try, we know more people like you who you can talk to, we travel to visit you, we shout you coffee, and we’ve done our homework on what’s going on in the kids’ ministry world.

So please, let us help you where you’re called to lead. We hope to hear from you or maybe see you at IGNITE Conference & Expo at our booth on Saturday, 4 March.

We’re cheering and praying for you, Sally Contessi Team Leader QB Kids and their Families sally.contessi@qb.org.au

MALYON

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KINGDOM WORK RECOGNISED For the first time, Malyon will formally celebrate the life and missional achievements of one of our alumni through the newly established Christian Super Malyon Graduate of Influence Award. At the 2017 Graduating Ceremony (Feb 27), a Malyon graduate will be recognised for his/her contribution to God’s kingdom work and receive a $1,000 travel voucher and $1,000 spending money, donated by Christian Super.

‘It’s always encouraging to see and hear about the kingdom impact of

Malyon alumni, and this special award will give us a chance to recognise and celebrate God’s grace, in and through our graduates,’ says principal John Sweetman. Malyon is aiming to keep this award as an annual fixture at graduation.

This year Malyon has received many nominations worthy of recognition and selecting a winner will be difficult.

‘It is also wonderfully encouraging to see the powerful impact a life surrendered to Christ has, not just on those who are touched directly,

but also on those who are encouraged around them,’ adds Krystal, Malyon’s Communications Officer.

Malyon graduates are changing the culture of workplaces, planting churches, serving as chaplains, shepherding and leading churches, missioning cross-culturally, teaching in Bible colleges, influencing their families, discipling younger Christians, ministering to the poor and evangelising their communities. Of course, there are many other passionate Christians serving God and growing His kingdom, but we are particularly proud of those in whose journey we have had a small part. So many have sacrificed so much to be trained, and we praise God for them and their ongoing impact.

If you would like to keep in touch or share a story of a Malyon graduate who has inspired or encouraged you, please email krystal.lopez-barahona@ malyon.edu.au or phone Malyon on 3354 5656.

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QCCC

‘THEY MUST BE WELL-HEELED’ The Queensland Baptist Archives hold a fascinating document from the 1970s recording a process where Baptist leaders did the rounds of other denominational camping ministries in Queensland to investigate their success and plan a future for Queensland Baptists’ own camping ministry.

Church of Christ’s Camp Cal was described as a busy facility hosting multiple groups, generally schools.

They signed off, noting the high prices charged meant ‘their clients must be well-heeled’ to afford the $2 per night charge!

The Uniting Church had nine camping facilities, and back then the Baptists lagged behind most FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

congregations when it came to campsites and ministry. This process planted the seeds of a plan where the cramped Currumbin site was sold to developers to fund the development of Mapleton and the renovation of other Baptist sites around Queensland.

Well embedded in the DNA of we Baptists is the independence and autonomy of our local congregations and entities, and sometimes this meant individual Baptist churches were fiercely protective of their attendant campsites. It’s important to understand that this distinctive of autonomy grew out of the persecution our early fathers encountered. It fostered a distrust for central government, and by default,

institutional structures of central governance.

However, the early Baptists’ desire was not to create individual silos which don’t trust each other, and compete with each other. Independence and autonomy were vital to the rapid expansion of the Baptist movement, particularly in 19th century America where the bi-vocational farmerpreacher model fuelled growth unfettered by denominational machinery. Chad Brand suggests, ‘As America’s entrepreneurial engine was marching west, so too were Baptists, spreading the gospel. Baptist ecclesiology and ministry practice mirrored the spirit that was making

QCCC

principal commented that QCCC’s programs have been transformational for their school culture, building resilience and life-long skills.

America great (the first time I guess).

As the nation flourished, so did the Baptists1.

Two decades ago, the Christian camping community faced another watershed moment—invest in compliance and shift focus into Outdoor Education, or die a long, painful death. Whilst there was pain and expense involved, my predecessor brought Baptist camping into the twenty-first century and set it up for a glorious future. QCCC is a conduit of the entrepreneurial urge of early Baptists.

Queensland Baptists now possess the largest provider of Outdoor Education services in our state. QCCC caters to more than 40,000 school students annually, comprising more than 450 school group bookings. Outside of that we host hundreds of church camps and partner with scores of community groups and ministries to create life-changing experiences through excellence in hospitality, service and outdoor instruction.

QCCC has to compete against government-subsidised campsites who recently had to tap the taxpayer for millions of dollars of funds to knockdown and re-build facilities which were already newer and superior to the majority of what QCCC offers. Their reason? Despite the subsidies which allow them to undermine the market tariff of private operators by up to 75%, their occupancy was less than half of comparable private sites. The government bought their ‘build it and they will come’ to the tune of several million dollars, and then threw in an extra couple of million for climbing walls to try and trump ours.

So what did we do? We spent a paltry $5,000 to upgrade our existing wall to re-establish our climbing wall as Queensland’s most innovative

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and remarkable school climbing facility. This is a classic example of Baptist competence, innovation and stewardship. The root word for economics is drawn from the New Testament word oikonomia, which is used to describe the New Testament church’s stewardship, and even the provision of salvation (Colossians 1:25). In contrasting the millions governments can fritter against the lean efficiency of the notfor-profit sector, Brand comments, ‘Governments that confiscate from one part of society for their own purposes only create moral and fiscal problems—they solve nothing2.

Over the last few years, QCCC has developed a well-enunciated and implemented strategy of incarnational mission, using hospitality and outdoor education to bring concepts of general revelation to people who are most hostile to the gospel message, and most removed from church attendance. In partnership with many of Queensland’s schools we have developed sequential pathways of outdoor education focussed on curriculum development and spiritual formation. At a recent party thrown by one of Brisbane’s elite schools to thank QCCC staff for their input into their holistic 7-12 camping program, the

QCCC’s staff body numbers over 100 people and contains many professionals who could be earning significantly more in the private sector.

We have a stable of highly skilled people in education, construction, hospitality and finance. This team believes passionately in the potential for camping ministry to make society flourish. In the 1970s, Pink Floyd sang dismissively of the education system as ‘another brick in the wall’. I have come to view our climbing wall as symbolic of the potential for QCCC’s hospitality and Outdoor Education to use innovation and hope to reach those most marginalised by our education system.

These days Camp Cal is a housing estate, and the Sunshine Coast Daily recently ran stories reporting the possible sale of the last remaining Uniting Church campsite. Where other denominations appear to have lost a vision for camping ministries to deliver the Creation and Commandment mandate, I hope we Baptists can celebrate what we have—Queensland’s most innovative and credentialed Outdoor Education provider.

Andrew Grant Director of Queensland Conference and Camping Centres andrew.grant@qccc.com.au www.qccc.com.au

Chad Brand, Flourishing Faith: A Baptist Primer on Work, Economics and Civic Stewardship.

(Grand Rapids: Christian’s Library Press, 2012) 120 2 Ibid 85 1

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

34

QB ARCHIVES

Rev and Mrs HL McIntyre

Pastoring in the ‘good old days’!

An autobiographical account of Rev. H. L. McIntyre’s ministry at Lanefield/ Marburg (1950-1956) This account and image, used with permission of the family, was discovered recently in the Baptist Church Archives Qld. Rev. and Mrs. H. L. McIntyre arrived at Lanefield on Boxing Day 1949, in order to assume the pastorate of the two Churches of Lanefield and Marburg. The signifi¬cance of the date lies in the fact that it was the traditional date of the Lanefield’s Sunday School picnic, and the newcomers had the opportunity of meeting many of the Church folks at the one time.

Mr. McIntyre was a former missionary of the China Inland Mission. As a matter of fact, he was born in China of missionary parents. He was converted as a boy at the China Inland Mission School at Chefoo, North China, returned to Australia after completing his schooling, then after working for a few years in Brisbane, felt the call of God to full-time service, and received his missionary training FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Archivists meet L-R Rear: John Stanhope (NSW), Pat Barnden (GIA), Vivian Carson (NT), John Walker (SA), John Sampson (Vic), David Parker (Qld): L-R front: Grace Merrells (WA), Barbara Coe (ACT), Ros Gooden (SA/GIA)

at the Mel¬bourne Bible Institute. He served in China from 1931 to 1939, when he had to return to Australia owing to ill health.

He entered the Baptist ministry in 1943, and the same year commenced the minis¬terial course with the Queensland Baptist College. He was ordained in 1947. When he became pastor of the Lanefield and Marburg Churches, these two churches were both independent, and also independent of each other, but they agreed to share their pastor. He used to take both services at Lanefield on one Sunday, and both services at Marburg on the next Sunday, and so on, alternately. On the Sundays when he was at Marburg, Lanefield made use of lay preachers who usually travelled up from Brisbane; while Marburg on alternate Sundays had the benefit of hearing Rev. S Newell, who had retired, and was living there.

For some time, the pastor travelled from Lanefield to Marburg on a bicycle, which proved to be a disadvantage whenever the weather turned wet. However, his hosts at Marburg would often warn him to go home when storms began to threaten.

Later he was able to purchase a horse and sulky outfit. The roads were very bad in those days, and it was always a bumpy ride for the pastor. One of the candle-lamps on the sulky shook to pieces because of the rough road, and one night the pastor borrowed a hurricane lantern from Mr. Newell in order to drive home. As soon as the horse got on the open road, she took the bit in her teeth and bolted, evidently frightened by the shadows thrown by the bright light of the lantern. The pastor tried to keep the horse away from the fence, but it was a losing battle. When the sulky struck the fence, he was thrown on to the barbed wire and a fence post. Then he found himself wandering round on foot in a dazed condition. Mr. Newell soon came to the rescue, and sent him off to hospital to recover from his gashed face and broken ribs.

Somewhat later, a second, much quieter horse was purchased, which transported the pastor to and from Marburg for a considerable time.

Eventually this second horse was involved in a minor accident, in which the axle of the sulky was broken.

After this an old, Ford V8 car was purchased, which served the pastor well for a few months.

The voice

The manse stood next door to the church building, and was about a mile and a half north of the Lanefield railway station. The house was all right in the dry weather, the drawback being that it had a ‘valley roof ’, and during spells of wet weather, that valley used to leak. For many months a row of tubs and buckets stood together in the back room to catch the water. The pastor’s job was to climb on to the roof and cover all the nails in the valley with a bitumen paste.

This would hold for a week or two, then would have to be renewed. Before the pastor left, the whole roof was taken off and re-erected with a single peak.

The Christian Endeavour Society at Lanefield was one of the bright spots of the work. At the ‘break-ups’ at the end of each year, about 20 young people would gather at the manse for a Chinese meal. It is gratifying to know that many of these young people are still workers in the Rosewood Church today.

The pastor visited the Institution for Inebriates at Marburg regularly, trying to help the inmates, but without marked success. He also regularly visited the Ashwell and Calvert State Schools to give religious instruction. Two memorable occasions were the visits to Lanefield of Miss Monica Farrell, and of the Gospel Waggon, which was manned at that time

by Rev. J. W. Fletcher. There was at least one conversion from that visit.

Archivists meet in Melbourne The fourth meeting of the Australian Baptist Archivists took place in Melbourne on 15-16 November 2016 under the auspices of Australian Baptist Ministries. A special feature of this gathering was the presence, for the first time, of representatives from all states and territories (except Tasmania). Another feature was an excursion to Whitley College for discussions with the faculty about how archives can better serve researchers. An important topic on the agenda was digitisation of records and publications, along with how to grow and develop denominational and church archives. Privacy of records and information was another significant subject, while the South Australian delegates reported on their recent work in oral history. There were discussions about holding a Baptist Studies conference in the future, as well as helpful advice and assistance for a wide range of practical issues.

The voice of Qu

eenslan

Spread the word!

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Disciples mobili rg.au sed www.qb.o Global Interaction ... what’s next?

Marriage: ‘the other’ and ‘the same’

Do you pass on your copy of The qb after you’ve read it? Why not extend its reach and pass it on to a friend, take it when you visit someone, or leave it where it might be picked up and read. ndd qb_Jun-2016.i

1

8/06/2016

1:27 pm

Print post approv The Queensland ed ISSN: 100003837 Baptist - first This series Vol published in 1890.

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1

Or order extra copies to add to your welcome packs for visitors to your church. It’s a great resource for demonstrating what being a part of Queensland Baptists is all about. And if you have friends or acquaintances overseas, don’t forget they can read The qb online at qb.org. au/news-media/

Q CCC

QUEENSLAND CONFERENCE AND CAMPING CENTRES

DISCOVER QCCC TAMBORINE Situated in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland, we have 4 venues that would be perfect for hosting your next family camp, youth retreat or men’s and women’s getaways.

From delicious meals to comfortable accommodation, we have everything to provide your guests with a memorable experience.

Contact us now!

Check out our web page for new Guide Sheets on record keeping.

Baptist Church Archives archives@qb.org.au Phone 07 3354 5642, 07 3878 3178

ptists6 land Ba ly 201 June/Ju

of Queens

www.qccc.com.au bookings@tamborine.qccc.com.au 07 5545 1417

www.qb.

36

CARINITY

LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE From 27 February 2017, consumers will have more choice, control and flexibility in their provider of home care services. Government funding for home care will now follow the consumer.

This will allow you to choose a provider that is suited to your needs.

You will also be able to change providers if you move to another area to live, or are looking for a better fit.

At Carinity, we make it easy to switch providers. All you need to do is call us, and we will do all the paperwork for you, including contacting your current provider, on your behalf.

Our goal is to ensure that you are living the life you love. We want you to continue to enjoy what’s important to you. We pride ourselves on knowing our clients, and our clients knowing us. Our commitment starts with understanding what your dreams and aspirations are, what you enjoy doing, and taking away any concerns or worries. We want you to get on with living life straight away, so leave the hard work to us!

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Five Reasons to choose Carinity Home Care: 1. You have a dedicated lifestyle coordinator: once you’re a client of Carinity, you can directly contact your locally-based lifestyle coordinator, and they will get back to you. We also conduct face-toface meetings in your home or at our office.

2. Your partner and family are always welcome: while your funding is for your care and support, we understand that your partner and family are part of your life too. If both you and your partner love going to the movies, the lifestyle carer can take both of you.

3. We make your money go further: our lifestyle coordinators are always striving to give you everything you need out of your budget. If you want more social activities, we will do our best to find low-cost or free options, so you’re only paying for the transport to events. If you love the movies, we will always find ways to get you the cheapest tickets. If you want mobility aids, we can

have discussions with vendors to make sure you get the best price.

4. Your choice of carer: we understand that having someone come into your home requires trust. We make sure you have two consistently rostered regular carers, so there is always a familiar face.

5. We are always flexible: we understand life happens. If you have an emergency or want to change the services from week to week, we can do this. You can also change your allocated activity on the day. If your carer was supposed to clean, but you’d just rather go out and have a coffee … no problem!

We’re here to help. If you’re looking for assistance at home, or looking for a new provider to better meet your needs, we can take you through the process, step-by-step. Simply call 1300 109 109 or visit homecare.carinity.org. au today to continue to live the life you love, in the home you’ve always loved. www.carinity.org.au

RETIRED BLOKES

37

MAKING THE REST OF YOUR LIFE THE BEST OF YOUR LIFE I live within a few minutes’ drive of probably the most expensive real estate in Queensland. There are hundreds of apartments that cost their owners well over $2 million each. If I drive there, I pass a Rolls Royce dealer, a BMW dealer, a Volvo dealer, and any number of luxury motor vehicles along the road.

This is a place where the good life is on display, every day.

To the east is the Pacific Ocean that meets long stretches of white sands. To the west is the hinterland with great bush walks, waterfalls and fudge shops.

This is the Gold Coast, where thousands of Australian and overseas visitors come to enjoy the surf, sand, scenery and theme parks. This is a place where people come to have fun and enjoy a time of rest and relaxation. And this is the place where so many people want to retire, to extend their holiday into a complete lifestyle to last them through their final years.

But too many times, when they retire here, the holiday feeling evaporates after only a short time. They suddenly realise they left their friends behind, and sometimes family as well, and all they have left is loneliness and depression.

Their Surfers Paradise dream becomes a living hell.

that the highest per capita suicide rate in Australia is now amongst retired men.

It’s higher than the 20-year-olds who once led these statistics, and by the time men reach their 80s it’s higher than any other age bracket.

So can the church do something about it? I believe we can … and we are.

Recently, Warren Heck (a friend of mine from Kruger Parade Baptist Church) was visiting us in Southport and together we came up with the idea of retiredblokes. com, a website where men can find positive messages, ideas and suggestions, just for them. A site where men can post their own stories about their struggles and victories. We are also planning to put in a ‘pray for me’ button so that men can find support through the power of prayer. We want the website to be like an online men’s shed but one that is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Can you help us get the message out to the world that retiredblokes.com exists?

All you need to do is to find a story on

our website that you like, or think a retired friend might like, and share the link on Facebook or Twitter, or both. If you don’t know how to do that, fill in the contact form at retiredblokes.com and we’ll email you step by step instructions.

Of course, you could use old fashioned, face-to-face communication and tell everybody you meet, and perhaps even show them how to find us online.

I believe this ministry might just be the greatest ministry I have ever been involved in, and will potentially reach more people than I ever reached in my 25 years of ministry in Baptist churches in Queensland. After less than 20 days of operating, and without any advertising that we exist, we had already reached more than 800 people. That’s more people than the attendance at any church I’ve served in!

Ken O’Rourke, previously a QB pastor, is now retired. retiredblokes1@gmail.com

Now don’t get me wrong—I love living here! I love being retired here! But for many others, the dream retirement is a long nightmare. I’ve heard stories of men sitting on the end of their beds at night, in tears. So it is no surprise to me

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

38

GLOBAL INTERACTION

THE CHALLENGES FACING CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY IN 2017 Many Christian missions are facing new challenges today; challenges not seen in years past. The world has changed so much, even since the 80s and 90s. Across the globe, church leaders are realising we have entered what is being described as the ‘post-Christian’ era. With the rise of militants among other religions, Western cross-cultural workers are not as welcome in many places. For the security and safety of those overseas, the use of words and terms that once were common can no longer be used in international correspondence.

There are other challenges facing cross-cultural missions, and Global Interaction, our Australian Baptist mission organisation, is no exception.

Baptists have always desired to share their faith in Jesus Christ with those who have never heard the good news.

In fact, Baptist churches (among Protestant denominations) have long been the main contributors of personnel, funds and prayer to missions.

This trend continues as Baptists serve with both denominational and non-denominational ministries.

Today Baptist churches in Australia contribute more personnel to ‘medium’ (between six months and two years) and ‘long term’ (more than two years) missions than any other Australian denomination (NCLS Fact Sheet, Church attenders on Missions Trips, 2014). Baptists have been strongly ‘missions-minded’ with FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

churches and colleges enthusiastically supporting Baptist missionary candidates in prayer, finances and training. This is most encouraging as we send and support new crosscultural workers and read of lives being changed as, slowly but surely, people in least-reached parts of the world are coming to Jesus.

A challenge for Queensland Baptists in 2017 is for the three Queensland candidate families to be in their country of calling by early 2018. Each family is currently raising their team of prayer and financial supporters to enable them to move to the locations to which God has called them:

• Tristan and Megan are preparing to join the Global Interaction team in Cambodia

• Rev Jean-Claude is the pastor of the All Nations Revival Church at Logan. Jean-Claude and Joyce are preparing to join Tim and Mel in Milawi, just as soon as they raise their support

• ‘Daz and Bee’ are studying at Malyon College as they equip themselves for cross-cultural ministry in South East Asia.

Here at Global Interaction we are seeking individuals and churches who will team with these families to help them on their way. All candidates are available to speak at churches, in home groups, to youth, at men’s breakfasts and ladies’ coffee events. Likewise, as Queensland Director, I am available to meet with pastors and church missions’ co-ordinators to discuss how your church can interact with Global Interaction.

Will you take up the challenge in 2017? You can contact our Queensland office by calling 3354 5603, or email me.

Bob Rogers, State Director qld@globalinteraction.org.au www.globalinteraction.org.au

Thank you very much … you came to help us in Tiburon and saw our needs.

BWAA

39

FINDING SAFETY THROUGH THE STORM In the early hours of 4 October 2016, Hurricane Matthew made landfall on Haiti. Imagine living through that terror. Howling 230 kmph winds screaming through your neighbourhood, destroying everything in their path.

This is Laurita’s story.

‘We had never had a storm that big before. The whole house started to shake … I was very afraid as all the debris was flying around … As a mother, I was very much afraid for my children … they were screaming and crying. I held them as tight as I could, covered them with my own body while lying flat on the ground. I thought that I am not strong enough … the fear of losing them kept me going on’.

Laurita and her seven children live in the remote coastal town of Tiburon, where Hurricane Matthew first made landfall in one of the poorest areas. ‘Our life has always been hard, even before Matthew.’ But since Hurricane Matthew decimated her town, the fight to survive has become even harder. Thankfully, Laurita and her children made it through Hurricane Matthew. ‘I fled with my children to a nearby neighbour, whose house was more protected.’ But the roof of their own home was claimed by the hurricane. And with no roof to protect their belongings, they lost

everything. ‘All my kitchen stuff, all my clothes and the little money I had … were all gone … We all knew that without any help from outside we will be lost … we thought, “we will die”’.

When Hurricane Matthew hit Tiburon, Baptist World Aid Australia responded immediately, thanks to the support of Australians who faithfully give to the Disaster Action Fund. Because of this generosity, the community of Tiburon received urgently needed emergency relief—like food for hungry families and water and hygiene kits to keep them safe from the spread of deadly diseases like Cholera.

Laurita even received a shelter kit and basic tools like saws, pliers and a crowbar. Now she can give her family a safe home again! ‘We are really, really happy with this assistance … It has been a relief.’

If you would like to give the gift of safety to mums (like Laurita) and their children, or find out how your support can save lives before, during and after disaster, go to: baptistworldaid.org.au/ disaster-action.

Source: Medair, 2016.

Samara Linehan Communications Coordinator Baptist World Aid Australia

Brisbane: A World Made Right— Catalyst Launch 2017 God has given us a vision of a world made right—where poverty and injustice have ended and all people enjoy the fullness of life He intends. As God’s people, we have the privilege of working with Him to make this vision a reality.

In 2017, Baptist World Aid’s churchbased advocacy program—Catalyst— will equip you and your church to advocate for a world made right; a world where communities and nations have the resources to lift themselves out of poverty, where workers in developing countries are free from exploitation, and where children are not working to farm the cocoa we enjoy.

At the Baptist World Aid Catalyst Launch, you’ll be inspired and equipped to take powerful and meaningful action to help end global poverty, slavery and injustice.

We hope to see you there!

Saturday 25th February 10:00am-12:30pm Gateway Baptist Church (1052 Mount Gravatt Capalaba Rd, Mackenzie QLD) Register: baptistworldaid.org.au/catalystlaunch-2017/

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

40

THINKSPOT

DAYLIGHT EVENTUALLY COMES I struggled to take it all in.

My friend John patiently said it again, ‘There was more information about your mother than you knew’.

I looked at him blankly.

He sighed. ‘If things had been properly done, she may not have died.’

The awful truth enveloped me like an empty parachute settling over my head, making it hard to breathe.

‘I can see it is hard to understand.

I’ll come back soon and give you the details.’ And just like that he was gone.

John is a good friend and I believed him, and as an ex-nurse, I trusted him medically. But I struggled to hear what he had to say. More information, he’d said. What did that mean? What’s more, my mother had died of breast cancer so long ago. Decades.

My rational brain tried to catch up, and I attempted to reason my way

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

through it. Of course, this makes no difference I reminded myself. It happened. There is nothing I can do. It’s over. God walked beside me all these years, and I can lean on Jim through this too.

the information. As young teens, my sister and I were told very little and kept in the dark. With all the best intentions, we were left in a space of not knowing.

I waited for John to return, trying to make polite conversation with the people I knew in the room. But I wasn’t comfortable sharing this devastating news with them. Not yet.

The dream seeped into reality. In a half-asleep stupor, nothing made sense and I dozed in and out of a fitful sleep—too upset to rest; too weary to do anything but lie there. I knew that eventually, daylight would come.

My mind raced. Would Mum have lived if we had known? Would she have died by now anyway? Why do I have to wait to find out about this information John had? Where was he anyway?

This is the worst thing about grief: When it feels like you have finally got it out of your system, then at the most unexpected moments it comes up behind you, and clutches your heart.

Again.

I gasped, and woke up with a jolt. It was 5 am, and still dark.

Death was never meant to be part of our lives—and intuitively we know it.

Before their sin, Adam and Eve had access to the Tree of Life (Genesis 2:9), and death was not originally intended for them. So, it is not surprising that deep within we all scream, ‘Death is not fair! It’s not right!’ Because it isn’t.

It’s all wrong. It grates against us with its ragged teeth gnashing.

It was a relief to realise it was all a dream, but I struggled to breathe normally. Disturbed. Upset. I lay there, my heart beating fast, my emotions continuing to wash over me. It had felt so real, so perplexing. It is true—when Mum died of cancer, I didn’t have all

THINKSPOT

I have chosen over the years not to allow my mother’s death to harden me. It is difficult at times, but I want to remain soft and pliable, not just for myself but for those close to me, especially my children. It hurts to lean into the grief and roll with it, and it is easy to put up self-protective barriers.

But I know hardness brings bitterness, and that’s not where I want to go.

Instead, I have chosen a path of encouragement, life and blessing.

Every day, both when my children were little and now as young adults, I asked God to teach me how to do

it. How to do this motherhood job when I have no mother to impart her wisdom to me. Like many people, I have gaps in my knowledge—the things my mother never taught me.

For each gap, I asked God what to do: survival when sleep-deprived; weaning a baby; keeping my cool when everything went wrong; growing great teens. Then there are many things my mother never knew, so in reality she couldn’t have taught me! Some of those would be doing life as a ministry family; managing family/technology balance; and life within a step-family.

41

I must admit though, the biggest and most enduring learning curve is growing my ability to understand grief and death. This suffering, this tragedy, this living of life after my mother’s death, is the refining gift that changes me.

I have learnt that God walks with me closely and shows me a path through it all (Psalm 119:105). He is no stranger to suffering (Psalm 42:9-11). He leads my steps, and holds my hand.

The ragged and rough elements of my suffering smooth over dark and ugly places. The stress and pressure squeeze out the dross, and refine me (1 Peter 1:6-8) into someone with more compassion, more kindness, more love for the broken and hurting. Staying soft to death and its horrors, hands me life in all its richness. Such paradox.

To allow Mum’s death to harden me would be its victory. But God brought Jesus to life again. There is such a thing as life after death after all. It’s called resurrection.

All these years later, my mother’s death still shapes me, as my recent dream shows. I know deep down, I still treasure her. But thankfully her death doesn’t hold me. Jesus does.

The road is dark, sometimes. Often it feels like an endless tunnel. But if I keep on pushing through, if I keep on pressing into the dark, I know this to be true: daylight eventually comes.

Jenny Baxter and her husband Stephen attend Hobart Baptist Church where Stephen is the Senior Pastor. The have five children, with one still at home.

Jenny is (at last) answering God’s call to share more of her experiences, and you can read her blog at treasuringmothers. com.au or jennybaxter.com.au. Stephen and Jenny Baxter are guest speakers at QB Convention, 4–7 April.

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

42

CRI

CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION

What’s happening?

Every week during school terms, hundreds, if not thousands, of members of local churches go into local state schools to provide Christian Religious instruction (CRI) l to participating students. For many children in our state schools, CRI lessons may be the only opportunity they have to explore the teachings of the Bible, learn about the Christian faith and connect regularly with a follower of Christ.

Religious Instruction in our local schools has often been a

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

‘Cinderella Ministry’ in many church congregations. It happens during the week, outside of our church properties, and can be hard work, despite the joy it brings!

Queensland Government Legislation has approved the teaching of Religious Instruction in state schools since a referendum was held in 1910, and it has been valued in school communities since then. CRI is happening in small and large schools statewide.

A recent survey carried out by the Qld Christian Religious Instruction

Network (QCRIN) has shown that where the program is offered at schools, 70% of parents choose to place their children in CRI. The 2016 review of the Connect curriculum and subsequent media coverage have provided a great opportunity for Queensland Baptists and other denominations to reflect on the value they place on CRI, and has highlighted the need for members of local churches to engage with what is already happening in schools down the street, around the state and across the nation.

CRI

Instructors are drawn from a variety of Christian denominations and local churches. Each instructor must hold a current Qld Government Blue Card, be accredited by their local church leadership, and be approved by the school principal. CRI instructors are provided with curriculum developed by educational professionals and authorised by their local church leaders. Local ministers, area coordinators and school coordinators oversee the implementation of CRI in many areas around our state.

Instructors receive annual schoolbased training. Denominations and districts offer training opportunities to inspire, encourage, resource and equip those ministering to children in their local churches and communities. One example of this is the annual IGNITE Conference (to be held in Brisbane on the 4 March) which offers Fired Up, a specific stream for CRI instructors: visit www.igniteexpo.org.au for details.

CRI is usually a weekly lesson available for students from year one upwards. The program reinforces the Education Qld core values of respect, tolerance, inclusion, integrity, freedom, compassion and caring. The programs include storytelling, drama, interactive discussions, music, games and craft.

Through their CRI lessons the children have a chance to: • Explore Bible stories and the history, geography and culture of the times • Discuss Christian beliefs which have helped shape our nation • Discover what the Bible says about God and the life and teachings of Jesus

• Learn to value and respect their own and others’ beliefs • Develop positive values and choices.

The Qld Christian Religious Instruction Network (QCRIN) is made up of CRI coordinators and instructors. This network assists with the communication and implementation of Qld Education Department policy and guidelines, promotes training opportunities, and keeps CRI teams informed on matters related to the effective, best practice delivery of CRI. Members of the CRI Network are also working with heads of churches and other interested parties to ensure that CRI has a bright future in Queensland.

I would like to thank those pastors who responded to the QB Kids’ RI survey in 2016. The information gained will help us to gain a clearer picture of Baptist engagement with Religious Instruction programs in state schools across Queensland and also help in compiling a database of RI involvement both within our denomination and around the state.

The QB Kids’ Team and members of the QCRIN encourage church leaders and local congregations to support the CRI programs operating in your local area through: • Prayer • Donations towards the purchase of curriculum • Supporting CRI instructors in your midst • Encouraging Christians to GO into your local schools and share the teachings of the Bible with the children through CRI.

43

Many parents elect to have their children receive instruction in the Christian faith in our state schools.

As Christians, we all have the responsibility to pass on the teachings of the Bible to the next generation.

Do you have a heart for children? Do you have some spare time in your week? Would you be willing to be trained to go into our schools and share the teachings of the Bible with the children? If so, contact QB Kids or your local CRI Coordinator and they will help you to join one of our local CRI teams. You will be blessed!

Julie Terry QB Kids Team member (RI contact), QCRIN member

If you would like to find out more about becoming an CRI instructor, training opportunities or the operation of the CRI program in your area, please contact Julie Terry, mob 0428 289 213 or email dandjterry@gmail.com

Related information: • To access a copy of the recent 2016 Department of Education Review go to http://education.qld. gov.au/schools/school-operations/ docs/report-connect-materials.pdf • Eternity article related to the 2016 Review into Connect materials https://www.eternitynews.com. au/in-depth/a-win-for-religiousinstruction-in-queensland/

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

44

PERSECUTION BRIEF

PLEASE PRAY! ‘215 Million Christians experience high levels of persecution’ North Korea, Pakistan, Syria and Iraq have all been named as some of the countries where Christians face the worst persecution in the world, in an annual report from Open Doors Australia. The report titled the ‘World Watch List’ ranks the top 50 countries where persecution is worst and this year a figure has also been placed on the number of Christians persecuted in these countries.

‘Of the top 50 countries on the list, at least 215 million Christians experience high levels of persecution,’ says Mike Gore, CEO of Open Doors Australia.

‘While there are definitely more in other countries, of the 215 million noted in the report, over 100 million of these Christians live in Asia.’

The list published annually has this year seen the top ten places given too: 1. North Korea 2. Somalia 3. Afghanistan 4. Pakistan 5. Sudan 6. Syria 7. Iraq 8. Iran 9. Yemen 10. Eritrea There has also been a significant shift in this year’s findings on the report as several Asian countries have risen in the list.

‘Over the last few years we have seen consistently high levels of persecution in predominately Islamic countries.

But this year we have also seen a major increase in the levels of persecution in

FEB/MAR 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

India, Vietnam, Laos and Bangladesh.

Overall it is becoming more difficult to be a Christian in more countries.’

The rankings for the ‘World Watch List’ are determined by a survey filled out either by Christians in the country or experts familiar with the situation.

It takes into account both the violence and oppression faced by Christians. Full rankings and profiles on each of the countries on the list, can be found on the Open Doors Australia website, www. opendoors.org.au.

Photos—Open Doors Source: OPEN DOORS SUDAN AND SOUTH SUDAN Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is calling on the governments of Sudan and South Sudan to honour their commitments under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), by withdrawing unauthorised security personnel from the area and facilitating a referendum in accordance with agreed international stipulations.

According to the CPA that ended the Sudanese civil war, a referendum on the future of the oil-rich region of Abyei should have occurred in tandem with South Sudan’s referendum on independence. The vote would allow the residents of Abyei to choose between remaining part of Sudan or joining South Sudan.

While the South Sudan plebiscite took place on 9 January 2011, the Abyei referendum was postponed due to ongoing disagreements between the Khartoum government and South Sudan over voter eligibility. Sudan claimed the nomadic Arab Misseriya tribe, which

accesses certain pasture lands in Abyei for part of each year, should be accorded full voting rights. However, according to the CPA’s Abyei Protocol and an international ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), only the Ngok Dinka tribe and permanent residents may vote.

As the delay continued, on 31 October 2013, the Ngok Dinka General Conference organised an unofficial vote, the ‘Peoples Referendum’, in which 98% of registered Ngok Dinka voters participated, and which resulted in a 99.9% vote in favour of joining South Sudan. However, Khartoum, Juba, the African Union and the international community refused to recognise the outcome of the vote.

Six years on, and a referendum on Abyei has still not been held. Meanwhile both Sudan and South Sudan have made claims on the region. On 3 January, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ibrahim Ghandour said the region belonged to Sudan in response to comments made by the South Sudanese Foreign Minister, Deng Alor, who is from Abyei, and who had said the region belonged with South Sudan. According to the UN Secretary General’s report of October 2016 on Abyei, 120 to 150 ‘oil police’ from Sudan remained in the Diffra oil complex and elements of the Sudan’s Peoples Liberation Army (SPLA) were present in the region in violation of temporary arrangements made by the two nations regarding the administration and security of Abyei Area signed in 2011.

The mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), the peacekeeping mission in region, has been extended until 15 May 2017.

Source: CSW

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CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to Ken & Yvonne Jackson (nee Castle) who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on 2 February 2017. The couple was married at Greenslopes Baptist Church (the bride’s home church) by Rev George McKechnie.

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ACCOMMODATION BRISBANE: House available as a ministry for missionaries and church workers on the move. Three bedrooms, fully furnished, everything provided. Bus stop at the door. Minimal rent. Email: gtho4536@bigpond.net.au CALOUNDRA - GOLDEN BEACH: Highset three bedroom holiday home. Weekends or weekly. Pets OK. Close to beach. Phone 0402 077 822 or lizottaway15@gmail.com.

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