The qb, October 2016

The voice of Queensland Baptists October/November 2016

Put simply After Cyclone Winston We are His house Print post approved ISSN: 100003837 The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890.

This series Vol 14 Issue 5.

www.qb.org.au

QB MINISTRIES 26

Helping build Baptist churches (Baplink)

27

Ethnic training meets a growing need (The Training Collaborative)

28

Have you started to dig your Bible?

(QB Youth)

29

Out and about (QB Kids & their families)

30

She is... behind the scenes (QB Women)

34

32

Good times, then and now (QCCC)

34

Put simply... (MTQ)

36

Stats-again! (QB archives)

38

Helping to break the cycle of family violence (Carinity)

29

QB PARTNERS 24

Global Interaction

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30

Little book... big ideas (BWAA)

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE 04 07 08 10

Comment: David Loder Knowing God Series Speaking out: John Sweetman Baptisms

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Around the regions Mission of hope Milestones New registration process for Queensland Baptist Pastors

Our cover: Jelly Zahau and Lege Yanga were among the nine leaders of QB ethnic churches who graduated with their Diplomas of Christian Ministry in early August. The graduation was a colourful time of celebration and thanksgiving.

See TCC’s article on page 27.

42 44 45 46

Persecution brief Reviews Fun zone Classifieds

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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COMMENT

WE ARE HIS HOUSE ‘But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory’ (Hebrews 3:6).

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So where does God live? I baulk when, on a Sunday, I hear people say, ‘Welcome to God’s house today’.

God’s house has never been a building.

Actually, the early church did not even meet in buildings for the first period of its history. The Bible makes it quite clear that we (people) are the dwelling place of God. One is inclined to ask, ‘How much at home does God feel in our lives?’ But we can also ask, ‘How much does anyone feel at home

when they are with the gathered local church?’ QB responses in both the 2005 and the 2011 NCLS Surveys* prioritised building a strong sense of community within the congregation as something needing attention in the coming 12 months. When it came to a sense of belonging, 54% described it as ‘strong and growing’ and another 22% described it as ‘strong and stable’.

Those figures seem quite healthy, but the feeling was there was room for

COMMENT improvement—and it was needed soon—in the next 12 months.

So what does it mean to have a strong sense of community in the local church? Obviously, it does mean that we feel connected, but what that means can vary from person to person, depending on personality and expectations. To know people’s names and have people know my name is important. To know some details about each other adds to this. Things like where we live, family members and occupations also help to put people into their context. Connecting on social media adds another perspective as does having each other’s phone numbers in our contacts list.

Connecting beyond Sundays adds yet another layer, such as sharing meals in each other’s homes or going out together on some social event.

A deeper friendship takes place when one is in need and the other is there to assist: times of illness or unemployment; times of relationship breakdowns; or any kind of stress. It is in times like these that we value those who are willing to walk part of the journey with us. And we are honoured when someone trusts us enough that they have the freedom to share their life’s story with us.

There is yet another layer of great importance and that is sharing on a spiritual level. Being together in a small group of some type, a ministry group or home group, allows the mutual expression of one’s relationship with Jesus as the group shares together and prays for one another.

It is important for a person to have a sense of belonging within a community. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can, in extreme cases, literally ‘push people over the

edge’. There are different levels of relationship and connectedness that range from the casual acquaintance to the deep life-long friendship. It is not possible to have meaningful relationships with everyone. We will find it difficult to connect with some people, just as some people will find us difficult. Having said that, the easiest thing in the world is to look people in the eye, smile and say ‘G’day’ to them. Try it this Sunday and see what response you get! Remember that Jesus said the distinguishing mark of discipleship is how we connect with each other (John 13:34-35).

Ministry Matters The countdown to Christmas is on.

Decorations, and the like, are for sale in department stores. It has been a busy year! The end is in sight. People are tired. With tiredness comes emotions. It is not a good time to

*Millions of people from co-operating denominations have participated in the National Church Life Survey (NCLS). Research aims include studying Australian spirituality, church health, effective and sustainable leadership, and the connections between church and community.

Now the world’s largest longitudinal study of church life, the 2016 survey (now underway) marks a 25-year milestone for the NCLS.

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introduce new things into the church.

One of my mentors once highlighted for me the need to take things steady now. Don’t slacken off, keep going, the break is not too far away. Encourage those who have exams and support those who will be moving on to new ventures. Cheer on those who will be there to do it again in the coming year.

Enjoy!

The NCLS survey will happen in the next few months. I encourage you to participate. It will be of benefit to your church leaders as they shape ministry for the coming period of time. In the meantime—continue to love one another!

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

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NEWS, VIEWS & ISSUES

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

FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to this issue of The qb which includes a wide variety of content from our churches, QB ministries and ministry partners that will inform and uplift you.

I like the photo of those who attended the Women in Pastoral Ministry Retreat on Magnetic Island recently (Around the regions). It’s plain to see how relaxed and happy these women were to be together, and it’s clear that they were truly blessed by their fellowship. And while on the subject of blessing women, She is … behind the scenes acknowledges all the wonderful women who worked hard to bring this year’s round of events to the 600 women who attended. Thank you!

We’re pleased to include a date claimer for QB Convention 2017.

Of particular interest to most readers will be Leadership Day on Friday 7

April. It’s not just for leaders! Anyone is welcome to attend, participate in electives and to hear our guest speakers, Stephen and Jenny Baxter.

Finally, while I’m not a big fan of red dirt when it’s tracked in on the carpet (yes, there is plenty of it where I live!), don’t miss Put simply … which is all about Simple Church and Red Dirt Church. It reminds us that we must seek new ways to effectively communicate the gospel in our local communities, finding ways to ‘reinterpret church in a way that will make the Body of Christ a consistently valuable part of life in Australia’.

I trust you will enjoy reading this issue of The qb.

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

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.

Deadline for advertisement and copy: 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053 P 07 3354 5633 F 07 3354 5646 Advertising rates are listed in The qb Media Kit available at www.qb.org.au/news-media. Prices are also available on enquiry and advertising packages can be tailored to suit your budget. Reduced contract rates apply to three bookings within a 12 month period. Please contact us for details. A limited number of inserts are also accepted.

Copyright © 2003 by Queensland Baptist Services Group.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means without written permission from the publisher.

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

by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

ISSN: 11323-7829

Advertise in The qb

It’s affordable and effective!

For pricing and details contact Lisa Hamilton P 07 3354 5600 lisa.hamilton@qb.org.au

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne Qld 4051 PO Box 6166, Mitchelton Qld 4053 P 07 3354 5600 F 07 3354 5646 admin@qb.org.au

KNOWING GOD

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DISCIPLESHIP:

TIME FOR ACTION

PART FIVE

Discipleship in an ethnic context At my last Intentional Discipleship Making Conference, Ps Edmund Chan shared that intentional discipleship should be a priority, whether your group is growing or whether it is not.

In fact, in some parts of the world where significant numbers are coming to Christ, intentional discipleship is a major need. In contrast, if you do not see people coming to Christ, and not many people are interested in following Jesus, discipleship should also be a priority. This article shows that, amongst ethnic groups in Australia, one of the best discoveries and achievements of the Western mission movement— contextualisation—is very important.

Though contextualisation is widely used and effectively practised in the mission fields overseas, it is also very important in Australia.

The word ethnic is derived from the Greek word Ethnos which was used to define a larger group of people, which could be a nation, a host of men, a band of comrades, or a body of persons united by kinship, culture and common traditions.1 It is a group of people that is held together by customs. This word was also used in defining narrower groups of people such as foreigners, heathens or pagans. It is defining a smaller group of people that could be identified by distinctive features within a larger community. The minority meaning of the word ‘ethnic’ prevailed over time and, today, the word ‘ethnic’ is used to define a group of people that

has a distinct language or race, culture or country of origin within a prevailing or host culture. An ethnic group consists of people who share a consciousness that they are the same kind of people because they have common ancestors, share a history, and are linked by ties of descent and marriage.2 In the Bible, the Jews saw all non-Jews as ‘ta ethne’, ‘the peoples’ or ‘the nations’, and saw them as being unclean and far from God.3 In the New Testament, the plural ‘ethne’ is used in approximately 100 passages in the plural sense, meaning people group in general, distinct from Jews.4 The ministry of Jesus and the redemptive history clearly demonstrates God’s heart towards all the nations, Jews and non-Jews. This is particularly emphasised in the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 where the command is to take the gospel to ‘all the nations’ that appears in the Greek as ‘panta ta ethne’ and is the only formal imperative in the Greek where the word ‘ethne’ is used. Jesus’ order to His disciples is (1) to baptise the ‘ethne’; and (2) to teach the ‘ethne’.

‘Panta ta ethne’ of Matthew 28:1920 has been widely discussed among Christian scholars and missiologists. The singular ‘ethnos’ never refers to a Gentile individual, but rather to people group or a nation.5 John Piper, in his article, argues that, unlike the singular, the plural form of ‘ethnos’ does not always refer to people groups, and can imply people groups or Gentile individuals.6

However, the combination of the singular ‘ethnos’ meaning people group, and the usage of nine out of 10 ‘panta ta ethne’ referring to Gentile groups rather than individuals, leans heavily towards the view that Matthew 28:19 focuses on ‘all the nations’ rather than individuals.

Hans Weerstra, in his article states: ‘The Lord is not commanding mass evangelism in general, indiscriminate of the ethnographic cultural and language heritage of the people to be discipled or evangelized.’ 7 According to Weerstra, since ‘ethne’ is the object of the imperative, groups of people need to be discipled, not just individuals without regard to their cultures. Weerstra concludes that the task of making disciples of all the ‘ethne’ always needs to occur in terms of distinguishing the features of each group of people, including their language, cultural heritage, and even in terms of the boundaries of their habitations.8 Hence, if you want to be good at disciple making in an ethnic context, (whether you are ethnic or not) factors that makes an ethnic group ethnic should not be excluded, provided that they are not unbiblical.

Rev Emil Rahimov Regional Consultant & Ethnic and Multicultural Ministries Coordinator emil.rahimov@qb.org.au

1. William Arndt, Frederick W. Danker, and Walter Bauer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), p. 276–277 2. Paul Hiebert, Eloise Hiebert Meneses, Incarnational Ministry: Planting Churches in Band, Tribal, Peasant, and Urban Societies (1995) 30.

3. K.L. Schmidt, “Ethnos in the N.T.” in G. Kittel (ed.) Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1968) Vol II, pp. 369-372.

4. Some of the passages are Matthew 6:32; Luke 12:30; Matthew 10:5-6; Matthew 20:19; Acts 14:16; Ephesians 2:11-12.

5. John Piper, “Descipling All The Peoples”, Perspectives, 3rd ed. (California, William Carey Library, 1999) p. 113.

6. Piper, p. 114.

OCT/NOV 7. Hans Weerstra, “Mission To The Nations: A Biblical Word Study of Ethnos,” International Journal of Frontier Missions, Vol 9:3 (July 1992): p 100.

8. Weerstra, p. 100.

2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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SPEAKING OUT

CHURCH INTERNSHIPS ARE GROWING An important role of Christian leaders is to discern what God is doing and to get people on board. This is so much better than getting a great idea and then trying to get God, and everyone else, on board. I know this appears obvious, but it’s not always our modus operandi.

We try to practise this at the Malyon Centre for Christian Leadership. We’re constantly looking for ways in which God is effectively developing leaders, in order to help churches tap into what God is doing … which brings me to the topic of this article.

A recent leadership development innovation, in quite a few churches in Queensland, has been the introduction of ministry internships.

The concept has been around forever, but it seems that God is particularly energising it at the moment. So as Director of Malyon Leadership, I have spent time analysing and evaluating what is happening with a view to helping other churches take advantage of what God is blessing. This article contains some of my preliminary observations. There will be more to follow for churches that are interested.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

An intern is someone with leadership potential who a church has selected to invest in more intentionally. An intern commits to: • A certain amount of time each week to do ministry • Some form of equipping • Being mentored or supervised • A period of time (often 12 months) The church commits to: • Providing supervision and mentoring • Providing ministry opportunities • Ensuring that the intern is equipped If you look at these criteria, you will quickly see that this is just what Jesus (and multiple other biblical leaders) did. Jesus called interns and invested in them so that they were equipped to be leaders in the early church.

From my research so far (I’ve only looked at six churches), there appears to be three main models of internship offered by Queensland Baptist churches. Of course, there is overlap, but here is a brief description of each.

Internship Model A is usually targeted at young adults. Anyone can nominate, and often large numbers can be accommodated, but the church/ organisation still vets the applicants to ensure they are suitable for the program. The interns are placed in ministry situations that suit their gifts and experience, and are provided with intentional supervision and mentoring.

They need to complete an organised equipping program, and will often also be involved in a mission trip together, so there is a social dimension to the developmental program. The goal is to provide the interns with a strong leadership foundation, and prepare them for a lifetime of effectively serving God wherever that may be.

The interns will usually contribute financially to the costs of running the program and mission experiences.

Examples: Malyon LAUNCH program fits this model as does Gateway Baptist’s 12-month internship program. Bridgeman Baptist has a shortened form of Internship Model A called ‘Immerse’ that targets young adults, and operates over the Christmas holidays.

SPEAKING OUT

Examples: Churches that I am aware of running Internship Model B internships include Bracken Ridge Baptist and Lifepointe Baptist.

In 2017, they will be joined by Northreach Baptist and Life Point (Baptist).

Gateway Baptist interns Internship Model B is the most common form of internship in our churches. It does not demand the structural organisation of Internship Model A. In Internship Model B programs, churches mainly choose the interns. If there is some form of application process, it is more selective than Internship Model A. Churches are looking for high-quality leaders or potential leaders in which they want to invest significant resources, with a view to equipping them more effectively for future church leadership. Age is not an issue. As for Internship Model A, the interns are placed in ministries and provided with supervision, but they usually take on higher profile roles with more responsibility and greater access to the pastoral/leadership team. Most of these internships have a formal study component through a Bible college. In some Internship Model B programs, churches offer a small financial compensation for the interns’ time, but in most they are volunteers. Some graduating interns will join pastoral teams. Many will continue in parttime ministries or volunteer church leadership roles.

Internship Model C is targeted at future pastors. The church invites people they see as called by God to vocational ministry to join the pastoral team as pastoral interns. They take on significant leadership responsibilities, and are required to commence or to continue formal theological study. The supervision and support are similar to Internship Model B, but the focus is on preparation for pastoral ministry, the time commitment is usually greater, and the interns receive a small wage. If all goes well, the intern will eventually become a fully-registered pastoral team member of a church.

Example: Bridgeman Baptist has employed pastoral interns for over 20 years.

Where to from here?

This article is a little more involved (boring?) than my usual fare. But I’m raising the concept of church interns in this format for a number of reasons.

1. My research is incomplete and I would like to know about every Queensland church that has interns. If you have interns (or have had interns), could you please let me know and I will send you a short questionnaire about your program.

2. I want to let all churches know what God is doing. Leadership development is often high on our priorities but low on our agenda.

We know that we will need leaders in the future and want to grow

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them, but there are immediate pressing needs that consume our time and energy, so we don’t get around to doing anything about it. Well, God has inspired quite a few churches to do more. I’m not sure I could say that internship programs are exploding, but they’re certainly growing. This is very exciting for someone like me who breathes leadership development, and I believe that it will reap great kingdom benefits.

3. Not all churches can offer Internship Model A (there are substantial resources involved) or Internship Model C (you need to have the right people and finances for more pastors), but it seems to me that an Internship Model B program is possible for any church. It’s a matter of deciding what you can offer, and asking suitable people to make the commitment. Malyon Leadership would be glad to help you set up an internship program if you would like some support.

A strong internship program will require effort; however, it will not only provide better leaders for the future, it will significantly increase ministry resources in the present.

If you’re presently a church intern, or are planning to join an internship program in 2017, I pray that God will grow you and equip you. I recognise that you are making significant sacrifices to develop as a Christian leader, but this investment is incredibly important for the future of God’s church and its impact on the world.

God bless you.

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

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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BAPTISMS

BAPTISMS Clayfield church family joined together to celebrate the baptism of Mikayla Champness at Shorncliffe on Sunday 18 September. Cold, wind and rain did not deter the joy shared by all as Pastor David conducted his daughter’s baptism, supported by youth leader Heidi Cheng. Kerry’s parents came from Newcastle for the occasion which was very special.

Please pray for those baptised recently in all our churches around Queensland, including: Birkdale Baptist Church Jessica Hua Todd Unthank Bundaberg Baptist Church Quin Harbison City North Baptist Church Rachel Bernasconi Taylah Rose Walker Ashley-Hope Walker Clayfield Baptist Church Mikayla Champness

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Baptism of Mikayla Champness at Shorncliffe

Cleveland Baptist Church Lisa Chelsom Gateway Baptist Church Ryan Acraman Jesse Bradford Tara Broughton Mark Brown Claudia De Git Michael De Lara Abby Hanna Jessica Huntington Lapicha John Jacques Laidlaw Jade Morrisby Courtney Phillips Joel Phillips Joshua Prevett Samuel Prevett Rodney Richards Caitlyn Wilken Greenslopes Baptist Church Amanda Carlowe New Heart Baptist Church Mitchell Laurens Madelle Niemann Northreach Baptist Church Claire Dearness Jennifer Doyle Edith Haih

Stephen Henning Katie Keam Kayleigh Lambert Hayley Lane Jacqueline Magwenjere Daniel Mahon Tina Man Lilibeth Mawhirt Jimmy Meadows Zoe Pearson Sarah Rowland Louise Thomas Fiona Thompson Daniel Tucker Martin Williams Salisbury Baptist Church Jesh Stone Stafford Heights Baptist Church Shaun van Dijk Toowong Baptist Church Jenny Chan Jeffrey Ho Irene Hui Bella Hung Alex Lam Cherry Lam Wing Sze Leung Florence Liu Graham Simpson

AROUND THE REGIONS

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AROUND THE REGIONS News from ‘The Tab’ May/June The City Tabernacle has sent out many missionaries over many years and took time over a fortnight in May/June this year to celebrate its small part in the Great Commission.

The church brought back long-term missionaries Bruce & Lee Haste (Panama), Dwight & Margaret Hartzler (Papua) and Jenny Austin (Wycliffe) to thank them for decades of unstinting service for the gospel, and to be part of a moving reunion with most living missionaries sent out by the church. Praying and supporting missions, including personal contact and reporting back, have been important disciplines in church life that continues with seven missionaries sent from the church serving today.

It was very special to have in the same room, at the same time, many faithful witnesses for God who have served Him in taking the gospel to so many different people and places: Elaine Bennett, Lois Brooks, Lenore Hadley, Bill Holm, Graeme & Dr Coral Johnson, Rev Neville Kirkwood,

Daphne Roberts, Rev Graham & Freda Roberts, Dr Joan Webster and Rev Joshua & Louise Williamson.

At the thanksgiving luncheon on 5 June, several missionaries shared about the blessings, both to the sent and to the senders, of this glorious mission partnership. A photo gallery of all missionaries and details of their service brought back so many memories and gratitude to God for His leading through many changing seasons in the church’s long history of missions endeavour. For anyone interested, a DVD of the thanksgiving service is available.

August The City Tabernacle has been blessed by a faithful servant in John Ivett, serving over some 40 years as deacon and multiple periods as secretary and as treasurer of the church, among many other roles. During the church’s 161st Anniversary in August, the church gave thanks to God for His blessings through John, and conveyed its gratitude to him and his wife, Glenys. Daphne Roberts, a long standing member, presented John with a framed picture of the church

and a minute of appreciation for his faithfulness as a servant of the Lord.

September Given its central location, the City Tabernacle is well placed to reach residents in the city area and has a special ministry devoted to this purpose—Towards4000, named after the city postcode. In September, Mark Redman was commissioned as Pastor to the City, a culmination of the hopes and prayers of the church for a pastor to minister specifically to people, right at its doorstep. Pastor Mark has been very successful in growing several ministries in a part-time capacity, and it was a delight to set apart a muchloved brother in Christ to this fulltime calling.

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AROUND THE REGIONS

L-R: Janelle Yeomans, Olivia Walton, Sharon Wardill, Linda Ballin, Cheryl Whyte, Barbara Henning

Inspiring Retreat in Paradise Janelle Yeomans (Whitsunday Baptist Church) writes: There is nothing quite like getting away for a weekend with a bunch of women. I find it is always inspiring, refreshing, and thought provoking, and the few days I spent with eight other women in September was no different. These, however, were no ordinary women. They happened to be the wives of my husband’s colleagues ... pastor’s wives, most of whom I did not know.

Some months back, Barbara Henning, wife of Pieter, QB Regional Consultant for North Queensland, set the wheels in motion for a ‘Women in Pastoral Ministry’ retreat for those of us here in the north. They say it is all about ‘location’, so one Friday afternoon in September we headed off on the ferry from Townsville, to beautiful Magnetic Island. Barbara wonderfully facilitated and organised everything for us—the food, accommodation, ferry, and program, for which we are truly grateful.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

We spent the weekend chatting, eating, reading, reflecting, praying, learning, and listening—among other things—and what a treat it was. Just being in the presence of other women in the same ‘boat’ was enough. We didn’t need to share our highlights and challenges of being pastors’ wives to feel like we could relate, although we briefly did. Knowing that we had the same honorary job description as each other was sufficient.

Barbara led us through readings and reflections on parts of the book of Proverbs, which was beneficial and stimulating, and God spoke into each of our lives from His Word. For me, ‘wisdom and understanding’ was one of the themes that stood out from Proverbs 2-5, and I was struck by how valuable both wisdom and understanding are, and how we need both. In Proverbs 4:7, the writer urges the reader to ‘get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.’

How beneficial this will be in our lives, is not to be underestimated, and whether we are pastors’ wives or not, we would all do well to not only seek wisdom, but also understanding. ‘The LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding’ Proverbs 2:6 (NIV).

Just hanging out together, walking along the beach, and chatting and sharing about life was an enriching experience, and we had the opportunity to share and hear stories of heartache and delight. Praying for each other was also an important part of our weekend, so much so that it became more of a priority than packing up and heading off to the ferry terminal on Sunday morning!

We did catch the boat on time, after which some of us said goodbye, while the rest of us headed out for lunch together.

We bonded as a group, and have come away with a new support network, and new friendships. We connected, and thanks to social media, we will continue that journey. I encourage you to get away for a weekend with a group of Christian women if an opportunity presents itself, and hopefully you’ll feel equally inspired and refreshed.

AROUND THE REGIONS

Andrew & Emil at the container door

beds were donated, only the wind-up beds were shipped because the hospital has no electricity.

Currently the trio have a shipping container on School Rd at Redbank Plains, which they hope to fill and send over in December. If anyone has equipment they would like to donate, please phone 0469 069 474.

Help for South Sudan Andrew Philip Oyet from New Hope Church left South Sudan in 1995 because of the conflict there, and was resettled in Australia in July 2003.

Andrew says that he is grateful to Australia for bringing refugees here, and since arriving he has developed a passion for helping people.

In 2011, South Sudan became independent, and Phillip returned there to visit in 2013. Things were very bad and Philip says he saw ‘terrible poverty and a lack of medical supplies’. In one instance, he visited a hospital where he saw mud being put on the ground so that patients could sleep on it.

What he saw stirred his heart, and on his return he spoke to Emil Rahimov (QB Regional Consultant) to see what could be done to help. Andrew and Emil partnered with Justin Olany, the leader of the Acholi community in Queensland, to seek donations of medical and hospital supplies.

Emil approached Carinity and a number of churches and the response was outstanding. Their first donation was a hospital bed, but soon they had enough to fill a shipping container, which was sent to Pajok Hospital in South Sudan in June. While both electrical and old superseded wind-up

Around the regions The water flows Neil Cole (Gatton Baptist) writes: Gatton Baptist Church, with the assistance of Agricultural Requirements, Gatton, has been able to supply a much needed submersible water pump for a small Bible college in picturesque Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Kwinkya Bible College is a training facility for indigenous church pastors, situated in Enga Province in the rugged Highlands. It is run by the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea but is open to any church in need of pastor education. Trainees come from all over the country, to study for three years, and they bring their families.

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where food is cooked over open fires.

Facilities are somewhat primitive although possibly an advance on the home villages of the people. There is a school nearby for the children.

Water supply to the site has been a constant problem, particularly as the old windmill has been broken down for some years. The women were required to walk a kilometre to access water and then to carry it back in heavy drums.

Recently an NGO has provided a new generator unit and the electrical system for the campus was upgraded.

They now have reliable electricity for four hours per night.

A local expert advised that a submersible water pump, providing water to a large tank, was now feasible, thus allowing the people of Kwinkya to have a water supply at all times. Gatton Baptist Church was happy to finance the purchase of a pump, provided by Agricultural Requirements, at a cost of almost $1000. Rev Dr Geoff Cramb took the pump with him when he flew to Mt Hagen in September, and it was then taken by road to Kwinkya to be installed by local tradespeople.

Small galvanised iron huts are provided for the students, with outside kitchens

College principal David with the pump

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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AROUND THE REGIONS

A welcome haven

Blessing the community Karen Jones (Browns Plains Baptist) writes: What an amazing day, and what an amazing God we serve! On Saturday 27 August, God blessed us with beautiful weather for our 15th Car Boot Sale, and it was the best one so far. Once a term, we invite people from the community to open their car boots or set up stalls on our church property. We don’t charge for the sites but will accept donations if people want to give. We also offer free tea and coffee, mini pancakes and a sausage sizzle. We want to bless our community. Any money received goes back into catering for the next car boot sale, to our school chaplain, or to some other need in the community.

This time there were 60 sellers. There was a rush of buyers at the beginning

of the day and then a steady flow of people wandering through, and then leaving with their purchases. One man made three trips to the car with items his wife had bought! Some of the comments heard on the day were: ‘It’s always a great morning—lots of bargains and beautiful people’ (Jodie).

‘I would like to thank everyone from the church, especially the lovely gentlemen who helped me pack up—the car boot is my favourite “market” ...You are blessed for having lovely caring people’ (Katie).

Our next Car Boot Sale is on 19 November, so if you are in the area, please call in and say ‘hello’, and maybe support the sellers as you grab a bargain.

Known to many of our readers, 95-year-old Colin Ballantyne had a vision to set up a space at Moore Park Baptist Church, Indooroopilly, where local residents could drop in for tea or coffee, and a chat. That vision became reality when Haven was launched last year. Since then, there has been a steady flow of patrons, cared for by a great band of volunteers.

Open Mondays to Fridays from 8.30 am to 11 am, Ps John Moore is hopeful that, with more volunteers, Haven will be open for longer hours.

If you live in the area and would like to lend a hand, please contact the church office 3878 4268 or office@moorepark.org.au

On the move

Rev Paul Holden has concluded at Noosa and retired.

AROUND THE REGIONS

Warmth on a very cold day Helen Anderson (Rockhampton Baptist) writes: It was a cold, early start for Rocky Baptist on Saturday 27 August when they held their inaugural Car Boot Sale. Stall holders braved less than 6 degrees Celsius to set up at 5.30 am! The car boot sale, which Rocky Baptist plans to hold annually, was staged as a pre-evangelism event. Car boot sales and garage sales are popular and attract members of the public, so Rocky Baptist used this to invite people onto the church grounds and give them a positive experience of the church family and premises.

Several hundred people attended the event and were able to purchase bargains galore from more than 20 sites selling their pre-loved treasures.

The church gave out information bags, with brochures on Rockhampton Baptist and its ministries, along with free bottles of water, balloons, stickers, etc. Members of the public were also blessed with a free sausage sizzle and free jumping castles and face painting!

The second coldest morning of the year didn’t keep the bargain hunters away, and the event was hailed a success, with a warm and friendly atmosphere and several positive conversations!

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Praise God for Church Insurance Ps Chris Ganter (Rockhampton Baptist) writes: In December 2015, we had a severe weather event that hit our ministry facilities. It was a heavy hail storm which filled up our gutters with ice, and caused water to run heavily into our building, causing severe water damage.

What seemed like a crisis at the time (and it was) was turned around to become something good for the church. Because we are part of the Baptist Insurance Services national insurance scheme, we called in the insurance company and they were great, and very understanding. Now, nearly a year later, we have all new carpet in the major areas of our facility, including our huge auditorium and stage. We provided labour to pull up the old carpet in the auditorium, and have been able to use the good bits to re-carpet other areas of our building. Isn’t God good? We give Him praise, and our grateful thanks go to Ken Conwell (Baptist Insurance Services), who facilitated everything and was there for us in this time of crisis.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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AROUND THE REGIONS working in conditions that we ‘city blokes’ can only imagine.

Bill Close of Care Outreach (a ministry dedicated to caring for the physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of people in rural and remote Australia) spoke of ongoing needs in the bush, despite the recent rains, also emphasising the high rate of suicide there. And QB Regional Consultant Warren Crank introduced the concept and aspirations of Red Dirt Church which has recently commenced with two fellowships.

A heart for the bush Alex Milne (Caloundra CityLife Baptist) writes: On a starry but chilly Friday evening in October, over 100 men gathered to enjoy fellowship, be inspired, challenged and make a practical contribution towards the needs of those struggling in outback Queensland.

On a private farming property on the banks of the Maroochy River at Yandina on the Sunshine Coast, Coastal Men—Outback Aid commenced with a fantastic meal catered by the men from Lifepoint North Buderim. Steve Grace— Australian country singer/song writer, and Sky Pilot enriched the night with great music.

And what is a men’s event in a paddock without some fire pits, an old VW Kombi and a few motorbikes to look at? One bike was of particular OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

interest—the custom built Harley Davison which Steve Grace had just ridden west to east across the centre of Australia. This trip was not just a ‘boys own’ adventure, but provided Steve and the team with a wonderful opportunity to visit and share the love of Christ with some of the remotest communities and farming properties in Australia. Steve shared his experiences of the real and daily threat of depression and suicide, particularly amongst 20–45 year-old males, and the difference music and a listening ear can have on lonely isolated men,

A time of prayer in small groups preceded an offering which raised over $3000 to be distributed to those in need through QB and Care Outreach. The event would not have been possible without the generous assistance given by the owners of the property, equipment from JC Hire, catering by Lifepoint and vehicle marshalling by CityLife Caloundra men.

Pastor at Yandina Baptist Church David Tidey, who headed up the event’s steering committee said: ‘We had a good night remembering people out west whose lives can be hard. We heard stories of farmers and indigenous peoples, and we prayed. We gave some money and, most importantly, we will continue to remember, speak of their needs and pray for those who are still doing it tough’.

SAVE THE DATE FOR

QB CONVENTION APRIL 4 - 7 2017

Guest Speakers: Stephen and Jenny Baxter Stephen is a business coach, mentor, and senior pastor of Hobart Baptist Church. Jenny is a radio broadcaster, writer and blogger.

Be involved ­ P&S Appreciation Dinner ­ Pastors' and Spouses' Retreat ­ Kids' Program ­ Relevant and interesting Electives and much more.

Hosted by QCCC Mapleton Located on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. With swimming pools, bush walks and lots of activities.

On site and Off Site accommodation available.

Please contact marketing@qb.org.au for further information

See you there!

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MISSION OF HOPE

AFTER CYCLONE WINSTON It was such a privilege to go to Fiji to minister in Christ’s name during our mission team’s 10-day visit at the end of April. After the damage wrought

by Cyclone Winston*, we were not sure we would be able to go—but God opened the way. We were so grateful for this opportunity to connect with the children and families of Lautoka and Ba and encourage them. Many of the children we met had been traumatised and impacted by the cyclone and the floods that followed. It was a joy to present our hope-filled Christian programs, and to help them understand that God is in control, loves them, knows their circumstances, and that He has a plan and purpose for their lives. This was a very fulfilling time of ministry. The months of planning, preparation and prayer were honoured and the gospel was shared. We praise God that He was able to use and grow us during our visit.

Organised under the banner of the Maryborough Baptist Church, the team of 12 members ranged in age from 13 to 70 and were drawn from OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

different churches including Baptist churches (Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Fraser Coast, Margate and Deception Bay), the local Bayside Australian Christian Church and Hervey Bay Full Gospel Church. The team had a breadth of life and ministry experience, as well as a heart for children’s ministry, and included a retired nurse and health care worker, experienced children’s workers, a retired primary school teacher, a missionary, a school principal, two pastors, a sports coach, three teenage students, a librarian and a pre-school teacher. A 13-year-old indigenous student from Maryborough was sponsored on the trip, and she made the most of this wonderful opportunity.

The team partnered with the Fiji College of Theology and Evangelism in Lautoka to present Christian programs to over 1,700 children. We ran a threeday camp based on an Olympic Games theme, presented programs in local villages, ministered in schools, church services, women’s and men’s meetings, home groups, and provided training for children’s workers.

This was the first time that the Fiji College had the opportunity to organise ministry teams to visit the local Catholic and Hindu schools. A Christian teacher at the Hindu school commented that she had been praying for two years for a Christian message to come into their school, and God had answered her prayers through the team’s visit.

Samaritan’s Purse has been involved in relief efforts, providing temporary accommodation, access to clean water and food, and assisting with rebuilding projects in schools and communities.

Because of this initial contact, three schools agreed to the team visiting to present a Christian program and to help with the distribution of Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to the students. One was a Methodist school with 400 students, which had lost part of its roof and was covered in tarps.

The principal shared that over 85% of the children’s homes had been badly affected by Cyclone Winston and the subsequent floods.

MISSION OF HOPE

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Presenting our Christian-based program of songs, puppet items, dramas, games, stories and craft helped the children to relax, have fun and understand how special they are, and that they are loved. The children were encouraged to ‘be strong and courageous’ in all circumstances. The shoebox distribution was an added bonus, and there were squeals of delight as the children unpacked their gift-filled boxes from Australia and New Zealand. For a short time, the worries of the past few months were forgotten.

Over 65 children and 15 leaders attended the weekend ‘Olympics Camp’. Costs were covered by donations from Maryborough and Hervey Bay church members, which was a great blessing to the families involved. The children were organised into eight countries to compete in a range of Olympic-styled events and Bible teaching programs. The children learnt what it means to ‘run the race of life’. Thirteen children committed their lives to Christ and are being followed up by their Sunday school teachers. Please pray for these young children; most of them are from Hindu backgrounds.

The damage wrought by Cyclone Winston was very evident as our team travelled around the western side of the main island of Viti Levu.

Many homes had lost their roofs, and crops and vegetation had been damaged, resulting in a shortage of food in the local markets. The Fiji College of Theology and Evangelism was at the forefront of offering help to those affected. We were able to pass on donations from home, including clothing, medical supplies, teaching resources, seeds, school supplies, a sewing machine, sports equipment, a replacement generator, tractor parts

and funds for the Bible college to distribute as needed.

Theology and Evangelism, admin@ afcfiji.com

Future ministry opportunities have opened up following this visit, which include the development of a sports ministry; supporting the establishment of a Christian school and assisting with the development of a Vocational Training Centre and campsite outside Lautoka. Help from other churches will be needed to see these plans come to fruition. If you are interested in finding out more about these projects, please contact the Fiji College of

Julie Terry (Fiji Mission Team Leader) worships with Maryborough Baptist Church * In February this year, more than 40 people died when Cyclone Winston, the most powerful storm to make landfall in the southern hemisphere, hit Fiji. Houses, schools, churches, road and crops were destroyed. A huge tidal surge, up to four metres high, followed.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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MILESTONES

CITY SOUTH BAPTIST CHURCH The City South Baptist Church was admitted to the Queensland Baptist Union (QB) as a constituted church on 2 September 2016, twelve months following its establishment by former members of the City Tabernacle.

The new church had its origins in a sizeable prayer group which began meeting in mid-2015 to seek the leading of the Holy Spirit. By August 2015 we were of one mind as to the path we wanted to follow and set up a steering committee (John Briggs, Dudley Dennis, Ian Hale and John Williams) with the task of keeping us together as a fellowship. We were soon provided with a temporary home by the Presbyterian Church at Coorparoo, who allowed us to use their church and adjoining hall on Sunday afternoons.

From the outset, a spirit of love, peace and joy was evident, and there was a feeling of having been brought together to worship God freely and openly under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. For our first three months, our steering committee invited a variety of preachers to our pulpit. These included Rev Ross Conwell, Pastor Athanasios Bardis, Rev Dr Peter Francis, Pastor Kevin OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Clarke, Dudley Dennis, George Ansell, Michael Bennett, Rev Ken Conwell, Rev Mark Mackay and Rev Jim Kitson. By January 2016, we had an average attendance of around 60, our Sunday school had been underway since 11 October 2015, our draft Constitution was well developed, the youth group was meeting regularly, and we were ready to call our first pastor. Our membership is composed of former City Tabernacle members and adherents, as well as a number of folk from the local area and others.

On 17 January 2016, Rev Ian Wright was invited to take on the pastorate of our church, with the commissioning being conducted by John Williams.

Rev Ross Conwell then led us in

prayer, followed by a laying on of hands on Pastor Ian and Margie.

Prayer continues to be an important part of our lives with well attended fortnightly prayer meetings, as well as regular prayer requests via our pastor.

We are blessed with a congregation with a range of experiences in church work, and the wide participation of the church membership has enabled us all to contribute to the work and growth of our church.

We are looking for our own premises, and are confident that God will provide us with a home from which we can reach out to those in the city south area.

Bill Hughes City South Baptist Church

MILESTONES

BROWNS PLAINS BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday 31 July, when we held a Thanksgiving Service and luncheon, was a special time of celebrating God’s goodness to us at Browns Plains. For 26 years we had been meeting in the local high school. We owned a house that we purchased in 2003 which was initially rented out. In early 2011, the church decided to sell this property to purchase a building suitable for services, but we were confronted by many obstacles.

After much negotiating with council for over four years, we were granted temporary permission and started meeting in the house on our property in December 2015. To make more room in the house to hold our services, some renovations commenced.

After gaining engineers’ approval we demolished some internal walls and ceilings (it was quite exciting putting hammers through walls, and having

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the celling crash to the floor). Then, with specialised help, new walls and cupboards were built, rooms painted and vinyl flooring laid, with members doing as much of the work as possible.

It was a lot of work, but also great times of fellowship.

To celebrate the completion and to acknowledge all those who contributed in this process, we invited them to the service and lunch. Guests included QB representatives, builders, and an electrician. Our local councillor, who has been very supportive, also attended the luncheon.

We give all praise to God because He made the seemingly impossible happen.

‘I will proclaim the name of the Lord; how glorious is our God! He is the Rock; his deeds are perfect; everything he does is just and fair.

He is a faithful God who does no wrong; how just and upright he is!’

(Deuteronomy 32:3-4)

Degrees in theology and ministry

Karen Jones Administrator, Browns Plains Baptist Church

Diploma | Bachelor | Masters | Doctoral

developing Christians of influence “Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding” Jeremiah 3:15

www.malyon.edu.au

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QB

NEW REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR QUEENSLAND BAPTIST PASTORS In 2014, after a considerable amount of research, the report from the Queensland Baptist Training Review was presented and accepted by the board of Queensland Baptists. The focus of the report was about the formation and early development of Queensland Baptist registered ministers.

The report emphasised the vital importance of training and nurturing the new generation of Queensland Baptist pastors, and made recommendations on how we can grow and develop this area of our movement.

Need for change The current registration process has served the movement well for more than 20 years, and the values and criteria remain valid, but the process needs to change to accommodate the recommendations of the review and meet the challenges of the changing contexts our pastors and ministers find themselves in.

Some of the changes over the last 20 years: • There is a much greater diversity of ministry training options available.

• The demographic of Queensland has changed dramatically with the welcoming of many migrants and refugees into our community.

• Advances in technology now mean that training is much more flexible.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

• Whilst in the past most people trained and then entered the pastorate, today many people accept a call to a church and train concurrently while serving as a pastor.

review, a new registration pathway has been developed. Similar rigour and care will be taken to ensure the candidates personality, character and sense of call are tested in the initial registration process.

The current registration process began in a period when the majority of candidates would study full time for three years at Malyon, and during this time would undergo a lengthy period of discernment regarding suitability for pastoral ministry.

Today this lengthy process can result in pastors serving several years before being registered as Queensland Baptist pastors.

The distinctive features of the new process compared to the past are:

Key recommendations of the training review Whilst the training review had a total of 27 recommendations they can be summarised in three main emphases: • That we develop greater support and pastoral direction those seeking to become Baptist ministers.

• That candidates are assisted in developing a formal learning plan at the beginning of the registration process.

• That newly registered ministers have pastoral supervision for the first two years of registered pastoral ministry.

The new registration process In order to accommodate the major recommendations of the training

• Ministerial Services and the Regional Consultancy team will be proactively involved in the formation and supervision of new ministers.

• One of the Regional Consultants will assume the role of Formation Coordinator and provide advice and pastoral guidance to candidates in the process.

• The initial registration process duration will be greatly reduced to about six months.

• As part of the initial registration, a learning plan will be completed, and the candidate held accountable for following through on it.

• After the initial registration phase, new ministers will be Registered Ministers – Supervised and will be supervised in their church setting, using a set of ministry competencies which have been researched and identified by the wider Queensland Baptist body.

• A Registered Minister – Supervised will have all the privileges and responsibilities of a registered pastor.

QB • At the end of the Supervision period, and with satisfactory progress on the learning plan and demonstrated competence, the minister will become a fully Registered Minister.

a commitment to significant study and a more rigorous testing than that which might be required by the local church.

Who should seek registration The Queensland Baptist Constitution requires all senior and solo pastors to be registered with Queensland Baptists. Other staff at churches who have a sense of call to vocational ministry may apply.

As Baptist churches, we value the fact that all are called to service and many of the roles in churches are appropriately recognised by the local churches.

Registration is reserved for those who have a vocational (long term) sense of calling to being a pastor in Queensland Baptist churches in the broader sense. Such a calling requires SIMPLIFIED

The Formation Coordinator is available to discuss with churches and individuals their suitability to commence the registration process.

What to do if you sense God calling you to become a Queensland Baptist pastor • You can contact Queensland Baptists and request the brochure titled ‘For the Ministry Enquirer’.

• The Formation Coordinator is available to discuss study requirements for registered ministry and can be contacted on 33545601 or stephen.ball@ qb.org.au • You should discuss your sense of call and suitability with your pastor and church

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leadership. Candidates will not be accepted without the endorsement of their local Baptist church.

• You could also discuss your sense of call with your local regional consultant.

• If you wish to proceed towards pastoral registration, contact Queensland Baptists (Ph 3354 5601) to make an appointment with the Formation Coordinator to discuss entering the process.

Stephen Ball Regional Consultant 37 Redgum Place, Gaythorne QLD 4051 PO Box 6166 Mitchelton QLD 4053 P 07 3354 5601 M 0411 899 158 F 07 3354 5646 www.qb.org.au

NEW REGISTRATION PATHWAY DISCUSS SENSE OF CALL WITH LOCAL CHURCH LEADERS INTERVIEW WITH FORMATION COORDINATOR CHURCH ENDORSEMENT COMPLETED BY REGIONAL CONSULTANT & CHURCH LEADERSHIP

6 MONTHS

INITIAL REGISTRATION PROCESS INCLUDING DEVELOPMENT OF A LEARNING PLAN INTERVIEW REGISTERED MINISTER SUPERVISED REQUIRES ACCEPTANCE OF CALL TO QB CHURCH/MINISTRY & 2 YEARS OF SUPERVISED PRACTICE

2 YEARS INTERVIEW REGISTERED MINISTER

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Australian Baptists together in global mission

Graeme is moving into a new phase of ministry where he plans to visit South Asia three times a year, building on relationships through practical discipleship.

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BAPLINK

Helping build Baptist churches Baplink Kingdom Offset Accounts Baplink has a wonderful opportunity for you to invest in Queensland Baptist Churches—helping churches to build through capital purchases—new land, new buildings, upgrading facilities.

Congregations across Queensland require your assistance to upgrade their facilities to create a relevant and attractive property and resource for their community. You can deposit your funds interest free with Baplink through a Kingdom Offset Account (KOA), either for the benefit of your own church, or any QB church.

Kingdom Offset Accounts reduce the interest payable on church loans, meaning that more of the church loan repayment goes against the principal, reducing the term of the loan and the impact of the repayments on the church. The more people who invest in a KOA, the greater the interest savings for QB churches. Your deposit makes a big difference!

The really great thing about Kingdom Offset Accounts is that even if you can’t give large sums as an offering for capital works, you can deposit your funds knowing that every cent you have invested is an interest saving for the nominated church. You retain access to your funds, and the church benefits by you forgoing any interest or income earned personally by you.

We at Baplink believe that Kingdom Offset Accounts are a very practical and effective way for you to support QB churches directly, whilst still retaining access to your funds.

Here are some testimonials from current investors: ‘As pensioners, we can’t help the church by giving as much as we would like to, but the Kingdom Offset was attractive— supporting the church without losing access to our funds. We’ve had an association with Baplink for a few decades through other investments, and so we were confident they could help. The process of setting up a new Kingdom Offset Account was painless, and the Baplink team made it easy. We are very excited to be part of reducing our church loan balance—we want our church to pay off the loan as soon as possible so the funds used for loan repayments can be used for other ministry.

I would highly recommend the Kingdom Offset Account to anyone looking for a way to support their church’ (Barbara, Baplink Supporter).

‘We feel that God gave us a vision to use our funds to invest in the Kingdom Offset Account while we can, that this is what we should do for the Lord. There is a real need to support the churches, regardless of which church. When our church paid out its loan, we chose to keep our KOA

and have the money offset against another Queensland Baptist Church, knowing that God would use those funds for His purpose. We are aware that our church will need the funds in the near future, but in the meantime, we are very happy to be supporting another church. As pensioners, we were so pleased to find a way to invest without losing our funds or our pension.

It’s such a great benefit to the church and we are happy to be a part of it’ (Mrs L, Baplink supporter).

And from a current church beneficiary of KOAs: ‘The Kingdom Offset Accounts have been a real blessing to our church. They really help to bring down the loan and allow us to look at doing more around the church, like installing new toilets recently.

Kingdom Offset Accounts have just been so wonderful for us’ (Coolum Beach Baptist Church).

Are you interested in investing in ministry? Join Baplink with a Kingdom Offset Account and help Queensland Baptist Churches build. Contact Baplink for an application form today!

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

Robert Chapman Baplink Manager robert.chapman@ baplink.org.au

THE TRAINING COLLABORATIVE

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ETHNIC TRAINING MEETS A GROWING NEED Queensland Baptist Ethnic churches have been the fastest growing sector in the movement for some time now. In fact, Ethnic churches now comprise 20% of the churches in the QB network. A few years ago, this reality led QB’s Regional Consultant for Ethnic and Multicultural Ministry, Emil Rahimov, to explore a new stream of training with QB’s Vocational Education and Training division, The Training Collaborative (formerly CALAM Training).

On Saturday 6 August, at a service held at Logan Baptist Church, The Training Collaborative (TCC) graduated nine leaders from our Ethnic churches with their Diploma of Christian Ministry and Theology.

In a service of colour (national dress), joy and enthusiasm, more than 200 people celebrated what God has done through this training, and what God will do as the graduates put into practice what they have learned. All of the graduates are from refugee

backgrounds, and despite their own traumatic experiences, have felt the call to minister to others, and undertake training to equip themselves in this mission.

QB’s General Superintendent, David Loder, spoke to the graduates and attendees about the privilege of serving in ministry in their churches, but not just their churches, in their wider communities and beyond. QB’s Board chairman, Peter Sweetman, prayed for the graduates that God would take them and use them in mighty ways to bring about restoration, healing and reconciliation of people with their Father God. Principal, Andrew McCafferty, spoke of TCC’s desire to continue to train people for ministry through this stream, many for whom English is their 3rd, 4th or even 5th language. ‘We have a brilliant opportunity through our Ethnic QB churches to reach out to people who are coming here, often because of tragic circumstances in their

homelands, from all over the world,’ Andrew said.

TTC has developed this specialised stream of training to take into account the cultural and educational distinctives of the Ethnic leaders. In 2017, TTC will be launching new streams of training through the nationally recognised Diploma of Christian Ministry and Theology for QB church planters and church pastors (leading to their registration). For more information on TTC’s courses visit www.trainingcollaborative.org.au Andrew McCafferty CEO/Principal The Training Collaborative (formerly CALAM Training) Ph: 07 3354 5681 / 0427 004 601

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QB YOUTH

HAVE YOU STARTED TO DIG YOUR BIBLE? DIG is a Youth Bible Reading Program that was designed to help young people get started in reading and applying the Bible for themselves.

There are three components that make up DIG, which is geared for youth from grade seven and up.

1. THE JOURNAL

The Journal contains all the information about the program, what to do, how to do it, why to do it, and frequently asked questions. It also provides ‘DIG Pages’ for the young person’s notes as they go through each passage. DIG stands for ‘Dive in’, ‘Inspect’, ‘Grow’. Each journal page has space for the young person to DIG the passage they are investigating. In the ‘Dive In’ section, they write down the passage reference. In the ‘Inspect’ section they write down any initial observations from the passage, and in the ‘grow’ section they write down any ways God is encouraging them to grow or change.

2. THE LEVEL CARDS

Each young person doing DIG has a particular level. They start at one and currently DIG goes up to 10. As they finish a level card (with a list of passages on it), they move to the next one. Each level has more passages than OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

the previous. Level 1 directs young people to read just two parables before going to level 2, and Level 10 directs young people to read the entire Gospel of Mark.

Christian walk, and many of the young people in our churches struggle with it. DIG gives young people helpful and simple instruction on how to get started.

3. THE COORDINATOR

3. REGULAR ENCOURAGEMENT

The level cards are available from a coordinator who is the ‘go to’ person for the program and is there to encourage the young person as they go up through the levels.

The program provides three main advantages over the general ‘just go and read your Bible’ method that young people often attempt, and that can leave them lost somewhere in the Torah.

1. HAND-PICKED PASSAGES The passages on the level cards in DIG are hand-picked for people who are just starting out reading the Bible for themselves. They start with ones that are easier to understand and work their way up to a whole book of the Bible.

2. THE DIG METHOD

The DIG method is a simple way to get stuck into a passage and apply it to life. Reading the Bible in such a way that it prompts and informs our sanctification is a vital part of our

It isn’t easy for young people to get started in reading the Bible.

Encouragement along the way is vital, and in most cases is necessary for the formation of a long lasting habit. Regular coordinator contact as the young people move up the levels is designed to provide this encouragement.

Many young people have already begun a journey using DIG that will hopefully be with them for life. If you would like more info on DIG, check out www.digyourbible.com or to get your hands on DIG to use for your church, please contact me.

Aaron Fozzard QB Youth & Young Adults’ Ministry Team Leader aaron.fozzard@qb.org.au

QB KIDS & THEIR FAMILIES

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!

T U O B A D N A T U O kids). During their three-day stay, the team connected with local chaplains, RI instructors and members of local congregations, and ran training seminars on various topics related to family, faith and ministry life.

The QB Kids Team is passionate about encouraging and equipping leaders involved in ministry to children and families across our state. This year, the team has intentionally taken steps to connect with those involved in kids’ ministry outside Brisbane, in the coastal, rural and remote areas of Queensland.

As the year draws to a close, we are excited to see that God has opened doors of opportunity for our plans to become a reality. On the weekend of 25–29 August, team member Julie Terry made the first of the QB Kids regional trips … all the way to Mt Isa! This children and family ministry focused trip was organised by Scripture Union, and the team included Terry Williams (SU), Jo Knijnenburg (Bible Society) and Julie Terry (QB

I was excited and encouraged to see and hear how God is moving in the Mt Isa community. Our team was made to feel very welcome, and our sessions were attended by representatives from a number of churches. One chaplain and his family drove 400km just to come to the Saturday training session. There are many young families in Mt Isa, and this was reflected in the attendance at our seminars and the Sunday services.

It was very encouraging to see so many young children in the Mount Isa Baptist Sunday morning service. This special family service was presented by members of the Girls’ Brigade. It was great to see people of all ages worshipping together, and the older congregation encouraging and supporting the children and young families in their midst. It was also a special day of celebration as the congregation affirmed the call of their new pastor. I met with some of the enthusiastic team ministering to children and families, and learnt about the range

of family-focused ministries they offer: Girls’ and Boys’ Brigade, Sonshine Corner and Junior Church, a casual Mum’s Group, Men’s Shed, and ministry to indigenous communities. There is also strong support for RI and chaplaincy in the town. Well, that was just the first of our regional visits. Other members of our QB Kids’ team will be venturing out from Brisbane in the next few weeks to Mackay and Gladstone, and more trips are planned during 2017.

The QB Kids’ Team realises that God is doing amazing things in and through those ministering to children and families across our state … we want to thank you all and encourage you to keep ‘shining’ for Jesus in your patch.

For further information contact QB Kids Team Leader Sally Contessi sally. contessi@qb.org.au Julie Terry QB Kids Team Member Sally Contessi Team Leader QB Kids and their Families sally.contessi@qb.org. au

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QB WOMEN

In every church, there are amazing men and women who work behind the scenes and who are often unrecognised or acknowledged. These people mow lawns, clean the toilets, set up and clean up after morning teas, church lunches and dinners, look after children, work on the sound desk and data projector, create bulletins, powerpoint and other multimedia, take meals to people who need them … and so much more.

Our policy at a She is… event is to bring our team and do everything, so that the people who are usually behind the scenes, get a chance to sit and soak up the worship and the Word. That means we bring the worship team, the speaker and the caterer! We wash up the dishes and empty the bins.

Sometimes it is hard for a ‘behind the scenes’ person to not be ‘doing’. There is a feeling of guilt that they should not be taking advantage. Our She is… team loves being able to serve behind the scenes so that each woman who attends can have her special time with God. It is our great honour to bless each woman at She is… by serving them in this way.

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We have amazing volunteers who help. Some of them come to every She is… event! They are the ones who pack welcome bags, create and hang decorations, hand out gifts, serve communion, collect the offering, help with setting up and packing down, and drive all over the place with trailer loads of stuff. We even have those outside our team, such as the QCCC staff at Mt Tamborine and Mapleton, who look after us so well at our camps.

As a ‘behind the scenes’ person, we get to see a different perspective from those who are upfront. We see women surrounding a broken friend, sharing their tears and lifting them up in

QB WOMEN

prayer. We see women dancing up the back of the room, in worship to the King (don’t let anything stop you! It’s awesome!). We see happy faces leaving the auditorium, glowing from their experience with God and ready to head back to their life with new vision and a refreshed relationship with God.

our set up and packing up. We have prayed for and with many women, and have heard their stories about how a word has set them free. We dug deep and raised over $13,000 dollars for the Vulnerable Children’s Fund! We have sung, danced, eaten, laughed, cried, smiled and rejoiced at each event.

During our She is… events in 2016, we went to five parts of the state and ministered to around 600 women. We embarrassed all the men who serve on our team. We farewelled our beloved Andy Coller from BWA who lovingly came to each event to share the BWA ministry and gave manly assistance in

As we look forward to 2017, we thank all those who have been involved in helping She is… run smoothly.

Thanks to those who promote, pray and provide their time to volunteer.

Thanks to our amazing speakers, who have shared their hearts with us.

Thank YOU for coming to a She is…

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event and being a part of it. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events next year, and ask that you pray about bringing a friend.

Cathy Ballantine worships with Salisbury Baptist Church and is an invaluable member of the She is… team.

Cathy Knechtli State Director Queensland Baptist Women director@sheis.net.au

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QCCC

Mapleton today

GOOD TIMES, THEN AND NOW Recently one of our Baptist churches ‘re-trialled’ a youth group camp at QCCC Mapleton and came out at the end of the weekend raving about the fun they’d had and the positive effect of the weekend on their community formation and relationships.

It made me thankful for my teen years and the epic youth group and family camps we used to have as part of Townsville District Baptist Church (TDBC now Northreach).

So I thought I’d share some of those experiences because they’re just as possible to have today as they were back in the 1980s.

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The May long weekend was always the domain of the TDBC ‘Family Camp’.

The first few I went on were held in the Jourama Falls National Park, where the church took over a large camping ground area exclusively. Some church folk had amazing camping setups (even by today’s standards) and they’d set up great awnings and make their cooking space available to others not as fortunate. It made for good communal eating spaces, unhurried conversation and areas lit up at night for games and entertainment.

I was one of the Willows Lodge kids and we would turn up with tatty ‘2man’ tents which had seen their best

years sometime in the previous decade.

We teenagers didn’t mind, however, as it meant we had a level of autonomy, and the youth group would set up somewhat separate from the rest of the church where we had a bit of space and independence.

Each day there’d be one time of brief community worship and devotion, but outside of that, the emphasis was on relationship and recreation. For us teens it meant the trek up the trail to Jourama Falls itself, where we’d chill all day, jumping off successively taller cliffs and only returning when it was dark, or we were hungry, or often both.

QCCC

It might be hard to quantify the benefits of these family camps, but I’ve no doubt they were real. What I do know is that at one camp, in my late teens, we were given a tongue-lashing by a Pharisee-type, and many of us didn’t go the following year. In the vacuum created over that weekend, a good number of our youth descended into some fairly destructive behaviour.

In South East Queensland, a family camp format is easily and affordably rolled out at the Mount Tamborine Convention Centre (as well as QCCC Tamborine). You have the option of exclusive access to campgrounds, and also accommodation and catering in surrounding venues; and Tamborine Mountain holds many delights and swimming holes.

Our other epic camping format was the Easter Youth Camp, most often on Magnetic Island. Like all good Baptist churches, we bypassed the Baptist campsite and went to the Uniting Church campsite (just kidding—the Baptist site on Magnetic Island was too small for us). Often we were joined by a youth exchange from Innisfail or Ayr, which led to a few long-distance romances that would peter out over the next month or two (we didn’t have Snapchat).

During my first Australian Easter (1986), we were joined by worldrenowned evangelist David Smethurst, who held us spellbound and reduced us to tears on Good Friday as he graphically recounted the reality of Jesus’ crucifixion. The length of the Easter camp meant we could fit a lot in—great teaching, some personal development and planning, lots of game time and sports, and hours on the beach at Alma Bay. Easter camp was also a time of people coming to faith, rededicating their lives and getting baptised.

Looking back, it would be kind to call the accommodation ‘rustic’. In reality, it was large, wooden dorms (probably a fire trap) with yawning boarded louvres (open to the elements) running down the side. The louvres were great for letting all sorts of creepy crawlies in and allowing us boys to jump out at all hours to get into all sorts of pranks and mischief. We’re talking Townsville at the back end of summer with not even a fan for comfort. Once again, it didn’t seem to bother us. The dorms were just fine for listening to football broadcasts and music and general partying. I’ve no doubt a survey of our youth group would elicit a positive response and wistful memories of the life-changing events which occurred on our Easter Camps.

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The wind was taken out of the Easter weekend for camps by Easterfest, but its demise means Easter is once again prime time for youth camps.

However, that longer format can also be pursued on other long weekends or in the school holidays, particularly in Summer when QCCC’s sites are at their quietest. I’d have loved to attend a youth camp in the salubrious surrounds of Mapleton, Tamborine or Brookfield, though my older self cringes at the thought of the damage we could do to the resort style facilities QCCC enjoys. Never mind, they’re there to be used … and we can always send you the repair bill!

At QCCC we’re passionate about investing in QB families and youth, and will be happy to partner with you to create a great program for your church.

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

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MTQ

PUT SIMPLY …

Have you heard of Simple Church? If the term is new to you, try Google where first up you’ll find a Wikipedia page (of course) that says the ‘simple church movement is an Evangelical Christian movement that reinterprets the nature and practice of church’.

Now that’s interesting … and pretty good really. Simple Church exponents from the United States, the U.K. and Europe, not to mention the Chinese Underground Church are all reporting experiences around a journey of re-discovery about the nature and practise of what we call ‘church’.

Now we want to share with you that Simple Church is making itself known within Queensland Baptists. People are looking to reinterpret church in a way that will make the Body of Christ a consistently valuable part of life in Australia.

There are no structures beyond relationships submission; there are no paid staff for all are qualified and expected to minister as Jesus calls OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

us, and there is only the simplest of liturgies because each person is encouraged to provide a sense of leadership for the group, and contribute a sense of what God is saying to the Body. Finally, there are no venues to hire or organise; a home is all that is needed as the context for Simple Church.

Simple Church has obvious value in small villages and remote towns.

This has been MTQ’s understanding since its 1997 report to our family of churches. So, we look at places like Ravenswood, Aramac, Alpha, Childers and Maryvale, and while Simple Church isn’t THE way to go in every context, in many places around our State (city and country) this is how Christians experience Church.

RED DIRT CHURCH An example of a Simple Church that has launched recently is Red Dirt

Church. Why ‘Red Dirt’? Well, it’s an Aussie thing. The generally hot and dry Australian climate has created an almost perfect oxidizing environment.

Red Dirt is a descriptor of Australian soil. And, Red Dirt Church is a Simple Church for a sunburnt country.

It’s also a spiritual thing. Red also represents the blood of Jesus which flowed from His body on the Cross. If you knelt at the foot of the Cross you would see red dirt.

Each Red Dirt Church values being personal, biblical, transformational and missional. Here’s what each term means: PERSONAL We meet up and share life. Knowing people and being known, in a ‘down-to-earth’ way, is part of life in a Red Dirt Church.

We are committed to cultivating genuine, generous relationships that are characterised by prayerfulness, playfulness, respectfulness, openness, helpfulness, forgiveness and mutual accountability (John 13:34-35). To this end, consistent hospitality is a staple for us.

MTQ BIBLICAL We meditate daily and learn to imitate Jesus. Our lives are grounded in biblical truth. The Bible is our absolute authority on all matters of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:1617). It reveals God to us—Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).

God’s will for our lives is revealed in the Bible; especially as we focus on Jesus Christ. Therefore, prayerful and meditative Bible study is at the core of a Red Dirt Church.

TRANSFORMATIONAL We make a change for good while being changed by God. Following Jesus is a life-transforming experience.

He will change us for good! And, Jesus intended his followers to have a positive and enlightening influence on the people around them (Matthew 5:13-16). Jesus expected us to do good and seek peace. We can make a difference because Jesus changes people.

MISSIONAL We are on mission with God as unofficial chaplains.

Living and sharing the Good News about Jesus is a natural imperative for us (Matthew 13:1-23). We believe that through every-day, local, practical mission we can best invite people to join us on a life-changing spiritual journey. A big part of this for us is alleviating poverty and caring for people in crisis. God’s mission is holistic and generous.

In keeping with our values, there are four lifestyle commitments that we make.

We: 1. meet up and share life; 2. meditate daily and learn to imitate Jesus; 3. make a change for good while being changed by God; 4. are on mission with God as unofficial chaplains.

MEET UP AND SHARE LIFE We gather weekly whenever and wherever we can. These meetings usually include coffee and food. Our Red Dirt Church Facebook Page helps keep us connected and interacting, providing opportunity to find out what’s going on, be encouraged and inspired, ask questions, request prayer and generally stay in touch. Informal, supportive, prayerful friendships are the heartbeat of the Church.

MEDITATE DAILY AND LEARN TO IMITATE CHRIST We provide daily, guided, Bible readings for meditation. These will give us wide Biblical exposure on the theme for discussion at our next gathering.

Each week, we dedicate (at least) one significant amount of time for personal, prayerful, Gospel-meditation and reflection on the implications of what we have read. Our weekly worship gatherings will almost always include significant time for Bible learning.

MAKE A CHANGE FOR GOOD WHILE BEING CHANGED BY GOD Each week, we prayerfully and deliberately look for an opportunity to enrich the lives of others; in others words, making a change for good.

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This might be through a simple gift, some words of encouragement or some practical support. Habitual, prayerful Bible-meditation, alone and in groups, with a willingness to respond positively and actively to what God is saying, catalyzes change in our lives.

WE ARE ON MISSION WITH GOD AS UNOFFICIAL CHAPLAINS As ambassadors for Christ, we are commissioned by God to care for people holistically. We are prepared to share our hope and leverage our relationships for good, and we remain constant in our intercession and continue to look for opportunities to nudge people towards God. Queensland is Australia’s most decentralised state. There are a lot of small communities around that might be great places for Simple Churches.

And, there are so many sub-cultures that could be best reached by niche churches. So, if you’re interested in starting a Simple Church, please contact Colin Stoodley to explore the possibility. If you’d like to lead a Red Dirt Church, contact Warren Crank for more information.

Colin Stoodley Leader, MTQ colin.stoodley@ qb.org.au Warren Crank QB Regional Consultant warren.crank@ qb.org.au

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QB ARCHIVES

Stats—again!

2016 is a good year to get a snapshot of church life—with both the Australian Census and the National Church Life Survey (NCLS) taking place. There will be some interesting results from the Census (even though there was a massive IT failure on the day!). Past trends indicated significant growth in the ‘no religion’ and nonChristian sectors. But this year the whole ‘religion’ question itself was completely different, so expect some drastic changes. There will also be further changes of balance within the Christian sector as the old historic denominations continue to age and decline, and some of the newer ones pass their peak. Last Census there were over 87,000 Baptists (2% of the population), about 16% of whom were church members.

The NCLS is done close to the Census, so we can obtain some good comparisons. NCLS data is more helpful for understanding the internal workings of the churches. In fact,

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

the Baptist Union of Queensland considers it important enough that it is offering to bear the cost of the survey for all churches. Hopefully this will obviate the problem encountered in the past when the take-up rate was low.

Obviously, churches that choose to do the survey will be better informed, and be able to take appropriate steps at the local level to strengthen their good points and deal with their weaknesses.

But the overall picture of Baptists in Queensland can only be determined if there is a high level of involvement.

A low take-up not only disadvantages Baptists in Queensland because they will not be able to get a good picture of the state of the whole denomination, but it will also prejudice the value of the NCLS from a total perspective. Researchers and historians will be deprived of vital data which will mean they cannot understand the state of the churches in Queensland. Those looking specifically at Baptists across the nation will also suffer the loss of important data.

After all, on the Australian scene, Queensland Baptists are in third place.

Also Baptist churches are typically more active and attract a greater involvement by members than many other denominations. This makes them more significant than their basic numerical strength would suggest. So it is important for Queensland Baptists to be fully involved.

Some of the areas surveyed by the NCLS are important in themselves, and also give a good indication of trends in outreach, spirituality and personal commitment. They include the nature of the faith of everyday church attendees, how people react to the style and content of church

QB ARCHIVES services, information about the vision of the churches, how people relate to the church and community and sharing their faith. The survey enables people to express their personal feelings, not just numerically.

The findings are processed professionally with the results being related to the local church, the denomination as a whole, and the state and nationally.

The service provided by NCLS also includes consultancy on the significance of the survey for the church, and how to best to benefit from its findings. This is valuable qualitative data, useful for current action.

From the Archives’ perspective, it provides a vital snapshot of Baptists in Queensland for the historical record. The NCLS has been running since 1991 so there is now an impressive body of information which can be extremely useful in detecting trends. We are fortunate to have this tool today.

Similar data for other times and other places is often hard to locate.

The other kind of information we need is accurate, up-todate and comprehensive numerical data about the member churches of the Baptist Union, including their membership, finances and outreach. This is also hard to obtain. Each year Queensland Baptists requests this kind of data from the churches for its own planning purposes, but not all respond properly. The kind of data requested includes membership numbers, baptisms, number of people involved in church life, as well as various aspects of the financial profile of the church.

From the beginning of the Baptist Union in 1877 (and even before) data like this was collected and published in annual reports and in the monthly magazine. It also gave detailed information about church property (type of building seating, cost, when erected, insurance cover) and the pastor (name,

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date of settlement). Other sections dealt with groups in the church like Sunday schools. However, publication of the church property data ceased in 1996 and the rest in 2008.

The current QB Directory gives full details of pastors and their years of service, a feature which began in 1963 when Queensland finally caught up with others which had been doing this for decades. Up until 2005, there was also a section in the (then) QB Handbook giving details of Baptist Union appointees over the years, which provided a good historical overview of the development of the denomination and names of some of the key personnel involved. The situation is no different in other states, where information from our contacts suggests that in some cases, there is even less attention to statistics.

This lack of publicly available data is an unfortunate trend which seems to run counter to most other parts of our community where access to vital statistics is regarded as important for planning and effective administration of any organisation. The Australian Census details are made fully public and historic data is readily available. It is even more regrettable given that it is now much easier than ever before to make such statistics available. It is also regretful that this kind of information is not readily available because it is vital that there be transparency in an open society.

Furthermore, this kind of data is essential for historical evaluation and analysis of trends which are especially important to anyone involved in church life today.

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

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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CARINITY

HELPING TO BREAK THE CYCLE OF FAMILY VIOLENCE Queensland is pioneering an Australiafirst initiative to break the cycle of domestic violence by stopping it when it first appears – in boyhood.

Carinity and Domestic Violence Action Centre’s Renew Program is a one-of-a-kind initiative working with mothers and their adolescent sons to stop family violence and rebuild healthy relationships.

Carinity’s Talera Program Manager Anna Jones says witnessing, or being a victim of domestic violence is extremely traumatic for children. As a result, boys aged between 11 and 17 years can often go on to use abusive, controlling or coercive behaviour in their own family relationships. ‘Renew aims to improve the relationship between mothers and sons by working through their past abuse and trauma, and holding the young people accountable for their own violent behaviour,’ she says.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

The free 20-week program supports parenting, teaches general relationship skills and breaks down gender stereotypes through a combination of group sessions, as well as individual and joint counselling with mothers and sons.

‘Fundamentally, domestic violence undermines a mother’s ability to effectively parent, which leads to breakdowns in the mother-child attachment. It is important to focus on both the violent behaviour and the core relationship between mothers and their sons,’ Anna says. ‘In Queensland, and around the world, the response to family violence has been to focus on adult perpetrators and treat violent teenagers as adults instead of being part of a mother-child relationship.

Early intervention is the key to stopping the cycle. Research shows violent and aggressive behaviours as adolescent and teenage boys is a precursor to domestic violence.’

Renew is a joint program between Carinity Talera and Domestic Violence Action Centre funded by the Queensland Government.

For more information, go to www.renewsupport.org.au or email renew@carinity.org.au

INSIDE OUT: BEHIND CLOSED DOORS It seems like with every week there is a new scandal for the NRL. The game has recently been reeling from allegations of match-fixing and issues of gambling. And when the finals are upon us, with the extra media coverage that brings, individual behaviour is under increased scrutiny. Players can be quickly scapegoated for any mistake. Normally, I don’t pay much attention to these things, however one incident caught my eye recently.

It was reported that Andrew Fifita had written three letters on his bandaged arm each week saying ‘FKL’. Allegedly, it’s a symbol of support for a friend he visits. The problem? His friend is a convicted criminal who is serving a sentence in prison for a ‘one-punch’ attack that resulted in the death of an innocent person. To make matters worse, the brother of the victim later suicided, and so a family was devastated by the loss of two sons.

There was outrage that Fifita would be so insensitive, particularly towards

CARINITY the surviving members of the victim’s family, by reminding them of what happened in such a public setting.

Commentators and ex-players alike were unanimous in calling for him to be sacked or at least stood down for the finals series. Some made some more nuanced statements recognising that the issue wasn’t that Fifita had shown support for the offender, but rather the way in which he had gone about it. It seems Fifita was allowed to go to the prison to visit and support the perpetrator, but we shouldn’t have had that ‘shoved in our faces’ and potentially the faces of the victim’s family. His lack of empathy was condemned.

But could the bigger issue be that this public statement of support for a prisoner grates on society’s sensitivities? The general ‘mantra’ is that prisons are places best kept out of sight and out of mind. The prisoners themselves are dehumanised. Look

at my language above and you’ll quickly see what I mean: ‘offender’, ‘prisoner’, ‘perpetrator’. We quickly forget prisoners are people! We are talking about someone’s son. His name is Kieren. First and foremost, he is a person. A person that has made a terrible mistake—which he is now paying for—and, no doubt, he will carry around the guilt for the rest of his life.

Almost everyone comes back from prison and into the community so we, as a community, should be interested in what happens behind closed doors.

For Christians, the motivation for this can be directly related to the very words of Jesus: ‘I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me’ (Matthew 25:36). For some people, this literally means responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and visiting those in prison on a regular basis; some as chaplains, as

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mentors, or as pen pals. For all of us, it should give us a moment to pause and ask God what the condition of our own hearts is towards those who we consider least, and are esteemed not.

We all have our part to play.

Jesse Caulfield is the chaplaincy coordinator of Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy which provides pastoral care for people inside Queensland Prisons. They also provide post-release mentoring in partnership with local Christian churches.

You can find out more at www. insideoutchaplaincy.org.au

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1:27 pm

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. qb_Jun

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

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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/

www.qb.org. au 18/04/2016

11:19 am

BWAA

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LITTLE BOOK...

BIG IDEAS! What if I told you that learning to read could lead to raising goats?

Imagine that you have a physical disability and live in a remote village in Nepal. You own very little land, so growing enough food to eat can be difficult … and you have four children to feed.

to join a literacy class, she was very excited to start learning. It was hard work. But for Shyamkala, it’s all been worth it.

This is what life is like for Shyamkala Dhobi.

After she finished her training, Shyamkala took a loan from the community savings group and bought two goats. She has the self-belief and skills she needs to run her own small business. And it’s all because she can read and do basic calculations! With her determination to create a better life for herself and her family, Shyamkala has since turned her two goats into seven. Better still, Shyamkala’s business is doing so well that her husband doesn’t need to work in India anymore.

Her goats are helping to feed her family!

In order to support their young children, Shyamkala and her husband have had to make some really hard choices. To find seasonal work, Shyamkala’s husband often had to leave his family and travel to India.

But then Shyamkala learned to read and write—and everything changed!

Like many people in her village, Shyamkala has spent most of her life not knowing how to read or write. So when Baptist World Aid Australia’s Christian field partner invited her

‘I am able to speak confidently; I am able to read, write and do simple calculation,’ she said.

For Shyamkala, the Big Gift of Adult Literacy means more than knowing how to read and write … it means having the confidence to buy a goat and start a profitable business … it means feeding her family and having her husband at home. For Shyamkala, your Big Gifts are about the bigger picture.

Choose a Big Gift that will help a mum like Shyamkala learn to read. Go to baptistworldaid.org.au/literacytraining Samara Linehan Communications Coordinator Baptist World Aid Australia Image: When you choose an Adult Literacy Big Gift, you do more than help women like Shyamkala learn to read and write… you give them the skills they need to start a small business!

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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PERSECUTION BRIEF

PLEASE PRAY!

FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH AROUND THE WORLD

Pray for Christians who are being persecuted for their faith in many countries around the world.

China In July, Chinese authorities reportedly ordered churches to close in Hangzhou, in Zhejiang Province. They did so in light of the G20 summit [which was held in early September]. They banned large-scale religious activity and house churches from meeting during the summit. Their reason was to ‘create a safe environment’ for world leaders when they met.

Zhejiang Province has a strong Christian presence. It’s also the area where over 1,200 crosses have been pulled from churches since 2013.

Christian human rights lawyer Li Guisheng said this decision had no basis in Chinese law. He said, ‘I cannot understand why they have done this…

Worshipping God has nothing to do with the G20 summit.’

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

In late August, five Christian prisoners were released from prison in Hangzhou.

They were arrested earlier in 2016 for alleged ‘disturbance of public order and obstruction of government administration’. One local resident told Christian charity ChinaAid, ‘I feel like the government is trying to pacify the people before the summit…

The government began to worry that they have detained the Christians for too long. The local government was concerned about petitions organised by the family members. (They thought) higher officials would pressure them.’

This is just one of many recent incidents of persecution in China.

In July, a Human Rights report was released by the UK Foreign Office. The report highlighted cases of Christian persecution in China. It mentioned the ongoing pressure on ‘underground’ religious groups and the large number of churches being destroyed. It also mentioned Christians being detained for opposing the removal of crosses from churches.

Persecution analyst for World Watch Research, Thomas Muller, isn’t surprised.

‘This has happened before and it will continue to happen… Christians are the largest social group not controlled by the Communist Party, they can be perceived as a threat to the rulers.’

Religious expression in China has opened up since the 1990s. However, the persecution of religious groups, including Christians, continues today.

China is ranked as the 33rd hardest place to live as a Christian, according to the 2016 Open Doors World Watch List. The World Watch List is an annual report ranking the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted.

SOURCE: OPEN DOORS https://opendoorsblog.org/ (excerpt)

PHOTOGRAPHIC & ART COMPETITION

Baplink has recently moved into new offices at the QB Centre, Brisbane, and we would like to fill our walls with representations of Queensland Baptists, by Queensland Baptists. We are inviting all photographers and artists to contribute to the Baplink Photographic and Art Competition.

Photographers of any age and experience can get involved.

The theme for the Baplink Photographic & Art Competition is to capture the growth of Queensland Baptist Churches, through its people, place or buildings.

We will be awarding the following prizes: First Prize Adult: $150 Koorong voucher Second Prize Adult: $100 Koorong voucher Third Prize Adult: $50 Koorong voucher First Prize Child: $150 Koorong voucher Second Prize Child: $100 Koorong voucher Third Prize Child: $50 Koorong voucher

Please submit your photograph or image of your artwork to Baplink at baplink@baplink.org.au or PO Box 6166 Mitchelton QLD 4053 by 31 December 2016.

Winning artworks and photographs will be displayed at the Baplink office at 37 Redgum Place, Gaythorne, and announced in the February issue of The qb magazine.

Join the growing number of Baptists making a difference by partnering with Baplink–a ministry of Queensland Baptists. Baplink provides the means to make money work for the Kingdom of God by offering a range of services for Queensland Baptist individuals, churches and affiliated organisations. Through Baplink, you can finance your vision for outreach and ministry! Baplink works because people are willing to invest their money, as well as their time and prayers, in the ministry and projects of their local church. From its pool of funds, Baplink offers concessional loans to churches, ministers and Queensland Baptists’ facilities and projects, such as aged care facilities, church worship centres, schools, community welfare and more.

Full terms and conditions on our website and on the entry form.

1800 650 062 baplink@baplink.org.au www.baplink.org.au

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REVIEWS: BOOKS, DVDS, MUSIC

CD: THE VERY NEXT THING CASTING CROWNS $16.99 AT KOORONG

The Very Next Thing is Casting Crown’s 15th release and eighth studio album since their label debut release in 2003. With more than nine million records sold, the band currently holds the position as Billboard’s topselling act in Christian music since 2007. Casting Crowns began in, serves in, and continues to be rooted in the local church. It is at the local level that they are walking along with people in ministry and where the inspiration for albums are formed. “Because we have the honour of walking with people in our churches, we get to see what people are going through - the issues that are impacting everyone now,” shares front man Mark Hall. “It is in these situations that ideas are born for what we all need to hear right here right now.” The Very Next Thing is full of intimate songs as well as upbeat, fresh sounding tracks.

It will meet the listener with lyrics that impact with a strong message, song after song.

- Koorong BOOK: HOW GOD BECAME KING N.T.WRIGHT $24.99 AT KOORONG

In this powerful re-reading of the Gospels, N T Wright peels away centuries of misreading to reveal the neglected central story of Scripture that the coronation of God through the acts of Jesus was the climax of human history. Wright helps readers to re-align their focus to God’s kingdom now, rather than the afterlife.

New edition. 304 pages, from Harper Collins.

- Koorong

BOOK: THE REWIRED BRAIN DR. SKI CHILTON $19.99 AT KOORONG

What if unleashing the power of your mind could help you live your best life?

“The creative and brilliantly wired mind of scientist and author Dr. Ski Chilton again boldly explores human behaviour potential in his insightful latest book, The ReWired Brain--a provocative mental journey.”--Charles (Cash) McCall, MD, professor of translational science and molecular medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine “Change--honest, God-honouring change--is difficult! It seems at times the Christian community oscillates between two extremes: religious denial or the insanity of just trying harder to be better.

The ReWired Brain instead gives hope and practical insights into how we can get ‘unstuck’ in life. Having spent over thirty years counselling, I would strongly recommend this creative contribution to the battle for wholeness and holiness.”-Dr. Ted Roberts, bestselling author, pastor, and certified sexual addiction counsellor Trade negative thinking for confident, fearless living Most of us don’t realize we have a surprising amount of control over our own thoughts and behaviours. While unconscious feelings and reactions from our past can unintentionally influence our behaviours negatively, there’s good news. We have a great capacity to call upon the parts of our brain responsible for intentional choices in order to end destructive cycles, live well, and become our best selves.

www.koorong.com OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

The ReWired Brain offers you a clear framework for understanding your brain and the decisions you make. It shows how certain fears and instincts can drive unhealthy emotional dysfunctions and related behavioural patterns in the most meaningful areas of your life. Most importantly, it shows how to reframe your negative experiences, overcome your fears, experience emotional and spiritual healing, and ultimately rewire your brain, empowering you to be free and to live fearlessly.

- Publisher DVD: GOD’S NOT DEAD 2 (454430) $24.99 AT KOORONG

From the college classroom of GOD’S NOT DEAD to the public square in GOD’S NOT DEAD 2, the name of Jesus is welcomed less and less with each passing day. If Christians don’t take a stand today, will we even have a choice tomorrow?

When Grace Wesley, a Christian teacher in a public school, is asked an honest question about Jesus in the classroom, her reasoned response lands her in big trouble - almost before she finishes giving her answer. As the principal and superintendent join forces with a zealous civil liberties group, Grace faces an epic court case that could cost her the career she loves and expel God from the classroom - and the public square - once and for all!

GOD’S NOT DEAD 2 is the sequel to the beloved GOD’S NOT DEAD and features an all-star cast including Melissa Joan Hart, Jesse Metcalfe, David A.R. White, Hayley Orrantia, Ernie Hudson, Sadie Robertson, Robin Givens, the late Fred Thompson, with Pat Boone and Ray Wise, and a special appearance by Newsboys!

GOD’S NOT DEAD 2 is a powerful call to action. Where will you stand?

- Koorong

FUN ZONE

SUBSCRIPTION FORM 2016

The voice

Do you pass on your copy of The qb after you’ve read it?

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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. 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/

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ISSN: 10000 published approved Print post sland Baptist - first The Queen Vol 13 Issue 5.

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1

Price: 1 Year $19.50 (GST inclusive) ORDER BY PHONE: 07 3354 5633 - Payment via credit card.

COMPLETE THIS FORM & POST BACK: The qb Editor, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton QLD 4053 Australia

SUDOKU CHALLENGE Sudoku rules: Each row, column and block must contain one of the numbers from 1 to 9. No number may appear more than once in any row, column or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid, the puzzle is solved.

Sukodu solutions to: QB Magazine, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053

PERSONAL DETAILS

Two correct entries will be chosen to receive a Koorong voucher. Don’t forget to include your full name and contact details.

Rev / Dr / Mr / Mrs / Ms / Miss (circle)

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Email PAYMENT DETAILS

Congratulations to (Greg Smith) and (Des & Betty Gagen) a $30 Koorong voucher is coming your way!

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EVERYONE …

LOOK FOR LITTLE LUCY! Little Lucy is hiding somewhere.

Have fun seeking her out.

Congratulations! To all those who found Little Lucy hiding on page 29 (Aug/Sep 2016 issue).

46

CLASSIFIEDS

POSITIONS VACANT

BOARD VACANCY Do you want to use your skills in governance to make a difference in the world’s poorest communities?

Transform Aid International Ltd is an international Christian aid and development organisation, committed to empowering the world’s poor to lift themselves out of poverty. Through our wholly owned subsidiary, Baptist World Aid Australia Ltd, we partner with Christians and churches in Australia, particularly those from the Baptist movement, in generous giving, ethical consumption, courageous advocacy and faithful prayer in order to achieve justice for people living in poverty.

As a voluntary Board Member you will have the opportunity to provide your expertise and contribute to this crucial function of the organisation. You will be serving on our Programs Performance Committee (PPC). The term of this appointment will be 6 years. Most meetings are held in Sydney.

For more information on how to apply, and a copy of the Board Member description, please visit www.baptistworldaid.org.au/ about/careers Please send all applications to Phil Newman (HRGC Chair) at phil.n.newman@gmail.com Please note: TAI is a child safe organisation and as such all Board members will be required to undergo a police check and a working with children check.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE - QUEENSLAND Transform Aid International Ltd is an international Christian aid and development organisation, committed to empowering the world’s poor to lift themselves out of poverty. Through our wholly owned subsidiary, Baptist World Aid Australia Ltd, we partner with Christians and churches in Australia, particularly those from the Baptist movement, in generous giving, ethical consumption, courageous advocacy and faithful prayer in order to achieve justice for people living in poverty.

The State Representative will build strong relationships between BWAA and churches in Queensland, working to help them develop a biblical response to poverty and to utilise BWAA as a partner in doing so. The State Representative also maintains ongoing relationships with major donors and other key supporters. This role is based in Queensland, and will require travel, both interstate and overseas.

To Apply: Please complete the application form found on our website www. baptistworldaid.org.au/about/careers and send it along with your CV by email to recruitment@baptistworldaid.org.au.

Applications will close on Friday 11th November 2016.

Applicants shortlisted for interview will be contacted by 18th November 2016.

Please note: TAI is a child safe organisation and as such all Board members will be required to undergo a police check and a working with children check.

OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU

CLASSIFIEDS

POSITIONS VACANT PART TIME PASTOR AGNES WATER/TOWN OF 1770, QUEENSLAND A growing coastal tourist destination is seeking Our God appointed Parttime Pastor to lead a small, but thriving Contemporary Baptist Church. A demonstrated theologically sound application of the Word is desired. If this is you and would like a Pastoral Package, contact: John Whitehead nobodylives@startmail.com

ASSISTANT PASTOR ANNERLEY BAPTIST CHURCH ABC is a multi-ethnic community following Jesus. Do you love to hear the words “Make it happen”? We are looking for a person with a heart for ministry, and administrative skills to help us put our vision into action. The role is 1.5 2 days per week and involves collaborating in a multi-ethnic context.

FULL TIME SENIOR PASTOR MACKAY BAPTIST CHURCH Mackay Baptist Church is seeking a full-time Senior Pastor to work together with the current full time Associate Pastor and church leadership to grow and disciple the church family with solid Bible teaching and spiritual leadership. We are a Bible centred, family oriented and multicultural church with a mission statement to be “passionate lovers of God and others”.

The successful person will be a Godly leader with a passion for evangelism and discipleship, as well as having a vision for further church growth & change.

To express your interest in this position please contact George Williams on 0432 119 930 or email pastorsearch@mackaybaptist.org.au

47

CHRISTIAN SINGLES

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Register with Integrity Travel.

For more information go to www.integritytravel.com.au.

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.

CALOUNDRA: Sunshine Coast, Qld, beachside units from $400/wk, ph 0427 990 161.

FAIRFIELD CHRISTIAN FAMILY: Fairfield Christian Family (www.fcfchurch.org.au) is located in a vibrant inner city suburb close to universities. There are currently three vacancies for males (students or workers) in a share accommodation house adjacent to the church. Please contact Pastor Neil Pattemore, ph 0435 065 035 or tarragindipats@yahoo.com.au.

FOR HIRE FULL TIME PASTOR TOOWONG BAPTIST CHURCH Toowong Baptist Church is seeking a pastor.

Our evening congregation (TBC at 5) plant has just celebrated its first birthday and now requires a full time pastor. The congregation is a growing, outwardly focussed group of believers who come from a range of nationalities and are predominantly (although not limited to) young adults.

General pastoral responsibilities are required including preaching/teaching, evangelism, mentoring and pastoral care. Although some autonomy is expected, there is scope to work as a team and as such the role can be tailored to the applicant’s gifting.

TBC at 5 was planted out of our vision to be an international, multiplying Christian community. TBC at 5’s founding vision and direction is drawn from 1 John 4:19.

Those with a passion for church planting, evangelism, serving our community and have demonstrated proven gifts in preaching and leadership are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to applicants who are registered or ordained Baptist ministers. Please send expressions of interest to Zee Zhang (zee. zhang87@gmail.com) for a full position description and application pack.

LARGE AUDITORIUM: Seats 290. Queensland Baptists’ Centre at Gaythorne. Phone Sharon, 07 3354 5600 for more information or visit www.qb.com.au – venue hire.

INTEGRITY TRAVEL

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OCT/NOV 2016 ::: QB.ORG.AU