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intrasyd People, Places & Events in Greater Sydney NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2014
Computer & English Classes at Russian Church
“Yes We Care” Waitara’s Outreach
Bryan’s Testimony: The First Time I Heard Jesus’ Name Warrimoo Craft Outreach Group
YEAR OF EVANGELISM
As a young child, I remember being taught in Sabbath School that when we get to heaven, we would receive a crown with stars representing all the souls we’ve saved. This idea was reaffirmed in the old hymn, “Will there be any stars, any stars in my crown, When at evening the sun goeth down?” I also remember thinking, how could I receive any stars, as I’m not an evangelist or a preacher or in fact a teacher? These ideas came back to me this week at staff worship when we talked about unsung heroes -- those among us who work in support roles, who never seek the limelight but work in the background ensuring that all that we do as a church or at one of our schools or aged care facilities run as smoothly as possible. These unsung heroes surely and equally deserve stars in their crowns!
While the Constituency Meeting is now a distant memory, its ramifications continue. In accordance with the Constitution, we have been busy appointing all the new board directors (for Church Ltd, Schools Ltd and Aged Care Ltd), committees, sub-committees and advisories for the next four years. In addition, new school councils have also been appointed which will commence their work in the new year with current councils continuing through to year end. A number of lay members are carrying over from the last quadrennium to provide for continuity. Appreciation is expressed to all those, whether incumbent or new, who have willingly taken up a voluntary position on one of these boards or committees. Your commitment of time and your sharing of wisdom and expertise is very much valued and appreciated. Highlights from Church Ltd Board • Regular reports are still being received from the 17 venues that ran The Last Empire program commencing 29
Eva Ing, Chief Financial Officer
I’d like to especially mention a special group of unsung heroes, and they are our treasurers, assistant treasurers and stewardship secretaries who serve us so faithfully. These are indeed unsung heroes, as their roles have significant responsibilities -- receipting all tithes and offerings, depositing funds each week, monthly reporting to the Conference, performing bank reconciliations, preparing reports for their Church boards and for business meetings -- all work done in the background but important and necessary for churches to function effectively. My thanks and encouragement goes to you for all your good work. God sees and values what we do, and no doubt when we all get to heaven, we will hear these words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”
Adrian Raethel, General Secretary August and involved 20 churches. • The draft budget for 2015 has been received. The level of pastoral staffing has not changed with 59.35 field budgets allocated in 2015, including the chaplains (both school and aged care). Highlights from the Executive Committee • The Holroyd Group was organised into a Company on 25 October. This congregation, consisting mostly of Zimbabweans, meets in the Merrylands Uniting Church. • $1.9 million in grants has been approved from the State and Federal governments through the Block Grant Authority towards capital works at Hills Adventist College, Macarthur Adventist College and Mountain View Adventist College in 2015. These projects will commence construction in 2015. • Planning approval for the Wahroonga School relocation, including the development of the high school, will go on public exhibition for 4 weeks commencing 6 November. Applications for year 7, commencing in 2016, are now open subject to receiving DA approval and the construction certificate.
OFFERING SCHEDULE
SUNSET TIMES Friday 5 December Sabbath 6 December Friday 12 December Sabbath 13 December Friday 19 December Sabbath 20 December Friday 26 December
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7:54 pm 7:55 pm 8:00 pm 8:00 pm 8:04 pm 8:05 pm 8:07 pm
Sabbath 27 December Friday 2 January Sabbath 3 January Friday 9 January Sabbath 10 January Friday 16 January Sabbath 17 January
8:08 pm 8:09 pm 8:09 pm 8:10 pm 8:10 pm 8:08 pm 8:08 pm
November - December 2014 \ www.gscadventist.org.au
Sabbath 6 December Sabbath 13 December Sabbath 20 December Sabbath 27 December Sabbath 3 January Sabbath 10 January Sabbath 17 January
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Mission Extension Local Education Local Local Local Local
Michael Worker, President What opportunities exist in your church and community to partner with the Greater Sydney Conference to plant strategically-located, mission-driven, healthy church plants in Sydney? If you are interested, contact Pastor Sven Östring on 9868 6522. Solomon Island Partnership Kellyville Church, in conjunction with Hills Adventist College, has recently returned from a visit to Tenakoga, Solomon Islands, where they renovated and expanded the facilities at the local Adventist school. Participants on the trip have commented how amazed they were by how much can be achieved with so few resources. There are many opportunities for churches to serve in the Solomon Islands and to provide resources. Maybe God is calling you to organise a team of people to go and serve in the Solomon Islands through building and maintenance, through preaching or through many other opportunities that exist. If you would like to plan a trip to the Solomon Islands, please feel free to contact me at the Greater Sydney Conference office. Pastor Alex Currie has just coordinated the loading and sending of a 40-foot container to Tenakoga, and they are now gearing up to send another 20-foot container with the overflow of resources. If you would like to give towards the cost of purchasing and shipping the container, please make donations through the finance team at the Conference Office. For delivery of clothing contact Marge Batchelor 9481 4454. The year is rapidly coming to a conclusion. The Christmas gifts and decorations are everywhere, and soon we will be welcoming in a new year. What opportunities do you have to make disciples in 2015? What is God calling you to do to serve Him in your home, your work place, your school, your local community or in service in the Solomon Islands? What decisions do you need to make now so that these dreams can become reality? God bless you as you continue to serve God in your daily life.
Next Intrasyd Deadline 08 JANUARY
Editor: Assistant Editor: Design: Editorial Consultant:
Michael Worker Rachel Lemons Aitken Rachel Lemons Aitken Adrian Raethel
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sydney@adventist.org.au PH: (02) 9868 6522 Fax: (02) 9868 6533 4 Cambridge Street Epping 2121
inside this issue
Growing in Discipleship has a key focus in the area of Reach Out. The Last Empire, which has been a key focus of our Reach Out strategy in recent years, has once again been a blessing in Greater Sydney. In August/September, 17 venues went live with the evangelistic series right across Sydney. We have heard some wonderful reports from the venues of contacts made and decisions being made to become part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. On 26 September, I had the privilege of baptising three people at Ryde Church. One of the men baptised had his first contact with the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 2013 when he attended the Last Empire series. His testimony tells of wandering from church to church seeking a church that taught the Bible accurately as he sought to know and understand the Bible. Church Planting Planting new churches in parts of our city where there is a growth corridor and where we don’t have a strong presence is a key part of our strategy in Sydney over the coming years. In the last few days, it has been exciting to meet with church planters for both the Sans Souci and the Schofields areas. The challenge is to have enough resources to enable all of these churches to proceed in a healthy and vibrant way, however, we are confident that the Lord will provide the means for these churches to thrive and grow once they are launched. Last week, I also met with a pastor of a relatively new, smallgroup-based church plant, and he shared with me that that there is the potential for two new small-group-based church plants to be launched from his church in the next few months. These two new church plants will be lay-driven with training and coaching being provided by their current pastor.
Yes We Care page 4 The First Time I Heard Jesus’ Name page 5 Maxine’s Testimony page 6 BREATHE Conference page 8 Pastoral
Appointments
page 14-15
Correction Conference Appointments Committee Mrs Vione Beyers (Blacktown) was incorrectly listed as a member of the new Conference Appointments Committee. This should have read David Jack (Kellyville).
ON THE COVER: Victoria McIntosh of Waitara Church during the Yes We Care outreach program. Photo Credit: Lidija Balaz Greater Sydney Conference Communication Department
www.gscadventist.org.au / November - December 2014 3
Year of Evangelism
“Yes We Care” Waitara’s Outreach Initiative Waitara Church recently star ted a new outreach initiative operating under the name “Yes We Care.” This initiative involves engaging with the community in the streets immediately surrounding the church to find practical ways in which the church can help satisfy the community¹s needs. By doing so, friendships can be built that lead people to Christ. Church members first go door-to-door in the surrounding streets offering simple services, such as house cleaning and yard work. The services are offered on a no-strings-attached basis simply because the church cares for its community and desires to follow in the steps of Christ. Those who have gone door-to-door have been surprised at the community response. People are normally amazed by the offer of assistance and those in need willingly accept. Even those who don¹t need assistance frequently congratulate the church for engaging with the community. So far, the door-to-door experience has also helped to inspire those who normally shy away from door knocking for any cause, as very few people respond negatively to genuine offers of selfless assistance. A week later, a team of red-shirted workers goes out to do the various jobs requested. The group¹s aim is to connect and build relationships with the home owners while the teams do the required work. In doing so, God has blessed with some amazing results. A number of
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people have commented that they have never been helped by a church before, even their own church. Recently, members of a family, who were helped on a number of occasions by a team led by Waitara’s assistant pastor, Pr David Cherry, attended church on Sabbath. Many others have volunteered that they would like to come to church some day. In participating in the program, church members have been able to pray with many of the people whom they have helped. They have also had people come to the point of tears in gratitude and have had people volunteer that they would like to come to church. The red t-shirts have also attracted positive attention from passersby who take the group¹s details for people they know to be in need. Waitara has been encouraged with how God has led with this new initiative and hopes to continue to repeat it regularly. The church also hopes to steadily increase the services offered so that more church members’ talents can be put to use through acts of service to reach out to those who need Jesus. Wahroonga Church has recently embraced this method of outreach as well and has had similar experiences in its local community. Both churches have also noted the added blessing that it inspires members of all ages and demographics they can play a role in winning souls for Christ.
November - December 2014 \ www.gscadventist.org.au
James Willison
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Chatterpotz
Warrimoo Craft Group Outreach In 1998 or 99, we star ted a prayer group. With the normal cycle of groups, by 2002 or 2003, members of the group began to go their separate ways. As this was happening, we decided we should do more for people outside of our group. We brainstormed ideas about how to reach people who aren’t religious at all. We started out with an old favourite –cooking demonstrations. Some members had done this before but always without follow-up - a capital mistake for creating lasting connections. We struggled to think of an idea that allowed for follow-up. After much thinking, we settled on Chatterpotz becoming a craft group. Quilting became the
main activity with a little knitting and crocheting, but the sewing machines have always held the upper hand. Through word-of-mouth this soon grew to about fourteen regular attendees. To this day, we continue to gain members through word-of-mouth. Friends bring other friends. We meet on the first and third Thursday of the month in our church hall. Attendees pay five dollars per person to cover running costs of the hall, including electricity, gas and cleaning. Attendance is on a drop-in, drop-out basis. Instead of teaching, members of the group help each other and give advice – it could be a sewing problem, someone wanting to learn to knit or crochet or someone looking
for help with cutting or assembling a particular pattern for a quilt or dress. Oftentimes the facilitator, Anna Sijnstra, does not have time to work on her own project because so many people ask for advice as the day goes on. But this type of collaboration is what makes the atmosphere very friendly, along with the fact that Anna bakes a fresh cake for every meeting to be enjoyed by all over a cuppa. Over the years, we have befriended many. People learn about us, know why we go to church on Sabbath, and we serve a community need. Praise God!
Eddie Sijnstra
Bryan’s Testimony: “The First Time I Heard Jesus’ Name” I was born in a place where most people are Buddhist. However, I never imagined God as Buddha, not even as a small child. For this reason, I never believed in Buddhism. The first time I heard the name “Jesus Christ” was from my grandma. I was curious. I wondered what kind of God He is. Maybe someone dressed in white and surrounded by light? I didn’t know. My wife is Christian. Because I wanted to get to know her more deeply, I started to get to know more about Jesus. We began to study the Bible and pray together. Over time, the Bible became a very important part of my life. I was no longer going to church every week because of my wife. Instead, I was going because I believed and had faith in Jesus Christ. As a result, our life has
been blessed by God. He has granted us everything we have prayed for.
We’ve seen God work in various ways in our life, confirming that we are God’s choice for each other. We’ve seen it through the way He’s worked out my wife’s visa situation and in the way He led us to a church. We asked God to lead us to the church He
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wanted us to attend. We started our search on Google. The first address that appeared was Stanmore Adventist Church so we decided to go there. It was amazing to see things planned by God. Initially, I was doubtful and unsure if it was the place God wanted us. Amazingly, the day we attended, someone was getting baptised! After the baptism, Pastor Igor asked if anyone else wanted to be baptised. I felt like God was calling me in that moment. Without hesitation, I stood up and walked to the stage. Since then, I’ve had a Bible study every week with Pastor Igor. On 18 October, I was baptised. Deep down inside, I know Stanmore Church is where God wants me.
Bryan Zhang
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Year of Evangelism
Maxine’s Testimony: Experiencing the Holy Spirit at Crosslands
Relocating from New Zealand to Crosslands Youth & Convention Centre Sydney brought some huge changes for me. Previously, I worked in the Inland Revenue Department as a Working for Families Officer, as well as a Victim Support worker. As part of management support at Crosslands, my role is vastly different. In times of frustration, I have questioned God on the relevance my new role has in His scheme of things, and what His purpose is for me. Recently, God allowed me to have an experience that clearly opened my eyes, so with consent, I share a condensed personal account from our own camp ground. We were hosting a weeklong camp for a vibrant, Spirit-filled people, who are on fire for God. They are fulfilling His mission to spread the Gospel, within the current Conference focus of Reach Up, Reach Out and Reach Across. Beginning Friday afternoon, a baptism of four young people took place; a call was extended for others to commit their hearts to Jesus and be baptised. Though I did not witness it, I was later informed that one young person, who made the decision to live their life for Christ, came under demonic attack. Numerous mission stories depict the spiritual journeys of individuals called by the Spirit. They also tell of the road blocks Satan creates to thwart their decision to
surrender their hearts to Christ. For the most part, these encounters were merely stories to me. I believed them; I simply had no tangible concept of the reality of spiritual warfare that surrounded me. And so I moved on with the business of the day. On their scheduled day of departure, I experienced the unexpected. Following sounds of distress, I encountered a church family gently cradling the adolescent under demonic attack to avoid physical harm. As I stood observing the scene, I was struck with a sense of ‘Fight or Flight.’ I reminded myself, you are not part of the group; you are a facilitator, no reason to be involved. However, the fervency of the young people, especially a young man speaking with spiritual maturity beyond his years, compelled me to wait and pray. The demonic presence damned and threatened individuals for their sins, “I’m getting close to your daughter.” Threats that would no doubt shake a parent’s confidence. During lulls between accusations, the demonic voice gently and melodiously sang “Cuckoo - Cuckoo - Cuckoo,” mocking our faith. Committed to praying & singing, scepticism plagued me. Streams of thoughts ran through my mind, “Could they be faking it?” Unexpectedly I heard a call, “Maxine, you think you’re okay, don’t you?” An outstretched arm beckoned me to take their hand, “Come and speak
to me Maxine. You want to speak to me don’t you? Come.” “Whoa this was my reality check.” Doubt and scepticism were repelled in an instant. In that moment, I began repeating my power hymn, “There is Power in the Blood.” Satan became a reality. “He knows my name,” I told my husband later. During the following weeks, the demonic attacks on the young person continued, but through the power of the Holy Spirit and invaluable practical and spiritual support from church folk, the young person was freed from demonic torment. The family acknowledged their appreciation for Crosslands’ staff support and for the spiritual environment where their child felt compelled by the Holy Spirit to give their heart to Jesus. I am reminded by Pastors and Principals of Christian Schools that Christian camp employees, committed to creating environments such as Crosslands, should never underestimate their value. We have a part in the Lord’s work -- to facilitate powerful environments where the Spirit of God is able to teach and to call young people to Christ. Whilst Satan may know my name, God knows my name and has my heart; my relevance is found in Him. My purpose is to serve others.
Maxine Hill
Bankstown Church Baby Blessing The Bankstown congregation, with the Gibson and Opetaia families, welcomed the new arrival of baby Billie Rita Avalya at a Dedication Service held by Pastor Duane Haora on 13 September. Parents Billy and Jane Opetaia, with
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November - December 2014 \ www.gscadventist.org.au
their other children, Anthony, JaymeLei & Jazmyn, made a commitment to following the Lord and gave thanks for the blessing of family.
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Billy Opetaia
Computer & English Classes at Sydney Russian Church Each January, the Sydney Russian founding members, commented, “This Church places 2 ads in Sydney’s largest is a good way for the church to reach Russian-language newspaper. One ad out to the community. Students come invites students for conversational from all over Sydney and at times the English Classes, the other for basic Central Coast. Some travel over two Computer Classes. Running for hours. One student commented she twelve years, the English classes take has two English classes closer to her place each Tuesday from 11:00 am home, but she comes here because -1:00 pm. The Computer Classes, which have been running for seven years, are run by Pr Igor Shemet on Fridays. They are split into two sections: one runs from 9:30 am – 11:00 am. The second runs from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Students from the Computer Class are invited to stay for morning tea and a Bible study. Sometimes they opt to stay longer or come early to participate. Both the English & Computer Classes run free of charge of the atmosphere, friendship and for the students. because she feels very comfortable.” In 2001, Mrs Galina Like the English Class, the Kashtanova presented the Church her Computer Class meets a real need. vision of reaching out to the Russian Pr. Igor Shemet recounts an Englishcommunity through English Classes. language student asking him to help This proposal was strongly supported with a computer problem. Pr. Igor by Paul Belan (the Russian Church agreed. The man suggested, “You minister at the time) as well as by should start a Computer Class.” Pr. other members and was therefore Igor thought it was a good idea but quickly adopted. too complicated. A Computer Class Helen Rodionoff, one of the requires computers. Where would
he get them? To test his theory, he approached the Conference Office. Surprisingly, they provided the computers, and the Computer Classes were born. In addition to teaching skills, the Sydney Russian Church aims to connect with students personally. Students are invited to a church picnic, as well as a New Years and Easter program. English Class teachers and Pr. Igor aim to maintain contact with students outside of class. Recently, a man had a hip operation and hasn’t been coming to class. Helen phoned him, and is planning a visit soon with her daughter Natasha, who is also a volunteer teacher in the program. Another woman from class is very ill with cancer. Helen says she and her husband have visited a few times, and now she is in contact with them and prays for them over the telephone. Natasha notes, “Mom supports students a lot over the phone and prays with them.” Other teachers also keep in contact with students past and present. Pr. Igor says, “Over the years, we have built a good relationship with people.”
“Inviting Friends to Church” at Sydney Korean Church Recently, the Sydney Korean Church presented a service run by the children and youth that included singing, memory verses and testimonies from three of the youth. Organiser Elizabeth Kim’s daughter said a prayer and memory verse during the service. Though initially she struggled to memorise the prayer and verse, after sleeping on it, the Sabbath morning of the service, she ran to her mom and said “Mummy, I managed to memorise it!” When Elizabeth asked how she managed, she said, “I practiced it in my dream!” Elizabeth recounts that she “absolutely enjoyed it!” During the planning process, the church decided to invite the children’s best friends to attend the service and cheer them on. Elizabeth Kim said, “This was a really good Like www.facebook.com/sydneyadventists
opportunity to expose our church to the public through our children. It’s really hard to invite them to any normal service; they’ll feel too uncomfortable to join us. However, if it’s for children, with a pure heart, I think any family will not feel as pressured. Some of the families who came are non-Christian. All the families who came seemed to really enjoy it.” For this congregation steeped in tradition, the change in service was groundbreaking. Elizabeth said, “This event broke through the tradition. Now, we are focusing more on the children. They need to be nurtured. They are the ones who will lead the church in the future. It’s important to do these kinds of events so they can contribute to the community even at a very young age.”
www.gscadventist.org.au / November - December 2014 7
Year of Evangelism
“She Rises” BREATHE Adventist Women’s Conference The beautiful surroundings and setting of the Collaroy Centre was the backdrop for a truly inspiring weekend for BREATHE 2014 - the Adventist Women’s Conference of the Greater Sydney Conference. The theme this year was “She Rises,” based on Isaiah 40: 31 “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall RISE up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” The weekend celebrated women who have risen up and out of their circumstances by the power of God and who are now living testimonies of God’s grace to others. Speaker Brenda Walsh engaged the women with the most riveting and encouraging personal stories as testimonies of the power and grace of God moving and working in her life. There were many tears and much laughter. We were encouraged, moved and challenged by all of her presentations. On Saturday night, Brenda spent hours signing her book Battered to Blessed, which sold out in no time. Brenda Walsh was “She Rises” personified. The Centre provided great facilities like the beautiful chapel that housed the OASIS, our dedicated prayer room, which was open 24/7. Our Prayer Support team was available in the Oasis around the clock on a roster basis. The Oasis, the home for all the devotional sessions, was beautifully
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themed and decorated. It provided dedicated prayer sessions where a range of areas were prayed for, such as children, unbelieving husbands, marriages and relationships, healing, employment and finances. At 5 am on both Sabbath and Sunday morning, the Prayer Support Team facilitated annointing services and served over 80 women of all ages. Our Worship team led us in meaningful worship sessions, providing a wellbalanced vibrant worship experience for both young and old. It was truly heartwarming to see young, vibrant women dedicate their time and talent to serve the body of Christ like these beautiful girls. 2014 saw the birth of a new component to the weekend’s program - our Little Breather’s program a dedicated kid’s program facilitated by the Children’s Ministries’ Department. 21 children enjoyed the all-day, interactive and exciting kid’s program. Mums expressed their appreciation for this facility that allowed them to take part in BREATHE while their children were engaged and taken care of. Each woman at BREATHE was presented with a specially designed and created “She Rises” journal. The beautifully presented book was a compilation of moving stories of Greater Sydney Conference women, who have risen up and out of their circumstances and are living testimonies.
November - December 2014 \ www.gscadventist.org.au
BREATHE offered 5 workshops that were well received with very positive feedback and comments of appreciation for their relevance and impact. Workshops included, Healing in Forgiveness, Understanding the Male Brain, Pathways, Attachments in Relationships and Food for Mood. There was a common criticism in the feedback that it was challenging to have to make a choice as to which workshop to attend. There has been a significant increase in the number of younger women attending the BREATHE Conference. It is encouraging to have younger women embrace and experience the benefits of the “gathering of the girls.” It is wonderful to have women of all generations worship, pray and minister together. It was very exciting to have some new friends join us for the whole weekend. We were delighted to be able to host a number of community women. We had some empty rooms, which we were being charged for so we offered them to Wesley Mission and ADRA Blacktown for clients who would benefit and be blessed by a weekend program, such as BREATHE. Praise God for the opportunity to share the blessing of the “gathering of the girls” with others.
Beryl Landers
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Ministries Learning How to Build the Church Each month, for the past eight months (with the exception of October), a small group, led by Greater Sydney Conference’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM) leader Pr. Johnny Murison, has met in the foyer of the Multi-Purpose Centre at Mountain View Adventist College. They gather to learn how to build the church. Pr. Johnny says, “It’s preparing them. It’s giving them tools within our Three Angels Message context. If you have a baby that’s not growing, it’s not healthy. It’s the same with the church. If your church is not growing, it’s not healthy. ” Topics for the meetings have ranged from “Enemies of the Growing Church,” in which they watched a recorded sermon, to presentations
about “What are Your Spiritual Gifts” and “How to Craft a Bible Study.” In addition to attending the meetings, attendees are encouraged to do some homework, which helps them apply the principles they are learning. These assignments give the attendees a bit of incentive to really grasp what’s being taught. “Many of them have always wanted to give Bible studies to share their faith. Now they have the tools. There are so many Bible studies out there. We are telling them to make it their own – use their own stories and illustrations,” shared Pr. Johnny. Pr. Johnny continued by saying, “We have indigenous members across a few of the churches in the Greater Sydney Conference, like Mountain
View, Penrith and Hoxton Park. My ATSIM Bible worker and I want to train and equip our members based on Ephesians 4:11-13. We have ATSIM regionals, and it’s an event. What we want to do is train our mob during the year so that at the next ATSIM Advisory Council they will bring their contacts, and they will have led someone to Jesus. We hope that the next ATSIM event is a celebration of those bringing others to Christ that translates into baptisms. That is the whole purpose in doing this. We are doing this for people on the ground who are going to church – not just going to church – but actually winning souls for Christ.”
Pathfinders, “Great Way to Learn about God” On the 19th to the 21st of September, the Pathfinders went on an adventurous expedition. It was really fun, but tiring! We all got to sleep out in the bush in little tents with a backpack and a compass. Expedition was a great way to admire and come close with God’s beautiful creation. Joshua Wood was the speaker at Expedition, and he taught us about faith and trust. He also talked about how the population of Pathfinders has increased. Joining Pathfinders is a great way to learn about God and to have fun. Camping and learning skills is great! We can continue to increase our numbers and invite others to join Pathfinders or church. Evangelising and requesting others to give their hearts to God can start with a simple invitation to join Pathfinders or church. Also, Expedition is like our spiritual path with God. It’s like we are planning our goals with God and trying hard to reach the next checkpoint. On the journey, we become
more motivated and sometimes have problems, yet we keep trying to become closer with God, even if the path is unclear or we get lost. The Bible is like our compass as it leads the way that we should be heading. We are thankful to God that He kept us safe and no one got seriously injured. We know that He is in control and will always shelter us under His arm. We would like to thank all the directors and staff that helped put the camp together and those who helped organise and keep us safe during the time. We would also like to thank all the adults who came on the camp to help us and look after us. We made some great memories! We can’t wait for next year; we know it will be a blast!
Jessica Kuo & Renee Baxter
Year of Evangelism
Macarthur Students Head North to Fraser Island As a World Heritage listed site and the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island, located on the southern coast of Queensland, is truly unforgettable. This is the idea Rod Saunders, secondary teacher at Macarthur Adventist College, wanted the Year 10 students to experience and take away on their trip this year. Macarthur Adventist College has been taking a trip with their Year 10 students to Fraser Island for the past five years. This year’s trip saw the group head north for nine days. The team of drivers in 4x4s packed students in and visited several Adventist schools and churches, making a stop at Wet ‘n’ Wild theme park and spending Sabbath at Noosa Head before venturing out to the island. Throughout the trip, students had “secret friends” with whom they exchanged gifts and notes to create a
sense of camaraderie. One student named Devaraai said, “My most memorable and favourite moments of our trip to Fraser were going to the beach for
the first time, swimming and taking photos, eating burritos and spaghetti, setting up and sleeping in our own tents and going to Lake McKenzie, Ocean Lake and the creeks. These are some of my best moments. The other
one was getting to know Dale, Mark, Mrs. Ditmur, Mr. Saunders and family and every one of my classmates. On this trip, I showed my true self who is not afraid or fearful of anything and enjoys being helpful to others. I would say that this whole Fraser Island trip was a memorable moment for me. Cary, another student, said, “My favourite moments in Fraser were going to Wet ’n’ Wild and secret friends. It was fun to secretly buy gifts for my secret friend even though we had recently had an argument. It shows that no matter how bad things get, God will bring them back together. I also liked being on the island itself, swimming and spending time with the class, teachers, Pastor L, Dale, Mr. Saunders, parents and Mark.
Anjuli Cruz
Sydney Adventist Schools Junior Day of Worship
Anjuli Cruz
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The name Colin Buchanan evokes smiles, humming or allout singing from both adults and children alike. Because he hosted the Junior Day of Worship this year at Hills Adventist College, it was a spectacular event. It involved all six Adventist Schools in the Greater Sydney Conference: Auburn, Hills, Hurstville, Macarthur, Mountain View and Wahroonga. There were over 900 students from Kindy through Year 4, as well as teachers, staff, administrators and parents in attendance so the MPC was filled to capacity. The theme for the day was “Give It All.” Students were challenged to give their all to Jesus. This was really brought to life by the title track from Colin Buchanan’s new kids album called The Jesus Hokey Pokey. The program was divided into three parts: Combined Schools Program, Morning Tea Break and The Concert. Students from each of the schools represented at the program led out in various elements of the program, including the welcome, worship songs, prayer time, ice-breakers, special items and multimedia clips. There was also a brief interview with Colin. Both Colin and Mal, better known as Nudge the Puppet, commented how unique this worship event was. They were both deeply impressed and impacted by the fact that multiple schools from across the diverse city of Sydney had come together to worship in unity.
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Hills Adventist College Students Win Young Scientist Awards The National Young Scientist Award is a major project of the Science Teachers’ Association of New South Wales and is sponsored by the University of Wollongong. Since 2013, students of Hills Adventist College have been participating in this event. In fact, in 2013, the school had two winners. This year, it has achieved even better results with Hills Adventist College students achieving recognition and prizes. Josie Jakovac’s (year 9) work on “The effect of various surfactants on the convection process occurring within ferrofluid” has received 1st place in the 9-12 Chemistry Category, as well as being recognised by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute as a project that demonstrates particular ability, skill and promise for chemistry. Josie’s work with ferrofluids has also won her the honour of representing
Australia at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA in 2015. She will attend to present the research she has completed and compete
against the best students in the world. We wish her the best of luck as she competes at this prestigious next level. Timothy Hill’s (Year 9) work on “Taste optimisation of water purification techniques” has received 3rd place in the years 9-12 Chemistry Category. This is an outstanding achievement in which Timothy’s work has surpassed those of students in years 10-12. Anneliese Howie received a Recognition Award in her Primary-aged category. This is quite remarkable, as Anneliese is only in Year 2. Hills Adventist College is very proud of the excellence demonstrated by these students, and wishes them all well as they continue to make their mark on Science.
Maree Worker
Sydney Adventist Schools: Where Education and Community Meet
Jane Caro, co-author of What Makes a Good School?, has spoken on the issue of choosing a school and encourages parents and students to look beyond a school’s achievements to see what relationships and emotional tone a school can offer. “The best schools are the schools that have a studentcentred approach… being studentcentred doesn’t mean giving the student everything they want, it just means they look at the whole child.” Caro also stresses that significance should be placed on children having good relationships with teachers and fellow students. “It is important for the student to feel in tune with the school, not feel like a square peg in a round hole. They need to feel there are people there who understand them,” says Caro. From speaking to enrolment officers, principals, and teachers at the Adventist schools in Sydney,
most agree with Caro’s observations. Principal Michelle Streatfeild at Wahroonga Adventist School says, “We don’t try and convince parents to send their kids here. We show them who we are, and what we offer… and that’s a wholeness approach.” Caro also informed parents to “look for a school that has a sensible approach to children, the way they learn and their abilities. Children learn best when they are engaged and the best learning takes place in a fear-free environment.” This seems to align with Maree Worker, a teacher and parent at Hills Adventist College. Worker says one of the most crucial things people seem to be searching for today is community. “Parents will ask about the academic aspects of the school, but it is never the first thing they ask about. They want to know, ‘Will my child fit in? Is there a community that they can
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be a part of here?” Macarthur Adventist College recently did a blind survey, where students could openly comment on how they feel overall about their school. A few students commented, “There is a clan spirit about this school and everyone in it. I just wish I came earlier because at my old school I felt like crying everyday.” “People care about you. MAC (Macarthur Adventist College) has had a huge impact on who I am today.” “Our teachers believe in us and they want us to go further and succeed not only academically but spiritually too.” [Want to read more on this or look at enrolling your child in one of the Sydney Adventist Schools? More information is available at www. greatersydney.adventist.edu.au]
Anjuli Cruz
www.gscadventist.org.au / November - December 2014 11
Year of Evangelism
Reach Out Outreach & Evangelism in Greater Sydney
Polish Church Welcomes Visitors Because of the European connection, we have a relatively large number of visitors from overseas. In the past, young people from our church have joined forces with other young people, some as far away as Poland, to do volunteer work in India. At least once a month we have a potluck lunch, which people from other congregations and some nonAdventists attend. Everybody is welcome to come and taste some of the delicious Polish dishes and to take part in the afternoon meeting following lunch.
Solomon Islands Outreach
Sydney Portuguese takes CHIP to Brazil Fest
The Sydney Portuguese Church took CHIP on the road to the 6th Annual Ritmo Brazil Fest, where they conducted health checks and collected names for future follow-up.
A team led by Sydney electrician, Brett Partridge and Doctor Alex Currie, recently performed an amazing transformation in the Solomon Islands. The team comprised members from the Kellyville, Thornleigh and Avondale Memorial Churches, fifteen Year 11 students and two teachers from Hills Adventist College. “In the last two weeks of September, Tenakoga Adventist High School has undergone a massive transformation,” said Principal Gibson Apusae. Tenakoga Adventist High School is a Seventh-day Adventist School, located approximately two hours by road from Honiara in North East Guadalcanal.
Impact of Blacktown Church’s Cooking Demos On 9 July 2014, the Blacktown Advocate ran a story about Harry Barker, a Blacktown resident who has recently experienced a major life change after losing about 60 kilos as a result of the Get Healthy NSW program, along with various other support. One thing he credits for supporting him in his transformation is the Vegetarian Cooking Class at the Blacktown Church. Noeleen Mackintosh leads the cooking class, along with a faithful team. Noeleen has either been involved or run the program since 1996. When thinking back on his life over a year ago, Harry says, “I had been eating the wrong foods. I have a friend who had been going to the cooking classes and she took me. I just started the diet by eating good food.” Noeleen recalls meeting Harry’s friend in 2012 at a show where the Blacktown Church had a booth that was assessing people’s health age. The following year she met Harry in the same way. Each time the students attend, they watch as Noeleen and her team demonstrates how to make 3 dishes. They then enjoy a three-course meal. Harry readily
12
says he wasn’t much of a cook before attending the cooking demonstrations. Now, he proudly knows how to make a few things. Still going strong a year after starting the demonstrations, Harry says he eats a lot of fish and salads and goes walking in the park with his collie. When asked how his life has changed, Harry says, “I was 130 kilos before, and now I’m 67. I couldn’t walk around the park when I started. Now, I can walk around the park 4 times.” Noeleen states modestly that she “likes doing things that will help people,” when asked what has driven her to run the courses over the years. “The Church,” she says, “sees it as something that allows us to touch people in the community and help them. We’ve had others who have had good results, nothing as astounding as Harry. We seem to be filling a need.” At least 2 attendees of the Vegetarian Cooking Class have participated in Blacktown’s CHIP program. As Noeleen says, “I enjoy the challenge. I enjoy the people. I like to be able to do something to help.”
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Mt. Druitt Samoan Baptisms On 20 September, nine new souls gave their lives to Jesus Christ through baptism. This year, Personal Ministries put the church on www.livestream.com (Mt Druitt Samoan SDA Live) to extend our reach to homes, workplaces, phones and laptops, locally and worldwide – there’s been a great response in terms of viewers, and we are looking forward to utilising this tool for future events.
Couple Finds Wollongong Church Through It Is Written
Hoxton Park YOLO Series “You Only Live Once” was conducted by the Hoxton Park youth pastor, Dwayne Manoa and Orion Ka. The program was run for the youth and the attendance was excellent. Several young people committed to give their lives to our Lord and Saviour.
17
Locations
In August & September, 17 locations throughout Sydney hosted the Last Empire Evangelistic Series offering hope for the future.
Gordon and Lynne McColm have recently begun worshipping at Wollongong Church. Although they have been Christians for many years, they have recently found greater understanding and meaning in their faith through the discovery of the “It Is Written” program. At the end of one program, Gary Kent offered a free Bible study for viewers. Soon Gordan and Lynne were taking the studies. Later, they decided to search for a Seventh-day Adventist church nearby. After a bit of searching and several visits, they settled on Wollongong Church. They said the church is “prayerful and Bible-based. People here seem to be walking the walk.” Lynne’s mother now also comes to the Wollongong Church. Gordon and Lynne are enjoying being a part of the church and are continuing to enjoy the wonderful Bible studies and focus on Bible truth in the church. They would also like to say a big thank you to the “It Is Written” program and Gary Kent for introducing them to the truths in the Bible.
Sydney Russian Church Outreach Computer Classes at the Russian Church have been going on for almost 7 years. They are run by Pr Igor Shemet. They start with basic things like turning on the computer, using programs like Microsoft Word, the internet and Skype. A Bible study is run between the morning and afternoon classes and attendees are invited to come early or to stay a little later. Pr Igor says he started the classes because he “saw the opportunity to reach the community.”
Growing in Discipleship Like www.facebook.com/sydneyadventists
www.gscadventist.org.au / November - December 2014 13
Year of Evangelism
PASTORAL APPOINT Church
Pastor
Region
Church
Pastor
Region
Regional Coordinator Central
Andre Vieira
Central
Eastwood Chinese (Group)
Daniel Chong
Central
Regional Coordinator - North
Garth Bainbridge
North
Elizabeth Lodge (Group)
Alwin Hilton
North
Enmore Fijian
Usaia Baravilala
Central
Regional Coordinator NorthWest
Martin Vukmanic
NorthWest
Epping
Nigel Ackland
North
Fairfield
Tapiwa Mutseriwa
South/ SouthWest
Fairfield Spanish (Group)
Wellington Caqui
South/ SouthWest
Fountain in the City (Company)
Gary Kent
Central
Fountain in the City (Company) - Associate
Barend Nieuwstraten
Central
Fountain Maroubra (Group)
Barend Nieuwstraten
Central
Fountain Maroubra (Group) - Pastoral Assistant
Kevin Brown
Central
Regional Coordinator South/SouthWest
Jonathan Valls
South/ SouthWest
Regional Coordinator - West
Frank Ropati
West
3am (Company)
Daniel Przybylko
North
Ashfield
Andre Vieira
Central
ATSIM Director
Johnny Murison
Conference Wide
ATSIM Pastoral Assistant
Matthew Pearce
West
Auburn
Alex Ratu
Central
Bankstown
Roger Vince
Central
Bidwill (Company)
Mele Lolohea
West
Blacktown
Daniel Vasconcelos
West
Fountain Marrickville (Company)
Igor Shemet
Central
Blacktown Spanish
Wellington Caqui
West
Fox Valley
Mark Baines
North
Fox Valley Associate
Lyndelle Peterson
North
Cabramatta
Tapiwa Mutseriwa
South/ SouthWest
Galston
Chris Manthey
NorthWest
Ghanaian (Group)
Roger Vince
West
Granville
Radomir Svonja
West
Granville Fijian
Usaia Baravilala
West
Granville Fijian Associate
Alex Ratu
West
Granville Multicultural
Jimmie Cha
West
David McKibben
West
Cabramatta Fijian
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Usaia Baravilala
South/ SouthWest
Cabramatta Fijian Associate
Alex Ratu
South/ SouthWest
Cabramatta West Spanish
Jonathan Valls
South/ SouthWest
Campbelltown
Stanley Togafau
South/ SouthWest
Guilford Italian Holroyd (Company)
Edvard Miler
West
Campbelltown Fijian
Usaia Baravilala
South/ SouthWest
Hoxton Park
Mario Guzman
South/ SouthWest
Campbelltown Spanish
Wellington Caqui
South/ SouthWest
Hoxton Park Assistant
Anders Svensson
South/ SouthWest
Caringbah
David Cherry
Central
Hurstville
Jimmie Cha
Central
Castle Hill
Pablo Lillo
NorthWest
Central
Carlos Hernandez
NorthWest
Hurstville Chinese Bible Worker
Helena Yu
Castle Hill Associate
Jacob’s Well (Company)
Frank Ropati
Chatswood
Tim Shelton
North
South/ SouthWest
Cherrybrook (Group)
Eddy Johnson
NorthWest
Katoomba
Duane Haora
West
Church in the Fields (Company)
Warwick Sawyer
South/ SouthWest
Kellyville
Martin Vukmanic
NorthWest
Kellyville Associate
Jean-Bernard Deojee
NorthWest
Kings Langley
Carlos Hernandez
West
Lakemba Tongan
Ana Lolohea
Central
Asofitu Leatuavao
South/ SouthWest
Church in the Fields (Company) - Associate
Landry Patii
South/ SouthWest
City Cook Island (Group)
Tai Mokoroa
Central
Concord
James Fletcher
Central
Conference Roll
David Blanch
Conference Wide
Liverpool Samoan (Group)
Corrimal
John Tompson
South/ SouthWest
Lord Howe Island
Graham Chapman
Dundas Croatian
Edvard Miler
North
Manly - Warringah
Garth Bainbridge
November - December 2014 \ www.gscadventist.org.au
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North
MENTS 2015 Church
Pastor
Region
Church
Pastor
Region
Marrickville Spanish
Wellington Caqui
Central
Lloyd Grolimund
North
Merrylands Samoan
Tuni Laikum
West
Wahroonga Associate TV Ministry
Mile End (Company)
Nigel Ackland
NorthWest
Waitara
Marty Luke
North
Minto Samoan
Tuni Laikum
South/ SouthWest
Waitara Associate
Andrew Russell
North
Mona Vale
Garth Bainbridge
North
Wantok (Group)
Joseph Talipuan
North
Mountain View
Rams Tupe
West
Warrimoo
Duane Haora
West
Mt Colah
Bob Saunders
North
Wetherill Park Spanish
Jonathan Valls
Mt Druitt
Matthew Pearce
West
South/ SouthWest
Mt Druitt Samoan
Asofitu Leatuavao
West
Wetherill Park Spanish Assistant
Anders Svensson
South/ SouthWest
Mt Druitt Samoan Associate
Brian Leuluai
West
Windsor
Chris Manthey
NorthWest
Norfolk Island
Dion Fourie
Wollongong
John Tompson
South/ SouthWest
Parramatta
David McKibben
NorthWest
Woollahra
Daniel Przybylko
Central
Parramatta Associate
JP Martinez
NorthWest
Xcell (Group)
Frank Ropati
West
Pendle Hill Polish
Roger Vince
West
Chaplain Auburn School
John Wells
Central
Penrith
Janusz Jagiello
West
Craig Vanas
NorthWest
Philipino (Group)
Carlos Hernandez
West
Chaplain Hills Adventist College - Castle Hill
Punchbowl Samoan (Company)
Brian Leuluai
Central
Chaplain Hills Adventist College - Kellyville
Ian Cangy
NorthWest
Ryde
Allen Bierschbach
North
Chaplain Hurstville Adventist School
David Cherry
South/ SouthWest
Ryde Korean (Company)
Chris Suh
Central
West
Lloyd Grolimund
NorthWest
Chaplain Kings Langley Aged Care
Alwin Hilton
Schofields Church Plant
West
Tuni Laikum
West
Chaplain Kings Langley Aged Care Assistant
Allen Bierschbach
Seven Hills (Group) Stanmore
Igor Shemet
Central
Chaplain Macarthur Adventist College
Warwick Sawyer
South/ SouthWest
Sydney Central Korean
James Fletcher
Central
Daniel Chong
Central
South/ SouthWest
Sydney Chinese Bible Worker
Caren Liao
Central
Chaplain Macarthur Adventist College Associate
Landry Patii
Sydney Chinese
Panapa Leuluai
West
Sydney Cook Island
Tai Mokoroa
South/ SouthWest
Chaplain Mountain View College
Andre Vieira
Central
Chaplain Mountain View College Associate
Sharyn Harrington
West
Sydney Portuguese
Chaplain Mountain View College Associate
Rams Tupe
West
Chaplain Prisons
Johnny Murison
Chaplain Sanctuary Sanitarium
Tim Shelton
Chaplain University Students
Tim Shelton
Chaplain Wahroonga Aged Care
Alwin Hilton
North
Chaplain Wahroonga Aged Care Assistant
Toni Marsh
North
Chaplain Wahroonga School
Lyndelle Peterson
North
Chaplain Wahroonga School Associate
Richie Reid
North
Sydney Russian
Igor Shemet
Central
Sydney Tongan
Sitiveni Teaupa
South/ SouthWest
Tahmoor (Company)
Sitiveni Teaupa
South/ SouthWest
The Way (Group)
Johnny Murison
Central
Thornleigh
Bob Saunders
North
Toongabbie
Edvard Miler
West
Ubuntu (Group)
Eddy Johnson
West
Wahroonga
Alban Matohiti
North
Wahroonga Associate
Richie Reid
North
Central
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www.gscadventist.org.au / November - December 2014 15
WHY ADVENTIST AGED CARE SYDNEY nWe preserve the unique christian life-style and IS THE RIGHT CHOICE culture. nWe preserve the unique Adventist life-style and culture. nOur facilities are set amongst 10 acres of lush, landscaped gardens. nModern, secure and well-equipped facilities – villas, apartments, Hostel and nursing care. nAdventist Aged Care has gained a highly respected reputation in the industry over the past 45 years of services. nAdventist Aged Care is a non profit organization with public benevolent status, we would appreciate any donations. All donations make a difference. with
Apply as a volunteer and join our great team! Roles include: Support our lifestyle programs and help our resident’s stay socially connected Sing or entertain Reading to visuallyimpaired Residents Shopping with residents Run a pet therapy program Assisting Residents at mealtimes Drive a bus Be a green thumb and help things grow Companionship Art and craft
Care,
love and dignity
Adventist Aged Care Sydney
Hornsby - Kings Langley - Wahroonga
For a free information pack contact us by phone or visit our website.
Call now (02) 9487 0600 or visit our website www.aacsyd.org.au