MAGAZINE
intrasyd NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016
June - July 2016
contents FEATURES 9
LOCAL NEWS 6
EDUCATION 12
PHY
Anxie phys 14
04 - Editorials 09 - Mission Stories: Leandro Costa
14 - 2014-2015 Financial
06 - Mount Druitt 08 - The Reids Hit Platinum 09 - Woollahra Church
Statements
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SUNSET TIMES:
EVENTS:
02 Dec 7:53 Fri 09 Dec 7:59 Fri 16 Dec 8:03 Fri 23 Dec 8:07 Fri 30 Dec 8:07 Fri 06 Jan 8:10 Fri 13 Jan 8:10 Fri
22 Dec – GSC Office Closes 02 Jan – GSC Office Opens
– – – – – – –
7:54 Sabbath 7:59 Sabbath 8:04 Sabbath 8:07 Sabbath 8:07 Sabbath 8:10 Sabbath 7:40 Sabbath
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
Muscle tensio Sweating/flu Feelings of c Rapid breath holding Difficulty con Restlessness 12 - A Reflection on 2016 13 - Mental Health & Our ChildrenNumbness, o Recurring he Fatigue, diff OFFERINGS: Using the toi 13
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For the latest event information, visit Sydney.adventist.org.au/ events and /announcements.
sydney.adventist.org.au
03 Dec / Local Church 10 Dec / SPD Strategy 17 Dec / Local Church 24 Dec/ Fund for Needy 31 Dec / Local Church 07 Jan / Local Church 14 Jan / Local Church
Sydney Adventists
FROM THE president We are living in tumultuous and uncertain times. Political instability, financial instability
and natural disasters seem to be the common headlines in our daily newspapers. It is too easy to become accustomed to these headlines and fail to recognise the times in which we live. It causes me to continually reflect, “How much longer, oh Lord, until Jesus comes?” In the meantime, we have been commanded by the Lord to make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). This is our purpose as Seventhday Adventist Christians. Hebrews 10:2325 [NLT] inspires and encourages me as I contemplate the events of the last month, “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” This is amazing counsel as we consider that true worshippers worship in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:24). We are called not just to have a knowledge of the truth, but to be transformed by the Holy Spirit to be people of character and integrity who display not only the gifts of the Spirit, but also the fruit of the Spirit. I have been inspired by hearing many stories of mission and service taking place in our Conference, and you will read a number of these stories in this IntraSyd. It is exciting to see many people also making decisions for baptism and to join God’s church. I would like to take this opportunity to remind you once again of our Ignite program (sydney.adventist.org.au/ignite) on 17-18 March 2017. This is going to be an exciting time for the whole Conference to come
together for worship and mission. We are asking that all churches close and come to the Sydney Showground for this special weekend. It will be a launching pad for our focus on reclaiming former and inactive members as well as the launch of our Conference-wide 40 days of prayer. We are also planning to take up a special offering at Ignite for planting churches on the Eastern Seaboard of Sydney. So please pray and plan to give generously to support the greatest mission field in our Conference. A special concert will be held on the Saturday night of Ignite with Reggie and Ladye Love Smith from the Gaither singers. This will be a great opportunity to invite friends and family to come to a gospel concert. One other burden on my heart is our partnership with the Solomon Island Mission. We are still raising funds for sending containers of resources to the Solomon Islands. I would encourage you to give generously to support our partners in the Islands. You can do this through your tithe envelope or the eGIVING website (egiving. org.au). I want to wish you God’s blessing as we come to the end of 2016. I pray that you will be able to take some time out with family and friends and to be able to recommit to serving the Lord faithfully until He comes. I am excited about what God has in store for 2017, let’s embark on this journey of faith together.
PR Michael Worker President
OUR TEAM President Michael Worker michaelworker@adventist.org.au Editor Joyce Taylor joycetaylor@adventist.org.au Design & Layout Lynda G. Abreu lyndagomes@adventist.org.au Editorial Consultant Adrian Raethel adrianraethel@adventist.org.au Other Contributors Anjuli Cruz, Katrina Jorgensen (cover) Caroline Lolohea, Raul Moran, Scott Wegener Next Intrasyd Deadline 12 January 2017
Want to talk to us? Communications Department 4 Cambridge Street, Epping NSW 2121 Ph: 02 9868 6522 sydney@adventist.org.au Follow us on social media: Tweet @SydneyAdventist Facebook SydneyAdventists
EDITORIALS
FROM THE GENERAL SECRETARY
ADRIAN RAETHEL
You would have read in the previous edition of IntraSyd (September-October) that the Conference was allocated a government chaplaincy subsidy to provide an additional chaplaincy service at Long Bay jail. Previous pastor of the Marrickville, Blacktown, Fairfield and Cabramatta Spanish churches Wellington Caqui-Bazan, has been appointed to fill this position.
Other opportunities are presenting themselves behind closed doors. The Religious Liaison Officer at the Villawood Detention Centre contacted the Conference regarding the request of a group of detainees with Adventist backgrounds to have weekly worship services. As a result, Pr Tapiwa Mutseriwa now conducts such services on a Tuesday morning. In addition, one of the active lay leaders from Parramatta Church has been invited to conduct weekly Bible studies inside the Detention Centre. God is still opening locked doors and prison gates. From the Church Ltd Board • The Currawah Indigenous boarding school near Brewarrina will re-launch in 2017. The Australian Union Conference, NNSW and GS Conferences are supporting the School with some seed funding; • Work continues on the transition from Safe Place Services to the new AdSAFE entity including the setting up of their office at Wahroonga and the appointment of staff; • The Wahroonga ABC will continue operations for another 12 months with a further review to be conducted in August 2017. The Conference is continuing to work with hospital administration with a view to improve the long-term viability of the shop.
From the Executive Committee • The Harvest Fellowship church plant (currently meeting at Horsley Park) has been granted regular group status; • DA approval has been received for the inner city ministry centre on Cleveland Street in Redfern, which is the new home of “The Way” Church. They are currently fitting out the space and will have an official opening in the near future.
Visit www.faithofdoss.com and register for a free copy of the book Hero of Hacksaw Ridge 4
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
ABC collects books for Solomon's Adventist Schools BY SCOTT WEGENER
Thanks to customer donations,
major high schools so they can be a resource for both English and
the Adventist Book Centres (ABC)
Bible teachers. “Ideally, it would be good to provide class sets of 30 of
in Sydney have begun sup-
these books,” says Long.
plying much-needed books to Adventist schools in the Solomon Islands. The donations have been received through a book-drive initiative started by Ken Long, a Sydneysider who developed a passion to help after visiting the islands in 2014.
The Adventist Book Centres of Sydney were approached to assist the project about a year ago. “We heard the need and could see Ken’s enthusiasm – how could we resist!” says Julene Raymond, longserving sales assistant of the bookshop in Epping. “We started off by just collecting donations of customer’s change after they complete their purchase. It is a thrill to be able to tick off another book for the next set when we reach $20, and we sincerely thank people for their
“I visited Kukudu Adventist College and Tenakoga Adventist College,
generosity. Some people even pull out large bills specifically and give
and noticed both Schools had so few books,” says Long. So far, his
very generous donations. It’s quite humbling.”
initiative, Books for the Solomons, and has managed to source 370 boxes of books for schools in the past two years. Loanne Liligeto, English teacher at Tenakoga says, “If students don’t have a reasonable grasp of English, then they may not move from primary school to high school as there are limited places in high school. Reading resources are needed as we have little for our classes”. One of Ken’s strategies is to send books filled with Bible stories as readers, and he’s endeavouring to build class sets of books in the
The ABC recently added the option to purchase books via their web store. Donations go directly to the Solomons in the following shipment. “We invite you to sponsor a book online or donate the change from your in-store purchase to the cause. This can be done at both stores - Epping or Wahroonga. For every $20 received, another book specifically requested by the school is gratefully added to their shipment.” For more info or to donate now, visit www.SydneyABC.com/projects.
LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS
happenings at Mount druitt church Members at Mount Druitt rejoiced 17 September as Grace Harkim, Faith Harkim, Esther Harkim and Episitu Dekebo gave their lives to Christ through baptism. Grace, Faith and Esther grew up in the church. When they were younger, the sisters moved from their home in country in Africa and came to Australia with their parents. All three have academic roots in Mountain View Adventist College. Fatith and Esther has since graduated, leaving Grace the sole attending. Hailing from the nation of Ethiopia, Episitu had been in the church for many years, but had not made the decision for baptism. Last year she approached Pr Matt Pearce following a sermon he’d given on relationships with God. Something about the message resonated, and Episitu decide it was time then and there. Although their spiritual paths differed, the four candidates made a personal choice and commitment that led them to baptism on that day. Following the ceremony, two more individuals put up their hands for studies and to be baptised.
Caption (L-R): Pr Matt, Grace, Faith, Esther, Episitu & Pr Michael Worker
From Wahroonga to Vavau Tonga with Love A 40-foot container sent to the Mizpah School in Vavau Tonga recently arrived at its doors and was received with much joy. The container, sent by the Dorcas Society of Wahroonga Church, contained a number of items addressing needs within the school and church as well as outreach mission components. Mele Vaihola, Principal at the school, sent word that no damages occurred from the lengthy journey and that all went well during the two mid-August days it took to unload the items. “Since then,” she says, “[life] has been quite busy out here as we all wish to take and distribute things where they are most needed”. The donations, she noted, had an “enormous impact upon the school and the community”, specifying that they helped provide clothing for disadvantaged students; equipment to improve the school facilities, the learning and the teaching environments; and brought musical life to the Neiafu Church – the largest on the island – with the addition of a new piano. For this, she thanked the society enthusiastically in Tongan: MALO FAU MEI HE TAKELE HOMAU LOTO!!! (Thank you from the depths of our hearts!!!) The Wahroonga Church has so far financed about 13 containers since the Dorcas Society resumed there in 2004. The containers generally contain a variety of items including books, clothing, desks, lawnmowers, medical supplies, musical instruments and other goods and equipment. At the South Pacific Division each Wednesday, dedicated volunteers sort and pack the items as they are received. Finance for the shipments comes from Wahroonga Church members and from outside the Church. “These [volunteers] also pack the containers to support the Adopt A Clinic Project, which is run by Dr Chester Kuma at the Division,” said Geoff Hansen, Dorcas Co-Leader at Wahroonga Church. Around 40 containers have been sent for the project since 2006. “Many of the people have been doing this work for up to 12 years”.
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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
Caroline Lolohea reports on BidwIll Tongan As the year slips through our fingers, we’re already counting down the days until we welcome 2017. It has been a full-on year in which we’ve faced our shares of trials and triumphs as a church family. But, through it all, God continues to bless us regardless. Bidwill Tongan Church is under the leadership of Pr Mele Lolohea and Head Elder Uatisoni Halatokoua with just over 20 families and counting. Our church family is blessed with so many beautiful children who are actively involved in Adventurers, Pathfinders and Bikie youth. The young people work close together with our children and consistently attend church and Pathfinder events such as outreach initiatives, youth programs, fair days, drug-free walks, camps and social activities. Most recently they took part in the ADRA Appeal and enjoyed working with the elder folk. With the year-end almost here, we look forward to what the New Year holds for us. An open invitation to anyone who may be in the area on Sabbath: drop by and fellowship with us. It is our prayer that we all keep each other in our prayers, as we all play an important part in finishing God’s work here on earth. God bless & Ofa atu from Bidwill Tongan Church.
Woollahra Church Turns to Art Woollahra Church reported in on a joyful October, having had special blessings each Sabbath during the month. On 29 October, the church had a special treat for those in attendance in the form of professional artist Christina Rogers (pictured). Rogers arrived with a blank canvas, set up to the side of the pulpit and began a portrait of Job, painting throughout Sabbath School and Divine Service. As the image began to take form, Christina’s skills with the medium could not be denied. Her ability to reflect the morning lesson and sermon in the painting, whilst keeping the message relevant to experiences today, were seemingly effortless. After service and during fellowship lunch, visitors and members alike took the opportunity to speak with Rogers about the piece, her incredible talent and express their enjoyment of her visit. The painting was not completed that day, but will be finalised and brought to the church at the beginning of December. Church members look forward to that day in much anticipation.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING TO PAINT? Christina will be conducting Sunday art classes at Woollahra church in 2017. Dates for the classes are 29 January, 12 March, 9 April and 14 May, and the cost for the four (4) half-day lessons is $100. Sessions include lunch. A minimal list will be provided for participants to supply their own materials. Contact Pr Daniel Pryzbylko on 0418 525 437 to register and for further information.
The Reids hit Platinum Concord Church publically wishes June and Stewart Reid a happy 70th anniversary. Pastor L Minchen married the beloved couple at the very church on 12 November 1946. Forget talking walls, this pair no doubt has a lifetime of stories they could tell. June and Stewart have shared a rich life together. They’ve been blessed with 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Happy 70th anniversary, June and Stewart! May God continue to bless you.
A Story from Krystyna Kochanski, A Jump Start Literature Evangelist It was a day like any other. I always praise God if people I meet at the door are interested and willing to have spiritual books. That morning I had a few. In the afternoon I came to a street with houses only on one side and a little cul-de-sac at the end. The driveways were very steep. Walking up I felt the strength God gave me to climb. At the top I was more tired spiritually than physically. No one was interested and many were not home. Going back, there were no houses on the other side, so I talked to God. “Thank you for giving me strength to climb those steep driveways. It is still before knock-off time, but I am pretty tired. That’s it for the day. Thank you God for the people I met. Bless them and lead them by your Holy Spirit to you.” Just then the thought came to finish the street opposite my parked car. There weren’t many houses, so I started. Nobody was interested. Finally I got to the last house. The door was ajar. I heard a noise that I thought was a vacuum cleaner working. I knocked once. No response. Twice. No response. The third time I knocked on the glass on the door. Normally I wouldn’t, and I don’t know why I was so persistent then. Eventually a lady appeared. I introduced myself and told her what I was doing. “Let me call my husband,” she said. The gentleman, Sam (not his real name), came and I repeated the reason of my call. He was interested in the health book and we started to chat (45min). He was from Bhutan. I was surprised, as I never met anybody from such a small country. I told him that I believe in a holistic approach to health and showed him the spiritual book and he was interested in it. He told me that he works in a store run by Christians. “Why do Christians say one thing and do another?” he asked. I asked him if he had the Bible. “No,” he said. “I’m Buddhist.” I said, “Okay.” and offered him one. He said he always wanted a Bible and followed me to the car. I gave him one and explained how Jesus gave us the example of how to live, and that if we don’t obey what the Bible teaches, we’re Christians by name only. I asked Sam to pray before he opens the Bible for understanding. His first question was if he could take it to his country. I told him yes. He then told me he meditates and I was able to share with him information on the difference between Biblical and Eastern meditation that I read not long ago. I left after that and was later able to provide additional information. I thank God for another Divine appointment.
ADSAFE LTD VACANCIES: APPLICATIONS CLOSE 29 JANUARY 2017 AdSAFE Ltd is a new service that is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SPD) Limited. AdSAFE Ltd is seeking expressions of interest for the following roles. 1.Safeguarding Manager 2.Case Officer (Survivor Support) 3.Case Officer (Offender & Investigations) 4.Redress Officer For more information on each of the above roles and to apply, please visit the South Pacific Division’s website at www.adventistemployment.org.au.
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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
Mission Stories: Leandro Costa
BY JOYCE TAYLOR
The name Leandro Costa may not be widely known around Greater Sydney, but at the Sydney Portuguese Church, it’s notoriously that of a once disbeliever who became a fisher of men. What occurred seemingly randomly – perhaps as a nervous breakdown or medical emergency to other drivers on the road – turned out to be the moment one man received a call to witness. But the story doesn’t begin there. Leandro’s mission story begins in November 2007 when the former Catholic from Brazil married Stefannie Serafim, an Adventist woman also from the country, here in Australia. Although he knew of his wife’s religious beliefs and her devotion to them, he neither shared her zeal nor her conviction. “He just hated going to the vespers Friday evenings and would stay home to watch footy,” said Stefannie. This led to the forming of a small group on his behalf in 2008. “We’d have dinner and a friend would mention something in the Bible. It led to discussions and grew from there.” From the day the group began, Leandro attended, but what he heard didn’t always resonate or stick. Still, he went and studied, eventually making the decision to be baptised in 2010. So the years went by until one autumn day in 2015, Costa found himself next to his car on the shoulder of the highway. The urge to stop had been so sudden and strong. What was so important to command such a reaction? The answer for him was a simple one: awe and gratitude. “It just occurred to me how blessed I was…”, said Costa. “During my 11 years in Sydney, I got married, had two children and bought a house. And I felt that was time to give back to the community”. With that, he pulled out his phone and sent a message the Brazilians in Sydney Facebook group, inviting anyone who wanted to come to small group, and offering to help others achieve their dreams. The message garnered 300 responses and kicked off a second small group for the church, which met the following Friday, 30 visitors strong. What began with a man trying to understand the beliefs of his wife, has grown into a thriving gathering for lost, lonely and hopeful souls. The group, comprised of many who’ve never been in a church, continues to meet every Friday and averages over 30 participants. In addition to Bible study, which begins with dinner, the group constantly provides social activities for members to connect. Since sending out the message that fateful day, Leandro’s small group efforts have seen more than 15 people baptised. Longtime member of the church Particia Goncalves marvels at the transformation. “This is someone who use to mock us endlessly! To now see him transformed by the Holy Spirit – how much he has changed – further proves to me that God exists. Only he can make that kind of a transformation.” Caption: Leandro with some members of the Sydney Portuguese small group
Youth Week of Prayer 2016 On 12 September we kicked off with our Conference wide Youth Week of Prayer at Mountain View Adventist College (MVAC). We partnered with MVAC and Mountain View church, and it was such a pleasure to work with an amazing team that have hearts for service and a passion for young people. Thank you to MVAC and Mountain View church for working together with the youth department to make this week a great success for the Lord. Our theme was “The Mind of God” and we focused on our Adventist culture and distinctions, and how they reveal to us a loving picture of who God really is. Our speaker was Michael B. Kelly (pictured right), Senior Pastor of Mt. Rubidoux Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California. Every night he challenged us to make a difference in our local churches, in our communities and wherever God sends us. The sermons were powerful and really inspired not just the youth in attendance, but the great number of adults that supported this program. A big thank you to all the mums and dads that brought their children and stayed for the messages. One of the things we were really excited about during the week was the great response to streaming this program live through Facebook. We had never tried this before at any of our events, but praise God that every night we had an average of 25 people tuning in and interacting on the stream with comments of appreciation for the messages. After the streaming was done the messages were still available to view on our Youth Facebook page and we have had more than 1,300 views on all of our messages, with some reaching as much as 1,800 views. We would encourage youth groups to make positive use of Facebook Live at their events so that the Word of God may be shared with as many people as possible. Lastly, a big thank you to all the churches that came out throughout the week. And in particular, those that blessed us with special items that really set the mood for worship and the message. We loved working with you all. – Raul Moran (L) & GSC Youth Ministries
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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
s e s ru ry Clo 016 H ion , 2 t 16 a r ig st ber Re cem De
Multiplying Disciples Plan ting Churches SPD church planting conference
January 30 - February 2, 2017
Glenn Townend
President, South Pacific Division
What Is It?
Kleber De Oliveira Gonçalves
The 2017 SPD Church Planting Conference is for those serious about Adventist Mission. This conference will: • Examine Adventism’s unique heritage as a disciple making, church planting movement • Empower and equip individuals, teams, Churches, Conferences, Unions and Missions to plant churches • Show how to facilitate a church planting movement in our conferences • Explore the growing potential in making disciples in an increasingly post-Christian world
Director, Global Missions Centre for Secular and Postmodern Studies
Gary Krause
Director, GC Office of Mission
Who Should Attend? Church members, pastors, church leaders, administrators . . . anyone who is passionate about making disciples and church planting. We particularly hope that teams of potential church planters will attend. Maybe you want to be inspired, maybe you want to be equipped and empowered, maybe you want teachings, or resourcing - whatever the reason, this Conference is for you!
Simon Martin
Director, UK Office of Mission
With overseas and local speakers, plus over twenty workshops to choose from, this SPD Church Planting Conference, with the Holy Spirit’s leading, promises to be a unique opportunity to be inspired, empowered and equipped to join God in His mission on earth. Kathy Hernandez
Coordinator of Evangelism, Southern Union Conference
Avondale College will be the venue for the conference. Accommodation and meals can be booked via the registration process.
Roger Hernandez
Director, Evangelism, Southern Union Conference
Online Registration Only - Closing December 16, 2016 https://events.adventist.org.au/ew/app/registration/index.html?e=1098 Fo r m o re d e t a i l s c o n t a c t J a n | j a n b o l s t @ a d ve n t i s t . o rg. a u | 0 2 9 8 4 7 3 3 0 6 o r Way n e K r a u s e | w ay n e k r a u s e @ a d ve n t i s t . o rg. a u | 0 4 1 4 4 3 5 3 1 4
EDUCATION
Greater Sydney Adventist Schools A Reflection on 2016 As Year 12 formals are held, and Christmas carols and
A year of service and fellowship in Christ. Many of
performances are formed and practised, it’s a rare moment
our schools participated in acts of service across the city, the state,
to be able to stop and reflect on a year quickly coming to an
and even overseas and continue to serve in various ways. During
end. Many glance at their calendars only to realise – at the
the term three break, Hills Adventist College had many of their Year
time of writing this – that there are a mere four weeks left of the 2016
11 class participate on a service trip to Tenakonga in the Solomon
school year. And while many global, political and pop cultural events
Islands. They assisted with construction and renovation in the village
have left multitudes feeling the year 2016 to be one of chaos, for the
and school. You can hear students talk about this trip on the Hills
Greater Sydney Adventist schools, 2016 was promising. Here’s what
Adventist College Facebook page.
2016 meant to our schools. A year for building. Four out of the six schools in Greater
12 classes will be flying out to Vanuatu to participate in Storm Co -
Sydney have had building projects on this past year. These build-
Service To Others Really Matters Company - a youth mission initiative
ings are allowing some schools, like Wahroonga Adventist School, to
PO T T ING A NXIET Y IN of the South PacificSDivision.
grow by leaps and bounds as they transition into a full P-12 school. Macarthur Adventist College was able to add a new arts building to their campus, which includes a new music classroom, recording rooms and a larger art room with pottery wheels and even a kiln!
KIDS
Above all, Greater Sydney Adventist schools have been a place for students and teachers to grow, learn and share in education and in Christ. Though the year isn’t over just yet, it’s nice to be able to reflect
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS
and celebrate what Adventist education is doing our Greater Sydney Anxiety may manifest itself as ain number of
A year to celebrate history and diversity. In October, Hills
physical symptomsgraduating including: this year: YOU DID IT! conference. To the Year 12 students
Adventist College celebrated its 55th anniversary with a beautiful
To all our Primary and Secondary students returning next year: Enjoy Muscle tension; shaking/trembling, heart palpitations
commemoration of Memories and Milestones. Many gathered to reflect on the history of the school, to remember humble beginnings, and to look forward to what the future holds for this school. To observeSP our diversity, have to look to theIN primary schools’ OT T I you NGonlyANXIETY
KIDS KIDS
POTTING ANXIETY IN Night to collective iFeastsSevent and Macarthur’s Multicultural appreciate how beautiful and diverse our schools are.
PHYSICALSYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS PHYSICAL
Anxiety may manifest itself as a number of
Anxiety maysymptoms manifest itself as a number of physical including: physical symptoms including: Muscle tension; shaking/trembling, heart palpitations Sweating/flushing/blushing; feeling very hot or cold MuscleFeelings tension; shaking/trembling, heart palpitations of choking; dizziness Sweating/flushing/blushing; feeling hot or cold Rapid breathing, shortness of breath,very or breath holding Feelings of choking; dizziness concentrating Rapid Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or breath Restlessness; being easily startled holdingNumbness, or 'pins and needles' in arms and legs Difficulty concentrating Recurring headaches, stomach aches, backaches Fatigue, difficulty sleeping Restlessness; being easily startled Using the toilet more Numbness, or 'pins and frequently needles' in arms and legs
12
At the end of ferm four, Macarthur Adventist College’s Year 11 and
Sweating/flushing/blushing; feeling very hot or cold the holidays and summer. We’ll see you in 2017! Feelings of choking; dizziness
– Greater
Rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or breath holding Sydney Adventist Education Staff & Difficulty concentrating Restlessness; being easily startled Numbness, or 'pins and needles' in arms and legs Recurring headaches, stomach aches, backaches Fatigue, difficulty sleeping Using the toilet more frequently
Faculty
We are always looking for people who wouldI N like to help S POTTING ANXIETY out and get involved. Please email connect@gs.adventist. edu.au or call (02) 9868 6522.
KIDS
BEHAVIOURAL BEHAVIOURAL SYMPTOMS PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS
In addition, children and young people Anxiety may manifest itself as a number of experiencing anxiety may display a number of behavioural symptoms physical symptoms including: including:
Muscle tension; shaking/trembling, heart palpitations (Young children) Clinging to parents; tantrums Sweating/flushing/blushing; Refusing to go to school feeling very hot or cold Withdrawing friends and family Feelings of choking;from dizziness Avoiding particular objects/situations Rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or breath Perfectionism holding Difficulty Shyness concentrating Substance misuse Restlessness; being easily startled Seeking reassurance Numbness, or 'pinspessimism and needles' in arms and legs Negativity; Recurring headaches, stomach aches, backaches Recurring headaches, stomach aches, backaches Fatigue, difficulty sleeping Fatigue, difficulty sleeping UsingSEPTEMBER the toilet more frequently Using the toilet more frequently - OCTOBER 2016 sydney.adventist.org.au Sydney Adventists SOURCE:
Mental Health and Our CHILDREN
BY CLAIRE MARSH
In early October Australian Associated
over two decades, is helping students struggling to learn in a class-
Press (AAP) released an article citing
room and school environment better manage their anxiety in a variety
that the cost of treatment and social
of settings.
stigma is delaying young Australians seeking help for mental heath issues. Reasons given by 50 per cent of 12-to-25-year-olds were financial cost being a hindrance, and 45 per cent in the same group feeling treatment would not help. Another issue is over half were worried of what others would think. The research cited was commissioned by national youth mental health foundation Headspace. Founding board member Patrick McGorry said waiting and worry could have severe detrimental effects from social isolation and relationship breakdowns, to substance abuse and self-harm.
Claire Marsh, a psychologist and manager of Adventist counselling at Greater Sydeny Conference, works with the Greater Sydney Adventist schools to run Cool Kids and similar programs and sessions to help students and families who may be looking for information or need help in identifying any learning, social, or mental health issues some students might be facing. The stigma around mental health issues can be reduced through education and conversation. Next year, look out for an interview with Claire and an introduction to her column about cognitive and emotional health in kids. Take a look at the infographic for recognising anxiety, and for more resources visit the counselling services page on
Adventist education’s continued aim to enable students to learn at their optimum level can sometimes require more help than what might be available in an ordinary classroom setting. Our schools offer support and counselling to help students who may have difficulties. Cool Kids, a program developed by Macquarie University and running for
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Cool Kids Program: www.mq.edu.au/research/ research-centres-groups-and-facilities/healthy-people/ centres/centre-for-emotional-health-ceh/services/ programs-for-children-and-teenagers AAP article: Cost, stigma stop schoolkids from reporting mental health issues (released October 11, 2016) www. educationreview.com.au/2016/10/cost-and-stigma-stopping-schoolkids-from-reporting-mental-health-issues Kids Helpine 1800 55 1800 (Free, 24/7) Parentline NSW 1300 1300 52 (cost of a local call)
the conference website, or visit any of the resources below.
Mrs Claire Marsh - Psychologist Manager – Adventist Counselling Services. (02) 8876 5238 or clairemarsh@adventist.org.au
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GREATER SYDNEY CONFERENCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2014-2015
OUR GSC FINANCE TEAM Chief Financial Officer Eva Ing evaing@adventist.org.au Assistant Chief Financial Officer Maxine Su maxinesu@adventist.org.au GSC Accountant Deanne Deberg deannedeberg@adventist.org.au
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S LETTER We have been abundantly blessed this past financial year. The harvest has been plentiful,
T&O Accountant Richard Hurrell richardhurrell@adventist.org.au
and the Lord has provided at every opportunity. Highlights include:
Accounts Officer Aroya Tambunan aroyatambunan@adventist.org.au
the highest in Australia and has put us in a great position to launch the Mission to the Cities
Other Contributors Natalie Lopez, Meleofa Tovo, Stephen Venter, Penny Fang
1. In our church, tithe has grown nearly 10% in 2015 over the previous year. This growth is projects. 2. In our schools we’ve had a $1m+ surplus for the third year in a row, emphatically proving that our schools are now on a solid financial footing, capable of supporting capital growth. 3. In our aged care, we’ve had a record surplus of $3.3m. This is a significant improvement over prior years due to higher occupancy levels and better processes in reporting and government funding. 4. In our conference, it is the realisation of a number of capital investments, which resulted in a surplus of $4.8m. While these are outstanding results, it is no time for complacency or standing still, especially in a city where the population is expected to increase by 1 million people over the next 10
For further information regarding the Greater Sydney Conference financial statements please contact: Chief Financial Officer, evaing@adventist.org.au or 9868 6522
years. This is why we’re using our current financial success to invest in improving our facilities and building more capacity. It is our mission to create larger circles of influence to make more disciples in this great city of Sydney. Over the next few pages I will share with you how we’re going to do that.
Eva Ing
14
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
2
10% The percentage of tithe growth. This growth is the highest in the country and allows us to launch the Mission to the Cities projects.
$4.8m
The total amount of surplus generated from capital investments.
$3.3m
In our aged care, a record surplus of $3.3m being a significant improvement over prior years due to higher occupancy levels and better processes in reporting and government funding.
3
GREATER SYDNEY CONFERENCE OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Greater Sydney Conference Adventist Church Statement of Surplus or Defiof cit the and Seventh-day Other Comprehensive Income Statement of Surplus or Deficit and Other Comprehensive Income the Year Ended 31 December 2015 - For theFor Year Ended 31 December 2015 -
Note Income Deductible Gift Recipient income Property usage fee income
2014
$
$
341,548
508,909
2,669,493
2,641,038
Investment income
5
770,457
316,107
Other income
6
4,093,545
22,333,565
Appropriations received
7
2,664,851
2,089,846
Total income
10,539,894
27,889,465
Expense Appropriations given
(2,147,802)
(7,584,477)
(230,465)
(169,170)
(32,657)
(40,028)
(2,848,862)
(2,824,731)
(428,241)
(445,600)
(32,321)
(73,020)
Deductible Gift Recipient expenses Session expenses
8
Property expenses Finance costs Other expenses
9
Total expense Surplus before income tax Income tax
(5,720,348) (11,137,026) 4,819,546 -
16,752,439 -
Net surplus Other comprehensive income
4,819,546 -
16,752,439 -
Total comprehensive income for the year
4,819,546
16,752,439
PLANT 15X NEW CHURCHES
16
2015
4
REDEVELOPING THE OFFICE
In Greater Sydney we’re looking to plant 15 new
In our conference, we are well on our way to
churches by 2020 and Mission to the Cities is one
redeveloping the office with the Development
of the ways we’re doing this, particularly in the
Agreement to be lodged in November. By late 2017,
Northern Beaches and Lilyfield. We’re also going
we expect we will have received the full $12m for this
to use proceeds from the redevelopment of the
development. I am reminded of the parable Jesus
Conference office to support additional church plants.
told of the servants who had talents to invest.
The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 1 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016 sydney.adventist.org.au Sydney Adventists
GREATER SYDNEY CONFERENCE OF THEConference SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Greater Sydney of the Seventh-day Adventist Church Statement ofofFinancial Position Statement Financial Position As At 31 December 2015
- As at 31 December 2015 Note
2015
2014
$
$
ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents
10
28,139,971
27,259,634
Trade and other receivables
11
399,305
1,342,372
Other assets
12
25,041
41,039
Land held for sale
13
2,094,188
1,225,555
30,658,505
29,868,600
Total current assets Non-current assets Trade and other receivables
11
10,238,538
10,829,742
Land held for sale
13
3,850,368
7,069,329
Land, improvements and buildings
14
111,397,377 106,201,853
Total non-current assets
125,486,283 124,100,924
TOTAL ASSETS
156,144,788 153,969,524
LIABILITIES Current liabilities Trade and other payables
15
457,772
Financial liabilities
16
602,316
584,614
Other liabilities
17
471,741
268,837
1,531,829
3,108,270
Total current liabilities
2,254,819
Non-current liabilities Trade and other payables
15
36,289,151
36,754,676
Financial liabilities
16
7,980,465
8,582,781
Total non-current liabilities
44,269,616
45,337,457
TOTAL LIABILITIES
45,801,445
48,445,727
NET ASSETS
110,343,343 105,523,797
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Reserves
18
Denominational equity
19
TOTAL EQUITY
4,101,938
1,890,852
106,241,405 103,632,945 110,343,343 105,523,797
The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 2
4
5
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH (GREATER CONFERENCE) TRUST Seventh-day Adventist SYDNEY Church (Greater Sydney Conference) Trust Comprehensive Income Statement Comprehensive Income Statement - For the Ended 31December December ForYear the Year Ended 31 2015 2015 -
Note Adventist Book Centre revenue Sales revenue
2014
$
$
743,467
746,456
(501,511)
(524,970)
Gross Earnings Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre
241,956 481,719
221,486 485,154
Ministry income
329,131
281,146
Rental income
562,348
528,455
Cost of sales
Revenue - investment
5
232,333
263,950
Other income
6
1,018,664
1,022,547
Retained tithe
7
11,459,810
10,454,444
Offerings & donations
8
183,161
190,925
Appropriations
372,286
717,955
Total income
14,881,408
14,166,062
Administrative expense
9
(2,847,980)
(2,674,835)
Ministry expense
10
(2,079,832)
(2,032,867)
Field expense
11
(8,627,582)
(8,012,861)
Evangelism expense
12
(452,679)
(589,539)
Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre expense
13
Adventist Book Centre expense
(442,100)
(469,392)
(401,638)
(402,049)
-
Other expense Total expense
(3,818)
(14,851,811) (14,185,361)
Surplus/(deficit) before income tax Income tax
18
2015
29,597 -
(19,299) -
Net surplus/(deficit) Other comprehensive income
29,597 -
(19,299) -
Total comprehensive income for the year
29,597
(19,299)
4
financial statements should sydney.adventist.org.au be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. SEPTEMBER The - OCTOBER 2016 Sydney Adventists 1
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Seventh-day Adventist Church (Greater Sydney Conference) Trust (GREATER SYDNEY CONFERENCE) TRUST Balance Sheet Balance Sheet at 31 December 2015 - As atAs31 December 2015 -
Note
2015
2014
$
$
ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents
15
6,260,455
5,668,922
Trade and other receivables
16
1,482,974
1,403,343
Inventories
17
375,345
339,522
560,763
420,524
960,408
809,800
22,782
22,782
9,662,727
8,664,893
67,705
59,619
329,305
653,664
283,659
220,503
680,669
933,786
10,343,396
9,598,679
Financial assets Other current assets
18
Assets classified as held for sale Total current assets Non-current assets Trade and other receivables
16
Financial assets Property, plant and equipment
19
Total non-current assets TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES Current liabilities Trade and other payables
21
1,008,423
959,063
Short-term provisions
22
2,579,198
1,961,410
Other current liabilities
23
247,182
240,382
3,834,803
3,160,855
Total current liabilities Non-current liabilities Trade and other payables
21
1,302,796
1,302,796
Long-term provisions
22
229,045
187,873
Total non-current liabilities
1,531,841
1,490,669
TOTAL LIABILITIES
5,366,644
4,651,524
NET ASSETS
4,976,752
4,947,155
EQUITY Reserves
24
95,687
98,206
Denominational equity
25
4,881,065
4,848,949
4,976,752
4,947,155
TOTAL EQUITY
6
7
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOLS (GREATER SYDNEY) TRUST Statement ofAdventist Profit or Loss and Other(Greater Comprehensive Income Seventh-day Schools Sydney) Trust Statement of Profit Loss and 31 otherDecember Comprehensive Income - For the YearorEnded 2015 For the Year Ended 31 December 2015 Note
2015
2014
$
$
Student tuition
7
6,793,289
5,712,695
Other receipts from students
8
1,873,774
1,670,473
Recurrent Government grants
9
17,844,825
15,963,384
Capital income
10
2,031,715
1,585,812
Trading income
11
3,048,359
3,154,555
Investment income
12
236,359
220,297
330,865
182,878
Appropriations
2,287,074
2,278,051
Total income
34,446,260
30,768,145
(8,031,149)
(6,198,234)
Other income
Administrative costs
13
(18,526,414) (16,065,470)
Tuition expenses
14
Trading expenses
15
(3,149,195)
(3,185,903)
Occupancy costs
16
(2,499,832)
(2,337,632)
Finance costs
(549,620)
(513,045)
Other expenses
(397,897)
(422,673)
Total expense
(33,154,107) (28,722,957)
Surplus before income tax Taxation
1,292,153 -
2,045,188 -
Net surplus Other comprehensive income
1,292,153 -
2,045,188 -
Total comprehensive income for the year
1,292,153
2,045,188
In our schools, we have major capital developments in Wahroonga, Hills, Macarthur and Mountain View. Buildings projects over the next 5 years will exceed $30m. These projects will not only enable us to teach more students, but also enhance the learning and teaching capability we currently have. Furthermore, we’ll be investing significantly in IT infrastructure so that our students will be better equipped for the digital age.
ADVENTIST EDUCATION 20
These are long-term commitments that are a significant challenge and require us to continuously do well. We have had record enrolments over the past 3 years – with waiting lists at many of our schools – so with good management and God’s blessings, we have confidence that our schools will continue in their success.
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists
The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOLS (GREATER SYDNEY) TRUST StatementSchools of Financial(Greater Position Sydney) Seventh-day Adventist
8
Trust
of Financial Position - AsStatement at 31 December 2015 As at 31 December 2015 Note
2015
2014
$
$
ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents
18
3,889,456
5,088,387
Trade and other receivables
19
509,149
698,559
Inventories
20
113,480
73,719
Other assets
22
197,559
159,424
4,709,644
6,020,089
Total current assets Non-current assets Trade and other receivables
19
12,856,585
11,997,852
Other financial assets
21
186,677
94,821
Property, plant and equipment
23
1,293,556
916,444
Total non-current assets
14,336,818
13,009,117
TOTAL ASSETS
19,046,462
19,029,206
LIABILITIES Current liabilities Trade and other payables
25
1,213,681
2,428,788
Financial liabilities
26
602,316
584,614
Provisions
27
2,093,841
1,854,976
Other liabilities
28
577,104
477,301
4,486,942
5,345,679
Total current liabilities Non-current liabilities Financial liabilities
26
7,980,465
8,582,781
Long-term provisions
27
508,939
322,783
8,489,404
8,905,564
12,976,346
14,251,243
6,070,116
4,777,963
Total non-current liabilities TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS EQUITY Reserves
29
229,332
131,978
Denominational equity
30
5,840,784
4,645,985
6,070,116
4,777,963
TOTAL EQUITY
9
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST AGED CARE (GREATER SYDNEY) TRUST Sydney) Trust Seventh-day Adventist Aged Care (Greater Statement of ProďŹ t or Loss and other Comprehensive Income Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
- For the June For Year the YearEnded Ended 3030 June 2016 2016 -
Note
2016
2015
$
$
Revenue from services provided Residential care revenue
6
16,002,785
12,836,955
Independent living units revenue
7
2,654,892
2,594,824
18,657,677
15,431,779
Total revenue Cost of services provided Residential care expenses
8
Independent living units expenses
9
Total cost of services provided
(2,396,599)
(2,325,556)
(15,301,639) (14,378,327)
Gross earnings
3,356,038 -
Finance costs Surplus before income tax Income tax expense
(12,905,040) (12,052,771)
1,053,452 -
3,356,038 -
1,053,452 -
Surplus for the year Other comprehensive income
3,356,038 -
1,053,452 -
Total comprehensive income for the year
3,356,038
1,053,452
4
ADVENTIST AGED CARE In our aged care we’re investing at both Wahroonga and Kings Langley. The Esther Somerville facility at Wahroonga will be refurbished with added rooms, and a further 45 residential beds and 27 new independent living units will be added at Kings Langley.
22
The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. sydney.adventist.org.au Sydney Adventists 3
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST AGED CARE (GREATER SYDNEY) TRUST Statement of Financial Position Sydney) Trust Seventh-day Adventist Aged Care (Greater - As at of 30Financial JunePosition 2016 Statement As At 30 June 2016 2016
2015
Note
$
$
Current assets Cash and cash equivalents
11
21,736,440
20,292,910
Trade and other receivables
12
1,721,768
2,441,940
Financial assets
13
11,235,182
3,549,373
Other current assets
14
222,372
177,818
34,915,762
26,462,041
ASSETS
Total current assets Non-current assets Trade and other receivables
12
21,655,635
22,821,500
Financial assets
13
289,830
921,812
Property, plant and equipment
15
1,012,604
1,188,034
Intangible assets
16
4,740,000
4,740,000
Total non-current assets
27,698,069
29,671,346
TOTAL ASSETS
62,613,831
56,133,387
1,160,308
1,115,558
LIABILITIES Current liabilities Trade and other payables
17
Financial liabilities
18
6,701
4,249
Short-term provisions
19
1,056,025
1,010,992
Other current liabilities
20
46,406
30,674
Future payments due to exiting residents
21
51,010,362
47,960,745
53,279,802
50,122,218
187,990
221,168
187,990
221,168
53,467,792
50,343,386
9,146,039
5,790,001
Total current liabilities Non-current liabilities Long-term provisions
19
Total non-current liabilities TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS EQUITY Denominational equity
22
5,630,550
3,194,580
Reserves
23
3,515,489
2,595,421
9,146,039
5,790,001
TOTAL EQUITY
The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 4
10
IGNITE 17&18
MARCH
2017
Dwight Nelson is coming to Sydney! He’ll be speaking at Ignite - our citywide weekend of worship. We want Sydney to shine with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and to mobilise the Seventh-day Adventist movement to be even more effective!
SYDNEY SHOWGROUND 1 SHOWGROUND RD, SYDNEY
GUEST SPEAKER: PR DWIGHT NELSON
Senior Pastor, Pioneer Memorial Church
PERFORMANCES BY: REGGIE & LADYE LOVE
L & C MUSIC
SYDNEY.ADVENTIST.ORG.AU/IGNITE
24
SEPTEMBERAdventist - OCTOBERChurch 2016
in Sydney
sydney.adventist.org.au
Sydney Adventists