The art of creation Creativity is at the heart of the biblical story and ours
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Reflecting Hope
Recognising His voice
Cliff – a personal reflection
Has anybody here
seen my friend John?
BUC & Stanborough Primary
School health partnership
How safe is your working space?
+ Waco thirty years on
The art of creation
Creativity is at the heart of the biblical story and ours
Messenger 3-2023 | 1
Strategic Priority (3) – Resources Editorial
CONTENTS
UNION ADDRESS
Aim: by Julian Thompson,
• To identify legacy-building opportunities to create relevant Editor
resources for our stakeholders and the wider community. Dear reader,
This year is the 30th anniversary of the 1993 tragedy in Waco, Texas: an event
Objectives: that saw many, including former members of the Adventist Church here in the
• Review and evaluate the viability and relevance of all current British Isles, lose their lives. The events on and leading up to Waco will forever
resources, remain a painful memory, especially for those who knew people who died
personally. Through theological, historical, and
• Set up a resource-creation team to develop new resources in personal reflections, we are reminded of the
consultation with the departments and institutions, importance of knowing the voice of Jesus for ourselves
• Create specialised resources for key milestones. and experiencing the depth of joy that comes with
salvation. We are reminded that God is love, and that
whenever we are presented with an image of Him that
is not love, we would do well to wonder whether God is
The art of
being presented at all.
We stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. One of the often-
Communication Department, and our regularly updated website. BUC underappreciated aspects of MESSENGER is that, with its records going back some 120 years, it
creation
Media curates audiovisual content, and the Evangelism Department, archives the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
through the BUC Resource Centre, provides various training materials, as While preparing this edition, our assistant editor, Andrew Puckering, observed that readers
do our Health and Women’s Ministries departments. The Ministerial might be interested in articles written in the 2 April and 7 May 1993 editions of MESSENGER by
Association facilitates online training for pastors and local church leaders the then-MESSENGER editor, Dr David Marshall, and the then-BUC president, Pastor Cecil Perry.
through BUTREC, and our Pathfinders and Adventurers are supported They can be accessed via the General Conference archives and/or by following the QR codes
with their own online BUC store. In addition, the Adventist Discovery embedded here.
by Pastor Eglan Brooks, Centre provides Bible studies and inspirational articles for those searching
for God.
President of the British Union Conference
A new resource
‘ “God has filled him with his Reflecting Hope is a new website to support the Christ for Europe initiative
power and given him skill, in our territory. For more information, please go to www.reflectinghope.org.uk.
ability, and understanding for
every kind of artistic work, for
planning skilful designs . . .” ’
Review and evaluation
We have started to review our resources, and over the next few years we
CONTENTS
(Exodus 35:31, 32, GNB). will evaluate their effectiveness. We need to remove duplication where it
exists, streamline our resources, ensure that content and visuals are kept up 4 – Reflecting Hope
to date, and take the lead in producing contextualised resources fit for
twenty-first-century consumption.
Creativity is at the heart of the Resource creation 5 – Has anybody here seen my friend John?
biblical story and ours. Indeed, Our approach to resource creation will be threefold:
God’s creation of air, water, • We must build on the intellectual assets that we already have. Our
sunlight and vegetation – resources forebears laboured long and hard to document their intellectual assets, and
needed by birds, fish, animals and sometimes we shamefully abandon them in favour of that which is
humans – is an important part of untested.
the creation story. • We are encouraging all departments and institutions to set up advisory 8-10 – Continuities and discontinuities:
teams to help guide their work. These strategic teams of industry Waco thirty years on
Current resources professionals and passionate individuals will enhance the work being done
In the British Union Conference in our field, particularly in the areas such as safeguarding, education,
(BUC), we provide and produce an communication and HR, which are invaluable to our growth and effective 12-13 – Fun Zone
array of creative resources. The management.
Stanborough Press offers a variety • We live in a changing world, and need cutting-edge resources and
of books to inform, educate and technologies to assist us in spreading our message of hope and progressing
inspire, alongside media, gifts, and our drive for resources that have a wider appeal.
vegetarian food; this is in addition
to the monthly MESSENGER, our Legacy resources 15 – ADRA-UK
official journal; the Sabbath School Impact is created by strategic planning and long-term goals. We need to create
quarterlies; and FOCUS. We also resources that enable us to revisit our history and help us not to ‘forget the
have BUC News produced by our way the Lord has led us in the past’. 16-23 – News, notices & baptisms
2 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 3
Has anybody here
REFLECTING HOPE
FEATURE
seen my friend John?
Anchored by Pastor Eglan Brooks,
by Catherine Anthony Boldeau President of the British Union Conference
students trying to get their heads
around the complexities of New
Testament Greek and Biblical
‘We have this hope as an anchor Hebrew. It was John who gave me my
for the soul, firm and secure.’ – orientation to the WIC campus,
I
Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) Mandeville and Jamaica. He taught
me how to look after the students
I
around me, and we regularly used
n December 1987, I left the our money to ensure that some of Elliott, George Bennett, Abedowalo
comfort of what was familiar to the less fortunate students in the Davis, Yvette Fagan, Doris Fagan,
n the maritime world, anchors are From Genesis to Revelation, God’s secure and firm in their faith.
me and took a journey to West dormitory had something to eat Sandra Hardial, Zilla Henry, Vanessa
vital. Their purpose is to moor in love for the world is told through ‘We have an anchor that keeps the
Indies College (WIC), now known as (sorry, Dean Nembhard, it was us Henry, Philip Henry, Paulina Henry,
place a shipping vessel, large or stories, historical data, poems, prose, soul
Northern Caribbean University, to who were constantly cooking in the Stephan Henry, Livingston Malcolm,
small. This ensures that the vessel prophetic utterings, warnings, Steadfast and sure while the
begin my ministerial training. I truly dormitory!) John demonstrated for Diane Martin, Bernadette Monbelly,
stays in place, despite stormy or letters, and inspiration. We have billows roll;
believed that I was following the call me, the staff, and the students the Rosemary Morrison, Melissa
inclement weather, as the anchor is hope of everlasting life because ‘this Fastened to the Rock which
of God; and, while I didn’t know guiding Christ-like love of a believer, Morrison, Theresa Nobrega and Cliff
heavy, connected to the seabed by a is how much God loved the world: cannot move,
what to expect when I got there, I something I have so often seen Sellors, all of whom were members
fluke that digs into it. He gave his Son. . . . And this is why: Grounded firm and deep in the
was convinced that it would be an demonstrated among our members from the UK, lost their lives in the
As Bible-believing Christians, our so that no one need be destroyed’ Saviour’s love.’
experience that would change me here in the British Union tragedy of Waco.
hope is in a soon-coming King, Jesus (John 3:16, MSG).
irrevocably. I wanted to be clay in the Conference.
Christ. This belief focuses our Seventh-day Adventists are a
Potter’s hands. Remembering
attention away from our present people of hope, which keeps them We are anchored.
Returning to the UK Now, thirty years on, the memories of
challenges and on the future glories
West Indies College When John left WIC in May 1987 this tragic moment evoke difficult
of living with Christ. It assists in
The Dean of the Boy’s Dormitory he returned to Newbold to complete emotions in me that I thought I had
grounding our faith in the Word of
welcomed me graciously and his BA. Upon entering Newbold in processed a long time ago . . . feelings
God. We read the Bible not out of
duty, but as a guidebook for living, as
www.reflectinghope.org introduced me to my roommates: 1991 I asked, ‘Has anybody here seen of pain, grief, loss, anger, and guilt.
Alrick, Steve, and John. Alrick and my friend John?’ You can imagine But there is something about grief
a map to teach us about the future. It
Steve were two Jamaican students my shock when I was told that John wherein you keep finding remnants
is a communication tool by which
On 22 February, the British Union matriculating from high school, and had completed his BA and left of it in the most unexpected
God speaks to us.
Conference (BUC) formally launched it was their first year at WIC. The Newbold, and was involved in a moments, places, and situations.
its Reflecting Hope initiative (see: other roommate was a young man religious cult called the Branch What can we say to the many who
www.reflectinghope.org). In the January edition called John. He was at Newbold Davidians who were led by one are still hurting? What can we say to
of MESSENGER, the BUC President, Pastor College, now known as Newbold David Koresh – and that they had those who have endured heart-
Eglan Brooks, introduced the programme to College of Higher Education taken up residence at the Mount breaking loss? What do we say to
the membership: ‘At the General Conference (NCHE), but had decided to take a Carmel Centre in Waco, Texas, USA. comfort those still nursing pieces of
(GC) Autumn Council the British Union Conference was presented year out and study at WIC. We It was difficult for me to believe it. brokenness?
with the wonderful opportunity to be involved in an evangelistic shared the same bunk bed: I was on How could this brilliant soul and While the truth is that we cannot
initiative called ‘Christ for Europe’. This initiative will be run the top bunk, and he was on the faithful member of our church be understand what you went through
throughout the Trans-European Division (TED) and Inter-European bottom. drawn into such an extremist group? or what you’re going through now, we
Division (EUD), and is spearheaded by the GC, Adventist World Radio John was a humble, balanced I suspect it is too easy to point the want you to know that we are truly
(AWR) and Total Member Involvement (TMI). Christian, a natural-born leader. He finger and say that he surely should and deeply sorry for your loss. We
‘Reflecting Hope is the BUC’s response to this initiative. This was looked after me, just as he looked have known better, but we would love those who were lost to you and
voted by the Executive Committee in early December as a three-year after everyone else in the dormitory. do well to remember that our us in the tragedy called Waco. Thirty
programme. It is an intentional, innovative, and impactful evangelistic John was like the older brother that church, our families, our years on, we continue to hurt as we
project to connect the contemporary “European” mindset with the would guard, guide and protect you. communities and our world are remember not only those who died,
Gospel of Jesus Christ. Reflecting Hope will be launched as a pilot this He was a generous and kind full of broken people desperately but their families left behind and the
year – 2023 – in several regions across the territory of the BUC, and individual who loved teaching other yearning for hope. many lives that were torn apart by
during 2024/2025 we will endeavour to roll out the full programme to students. He had a photographic On 19 April 1993 my friend devastating loss. We will never forget
all church congregations.’ memory, and our room was the John-Mark McBean, Diana Henry, your loved ones, and we will continue
default tutor group room for many Winston Blake, Susan Benta, Beverly to keep you all in our prayers.
4 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 5
Recognising
message, the perilous condition of to it? If I didn’t get that sorted, the
FEATURE
FEATURE
the world, end-time events and the slippery slope of perfectionism (see
very soon return of Christ. He was the article by Dr Steve Currow)
His voice
questioning why some of the awaited. As absurd as it now sounds,
theology staff seemed to be teaching at one point on this journey, I began
a ‘new theology’ of salvation, one to feel incredible guilt about
that emphasised the love, grace and consuming dairy milk, and
mercy of God; this was in stark wondered whether such behaviour
contrast to how he understood could negatively impact my
things. In his opinion it was acceptance with God! Yes, really! It
judgement time, a time when our was not until after reading a book
actions, both personal and corporate, titled Is Salvation Really Free? by Ted by Pastor Ian Sweeney, TED Field Secretary
would demonstrate whether or not Vick2 that I came to the conclusion
we were ready for Christ’s soon that there is absolutely nothing I can
return. ever do to gain favour with God. two and a half hours, I had had I will never forget the comments
I need to note that in my ‘God saved you by his grace when enough. My mind was tired and made by at least four of the older
conversations with him I did not pick you believed. And you can’t take could not process any more, so I members in the Manchester district
I
politely made my excuses and left. I following a series of meetings and
Cliff – a
later learnt that the Bible study had discussions on Steve’s Bible studies.
continued into the early hours of the Speaking in soft Jamaican patois,
personal
n 1990, I was serving as an intern Sabbath morning. My spirit was they said, ‘Pastor, that is not the voice
pastor in the Manchester district troubled – something about the of Jesus!’ I heard what they said, but
of churches. One Friday, I experience wasn’t quite right; and, at first I did not understand. They
reflection
received a call notifying me that a while I could not put my finger on had not heard Steve’s Bible studies
number of our young people were exactly what it was, or identify any first-hand; neither had they proffered
going to attend a Bible study that glaringly obvious errors, I was any sound hermeneutical principles
evening, and I decided to go along. I nevertheless left with the sense that for interpreting the classical
by Pastor David Neal, arrived at the home at 7pm, where something wasn’t adding up. prophecies of Jeremiah that could
W
TED Communication & Media Director there were some twenty young In the days that followed, some combat Steve’s teaching. As one who
people sat with Bibles open and eyes of the young people challenged had studied theology on a technical
aglow. I recognised everyone in the me: ‘Pastor, where’s the error in level, I was unsatisfied with the
hen Cliff arrived at up even the slightest hint of anger in credit for this; it is a gift from God room except for one person, a laid- what Steve’s saying?’ To my simplicity of their conclusion, and
Newbold in 1985, I was his concerns. Rather, the tone was (Ephesians 2:8, NLT). back American who introduced embarrassment, I had no definitive felt I needed more. At the time, I did
two thirds of the way one of disappointment, as if the My conclusion was in distinct himself as Steve (Schneider): he was answer. In the Bible study, Steve not realise that God was using them
through my pastoral training. What I college and mainstream Adventism contrast to Cliff’s worldview of the one who’d be leading the Bible moved from text to text, book to to deliver an important teaching to
immediately remember of Cliff is had let him down. perfectionism – one I was moving study and politely welcomed me book, Old Testament to New me and all who heard them.
that he was a quiet, friendly, gentle Cliff was not the only one on away from without regret. At the with a ‘good to see you, Pastor’. Testament, back and forth. He It was in the aftermath of the
young English person with a warm campus during the 1980s who time I wasn’t looking for an austere Apart from the young people, there referred to prophecies from the book devastating fire of 19 April 1993,
East Midlands accent who wanted to challenged the theological perspective counter-cultural experience such as was someone else there whom I had of Jeremiah; and, still maintaining and a death toll that at the time was
do something good for God – of the lecturers. He was one of about the one Cliff was offering, nor did I not seen for at least a year. John had my reservations, I remember being reported as potentially being as high
Indeed, this was his reason for ten to fifteen (possibly more) vocal want my faith experience to be one of been a fellow Theology student at troubled enough to read the entire as 85 people,1 that my thoughts were
attending Newbold. students who, at the time, were on a existential angst where I would have Newbold College, but I had lost book of Jeremiah twice in two taken back to those elderly members
Before he became an Adventist, mission to reform the college of its so- to continually look over my shoulder contact with him when he dropped sittings. While Steve had a strange and their statement: ‘Pastor, that is
Cliff had been a professional called ‘new theology’ leanings; this and wonder whether God was angry off the radar after leaving Newbold. way of interpreting the prophecies, not the voice of Jesus!’ The Lord
footballer. Whatever the nature of dynamic reflected a similar with me or not. I would love to think I did not know Steve, but to my in those early days, I was not aware of reminded me of a song that the youth
his previous lifestyle, it was clear that turbulence within the wider British that if I had attempted to develop a shame my first reaction was rather how dangerous these interpretations choir in Leicester had rehearsed and
his new life involved rigid spiritual Union Conference (BUC) at the friendship with Cliff then I could childish and filled with jealousy. I would be. On the Wednesday sung: ‘My sheep know My voice’.
discipline. He was very enthusiastic time, as various self-appointed have convinced him of the liberating remember thinking to myself, When following the two-and-a-half-hour This was a song composed by Herbert
about the writings of Ellen White, reformers of Adventism – from the power, joy, and freedom of the I lead Bible study or prayer meetings, I Bible study, I received a phone call Buffum (1879-1939). Buffum found
and his peculiar reading of her US and Australia in particular – Gospel; however, I can’t help but never attract this many young people! from John. ‘Ian,’ he said, ‘I have been inspiration for this hymn in the
seemed to provide just the determined that the Seventh-day wonder if, at the time, he was in a What’s the deal with Steve? As Steve searching for the truth all my life, words of Jesus, some two thousand
framework he felt he needed. Adventist Church in the United position to hear such good news, or led the Bible study, I was impressed and now at last I’ve found it. You years before, who said: ‘ “My sheep
In the few conversations I had Kingdom and Ireland required whether he would have dismissed it with his memory and ability to recite need to examine what Steve is listen to my voice; I know them, and
with him in the college cafeteria, it cleansing. as ‘new theology’. numerous Bible texts without teaching and come and join us.’ Now, they follow me” ’ (John 10:27, NIV).
wasn’t long before he would express I should have made Cliff a friend, Others did make huge efforts to befriend Cliff
having to read them. Steve had I want to be very clear, because it’s Only now do I understand the wise
disappointment about the college but I couldn’t and I didn’t.1 Back charisma and spoke with confidence important that what I am about to words of the older saints. When you
1
and help him on his spiritual journey. A Newbold
environment. He wondered why we then, I was at a critical juncture in my lecturer at the time, Albert Waite, records his and authority. Those present were say must not be brushed off as have come close to Christ every day
experience with Cliff in Spectrum magazine:
played five-a-side football in the faith development: I was on a search https://spectrummagazine.org/article/2018/03/14/british- engaged and appeared to hang on his dramatic effect; but that night John through prayer, Bible study and a
college gym when Ellen White (in his to discover the nature of salvation, connection. In addition, Tihomir Kukolja talks about every word. pleaded for my soul. I could hear the heart open and receptive to Him, you
will recognise the voice of Jesus!
his friendship with Cliff in his online blog, and the
opinion) condemned competitive and for me there was just one many extensive conversations they had with each As I listened, I prayed for tears in his voice when I responded,
sports. He suggested that some of the question that needed to be settled: is other at Newbold, and the atmosphere on campus in discernment; my mind was working ‘I’m not joining you; something isn’t
teachers were not as fervent as he was salvation the gift of God, through 1988: https://kukolja.wordpress.com/2018 /04/16/the-
overtime as I tried to figure out the right about all of this.’ That was the See ‘Final Waco Death Toll’, The Independent, 30
1
truth-that-will-blow-your-mind/. April 1993: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/
about proclaiming the Adventist faith, or do my own works contribute 2
This book is still available to read on Kindle. direction of Steve’s Bible study. After last conversation I had with John. europe/final-waco-death-toll-2320247.html.
6 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 7
Continuities and
suggests believers need to attain a 1983 he impressed Lois Roden, who recruitment activity around Newbold
discontinuities:
FEATURE
FEATURE
state of sinlessness before Christ’s endorsed him as the next prophet College. His focus was on Koresh’s
return – and, over time, a literal and called her followers to come to self-belief in his ability to unlock and
return of Jesus to the newly Mt Carmel and hear him speak.17 At explain the seventh seal spoken of in
Waco thirty years on
emerging nation of Israel. In 1935 this time, he was intimately involved Revelation 8:1 – something only the
Victor moved from Los Angeles, CA with Lois Roden, so that the child of Lamb of God could do. He was
to Waco, TX, anticipating a move to the prophet would be the Chosen remembered for using the phrase,
Palestine with the 144,000 within a One.18 George claimed that the ‘the truth that will blow your mind’.
year or so.9 After his unexpected relationship had commenced with Koresh’s visit in 1988 and 1989
death, Florence Houteff, Victor’s rape, and reported Howell to the followed up the interests Schneider
much younger second wife, assumed authorities.19 The relationship ended had made. At Newbold they were
Dr Steve Currow, Principal of Newbold College of Higher Education the leadership. Along with her early in 1984 on the day when successful in influencing Livingstone
T
leaders, she predicted that Jesus Howell married Rachel Jones, the Fagan, John McBean and Cliff Sellors.
would return on 22 April 1959, and 14-year-old daughter of Perry and Fagan was most influential in the
called all their followers to Mt Mary Bell Jones – long-time Nottingham area, McBean in the
he devastating loss of life, Adventists to enable his pacifist Carmel, the name of the property in followers of The Shepherd’s Rod (in Manchester area, and Cliff Sellors
especially that of children, in followers to avoid conscription Waco, TX, for the Passover, prior to Texas, at this point in time, girls aged and others in the London area.25
the siege of the Branch during World War II.5 relocating to Israel as and when 14 were legally able to marry with Followers were encouraged to go to
Davidians at Waco on 19 April 1993 Not only do the Branch Davidians revealed by the Holy Spirit. When parental permission). Mt Carmel for the Jewish festivals
was tragic. As highlighted in the recognise Ellen White, considered a Jesus didn’t return at the specified At every opportunity, George and the summers. A number also
media coverage of the event and the prophet by Seventh-day Adventists, as time, the Shepherd’s Rod splintered continued to challenge Howell in a moved there with their families.
subsequent trials and inquiries, the one of their Seven Shepherds6 and members at the 1997 South England into a number of groups.10 In 1962, tussle over leadership. After a fire at Some family members were
alleged failure of the authorities in reference her writings extensively, Conference camp meeting.8 Florence herself renounced the their press building, George, on the successful in encouraging their
the way they responded and but the Branch Davidians also share teachings and closed the church.11 basis of alleged eyewitness testimony, relatives to leave Mt Carmel and
managed the case was astonishing. presuppositions with Seventh-day Historical background During this tumultuous period accused Howell of setting it.20 As a return.
However, what’s even more Adventists regarding, for example, an In a journey spanning over 60 years, after the death of Victor, Benjamin result, the group split, with some In August 1989, Howell released
astonishing to me is that people emphasis on the end of time, the and involving several leadership Roden, a convert from Judaism, following George, but the majority an audio tape titled ‘New Light’. This
followed David Koresh in the first emergence of latter-day prophets, and crises, Houteff’s Shepherd’s Rod assumed the leadership of the group following Howell. Howell had to tape reported his claim that God had
place. the concept of ‘present truth’. In morphed into David Koresh’s Branch and became the lawful owner of the leave the Mt Carmel property. The told him to procreate with all the
addition, Branch Davidians’ beliefs Davidians, a group that today’s property. The links with Judaism ultimate showdown between George women in the group to establish the
Continuities and practices are still evident to a Seventh-day Adventists do not and the nation of Israel grew. He and Howell occurred when George ‘House of David’. He also claimed
As various authors have greater or lesser degree in some recognise and one that is not part of established a vegetarian village in challenged Vernon as to who could that God had told him to start
demonstrated,1 there can be no groups on the edges of Seventh-day the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Israel (1958) and settlers’ rights resurrect Anna Hughes, a believer building an ‘army for God’ to prepare
denial that there are points of Adventism; and, in the spirit of Theologically, one of the ways in (1960) for his followers.12 More who had died at Mt Carmel some for the end of days and the salvation
connection between Koresh’s Branch Houteff’s mission to reform, Branch which Victor Houteff diverged from emphasis was placed on the seven twenty years earlier. Howell, with of his followers.26 At this point some
Davidians and the Seventh-day Davidians continue to recruit the Seventh-day Adventist Church festivals of the sanctuary.13 Just prior seven followers, entered the Mt of the Branch Davidians, such as
Adventist Church. Koresh himself primarily from the Seventh-day was through his literal interpretation to the death of Benjamin in 1978, Carmel property and, while allegedly Marc Breault, left the group and
had been a Seventh-day Adventist for Adventist Church.7 Even after the of the characteristics and identity of Lois Roden claimed that she had trying to gain evidence that George warned others, including the
a couple of years prior to joining the Manchester Inquest into the deaths the 144,000 of Revelation chapter 7. received revelation that the Holy had interfered with the corpse, was authorities, of a number of issues on
Branch Davidians.2 The Branch of Britons during the Waco siege, He linked his interpretation with Spirit was female and subsequently involved in a shoot-out that left the compound, including polygamy,
Davidians trace their roots to the while the church was still in horror both perfectionism – an unbiblical commenced her publication George injured. This resulted in a sexual relationships with underage
teachings of Victor Houteff. and shock, a Branch Davidian was teaching stemming largely from the SHEkinah, edited by a long-term court case where Howell’s girls, and child abuse.27 Later, a
Houteff’s teachings were rejected by found to be recruiting disaffected work of M. L. Andreason that follower, Perry Jones.14 Hence, she accomplices were acquitted and courier delivering a broken package
both his local Seventh-day also assumed the leadership, and, Howell’s case ended in a mistrial.21 became aware of probable
Adventist church in Los using a legal injunction, excluded her George Roden was sent to jail for infringements of the Firearms Act
Angeles (1930)3 and the son, George Roden, from leadership, contempt of court and for and reported this to the authorities.28
corporate church (1934).4 as she did not think he was fit to be disregarding his mother’s earlier legal In 1993, these developments led to
Despite being the next prophet.15 With the injunction excluding him from the raid on 28 February and the start
disfellowshipped (a process emergence of feminist theology in leadership. Howell returned to Mt of the siege by federal agents that,
by which a person is other Christian circles, Lois’s Carmel and paid the back taxes to after 51 days, culminated in a fire and
removed from membership emphasis on the Holy Spirit as establish himself there.22 the discovery of 75 bodies, 25 of
of the Adventist Church), female propelled her onto the wider Howell visited Israel; Australia which were children. It is also noted
Houteff continued to claim stage at a number of Christian (with Clive Doyle, a long-term that the Waco Tribune-Herald
that he was a Seventh-day conferences. After being asked to follower of the Branch Davidians); published articles on the ‘Sinful
Adventist; and, through his leave the Tyler Seventh-day Adventist Hawaii; and the UK, recruiting Messiah’ on Saturday 27 February,
publication, The Shepherd’s church, Vernon Howell (who later followers.23 The first significant detailing the illegal activities at Mt
Rod, and other means, changed his name to David Koresh) recruit was Marc Breault (1986), Carmel and noting that ‘the law
pursued a mission to call arrived at Mt Carmel in 1981.16 He who subsequently recruited Steve watches, but has done little’.29
for reform in the Seventh- was well received as a carpenter, and Schneider (1986), an active church Subsequent to the end of the siege,
day Adventist Church. after a few months he went to member in the Diamond Head the dispute over the title of the
Indeed, Houteff only California to pursue a career in the Adventist Church, Hawaii.24 property continued, with George
formalised the name The music industry. He was Schneider visited the UK (1988, Roden’s divorced wife, Amo, claiming
Shepherd’s Rod Seventh-day Mount Carmel Centre ©Lorie Shaull unsuccessful, and on his return in 1990) and based much of his ownership. Clive Doyle and other
8 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 9
Divergence in beliefs and practices
FEATURE
‘But those who hope in the LORD
From Seventh-day Adventists To Koresh’s Branch Davidians
responding to a God of love fearing a God of authority
the God who became man as the Sinless the Sinful Messiah, where a man claimed to be
Messiah and died unjustly at the hands of God and was prepared to orchestrate his death at
Roman authorities aged 33
having an assurance of salvation
Jesus ministering in the heavenly sanctuary
expecting a global second coming
age 33 by combating the government authorities
striving in ascetic sacrifice
continuing the festivals of the Old Testament sanctuary services
a literal second coming in Jerusalem (or Texas)
will renew their strength.
of Jesus, which every eye will see
God’s end-time actions to destroy evil
with David Koresh leading the resurrected
human actions, including fighting
on God’s behalf in the end-time battle
They will soar on wings like eagles;
pacifists/non-combatants
students of God’s revealed word in context
armed militia
followers of ‘new light’, where Scripture
is used selectively to justify beliefs
they will run and not grow weary,
an established prophet overemphasising the writings of the
prophet and seeking a new prophet
they will walk and not be faint.’
(Isaiah 40:31, NIV)
testing the prophets by their fruits justifying intentional aberrant behaviour –
including child sexual abuse, illegally dealing in
guns – because the Bible is filled with sinners
an accountable organisation organisations and their representatives being a sign of Babylon
a remnant with a message to the whole world a remnant of a remnant where the only
mission is to reform the remnant
monogamy polygamy (including under-age ‘wives’)
health reformers consumers of alcohol, tobacco and junk foods
followers remained on the site and believe (Acts 17:10, 11). We need to Messenger, vol. 102, no. 21, 10 October 1997, p. 3
Tabor and Gallagher, p. 37
built a chapel.30 As of 2006, some of have confidence in the sufficiency of
9
10
Lowell Tarling, The Edges of Adventism (Bermagui
their followers were still expecting the ministry of Jesus and the South, NSW: Galilee), pp. 125-142
Reid, pp. 6, 7
David Koresh to return to this earth, resultant assurance of salvation
11
12
Newport, pp. 123, 124; and
despite him not returning in (Romans 8:1). We need to live https://www.2branches.info/special-branch-studies/
December 1996 or late August 1999 authentically, with our actions being welcome/our-history.html (accessed 26 February 2023)
13
Tabor and Gallagher, p. 39
as they had calculated.31 congruent with our beliefs. We need 14
Waite, p. 114
to teach people to swim in any Tommy Witherspoon, ‘District Judge throws out
15
Roden’s leadership lawsuit’, 28 January 1989:
Discontinuities context, rather than damming the https://wacotrib.com/news/branch_davidians/district-
Having identified some of the ocean and living as a recluse.33 Jesus’ judge-throws-out-roden-s-leadership-lawsuit/article_
c3d93279-5210-5c20-899d-3840c4d40b9c.html
primary points of contact between commission remains: ‘As the Father (accessed 26 February 2023) as cited in Wikipedia,
Koresh’s Branch Davidians and the has sent me, so I send you’ (John ‘George Roden’: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_
Roden (accessed 26 February 2023)
Seventh-day Adventist Church, and 20:21, NRSV). 16
Waite, pp. 112, 113
the development of the movement 1
Cari Hoyt Haus and Madlyn Lewis Hamblin, In
17
Wessinger, p. 1
Tabor and Gallagher, p. 41
from Victor Houteff to Vernon
18
the Wake of Waco: Why Were Adventists Among the 19
Wessinger, p. 1
Howell (David Koresh), I will now Victims? (Hagerstown, MD: Review & Herald, 1993),
pp. 141-158; Kenneth G. C. Newport, The Branch
20
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Koresh
proceed to outline those elements
21
Waite, p. 116
Davidians of Waco: The History and Beliefs of an 22
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Koresh
that might appropriately be Apocalyptic Sect (Oxford: Oxford University Press,
2006); James D. Tabor and Eugene V. Gallagher,
23
Wessinger, pp. 1, 2
described as major points of Joel Sandfur and Charles Liu, ‘Apocalypse at
24
Why Waco? (Berkley, CA: University of California Diamond Head: Remembering Waco’, Spectrum,
discontinuity. The graphic above Press, 1995) pp. 43-51 vol. 30, no.1, May 1993, p. 30
Albert A. C. Waite, ‘From Seventh-day Adventism
summarises a range of theological Albert A. C. Waite and Laura Osei, ‘The British
2
25
to David Koresh: the British Connection’, AUSS, vol. Connection’, Spectrum, vol. 23, no. 1, spring 1993,
developments that emerged. These 38, no. 1, spring 2000, p. 112 pp. 36-38
William Claiborne and Jim McGee, ‘The Making
changes demonstrate a tremendous Ashley Fantz, ‘Who was David Koresh?’
3 26
of David Koresh’, Spectrum, vol. 23, no. 1, May 1993, http://edition.cnn.com/2011/US/04/14/waco.koresh/
shift in belief and practice, arising p. 18 index.html (accessed 26 February 2023)
from someone who claimed Tabor and Gallagher, p. 35 Waite, p. 119
4 27
George W. Reid, ‘The Branch Davidians/Shepherd’s Peter Van Saint, ‘I’ve kept my story secret for the
authority directly from God. The
5 28
Rod – Who Are They?’ Adventist Review, 1 April last 25 years – I didn’t want to take this to my grave’,
focus moves from a rational study of 1993, pp. 6, 7
Kendra Haloviak Valentine, ‘The Waco Wars
CBS 48 Hours: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/waco-
texas-siege-i-have-been-blame/ (accessed 11 January
Scripture to following the sensational
6
Revealed: Reflecting on Waco 25 Years Later’, 2023)
ramblings of a charismatic leader Spectrum: https://spectrummagazine.org/article/2018/ 29
Mark England and Darlene McCormack, ‘Sinful
04/19/wars-waco-revealed-reflecting-waco-25-years-later
whose word ‘was gospel’.32
Messiah – 7-part series’, Waco Tribune-Herald,
(accessed 18 February 2023), p. 12 27 February 1993: https://wacotrib.com/news/branch_
The onus is on each one of us to 7
Catherine Wessinger, Branch Davidians, 1981-2006: davidians/sinfulmessiah/?_gl=1*1stn74w*_ga*MTA4
ensure that we are diligent students
An Extended Profile, with Material from Internal FBI MDQxOT> (accessed 2 February 2023)
Documents, Academia: https://www.academia.edu/ 30
Newport, p. 178
of the Bible, and, like the Bereans, 4367109/_Branch_Davidians_1981_2006_An_ 31
Newport, p. 329
test teachings by the Scriptures so Extended_Profile_with_Material_from_Internal_ Haus and Hamblin, p. 95
32
FBI_Documents_ (accessed 22 February 2023), p. 7 Caleb Rosado, ‘Lessons from Waco II’, Ministry,
that we can be sure of what we
33
8
David Marshall, ‘Editorial: Steady As She Goes’, vol. 66, no. 8, August 1993, p. 18
10 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 11
Baked Banana, Cinnamon
FUN ZONE
& Raisin Pancakes BREAKFAST
These pancakes are so quick and easy to make. They can also be made 25
mins
the night before and gently heated when you are ready to eat them. Try
out different toppings and add the fruit or sauce of your choice. My
favourite toppings are blueberries and maple syrup or chopped mango, 4
portions
pineapple and banana.
1 Preheat oven to 180ºC (350ºF or gas mark 4).
2 Line a large baking tray with baking paper or grease-proof paper.
3 Combine the oat flour, wholemeal flour, baking powder,
cinnamon and salt.
4 Stir well.
5 Add banana to the dry ingredients.
6 Add the almond milk and raisins.
7 Stir well.
Place ¼ of the mixture
8 onto the baking tray
to form 4 pancakes.
9 Bake for about 12-15
minutes.
Allow to cool slightly
10 and serve topped with
fruit or a sauce of
your choice.
Shopping list
flour-type
nely ground into a
Oats – 1 cup (fi nds)
for about 30 co
se
mixture by blending ¼ cu p
grain flour –
Spelt or whole
r – 1½ tsp
Baking powde
tsp
Cinnamon – ½
Salt – ¼ tsp hed
e ripe, finely mas
Banana – 1 larg
1¼ cups
Almond milk –
p
Raisins – ¼ cu
Taken from Colouring books for kids: The story of Jesus. To purchase your copy, follow this link: This recipe is taken from the book, Cooking with Kids, by Kirly-Sue. To purchase your copy, follow this link:
12 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 13
https://lifesourcebookshop.co.uk/product/colouring-books-for-kids-story-of-jesus/ https://lifesourcebookshop.co.uk/product/cooking-with-kids-paperback/
Environmental health – part 3
52 weeks of doing good
ENHANCING HEALTH
ADRA
Safe working space ADRA’s work around the world
by Sharon Platt-McDonald, by Bert Smit, CEO, ADRA-UK
BUC Director for Health, Adventist Community Services & Women’s Ministries
This article looks at evidence-based ways to protect your work environment
ADRA-UK, as part of the worldwide ADRA network, works 52
weeks of the year, supporting the world’s most vulnerable people.
H
to safeguard well-being.
Emergencies Rupendehi and
ow safe is your working space? In this issue, we highlight some of By the time you read this article, the Turkey/Syria Kapilvastu
the hazards negatively impacting our work spaces, and explore earthquakes and subsequent devastating aftershocks will districts through
evidence-based solutions to enhance our working environment. no longer be headlines. But the lives of those injured and the development
First, let’s begin with a workplace case study. those millions that are homeless and displaced will take of dairy
years to be rebuilt. production
Case study Thanks to your support, ADRA-UK has raised over systems. This
When Brian’s company decided to take on more employees, they did not £100,000 to support the work on the ground in these two will enable the farmers to increase their income and
factor in the impact it would have on the working space. Subsequently, workplace-related diseases, such as countries. enhance their livelihoods.
when Brian had to give up his office for a more senior manager to use, lung cancer linked to inhaling Miriam Watt, from Australia, has worked for ADRA I recently had the privilege of visiting the project in
he was asked to work in a multipurpose room which housed a large carcinogens on the job, ‘account for Syria since 2014. In a recent interview with Australian Nepal with our Programmes team and Chief Finance
photocopier in close proximity to his desk. Due to the huge volume of around 86% of all premature death’.3 broadcaster SBS News, she reflected on how this disaster Officer. As with my other trips, I was truly humbled by
photocopying that was undertaken, and poor ventilation in the room, Brian There is much guidance in has devastated the region and impacted ADRA Syria’s the faithfulness of you, our members. Each donation
complained to his manager that the fumes emitted from the photocopier relation to keeping the work humanitarian work. enables us to help some of the world’s most vulnerable
were making him feel unwell. environment healthy. A government When asked about the needs of survivors amid the people. Your donation, however big or small, helps us to
Complaining of headaches, eye irritation and increased asthma flare-ups, agency, the Health and Safety deepening crisis and the lack of aid, Miriam commented respond to funding calls from selected institutional and
he went to see his doctor, who diagnosed sick building syndrome. The Executive (HSE), in its outline of that some of the people are so shocked by the devastation government funders with matched funds.
doctor indicated that prolonged exposure to the photocopier in a room with healthy working spaces, lists the that they are unable to respond, while others need On behalf of ADRA-UK, we would like to thank you
very poor ventilation was probably the cause of his symptoms. following as key aspects to consider: everything – food, mattresses, blankets – anything that for supporting us both in emergencies and with
• Good ventilation – a supply of can help their families get through the days ahead. development.
Photocopier cautions fresh, clean air drawn from March 15 2023 will mark the 12-year anniversary of To make a donation, visit the ADRA-UK homepage at
A Wellness Health at Work article shares evidence of adverse reaction to outside or a ventilation system the start of the civil conflict in Syria. The impact of the www.adra.org.uk/ and click
photocopier overexposure: ‘Photocopiers create ozone through their “corona • A ‘reasonable working conflict is hampering the efforts to get aid to those much- the ‘Donate Now!’ button at
wires” that apply a charge to the paper so the ink will cling to it. As ozone is temperature’ so it’s comfortable needed areas in the country where the situation is already the top of the screen –
HOW TO DONATE
to work (usually at least 16°C,
Our donations page is currently
highly reactive, any adverse health effects will be found essentially at the so challenging for millions. Miriam states that there are alternatively, you can also active: follow the link on the left. You
sites of initial contact – the respiratory tract (nose, throat and airways), the or 13°C for strenuous work, critical shortages of fuel, and harsh winter conditions. make a donation directly to
can also scan this QR code, which
lungs, and at higher concentrations the eyes. . . . If exposed to ozone, one unless other laws require lower Buildings are completely flattened. The earthquake ADRA-UK by clicking on the
will take you to the donations page.
could experience headaches, eye and breathing irritations.’1 temperatures – see: struck just after 4am in the morning while people were following link:
In addition, Office Machine Specialists caution: ‘Photocopiers release https://www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/ still at home. Whole families have passed away. In some https://app.donorfy.com/
ozone into the atmosphere, which is the primary explanation why you index.htm) instances, parents rescued their children only for them to donate/C4311R6V76/donate.
should not sit at work next to a copier.’2 • Lighting suitable for the work perish. Their children are being cared for by relatives or
being carried out neighbours.
Lung impact from environmental toxins • Enough room space and suitable Miriam has lived in the country for the past nine years
The British Lung Foundation (Asthma & Lung UK) identified what they workstations and seating and has seen many changes. However, this current
call ‘asthmagens’, which are substances that can lead to the development • A clean workplace with earthquake has escalated the challenges of conflict. There
of asthma. Listing the common workplace pollutants, they highlight the appropriate waste containers are shortages of basic services and supplies. People are
following which employees may be exposed to at higher levels than at home: struggling to put food on their tables and support their
certain vehicle spray paints, dust from flour, wood dust, metal working For more information on an families.
fluids and cleaning agents (https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/indoor-air- optimum working environment ‘The country was moving towards recovery,’ she says.
pollution/indoor-air-pollution-at-work). visit: https://www.unison.org.uk/get- ‘ADRA Syria was moving its resources into livelihoods to
help/knowledge/health-and-safety/ support families to rebuild their lives. But this
Workplace toxins and sickness working-environment/. earthquake has set us back to providing basic distribution
Assessing the impact of workplace toxins, research continues to present an for those in need.’
alarming picture in relation to their impact on employee well-being and Good health!
scale of sickness absence. In an online article (March 2022) by Eco MENA, Development
captioned ‘Are toxic chemicals harming me at work?’ author Salman Zafar At the beginning of August last year, ADRA-UK started
https://www.healthxchange.sg/wellness/health-
states the following: ‘Toxins found at work are poisoning us and ending lives the Enhanced Rural AI (Terai) Project for Smallholder
1
work/office-photocopiers-health-hazards
on a global scale. A 2018 United Nations report stated that ‘one worker dies 2
https://omscopiers.com/is-sitting-next-to-a-photocopier- Dairy Farms in Nepal.
at least every 30 seconds from exposure to toxic industrial chemicals, bad-for-you/
3
https://www.ecomena.org/are-toxic-chemicals-harming- The aim of the project is to strengthen the resilience
pesticides, dust, radiation, and other hazardous substances.’ In addition, me-at-work/ and improve the income of smallholder farmers in the
14 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 15
Taking action on mental well- Assessing the impact of culture on mental well-being,
BUC and Stanborough projective look at the ‘next step’ by the headteacher, Mrs
NEWS
NEWS
being: BUC Director Sharon
Primary School health
expression of individuals’ mental health and their Madden, and closing remarks from the safeguarding and
perception of their own psychological wellness, inclusion lead, Mrs Nicky Adewole.
Platt-McDonald speaks to BBC Psychology Today published an article on their website, Afterwards, refreshments were served and attendees
partnership
titled: ‘The Role of Culture in Mental Health’ (25 enjoyed a special cake marking the launch event. The
Three Counties Radio March 2021). It states: ‘When it comes to mental
health, the culture of the society that surrounds us
well-being champions also demonstrated some of the
skills they had learnt, including exercises for physical
influences our attitudes about seeking help, the type by Sharon Platt-McDonald, BUC Director for Health, fitness, arts and crafts, the reading corner, and a writers’
by Sharon Platt-McDonald, BUC Director for Health, of support we need, and whether or not we decide to session. Guests were invited to peruse the well-being
Adventist Community Services & Women’s Ministries Adventist Community Services & Women’s Ministries
seek help at all. Cultural norms can account for minor resources on display and visit the well-being room,
differences in how people communicate their highlighting the well-being champions and their work.
F
symptoms [and] major omissions of which symptoms Reflecting on the partnership launch, the headteacher,
they report.’1 Tiann Madden, shared:
riday 10 February saw the inaugural launch of the
‘Stanborough Primary School was thrilled to work with the
Well-being and Mental Health Partnership between
Mental health and nutrition BUC Health Department to shine a light on well-being
the BUC Health Ministries Department and
In their analysis of the impact of nutrition on mental and mental health within our school community. Friday
Stanborough Primary School. This initiative is an
well-being, the UK’s Mental Health Foundation states: was a magnificent opportunity for us to showcase what the
augmentation of the BUC Health Ministries Child
‘One of the most obvious yet under-recognised factors school has achieved to date, from the creation of a well-
Health Strategy, along with the school’s Well-being
for mental health is nutrition. What we eat and being room, the choosing of a school therapy dog, and the
Curriculum, that will enable a robust source of support
drink affects how we feel, think and behave. . . . The appointment of a well-being consultant and well-being
on health and mental well-being for the school. It entails
Foundation’s message is not that nutrition is a silver champions to a planned redesign of our playground to
the development of a strategic health focus that
bullet for mental health problems, but it does have a improve our physicality, and a refurbished kitchen to
encompasses seven areas of well-being: namely, spiritual,
part to play in prevention, treatment and recovery.’2 improve our eating choices. . . . We are excited to be the
mental, physical, emotional, relational, social and
driving force in this area, and remain committed and
environmental health.
Mental health and exercise impact dedicated to improving our school community’s well-being
The launch took place at Stanborough Primary School
Numerous studies continue to highlight the importance and mental health. Research has shown that a coordinated
and was attended by pupils, teachers, parents and invited
and evidence-informed approach to mental health in
of physical activity on aspects of well-being such as guests. In attendance were Dean Russell, MP for Watford,
F
schools leads to improved pupil well-being and enhanced
enhanced cognition, brain regeneration, maintaining who gave a brief address; the school chaplain, Pastor Ray
ebruary 2 2023 was ‘Time to Talk Day’, a day when the learning and outcomes for all. Ultimately, we want our
mental well-being, and helping to combat mild Patrick, who presented the opening prayer; and a school
nation was encouraged to talk about mental well-being pupils to be in an environment which enables them to
depression (http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/ governor, Enoch Kanagaraj, who delivered the closing
and take action to change the negative attitudes and thrive and succeed in all areas of their lives.’
exercise-depression). prayer. The occasion was a celebratory one, marking
stigmas surrounding poor mental health. Its efficacy in boosting our mood is also well various milestones and areas of achievement.
The BUC Director for Health, Sharon Platt-McDonald, We solicit your prayers as we develop this initiative to
researched. Regular exercise causes fewer stress hormones Presentations delivered by the headteacher, Mrs Tiann
was invited to BBC Three Counties Radio on Sunday 5 enhance the holistic aspects of school life and pupil
(such as cortisol) to be released, and stimulates the Madden; well-being lead, Ms Rebecca Dean-Roberts; and
February to talk about mental well-being and her work well-being.
release of chemicals called endorphins (happy hormones), well-being consultant, Sharon Platt-McDonald, focused
with community groups. Currently working with the One on goals that were achieved in the following
which lifts our mood. In highlighting exercise as a mood
Vision charity, she is part of a team who will be delivering areas: school health; therapeutic school dog;
enhancer, Dr Michael Otto of Boston University says:
an initiative titled ‘Community Connectors’. Speaking well-being champions; and well-being
‘The link between exercise and mood is pretty strong.’
with BBC Three Counties Radio show host Edward Adoo, consultant.
Giving its specific benefits, Otto states: ‘Usually
she outlined the scope of One Vision’s Community Following the presentations, certificates and
within five minutes after moderate exercise you get
Connectors Project. Sharon explained the following special badges were awarded to each well-being
aspects: a mood-enhancement effect.’4
champion. Presenting these to each individual
• Community Connectors are members of diverse were Dean Russell MP and a BUC director,
communities who understand the barriers, stigmas Mental health and faith
Nurturing your faith has been found to be a Sharon Platt-McDonald. Official photos were
and cultural sensitivities of each of these communities, then taken. The event concluded with a
and know what help is available. protective factor in mental well-being. On their website
• They will signpost friends, family members, colleagues, (https.//www.rethink.org), Rethink Mental Illness posted an
and neighbours towards the support available in their article headed: ‘Spirituality, religion and mental illness’.
communities. They state: ‘Spirituality and religion can be helpful to
• Community Connectors will have access to, and good manage stressful life events and improve your mental health.’ 5
relations with, these diverse communities, and will be The BUC Health Ministries Department has
very effective at integrating with their local published a Mental Wellness Handbook for Churches.
communities – providing a bridge between local Please contact the department if you would like to
people and services and building community capacity purchase a copy. You can call the BUC office on 01923
and social capital. 672251 to speak with our Health Ministries personnel.
• They will develop promotional and marketing We pray for God’s favour as He directs our ministry in
materials in key languages. addressing the diverse issues that impact all our
communities.
So, what action can we take, individually, to positively
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/becoming-resilient/202103/the-role-culture-
impact our mental health potential? Here are some
1
in-mental-health 2https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/
aspects to consider as outlined by Sharon in her radio nutrition-and-mental-health-obvious-yet-under-recognised 3https://www.nutritionist-
interview: resource.org.uk/articles/nutrition-and-mental-health.html 4https://www.apa.org/monitor/
2011/12/exercise 5https://www.rethink.org/advice-and-information/living-with-mental-
Mental health and cultural implications illness/wellbeing-physical-health/spirituality-religion-and-mental-illness/
16 | Messenger 3-2023 Messenger 3-2023 | 17You can also read
