Thy Youth Stay SDA -Page 6
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Thy Youth Stay SDA
-Page 6
EDITORIAL
RECORD
Official Paper
Seventh-day Adventist Church
South Pacific Division
Editor James Coffin
Associate Editors Gary Krause
Bruce Manners
rt T
A Different Drum
he Adventist conference had turned
into a nightmare. The organisers
knew that it would be difficult, but there
Perhaps the only restraint shown by
this group of Adventists came from the
fact that no one resorted to physical viol-
Assistant Editor Joy Totenhofer
Editorial Secretary Glenda Fairall
were several issues that had to be worked ence.
Copy Editor Graeme Brown through. This, they thought, would be A resolution was discussed that
Illustrator Wayne Louk
Senior Consulting Editor Athal Tolhurst
the best way of handling it. And they fig- "nothing be taught . . . contrary to what
Correspondents Ray Baird, Lyn Bartlett, Terry ured that, with most of the men being had been taught in the past." After dis-
Butler, Ray Coombe, Matupit Darius, Aisake Kabu,
Louis Solomon, Neroli Zaska
clergy, there would be a certain amount cussion about the leading of the Holy
Regional Reporters David Blanch, Robert Douglas, of restraint. Not so! Spirit, the resolution was voted down,
George Drinkall, Eric Greenwell, Larry Laredo, Instead, the various sides on the vari- with only one in favour (and the voter
Malcolm Potts. Leigh Rice, Lyndon Schick, Gordon
Smith, Bill Townend, Allan Walshe ous issues claimed to have God with held both hands high to emphasise his
Local Reporters Church Communication Secretaries them. They held their Bibles high and position).
Subscriptions South Pacific Division, $A25.00 defended their position as truth. Some feared that if they accepted the
$NZ28.75. All other regions, $A48.25 SNZ55.50. Air
mail postage rates on application. Order from Signs They argued over theology and pro- "new light" there might be something
Publishing Company, Warburton, Victoria 3799, phetic interpretation. Several had gone else to come that would be totally unac-
Australia.
Manuscripts All copy for the paper should be sent into print and copies of their articles ceptable. They didn't want to start the
to The Editor, RECORD, Signs Publishing Company, were passed from person to person as evi- church heading in a direction they would
Warburton, Victoria 3799. Phone (059)66 9111.
Telefax (059)66 9019. dence. Some used the term "new light." regret later.
Printed weekly by Signs Publishing Company. Others used the term "heresy." "Truth will lose nothing by investi-
Papers were presented to the as- gation. . . ," said one attendee, in what
Directory of the South Pacific Division of the sembled group. The presenters were became a significant presentation.
Seventh-day Adventist Church, 148 Fox Valley
Road, Wahroonga, NSW 2076. heckled as they spoke. One was taunted "Everyone should feel he has the privi-
Phone (02) 489 7122. (Legal Trustee: Australasian because of his shortness—although it's lege of searching the Scriptures for him-
Conference Association Limited. Secretary: Tom
Andrews, Assistant Secretaries: Richard Milne, hard to work out what that had to do self "
Properties; Bruce Jackson, Finance.) with his message. Then came an attempt at some heal-
President Walter Scragg Because a couple of the presenters ing. "Some interpretations of Scripture
Secretary Athal Tolhurst
Treasurer Tom Andrews were younger men. Some questioned given by [one of the speakers] . . . I do
Associate Secretary Vern Parrnenter their experience. Their supporters said not regard as correct. But I believe him to
Associate Treasurers Owen Mason, Lynray Wilson that their presentations were "vigorous," be perfectly honest in his views, and I
Field Secretary Arthur Ferch
delivered with the note of authority that would respect his feelings and treat him
Departments and Services:
ADRA George Laxton (Director), Neil Hughes,
their message deserved. Their opponents as a Christian gentleman. . . .
Peter Truscott resented them and their message. "The fact that he honestly holds some
Adventist Health Don Bain (Director), Harley The president's arrival at the confer- views of Scripture differing from yours or
Stanton
Adventist Media Centre Nat Devenish (Manager)
ence had been delayed by illness. But he
Archivist and Statistician Roy Clifford sent a message to "hold the fort." For
Auditing Service Gordon Bland, Eric Hokin, Max
Mitchell, Ernie Moffitt, Neville Sawert
some, the president's word was "gospel." At least no one re-
Christian Services for the Blind and Hearing It was known that he didn't want to
Impaired Em Lemke
Church Ministries Bryan Craig (Acting Director and
change any of the positions that had sorted to physical viol-
Sabbath School, Family Life), Barry Gane (Youth), been adopted through the years. ence.
Peter Jack (Personal Ministries), Jim Lansdown A suggestion was made that they
(Stewardship), Lynelle Chester (Children's Ministry)
Communication, Public Affairs and Religious should wait for him to arrive before they
Liberty Ray Coombe actually began to look at the issues at mine is no reason why we should treat
Education Gerald Clifford (Director), Les Devine,
Barry Hill, Ian Howie, Bob Spoor
hand. This was countered by a speech: him as an offender, or as a dangerous
Health Food Eugene Grosser (Director), Lance "The Lord wants His work to go forward man, and make him the subject of unjust
Rogers, Ray Windus and not wait for any man." criticism."
Ministerial Association David Currie
Nutrition Education Gail Ormsby
But the main damage was done after Ellen White's presentation turned the
Publishing Jan Knopper the meetings. When the participants re- conference around. Many, though not
Risk Management Service Robert Smith (Manager) turned to their rooms the discussion all, of those at the 1888 Minneapolis
Trust Services Jim Lansdown
really heated up. Some lobbied to gain General Conference session accepted
support for their viewpoint. There was the teaching of righteousness by faith.
much joking as other viewpoints were That presentation in written form— A
being discredited. Criticism reigned. Call to a Deeper Study of the Word—has
It had been thought that each evening, taught us today the value of Biblical in-
after the meetings, there would be a time vestigation. And it has taught us to re-
of worship together as a group. That was spect those whose views differ from our
cancelled. The spirit wasn't there. own. Or has it? Bruce Manners.
2 RECORD April 28, 1990LETTERS
"Gap Fest" a Seventh-day Fortress? zine such as the RECORD.
Re Gary Krause's editorial "The If we're serious about not losing more, Fortunately, I'm not one of those
Patient Youth" (March 17): None of us how do we persuade our members to be- talked about, as I'm very active in my
"oldies" are angels, but we do love and come Seventh-day Adventurers? Or do home church (Wahroonga). But I'd love
accept young people. We oldies, too, we leave that to the "shaking"? to see more youth involved in running
sometimes say (even if we're wrong) that R. A. Richards, WA. the church and in the church's projects
it's the way we honestly see it. and activities.
So what about soliciting agenda items Discovered Commandments Thanks for your concern for the
from your peers and ours for a "gap If the writer of "Missing Command- youth. (Miss) Jenny Atkin, NSW.
fest"—both in the RECORD and in per- ments" (Letter, March 17) isn't in a pos-
son. Maybe we all could and would learn ition to change his clothes and cut his Toleration
from each other. The agenda might start hair, fine. But he should remember, he's The editorial "The Patient Youth"
with listening to, and sharing the light we in God's house, and the Holy Spirit is (March 17) highlighted the need for tol-
have, with each other. John Dever, NSW. there. eration. The real problem is when one
Would he go before the Queen in the group perceives an activity to be accept-
Fresh Air way he suggests? The King of Kings is his able and another perceives it to be unac-
Top marks for YOUTH ON RE- judge, not I. Una Gowling, Qld. ceptable.
CORD (March 10). The thing that For example, one group may view tra-
struck me was that the dynamic founders Who Would God Choose? ditional worship services as tired and life-
of our church were under 30 years of age. The cover of the RECORD (March less, yet another group may view modern
Perhaps we should replace all our 10) reminded me that ours is (was?) a attitudes to worship as trivial and secu-
church leaders with people under 30. young church. lar.
They would make some mistakes Would we appoint a 23-year-old Merely exchanging rigid, precon-
through lack of experience, but maybe it (Uriah Smith) as editor of the Signs and ceived perceptions on what is acceptable
would bring the breath of fresh air the RECORD? Would we make a 21-year- can't resolve the conflict. We need to de-
church needs. Sheryl Barnes, NSW. old (William White) business manager fine terms such as "worldly" and "life-
of Avondale College? less" in ways that aren't exclusive to con-
Off the Beam We who are more mature say the servative or radical. Ryan Young, Vic.
The editorial "The Patient Youth" youth of today couldn't fill these pos-
(March 17) was presumptuous in its as- itions. But I really wonder who God
sumptions and lacking in its constructive would choose. It was He who chose then,
Views expressed in Letters to the Editor do not necess-
propositions. In our church the youth do remember. Graham Johnston, Qld. arily represent those of the editors or the denomination.
sit on the nominating committee and on Letters should not exceed 250 words and should be mailed
the church board, as well as lead out in Spot-On to RECORD Editor, Signs Publishing Company,
Warburton, Victoria 3799. Writers must include their
Sabbath school. And if their partici- The editorial "The Patient Youth" name, address and telephone number. Letters received
pation is limited to some extent, so is (March 17) really hit the spot. It's nice to more than three weeks after the date of the issue carrying
see that both sides can be told in a maga- the article to which they respond will normally not be
that of every other church member. printed. All letters will be edited to meet space and literary
The solution for our youth is very requirements, but the author's original meaning will not
simple: re-introduce a regular youth
meeting on Sabbath afternoon. Put the
youth fully in charge, and see how it
4.0 be changed. Not all letters received will be published.
prospers. But don't try to make the orgA I F THOSE FE0PLE
morning service "all things to all
CHOOSE ro LIVE
people." It profits nobody.
WHERE LIKE
John Ralston, SA.
THAT HAPPEN /
Above Average THEY oBERVE
Many thanks to the author of "Mr Av- ta/H AT THEY GET!
erage" (March 10) for so clearly setting
out where the Seventh-day Adventist
Church is today. Those churches that are
controlled primarily by "Escapists" and
"Fortresses" shouldn't be surprised when
they don't grow and the "Adventurers"
leave in desperation for another congre-
gation.
Is it possible that many who leave our
denomination by the back door have de-
cided that it's better to be a First-thy Ad-
venturer than a Seventh-day Escapist or
RECORD April 28,1990 3SYMBOLS
Uses of the Cross
by Arthur J. Ferch
The cross shape assumed more significance when it became associated
with the cross of crucifixion.
does not describe the appearance of the Christian church father of the second
F
or centuries the cross has been
widely recognised as a Christian mark Job made, but students of Scrip- and third centuries, agreed. So did sev-
symbol. But how did the cross be- ture believe that the most natural infer- eral later renditions of the Old Testa-
come a Christian symbol? And is it ac- ence one can draw from the word taw is ment.
ceptable? Perhaps it would be helpful to that it took the shape of a cross. Revelation 7:1-3 (see also Revelation
look briefly at its history. The second use of the word taw is 14:1-5) alludes to Ezekiel's vision. In de-
Early writers used signs or pictures for found in Ezekiel 9:4-6. Chapter 8 reports scribing the sealing of God's people in
words, as in Egyptian hieroglyphs. Later, that Ezekiel is taken in vision to the end time, the Revelator uses similar
symbols represented syllables, as in old Jerusalem. An accompanying being imagery in his response to the question
Babylonian cuneiform. But it was not shows the prophet apostate worship "Who is able to stand" the fearful judg-
until about 1700 BC that signs were de- forms within the temple. Ezekiel sees ments of God (Revelation 6:17).'
vised to represent different letters. elders and leaders of Judah offering in- At the beginning of the Christian era a
Simple marks formed by the intersec- cense to idols and worshipping the sun. group of Jews living around the north-
tion of two lines—such as + or Women at the temple gate weep for the western rim of the Dead Sea originated a
X—lent themselves readily to signify al- annually dying and rising Babylonian body of writings now known as the
phabetic letters. Several languages of an- deity known as Dumuzi in Babylonian Qumran (or Dead Sea) scrolls. Among
tiquity utilised cross marks in their (but called Tammuz in Hebrew). the scrolls were copies of Isaiah, which
alphabet—for instance, Canaanite, The prophet is told that God's judg- seem to have been treasured by the
Phoenician, Aramaic and Hebrew. ment will fall upon Jerusalem because of Qumran community.
One of the earliest Semitic scripts the people's apostasy. Ezekiel sees six The margins of the great Isaiah scroll
(dated c 1500 BC and found on a squat- men with slaughtering weapons draw (IQ ISa) contain several signs. The most
ting sandstone figure at the turquoise near to the city. Another person, clothed frequent is a cross in the shape of the
mines at Serabit el-Khadem in the Sinai in linen, with a writing case at his side, is Latin X. Students of this scroll have
desert) uses the + letter more often commanded by the Lord to go through noted that this cross shape is next to
than any other. The cross mark was also the city and to place a taw ("mark") passages referring particularly to the
employed in the alphabets of the Biblical upon the foreheads of those sighing and Messiah and end-time fulfilments of
languages. crying because of the abominations com- God's plan (eg Isaiah 32:1; 42:1; 44:28;
Before the Babylonian captivity of the mitted in the city. 49:7; 55:4; 56:1; 58:13, 14).
Jews in the sixth century BC, the Hebrew Those marked with the taw are God's In a work entitled De Mensuris et
of Biblical and non-Biblical writers dif- faithful people who are set apart from Ponderibus ("On Weights and
fered from that used by the Jews who re- the idolaters. The mark protects the Measures"), Epiphanius, a fourth-
turned to Palestine after 537 BC. The righteous from impending doom. century Christian writer, compiled a
last letter of the earlier alphabet was The Bible does not tell us what the Bible dictionary in which he dealt with
formed as either + or X and called taw, figuratively placed on God's people, such matters as canons and versions of
taw, the Hebrew word for "mark." the Old Testament, weights and
This character begins the Hebrew measures of the Bible, and the geography
word torah, generally translated as "law." Those marked with of Palestine. He claims that a number of
The taw became the Greek tau and the the taw are God's signs, including the cross mark, were
Latin 1. Because of its cross-like shape, used in the prophetic writings of the
the Semitic taw was considered the faithful people. Bible.
equivalent of the Greek letter chi, which In Epiphanius's work, which is avail-
for centuries was written as + or X, looked like. The word itself suggests a able in Greek and Syriac, the cross mark
the latter shape becoming predominant. cross mark, for that is how taw was rep- appears as in the Greek documents
The X forms the first letter of Christ's resented in writing. but as X in his Syriac (a language re-
name in Greek. The Greek translations of this passage lated to the Aramaic of the Old Testa-
The word taw occurs only twice in the (done by Aquila and Theodotion) leave ment) manuscripts. The latter shape is
Old Testament. Job complains, in es- us in no doubt. Both translated Ezekiel identical to those in the margins of the
sence, "Here is my taw ['sign' or `mark']! 9:4 to read that the mark of the tau, the Dead Sea Isaiah scroll.
Let the Almighty answer me!" Job 31:35 cross shape, was placed on the foreheads Epiphanius notes that the cross signs
(see KJV margin, RSV etc). This passage of God's faithful. Tertullian, a Latin stood for the Messiah, and marked pass-
4 RECORD April 28, 1990ages of messianic import. Finegan' con-
cludes that Christian scribes probably
this information surfaced after Hislop's
volume appeared.) Nevertheless, a state-
STORY
followed the earlier Jewish custom of ment on the cross mark today can no
using the cross shape to draw attention longer omit these historical details.
to passages of messianic significance. He
speculates that the Christians adopted
Further, New Testament Christian
worship sometimes adopted and adapted Funny
the symbol initially from Jewish rites practiced by other religions. For in-
Christians who had continued the Jewish
practice.
stance, Christian baptism shares
similarities with the ritual immersion of Friends
Finegan also refers to a third-century the Jews and of the Near Eastern mystery
commentary on Ezekiel by Origen, an religions. Despite the similarities to rites by Myrtle O'Hara
early-church father known most widely in other religions, the New Testament
for his allegorical interpretation of the church maintained the appropriateness rs Barnes was sick and tired of her
Scripture. Origen reports interviews he of the Christian form of baptism of new two boys fighting. No matter how
conducted with Jews on their traditional believers into the fellowship and body of much sleep they had, how well-fed they
teaching about the taw. Christ. were, how fair the game was, or how
One Jew, reflecting on Ezekiel 9:4, When Hislop links the cross shape many threats of punishment there were,
said the taw signified perfection. with the "mystic Tau of the Chaldeans they always fought.
Another claimed that taw, being the first and Egyptians" and with "the initial of "Why can't you boys play happily?"
letter of the word torah, symbolised the name of Tammuz" in ancient she'd ask them at least five times a day.
those who live according to the law. A Chaldee (if I understand him correctly), Mark and Jarrod would look at each
third, a Jewish Christian, stated that as he becomes less reliable. The language other, point a finger, and say, "But he
the form of the letter taw in the old of the ancient Babylonians was written . . ." And it would start all over again.
Hebrew script resembled the cross of the in syllables and not alphabetic signs. One day Mrs Barnes said, "Look, even
crucifixion, it predicts the mark to be Therefore the word for Tammuz, which our dog and cat put you to shame.
placed on the foreheads of Christians. in ancient Babylonian was Dumuzi, is They're natural enemies, but they be-
Thus the cross shape is a basic mark not represented by a single character. have like the best of friends."
with a long history. For some Jews and Why accord so much credence to It was true. The animals had grown up
Christians it signified protection, loyalty Hislop's discussions of history and together, and were rarely seen apart.
and salvation at the end of time. A cross linguistics when several positions he "And there are lots of other animals
mark also designated Scriptural passages takes on the book of Revelation are con- that pair up even though they aren't the
of messianic import—at least among trary to Adventist interpretations as ex- same." Mrs Barnes could see the boys
some Jews, and certainly among pressed in The Great Controversy? were interested and rushed on.
Christians. The cross shape assumed While Hislop's remarks about the ven- "I know of a baby monkey at the zoo
even more significance among Christians eration of the cross are appropriate, his that lived in the fur on a koala's back.
when it became associated with the cross work The Two Babylons is hardly a norm And another monkey used to have reg-
of crucifixion. for Seventh-day Adventist faith, in- ular rides on the back of a tiger.
Today cross shapes distinguish terpretation or practice. In understand- "Once, I even heard about a cat who
Christian places of worship from those of ing the cross, as in all areas, the church made friends with a rat!"
other religions. As a sign of Christianity, and its members have a responsibility to Mark burst in with an unusual animal
rather than as a superstitious charm, the review their opinions, to hold fast to story that he'd heard. "I once read about
cross is displayed by certain Adventist what is good, and to reject that which a bulldog that adopted a baby kangaroo
churches around the world. fails to square with truth and saps it of vi- and fed it. And I also heard about a
However, some members object to its
display, an objection often traced to
tality. ra puma and a dog that were the best of
friends."
References:
statements made by Alexander Hislop in I. "What is the seal of the living God, which is "Perhaps one of the strangest stories,"
his work The Two Babylon.; Hislop de- placed in the foreheads of His people? It is a mark said Mrs Barnes, "was about an elephant
nounces the superstitious worship ac- which angels, but not human eyes, can read; for the and a kitten. The kitten had run up the
destroying angel must see this mark of redemption.
corded the cross, and traces the origin of The intelligent mind has seen the sign of the cross
elephant's leg and onto its head. When
its shape to paganism. of Calvary in the Lord's adopted sons and daugh- the elephant tried to lift it off with its
Hislop's concern is about the abuse of ters. The sin of the transgression of the law of God trunk, the kitten scratched in fright. The
the cross as a charm to which all kinds of is taken away. They have on the wedding garment, elephant just seemed amused, and put
and are obedient and faithful to all God's
values are attributed. Adventists would commands."—Ellen G. White, in The Seventh-day
the kitten back on its head."
agree that homage to the cross, be it of Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol 7 (1957 edition), The boys burst out laughing as they
wood, metal or any other material, is as page 968. imagined what this combination would
misguided as worship of any other ob- 2. J. Finegan, "Crosses in the Dead Sea Scrolls," look like. It was some minutes before
ject. Biblical Archaeology Review, 5/6 (1979): 41-49. I they actually got back to their game. But
am largely indebted to this article.
Hislop also correctly finds uses of the 3. A. Hislop, The Two Babylons, Loizeaux
when they did, their disagreements no
cross shape in religions preceding Brothers, New York, 1945. longer seemed so important.
Christianity. Unfortunately, much of the
data detailed above is absent from
Hislop's discussion of the cross. (In his Arthur J. Ferch is field secretary for the South Pacific Myrtle O'Hara writes from Cooranbong, New South
Division. Wales.
defence, it should be said that much of
RECORD April 28, 1990 5CHURCH
Why Youth Stay SDA
by Allen Sonter
When both parents are good Adventist models the likelihood is that
their children will follow.
y mother will come here and children to grow up are a negative influ- When both parents are good
M preach and criticise me. . . .
Like, yesterday she rang up,
and she was preaching on about me
ence.
The mother of a child who has grown
up to be a conservative Adventist2 tends
Adventist models, the likelihood is that
their children will follow. Any lack of
commitment to the church, any hypoc-
doing this. . . . She still can't leave me to be loving and supportive. She's per- risy, fanaticism or inconsistency is a
alone. I'm 30 next year, and I'm still get- ceived to be fair and just. She allows her negative influence.
ting lectures all the time about what I children to question her instructions Attending a state school can help
should be doing. This is what I think has without thinking them rebellious, and Seventh-day Adventist young people de-
turned me off the church." she makes Adventism attractive. velop the ability to stand up for their be-
While some young people react to The willingness of either parent to sit liefs. Having had to think their beliefs
home and parents as just described, the down and talk things over, to reason and through, they often hold them more
home is the most important factor in discuss problems and issues with the strongly. It also provides the opportunity
whether or not children grow up main- child, is important. The parent who as- for them to learn to associate with and
taining links to the Seventh-day sumes the role of spiritual leader in the befriend those outside the church.
Adventist Church. home (and sometimes the church) is On the other hand, Seventh-day
"My father was the spiritual leader in seen as having a stronger positive influ- Adventists at state schools often experi-
our home. He was the one who always ence. Quick-tempered, authoritarian, ence harassment (usually mild) because
called family worship together, and that dominating, critical or legalistic parents they're seen as different from others.
was really important." are a negative factor in their children's at- This perception of difference, as well as
Four-hundred-and-ninety-one people titudes toward the church. their distinctive (seen by some as restric-
raised in Seventh-day Adventist homes Children are more likely to become tive) lifestyle, tends to make them feel
responded to a questionnaire I sent out conservative Adventists if their fathers left out of the school's social life.
entitled "A Study of Early Influences on are perceived to strongly believe Friends made at state schools can
Religion in Later Life." I also inter- Adventist doctrines. They'll turn away if exert an influence to lead Adventist
viewed 47 of the respondents. The ques- the father has a weak personal relation- young people away from church "stan-
tionnaire and interviews formed the ship with Christ, lack of concern about dards," perhaps encouraging experimen-
basis of my doctoral thesis, published in people with problems, and a poor knowl- tation with drugs or to attend social gath-
August 1989.' edge of the Bible and Adventist teach- erings and entertainment disapproved by
Each of the 491 were aged between 10 ings. the church.
and 15 in 1972 and lived in a Seventh- Good Adventist fathers have a strong, Attendance at Seventh-day Adventist
day Adventist home during that year. positive influence on their children. If schools removed the more open temp-
(An Adventist home was defined, for this the father isn't an Adventist, the children tations and is seen as a more comfortable
exercise, as having at least one Adventist look to their mother as their religious option. In an Adventist school there's no
parent). The findings are significant. model. Several of those interviewed were need to explain differences in lifestyle
Fathers who restrict the independence in this situation. In most cases the chil- and beliefs. Young people become inte-
of their children, and insist on conform- dren had followed the mother and be- grated into the social life of the
ity to the father's ideas on religion, lose come Adventists. The mother's personal school.
out. Their children are likely to be non- religious experience and her care and Many who attend an Adventist school
Adventist Christians or, more frequently, concern exert a greater influence. believe that their school is better than
have no religious leanings at all. The more the children perceive the others and their teachers are more caring
Close and supportive contact between mother to believe Adventist doctrines, to and personally concerned. Bible lessons
father and child leads to a greater likeli- have a strong relationship with Christ, are generally seen as a positive factor.
hood of the child accepting the religion and to gain joy and happiness from her In Adventist schools it's felt that
of the father. religion, the more likely that her chil- young people don't need to have stan-
Mothers who try to "cram religion dren will accept her as a model and be- dards of their own. They simply do what
down their children's throats" are even come conservative Adventists. everyone else was doing. This makes
more likely to see them turn away from Mothers have an important role in peer pressure harder to resist in the
the Seventh-day Adventist Church and modelling values. Their influence is Adventist schools—it's harder to be dif-
Christianity. Mothers who are seen as in- often greater as they usually have greater ferent when one is supposed to be the
terfering and unwilling to allow their contact with their children. same.
6 RECORD April 28, 1990Some of those responding to the ques- volved because they were concerned The implications of this study are
tionnaire expressed concern that those about the spiritual welfare of their chil- threefold. First, good parent models and
attending Adventist schools are kept in a dren. Several gave social satisfaction as a a style of parenting behaviour that en-
social "cocoon" and didn't learn to relate reason for being Adventists. courages teenagers to exercise respon-
to people who aren't Adventists. Never- A few said that personal satisfaction sible independence within a supportive
theless, those interviewed wanted their with their religion and it's lifestyle was home environment is important. This,
children to attend an Adventist school their reason for remaining an Adventist. with Adventism presented as an attract-
because they believe it gives a better A small number of cases reported a par- ive way of life, is likely to produce posi-
moral and religious foundation. ticular incident—for instance, having tive results.
When young people think the church survived an accident—as the major Second, teenagers need encourage-
members are loving and kind, friendly reason for being a church member. ment and involvement in the life of the
and genuine in their Christianity; when Those who were no longer members church. More needs to be done to make
church sermons are seen to be relevant; gave lack of belief, peer influences, fam- churches attractive to those in the later
when they feel wanted and needed in the ily situations, marrying out of the teen years. The culture of some churches
church; and when they perceive little church, legalism and pharisaism in the needs to be refocused on youth rather
tension caused by theological argu- church, and lack of interest in the re- than old age, if youth are to find it at-
ments, they tend to become conservative ligion and lifestyle of Adventists as tractive.
Seventh-day Adventists. When the re- reasons for leaving. Two gave particular Older members should learn to differ-
verse is true they tend to leave the incidents as their reason for leaving. entiate between superficial culture
church. Half of those who had left the church changes and basic Christian values, and
A warm and supportive "family" at- and returned gave social reasons for their be willing to change the former to cater
mosphere encourages young people to return (wanting to take children to for youth while maintaining the latter.
maintain connection with the church. church, parental influence, a boy be- It's important for church members, in-
Involvement in the activities of the coming friendly with an Adventist girl). cluding youth, to learn to relate to those
church fosters continued partic- The others returned through convictions who are leaving, or have left. A little care
ipation—this takes enthusiastic and about life priorities. and concern at a critical period could en-
understanding leadership. No one returned to the church be- courage continuing or renewed partici-
The Pathfinder Club provides a valu- cause of caring or loving Christians in pation by those who at present see no
able avenue for meaningful activity and the church. The evidence is strong that reason to continue in the church.
involvement for the 10-15 age group. Adventists find it difficult to relate to a Third, the education system hasn't
But many older teenagers feel that young person who is leaving, or has left, produced the results that those support-
there's little to keep them involved in the the church. ing it would like to see. Teacher models
life of the church. Developing relation- need attention, as do peer influences in
ships with other young people is a major some situations.
concern of teenage youth. If that need One serious factor is the "cocoon" ef-
isn't met in the church, some will leave fect that Adventist schools produce.
and seek to fill the need elsewhere. There's no easy solution, but perhaps
Critical, negative attitudes toward non-Adventist Christians in the com-
youth by older church members—as munity could be encouraged to send
well as perceived hypocrisy and their children to Adventist schools so
inconsistency—discourage participation that the Adventist children could learn
in the church. Emphasis on external be- to relate socially with those who aren't in
haviour (the do's and don'ts) and a legal- the church. r/3
istic approach by older members toward
religion turn youth away. 1. Allen Sonter, The Relationship Between SDA
Cliques and exclusive groups among Religiosity and Selected Social Variables, University
Adventist youth was frequently men- of New England, 1989.
tioned as a cause for leaving the church. 2. A "conservative Adventist" here means a bap-
tised Adventist who believes the traditional
These groups interfere with the develop- Adventist doctrines and follows a conservative
ment of needed relationships. The peer Adventist lifestyle. This person has conservative
group has a strong influence. moral and social attitudes and a relatively strong
The Seventh-day Adventist Church personal religious experience. He or she is highly
was seen by interviewees—church mem- involved in the church, expresses above-average
levels of social concern, and rates his or her re-
bers and non-members—as tending to ligious knowledge as above average.
be a middle-class social organisation. It A warm and support-
seemed more noticeable in some ive "family" atmos-
churches than in others. Allen Sonter is academic dean at Pacific Adventist
When asked why they had remained phere encourages College (Private Mail Bag, Boroko, NCD, Papua
New Guinea). This article was adapted from a more
in the church, some stated their belief in young people to main- comprehensive presentation entitled "A Summary of
Adventist teachings as a major reason. the Study The Relationship Between SDA
"It's the truth," said some. Others indi- tain connection with Religiosity and Selected Factors in the Social En-
cated that their parents were the major the church. vironment.'" Those wishing more detail about the re
sults of his study may contact him directly.
influence. Several said they were in-
RECORD April 28, 1990 7FLASHPOINT
Carter Crusades Hastings Harvest
Australian evangelist John The attendance of non-
Carter commenced a cru- Adventists at an evangelistic
sade in Los Angeles, United series in Hastings, New Zea-
States, on the last weekend land, is growing rather than
of March. A total of 16,000 declining. Thirty-three
people attended the four people came the first night,
sessions in the Shrine 39 to the second session
Theater—famous as the and 44 on the fourth night!
venue for Hollywood Acad- Church pastor Mark
emy Award presentations. Borresen and evangelist
Meetings will continue Rein Muhlberg are
every night for three weeks. delighted—and so are the
From January 26, 1991, church members who are
Pastor Carter will conduct a supporting the program.
three-week series in
Capetown, South Africa. Ordination Ruling
Volunteers who would like The Uniting Church in
to be associated with this Sydney has ruled that the
effort are invited to contact equality of men and women
the Secretary, Carter Report, in all forms of ministry—
PO Box 156, Warburton Vic Catholic Students Visit Ingham Church particularly the ordained
3799. More than 40 students from St Teresa's College, ministry—is fundamental to
Abergowrie, visited the Ingham Seventh-day Adventist the faith that the church
Liverpool Mission church, Queensland, on March 13. The visit by the Year embraces, and therefore isn't
Pastor George Metcalfe 11 class was part of a study of religion in Australia. The a matter on which the
will commence an evangel- students also visited five other churches in Ingham. North- church can allow freedom
istic series in Liverpool, ern Australian Conference Communication director Leigh of conscience. The National
New South Wales, early in Rice spoke on the history and beliefs of the Seventh-day Assembly standing com-
May. He would welcome Adventist Church. Following a question time, the accom- mittee made the ruling on
names of people living in panying teacher, John Cowley (right), commented that "the March 17 and 18.
the area who could be sent students asked more questions here than at any other
invitations. Phone (02) 634 church." Ingham church member Fay Grossi (left), who Largest Church
3247 or send to PO Box hosted the visit, presented the school with copies of With the baptism of four
457, Castle Hill, NSW 2154. Seventh-day Adventists Believe . .. and Seventh-day young people on March 10,
Adventists in the South Pacific 1885-1985. In addition, and recent transfers to the
Harvest Climax each student received a copy of Steps to Christ, and were area, the Springwood church
The last big event of Har- told it was the most famous Adventist book ever printed. now has more members
vest 90 is a worldwide vic- Three Seventh-day Adventist students from Papua New than any other Adventist
tory baptism planned for Guinea attend the Catholic boarding college as part of a church in the South
May 26. Harvest 90's goal is government-sponsored program. Queensland conference. Pas-
to baptise 100,000 converts. tor Peter Hilton baptised
"God has blessed Harvest Vegetarianism, plus inter- Loveless has just accepted a Catherine Shields. She was
90 with abundant results," view with Dr Rod Ellison call to return to Loma six months old when her
says coordinator Carlos on Training Ground for Linda University church missionary father, Lawrence,
Aeschlimann. Violence; May 27: Child (California) as senior pastor was killed in a plane crash
Abuse, plus interview with of the 6,000 member con- at Goroka, Papua New
Focus on Focus Dr William Loveless on gregation. "One of the Guinea. Pastor Peter
Focus on Living radio Procrastination. denomination's senior Cousins baptised three other
broadcasts for next month administrators, Dr Loveless young people from Advent-
include: May 6: Avondale Visitor is an engaging speaker," ist backgrounds: Genevieve
Antibiotics—What You Dr William Loveless will says college spokesperson O'Brien, Evelyn Toma and
Should Know, plus inter- be guest speaker for the Lyn Bartlett. "We invite Andrew Stidolph.
view with Dr Charles 1990 Week of Prayer at parents, friends and mem-
Thomas on Lifestyle and Avondale College from May bers throughout the South Project Delayed
Health; May 13: Our Boil- 6 to 12. After 12 years as Pacific Division to pray for The delivery of the Ellen
ing Points, plus interview president of Columbia students, staff and adminis- G. White CD-ROM, placing
with Dr Warren Millist on Union College (Takoma trators during this important all published writings of
AIDS Education; May 20: Park, Maryland, USA), Dr week." Ellen White on a single
8 RECORD April 28, 1990computer searchable com- had been at Betikama a two-unit web press for in the Soviet Union, and a
pact disc (Flashpoint Adventist High School for printing Bibles. Bibles are in landmark for the world
November 19, 1988) has 17 years. The Aore church high demand in the Soviet SDA Church."
been delayed. The test disc has completed extensions to Union. The United Bible
revealed problems that will accommodate the burgeon- Society has guaranteed to Praying Pat
take a further three months ing school population. The buy 1 million Russian Wollongong City soccer
to iron out. For further possibility of a new worship Bibles per year from the team striker, Patrick
details about this project complex is being discussed. new publishing house. Brodnik, recently made
contact Mrs Eleanor Scale, A fly'n'build team, lead by Equipment to be added headlines in Sydney's Daily
EGW/SDA Research Ron Clarke, is due at Aore later will print children's Telegraph—"Praying Pat
Centre, Avondale College, in July. books, Sabbath school Has Six-Goal Sunday." The
PO Box 19, Cooranbong quarterlies and books by item referred to Pat's record
NSW 2265. USSR Press Ellen White. Staffing for the score of six goals in City's
On March 5 the first of new plant, expected to 7-0 win over Adelaide
Insight Visitor five tractor trailers laden employ 20 initially, will Hellas at Brandon Park—
Christopher Blake, editor with press equipment left come from within the and the fact that he doesn't
of Insight magazine in Sweden for Zaokski, where 36,000-strong Soviet play on Saturday. Two other
North America, has been an Adventist publishing Adventist community. newspapers also gave promi-
invited to be speaker for a house will be located adjac- Funding for the project nence to the fact that Pat
youth outreach program at ent to the SDA Soviet Sem- comes from two sources—a Brodnik is a Seventh-day
Cooranbong from August inary. This follows receipt of private donation of $1 mil- Adventist who doesn't play
31 to September 9. official permission to estab- lion from Garwin McNeilus sport or train from sunset
lish a production publishing and family, and a further $1 Friday to sunset Saturday.
Caribbean Soy house in the Soviet Union. million from the General
Australian Sydney Cole, This is thought to be the Conference. Announcing Fly'n'Builds
who is managing director of first religious publishing the development, assistant Two churches in Fiji will
the Inter-American Division house built in the Soviet to the General Conference benefit from Victorian vol-
Health Food Company Union since 1917, and the president for Soviet Affairs unteers during June. A
(IAHFC), reports exper- first publishing house Harold F. Otis, Jr., said: team headed by
imental production of Long wholly owned by a religious "This has happened only Nunawading pastor Tony
Life—the Caribbean name body. Most of the equip- because of God's provi- Campbell will build the
for the soy-based milk-like ment purchased in Sweden dence. It is a momentous Labasa church and run an
beverage So Good. Long at close-out prices is for development for our church evangelistic campaign at
Life will soon be marketed night. A youth group will
throughout the Caribbean erect the Navua church,
by IAHFC's Trinidad which is being funded by a
branch, says Dr Cole. church member in Mel-
bourne.
Pitcairn News
Mrs Jennifer Ferret and Homecoming '90
her daughter, Ashley, both Avondale College's
injured in falls on Pitcairn Homecoming for 1990 will
Island on February 2, have be September 14-16. "This
been released from hospital year marks the 10th anni-
in Tahiti. Husband Rick, versary of such weekends,"
who is pastor on Pitcairn, says Homecoming chair-
will be ordained to gospel person Lyn Bartlett. "Dr
ministry during furlough in James Cox inaugurated the
Australia at the end of the plan when he was principal
year. at Avondale." Classes to be
honoured this year include
Aore News 1920, 1930, 1940, 1950,
Aore Adventist High 1960, 1965, 1970 and
School principal Titus Rore Officials Assess Losses From Cyclone Ofa 1980.
is making history. He is the Cyclone Ofa earlier this year brought devastation to
first national to hold the Samoa, and left the family who lived in this home—and Most Flashpoint items from
position since Aore, which 2000 others—with housing problems. Risk Management outside the South Pacific
is situated near Santo in Service claims supervisor Kelvyn Carr, and Adventist Division are provided cour-
Vanuatu, was commenced Development and Relief Agency officer for the Central tesy of the Adventist Review,
as the C. H. Parker Mission- Pacific Union Mission Elwyn Ferris, recently visited the and have been sent to the
ary College in 1927. The area and assessed damages and opportunities for organising RECORD via facsimile
Rores come from the repairs. Mr Ferris, a Sydney businessman, will also coordi- transceiver for immediate
Solomon Islands, where he nate fly'n'build teams within the mission. release.
RECORD April 28, 1990 9NEWS
Love Yields Service, Expat Says
im sitting in my office, but my eyes are call him. He'd been to university and has I think of others who've given them-
1 staring beyond the view from the win- all the degrees necessary to provide a selves to help those less fortunate. In the
dows. They see my friend Harold. He comfortable lifestyle. He used to work past two years, three major hurricanes—
lives in the Caribbean. And his life has for the government, in a well-paid job in Gilbert, Joanna and Hugo—have devas-
been one of service to the poor of this his speciality of agriculture. tated areas where I work.
world. But Roberto became aware of those My fellow countryman, Phil
I see Harold and a few friends going who live in the backblocks of his Williams, and his wife, Anita, have re-
into a ghetto in the capital. Not even country—in the "boondocks," as they cently come to help rebuild houses on an
police, firemen or ambulance services say. Subsistence farmers, they're called. island where 95 per cent of the homes
will go in there. The people are angry Roberto left his easy government job and were destroyed by Hurricane Joanna. As
and tense. Life hasn't been kind to them. went with his family to live in the interior a volunteer, Phil will receive only an al-
They've had a rough deal. Their houses hills, almost beyond civilisation. lowance to cover his food costs while he
are old and overcrowded. Ten or 12 In the town where they settled they replaces 150 homes. Sacrifice? Yes! But
people are jammed into a small apart- had electricity for only a few hours each Phil counts it a privilege.
ment meant to accommodate only two day. And water for even less time. Two thousand Adventist Medical
or three. They faced prejudice. Roberto, with Corps cadets in Puerto Rico worked day
Once, they had running water. Now his talk about new and better ways of and night—almost until they dropped—
the taps are dry. No one would repair the doing things, was seen as an outsider. It to help the destitute after Hurricane
broken pipes. took more than a year before Roberto Hugo.
Few of the residents have work. even felt safe living in that little town. Others helped rebuild nearly 2,000
Stealing and begging has become a way But for seven years he has stayed there. houses in Jamaica after Hurricane Gil-
of life. Young people have formed into He has shown several thousand families bert. And governments and individuals,
gangs and the strong exploit the weak. how to grow better corn. Now they have right around the world, gave money to
There are no medical services and no enough to eat and some to sell. And he provide materials.
schooling. Sanitation hardly exists— has taught them to grow vegetables. Why do they do it? Because of love.
most of the toilets just don't work. Their health has improved. Whether it means time, talents or
Such a situation was too much for They've learned how to build toilets money, they give it in love. And the best
Harold. With half a dozen friends he and rubbish pits, minimising disease. thing about all these people is that they
began to help the people. Most of it was Mothers now know what to do when love to give.
spare-time work, and it took hundreds of their babies get diarrhoea.
hours just to begin to be accepted by the I could go on—and on. It has taken By Dr Sidney Cole, an Australian who has served as
ghetto people. Besides, it was risky busi- seven years for Roberto and his friends to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency direc-
ness. Life is cheap in a ghetto, and make the difference. And the motivation tor for Inter-America for the past five years. A doctor
of chemistry, he is also director of the International
strangers are seldom welcomed. for his service has been one simple Health Food Association for Inter-America.
Harold and his friends started with a thing—love.
small clinic to help those with newborn
babies. Then they added a centre provid-
ing immunisation and classes for
mothers. Then they found materials to
repair the plumbing.
Harold and his friends taught the
people how to get running water back
into their homes. Then they showed
them how to cultivate their handkerchief-
size plots of land and create small
gardens.
For more than six years Harold and his
friends kept at it. When I visited there
about a year ago, I could scarcely believe
the difference. Harold and his friends
had achieved a near-miracle. But the .
greatest joy had come into their own •
lives—their faces shone with the
pleasure they'd received in giving of
ADRA has responded not only to the needs caused by cyclones in the Americas, but has helped
themselves. closer to home. Metre-deep coral sand whipped up by Cyclone Ofa covered the lawn of this SDA-
I have another friend—Roberto, I'll owned building in Western Samoa. That nation is still attempting to cope with the damage.
10 RECORD April 28, 1990to want to stay in this world. When the funeral. They asked if my truck could
ADRA's Challenge they're promised a better life in the fu- be used to convey the body to the
Disasters are common in ture, they're excited and can't wait to tell church.
Inter-America. During the past others about it. Anita was appointed to drive. She
five years ADRA has built 130 Our ministers here receive the equiv- went to the house, picked up the casket
homes, a community centre, a alent of $US42 per month. But they are and drove with it and the parents to the
school and church in Lerida happy to be serving the church. I spent a church, and then to the cemetery. It was
(following volcanic eruptions in day with one of them in Managua, and a highly emotional experience. The
Colombia.) ADRA has built 50 he related some of his experiences. He mother was particularly distraught.
homes in Mexico (following cares for 37 groups, some of which have Everyone seemed to be leaving her to
earthquakes). ADRA has 150 members. The pastor rotates herself. Anita tried to offer comfort, but
distributed nearly $US5 million between groups, sometimes walking for the mother collapsed at her feet. As a re-
of goods and materials during seven or eight hours between congre- sult of all this, the pastor expects to
Hurricanes Gilbert, Joanna and gations. He baptised 382 people last rebaptise the parents soon.
Hugo. ADRA continues to year. I hope you receive this letter within
distribute food to 400 schools When I asked him if there was any- the next couple of months.
and 50 orphanages in Haiti. thing I could provide that would make Kind regards to our friends,
ADRA is improving water his work easier, the only thing he could Phil and Anita Williams.
supplies and sanitation, and think of was a pair of sandshoes—he
developing community projects found his boots hot to walk in! His only
in the Dominican Republic, resource material is his Bible. Leader Awards
Honduras, the Caribbean and I preached in the central church in
Central America. In Colombia Managua at an 8.30 am service and Starry Crown
and Nicaragua, ADRA is again at 11 am. Sabbath school was held
building two large vocational in between. Both services were well at- to Avondale
colleges. The Adventist tended, with about 800 members.
Development and Relief Agency Apart from the destruction caused by
gratefully acknowledges the the hurricane 18 months ago, Corn
support of individual donors and Island (off the eastern coast) is a beauti-
government agencies. ful tropical island. The people appear
happier, even though many are living in
appalling houses built of scrap materials
gathered from the debris of their pre-
vious homes. It will be exciting to pro-
Aussies Tell of vide at least some of them with new little
houses!
Nicaraguan Work I'm flat-out finishing one of the new 8
houses for us to live in. Tomorrow I'll
put on the galvanised iron roof. Then, F
W e've finally arrived on Corn Island
(Nicaragua) after weeks of delays.
We've learned to accept that here
when the windows and doors are fitted, <
we'll move in. The rest will be done as I i
have a chance. 0.
nothing happens as planned—for ex-
ample, flights are rescheduled or even Water is a bit of a problem. Each Pastor Wilfred Bili credits Avondale College
cancelled without notice. house has its own well, and most people with most of the church's Pacific converts.
To us there appears an air of simply draw it up in a bucket as required.
hopelessness everywhere. The people We hope to manage a little more con- f our church institutions were to receive
look discouraged, with no anticipation venience with a pump and a small tank I stars in their crowns, then Avondale
of a better future. We found Managua high enough to allow running water for a would have the most!" stated Pastor
depressing. The city centre, demolished shower! Wilfred Bili, secretary of the Western Pa-
by an earthquake in 1972, has never Vegetables are expensive and the cific Union Mission, in his mission-news
been cleaned up. It has been left as a supply unreliable. So Anita hopes to presentation at the Waitara church (Syd-
monument to the 10,000 who died in the start a garden. We wonder why people ney, NSW) on February 24.
quake. don't grow more since the soil is good "I believe that Avondale College
There are no garbage collections. and there's plenty of water. Perhaps ex- graduates are responsible for 75 per cent
What little refuse the people have is perience will reveal the reason. Also, of the church membership in the South
dumped on the nearest vacant lot. Then seeds aren't available in the shops. Pacific Division," he continued.
it's immediately scavenged. Eventually Recently a 15-month-old boy died of "In my ministry as a teacher, evangel-
someone sets fire to what's left. pneumonia. As the parents were former ist and administrator for the church in
Ever-present soldiers stand on all the Seventh-day Adventists, our pastor was the Solomon Islands, I've been
main roads, stopping cars at random. asked to take the funeral service. There's impressed by the dedication of Avondale
It's not difficult to understand why our no undertaker on the island, so all the College graduates. They bring with them
work is so successful in these areas. preparation is done at the home of the a sense of tireless commitment to the
There's little to encourage these people deceased. The body remains there until work of God."
RECORD April 28, 1990 11Although Pastor Bili's comments were Andrews, D. E. Bain, R. L. Coombe, B.
unsolicited, representatives of the New K. Craig, A. D. C. Currie, J. T. Knopper,
South Wales Chapter of the Avondale J. L. Lansdown, A. B. Gane, P. R. Jack,
College Foundation say they were par- G. A. Lee, R. B. Roberts, G. E. Youlden,
ticularly helpful—as the foundation was J. N. Coffin, A. L. Kabu, T. Rore, H. G.
seeking to inform the Waitara church Harker, D. B. Hills, A. A. Godfrey, J. R.
members of its work. Lee, C. M. Winch; Drs B. W. Ball, G. E
In February each year the national Clifford, H. E. Clifford, A. J. Ferch, G.
executive of the foundation meets to for- Madigan; Messrs E. W. Grosser, G. A.
mulate aims and objectives for the forth- Laxton, R. A. Spoor, R. B. Jackson, R.
coming year. Over the past decade the E. Smith, B. E Joe, T. Christian, T. Lam-
foundation has contributed benefits bert, M. E. Mitchell; Mesdames E. P.
totalling $2 million to the college. Gen- Motto Unveiled, McMurtry, J. Jones, M. N. Reid, E.
erally, these have been of a physical Scale.
nature—six married-student units, a SPD Delegates Delegates appointed by the Papua
PABX telephone system, library control New Guinea Union Mission are: Pastors
system, computer terminals, and a col- Chosen for GC Thomas Davai, Wilson Stephen; Messrs
lege bus. Roy Bauelua, Samson Kuku, Vele Pala;
Shall Behold Him" has been
In 1988 the foundation introduced a
Student Bursary Scheme. This scheme is
an endeavour to prevent the loss (due to
W chosen as the motto for this year's
General Conference Session—the 55th
Miss Nialel Polaiu.
Delegates appointed by the Western
Pacific Union Mission are: Pastors
financial difficulties) to the college and since Seventh-day Adventists were or- Manasseh Joseph, William Patovaki,
denominational employment of many ganised as a denomination in 1863. Cur- Tommy Toata.
capable business and theology students. rently held every five years, the session is Delegates appointed by the Central
Prior to 1988 there was an alarming re- the highlight of church committee func- Pacific Union Mission are: Pastor Paora
duction in the number of students enrol- tions. Teakura; Messrs Apisae Mahe, Isara
ling in theology. Since the introduction According to the General Conference Toeaso Tago.
of the Student Bursary Scheme this trend Communication Department, some Delegates appointed by the Trans-
has been reversed. 2,700 delegates representing 190 Australian Union Conference are: Pas-
To generate sufficient funds for the countries will meet in Indianapolis, Indi- tors R. H. Baird, J. H. Gate, D. W. Croft,
bursaries, the foundation has accepted ana (USA), from July 5 to 14. Another L. J. Evans; Mr R. A. Reid; Mrs A.
the challenge to raise $1 million. The 500 will be invited guests without voting Sharp.
annual income from this fund would be privileges. Up to 40,000 church mem- Delegates appointed by the Trans-
allocated solely for student bursaries. It bers are expected to attend on week- Tasman Union Conference are: Pastors
is anticipated that by 1991 there will be ends. B. C. Campbell, A. R. Craig, R. W.
more than 30 graduates working The purpose of this worldwide Townend, J. M. Watson, C. D. Butcher;
throughout the South Pacific Division Adventist business session is to elect Mr J. G. Hammond; Miss Rosalie
who have been recipients of Student Bur- world leaders for the next five years, or- MacFarlane; Mrs Rhelmae Hebbard.
sary Scheme assistance. ganise new territories, hear reports of ac- Plans are under way to prepare two
Anyone interested in becoming a complishments, plan witnessing out- special editions of the RECORD to
member of the Avondale College Foun- reaches, review practices and policies, bring highlights from the session to
dation, or in contributing to the Student reaffirm spiritual values, approve a glo- members living in the South Pacific Div-
Bursary Scheme, should contact Pastor bal strategy, and enjoy fellowship with ision.
John Banks on (02) 411 7622. the world family of the church. Prior to the session, a World Ministers
It is expected that the session del- Council will be held from July 1 to 4.
By Ken Long, a Sydney solicitor, who is an officer of egates will approve the organisation of Church leaders have appealed to
the Avondale College Foundation. the Soviet Union as the church's 1 1 th Adventists worldwide to offer special
world division. And Adventist leaders prayers for God's guidance on the
from the USSR are expected to report on coming meetings.
May Signs church growth, the establishment of a
theological seminary, and plans for pub-
Looking Good lishing religious information in Russia.
Adventist
Sixty-eight regular delegates, includ-
Looking at issues: How to
cope when your partner
ing two (Pastor L. L. Butler and Mr E.
Long) who have been appointed by the
Health Week
has an affair. General Conference, will represent the May 12-19
Looking at doctrine: A day South Pacific Division. A further 30
most want to forget—the members, attending the General Confer-
ence at their own expense, have been
Temperance
Sabbath.
Looking at health: He who
given delegate status.
Delegates appointed by the South Pa-
offering
laughs lasts. cific Division committee are: Pastors W. May 19
R. L. Scragg, A. H. Tolhurst, W T.
12 RECORD April 28, 1990You can also read
