A historic Seminar of the Risk management was held in Hotel Hydro Majestic at Penang, Malayasia from Feb. 8-12. Delegates from four Divisions (NSD, SUD, SAD and SPD) attended these meetings. From Southern Asia 22 delegates were present. Spiritual guidelines were given through the devotionals. Practical usefulness of the risk management in the Adventist organization was presented by various eminent presenters on the topic such as: Roaring Tigers in the Risk management; The Ministry of Risk Management: Doesn’t God provide, Life safety issues; Vision and mission of health care etc. They were enriched by many information regarding the function of the risk management in the Adventist organization. Feb 12 the meetings were concluded and delegates departed to their home countries. Penang Adventist Hospital had given full support for this esteemed program.

--T. P. Kurian

Seven city pastors representing 7 Unions in SUD attended the “Pastors in Conversation” program conducted by the Hope channel in Marwah Studio, near New Delhi the capital of India, on February 24. Pastor R John the SUD president welcomed Elder Jan Paulson, the G C President and introduced the pastors. The Pastors put forth different questions on various issues that they encounter at work such as: Evangelism in this radical thinking world; Administration and Evangelism; Keeping the young people in the church; Job opportunity for the young people; Casteism and its impact on the church. Elder Jan Paulsen explained the issues to their satisfaction. The Pastors were happy to have a direct talk with the world leader who provided them guidance.

  Editorial

Ramani Kurian

God’s Presence With Us

We claim to be the disciples of Jesus Christ who gave Himself unreservedly for us. By offering Himself He had not only saved us from the clutches of sin, but also offered a way to eternity. It is the delight of our heavenly Father to take all of us to heaven. But it is our personal choice to accept or reject the way of salvation. We are given a great task to perform at the same time. He commissioned, “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world”. Mathew 28: 19, 20.  As we are engaged in this great mission of His, God assures His presence with us.  If we are involved in this great commission with sincerity and earnestness, there is no need of any doubt of His presence being with us. Our God is a covenant keeping God. He never fails.

When Christ gave His disciples the commission, He made full provision for the continuation of the work and took upon Himself the responsibility for its success. So long as they obeyed His word and worked in connection with Him, they could not fail. The Savior’s commission to the disciples included all the believers in Christ to the end of time- even you and me. Saving souls for the kingdom of God is not merely the work of ordained ministers alone. All to whom the heavenly inspiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who accept Jesus as their personal Savior must work for the salvation of their fellowmen. That is the reason why the church is established. All who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged to be co-workers with Christ.

“The disciples were to begin their work where they were. The hardest and most unpromising field was not to be passed by. So every one of Christ’s workers is to begin where he is. In our own families, may be souls hungry for sympathy, starving for the bread of life. There may be children to be trained for Christ. There are heathen at our very doors. Let us do faithfully the work that is nearest. Then let our efforts be extended as far as God’s hand may lead the way. The work of many may appear to be restricted by circumstances; but where ever it is, if performed with faith and diligence, it will be felt to the uttermost parts of the earth. Christ’s work when upon earth appeared to be confined  to a narrow field, but multitudes from all lands heard His message. God often uses the simplest means to accomplish the greatest results. It is His plan that every part of His work shall depend on every other part, as a wheel within a wheel, all acting in harmony. The humblest worker, moved by the Holy Spirit, will touch invisible chords, whose vibrations will ring to the ends of the earth and makes melody through eternal ages”. (Desire of Ages)

We need to approach people with the same tenderness and love that Jesus demonstrated while He was on the earth. In our own strength, it is impossible. We need to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus has promised the Holy Spirit to those who seek for Him. “If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone?  Or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? ….. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?” Luke 11: 11 &13. When the Holy Spirit takes control of our lives, we will develop a Christ like character and be able to accomplish the commission of our Savior to teach our fellow beings to observe all things whatsoever He has commanded us. He will surely bless us with His presence and the task will be completed soon. Jesus will return and take His holy people home to be in His presence forever and ever. Let us strive for that experience is my wish for every one of us. 

SPICERCOLLEGE CELEBRATES NINETY-EIGHTH GRADUATION EXERCISES - 2013        

The last week of March 2013 was very special for SpicerMemorialCollege family because it was the week when the ninety-eighth Graduation Exercises took place. The class officers elected were John Mwaniki Njue (President), BTh, from Kenya; Ramngakui Kashung  (Vice President), BMus, from Manipur;  Ryan Wilson Davy (Treasurer), BBA, from Spicer itsef; Naw Sonia (Secretary), MA in Education, from Myanmar; Jebastian Mariahdas (Pastor)-and President of Class of 2012, MA in Religion, from Tamil Nadu; and Graceton Ramarar and Sangeet Kumar (Representatives from Pune University program). Awungashi Samshokwo Vsarekan was the Class Sponsor and Glynn N Lalkaka, the Class Pianist. The Class Aim was “Shape People’s Lives for Christ”, the motto,“Sealing God’s Promises in Our Hearts”, flower, Rose, and colour, sky blue. On March 28th the College Day was celebrated during which OREODOXA 2013 was dedicated to Rathinaraj John, Spicer’s illustrious alumnus and President of Southern Asia Division, for his dedicated leadership and service to the SUD for 40 long years. The persons honoured by OREODOXA were Ian Philip Chand and Shirani de Alwis-Chand,  I R Thomas, CC Nathaniel and Margaret Nathaniel, Genu Roney Varghese,  Rathna Noah, Barun Halder, Nagaraj,  Moses Nowrangi. The Consecration Speaker on Friday was Ian Philip Chand, MA (Rel), MS(Sociology), PhD, an alumnus of Spicer and Andrews, a marriage counsellor and therapist, presently working at LomaLindaUniversity. Spicer a sort of made history by inviting for the first time a woman Baccalaureate Speaker in its 98 years’ history and this honour rightly accrues to  Shirani de Alwis-Chand, MA (Edu), EdD, an alumnus and former faculty of Spicer and Andrews, who also had a brief stint at Harvard University as a student in Language Disability department, and presently working as the Director of “Above the Bar” which promotes excellence in Education. They both spoke on the Class Aim and Motto respectively. As per their request all the participants on the stage too wore the graduation regalia during the two services. Shirani, who is a strong proponent of gender equality, must have also been delighted to see half the ministers on the stage that Sabbath were women like her, including  Chawngdinpuii Chawngthu who offered the prayer for the offerings, a task till then sealed in men’s domain. Even the Commencement Speaker the next day was a woman,  Sampada Joshi PhD, Controller of Examinations, Pune University. Truly Spicer started giving the women their due.

The commencement programme on Sunday morning started with the graduates marching into the House of Prayer followed by the faculty and the president’s party which includes the Chief Guest, Sampada Joshi,. After a brief welcome by  S Rajendra Prasad, (VPAA), class song and introduction of the chief guest, Sampada Joshi by the president, she addressed the graduates briefly exhorting them to face the changing and challenging world bravely. Then the VPAA presented 235 candidates for graduation, representing 5 major world religions, 22 countries, 18 Indian states, speaking 56 languages from the 4 different programs at Spicer: 59 candidates from Spicer Autonomous programmes (2 two-year diploma and 15 BEEd candidates in Elementary Education, 2 BMus candidates in Western Music and 40 BTh candidates); 28 candidates from Griggs University programme (18 BBA and 10 MBA); 42 candidates from Andrews University Program (19 MA in Education, one MEd, and 22 in MA in Religion); and 105 candidates from Pune Universitry Program (32 BA, 64 BCom, and 9 MA in English). The College President Justus Devadas  assisted by the Academic Dean  Roy Jemison injety, and Deans Noble Pilli (Arts), Noah A. Balraj (Business),  Rathnasamy Jeyam (Commerce), Nanibala I Paul (Education), and  Mohanaraj W Israel (Religion) who in turn assisted by the Registrar/Vice Principal of the respective programmes,  Simon Yesu (SMC Autonomous),  Shiny Prashantha (Griggs Univ),  A S Varekan (Andrews Univ) and Reginald A Chavan (Pune Univ), presented the scrolls informing the details of their certificates to the candidates as they marched on to the stage one by one as they were briefly introduced.  Then Justus Devadas, the president charged the graduates “to always remember that your identity is in eternity and your homeland is heaven. Learn to be quick to follow that flow of love God puts in your heart. What lies before you is the untrodden path, the unopened door, the mountain peak, and the broad blue heavens. I challenge you to walk that path, open the closed door, and climb the mountain heights. The sky is the limit. Be sensitive and obedient to do what God wants you to do….. Be wise to choose God’s directions and ways, and choose excellence…. God bless you, my dear graduates!” Then Ian and Shirani Chand once again greeted the graduates with a combined message after which the college song was sung, closing prayer offered by  Sam Charles, VPCD, and benediction pronounced by  Noble Prasad Pilli, Executive VP and senior church pastor. Then the graduates marched out to the church plaza with their hearts brimming with joy that is shared by family and friends as they congratulated them, greeted them with cards and bouquets and cheered them on with hugs and handshakes while the shutterbugs were busy clicking away these memories to eternity.

The climax of the graduation weekend was actually the next day, April 1, 2013, when the faculty hosted a surprise party to president Justus Devadas and family in the local Green Park Hotel for having completed successfully ten full years as President of the College, in spite of several personal and official challenges, though tributes have been paid unofficially during the earlier functions of the week too. May God continue to bless Justus Devadas as he shoulders this great responsibility as the president of this premier institution in Southern Asia Division especially as it inches towards its centennial year in 2015 with a prayer to the Almighty that by then it would be granted a private university charter by the central government, so that it can serve the world church in an enhanced capacity and prepare many souls for His kingdom! Amen!

Prof S Rajendra Prasad, VPAA, Spicer memorial College

A very Unique Annual Day Celebration in Puducottai,

It was not just another annual day, but a very special and unique too. Way back in 1988, Jayabarathan Chelliah and his wife, Florence started out in an adventure of faith and began a little school in Puducottai, Tamilnadu. This took root and God blessed their humble efforts abundantly as they worked hard with sincere dedication. It has now grown to 4 large institutions with a newly constructed church as well.  Here thousands of children are receiving Christian education and pursuing their life work too, in both the Matric and CBSE schools and the two colleges, Engineering and Nursing. Their 2 sons, Jonathan and Jaison joined when they were ready, and are now supporting them wholeheartedly with their spouses as well.  It is the combined efforts of this entire joint family which is such a blessing to the community in and around Puducottai. 

On March 6^th, 2013  was the silver jubilee and  annual day celebrations of the school. My husband and I were invited to witness this special day. So we landed at the Puducottai bus stop early Wednesday morning, and it was raining when their car picked us up and took us to their home. God who has blessed them all these years,  further approved their sincere work that He performed a marvelous miracle on that day which was an eye opener to all, that there is a God who answers prayer.

It rained all night and day on March 5 and 6.  6 p.m was the set time for the celebrations to begin. It had poured in torrents all that day right till noontime. All hopes of conducting the celebrations came to a standstill but the family continued pleading for God’s help in this impossible situation. According to the weather report, this rain was supposed to continue for 3 days, so all schools were requested to shut down. The chief guest, T. Radhakrishnan IPS, Additional Director General of Police, TN, and  S.  Balarajamanickam MA BL., the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Trichy, the guest of honor called to ask if the program was postponed, but received an affirmative reply. Many Hindu parents kept urging them to pray to God for they believed He could do wonders, that was what the little ones had told them time and time again. So earnest prayers were offered all that day. The grounds for this celebration were flooded and it continued to rain till noon. They dried the grounds but there were still little puddles of water all over the place. The sun slowly broke through the clouds and gave a little ray of hope and then it happened! The rain stopped by 3 p.m! When the entire program was over,  it rained but not too heavily, everyone got back home safely.  We all witnessed this wonderful miracle that God had performed. Every speaker on the dais thanked and praised God for His miracle working power, including the chief guest and the guest of honor. One of them said the quote “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of”.  It was a privilege and opportunity for so many non-Christians to acknowledge that the mighty God whom the organizers worshipped, was truly a wonderful mighty God who could even command the wind and rains to stop.

The program was truly unique. They had 2 stages. After the formal speeches, cultural program started with a Bharatnatayam dance by some high school girls. On the other stage they had their school band, 2 students who played the key board, one with the violin, one with the guitar and one with the drums. Kids from KG up to grade 11 sang religious songs: smaller kids, Sabbath school songs and the older ones songs from the

Adventist hymnal. They had memorized all the verses and with the music it was simply grand. Also each class had special colors and dress patterns which the faculty carefully selected and parents paid for the material including tailor charges. Alternately on the other stage they had dances from different states of India along with some very thought provoking items that touched the hearts of audience to stand in support of the efforts such as saving the unborn girl child, fighting against dowry system, rape, hurting the environment, etc., All the skits were enacted without words but children held up posters so everybody could follow what each act stood for.  I have attended many annual day programs in our schools but this was really special. Everything went so smoothly and there was co-operation by all staff, and all children in each class were also involved. And to see everything going so meticulously and on time was a rarity. We wish the school God's abundant mercies as they begin their next 25 years, so they could celebrate a golden jubilee, if time should last.

Margaret Nathaniel

Hope TV India: Revival and Reformation Meeting in Chennai

Time has come for the fulfilling of our Masters’ commission “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit:” Hope TV India, though in its infancy in Media Network, moves forward with its dedicated staff to accomplish the commission of the Lord to get ready and revive people to prepare for His coming.  Chennai is one of the fastest growing metro cities in India. With its pride in trade & export, tourist places, its magnificent buildings, nonstop traffic roads, numerous amusement parks, different types of industries providing numerous work opportunities, the city is crowded with people. But people have no time to think about God;  pleasures of city life attract  people more than God and His word.

Hope TV India conducted a Revival and Reformation Meeting for three days from January 25^th to 27^th with the hope to reach out with the message of salvation to the perishing city dwellers. The meeting had four fold objectives: 1. Hope Channel Promotion 2. Great Controversy Project  3. Revived by His Word 4. Daily Praying 7 am and 7 pm.. It is the desire of HopeTV team to encourage people to draw closer to God and to keep their hearts enlightened from the darkness of sin. The speaker of the meeting was Sharath Babu, Professor, Spicer College, Pune. Though he is blind physically, he encouraged thousands of people to have spiritual vision regarding their eternal salvation through his vibrant messages. Though visually challenged, he travelled 2000 km to

conduct this special meetings in Chennai. The sermons stirred hearts of people for he preached the soon coming of Jesus and the need for us to be holy.  It was a spiritual nurturing experience for the believers as well as for the non-believers. At the end of the meeting all the people pledged before God by raising their candles that they would read the Bible, pray to God, share the gospel to their neighbors.

Jacinth Eva, Hope TV India.

First Fruits of City Evangelism- Mumbai

For God so loved the cities that He in love made a provision for the world church to  reach out to mega cities in the world with everlasting gospel during this quinquennium.

It was my privilege to participate in such a program in Southern Asia Division – Mumbai city. From February 7 to 20, 2013 we had the opportunity to work in three centers for Telugu speaking people. On 7^th February along with me, four East Central India Union  pastors-- Alexander -NAS,  Ailababu - SAS, Bulla Das- Guntur,  T. Venkateswer Rao - SEAS arrived at West Andheri where  we have strong Telugu speaking community. (There are 250 Telugu independent pastors and other major denominational churches in Mumbai city). The evangelistic meeting was conducted on the Mudh Island at “Almeda house”.  50 to 100 people came every night, we had health talk, children’s programs and strong Bible based messages about end time. All presentations were done on power-point. Many Baptists and other independent believers acknowledge that the messages are clear and never heard messages presented so systematically. But their commitment to their own churches and other issues of social stigma kept them from joining us.

While we were having meetings in the evening from 6 to 10, day time all six of us went out into three groups and visited the people who came for the meetings, slowly contacts were established, Bible studies were given. While we were visiting different people, the local pastors were not happy, they called us and discouraged. We went in search of new people who do not have pastoral care.  By the end of 7 days we got the picture of where God was leading us.  With lots of prayer, we finally focused our work in three areas:  1. Malad-- where a strong Christian family accepted the Adventist message and they started a bible study group for those who attended our meeting. 2. Varsai-- among the fishermen community where 20 people took baptism and waiting for a place to worship and a pastor who will care for them.  3.Paschael village in Madh Island-- more educated group.  In spite of strong opposition from other denominational pastors, they look for truth as it is found in the Bible. They are now taking bible studies and soon to make decision for Jesus.  We praise God for His leading and we want to thank the leaders at Division, Union and local section who support this noble task. There are more than 20 million people living in Mumbai who need Jesus. The challenge is to reach them with the love of God and prepare them for the coming kingdom.

Measapogu Wilson, D. Min,

Department Director, SUD

The Past, the Present and the Future:

Injety Jeevarathnams Family Reunion

Nearly fifty years after their passing away, six generations of descendents of one pioneer couple, Injety Jeevarathnam and Lakshmi Kanthamma, gathered recently to celebrate their life and legacy. Nearly 120 members of their descendents, now in the seventh generation Adventists, attended a family reunion in Dindi, East Godavari District, A.P. from Dec. 20-23, 2012. What is so special about this couple that it drew so many descendents to one place to celebrate their lives? By God’s grace, all six of their children, 26 grandchildren, 65 great-grandchildren and 41 great-great-grandchildren are either workers in the church or strong lay members. On Thursday evening, Dec. 20, more than 100 family members descended and another 20 joined later on Friday in Andhra Pradesh government  resort at Dindi. We had a lively celebration of the Sabbath.  We made a bus trip to our grandparents’ ancestral property in Lakkavaram for sundown worship. We cherished old memories and had a nice time together.

The highlight of the reunion was the inauguration of a 100-seat dining hall with an attached kitchen and storage room built in memory of their grandparents at Lakkavaram on Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012. This dining hall is to serve the needs of the Lakkavaram school students who reside in hostels on the campus. The building was officially declared open after  Injety Juliamma James, wife of the late Pastor I. James and the only surviving spouse of Jeevarathnam’s children; Samuel Injety, son of late Pastor I. Subushanam; and  Roy Jemison Injety, son of late Pastor I. James, cut the ribbon. Leaders from various levels of Adventist church were present. The ceremony concluded with the serving of a sumptuous meal in the new dining hall. Pierson Tharapatla, a grandson of the Jeevarathnams, expressed well the driving force that led them to undertake this project as  he said “pride, gratitude and unity of all these 26 (grandchildren) families is revealed in the construction of this beautiful dining facility on the campus of the church. The entire group stood up in consecration, pledging to uphold the faith and standards of their grandparents in their lives. At the close of the program we all sang the song, “When we all get to heaven”  with the hope and resolve of  Injety Jeevarathnams family reunion at the second coming of Jesus, our Savior.

Pierson Prakasam Tharapatla

Youth Leadership Seminar at Jaipur

A  Youth Leadership Training Seminar was conducted at Jaipur in Madhya Bharat Section on December 14, 2012. There were 30 delegates who attended the Training Program. Elder Ravindra  Shankar Youth  Director  SUD  and  Pr  Mohan Bhatti Youth Director  NIU were  the  resource  personnel. Elder Ravindra Shankar laid emphasis on the need of Youth Ministry. He mentioned  the  History  and  the  Mission of  the  Youth and  focused  on  the Vision  of  this  Ministry. Youth is  a  very  important age  group  which  is  the powerhouse  to  hold  responsibilities in Church  and be an  instrument  of  the  Great  Commission.Pastor  Mohan  Bhatti laid  emphasis  on  the formation of  Adventist Youth  Societies  in different  Local  Churches along  with the Pathfinders  Club  and  its  various  activities. These Societies  and Clubs help in   developing  spiritual  growth  and  meet  the  Social  needs  of  the  Community. The consecration service  was taken  by Pastor Franklin Francis, Youth Director along  with Pastor Ravi Gill, President  and  Mr.  Shekhar Chand, Treasurer. The Divine Service on Sabbath was taken  by Elder  Ravindra Shankar  who  encouraged  the  Youth  to  stand  firm  for  their  faith.

A fellowship Lunch was served for the delegates and the Church Members. The  Youth  and  the  delegate s  pledged  their  services  and commitment  to the  Lord.

Savita Chand, Director Communication, Madhya Bharat Section

The Youth at Ranchi

On 16th March, 2013 the youth of METAS, Ranchi, excepting the first year ANM,GNM and B.Sc Nursing students, were divided into 4 groups. Each group had a student leader, a few lecturers, tutors, teachers, accountants and an administrator or a doctor. All the groups distributed fruits, vegetables and clothes to the inmates. Group 1 visited "Cheshire Home", a home for the disabled. It had 35 inmates from age 5-65. Group 2 visited "Guru Nanak Home for the Crippled Children". It had 60 children from age 5-20.  Group 3 visited "Little Heart Home". It sheltered 85 children from age 5-12.  Group 4 visited "Mahatma Gandhi Narayan Grover Home for the aged". It had 20 children and 26 older folk. In all the places students sang, prayed, interacted and displayed skit. There was special glow seen on the faces of the disabled and the destitute. The students and the staff made such strong bond in that short period of time that it became difficult for us to leave them and come. In fact most of our eyes got wet, while we had trouble controlling our emotions, the inmates broke into tears. Interestingly the same experience took place in all the places while the same request of, "please come again" was heard in all the four places. We were touched by this and would like to thank all the servants of God in materializing it. The finance required have been partly contributed by the church members while the major share came from the youth who earned by having food sale. My sincere appreciation, gratitude and God's blessings to the youth. The youth, with the guidance of the staff, were presenting heart touching programs from Friday sunset to Sabbath afternoon in the church. My whole hearted thanks and God's blessings to them. I was richly blessed organizing and coordinating the whole act.
Subhakar Prasad Chaplain, METAS, Ranchi

They Walked Nine Hours

There was a zonal Revival Meeting at Chokpot company (Garo Section) on September 21 - 23, 2012. On the way at one junction we picked up two girls who were going to the same meeting. As there was no transportation that day due to wrong information of a bandh, they would not reach the meeting place had we not picked them. They told us that seven others had gone to the meeting on foot taking a short cut. As we reached our destination we saw them, and we were informed that they reached there a few minutes before we arrived. The leader (the man on the picture) told me that they started at 7 AM from home and reached there at 4 PM. Other than the leader the rest are the young girls. Of them there was a girl of about 9 years of age. After the vespers, the two girls (on the picture, the students of Class 10 and 11) told me that they walked 20 kilometres to attend this meeting. Each had to carry two kilograms of rice for the mess contribution and a little bedding with them. They said that they walked even farther than this, (to Emangre and to Tolegri which took them almost the whole day) to attend such meetings. It is not that they love walking, but they walked because there is no means of other transportation. There are many places where our pastors too needed to walk long distances to conduct baptisms etc. Another group who came to attend the meeting by walking had to cross a river almost neck deep, about one hundred thirty feet wide, and children needed to be carried across the river. The leeches disturbed them all along as they traveled about five hours through the jungle path. In some places the mud was almost a knee deep. Upon enquiry, I expected 70 adults in the congregation, but their attendance was beyond one hundred. They slept on the floor. There was rain before the meeting, during the meeting and after the meeting. The meeting ended at 2 PM on Sunday and we prayed that God would escort them back home as those who came walking would never reach their destination back before 8 PM. Darkness starts here before 6 PM. “What is the urgent need that you need to leave today?” someone asked. They said that they have plenty of work to do at home.

Those who walked 9 hours asked if they could ride with us halfway to their direction, in our office sumo. They were nine and we were three. As we diverted to their short cut way, we found that the mud at the bridge had collapsed due to the heavy rain, so we had to return to the main road. If we leave them there, they would need to walk for more than 6 hours and in the dark. Without consulting anybody, I decided to take them home through the motorable road, which means riding 5 hours more, and reaching Tura at 10 PM. As we came the first 52 kilometres from Chokpot, through the roughly graveled winding road, the sumo had a few hard scratches underneath, and sometime later, a strange sound was heard as we proceeded.

As we reached another junction, parting to Tura and their village, I suggested that we drop them to their homes. It was Sunday and there was no hope of any vehicles passing that way. What happened was that within a short time we started our journey with them the girls vomited, It was not the easy ride for us. We were afraid of the intermittent strange sound under the vehicle, and it was starting to get dark. As we were nearing their village, the noise at the springs of the sumo increased, but the fault was not visible, so we went on. Reaching their village, our passengers washed the vehicle clearing the dirt and the vomit they made. They apologized for the inconvenience caused. All the while my thought was that, our inconvenience was nothing compared to the troubles our church members took to attend the meetings. I almost asked them if they would still continue attending such meetings again, particularly in rainy seasons in future. I didn’t dare, because I know they will! Would I, if I were in their place?

B. K. Momin, President, Garo Section of SDA

Hospital Tidings

Simla Sanitarium 

Bejeweling one of the seven hills that makes up the city of Shimla, Simla Sanitarium and Hospital, most commonly referred to as Sanitarium, has been one of the few oldest hospitals serving the city of Shimla and also the state of Himachal Pradesh. Simla Sanitarium and Hospital is one of the seven hospitals under the Medical Trust of SDA.

In the past one year, the hospital has had a revamp on the inside with the OPD undergoing a much needed, long forgotten renovation. Along with the renovation, most of the departments have upgraded their equipment which include a new X-ray machine, Ultrasound machine, OCT machine. The number of consultants and working staff has increased with the increasing inflow of patients. Medical and surgical specialties available include Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmology, Radiology, Anesthesiology, Dental and Physiotherapy. Other services provided include Chaplaincy, Health Education and Wellness and a Pharmacy. Renovation of the rest of the hospital is also underway.

The hospital has also been able to continue with its community service through government supported multi-specialty surgical camps in various parts of the state and also at private local cement factories. And by God’s grace, this year we are looking forward to a plastic surgery camp and a total knee replacement surgical camp at our base hospital with surgeons coming from Loma Linda University, USA and Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, USA respectively: plastic surgery camp in April and the total knee replacement surgical camp in August.

The call to be different in a dark, dying world is a challenge. The medical ministry has continued to prove its mettle through time and will continue to be one of the most effective means by which we could reach to the ends of the world. Each of us have been called to be a part of this ministry to prepare the world for the return of our Lord. Let us join hands to support one another as we prepare ourselves and others for the second coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

 Ranjit Injety, Dental Surgeon

Ottapalam Hospital

The Seventh-day Adventist College of Nursing & School of Nursing conducted the 2^nd BSc nursing lamp lighting ceremony and the 9^th GNM graduation ceremony from

January 18-20, 2013. Our Aim was “Living His Words” and motto was “Being His Hands”. We were privileged to have Richard Hart (MD, Dr. PH, President, Lomalinda University & Chairman of AHI) as our chief guest, he was accompanied by his wife, Judy Hart. The presidential address was given by Ipe Varghese (Registrar, Kerala University of Health Sciences).  An inspiring message was given by Pierson Sam David (Secretary, Medical Trust, SDA) on 18^th January. The graduation program was attended

by dignitaries like S M Khandulna, Alamgir Khan, John Christo, Vivek Gaikwad, Praveen Bob, Elvin Vedamony, Jaya Vedamony, Y Selvamony, D Chandran, Don S & Gail.S.  We thank the Almighty God for all His blessings upon our hospital that it is growing stronger and stronger daily. Pray for us that this institution will stand as a strong witness to spread the three angels’ message around through its medical missionary service.

Renjith John Jacob, Medical Director

SCHOOL News

VISAKHAPATNAM School

55^TH ANNUAL DAY CELEBRATIONS AND FELICITATION OF SRIDHAR AMBATI, PRINCIPAL 

Visakhapatnam school celebrated a grand annual day  with local politicians, scholars from university and organizational dignitaries as guests on 24^th February, 2013. On that occasion, cash awards were given to Xth  std students who achieved district top ranks in the year 2011-2012, followed by entertainment and cultural programs. Another highlight was that the principal, Ambati Sridhar was honoured for his great achievement of obtaining  PhD in Mathematics.

The dignitaries who honored the principal with momentos / shawls & flowers were,  Ganta  Srinivasa Rao, Hon’ble minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dronamraju Srinivasa Rao, MLA, South Visakha.,   Katta Rama Mohana Rao, Registrar, Andhra University.

V. Ravi Kumar, corporator, Vishaka,  Jangalayya, IRS, Vizag, Ch Victor Sam, president, ECIU, Hyd., T D. Francis, secretary, ECIU, Hyd. Shadrach, treasurer, ECIU, Hyd., T. Johnson Jacob, director, Visakha Metro.

 Nirmala, Senior English faculty.

UNION STEWARDSHIP DIRECTORS’ ADVISORY, SUD, HOSUR

February 26- 28, 2013 had been a blessed period for the stewardship directors of the unions in Sothern Asia Division. They were privileged to have valuable instructions from  Mario Nino, Associate director for the Stewardship Ministries, GC and  Larry Evans, Associate director for Stewardship Ministries, GC. 33 delegates, including the stewardship directors of the field units attended the program. On 26^th evening , G S Robert Clive, Treasurer, SUD inaugurated the meeting.

Larry Evans covered the topics such as: 1. Biblical foundation for Stewardship 2. Tithe as trust 3.Why give? 4. The measure of a gift 5. What I learned from young adults? He also had interviews with young people between  the age 15-28 to have an insight about their views and to clear their doubts about stewardship..

Mario Nino dealt more on the technical issues such as: GC Combine offering plan; (which is same as our comprehensive stewardship plan that we follow but upgraded and enriched); In the beginning God…; Theology of Stewardship Union &  Stewardship leadership. All the delegates felt enlightened about stewardship principles and promised to promote stewardship ministry in their respective fields.

Pr. B. R. Chandanshive, Director.

Stewardship Ministries, SUD

Pastor Y. R. Samraj celebrates 90th birthday

March 17^th was a thanks giving day for the children of Y. R. Samraj—Franklin, Tennyson, Kezia and Edison. It was the 90^th birthday of their dad pastor Samraj. All of

them gathered together along with relatives, friends and the church family in the Jeevan Jyothi English church Hosur and had a thanks giving service at 6 pm. After that a fellowship dinner was served.  Pr. Samraj expressed his thankfulness to the Lord for the wonderful ways in which He has led him through out his life. He served the church fruitfully for 43 years in various capacities: pastor, section president, principal of high schools and union department director. Though he turned 90, he is still active in doing God’s ministry. On Sabbath afternoons, if his health permits, he visits his neighbors and friends to enquire their wellbeing and pray for them. He sets a good example for the church members in Hosur. We wish him happy, healthy, long life.

RamaniKurian
 

RoorkeeCollege: Scholastic Pursuits Rewarded

Joseph Deep Kant Sharma, associate headmaster, Inter college, had success fully defended his doctoral thesis entitled, "Socio-Cultural Transformation of Rural and Urban India in the Novels of Bhabani Bhattacharya" and has been awarded Doctor of Philosopy by CMJUniversity, Shillong on 12th November, 2012.

Sharma is a product of RoorkeSchool. He started his career as a teacher in Hapur school in 1987. While in service, he completed MA English from MeerutUniversity in 1994 and B.Ed from AnnamalaiUniversity in 1996.  He worked in various schools in Northern India Union prior to joining RoorkeeCollege in 2002. His wife, Shalini is a teacher in our elementary section. They are blessed with 2 children, Bryan and Carol.The college admintistration, faculty, staff and students and the church family congratulate Joseph Sharma for his scholastic achievement. May God bless him as he continues to serve our institution.

Dayananda Rao, Vice-President, RoorkeeAdventistCollege

Vellore Region Retreat

Vellore Region conducted a retreat for the pastors and families at the campus of the Kings Matriculation school Kasam, Katpadi on March 10, 2013. K Chelladurai, President SEIUnion in his inaugural meeting called the people to consider family as God’s institution where obedience is the first lesson to learn. The habit to read Bible and pray is to be learned at home. He quoted the experience of Jacob how he had faithfully labored for twenty years and how God rewarded his hard work. In the second session,  Chelladurai stressed God’s  expectation for each one of us to bear fruits quoting the parable of the fig tree. The tree did not bear fruit, but simply wasted the ground and the gardner was forced to consider cutting down the tree. George Marimuthu  called the pastors to be fishers of men and narrated the heroic role of Peter in the early gospel ministry despite his personal weakness and illiteracy. He challenged the pastors to enter into the preaching of the gospel of salvation with genuine concern for the perishing souls in these last days. C D Mathew gave a study using Power Point presentation on the relevance of the Ark of the Covenant for Christians. John Wesley, Region Director welcomed the guests and  S Sekar, Treasurer proposed the vote of thanks. Mrs. Chelladurai gave out the presentations to the pastors. It was a very refreshing experience for all.

George Marimuthu

Retired Pastor establishes churches

Pastor William George, after his retirement, continues to support the ministry of the Lord by conducting evangelistic crusades and establishing new churches in Tamilnadu. He conducted 3  evangelistic crusades in Kambam, Udmalpet and Surapet in Chennai with the support of his family members, local sections, regions and pastors. He established 3 new churches. Recently he conducted an effort meeting in Mannargudi, 40 km from

Thanjavur. This meeting was sponsored by Sundar Singh and William George families with the support of Thanjavur-Karaikal section officers and pastors. 24 precious souls have accepted Jesus Christ as personal Savior through baptism. They meet in a rented hall for Sabbath services. Please remember this congregation in your prayers so that God will provide a new church for them to worship Him.

Paul Mani, President, Thanjavur-Karaikal Section

OBITUARY

Pr. Anand Baburao Chavan

Anand Chavan  was born on 14^th August 1929 in Tilwani, Maharashtra. After having latter part of schooling in Lasalgoan boarding school, he joined Spicer College and completed Theology education. He started his service as boys’ dean in Hatkanangale Adventist school. He married Ashalatha on March 7, 1960. They were blessed with two sons and a daughter. He served the Lord in various capacities for 40 years. Through his ministry he brought many people to the Lord. He retired as church ministerial director of Maharashtra Section. On September 14, 2012, he had a stroke and his health deteriorated and he breathed his last on February 9, 2013. He leaves behind his children-- Hemalatha, Reginald, Sujay and daughters-in-law—Archana & Ruby, grand children—Joshua, McAlpha & Ben Gideon and 2 brothers and 1 sister.

Dorothy Joan Willmott

Dorothy was the third born child of Pastor Y.G. Thomas and Minnie Grace in Pragasapuram, India on March 28, 1940. She completed her high school education at E.D. Thomas High School in 1958.  She was married to John Willmott on June 1, 1959. They were blessed with two children, Allan and Susan. While her husband was away in United States for further studies for two years (1964-1966) she served as the Dean of Women in Lowry Memorial School while taking care of her children. Dorothy served the Lord as a faithful companion to John as they ministered in various parts of India, South Africa, the United States, and other countries. Later she took on the responsibility of coordinating the work of Christian Children’s Fund, Asian Aid, and other charitable organizations that assisted children in Adventist schools. On March 10, 2013 she was admitted in the hospital for a heart surgery. She breathed her last on March 21, 2013. She was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. She leaves behind her husband John Willmott, son Allan, daughter Susan, daughter-in-law Premila, son-in-law Jeba, and grandchildren – Ashok, Priscilla, and Joanna, sisters – Esther Shadrach, Vimala Abraham, Chandra Attiken, brother Enoch Thomas and a host of relatives.

Pr. Vishwanath Waidande

Vishwanath Waidande was born on November 3, 1935 in Bhilavadi, South Maharashtra. He had his high school education in Lasalgoan and Hatkanangale boarding schools. He completed ministerial training at Lasalgoan school. He married Sunder on June 15, 1961. God blessed the couple with 2 sons and 2 daughters. He served the Lord as the minister of gospel, along with his wife, in various parts of Maharashtra. He retired in 1998 after completing 38 years of meritorious service. After retirement, he took care of Kasarwadi church and served as a literature evangelist. Later years he became ill and succumbed to his illness on 24^th March, 2013 at Pune Adventist hospital. He leaves behind his wife, Sunder; children, Premnath, Ruth, violet; daughter-in-law, Anita; sons-in-law, George Gandhi and Asir Devdas; grand children, Sonia, Rohit, Aparna Grace, Benhar, Akash and a host of relatives. 

Pastor Gnanaraj Ebenezer Kore

Gnanaraj was born to William and Chellamma Kore in Marthandam, Nagercoil on  May 4, 1947. He had his formal schooling in Prakasapuram and Kudikadu schools. He pursued under graduate Theological studies at SpicerMemorialCollege, Pune and Masters at Andrews University, USA. He married Hepzibah on May 7, 1969. Together they dedicated their entire life to serve the church. He had faithfully served the church in various capacities—department director, secretary of South Tamil Section, president of North Tamil Section, president of  South India Union and Director of Sabbath school and personal ministries department of Southern Asia Division till his retirement in 2012. He served the church for 44 years. He lived what he preached, unshaken in faith, uncompromising to principle, unwavering confidence in God amidst the most challenging circumstances.

 After a few weeks of chemotherapy for Multiple Myeloma at CMC , Vellore, he succumbed to it and breathed his last on April 15, 2013. He is survived by his dear mother Chellamma Kore; wife, Hephzibah; daughter, Pearlin; son-in-law, Rajkumar; grand children, Joash and Jared; brother, Arputharaj; sisters, Leela and Selin; brothers-in-law, Robinson, Wilson, Jeyam and James and other relatives. 

Seven city pastors representing 7 Unions in SUD attended the “Pastors in Conversation” program conducted by the Hope channel in Marwah Studio, near New Delhi the capital of India, on February 24. Pastor R John the SUD president welcomed Elder Jan Paulson, the G C President and introduced the pastors. The Pastors put forth different questions on various issues that they encounter at work such as: Evangelism in this radical thinking world; Administration and Evangelism; Keeping the young people in the church; Job opportunity for the young people; Casteism and its impact on the church. Elder Jan Paulsen explained the issues to their satisfaction. The Pastors were happy to have a direct talk with the world leader who provided them guidance.

SUD News November 20, 2011

T P Kurian

Communication Department

New Church in Khunti

A new Hindi Church was built and inaugurated on October 8, 2011 in the Khunti School Campus. It was long need to have bigger Church as the current Maranatha Church was to too small to accommodate all the members.  Mr. Enam Topno the Church Elder took the initiative to raise the fund an to complete the church. The section along with Khunti School also helped financially. On the inauguration day more than 2000 members gathered to witness and to worship in the new church.

Shishpal Singh, Director

Communication

Children's Ministries Day Celebrated in SWIU

October 15, 2011 was celebrated as Children's Ministries Day in most of the churches in the South West India Union. All the programs of the whole Sabbath were led out by children in these churches.  The Thiruvilwamala Church utilized the afternoon hours also by visiting a peacock park where the children presented various Bible programs and then had the sundown worship. In Nedumkandom church even the non-Adventist students of the school participated in the church programs

Musician's  Workshop Ernakulam School

Musician's  Workshop was conducted at Ernakulam school on 30th October 2011.  More than 100 of the talented youth from various churches of the union attended.  It was for the first time such a workshop was organized and it was inaugurated by Pr Edison Samraj from Adventist Media Centre, Pune. Classes were taken on topics like, the value of Music, How to develop musical skill. The scope of Music, the place of music in Christian worship was stressed and the guide lines for Adventist Music Ministry which is distinct from the contemporary music of the world were highlighted.  So the youth of the church were unitedly inspired and guided and departed taking vows to dedicate their time, talent and money for God's cause.  We expect to conduct such workshops in future also.

Mrs Thankam Paulson

Communication Director

My Recent Visit to North East India Union October 7-17, 2012

T P Kurian

I visited Northeast India Union as the field officer of the Adventist Child India units.  My first choice was to go Riverside school in Garo Hills. The school is situated in a scenic valley and by the side of a river.  There are around 800 students studying in the school  out of which 700 are  boarders. All the boarders are Seventh-day Adventist children from all over Northeast India union. This place provides an echo-centric environment for a boarding school, except for the threat of malaria in the vicinity.  The School has taken adequate steps to alleviate malaria problem. In spite of that some children are affected. A well equipped clinic is providing facility for the treatment.

Riverside academy, Garo Hills                      T P Kurian in front of the War                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Memorial Park in Kohima, Nagaland

Since there was a bundh in Shillong that day, I could not go to North East Adventist College, but went to Dimapur where the Nagaland  region is situtaed.  I went there by train and reached Dimapur in the night. That was my first trip to Dimapur. Along with the director I visited the oldest (mother) church in Nagaland, Jalukia for the mid-week prayer meeting.  

T P Kurian,. Moses Shimray, Kohima City Pastor            Dr. Angami, first Nagaland Adventist Believer

We went to Kohima, the capital of Nagaland  on the next day.  I visited the first Adventist Naga lady Dr. Angami who is  94 years old now.  Then we visited the War Memorial Cemetery established  in memory of soldiers who gave their lives for the  country during the Second World war in 1937-1944.  We had night meeting in the Kohima Adventist Church with the members.

There are great challenges for the work in Nagaland . The Office is situated in Dimapur which is a low land and during the rainy season, it floods and causes a lot of disturbances. They have sufficient property there to develop. But it should be raised up. With the help of some donors they were able to fill certain parts of the land but major portion still needs filling up. The school has no proper infra structure and proper class rooms.  Maranatha has promised  to build some class rooms.  Kohima is a growing city. We have a church in one side of the city where proper transportation facilities are lacking. Therefore the members find it hard to reach there,  especially during the monsoon season.

Next I visited Manipur Section, Imphal where I spent the week end,  preached in King’s way school Church during vespers and  Manipur main church on Sabbath. I also visited the two schools there and Manipur Adventist School which is the oldest boarding school in Manipur. These schools are slowly developing and need support to make them better.  We also visited the largest lake in Asia in Manipur.

Imphal main church-- Sabbath worship                         Prs. B Zimmick, T P Kurian, Kullu posingin front of the lake

Manipur section  also is a growing section. Central church is under renovation and coming up beautifully.  King’s way school has built five new classrooms. The property needed to be raised because whenever the river near the campus overflows, the campus floods. 

My next trip was to Tripura.  First I visited the bloom school in Telimura where 108 Adventist children are housed of which 17 are ACI children. This school is recently developed as the work in Tripura was progressing. There are more than 3000 members in this area  and 30 churches in east and west Tripura. I have visited two church schools  and  attended the midweek prayer meeting  in the Church where Santali tribal group is more predominant.  We had  a child dedication and five baptisms there. The work in Tripura is progressing. There are still many un- entered areas to be reached. Let us pray for the work in NEIU

ACI children, Bloom School Tripura       Child Dedication East Tripura church            Baptism  in East Tripura

10^th Anniversary Celebration

Jeevan Jyothi English Church, Hosur

November 9 &10, 2012

Nov, 9& 10, 2012 was a high week end for the members of Jeevan Jyothi English Church Hosur. All the members of the church were excited about the 10^th anniversary of the beautiful structure within which we celebrate Sabbath and other spiritual services week after week.

On 9^th Friday evening the youth of the church were accorded the opportunity to ponder upon the difference the church made in their lives. They presented their testimonies cherishing their beautiful memories of attending the children’s Sabbath school, learning songs and stories and getting closer to God. It was the privilege of Riches Christian to present a message during the vespers. His inspiring message was based on “What we have done?” He said that every one of us was put in this world to contribute and make a difference in our own unique way. He stressed 7 points that will help us reach our goal to advance of the Kingdom of God.

1. Your contribution is never too small

2. Start now to share love, don’t wait for the best time.

3. Happiness and love are the greatest gifts that can be shared with others.

4. Empower other people and seek to make a long-lasting effect.

5. Contribute to solutions and not to problems

6. Pray for the church, its pastor and the leaders

7. Lead the way for others to follow.

Riches’ message not only encouraged the youth, but also the elders. God bless the youth of the church!

On 10^th Sabbath morning at 9.15, as usual the Sabbath school program started with the song service. After mission story, feature talk and special song, the lesson study—Hope of Victory-- was led out by Paul Raj Isaiah, Nageshwara Rao and T P Kurian in a panel discussion.    

At 11.00 am the divine worship started by praising the Lord. During the worship hour, Chitra calvin presented the history of Jeevan Jyothi church. Andrew Selvaraj led the congregation through attitude of gratitude. Suresh& Nalini involved the church in a family prayer time. GJ Christo dwelt upon, “Holy Redeemer –Wholly His”. Jothi Anbiah was the chosen messenger of the Lord during the divine hour. In his message he called the attention of the congregation to ponder upon the difference ten years of worship experience in this church made in their lives. He drew the members to think about it posing 5 questions and enlightening them with scripture portions. He raised the concerns:  

1. Do I see and hear God when I come inside the church for worship?

2. Does my presence contribute to reverence in the church?

3. Did my worship experience change me to be like Jesus?

4. Are we the agency for the proclamation of truth?

5. Does our worship lead us to visions of future glory?

It was an eye opening exercise for all of us who were present for the divine worship. We had a nice fellowship lunch together after which all of us gathered together for a musical delight from 3.00 -4.00 pm. From 4.00 pm-5.00 pm we enjoyed the program presented by our pathfinder kids.

To close the day’s program at the close of the Sabbath, our church pastor Maywald Jesudass presented a dedicatory message that really put us to think about the significance of this temple of worship. He reminded us through his message that people would be attracted to the places when they felt, God’s presence was there. He challenged the members to look into our own personal life --our deliberations and actions—whether it reflects the presence of God that would attract more people into this temple of worship. We all departed gladly to enter into the new week after Antony Dass offered the benediction.

Ramani Kurian

Southern Asia Division Executive Committee: Yearend Meetings

November 19-21, 2012.

Southern Asia Division Executive Committee Yearend Meetings were held from November 19-21 in the Division Campus. We had L C Cooper, Daisy Orion, Dan Jackson, Harald Wollen to represent General Conference.  Members and representatives from various parts of the Division were present for the meetings.   Pre-session began on 14^th Nov. with the interview of the officers with individual unions, college and other Division units.

The day began with devotion from various leaders: Rakesh Chavan, Treasurer, Western India Union on 14th;  Daisy Orion, Associate Treasurer, GC on 15^th and Selvmony Yovan, President, South West India Union on the 16^th .  Dan Jackson, President, North America Division,  presented a beautiful message based on 1Peter 2:4 & 5 during the vespers. He encouraged the leaders and church members to be “lively stones to be built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ”. L C Cooper, Vice president, GC challenged the congregation of leaders and members to ponder upon “the purpose of the church” during the divine service. He put forth four significant points to bring out the reason why we exist in the world as a church: 1. To reveal God to the world; 2. To demonstrate the transforming power of God to change lives;  3. To live as a redeemed community that is different from the world; 4. To provide healing and reconciling ministry in and around us. He also charged the leaders with the following admonitions: 1. To give more attention to quality, not quantity; 2. To improve trust and confidence as a community; 3. To adopt and implement conflict resolutions;  4. To engage every member of the church—empower the laity; 5. To pursue excellence in all aspects of our lives—both personal and professional. He concluded stating that the church should be a living witness for the Lord, Jesus Christ.  

On 19^th morning the committee sessions started with a devotional message from R.John, President, Southern Asia Divison. His message was based on proverbs 11:30 “he that winneth souls is wise”.  Harald Wollen Associate Secretary, GC took devotion on the second day. He drew the attention of the leaders toward the Almighty God, who makes humanly impossible, the possible. On the final day Ch Victor Sam, President, East Central India Union, gave a message on “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain”. Philippians 1:21. Besides the morning devotion, special prayer was offered before each business session.

Dan Jackson  Speaker, Vespers      L C Cooper --  Divine Service   R John--  Devotional first day

Welcome GC Delegates                Farewell to MIicheal Prasad Rao            Budget Presentation

On the first day of the committee, the room was filled with heated discussion on property sale issues.  The members of the committee were seeking to find a solution for this issue. Finally a 3-member committee was appointed to enquire the details and present the report.

During the yearend meetings Vara Prasad was appointed as the Editior-in-chief  of Oriental Watchman Publishing House and Almgir Khan as Treasurer of Medical Trust.  Budget Committee made the decision to increase the Norm from 6300 to 7100, and an increase of Rs.15 to the previous TA for the 2013-2014 financial year.

Pr. D. Padmarj And Mr. Michael Prasad Rao were given farewell during the occasion. Each delegate was supplied with the book “Transparency & Accountability—A global commitment of Seventh-day Adventist church leaders”.  In closing, dedicatory prayer was offered by Dan Jackson after a united reading of Ellen White’s quotes on consecration by all the delegates of the committee.

Editorial: Ramani Kurian     

  Walking in the Light

As we have ushered into a new year, many of us have taken up new resolutions. New beginnings are always good and pleasant. We aspire to achieve great things in life. We as Christians need to take into consideration what is the great task for which we have been called to. We are given a special calling to do the mission of our Lord. God says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people that you should show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” I Peter 2: 9. We are no more in darkness. We are in the light, the marvelous light which will brighten us up whereby we will be able to accomplish the mission entrusted with us. Therefore we need to walk in the light.

When we are in darkness we cannot see anything what is in there. We are ignorant of what is happening around. We will be groping in darkness not knowing what to do. We are in our sinful condition. Self alone will be our focus. How to gratify our selfish desires, no matter what happened to others, becomes the whole purpose of life because we have no connection with the Light who said “Ye are the light of the world”. The end result is that we will be tied up with the world and our hearts will be filled with “all malice, all guile, hypocrisies and envies and all evil speaking” 1 Peter 2:1. To get out of such kind of a situation we need to get connected to the source of Light-Jesus our Lord. Mere words are insufficient to get connected, we need to experience Jesus in our lives to be out of the darkness which we are in. It is possible only through the study of His word asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten us. A sincere seeker of truth will never be cast out without help. Therefore let us make a resolution to seek the truth and walk in the light as we have entered into the new year.

When we get connected with our Lord Jesus, we will be able to see how He lived while He was on the earth. He lived among the people, mingled with them, attended to their needs-- healed the sick, comforted the down hearted, cast out the devil, fed the hungry. Nothing was done with an intention of self glory, but to make others comfortable. When we are in the light, that light of unselfishness will enter into the heart of each one of us. We also will be able to do the same mission that he started out in the world while He lived here. That is what is expected of us by heaven- to walk in the light. When we really know him, our vision will be enhanced and we can see perfectly well what our real condition is. Jesus is the Light and by beholding Him we will be changed into His likeness. He was full of compassion for every one of his erring children. When we feel the need of a cleansing He is ready and willing to cleanse us. But that choice is ours. We need to seek to be cleansed. Unless we feel the need of that cleansing, it is impossible for us to walk in the light of Jesus. Many a time, we are proud, arrogant and self-seeking, without being aware of it. Unless we surrender ourselves to the cleansing power of Jesus, we will remain still in darkness. When we surrender our ‘self’ willingly to the source of power, the compassionate Savior, He takes control and we will become new. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new” 1 Cor.5:17.  Take a moment and think! Am I undergoing the new birth experience in my daily life?  As followers of Jesus Christ, we need to serve our fellow beings with the same compassion and kindness Jesus showed while He lived here on the earth. An unselfish service only will be acceptable to the Lord. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your father which is in Heaven” Mathew 5:16.  Remember glory and honor belong to God alone, not to any human being. God bless you.

 Jeevan Jyothi Pathfinder Club, Hosur

The Jeevan Jyothi Pathfinder club was established about two decades ago when the Southern Asia Division office moved from Pune to Hosur. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The church which neglects to train up the youth and children will soon find that they  drift away from the truth and finally leave the fold. Pathfindering is a program that is committed to train the children and youth in the ways of the Lord so that they would grow to be the pillars of the church in the future.

As it has been the practice in Jeevan Jyothi Church, this year the Pathfinder leaders took up the challenge of nurturing and training the children of the church and the community. With the enrollment program in January 2012, about 40 children became part of the club. Ten master guides were put into action to care for the needs of the group which was divided into seven small units. The master guides were given the responsibility of mentoring by being role models for the children. We had fifteen Adventurer and 25 Pathfinder members. This year we had three students enrolled and completed successfully the PLA class (Pathfinder Leadership Award) and six students worked hard and completed the APLA class (Advanced Pathfinder Leadership Award). These seniors had the honor of being invested by the General Conference Youth Director Elder Gilbert Cangy at a youth Congress meeting organized by SUD youth department on November 10, 2012 in Bangalore. It was a memorable event. When working with children we realized that we needed to use new and fresh ideas to capture their attention and make an impact in their lives.

As we prayerfully worked out the programs and even though there were challenges, God became the only refuge to hold on to. Therefore by God’s grace we sailed through the year gaining victory after victory with each event passing successfully. Some of the activities that we undertook were Nature walks, Pot painting, trip to the zoo, trip to Mysore Palace, overnight camp in the Division campus, and Summer Camp in Denkanikotai. The pathfinder Club hosted three major events this year to bless the church and the community.  

1) Art Exhibition on 26^th January, 2012: The pathfinder children colored pictures depicting the National theme. It was an event that triggered the patriotic spirit in the children and audience

2) Science and Bible Exhibition on August 15, 2012: This was a unique exhibition ever seen. The theme was based on “Creation”. It was an attempt to create an awareness of how God created the world in six days and how Science is a revelation of God’s handiwork. The exhibition was divided into seven booths, each was to depict simple science experiments based on that day of creation. For example Light was created on the first day, so the children showed experiments on light on the first booth. The event was a great success.

3) Week of Prayer from November 17 to 22, 2012: Another unique event that culminated into the investiture service was the week of prayer that was completely hosted by the children for the church. The theme was based on the concept developed by the director of the club Alwyn Mark who said “If Jesus were to give you a HI Five what would it have”. He says it would have five avenues or channels through Jesus  wants to train the young people. These five channels are: 1) Bible: for it is a lamp unto our feet. 2) Nature: for it is the handiwork of God. 

3) Music: for good music is heaven bound. 4) Pioneer Stories: for the bible says do not remove the landmarks of the past. 5) Health: for our body is the temple of God.  The children of the club presented messages on each topic each day. They called it the “Hi Five from Jesus”. It was a blessed event and the children enjoyed it.

The investiture service was held on 24, November 2012. SUD youth director, Ravi Shankar was the guest of honor.

He spoke of the Pathfinder Club being a worldwide organization committed to training the youth of the church in a holistic manner which includes the Spiritual, Social, Physical and Mental aspects of the child’s development. That evening 15 adventurers and 25 Pathfinders were invested for the completion of their requirements. It was a high week and weekend for the club as they took over the Sabbath services also. LeRoy Samuel, the Sponsor of the club shared God’s word with the congregation on the theme “Creation Speaks out God’s glory”. Part of his message was delivered by the pathfinder children.

This year, in the history of the Pathfinder Club, the church witnessed how much the children and youth of the church can do for the church if they are motivated and guided enough to accomplish their task. The counselors and junior counselors were encouraged to render their voluntary service to guide and motivate the children. We, as a club, are thankful to the Lord for His marvelous leading. Only heaven knows what impact the club has had on the children. We just hope that they would become strong pillars of the church in future, holding responsibilities and gaining victories in Jesus’ name. Please keep the club in your prayers as we move on into the future, praying for the courage to stand.

Theme song of the week of prayer:

Courage To Stand

 
We are called to stand for such a time as this
 We must fight for what is right and learn to trust in Him
 We have a truth to live for, a promise to defend
 Stand up tall stand up proud ‘till the very end

Chorus. Stand strong, stand firm press on until the end
 And claim the promise of His word
 We have got a message let’s spread it through the land
 Praying for the courage to stand

Let’s run but let’s not hide proclaiming once again
To fight for what is right showing love unto all men
 Not fearing what may come nor looking to the past
 Trusting everything we are to the one whose love will last

Ch

 Standing, standing, standing on the promises of Christ my savior
 Standing, standing, I’m standing on the promises of God

                   Ch                                                                                           

Praying for the courage to stand   x 2

                                                                        Alwyn Mark, Director, Pathfinder Club, Jeevan Jyothi Church

Women’s Retreat: Jeevan Jyothi English Church, Hosur

 The women in the Division headquarters church were offered a day off from their routine work and deliberations on Sunday 25^th November, 2012. Lissie George and Ruby Anbiah, women’s ministries leaders of the church, planned for an outing for the women to Jain Farm, a retreat center, around 50 km away from Hosur. At 8’0 clock in the morning we boarded the school bus and reached there by 8.45. After having breakfast there, we moved into the spiritual session of the program.

Premila Masih, Division Women’s Ministries Director delivered a beautiful message on hospitality. She encouraged each woman to be hospitable and caring. Gracifills Sangma, Jamuna Gompa & Kunta Biswas presented an excellent skit about a wealthy man who yearned to earn more but lost his wealth, family and even health. The skit demonstrated how covetousness brings destruction and ruin in human life. We learned that it is always good to be content with what we have and to live an acceptable life before the Lord.

Next, Deborah Samraj engaged the women in a Bible game in the way of a written quiz based on the book of psalms. It was a delightful experience for all the women and inspired us to keep close touch with the Bible. We also had a season of prayer after which we departed for our social enjoyments. Some of us enjoyed swimming in the swimming pool and others walked around watching the different attractions in the farm. By evening we returned to Hosur after refreshing ourselves for a day. We thank the WM leaders and all those who supported to make this day possible for the women of the church.

Ramani Kurian

Lay training program in Shillong
Recognizing the need for the involvement of the laity in evangelism, Tony Rykers, a lay man from Australia conducts training program for lay people to reach people with the message of the second coming of Jesus. Responding to his call a lay training program was organized in the Khasi Jaintia Conference from June 23 to 24, 2012. The programs were held in Shillong Central Church.

               
Inspiring instructions and counsels were given by Tony Rykers from the Cornerstone Ministries, Australia. Along with the members many local church pastors were also present. Pastors had their training program on how to use the final events DVD study guide. All the pastors and the members who attended the two days training program were greatly blessed and enriched. They rededicated their lives to work for the Master in the days to come with vigor and enthusiasm.
Rajaratnam Jones

Final Events DVD Training Program at Aizawl, Mizoram
Final Events is a DVD produced by the Cornerstone Ministry, Australia and distributed free of cost to anyone who is interested to watch the same. There is a specific way of using the same and one can reach many people with the warning message of the second coming of Jesus.

The Final Events DVD training program was organized in Mizo Conference on June 29, 2012. Inspiring instructions and counsels were given by Tony Rykers. He taught the pastors how to make use of the Final Events DVD to reach the people for Christ. Pastors were inspired and committed to make use of this facility to make people ready for the coming of Christ.

If anyone is interested in receiving this Final Events DVD(free)  may contact me at the following email. rjones@sud-adventist.org or
rajaratnamjones@gmail.com
You may also contact Pr. C D Mathew
mathewcdplakal@gmail.com
Let us all work together, use all the means and facility available to finish the gospel work. May we get ready and also make others ready for the soon coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.                                                                                      Rajaratnam Jones

  MARATHI – VOP BIBLE CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL REOPENED

Marathi VOP Bible Correspondence School was reopened on Sep 18^th 2012 at the Central Maharashtra Conference, Pune by Western India Union.  Hidayat Masih, SSPM Director, SUD, R Y Jadhav, President of WIU, L D Battise, SSPM Director of WIU and  J N sathe, President of CMC were present to grace the occasion.  A  brief history of Marathi VOP School was presented by L D Battise. Hidayat Masih delivered a devotional message after which he reopened the Marathi VOP School. Other officers and Staff of WIU and Central Maharashtra Conference had witnessed it. We pray and dedicate this school to God who would help us to spread the everlasting gospel message to many Marathi communities in Maharashtra.

DVD EVANGELISM TRAINING PROGRAM

DVD Evangelism Training Programs were conducted in three unions--Southwest, Southeast and Northern India Unions in Southern Asia Division. Jonathan Kuntaraf, Director, Sabbath School & Personal Ministries, General Conference;  Chester Clark 111, ASI Director; and Hidayat Masih, SSPM Director, SUD were the resource personnel who led out these DVD training programs successfully. 

Southwest India Union: DVD Evangelism training took place in Ernakulam, Kerala on October 30 & 31, 2012.  K J Varghese, SSPM Director, was the coordinator.  Around 115 people attended all the sessions.  

            The Resource personnel gave them training regarding how to win others to the Master using the New Beginnings DVD, CD. All the delegates received a DVD player and New Beginning Sermons and a book with evangelism training materials. 

               Southeast India Union: DVD Evangelism took place in Chennai at St. Thomas Mount on November 1 & 2, 2012. Rajamani Muthu R, SSPM Director, was the coordinator.  Delegates numbering 155 from all over SIU units safely arrived to the training place; attended all the sessions enthusiastically. All of them recieved the New Beginnings DVD, CD, and a book with evangelism training materials. 

Family get-together Week

            Thrissur Central Church celebrated the family get-together week on September 29, 2012. Joseph Skariah was the speaker for the Vespers and the Sabbath for this special week.

He awakened the church with beautiful illustrations of God’s love for His people.  Children presented beautiful roses to their parents & they in turn held the roses high above their heads & waved together to thank God for His blessings on the families.  After the divine service a fellowship lunch was served.  Altogether it was a wonderful time for everyone.

Thankam Paulson

Journeying with Jesus:

Week of Prayer at Priyadarshini College of Nursing 

About 50 to 60 % of attendance in our churches consists of women. Some women are called by God to serve in their local churches and in their communities. One of such active women (Lay Leader) in Andhra Pradesh is Madam Lily Choppala. She has been playing an important role in support of Lord’s work in various aspects. She takes part in church activities; on her own she established a church; at present she is running a Nursing School and College. She also runs a school-- Tholath Memorial high school in Rajamundry, AP.

When asked, she highly testified of the leading of the Lord in her life. Recently I got the opportunity to work closely with her when she invited me to be the speaker for a week of spiritual emphasis. The theme was “Journeying with Jesus”. The messages were focused on young people, nearly 250 girls who came from different religious backgrounds. Emphasis was on daily walk with Jesus. In spite of rain, many came to listen the messages based on bible truth and end time preparation. There was good music, lively stories by Lilly Satyavadi, and great singing by the students.

Lily Choppala also invited nearby Christian leaders, pastors and members. It was truly a time of revival. There was question answer sessions and prayer sessions. Finally on November 3^rd Sabbath services in Rajamundry was a time of celebration for the local members and students of Priyadarshini College of Nursing. We had seven girls taken stand for Jesus by baptism.

It is the desire of  Lily Choppala to run the school exactly on Adventist principles and guidelines. Many young people take decision for Jesus in this noble institution. Some testify that the experience at Priaydarshini has not only enlightened them in Nursing career but also to know Jesus and learn clear Bible truths. We praise God for active lay people in our church. We want to wish God’s rich blessings on Priyadarshini college of Nursing as they continue to shine for Jesus.

 Measapogu Wilson, Director Ministry to Families, Children, Differently abled & Prisons, SUD

They Shall See His Face…

Annual Conference for Sight Impaired

Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see him… Rev 1:7 NKJV. One day soon your eyes will be opened and you will first see Jesus face to face. When I preached on this, there was smile and relief upon the young and old in the conference for Blind recently. Adventist church is a caring church. We care for hearing and sight impaired. We have 25 pastors working among the deaf in ECIU, SEIU and SCIU. We thank God for the noble organization-- Asian Aid-- for their support to the most unfortunate in the society. We have a school for sight impaired in Bobbili (AP) and for speech & hearing Impaired in Kollegal (Karnataka). Many physically handicapped children find hope through these special schools. Many students excel in studies, local community activities and more importantly knowing Jesus who will make them whole one day when He comes.

We have many sight impaired believers spread all over the division. In particular we have 50 or more members in and around Bangalore. Since 2010 we have been conducting annual camp meetings every year to encourage them spiritually. Guna Shekar, a teacher at Sunshine school shares special burden for them. He and his family members volunteer along with other friends and well wishers put in their time, talent and treasure to make Jesus more real in the lives these impaired people.

This year we gathered at Sunshine campus from October 25 to 28. About 50 believers, children and others have wonderful messages on preparation for end time, quality Christian life etc.  At the end of the conference, Sabbath day, 27th October, was a very special day for them. 10 people took baptism and joined the Adventist faith. Leadership of SCIU, Bangalore Metro Conference and Sunshine Home gave their full co-operation. We thank them sincerely. We look forward to have such fellowships for disabled in other unions too. We thank all who contributed in making this programme a success. Kindly pray for the disabled ones that Jesus be their strength.

 Measapogu Wilson, Director,  Differently abled.

Music workshop for Northeast India Union

Music Workshop for Northeast India Union was conducted at two places; Aizawl on  23^rd October and in Shillong on 25^th October 2012. The workshop at Aizawl started with a devotion by P C Liansailova, a retired departmental director and a well known song composer.  He also took one paper on “How to Compose Christian Music/songs”. The main resource person was Edison Samraj, Director, Adventist Media Centre (AMC) Pune. He presented papers on the following subjects:

1. (i)Guidelines to Christian Music
2. (ii)Concept, Content and Context of Christian Music
3. (iii)Rudiment (Basic) of Sacred Music
4. (iv)Significance of Christian Music

At the end of the workshop, a music association for the Mizo Conference was formed.  The association was named Mizo Adventist Music Association (MAMA).  A resolution from the music workshop was sent to the Mizo Conference Executive Committee to endorse the Association so that it can serve as a platform for the musicians/singers/composers to a level that their work can be benefited by the world church through AWR and other electronic media of the church. In all 16 singers/composers/musicians of the Conference attended the workshop, which include  Vanlupuii & Tlanthangi  who are singers of repute.

The workshop in Shillong is meant mainly for Khasi Jaintia Conference.  Though the attendance in this workshop was thin, yet the participants were the cream of Khasi Jaintia Conference with regard to music. Edison Samraj being the main resource personnel presented his papers. “How to Compose Christian Music” was presented by Standhope Hynniewta.  At the end of the workshop, a visit was made to the Khasi Jaintia Conference office to see the room for setting up a recording studio. The union would like to put on record its appreciation to Edison Samraj for his valuable presentations, and we look forward that his visit will bear much fruits and the music ministry will be raised to a higher level.

C C Dkhar, Communication Director, NEIU

Editorial: Ramani Kurian

Beware, the devil is around!

The editorial of the previous issue of Southern Asia Tidings assures us with the promise of God that His presence will be with all who will faithfully carry out the commission of our Lord Jesus Christ. But we should be very careful about the arch enemy of God, Satan, who deceives, even the very elect in mysterious ways. Because he knows that he has only a very short time left. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour,” 1 Peter 5:8. He and his evil angels approach us not in ugly forms with two horns and long teeth as they are often depicted in pictures and drawings. They do the work of drawing us away from the Lord and His mission in very subtle ways. They, sometimes, come in the form of angels, noble and elevated. Do you remember how Eve was deceived at the beginning of creation? The devil was able to make her, a sinless being, distrust God and believe his words. He mixed truth and error and projected himself as a well wisher of our first parents. Eve was deceived and she disobeyed God and ate the forbidden fruit and shared it with her husband too. They fell from their high estate as sinless being.  Even today, by mixing truth and error, his powerful strategy, Satan deceives people around the globe.

Satan makes plans for the destruction of God’s church and His people. “I saw that Satan bade his angels lay their snares especially for those who were looking for Christ’s second appearing and keeping all the commandments of God. Satan told his angels that the churches were asleep. He would increase his power and lying wonders, and he could hold them. “But,” he said, “the sect of Sabbath keepers we hate; they are continually working against us, and taking from us our subjects, to keep the hated law of God. Go, make the possessors of lands and money drunk with cares. If you can make them place their affections upon these things, we shall have them yet. They may profess what they please, only make them care more for money than for the success of Christ’s kingdom or the spread of the truths we hate. Present the world before them in the most attractive light, that they may love and idolize it. We must keep in our ranks all the means of which we can gain control. The more means the followers of Christ devote to His service, the more will they injure our kingdom by getting our subjects. As they appoint meetings in different places, we are in danger. Be very vigilant then. Cause disturbance and confusion if possible. Destroy love for one another. Discourage and dishearten their ministers; for we hate them. Present every plausible excuse to those who have means, lest they hand it out. Control the money matters if you can, and drive their ministers to want and distress. This will weaken their courage and zeal. Battle every inch of ground. Make covetousness and love of earthly treasures the ruling traits of their character. As long as these traits rule, salvation and grace stand back. Crowd every attraction around them, and they will be surely ours. And not only are we sure of them, but their hateful influence will not be exercised to lead others to heaven. When any shall attempt to give, put within them a grudging disposition, that it may be sparingly.” – {EW 266.1}.

We cannot escape from his vileness unless we have strong relationship with God who will be our strength in overpowering him. That relationship can be established only by knowing Him and keeping communion with Him through prayer. When Jesus was on this earth as a human being, Satan appeared as an angel of light to deceive Him, thereby to destroy Him and His mission. He would have failed, hadn’t He relied on His Father for strength. He was in constant communion with God, His Father. So also, we need to keep constant communion with God through diligent study of His word and sincere and earnest prayer. Satan cannot overcome a child of God who is connected to the source of power-- Jesus, our Lord. 

Jesus gained victory over Satan through submission and faith in God and by the apostles He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you. James 4: 7&8. We cannot save ourselves from the tempter’s power; he has conquered humanity, and when we try to stand in our own strength, we shall become a prey to his devices; “but the name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runneth into it and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10. Remember! Satan trembles and flees before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that Mighty Name. Would you like to submit to God and walk in faith that you will be victorious over Satan, the arch enemy of God? God will use you to accomplish His mission on this earth to spread the gospel of the kingdom unto all nations and “then shall the end come.” God be with you!

Division Wide Master Guide Camporee,

 Roorkee,  April 17 - 21, 2013

The department of Youth Ministries of Southern Asia Division organized a Division wide Master Guide Camporee at Roorkee Adventist College from April 17 - 20, 2013 under the leadership of Ravindra Shanker, the youth director of SUD. It was the first Master Guide Camporee Southern Asia Division ever had.  The main objectives of organizing this camporee were:

1.    To promote Master Guide program in all our churches and schools

2.    To prepare a road map for youth ministry in Southern Asia Division

3.    To bridge the generation gap between the young and the old

Keeping the above points in mind, the theme chosen was"INNOVATE TO SERVE". It was a time of real learning experience for nearly 325 master guides who attended the camporee. We had a very good combination of resource personnel from various  occupational backgrounds, besides the church employees. We would like to acknowledge the service of the lay persons, who helped the comporee with valuable insights and rich experience: Dr. Bharath Singh, CEO, Children’s Academy, Jaipur; Dr. John Rajkumar, Specialist, Narayana Hrudalaya,  Bangalore and Mr. Bobban Varghese,  CEO, Teaq Technologies, Bangalore.

The inauguration ceremony was colorful, with all the master guides gathered in their uniform and with flags lined up in parade in the ground of Roorkee Adventist College at 6 pm on April 17, 2013. The inaugural address was given by Jothi Anbiah, Vice president, SUD.  His message based on ‘innovate to serve’ was really inspiring to all who attended it. He started with a question, “whom should we serve?”. We can either serve the Lord or the gods the fathers worshiped on the other side of Egypt, the gods of flesh pots, passions or sinful desires. Choosing to serve the Lord is a personal choice as it was declared by Joshua, “ but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”, Joshua 24:15. God has chosen each one of us to be co-labourers with Him. So the admonition was to shine forth for the Lord as individual members of His church, innovating new strategies to reach out the people in darkness and draw them to Jesus, the compassionate Savior.   

Every day the programs started with a parade and flag hoisting ceremony in the morning. Each group was privileged to raise the flag in the morning or lower the flag in the evening. The groups were very much enthusiastic in participating and doing their parts faithfully. On18th morning, after the devotional talk by Ezras Lakra, president, NIU; Justus Devadas, president, Spicer college opened the plenary session. He presented a paper on “the experience of the elders and the vibrancy of the youth is a perfect combination to fulfill the mission of the church”.  Group discussions were conducted from 11. 30 am to 1.00 pm daily with resource personnel and a group of youngsters. These group discussions gave the youth an opportunity to discuss various ways in which the master guides can work towards the mission of the church to reach all the people with the gospel message. In the afternoons all the groups came together to present the essence of their discussions to all. M J Prakasam, President, Lowry Memorial College had presented a paper on “Barriers for the youth participation in the church activities and workable solutions to eliminate the same” on 18^th afternoon. First day’s programs came to a close with a devotion by Milan Rana, president, Roorkee Adventist College.  On Friday, 19^th morning devotion was taken by Selvin Moorthy, Under Treasurer, SUD followed by a presentation by Shekhar Philip, vice president, Lowry College on “ The role and importance of Master  Guides in youth ministry”. Vesper service was taken by Ravindra Shankar.

Sabbath celebration was really nice and it uplifted the members spiritually. A beautiful panel discussion of the Sabbath School lesson was very much enriching followed by the divine service. The speaker of the Divine service was Edison Samraj, Director, AMC. His message based on the theme has uplifted the youth to think about how God used  innovative methods to meet the needs of His children. Through various examples he directed the attention of the congregation to the Omnipotent God, who can use  each one

of us to attain His purposes by His innovative ways, if only we surrender our lives to Him and for His service. At the closing of the Sabbath, L F  Lyngdoh, president, NEIU  led the master guides into a consecration service where every master guide lifted up the lighted candle and pledged to serve the Lord with their abilities and talents. Then the  group gathered in the ground for  parade and march past after which the flag was lowered. After supper, there was a cultural program. On 21^st Sunday morning, with a grateful heart towards Roorkee Adventist College for its hospitality rendered to all of us and with a strong determination to serve the Lord faithfully, we  returned to our respective places.

Ramani Kurian, Asst. director,  Communication, SUD

CANDLE LIGHTING AND CAPPING CEREMONY

METAS Adventist College of Nursing celebrated the Candle Lighting and Capping Ceremony on 22nd February, 2013 in our church between 6:30-8:00 pm in the presence of the administration, faculty, students, parents, well wishers, and church members. 30 B.Sc, 20 GNM, and 11 ANM students from Bangladesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Bihar, Orissa, West Bengal and Jharkhand participated in the event,  making it a memorable one in the history of METAS, Ranchi. Cornelius Murmu, the executive vice president, in his introduction of the chief guest, P.D.Kujur, former president of NIU said, “ We are honoured to have Pr.P.D.Kujur for guest because he had a long standing dream in his tenure to see a College of Nursing in Northern India union. I proudly declare to the audience that this is not the first but fourth group of B.Sc and first group of ANM students of METAS Adventist College, Ranchi.” A feeling of achievement and satisfaction brightened the countenance of one and all in response to the  inspiring words. The event took place in a serene and pleasant atmosphere where all the cameras were shut out during the ceremony. The chief guest in his consecration message emphasized on the theme: “DEVOTION TO SERVICE.”

He charged the entire church along with students with the essence of devotion, commitment, consecration and dedication. His years of experience was revealed in his limited words which conveyed volumes of messages sourcing his sermon purely from the Holy Scriptures and Ellen G. White’s writings. I felt great pronouncing the vote of thanks.
Subhakar Prasad, Asst.dean for student affairs, METAS, Ranchi

March 16, 2013 Global Youth Day: Southern Asia Division

The Global Youth Day was celebrated in almost all parts of SUD. It was a great success in our Division & all over the world. It was a day of compassion. The young people of our church took part in activities of compassion & kindness on this day & became a sermon to the less prevailed & unfortunate ones.  On this day the young people visited hospitals, orphanages, old age homes, destitute homes, prisons, physically challenged & mentally challenged homes etc, to distribute clothes, food packs, fruits; to hold medical camps, health expo & many more programs. In the afternoon the young people donated blood in the blood donation camps. In the evening thanks giving services were held at each location; during which the video clippings & photographs of the activities held were projected on the screen & the reports were heard from the coordinators. At Bangalore we were able to have Skype conversation with Gilbert, GC youth director, Hope Channel Germany, union youth directors. We were also able to view video clippings of other divisions.

AT SCIU:  We received reports from Bangalore, Mysore, Kollegal. At Bangalore the event was very grand. Nearly 300 youth from 8 churches took very active part. They had special T-Shirts. The Kannada church youth had a unique program of inviting the economically weaker section of the Adventist church like ayahs, peons, attenders & worshiped with them, listened to their problems, prayed with them & even counseled them. They even gave away 5 kgs of rice to each one of them. 30 young people donated blood.
AT SEIU: We received reports from Chennai, Madurai& other places. At Chennai nearly 250 youth from 7 churches took active part in this event.
AT SWIU: We received reports from Ernakulam, Trichur, Ottapalam, Idduki, Trivandrum & other places that the youth were very active.
AT ECIU:  Youthfrom Hyderabad, Nuzvid,Rajamandry, Vijayawada & other places actively participated in the program.  Hyderabad youth were very active & started the day at 7.30 in the morning. 30 young people donated blood.
AT WIU: Youth from Kholapur & south Maharashtra  participated in the program.
AT NIU: Youth from NIU were very active on this day. We received reports from Delhi,Jaipur,Kunti,Ranchi,Jallandur,Ajmeer,Indore, NBS,Hapur & other places that every one actively participated in all the programs of the day. Delhi youth donated 40 bottles of blood & organized health expo in the campus.
AT NIEU: Youth from Meghalaya, Shillong, Manipur & other places were very active and participated in all the programs of the day.
AT HOSUR: Youth from Jeevan Jyothi, English church, Hosur church celebrated GYD meaningfully.

On the whole it was a blessed day for the youth of the church; memorable events to cherish their association with the unfortunate ones. The young people are very much excited to have many more programs of this nature. On this day our young people have also distributed THE GREAT CONTROVERSY book at several places.  All glory honor to LORD ALMIGHTY for using our young people for His ministry.
Ravindra Shankar, Director, Youth Ministries, SUD

Global Youth Day at Division Head Quarters, Hosur

The Global Youth day organised by the General Conference Youth Department was a very good initiative and a great concept ‘Be a Sermon’. March 16 was an exciting day for the youth of the Southern Asia Division Headquarters church and it was a blessed experience for all of us.

The Head quarters church had embarked on doing 4 outreach activities on this day.

1. 1.Feeding the2. Hospital Visitation   3. Orphanage Visitation 4. Blood Donation Camp

Food Distribution:

For the food distribution we requested each church family to contribute 3 food packets so that they could also have a part in this activity and we got around 300 plus food packets for distribution. We went and distributed these to the poor people on the streets and they were so happy to receive it and some of them blessed us and said they were expecting to go hungry that afternoon but we were like God sent messengers to provide them food.

On our way back to the campus at around 1:30 pm we still had around 80 packets of food left and we could not find any more poor people around at that time & we did not want the food packets to go a waste so we contacted a known orphanage and asked them if we could provide food for the kids. To our surprise, they said that the kids still did not have their food and we could come over. When we reached the orphanage, the director of the orphanage told something that touched our hearts. He told us that a donor had promised to provide food for the kids that afternoon but called up a few minutes before we could come there and informed them that they were not able to provide the food because they had completely forgotten their commitment. And we were there to provide the kids with those packed food. The director and the kids were really happy that we were there at this critical time with the food packets that they needed. When we see the above happenings we certainly & strongly believe that it was the Lord’s leading that took us to those places where people’s needs were to be met. All of those who took part in this activity were really happy that they were a part in sharing the blessing with those who were less privileged.

Hospital Visitation: The youth team visited the Government (Public) Hospital & met with patients in the Women’s ward and also the children’s ward and distributed fruits to all of them. Though some of the patients were not Christians, they had requested us to pray for their sick ones and were happy that we could come and visit and pray with them.

Orphanage Visitation: The youth team visited an orphanage ‘Love Children’s Home’ which had around 22 kids. Our pathfinders conducted activities for the kids there. They had colouring activity and also involved the kids in some skits. We taught them some new songs. We also distributed small Bibles to the kids. Before we could wind up, we distributed some snacks and drinks. The orphanage director and the kids were so happy that we visited them.

Blood Donation Camp: We had the blood donation camp on the next day.  We had 25 donors who were able to donate blood that day. Besides a  few of our Adventist doctors & nurses, some medical directors from the public hospitals assisted us in this event. 

Towards the close, we had a fellowship lunch, during which the medical directors from the public hospital appreciated what our church is doing to serve the society at large. The Adventist Youth department of the headquarters church of the southern Asia Division has decided that we would continue to work on these projects even during the year. The plan is to do such activities every quarter.

A big ‘thank you’ to the General Conference Youth Department for coming up with this concept of ‘Being a Sermon’.  This truly was a blessed experience for all of us here at the Headquarters church of Southern Asia Division.                                                                                                                  Riches Christian, SUD

Annual Meeting Cum Golden Jubilee of Garo Section

         The Garo Section Annual Meeting was held at Donigre church from January 30^th– 2^nd February, 2013. Donigre is a remote village in South Garo Hills but road and transportation connectivity is not bad. Ruga is one of the sub-clan among the hill tribe of Garos or Achiks.  The Theme of the Annual Sobha was “Arise and Shine.” Many delegates from different churches and companies all over Garo Hills, Khasi Hills and adjoining areas of Assam border attended the meeting. Many guest speakers also came to this annual Sobha. President, OWPH; president Khasi and Jantia Conference; principal, Riverside Academy; Chichotcheng, Bajengdobha, East Garo Hills, Meghalaya, NEIU Publishing Director and his family also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, Donigre celebrated its golden jubilee. The Three Angels’ Message was brought to this village by Lt. Pr. Kontinath Marak, the government forest ranger of Assam. After joining Seventh Day Adventist church, he faced many Sabbath problems in his service. So he resigned his job and joined as a mission worker and became the first ordained minister of Garo Hills. Then he came to his own native village with his friends to conduct the cottage effort in the year 1960 from Bajengdobha, East Garo Hills Meghalaya.  Eleven people were baptized after one month series of Bible studies. Lt. Pr. Bhoykin, a foreign missionary baptized the new believers. The newly baptized members stood firm for the Lord, in spite of the many trials and difficulties they had to undergo. Since then it is a growing church under the care of various shepherdswho took interest in strengthening it. This year they are celebrating golden jubilee and a new church building is getting completed. May it remain as a shining light to whole Rugapara region. 

Lunar Sabbath Worshipping Awareness Camp, 2013

Garo Section

Garo Section, organized in 1996, comprises of 35 organizied churches and 150 Companies. The total membership is more than 11,000. Though it is growing like a burning fire, Satan is trying his best to destroy the true church of God.  He does not like to see God’s people growing in Garo Hills. He tries his best to shake the believers of Garo Hills as much as he could. He used his agents from among the believers of Garo Hills, those who were not faithful to God. In 1985 and 1986 some believers introduced false teachings regarding ceremonial Sabbaths. The members were confused and many left the church. Many are still struggling with the problem of identifying the true teaching. Some members of the churches and companies of Garo Section are still clinging to the false teachings.

Knowing the crisis among the believers, B K .Momin, Garo Section president invited Michael Pedrin, a well known Adventist Bible scholar and preacher from Mangalore to conduct ‘Lunar Sabbath Worshiping Awareness Seminar’ for five days,  5^th– 9^th February, 2013 in New Tura church. More than 70 delegates attended the seminar and learnt many new truths. He even shared his web site address to the delegates and power point presentation sermons. We thank him for his great contribution and timely messages that brought about new insight to our believers.  May the good Lord continue to bless him and his family in their ministry. Garo Section needs your prayers, so that the church will be strengthened in such shaking time in future.                                                      BK Momin, president

Children’s Ministries child Care Coordinators’ Training            

 Manipur Conference

Deborah F Samraj, Assistant Director, Children’s Ministries, Southern Asia Division and  Jemima Sangma, Children’s Ministries Director NEIU paid their maiden visit to Manipur Conference, after Manipur attained her conference status on Dec. 7, 2012. Conference president Barnabas Zimik congratulated them for being the first persons to come and promote the departmental training in the conference. The training was held on May 6- 9, 2013 in which all the conference leaders attended. Delegates from six circles mostly children’s Sabbath school  teachers, child care coordinators along with their circle leaders attended the meeting. Deborah F. Samraj emphasized the philosophy and mission of children ministries.

Jemima Sangma stressed on the needs and vulnerability of children as they expose to modern society. Also she taught how parents should pray with their children. “Children are the circle of the world, we should not ignore them” she added. In practical sessions, songs, music, games, story-telling, arts and crafts with other activities related to children were demonstrated. Once upon a time Manipur was called a land of jewels. However, W. Hulang, director of the ministries was worried because Manipur is now facing so many challenges, like bandh, curfew, economic blockade etc. But in the midst of uncertainty, we thank the Almighty God that all who have come from different circles to attend and participate were immensely blessed.  

Adahe Chara, communication director, Manipur Conference

School news

VBS at Madurai School

Vacation Bible School was successfully conducted from April 22 to 26, 2013 at Madurai Central School with the participation of over 140 students. The children were nurtured with songs, Bible stories, nature talk, health tips, stories with moral values and prayers. School teachers enthusiastically offered their services to teach the children new songs, drawing, colouring, skits, craft and art work. Bennet Gnanraj, principal, presented the honors for the participants. It was a memorable week for the children who participated.

Marshall Stephen David, Communication Secretary,  Madurai Central School

First student, first to take stand for Jesus!

Sundaramma, the first student who joined the Seventh-Day Adventist school for Speech and Hearing Impaired (formally known as the Asian Aid School for the Deaf) became the first student to be baptized by Pr. Alfred Griffith on 2^nd March 2013. The whole weekend was very special as we were ministered by Pastors from the Gospel Outreachfor the Deaf,  Alfred Griffith, John Blake, David Trexler and  Francisca Trexler accompanied by  M Wilson, Director for differently abled ministries, Southern Asia Division. The earnest sermons, councils, teachings and the simple Christ-like lifestyles of the pastors have made a deep impact on the students and many more have decided to take a stand for Jesus. We are so thrilled and we praise God for the Holy Spirit working wonders among the deaf. We are ever grateful to the Asian Aid Organization for their vision in establishing this first AdventistSchool for the deaf in the world by which many deaf and hard of hearing children in this area are getting an opportunity to have a Christian education.

Jacob Bhaggien, Principal

Vaction Bible School  at Edayanallore                                                                               By the grace of God, the first ever VBS in the short history of the church at Edayanallore was held from May 5—12, 2013. 60-75 children attended regularly and they were taught new songs and stories in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and English. Health and nature talks were other highlights. On the closing day, T. Mohan, director & Franklin Ponniah, secretary-treasurer, Dharmapuri Region addressed the children and gave them gifts and prizes. May God help the children and all those who were helpful in conducting the VBS  in the church.     

                                                          Yovan Seerpatham, church pastor

Adventist Work in Nepal: New Hope                                                                          In a simple and solemn function, at the central Church Gathaghar,  Kathmandu Valley, Jothi Anbiah, vice president, SUD, declared Umesh Kumar Pokherel as acting director of Nepal Field on April 23, 2013, after giving a simple yet timely message based on Thessalonians 2:12 and Col. 1:10. There were about two dozen church members in the church, because it was organized on a short notice.  Umesh welcomed those who came, while Naseeb Basnet, pastor offered the prayer. Jothi Anbaiah assured the congregation that the Division would stand by Umeshkumar and support to make Nepal Field bloom and spread the Gospel message. He encouraged the congregation to walk with the Lord and  cooperate with Umesh Kumar and the Division to spread the Gospel message in Nepal. The office for Nepal Field was dedicated by Naseeb Basnet and he offered  the dedicatory prayer. Umesh Kumar accepted it as God’s call and encouraged the people to finish the work of God in Nepal unitedly.  

By extending the olive branch to Adventist believers in Nepal, the Division came with high vision for this country. Jothy Anbiah hoped that in the future, there would be enough gospel workers and leaders in Nepal to shine brightly for Jesus. One day all the workers and leaders would be brought together for strategic planning, prayer and work in unity. "There are challenges" he said, "but with God's help they can be met boldly with His power." Brother Riches Christian from the treasury department of SUD was also present at the function.

 Umesh Kumar Pokherel is the AWR director at present. He has been working in the church for a number of years. He has LLB degree and master of education from Spicer as well as from Nepal university. He comes from an affluent family. All the believers wish him the best as he moves ahead to bring honor and glory to God by walking humbly with the Lord as he leads the people of Nepal Field. We hope Nepal Field will turn a new leaf for the Adventist believers here. Those of us who want to be worthy of our call to be Seventh Day Adventists in Nepal would like to request the readers of this news to pray expressing solidarity with Nepal Field that is running under the umbrella of Southern Asia Division, under the direction of General Conference.                                                                                                                                                          Bhaju Ram Shrestha, bhajupurna@gmail.com. 

Regular Sabbath Outreach Programs in Puducottai

Every Sabbath afternoon students are divided into various groups with a staff member to assist them. One group visits the Deaf and Dumb school.  Another group visits the Home for the Aged, to bring cheer by singing songs to them. Still another group goes to the nearby Blind school and shares God’s Word with them. And one more group visits the
prison where young men between the ages of 20-30 are kept for various reasons. I had the opportunity of going with Florence Jayabarathan and 6 final year students of the Engineering college to minister to them on March 9, 2013. They are able to relate with them since they are about the same age. We had to sign our names in a book before we entered. A boy was given the key to a large hall with around 8 benches. Before we went into the room they all hurried to greet Florence Jayabarathan who spoke to each one and enquired about their welfare. She introduced me as her sister and they all gave me a warm welcome. She, sure looked like Mother Teresa as she mingled with them. They were so anxious to tell her everything that happened that week.

Mount Zion School had purchased a volley ball and net for them to play. They all wanted another ball since the ball was worn out. They had once been given a pair of slippers each which they wore before their meeting that evening. And also T shirts to have a volley ball match. They sat on the benches and a couple of our Adventist students sang songs with them. Some were kids’ songs with actions like ‘O be careful little eyes what you see’ etc.  They were not shy to do all the actions. Another student offered prayer. They all knelt down and closed their eyes and bowed their heads too. One student told a story, another gave a health talk, another told the Bible story. Florence talked to them about ways to pray for 5 different types of individuals –family members, teachers, national leaders, sick and needy ones and last for themselves. She encouraged them to pray every day. They wanted me to teach them another action song, so I taught them the song ‘ Touch your fingers, touch your thumbs, touch your wrist, touch your elbows, touch your shoulders, touch your head. God loves you very special.’  I also gave a little talk about how special each one of us is in God’s sight. They listened so attentively to everything that was said that day and responded so well too. It was heart touching when I heard them say how much they had studied before they dropped out of school-- right from 3rd standard to high school.

My observations: It was scary to meet face to face with a murderer, and all the others who had committed various crimes. But knowing God loves them, and they too need to hear about the gospel, it was so heart-warming that Florence Jayabarathan, such a busy lady, not only a wife, a mother, a grand mother, a headmistress of  3000-plus students,
and so involved in myriad other activities both in the school and college, taking time for this ministry which she has started and which is going so well.   Hats off also to the young men from Engineering college who were able to relate so well with them holding their hands and encouraging them to live for Jesus. I am sure this will inspire those who read this article to give of their best to the Master as well. It sure boosted me to do even more than I am already doing right now. I am confident that these ministries will one day bear fruit if not in our time, but for sure in the kingdom of God. May God abundantly bless all who labor unflinchingly for God and His cause.                                                                                              Margaret Nathaniel

Graduation Ceremony: NIU-METAS Adventist Bible Seminary, Jaipur                                                                                 The Graduation Ceremony of NIU-METAS Adventist Bible Seminary Jaipur was solemnized from 26 - 27^th April, 2013. It was indeed an honour and privilege to have the dignitaries from different parts of the Division. M. Wilson,  Director, Family Ministries, SUD; N. D. Solomon, Vice President, Finance, METAS along with S. Eliah, Vice President, METAS; Ezras Lakra, President,;  Robin Ram, Executive Secretary and Attar Singh, Treasurer,  NIU were present to grace the occasion. The presidents and region directors also were present to witness the first  graduation ceremony of the seminary students who will be serving their respective fields.

The grand ceremony began on April 26, 2013 as 27 candidates marched in stride with deep commitment and determination in their hearts and were seated on the reserved area. The candidates  from  humble  background were selected by  local  administration  to be trained  and motivated for  21  months to  shoulder the responsibility in the  Lord’s  vineyard.  Parents of the graduating candidates  also were present along with the members of Jaipur church, to witness the program.

Ezras Lakra, president,NIU delivered a message  during vespers  and  challenged  the fresh  graduates  to go into the  field  and  finish   Lord’s  work. He  highlighted  the  fact  that more trained  workers are required as  there is  growing and  constant  demand from the  field. M. Wilson, director SUD, delivered the message during divine service for baccalaureate ceremony. During commencement ceremony, M. Wilson gave remarks on graduation.  Dr. Bharat Singh, a lay member also addressed the graduates. Umesh Nag, seminary director presented the candidates and N. D. Solomon awarded diplomas. Special awards were given by L. D. Paul, formerpresident, MBS.          S. Eliah gave charge to the graduates. The dedicatory prayer was offered by Malkiah A. Perus, director, Paradise lifestyle centre as 27 graduates were launched into the Lord’s vineyard. Madhya Bharat Section  expresses its  sincere thanks  to the  leaders of Southern Asia Division,  M. S. Jeremiah, president  & CEO  METAS for sponsorship  and leaders of Northern India Union along with donors for  their support. 

Savita Chand, Director Communication

Vennela Spreads Light in the City of Hyderabad

Adventist Media Centre in Pune is producing FM programs for the city of Hyderabad.  The program entitled Vennela which means moonlight is being aired in the FM 101.3 in the city of Hyderabad between 5:30pm to 5:45pm every day.   On 20-3-2013, Edison Samraj, Director of AMC was invited by the top officials of the Cultural department of Andhra Pradesh state to receive the Honor for the meaningful segments produced for the Vennela programs.  A colorful program was arranged in Ravindra Bharathi, Cultural center in the city of Hyderabad. The guest included the cross section of the society. Akkineni Nageshwar Rao, famous cine actor and famous cine lyric writer C. Narayan Reddy were the notable people among the guests.   The Program Vennela is being received well by the people of Hyderabad.  It is well appreciated for its content and valuable suggestion in the field of family and health and other social concerns addressed in the programs.  The program is becoming a bridge to connect the church with secular world. Please continue to pray for the success of the program.

N. Ashok Kumar, Producer  FM, Vennela Program.

                                                              OBITUARY 

Shanti Singh

Shanti was born in Dharampur, Uttar Pradesh on March 2,1943. She  had  her schooling at Seventh-day Adventist School, Roorkee. She married Pastor Babu Singh on June 19, 1962 and actively assisted her husband in the evangelism work. Later in 1973 she started working as a teacher in the Elementary School at Dehradun where  her husband  pastored  the church. Both of them served the Lord in Patna, and Roorkee also. After   retirement they settled at Indore. She died of  stroke on February 4, 2013. Shanti  Singh  leaves  behind her  loving  husband, two  sons,  two  daughters, two daughters in -law,  two  sons in- law, seven grand children and  a great granddaughter. Her contribution to the church and the family is reminisced.                                                                                                                        Savita Chand, Communication Director, Madhya Bharat Section

Vinod David Kamble

Vinod was born to David Abaji & Sindu Kamble on17th April, 1957 in Pune. His early education was at Hume McHenry school at Salisbury park and he pursued higher education in Spicer College and master's in Pune university. He worked as a teacher in Hume McHenry, Lasalgoan and Surat schools a n d later became headmaster in Surat. In 1982-83 joined the government defense service he and He fell ill on 30th March was rushed to hospital.   On 7^th April 2013 he breathed his last. He is survived by his mother, wife and children. We hope to meet him on the resurrection morning.

Vacation  Bible School: Teacher  Training  Workshop                  Bangalore  Metro  Conference

A Vacation Bible School Teacher Training Workshop was held at Bangalore in Central Tamil Church, Spencer Road, on March 25, 2013.   The children’s ministries teachers and pastors from all churches in Bangalore were present. The presence of the officers and department directors of the conference and union was a source of inspiration for all who attended the program. Deborah F.Samraj, Asst. director, children’s ministries, SUD was the resource personnel. She trained the participants in various sessions on ‘Story Telling’, ‘Arts and Crafts’, ‘Creative Singing’, ‘Bible Lessons’, ‘Health Talks’, ‘Bible Games, and ‘Conclusion Ceremony’  for Vacation Bible Schools.  The teachers took part in the workshop and gained practical knowledge to conduct VBS effectively. The workshop was informative and inspiring. The delegates were blessed and motivated by all the spiritual events conducted exclusively for children’s ministry.  We hope and pray that those little ones for whom we minister unto, may be taught to fear the Lord, and have closer walk with the Lord and also proclaim the truth to the world.                                                                                                         Deborah Samraj

Azamnagar School, Belguam

Path Finders Club and Baptism program

The Seventh-day Adventist High School, Azamnagar, Belguam organized the Path Finders  Week end on 21-23, September 2012 under the leadership of Dennis Mariraj, school youth director. Th John Joseph,  section youth director encouraged the club by helping to organize various activities throughout the school  year.  Thyagraj David,  youth director, SCIU inaugurated the club on 21^st September,  2012. The youth club organized various activities such as first aid, self defense mechanism  and drill. The school invited the inspector fire brigades of Belguam city to demonstrate their program. This department brought fire machine and 12 assistants to demonstrate various activities connected to fire brigades which was very colourful. On 22^nd September 2012, 13 youth accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour and were baptized. Azamnagar school and Vadagaon school  had  a combined Sabbath worship on 23^rd September 2012.                                                                                                                                                                Mathew Philip, Principal, Azamnagar School,

Southern Asia  Division  Mid- year Committee May 19-22, 2013                                                           Nomination Committee  Report

Associate  Secretary,                      SUD                                       P H Paulson

 Health Ministries Director            SUD                                       Franklin Samraj

 Ministerial Association                   SUD                                       Daniel Devadas

 General Vice President                 SUD                                       Ch Victor Sam                                                                                       

Children’s  Ministry  Director             SUD                                       Ch Victor Sam

 Executive Secretary                        SW IU                                    P A Varghese

 President                                            ECIU                                      M Wilson

 Treasurer                                            ECIU                                      Pilli Edward

Welcome!!!

We want  to extend  a sincere and warm  welcome to the new personnel who joined Southern Asia Division to strengthen the work in the Division. We are glad that  William Mack and his wife Nancy (daughter of Pr. & Mrs. W H Mattison ) joined  Southern Asia Division to carry out their ministry on behalf of  the “Adventist Child India”.  They have already started their work enthusiastically with commitment to accomplish their goal as they mentioned in ACI Newsletter, “to work tirelessly to ensure the children derive maximum benefit from the generous donations”.  Nancy says, “We have been married 25 years, and after raising three children, decided to leave everything behind in the United States and live in India in order to better assist the ‘Adventist Child India’ effort. We love the Lord and feel we are doing His will to help the most precious of His creation”. We assure you all the support we can give you for accomplishing your goal in this Division of ours.  May God be with you and lead you through is our prayer.                                                               T P Kurian, Editor, Southern Asia Tidings

Launch of FM Radio “SPICE” Broadcast By Air Bangalore, Karnataka

The efforts of  Edison Samraj,  AMC Director, Pune  bore fruit on April 8, 2013 when the launch of F M Radio “SPICE” Broadcast by Air took place in Bangalore. Several people from all walks of life had the privilege to witness this program. Edison gave a brief description as to how the F M Radio program evolved and how the program should go on. The chief guest, Jothi Anbiah, vice president , SUD emphasized how God used different means of communication at different times to convey His message to His people. T  P Kurian, Director,  Communication, SUD acknowledged

different people who worked towards  accomplishing “Launch of FM Radio “SPICE” Broadcast by air. We need to acknowledge Pr. Sharath  Khandagale for producing program for April, 2013.

 The  presence of SCIU officers , BMC officers, department directors, hospital administrators, Bangalore school administrators, Asian Aid officer, auditors, prominent lay people, pastors and guests gave encouragement to all of us.

Special Note:

 Program Aired by                                                             All India Radio

 On Monday , Tuesday & Wednesday                      04:45 to 5:00pm

 Frequency                                                                          101.3

                                                                                                                                                                                                             D Jayadev, director, communication, SCIU

 Medical Dispensary in Eastern Sikkim

 It is a great joy to hear that Gospel Out reach-USA has funded to build two rooms for rural health ministry in Eastern Sikkm. The land was donated by brother Udip and Ambika Thapa, the dedicated laymen of Sikkim. The dispensary was inaugurated by Beverly Thomson, GO-USA director in the presence of GO-USA officials; J M Kujur, president, NBS; PK Thamsang, director, Hill circle/ Health department along with a host of believers of Sikkim. Sikkim is dominated by Buddhist  majority  and gospel ministry is not easy as those in other Indian states. Through medical ministry, it is possible to lead hundreds of people to the foot of Jesus Christ. There are many people blessed by this dispensary and now we are able to make cordial public relations as good neighbours and able to visit them door to door to share the good news of our Lord Jesus’ soon coming. Previously , in Sikkim Adventists were considered as a new foreign religion that brings confusion among the people. Other Christian communities and village head man were confused about a bunch of people worshipping God on the Seventh-day where as others are worshipping on Sunday. Now that attitude is changed after seeing the good work done through our dispensary here. Now the people acknowledge Adventist believers as excellent bunch of people having disciplined life style.

The main mission of this dispensary is to win souls for Christ and teach them health messages as taught by E G White to keep our body clean till Jesus’ second coming because it is the temple of God and we are His stewards. Many people from around the village come to this dispensary for emergency first aid and other medical needs. The believers of Sikkim want to thank Beverly Thomson and officials of GO-USA for finding funds for the construction of this 2 room dispensary. Thanks to NBS, NIU and SUD officers for your co-operation, prayer and support.

Appeal to all well wishers:   This dispensary is not well equipped and needs support to facilitate basic emergency medical aid. We will appreciate your kind help towards improving the condition of this dispensary. Kindly contact by e-mail: sdasikkim@rediffmail.com or jmkujur@rediffmail.com  

North Bengal Section conducts Sabbath School Training Program On May 27, 2013 more than 75 delegates came from different parts of North Bengal and Bhutan to attend a Sabbath school training program at Falakata, North Bengal section campus. It was a whole day training program. The resource personnel were R.P Singh, Director SS/PM, NIU; JM Kujur, President, NBS; P K Tamsang and Esther Kujur, departmental directors. They taught the delegates teaching methodology techniques to teach and win souls for Christ. Other topics were

‘How to make class interesting to the audience and interact with them—two way teaching method’; ‘Role and Importance of Sabbath School in Adventist Church’; ‘Sabbath School in out- reach ministry’, Usage of Pictorial Aid’; ‘Classification of Sabbath School classes’. Each topic was presented in an attractive way that the delegates were blessed and they promised to do their best to win more souls for Christ by following what they have learned in the training program. Thanks to all who supported to conduct a Sabbth school training program here in NBS.                                               PK Tamsang, director, communication

 Adventist International Power Award:Mumbai

On 6th June 2013, Adventist International Power Award was organized by Adventist Media Centre under the leadership of Edison Samraj, director, AMC at Taj Hotel, Mumbai. It was a very unique function conducted in honor of Ben Carson, the renowned neurosurgeon of John Hopkins hospital, USA. Ben Carson is a Seventh-day Adventist and he acknowledges that all his skill and capability are gifts from God Almighty. The audience was elite nationals from the Mumbai city, Press reporters from CNN, Hope Channel and selected members from Adventist circle. Mahesh Zagade, Food Drug and Association commissioner of Maharashtra government was the chief guest. At the beginning Edison Samraj welcomed the guests as well as the audience, after which Philip Virathan, Consultant, PuneAdventistHospital offered opening prayer. Ben Carson was introduced by Calvin Joshua, president, Oriental Watchman Publishing House, Pune. Ben Carson made a heart touching presentation on his “Adventures in Neurosurgery”. He described how his hands were used by God to save lives, especially Siamese twins whose heads were joined together. The audience sat dumbfound as he described his efforts to save the lives of little ones, with the help of power point presentation. Amazingly God uses him to reveal His power. “Gifted Hands” Ben Carson's book was reprinted as “Herald of Health-Carson Special” by OWPH and the release of the same was done by Calvin Joshua offering the first copy to Ben Carson. All the guests received a copy of it. Along with the Carson Special, OWPH has released a mega magazine in Marathi, “Arogyadeep Heart Special”. The first copy was offered to Mahesh Zagade, the government officer of Maharashtra.

11 awards across the seven categories which covered sectors of health care, sports and social work, hospitality, technology, education, HR and administration were conferred upon each one of them. The youngest was a 6 year girl, Sanskriti Wankhede, who won the Asian championship in chess at the age of 4. Among Adventists were the following: Praveen Bob – Administrator and CEO of Simla Sanitarium for community based services for rural healthcare in Himachel Pradesh; Michel Waidante – director, Media  World for his dedication, diligent work and contribution  towards the Seventh-day Adventist Church; Jacob  Prabhakar, director of Ruby Nelson Hospital, for his record breaking cataract surgery; and lifetime achievement award to Philip Virathan –CMO, Adventist Hospital. Awards were given away by Ben Carson. Ben Carson was conferred award by Calvin Joshua and Edison Samraj. At the end of the program, Jacob Prabhakar offered closing prayer. A fellowship dinner was served, during  which there was ample time for all the Adventists to interact with the guests and others who came from outside, especially medical personnel had the opportunity to interact with Ben Carson. Altogether it was a wonderful gathering where Adventist faith and its mission were projected before the elite group of Mumbai nationals.

 Ramani Kurian, Asst. Director, Communication, SUD

Editorial: T P Kurian

Are we not the ‘repairer of the breach’?

Isaiah 58:12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places; thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of paths to dwell in. The work specified in this verse is the special work God requires His people to do. It is a work of God’s own appointment. With the work of advocating the commandments of God and repairing the breach that has been made in the law of God, we are to mingle compassion for suffering humanity. We are to show supreme love to God; we are to exalt His memorial, which has been trodden down by unholy feet; and with this, we are to manifest mercy, benevolence, and the tenderest pity for the fallen race. “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” As a people we must take hold of this work. Love revealed for suffering humanity gives significance and power to the truth. – {ML 224.2} Ancient pathways are trodden by the so called people of God in the past. Now true followers of Jesus are in the verge of restoring the breach. As we study the growth of Adventist Church from the beginning, we see it was a part of the movement with a motto of revival and reformation. In the ages past the people who studied the Bible has become part of the repairers of the breach. In our time, the manner of rebuilding breach is to teach others about Sabbath keeping. The Sabbath keepers are the repairers of the breach of the present age. Where are the people who have had light from heaven to see that a breach has been made in the law of God? – {4BC 1152.3} In Revelation, John says, “The temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament.” Revelation 11:19. John saw in vision the Lord’s people looking for His coming and searching for truth. As the temple of God was opened unto His people, the light of the law of God, which was in the ark, shone forth. Those who receive this light are brought to view in the proclamation of the third angel’s message. – {4BC 1152.4} This angel is seen flying in the midst of heaven, “saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb.... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” – {4BC 1152.5} This is the people that are repairing the breach in the law of God. They see that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment has been supplanted by a spurious sabbath, a day that has no sanction in the word of God. Amid great opposition, they become loyal to their God, and take their position under the standard of the third angel (Manuscript 48, 1900). – {4BC 1152.6} As the end approaches, the testimonies of God’s servants will become more decided and more powerful, flashing the light of truth upon the systems of error and oppression that have so long held the supremacy. The Lord has sent us messages for this time to establish Christianity upon an eternal basis, and all who believe present truth must stand, not in their own wisdom, but in God; and raise up the foundation of many generations. These will be registered in the books of heaven as repairers of the breach, the restorers of paths to dwell in. We are to maintain the truth because it is truth, in the face of the bitterest opposition. God is at work upon human minds; it is not man alone that is working. The great illuminating power is from Christ; the brightness of His example is to be kept before the people in every discourse (Letter 1f, 1890). – {4BC 1152.7} After knowing the fourth commandment has been replaced by the Sunday worship, each one has the responsibility of keeping it truthfully and honestly and not to be a nominal keeper. We, as Seventh-day Adventists, should be standing for the principles found in Jeremiah 6:16: Thus saith Jehovah, Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way; and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls: but they said, We will not walk [therein]. Often we find nominal Christians follow the latter part of the verse after knowing the truth from the Bible. Time has come to experience revival and reformation in our life, being practical in Christian living. May the Lord bless us to gain rich experience practically to be the “repairer of the breach” and make everyone ready for His soon return.

International Institute of Christian Ministries (IICM): Community Services & Urban Ministry Certification Program

 Pune,Spicer Memorial College April 9 - 15, 2013

Sabbath School Personal Ministries of Southern Asia Division conducted the International Institute of Christian Ministries (IICM) Community Services and Urban Ministry Certification Program (IICM CS&UMCP) in Pune at Spicer Memorial College from April 9 to 15, 2013. This Community Services & Urban Ministry Certification Program is the first such training program conducted in Southern Asia Division. Justus Devadas, president of Spicer Memorial College, gave a warm welcome to the GC and SUD Personnel with a bouquet of roses. After welcoming all the delegates, he cordially invited them and resource personnel for dinner at his residence on Sunday night, April 14. The selected 60 delegates from all over India--lay persons, workers, union SSPM directors, and SMC volunteers--attended the IICM CS & UMCP, which prepared them for more effective wholistic ministry in their communities. The morning devotions were presented by the assigned delegates. Their inspiring devotional messages were spiritual manna to all. The 100% attendance was recorded every day. The delegates were equipped with notes and PowerPoint slides of the modules that were presented, writing pads, pens, and badges. They were seated by unions in their assigned seats. The hall was well equipped with mini projector, white screen and a mike. The hanging banner showed the official logos and welcome notes to guests and delegates. The following resource personnel: May-Ellen Colon, SSPM Assistant Director, General Conference; Gaspar Colon, Chairman of the Religion Department, Washington Adventist University, USA; Franklin Samraj, Director Human Resource Management, SUD; Immanuel Durairaj, Professor; Y Jeyam, Vice President, Financial Administration, SMC; Rafael Garcia, Director ADRA India and Hidayat Masih, SUD SSPM, had performed mightily to educate and to share their personal experiences with their assigned topics. Most of the modules were covered by May-Ellen Colon and Gaspar Colon. Both of them attempted to learn the delegates’ names to address them easily all through their teaching periods which developed confidence and intimacy in the hearts of the delegates. Below are the IICM Community Services & Urban Ministry Certification Program (IICM CS&UMCP) modules presented by resource personnel: *IICM CORE MODULES: CR 01 Spiritual Gifts; CR 02 Principles of Personal Christian Witness; CR 03 Principles of Christian Leadership & Church Growth; CR 04 How to Teach Basic Adventist Doctrines and *IICM COMMUNITY SERVICES & URBAN MINISTRY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM CURRICULUM: CS 01 Theological, Historical and Ethical Concepts of Holistic Ministry; CS 02 Community Assessment and Social Capital; CS 03 Program Development & Strategic Planning; CS 04 Performance Measurement for Effective Ministry; CS 05 Technical Aspects of Community Services Ministry; CS 05a Volunteer Engagement/Human Resources ; CS 05b Finances & Accountability; CS 05c Fundraising Fundamentals; CS 05d Grant Proposal Writing; CS 05e Risk Management & Legal Issues; CS 05f Centers of Influence (Life Hope Centers); CS 05g Health Evangelism Resources; CS 06 Organizational Leadership and Team Development; CS 07 Ministering Across Cultures ; CS 08 Urban Mission; CS 09 Essentials of Church Disaster Preparedness and Response (an Elective). The delegates were divided into seven groups and sent out to do a walking survey in nearby (Aundh, Pimpry, Karkee, Lakshmi Street) neighborhoods. The public confronts their life fragily and fraily, lacking a connection with God. To reach different kinds of people in the community—educated, uneducated, children, teens, adults, middle-aged, old aged, poor or rich—was a challenge to the groups. The survey groups took notes of observed needs and ministry ideas as they walked through their assigned communities. They fulfilled their requirements by presenting their valuable experiences in the morning of the next day. It was quite fascinating to note their application of what they had learnt throughout their training program! The SMC Cafeteria served the tastiest manna to nourish the delegates. They enjoyed a very special delicious dinner at the President’s residence on April 14th Sunday night. This training program ended with awarding of certificates and photo sessions.

The GC Personnel were gifted with a token of love in appreciation of their untiring performance by the Southern Asia Division SSPM Department. It is our sincere prayer that this Community Services & Urban Ministry curriculum will be helpful in equipping and enabling God’s church members to live out the ministry of Jesus in their communities, as they prepare the way for His second coming. “Social action is a living witness to our soon-returning Lord. When we take a stand for justice, compassion, and healing, we demonstrate the values of the coming Kingdom.” (Keys to Adventist Community Services, p. 6). The delegates departed to their home towns with a heavy stack of knowledge and wisdom, also with the studied material files, stored pen drive, bag, and tee shirt. They also enthusiastically pledged to launch this training program in their unit in the near future so that their local church members will be enabled to better serve their communities in Jesus’ name. *For more information on IICM, go to www.sabbathschoolpersonalministries.org, and click on Personal Ministries and then on International Institute of Christian Ministries. All the IICM modules, including this Community Services & Urban Ministry Curriculum, are found at this location. Hidayat Masih, SSPM Director, SUD Jeevan Shailee Clinic Inaugurated On June 23, 2013, Jeevan Shailee (Life style) clinic was inaugurated in Bangalore by R. John, president, Southern Asia Division. Gordon Christo, executive secretary, SUD; John Christo, medical director, SDA Medical Centre; Cyril Monthero, president, SCIU; David Keeler, director, Helping Hands Welfare Society; Beulah Fernandez, director, Sunshine Children’s Home; Jothi Anbiah, vice president, SUD; and Pierson David, secretary, Medical Trust were also present on the occasion.

The Jeevan Shailee clinic is situated amidst the natural surroundings of the Sunshine school campus, Kalkere, Bangalore. A department of lifestyle medicine was started by SDA Medical Centre in Bangalore two years ago. This was done in response to the alarming rise in lifestyle related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obesity, coronary heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Jeevan Shailee clinic will cater to the primary health care needs of the community and also address the problem of lifestyle diseases by promoting a healthy lifestyle in harmony with the Adventist philosophy of health. Jeevan Shailee clinic provides the following services: medical consultations, nutritional counselling, wellness coaching, health screening, exercise therapy, hydrotherapy, and massage therapy. In addition, community outreach activities are being conducted: health expos, Breathe Free Smoking Cessation Programs; seminars on how to reverse diabetes and improve heart health; weight loss and stress management programs. The team at the clinic presently consists of Dr. Narendra Rao, Dr. Daisy Rani Rao, R. Lamana (massage and hydrotherapist), Mr. Ray Fernandez (nurse). For further details of Jeevan Shailee Clinic see www.jeevanshailee.org Dr. Narendra Rao

A new Congregation in Bommanahalli

 Adventist Media Centre that spreads the gospel through Radio Ministry also sends the Radio speakers for public evangelism. N. Ashok Kumar, Speaker/ Producer for Kannada Program in AMC conducted a series of evangelistic meetings in Bangalore. With the help of the leaders from Bangalore Metro Conference, meetings were held at Bommanahalli, among Kannada speaking people. During the ground work Balraj, Surendra, and Ravichandra contacted a Pentecostal church pastor who came forward to help them with arranging the meeting place. He was convinced of the truth as he studied from Peter Halemane, Ministerial secretary, SCIU who invited him for a Bible study. The meetings were conducted from on 2nd June to 8th June 2013. Everyday about 30-40 people attended the meetings. On 14th June, the Pentecostal pastor took his stand for the Sabbath truth and came forward for baptism. On 22nd June seven precious souls from the same group were baptized as they took stand for the Sabbath truth. Pr. Jyothi Anbaiah, who was the speaker during the divine service, inspired the newly converted people with a thought provoking sermon. The newly established group is worshipping in the same pastor’s house for time being. We want to appreciate the support of Bangalore Metro Conference and South Central India Union. We want the readers to pray for the newly established congregation. N. ASHOK KUMAR. KANNADA SPEAKER/PRODUCER, AMC Hope India—

Passion for life

Dear Friends, We bring you greetings from Hope India! Since our inception two years ago, we have been on a God-led journey and have been able to produce many programs. In order to compete with other commercial television channels in terms of viewership, we must increase awareness of our channel through various mediums. We would like to encourage you to share the given below links with your families, friends and relatives, either through the internet or orally. By sharing these links, you have increased our potential viewership through these mediums. We would also encourage your feedback, comments and questions and encourage you to pass on the same to your families and friends. We understand that we are unable to reach the entire Adventist Church unless we receive your help in passing on this information to those around you and even at your Churches and institutions. You can share these links on your personnel as well as official Face book pages. http://www.hopetvindia.org/ https://www.facebook.com/HopeTvIndia http://www.youtube.com/user/HopeTVIndia Thanking you. Yours Sincerely, Team Hope India.

Bangalore Metro Conference: 2nd Constituency

Bangalore Metro Conference held its second constituency from February 7-9, 2013 at Spencer Road School, Bangalore. The theme chosen was “We Still Believe”. Meetings began with a message from Cyril Monthero, president, SCIU who inspired the delegates to hold on to the faith till the coming of Jesus, our Lord. The keynote address was given by V R Sukumaran, president, BMC. The session was declared open by Cyril Monthero. Approval of reports of sub-committee was given by Suresh Daniel, executive secretary, BMC. 8th morning session started with a devotional message from Gordon Christo, executive secretary, SUD. Vesper message was given by Jothi Anbiah, vice president, SUD. R. John, president, SUD took the congregation into divine hour, reminding all of us the roots of SDA church. The highlight of the constituency program was the ordination of the following to the ministry: Suresh Daniel, T. Lazarus, Jacob Samuel, Franklin Samuel, David Nesakumar, Mahadevan, Sabu Wilson, Andrew Doddamani & Anbudurai Albert. The second constituency business session ended with a message of consecration by L C. Colney, vice president, SUD. Nominating committee report Suresh Daniel President T. Lazarus Executive Secretary Chandrasekar Treasurer James Kennedy Director, Ministerial, Global & Stewardship Devanesan Samuel Director, SS/PM, Health & Temperance, Children’s Ministries Jeffrey Paul Director, Youth/ Home, family & Communication N, Stanislaus Evangelist T. Lazarus, executive secretary, BMC

INAUGARATION AND CONSTITUENCY MEETING OF MANIPUR CONFERENCE

The Adventist Message entered in Manipur through Literature. The First converts were Ninghei Luikham and his eldest son Benjamin Luikham in 1952. After thirty years Manipur Section was formed in March 1982. Now, after 30 years Manipur Conference was formed and Inaugurated on December 7, 2012 by R John, president, Southern Asia Division. Robert Clive, treasurer and Jothi Anbiah, vice president, SUD also attended the session. The theme was “TO God Be the Glory”. The gathering of the delegates during the meeting was richly blessed through the sermons of the officers from Division and Union. As a matter of fact, the glory of God was manifested during the function. The leaders of the newly inaugurated conference were nominated unanimously. We are grateful to the believers and acknowledge their deep concern and support for the churches in the conference. Over 190 delegates attended the first Manipur conference constituency meeting. Conference Officers: President - Barnabas Zimik Secretary - Graceson Kamei Treasurer - Michael Sangma Departmental Directors: B. Zimik - Public Relation and Religious Liberty Graceson Kamei - Ministerial Department Michael Sangma - Trust, Risk Management J. G. Shimray - Family Ministries Khanmi Luikham - Publishing, Stewardship Joanne Wann Zimik - Education. Women Ministries, Shepherdess W. Hulang - Youth, Children Ministries Adahe Chara - Communication & Health Ministries J. L Golmei - Sabbath School, Personal Ministries The Seventh-day Adventist Church Chingmeirong, Imphal was dedicated on 8th December, 2012 by Jothi Anabiah, vice president, SUD. On 9th King’s Way English School New Building Block with 5 Class rooms was inaugurated by Robert Clive, treasurer, SUD. Adahe Chara Communication Department & Health Ministries.

1000 Missionary Movement in India

Bae Jinsung and his wife, Haeok, a young friendly couple from Korea with their two kids, Saint and David, are seen moving around the Division campus enthusiastically. They are engaged in the great task of training missionaries for Jesus Christ. Bae Jinsung meets with the young people and encourages them to be a part of this great missionary movement. Sometimes his face looks so burdened that young people are not so much willing to join the 1000 missionary movement as he expects. Nevertheless, he doesn’t lose hope. He, with his team mates from our country, is doing a marvelous work to help the youth of our country to be good missionaries for Christ. Haeok, his wife, is a great support to his mission. She made friends with every person on the division campus. She invited all the children in Jeevan Jyothy English church and offered them classes on recorder. It is so amazing to see our youngsters learned the lessons so easily and they present their talents in recorder music to enrich the sacred atmosphere of our church during worship.

1000 missionary movement program, one of the largest and most successful missionary training centers in the world, originated in Asia Pacific Division under the leadership of Jairong Lee,(then dean of AIIAS Theological Seminary) now President, North Asia Pacific Division, in 1991. Gradually this movement was branched out to different parts of the world and it came to India in 2007. Ju min ho, the director of head quarters through the missionaries Shahin Pilli and Choy Kusik, was able to branch out to our country. With the support of Justus Devadas, president, Spicer College, Pune, the 1st batch training started at Spicer College. Ever since this program is on the move and several missionaries had been trained and sent out to their respective places to share the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, devoting at least one full year of their lives for Christ. Now Bae Jinsung and his family along with Amrutha Rao and Jithendra Kumar are doing a wonderful work here in India. Bae visits mission fields all over India and encourages youngsters to join in, to be a missionary for the Lord. Presently they have established a new center in Sampathnagar, which is located near the division office, Hosur. Two batches completed the training program. On August 10, 2013 the second batch of 12 had the graduation program at division headquarters church, Hosur. This is a great opportunity for our youth to get involved and become a missionary for the Lord so that the gospel commission may be fulfilled and our Lord will return soon to take His people home. 1000 Missionary Movement India has a goal and vision to produce 100 missionaries every year to fulfill the commission of our Lord Jesus. Aid Program They provide scholarship to poor students with the help of ADRA Korea and other sponsors. They also have planted the first E-library at Hasrgundigi in North Karnataka Section. Their main objective is to provide better educational environment in rural areas so that the people living there will have a better way of life. If interested, contact: Bae Jinsung, C/O Southern Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists, Post Box 2, HCF, Hosur 635110, Tamil Nadu. India. Tel. (91) 94-8923-4159 / (91)76-6751-5344 / (91)95-5130-5580/ 098-9419-2892 e-mail: 1000misionaryindia@gmail.com.  Ramani Kurian, Asst. communication director,SUD.

 Treasurers’ Council at Mysore

It was a memorable experience for the treasurers from the Division, Unions and vice president for finance of the college institutions as they attended the treasurers’ council’ in Mysore at Pai Vista Hotel on July 9 & 10, 2013, along with their spouses. The meeting commenced with an inaugural speech by Robert Clive, treasurer, SUD on the ‘Role of a Spouse- The Abigail Factor’. He compared the treasurer’s spouse to Abigail who was aggressive, beautiful, initiator, generous, action oriented, intelligent and let-go (understanding). He thanked them for playing the role of Abigail and being supportive to the work that their husbands were entrusted with. He also emphasized that being God’s master piece, we needed to ask, seek and knock so that we would be able to fulfill the purpose that God had given us. After the inaugural speech all the treasurers were then welcomed & felicitated with beautiful shawls by South Central India Union officers and thanked the treasury group for choosing their territory to hold the treasurers’ council. The South Karnataka officers also welcomed the treasury group with flowers. The two days were packed with several valuable thought provoking & need based sessions covering various important topics which were covered by Robert Clive, Selvin Moorthy, Enoch Manickom, Leroy Samuel and V. P Singh. Paul Douglas, GCAS Director, General Conference and his associate Sandra Grice were also present and they took sessions on ‘GCAS cost sharing concept’. There were also updates from all the Unions on their strategic plans as of March 2013. The spouses had separate interactive & valuable sessions on health and had other activities that kept them busy and happy. The ladies were also handed out surprise gifts that made them glad, which in turn, made the men happier. On behalf of the women, Neetu Attar Singh thanked the division treasurer for inviting them to be a part of the council and also shared that they all had a good time together. Towards the end of the last day, a trip was organized to visit Mysore Palace and the Brindavan Gardens which ended cheerfully. The accommodation was great and comfortable and so was the food. On the whole the whole event was well organized and it went on very smoothly and profitably for all those who attended. Our sincere thanks to Robert Clive and his team for organizing such an event. When & where will be the next one hahahhh  Riches Christian,

SUD Local Church Children Care Co-ordinators’ Seminar: North East India Union

Jemima Sangma, NEIU Children Ministries Director, conducted a seminar for the local church children care co-ordinators on 26 & 27th February, 2013 at Garo Section Premises. More than 60 delegates from all over Garo Hills attended the seminar. She dealt with the topics ‘how to take care of the children’, ‘ how to teach Bible stories effectively’. She encouraged the children care co-ordinators to introduce art and craft classes in the children’s Sabbath school to have more participation of the children. The delegates were inspired and energized by attending the seminar which was informative. She used power point presentations. Garo Section children ministries director distributed memory cards with 53 new songs recorded and a mini player to each delegate to teach new songs to the children for a whole year. Today’s young generation is the future of our church. We should develop them in the right manner to be efficient workers in the cause of God to spread the gospel of salvation to the world around. At the close, some games were taught and also some group singing was organized. Everyone who attended was blessed and returned home to do their best to care for the children’s Sabbath schools.

Women’s Convention at Dadenggre

Women from all the churches and companies in Garo Section held a women’s convention at Dadenggre from March 27-31, 2013. More than 200 delegates attended the meeting. The theme was “Arise and Shine”. Betty Linghdoh, union women’s ministries director was the resource personnel. The messages inspired the women and all of them were blessed. During the convention they had a Jamboo sale arranged by the women. Everyone participated in the sale program and they were able to raise some funds for the Dorcas Society of the church. They also had cooking classes where they learnt to prepare good vegetarian meals. They also learnt how to make candles from the ordinary wax. The section women’s ministries director encouraged the women who had best sales by giving them prizes. It was a joyful occasion for the women of Garo section for all of them felt blessed richly by this convention.

Stewardship Seminar in Tura

A section wide stewardship seminar was held in Tura section premises from April 5-7, 2013. 75 delegates from churches and companies from all over Garo Hills, Khasi Hills and Assam border attended the seminar. K. Archite, union stewardship director was the chief guest. He admonished the delegates to live in close connection with the Lord. He told that stewardship meant not only giving tithes and offerings, but life style of each Christian that would draw him/her closer to the Lord. He also urged the delegates to be faithful to the Lord and to dedicate time, talent, and wealth to the Lord for spreading three angels’ message around. The delegates were motivated to go to their respective places and encourage the believers to be honest stewards of the Lord. Barthon Momin, communication director

Adventist Chaplaincy Workshop

Adventist chaplaincy ministry department conducted workshops in two places from July 21 to 28, 2013. The first workshop was held at Vellore Adventist Church. Vijay Kumar, president , Vellore Adventist College sponsored the entire program and also presented a good computer bag to all the delegates. The main resource person was Pastor Gary Councel, for USA chaplain. He was a colonel in the US army and worked as a chaplain. He is a man of rich experience in Chaplaincy ministry c The second meeting was conducted at Falakata from July 24 to 28, 2013. Falakatta was hot and humid. Meetings were conducted from 8 am to 6 pm. In spite of the hot weather, Gary Councel engaged the delegates with his powerful messages through out. Delegates were provided with a pen drive with all his lecture material. All the delegates were greatly blessed from his inspiring lectures. What a difference Southern Asia can make, if all the schools and hospitals in India have a well qualified chaplain who will give counsels and guidance to students and workers there! The chaplain in the hospital may follow up the patients and give instruction for their spiritual well being. May God grant us wisdom and willing mind to venture as a church to train more chaplains who will be in the army, and in the cities to look after the students in secular colleges and universities and also in all schools, colleges and hospitals. Lalchansanga Colney, Director, Chaplaincy Ministry,SUD

 Vacation Bible School Jalahally Church

During summer Jallahally church members decided to conduct a Vacation Bible School for the children in the locality. They gathered the VBS materials from Bangalore Metro Conference and started the VBS program on 2nd May, 2013. On the first day about 100 children turned up for the program. Day after day their number increased because the children who attended the first day, gave big publicity all over the place. 2 teachers from the school and 4 church members took initiative and cared for the children during the VBS. Sponsors came forward to provide snacks to the children. BMC officers also supported by their visit. They were happy when they saw such a large group was participating enthusiastically in every activity of the program. They displayed all what they have learnt from the VBS in the church on Sabbath. They were happy and we too were happy. All praise, glory and honor to God and God alone. Devanesan, director, personal ministries, BMC

 School News Week of Prayer: Kollegal School

   Kollegal School conducted a week of prayer from July 2-5 2013. Ronald Margee, ‘Springs of Joy’ Bible Seminary director was the guest speaker. He presented inspiring messages on “Building for Eternity”. He reminded that God wanted each one of His children to have noble character and to walk according to His way. The theme song was, “I will be true precious Jesus….” It was wonderful to see our students and teachers volunteer in presenting melodious songs in praise of God each day. We thank God for marvelously blessing the school, staff and students through this week of prayer. Prem Cyrus, school chaplain

Tuticorin School: Success & Celebration

By God’s immense grace and abundant blessing, 42 year old Tuticorin school is doing well, in spite of the poor infrastructure and bad conditions. In 2011-12 academic year our school scored 100% result with 100% first classes. In 2012-13, J. Venmukhil has scored 490/500, 4th place in Tuticorin district which is the greatest achievement ever made in the history of our school. She was well appreciated by our school for attaining 4th place in the district and state first in Tamil language. She was awarded APC Veerabaku Memorial Award and Salt Merchant Association of Tuticorin Award by the district collector. A special award was given to her for scoring 99/100 in Tamil Language (state first) as well as scoring school first. We, the school staff would like to congratulate her for her hard work and bringing our institution to the lime light. Samson Ramamoorthy, principal.

J J R Nagar Telugu Revival Meetings

By the grace of  God Almighty, we organized a revival meeting in JJR Telugu church from May 24-26, 2013. The meetings were from 6.30—8.30 pm. Around 125 people

attended the meetings regularly and were blessed. G Elisha Rao, Subhavartha TV speaker inspired the congregation with timely messages from the word of God. After listening to the inspiring messages, the believers were spiritually revived and rededicated their lives to Jesus. We thank all those who have assisted us to conduct such a beautiful revival meeting. We also thank Nathaniel for his contribution and Bangalore Metro Conference for their support. All glory and honor be unto our God!

V B Ravi, church pastor, JJ R Nagar Telugu Church

Pastoral Enrichment Seminar: Bangalore Metro Conference

On 27^th May, 2013 the pastoral force of Bangalore Metro Conference gathered at the campus of Indian Social Institute at Bangalore for pastoral enrichment seminar. The deliberations began with an inspiring devotion by M Wilson,SUD based on the book of Joshua. It was followed by thought provoking and pertinent presentations by resource personnel on the following topics:

Church Ordinances and its Implications: M. Wilson

Importance of Personal Devotion in the Life of Pastors: Cyril Monthero, president, SCIU

A Review of our Fundamental Beliefs: Peter Halemane, ministerial secretary, SCIU

Friendship Evangelism: Maywald Jesudas, pastor, English church, Hosur

The  strategic plans of the evangelistic work in BMC was released in the form of a booklet by president Suresh Daniel. The highlight of the seminar was the launching of BMC website (www.bmcsda.org) which was inaugurated by Samuel Thason, treasurer, SCIU. The seminar was concluded by a fitting consecration message by Maywald Jesudas based on the theme “How to Receive the Latter Rain”. It was heart touching to witness the entire group holding their hands and praying together for the unction of the Holy Spirit. It was indeed a day of revival and reformation for all the pastors in BMC.

James Kennedy, ministerial secretary, BMC

Ten Day Prayer Camp Meeting: Mizo Conference

God loves His Church, He does not want us to be invariable, He therefore calls us to move forward and be revived. We received this call through GC and those who respond to it receive blessings abundantly. For the revival and reformation program, the Mizo Conference has organized “Ten day prayer camp” in Aizawl at Helen Lowry School from August 2- 12, 2013. Church members from all over Mizoram has come together to join the prayer camp. From twenty local Churches, 240 members attended the meetings regularly. On August 6, Tuesday night around 400 members had attended the meeting. Five pastors, PL Biakchhawna,  Lalmuansanga Chawngthu, Pu Lalthlamuana,  Saizika and  Rodingliana led the congregation through the revival experience during the camp meeting by inspiring messages. These speakers delivered messages four times a day. Other than preaching, the campers also spent time reading Bible and E G White writings. Counseling and personal prayer were other highlights. Campers were served only one or two potatoes and a few pulses for a whole day. They did not feel hungry since they felt they were fed by the Spirit. Some of the young people vowed to take only water during  the ten day prayer camp. We were delighted to see the enthusiasm of our young people and their thirst for God. Throughout the night they spent time with God in prayer and pleaded with God for outpouring of the Spirit and forgiveness of their sins, after which they felt justified and were rejoicing and singing praises to the Lord Almighty. They also prayed for the sick ones amidst them. Amazingly several of the sick people were healed. One woman who could not raise her (broken) hand prayed for healing and after sometime she could raise her hand to praise God for He healed her amazingly.  A great revival had taken place in the lives of most of the people who attended it. We could feel the presence of God throughout the camp meeting. Eddy, who was a devil worshipper, attended the meeting and was converted by the messages he heard and acknowledged Jesus as His personal Savior and dedicated to serve Him rest of his life. He testified that  he had burned Bibles in order to please Satan. In the camp meeting he declared that God had delivered him and admitted Adventist church as the true remnant church.

On the last day around 750 people, visitors, workers, laymen were present and experienced the working of the Holy Spirit in their lives. All of us were rejoicing and singing praises to the Lord. Finally everyone of us joined hands together and praised God. The meeting ended with the benediction by L C Colony.  

Youth Week Prayer: Division Head Quarters Church, Hosur

The youth department of Jeevan Jyothi church has organized a week of prayer for the youth of the church from 4 to 10^th August, 2013. The speaker, Anbudurai Albert, pastor, Central English church, Bangalore, based His inspiring sermons on the topic “We need the Lord”. Day after day he challenged the enthusiastic youth of our church with various aspects in connection with the topic. “If we go to Him feeling thirsty, Jesus will quench our thirst by providing the living water as how He provided to the Samaritan woman; if you are hungry, He is willing to provide the bread of life. He is the Bread of Life that came from heaven; If you are lost and lonely He will search you and find you out and be with you as a companion in your spiritual journey heavenward; If you feel disconnected, you can go to Him and He will keep you connected and you will be able to bear fruits”.

Jesus says, “I am the wine and ye are the branches: He that abideth in me and I in Him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5.                    

 10^th August, Sabbath, was the culmination of the week of prayer when the young pastor challenged the congregation with the message, “All things are possible” if we put Jesus at the centre of our life. He can relieve us from our lives of sinfulness and make us worthy of eternal life to enjoy that heavenly bliss”.  He illustrated how the dry bones in the valley were brought back to life by the Life Giver (Ezekiel 37: 1-14) and encouraged the congregation to go to Jesus who is waiting to receive each one of us to make us worthy citizens of  the world to come. The youth of the church assisted the speaker to present each day’s message with appropriate illustrations projected on the stage. It was a week of wonderful spiritual experience for all who attended it.

Ramani Kurian, SUD      

Independence Day Celebration: Division Headquarters, Hosur

As usual, the independence day was celebrated on the division campus, Hosur under the leadership of Ravi Shankar, chairman, social committee, SUD. The program started with a prayer by Maywald Jesudas, the church pastor. The color party marched forward with the chief guest, R. Muniraj, retired Thasildar, Hosur to hoist the flag. After which, Ravi Shankar welcomed the chief guest and the audience. After the introductory remarks by

Selvin Moorthy, Under Treasurer, SUD, Sherlyn Daniel, one of the pathfinders, delivered a wonderful patriotic speech and Adley Christian, another pathfinder, recited a patriotic poem. It was interesting that during his speech, the chief guest, a non Adventist, presented a lot of information about Seventh-day Church and its service to the society through schools, colleges and hospitals all over the world and congratulated the church. It was nice to watch the pathfinders of Hosur campus arrayed in their full uniform led by the flag party marching forward in front of the office building. In conclusion, V P Singh, Associate Treasurer, SUD offered the closing prayer. A cultural program followed by games also was organized by the social committee. At the end, a fellowship lunch was served.

Ramani Kurian

Wedding Bells

Dony with Sumi: Dony Franklin s/o G Victor John & Alphonsa Mary and Sumi d/o (Late) Thomson K & Annamma were united in holy matrimony on 28th July, 2013 at Jeevan Jyothi English church, Hosur.

Obituary

Kuttiyil Mathukutty Mathew K M Mathew was born in Konni, Pathanamthitta, Kerala on March 5, 1943 to Kuttiyil George Mathew and Saramma. After his education in Kerala, he joined Spicer College as a staff in the college press in 1960 and worked there until 1970. Then he went to Persian Gulf and worked there. Returning from Gulf, he joined Lowry Memorial College Press. After retirement, he was staying with his wife Achamma Mathew in Bangalore. He developed some medical problems and admitted in Chinmaya Mission Hospital on 11th July and he breathed his last on 14th July, 2013. He leaves behind his wife, children and grand children. We hope to meet him on the day of resurrection.

Sheila Antonio Sheila was born to Mr. &Mrs. Antonio on June 16, 1933. She worked as a staff nurse in Lady Wellington Nursing Home, Chennai. She came to Bangalore in eighties to look after her ailing mother and after her mother’s death she joined her sister, Esther Gallyot in Dubai. She was a right hand to Esther in her ministry to the Lord. She is one of the founder members of Dubai Adventist Church. Sabbaths were a delight for her as the early church in Dubai met and worshipped in her sister Esther’s home. Her ardent love for the Lord and her zeal in spreading the good news were exemplary. Sheila was very much interested in ministering to the children. She gave Bible study to the children and led them to accept Jesus as their personal Savior wherever she stayed. When she returned to India, she became a committed member of Central English church , Bangalore and served the Lord in various capacities. Her heart and soul was outreach. Her concern was for the poor and needy and she sacrificed much for them. She ably looked after Mrs. Quinn, who passed away at 103, until her last. Many other sick persons were blessed by her care. She succumbed to the terminal illness from which she had been suffering for some time, on July 18, 2013 at Bangalore. (Life sketch)

Youth Retreat at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh

April 25 to 28, 2013 I am thrilled to share the report of the successful “Youth Retreat” held at Jeeva Sudha Pastoral Centre, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh during April 25 to 28, 2013. The Theme of the retreat was “DISCOVERING JESUS: THE WAY, THE TRUTH, & THE LIFE”. The goal of the youth retreat is to make optimum use of the potentials of Adventist youth for the glory of God. The focus of youth training is on discipling and mentoring the youth to be vibrant witness for the Lord Jesus Christ. Specific Objectives of Youth Retreat 1.To lift up Jesus and to draw youth to Him 2.To train youth in assisting the local church in its growth 3.To train youth for witnessing in the community. 4.To orient the youth in seeking Adventist education 5.To motivate the youth in perusing career in ministry, pointing out “Spicer” as an option. Fig 1: Priston translating the message for Shreeletha Solomon It was a unique program targeted at rural youth. The youth in urban areas often find several opportunities to attend camps and retreats but not the rural youth. With the best efforts of North Rayalseema Section officers a total of 113 youth- 51 boys and 62 girls participated in the 4-day retreat.

Fig 2: Priston & Jesinth at praise & worship Kurnool is one of the four districts that comprises Rayalseema Region of Andhra Pradesh. Kurnool is the last district entered by Adventist Church. A decade ago there were just three churches in Kurnool district but today Kurnool has 258 churches spread over several villages. Most of these new churches are taken care by Pastors who have as many as 5 to 10 churches to cater. A visit to some of these churches last year brought to my notice that there are several educated and talented youth in the churches but they are not trained to shoulder the church responsibilities. As a youth researcher I was fully aware that if we provide some direction and training mighty things can be achieved through the involvement of youth in our churches. Hence this retreat was planned with the support of officers at North Rayalseema Section, Kurnool and East Central India Union (ECIU) at Hyderabad.

Fig 3: Sam Livingston, from Asian Aid addressing the youth on building their career. Gladstain Jacob, Asst. pastor, Spicer College Church was the main speaker. Narendra Rao and Rani Rao, doctors from Bangalore provided health messages. Kimberly Azelton from Weimar Institute, California shared health remedies. Sam Livingston from Asian Aid encouraged the youth to make Christ the Way, the Truth and the Life. Priston Joshi from Hyderabad made a lasting impact on youth through praise and worship service. Leaders of the North Rayalseema Section led the morning devotion. T Charles representing East Central India Union challenged the youth to live up to Christ’s message. Fig 4: All the resource persons were honoured by North Rayalseema Section leaders As part of the Sabbath program, communion service and feet washing ceremony were organized with a desire to familiarize the service to youth. A social program was arranged on the campus lawn on Sabbath evening bringing out the talents of youth. A special session of “Commitment and Consecration” was conducted by T Charles at the end of the program where the youth were dedicated to the service of the Lord. The entire 4 days program was recorded by “Blessed Hope” Television crew. Fig 5: Youth in full attendance all through the programs In spite of hot summer the youth remained attentive all through the 4 days program. They were self-motivated and eager to learn more about Christ. They showed great interest and actively participated in praise and worship, group discussions and in giving testimonies. It is to the credit of the rural youth that they could make maximum use of the retreat for their own spiritual growth. The youth have requested the organizers to make frequent visits to their churches and to conduct similar programs so that more youth could be benefitted in the villages. If it is God’s will we will certainly want to do more for the rural Adventist youth. Let us not forget that the “youth are not only the future of the church; they are also very much a part of it today! “The youth, if rightly trained, could sway a mighty influence” (Messages to Young People, p.204). I foresee the Rural Adventist Youth (RAY) as a RAY of Hope for Adventist church in future. Fig 6: Dr. Narendra Rao’s health message is translated by John Sundar Rao. I wish to thank Wesley James, Loma Linda University, CA., Surendra Bastiam Pilli Muscat, Oman., J Peter, Principal, Sanpada School, G Vijayaraj from Bangalore, Sam Arulanandam, Melbourne, Australia, Victor Sam and Pr Vara Prasad ECIU, Hyderabad for their whole hearted support in successfully organizing this retreat. Fig 7: Group photo of youth participants with leaders I would also like to thank the resource persons for all their hard work. Thanks are also due to the leadership of the North Rayalseema section and the Pastors and Global Volunteers for their kind cooperation. Above all I thank our Lord Jesus Christ for being all through the program and for richly blessing our youth. Dr. R J Solomon, ICSSR Senior Research Fellow, Mumbai.

A Day I’ll Never Forget

Jaya Singh as told to Benjamin Baker

            The morning was cool when I stepped out of my house, the gray clouds in the sky looking like giant pillows. I worea beautifully-tailored crepe silk dress with an umbrella cut, one my mom had made especially for me.

            I was excited as I walked to school, for today was to be very special.  This morning all the students from Vijayawada Adventist Elementary would cross the street to the large stadium and hear the prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, speak. I couldn’t wait to see him in person. Since the time I was young enough to understand,my parents had related to me great things about Pandit Nehru.  Along with Mahatma Gandhi he had fought for the freedom of our country, India. Because he was known to love children, weaffectionately called him “Cha Cha Nehru” (Uncle Nehru).

            In those days all sorts of big events were held on the Gymkhana Club Grounds—sports matches, circuses, exhibitions—but the elementary students rarely got a chance to attend them. So that morning the teachers lined us up and we walked across the street and into the stadium. I and my classmates sat right in the first row, at Nehru’s request. I was awed by the size of the place.

            I’ll never forget when I first saw Cha Cha Nehru. He came through an entranceway into the right side of the stadium, surrounded by security men who had serious expressions on their faces. But Nehru himself had a wide grin and was waving to the crowd.

            His security made to go right onto the high platform, but instead of following them Nehrupaused in front of us children.In seconds the prime minister was standing in front of me. He bent down to my level and touched my head ina gesture of blessing.Bowing my head, Ifoldedboth palms of my hands together inthe gesture of “Namaste” (“Namaste” is a traditional greeting in India).Nehru returned the greeting, and then asked, “What’s your name?”

            “Jaya,” I said shyly.

            “Do you know what your name means?” Nehru asked.

            “Yes. It means victory,” I replied proudly.

            Nehru smiled. “Good.What school do you attend?”

            “I study at the Seventh-day Adventist elementary right across the street.” I gestured in its direction.

            Nehru smiled again. “Oh, that is good. I heard that Seventh-day Adventists schools have a very good education system.”

            With that the great man patted me on the head again and began speaking with the little boy next to me. He talked to one more child,and then ascended the platform.

            Years later I had the opportunityto see Cha Cha Nehru’s daughter, Indira Gandhi, and his grandson, Sanjay Gandhi. All in all, I was blessed to see in person three generations of prime ministers. But none was as special as my original meetingwith Nehru.

            Now that I am older andlook back to that encounter more than 50 years ago, I thank God for the witness of our church and its institutions. It speaks inour favor that we are known and have a good reputation worldwide. May we continue to serve humanity and reflectJesus.

 Jaya Singh and Benjamin Baker work in the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.

Inauguration of Dr. Vincent Injety as South African College President

On July 31, 2013 the inauguration ceremony of Dr. Vincent Injety, the new president of Helderberg  College, took place in Anderson Hall at 10.00 am. It was truly a gala occasion with many guests and also  dignitaries from the South African Union Conference, the Chancellor, Dr. Letseli and local representatives and many guests. Promptly it started at 10.am, with the marching  in of the staff and followed by the participants in the service. The whole service was well orchestrated, the special music was appropriate from two student groups and it all contributed to an enjoyable occasion. The special speaker for the occasion was Dr. M C. Nhlapo, from the Kwa-Zulu OFS conference and he spoke very well about the contributions that Private Colleges and Universities make to the Education of youth in South Africa and Helderberg College is ranked among the top 7 for quality education!

The charge to Dr. Injetty was given by the Education Director of the SAU – Dr. Gerald Du Preez, himself a   former president of  the College. After signing his acceptance of the charge as the new president he was asked to remove his academic regalia and he was given the new college regalia and then the Chancellor handed him the Mace of Authority. Dr. Injetty then responded and spelled out his vision for the college and the support he needed to carry out the vision.

 Dr. Injetty is a graduate of Spicer Memorial College in India and has served in India, Solusi University as Dean of the Faculty of Business and his last two years as Pro-Vice Chancelor. He joined the Helderberg College Business faculty in 2008 as head of the Business department, in 2011 he became the Vice-President for Academic Administration of the College. He has presented professional papers on Strategic Management and non-profit management in various countries including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Hong Kong, Turkey and the United States. He is currently advisor to MBA students of Regent Business School, South Africa and also for the Adventist University of Africa in Kenya.

 He is supported by his wife, Lynda Priscilla, who lectures in the faculty of Business and they have two children, Sahana and Steven. His message to the patrons, alumni and supporters of Helderberg College is to join him in building the wall – quoting from Nehmiah 4:6 “ So we built the wall and the entire wall was joined together.” Working together he believes we can help build Helderberg College to reach a higher level.

 forwarded by Dr. John Matthews Courtesy to SUD E-News, August 22,2013

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Sud News - T P Kurian

Presidents Council 2013 August 14-17

Tourist Lodge, Chaltlang Aizwal Mizoram

This year the presidents’ council was  held in Aizwal, the capital of the Mizoram from August 14-17, 2013. The inaugural function was held in Aizwal Club and Lalthanhawala, Chief Minister of Mizoram and the first lady of the state and Ronald Sapa Tlau  were present for the occasion. In his address, the chief minister appreciated the work of Seventh-day Adventist Church pioneers for their contribution to the development of the Christian mission in Mizoram.  He also invited all the delegates for a dinner with him on the last day of the meeting.

                         The first meeting started on Thursday morning. R John, Division President spoke on seven deadly sins and how to overcome these sins. It was a wonderful Bible study. He closed the message referring the sacrifice of David Livingston’s life for the African nation to win them for Christ.

Justus Devadas, president, Spicer Memorial College presented a paper on strategic planning during the first session. Robert Clive, treasurer, SUD presented a papers on “transparency and accountability” and “self reliance” in the afternoon session.   

 The devotionals were taken by Rathanasing on Thursayday evening, Biakchhawana on Friday morning.   Much time was spent for prayer sessions that were led by M. Wilson, president, ECIU. The entire program came to a close with a prayer session.

On Friday, delegates had the privilege of visiting different churches for the vesper meeting and so also on Sabbath. 18 churches in Aizwal and neighbourhood had the opportunity to listen to the presidents’ council delegates.

On Sabbath after noon, a musical program was organized. Different church choirs presented their musical programs and at the end the Music Fest Mizo Adventist Music Association was inaugurated. 

South West India Union: Third Constituency Session

September 12-14, 2013

T P Kurian.

The third constituency session of South West India Union was held in Darsana Pastoral Centre, Vilanganoor, Peechi Dam, Thrissur from September 12-14, 2014. The devotion was led by Selvamony Yovan, president, SWIU on 12^th afternoon followed by business session. And all the delegates and the dignitaries from the Division were welcomed. Following the business session, the retirees were honored with  a plaque in appreciation of their valuable service for the church.  The secretary and the treasurer of SWIU presented their reports. There is a substantial growth in the tithe income. Then the section departments presented the reports. During the planning session, the nomination committee met and the section presidents were elected first.

In the afternoon as the planning committee had its deliberations, simultaneously the nomination committee also met and transacted their business.  The planning session was led by T P Kurian, SUD and had a livelily discussion regarding various plans for soul winning for the coming five years and also discussed about the strength, weakness, opportunities and  threats  (SWOT) analysis of the union. Many suggestions were brought out during the discussions.

Nomination Committee Report

Alappuzha- Pathanamthitta Section        President                            Stevenson R

                                                                                                                                                        Secretary/ Treasurer             M I Korah           

                                                          Idukki Section                                            President                            Raju Abraham

                                                                                                                                                   Secretary/ Treasurer                   D Chalres

                                                          Malabar Region                                         Director                                S Jacob

                                                          North Kerala Section                                      President                            Benny Joseph

                                                                                                                                                              Secretary                             K P Baby

                                                                                                                                                                Treasurer                            V T Mathai

                                                            South Kerala Section                                      President                            Philip S Jacob

                                                                                                                                                                   Secretary                             Antoni Devadas               

                                                                                                                                                                   Treasurer                           Ajith C George

                                                           Union Departments                                    Ministerial Associate               K P Cherian

                                      SS/PS Associate                             Jose Prakash

                                            Family Ministry                 Micha Aruldas

                                                                                                                                                                     Associate             Annakutty Varghese

                                            V O P Director                    Rajan Solomon

The existing department directors will continue until they retire and associate will take over as full-fledged directors after them.

Eleven evangelists were ordained to the Lord’s ministry. They are as follows: Abraham K P, Anil Devadas, Ajith  T K, Binoy Chacko, Biju Abraham, Biju P J, Boben P M, Doney Mathew, Jose K T, Joymon M and Joshua Ebenezer.

 Sabbath celebration was part of the constituency meeting. Leroy Samuel, associate treasurer, SUD delivered the message during the vespers. His message on special calling was inspiring to the congregation as well as the newly ordained ministers. The ordination candidates were presented and dedicated during the vesper service. On 14^th Sabbath, during the divine service, R. John, president, SUD encouraged the congregation to get ready for the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  The service climaxed with the laying of hand upon the ordination candidates and dedication of the newly elected  presidents and the department directors.  Thus the meeting ended with a positive note that both pastors and members dedicated themselves to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.

                                               South Western India Constituency: pictorial news

September 12, 2013 program

   PA Varghese, Secretary’s report                       D Chandran, Treasurer’s report                       Honoring special guests

                       Honoring  retirees                                                     Audience                                                                          Audience

September 13, 2013 program

    Song Service                                          Devotion- T P Kurian                             Idukki section report, R Stevenson

        Ministerial report, John Philip                     SS/PM report, K J Varghese                      WM report, Sushama Joseph

  Newly elected section presidents & director          ,Audience                                                                Ordination Candidates

   Vesper Service                                                      Leroy Samuel speaks, Rajamony translates

September 14,

 Song Service                                                     Micha Aruldas welcomes           Feature Talk, Rosamma Mathew         Mission Appeal-Lilly Benny Joseph  

  Music Freddy & John                                                          Special Song                                                             Audience      

  Children’s Sabbath School                                  Song book release- Dr. Kuriachan                     R John releases CD and song book

          Trichur church children’s choir                            Ordination candidates with spouses

      Divine hour speaker--  R John, Division President

The choice of the Church's logo reflects the core values that Seventh-day Adventists are committed to. The foundation is the Bible, the Word of God, shown open since its message must necessarily be read and put into practice. Central to that Biblical message is the Cross, and is also central in the logo. Above the Cross and the open Bible is the burning flame of the Holy Spirit, the messenger of Truth.

It is our hope and prayer that though this logo is a very simple picture of the foundation of Adventist beliefs and values it may be a recognizable symbol of the Adventist message to the world.

Who May Use The Logo

The registered trademark may be used by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, its entities, institutions, and churches, as authorized by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, its divisions, unions, and conferences.

 Nampa, Idaho | Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

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time with God

Editorial: T P Kurian

Are you ready for the latter rain?

In the last issue of Tidings I stressed on the topic, ‘We are the repairer of the breach’.  As we pass through each day, we are nearing to the coming of our Lord Jesus. Signs of the times are fulfilling right in front of our eyes. Gospel is being preached but not to the extent of to all nations. By depending on self, it is impossible to finish the task humanly. We need the power of the Holy Spirit in order to complete the work. We need to become like the disciples of Jesus in the first century.  When they received the power of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, they were strengthened and able to do a mighty work for the cause of Jesus. They became bold, courageous to preach the gospel in and out of “Jerusalem, Judea and to the uttermost part of the world”.  They were able to turn the world upside down with the message of salvation. How were they able to accomplish it? We read from the Scriptures “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:46,47.  They were in one accord, they had unity of thought and faith which strengthened them. Similar way in the last days we, the people of God, should be in one accord, only then the Holy Spirit will come upon us and empower us to complete the work. We need to experience the outpouring of the latter rain that will come upon the people of God who wait for it in one accord. Are we ready?

The disciples of Jesus had their differences and conflicts but they laid aside all the differences and conflicting opinions and stood in one accord, thus the Spirit of God came upon them and they did marvelous work. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord, Acts 3:19.  We need to confess our sins and repent that God will blot out our sins and we will be enabled to work together in one accord for the finishing of the gospel commission that is the last sign of Jesus’ return.

Ellen White wrote in Acts of the Apostles: It is true that in the time of the end, when God’s work in the earth is closing, the earnest efforts put forth by consecrated believers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit are to be accompanied by special tokens of divine favor. Under the figure of the early and the latter rain, that falls in Eastern lands at seedtime and harvest, the Hebrew prophets foretold the bestowal of spiritual grace in extraordinary measure upon God’s church. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early or former rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church. – {AA 54.2}

But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down ... the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain,” Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23. – {AA 55.1}

But unless the members of God’s church today have a living connection with the Source of all spiritual growth, they will not be ready for the time of reaping. Unless they keep their lamps trimmed and burning, they will fail of receiving added grace in times of special need. – {AA 55.2}

Those only who are constantly receiving fresh supplies of grace, will have power proportionate to their daily need and their ability to use that power. Instead of looking forward to some future time when, through a special endowment of spiritual power, they will receive a miraculous fitting up for soul winning, they are yielding themselves daily to God, that He may make them vessels meet for His use. Daily they are improving the opportunities for service that lie within their reach. Daily they are witnessing for the Master wherever they may be, whether in some humble sphere of labor in the home, or in a public field of usefulness. – {AA 55.3}

There is not much time left for us. We are living at the threshold of His advent. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”,  2 Pet.3:9.  Let us wake up from our sleep and be ready to receive the latter rain and prepare to meet the Lord in the air at His coming.

                                  Delgates Presidents' Council                                                                     Pausing with Chief Minister Mizoram

Presidents’ Council 2013 at Tourist Lodge, Chaltlang Aizwal Mizoram

The Presidents’ Council was held in Aizwal, the capital of Mizoram from August 14-17, 2013. The inaugural function was held in Aizwal Club and Lalthanhawala, Chief Minister of Mizoram and the first lady and Ronald Sapa Tlau were present for the occasion. In his address, the chief minister appreciated the work of Seventh-day Adventist Church pioneers for their contribution to the development of the Christian mission in Mizoram. He also invited all the delegates for a dinner with him on the last day of the meeting.

Audience                                                                                                       R John welcoming the audience

 The first meeting started on Thursday morning. R John, Division president spoke on seven deadly sins and how to overcome these sins. It was a wonderful Bible study. He closed the message referring the sacrifice of David Livingston for the African nation to win them for Christ. Justus Devadas, president, Spicer Memorial College presented a paper on strategic planning during the first session. Robert Clive, treasurer, SUD presented  papers on “Transparency and Accountability” and “self reliance” in the afternoon session.  

 The devotionals were taken by Rathanasingh on Thursday evening, Biakchhawana on Friday morning.   Much time was spent for prayer sessions that were led by M. Wilson, president, ECIU. The entire program came to a close with a prayer session.

                          At chief minister’s residence                                                                                               Bamboo Dance group CM's Residence

On Friday, delegates had the privilege of visiting different churches for the vesper meeting and so also on Sabbath. 18 churches in Aizwal and neighbourhood had the opportunity to listen to the delegates of the presidents’ council. On Sabbath after noon, a musical program was organized. Different church choirs presented their musical programs and at the end the music fest Mizo Adventist Music Association was inaugurated.  In the evening all the delegates were invited  by the chief minister of Mizoram for dinner with him so the evening was spent in his residence. There was a cultural program followed by a sumptuous meal. It was memorable occasion for many of us. On Sunday all of us departed to our respective places.                                                                                                     T P Kurian, communication director, SUD

    LAY LEADERSHIP TRAINING IN SHILLONG

 The Lay Leadership Training was conducted in Shillong on August 22 & 23, 2013 which was organized by the Sabbath School & Personal Ministries Department of Khasi Jaintia Conference. 44 delegates attended the program. Hadiyat Masih, Sabbath School & Personal Ministries Director, SUD and V. Colney, Sabbath School & Personal Ministries Director, NEIU were the resource personnel. On the first day, morning devotion was taken by Prosperity Lamare, SS/PM Director of KJC directing and focusing the minds and thoughts on committing ourselves to the commission of Jesus Christ as disciples. On the second day, morning devotion was taken by K. B Kharbteng, President of KJC emphasizing the importance of laymen in ministries.

Hadiyat Masih  dealt with the following topics: Involvement of lay members in witnessing; Why lay members are not involved and active in personal ministries?; The process of Witnessing; Motivation of lay members by the example of Jesus Christ and Motivation of Witnessing to lay members by the Pastors.  V. Colney presented two lectures relevant to his personal ministries in Tripura State and motivates the lay members by the ups and downs of his ministries that nurturing him. Time was allotted for discussion and all were blessed by the program.                                                             Prosperity Lamare, Director, SS&PM,  KJC, Shillong

IMPACTING THE WORLD FOR CHRIST:  IMPACT SOUTH AFRICA, 2013              “JESUS IN THE CITY“

In an atmosphere of high excitement and expectation, Elder Gilbert Cangy, General Conference Youth Ministries director declared open the Seventh-day Adventist church’s fourth World Youth Congress, IMPACT SOUTH AFRICA 2013, in the Marble Arch hall of St. George Hotel, Pretoria, South Africa from July 8-13. With over thirty-two hundred Adventist youth from 97 countries gathered togethe, the place was set ablaze with enthusiasm. Every five years the World Conference on Youth and Community Services brings together young people from around the world in the name of Jesus for a celebration of Salvation and Service, and this Congress made it come to life.

The youth congress was preceded with one week of community services from July 1–5. To make an impact, young people were challenged to be involved in service and mission for one week in either Cape Town, Johannesburg or Pretoria. There were more than one thousand young people who participated, along with their leaders working with 60 community service projects all around South Africa. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the city, thus the theme was rightly entitled “Jesus in the City”.    

The opening ceremony dignitaries included mayor of Tshwane [Pretoria] Councillor Kgosientso David Ramokgopa, and  Irvin Khoza, President of the South African Football Federation. Khoza thrilled the delegates when he spoke of being faithful through life to his Adventist faith and upbringing: “Inherent in our practice are the virtues of discipline, sacrifice, and selflessness,” he said. And he drew explosive applause from the youth with his testimony that “For all my life I have never smoked nor drank any alcohol.”

Hundreds of workshops during the six day duration were presented by almost 50 different  esteemed contributors with backgrounds in civil service, church leadership, editorial expertise, theology, and stock market investment. Delegates were also blessed by powerful morning devotionals by Margaret Chikwabi, social scientist, James Black, Youth Ministries director  North American division, and Anthony Hall, Youth Ministries director, Caribbean Union Conference. Along with them, plenary speakers included engineer Darryl Gungadoo, celebrated neurosurgeon Ben Carson, as well as leaders from General Conference that reflected the diverse skills available to the world church for rightly training God’s army of youth.  God is not just saving smart people,” said David Asscherick , co-director of Light Bearers and co-founder of ARISE. His powerful electrifying presentations pressed home the truth that “God is love” must be definitive of every understanding we derive from our study of Scripture. His is a love that reconciles lost humanity to Himself, and mends all the brokenness of our relationships with each other. A new feature called as Impact Groups were introduced, designed to assist in making new friends and building community with youth from others parts of the world.  Each IG groups had a leader who facilitated the activities which were intended to create opportunities to get to know one another and extend friendship beyond Impact South Africa. It was interesting to see young people from all over the world making new friends, sharing and praying together.                                                     

Our Division from Southern Asia was represented by thirty four delegates with Ravindra Shankar, Youth Director. It was a privilege to share with the delegates from around the world the way God is leading the young people of this church here in India. Dressed in our national costumes, we surely seemed to be one of the most diverse Divisions in the world. The inspiration of the various Divisions’ reports would surely leave a strong impression in the hearts of our young people.        

 On Sabbath, July 13, Ted Wilson, Adventist World Church President spoke to the delegates. He affirmed that the church counted on young people for the future of the church. Later in the afternoon, thousands of young people went out to the streets of Pretoria to share copies of The Great Hope . Truly with an army of young people rightly trained how soon the message of the crucified, risen, and soon coming Saviour might be carried to the whole world.

IMPACT SOUTH AFRICA is in the spirit of the 21^st century trend of youth ministry involving community service.  The young people of today have the spirit, the passion to participate in whatever activity the church provides for them.  We pray that they would return to impact their local churches, Conferences, and Unions and Divisions for Jesus. All we need to do is to pray for them, empower them, affirm their faith and trust them.
Daryl Joshua, SUD youth department

Wedding Bells                                                                                                       

 Paul with Swati: Paul s/o Bhupal & Shakuntala B Chandanshiv and Swati d/o Ashok M and late Rajeshree Waghmare were united in marriage on 29^th September, 2013 at Seventh-day Adventist  High School church, Shivaji Park, Kolahapur, Maharashtra.

Jonney with Denda:  Jonney Inba Leela d/o late Jayaraj & Hepzibah Simon and R. Denda s/o late V Rajamani & A. Pushpam were united in holy matrimony on 30^th September, 2013 at Seventh-day Adventist Church, E D Thomas Higher Secondary School, Kudikadu, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu .

Thomson with Jinu:  P. M. Thomson s/o Manu & Lisy Thomas and Jinu Susan d/o late Thomas Abraham and Alice were united in marriage on 2^nd October 2013 at Countour  Backwater Resorts, Changanacherry, Kottayam, Kerala.

Priyesh with Monica: Priyesh  Michael s/o Hidayath and Premila Masih and Monica d/o Mr & Mrs. Talab Gill were united in holy matrimony on October 14, 2013 at Seventh-day Adventist church, 11 Hailey Road, New Delhi.

Kranti with Kumari:  Kranthi s/o Pr. & Mrs. Mandapalli Edward and Kumari d/o Mr & Mrs. Kovalli Bhaskara Rao were united in marriage on 17^th October 2013 at Seventh-day Adventist church, G M Hospital, Nuzwid, AP

OBITUARY                                                                                        

PASTOR  PETER  KEINGAMBA KAMEI

   Peter Keingamba Kamei, was born to Mathiuchung Kamei & Kailabuanlu on April 10, 1935 at Nungba Head Quarters, Tamenglong District, Manipur. He completed his Medic training in the year 1967 in Pune. Kamei became a born again Christian in the year 1974 and he was inducted in the gospel ministry as a volunteer worker in Seventh-day Adventist Church by Northeast India region, Shillong. Peter Keingamba preached Adventism undauntedly in many villages of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland. Through his untiring work in the gospel ministry, many souls accepted three angels’ message. He is known as a gospel cum medical missionary. In 1980, Peter Keingamba was invited to the General Conference  meeting to present report of his missionary work.Peter is one of the pioneers of Adventist Church in Tamenglong and in Manipur. He retired from Mission active service on November 30. 1998. In the last chapter of his life, he resided in Imphal and he breathed his last on August 25, 2013. He leaves behind 7 daughters and 2 sons, 29 grand children and 8 great grand children.                                                                AdaheChara, Health & communication Director Manipur Conference

Pastor A.S. Khavangsing Mahakwo

Khavangsing Mahakwo was born on October  22. 1943 in Aphung village Ukrul, He had his schooling at Adventist Training School Meghalaya. After his matriculation, he joined Bible seminary course in A.T.S. He married in 1970. He served the Lord in various capacities as literature evangelist, teacher, pastor, and circle leader for 26 years. He retired from active service on 30^th Oct. 2005. On May, 2013 he suddenly fell ill and was admitted in the hospital. On 29 June he breathed his last.  He leaves behind his beloved wife, six children and nine grand children.                                                                          AdaheChara, Manipur Conference

Wilson Victor Augustine

Wilson was born to Pastor Joseph Augustine and his wife Mary on July 25, 1989 in Surat, Gujarat. He had his primary education at MCD School, Surat and continued his secondary school studies at E.D.Thomas Higher Secondary School, Kudikadu, Tamilnadu. Wilson completed his junior college at James Memorial Junior College, Prakasapuram. Later Wilson earned his Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) Degree from a private college in Surat. Wilson emerged to be a dynamic and visionary young scholar with all his wisdom and knowledge that he gained from the school, and an unshakeable faith and a strong conviction as his foundation that he derived from his godly parents. Young Wilson had strong desire to apply all the God given talents by working in the area of women empowerment, Face Book evangelism and youth evangelism. All his activities came to a halt when he met with a motor bike accident that took place on 25^th August, 2013 near his home base on the Vellore-Chittoor highway at 10.00 A. M.  Wilson leaves behind his parents Pr. Joseph Augustine & Mary Augustine, sister Ellen and a host of relatives and friends. May the burning desire for mission service that was within his heart inspire every youth to serve the Lord.                                           Dr. R J Solomon. Mumbai

Pastor G. Abraham

G. Abraham was born to Mr. Thomas and Annamma Geevarghese on July 12, 1955 at Karickom, Kottarakara. He completed his high school education at Seventh-day Adventist school, Kottarakara after which he completed Elementary Teachers’ Training at Spicer Memorial College, Pune. While having his education in Adventist institutions, he was attracted to the Sabbath truth and became a member in the Adventist church through baptism. He married Chinnamma, a teacher, on November 6, 1980. He served the church as a teacher, headmaster and principal in various schools in Kerala. He was ordained to ministry in 2009. He was an efficient teacher, evangelist, administrator, preacher and translator. He also worked as the treasurer of South Kerala Section after which he took up the responsibility as the president of Allappuzha- Pathanamthitta section. On September 3, 2013 his health condition began to deteriorate and on 5^th he breathed his last. He leaves behind, his beloved wife Chinnamma; daughters Jomol and Jean Ansu; sons-in-law Varghese Kuruvilla and Saji Thomas; son Jibin; grand children Nikhil & Nidhiv; 4 brothers and 3 sisters. We hope to meet him at the resurrection morning.                                                                                                                             Ramani Kurian, SUD

Janet Paulraj

 Janet was born to P Abraham and Lovis Chinammal in Gundal, Kanyakumari on March  4, 1954. She completed her education in Lowry Memorial Junior College in 1975 and joined  for service at SDA School , Puliangudi. She was married to G. Paulraj on April 21, 1976. Janet served the Lord as a teacher in Puliangudi and ED Thomas  Higher Secondary Schools.  On September 5, 2013 she was admitted in SDA Hospital, Thanjavur to continue the treatment she was undergoing and on 15^th September, she breathed her last. She leaves behind her husband Paulraj; sons Herald and Gerald;  daughters-in-law Mercy and Binu; grandchildren Rachel, Caleb, Eric and Neal; and brothers Pon Veeradhas and Paulasir Abraham.                                                                                                            John Justin, secretary, Thanjavur-Karackal Section        

Mrs Kantha Rathnamma Meesarapu Jacob

Kantha Rathnamma was born to Kollapu Samuel Sujanamma in Srirangapatnam,  Andhra Pradesh on December 23, 1923. She had her education at Korukonda. She was married to  Meesarapu Jacob on September 25, 1944. She remained a home maker for a few years taking care of her children. Later she joined work in GiffardMemorialHospital, Nuzvid  and served the institution for 30 years with dedication and commitment.  After her retirement in 1982, she went to the USA and returned to India after 10 years. She was living in Nuzvid until she was called to rest on October 4, 2013, two months before her 90th birthday. She leaves behind her children, Juliamma James, Krupavaram, James Rathnam, M J Prakasam, Joyce Pitta, and Mercy Jillella and their spouses, 17 grandchildren, and 22 great grand children.

M J Prakasam, President, LowryAdventistCollege

 The 11-Year Old Symbol: A worship given at the GC for the 150^th anniversary

by Benjamin Baker

“If you become a Christian, I will kill you!” the father snarled at his terrified, cowering daughter.

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.”                                                                                                         The words of Jesus Christ in Acts 1:8 neatly encapsulate the missiological paradigm of our church throughout its 150 years, and, really, 170 years.  Initially, our predecessors, Millerites turned Sabbatarian Adventists, held that the door of salvation had been shut, and only those Christians who believed in the second coming of Christ could be saved. These were to be strengthened and encouraged to persevere in the faith until their Lord came. This was Jerusalem and Judea.

But this notion only lasted a couple of years after the Great Disappointment, as non-Christians who had not believed in the advent accepted the message—which by the way was still developing. Slowly but surely the tiny coterie of Sabbatarian Adventists began to actively evangelize those who had not been Millerites, first in the Northeastern portion of the United States, then the Midwest, after the Civil War the South, and then into the West.  This is Samaria.

When the General Conference officially came into being on May 21, 1863, it organized for mission.  Believing that they were a people of prophecy, Seventh-day Adventists were symbolized by the three angels of Revelation 14:6-12, who proclaimed the gospel to “every nation, kindred, tongue and people.”  This was first done among the myriad people groups of America, but began in earnest when individuals like Michel Belina Czechowski, Albert Vuillemier, and the Andrews family crossed the ocean to spread the message. This is the uttermost parts of the earth. The mission-mindedness of early Seventh-day Adventists commands respect.  Women, men, boys, girls, old, young, educated, uneducated, the healthy, the sick, dedicated their lives to going to foreign lands, which at the least was uncomfortable and at the most fatal, to tell people they had never met and to whom oftentimes they had little in common about the truth as it is in Jesus. They were confident that even though the people they encountered were different than them on many levels, that this message still had the power of appeal, that the truths of the Bible were universal and spoke to everyone in every time and every place.

One individual with this belief was a woman named Georgia Burrus.  Born the year after the conclusion of the American Civil War, Burrus became a Seventh-day Adventist against the will of her parents at age 16. You will see how this is an uncanny bit of foreshadowing in a minute. Burrus attended Healdsburg College, taught at the Bible Training School in Oakland, then, out of an unshakeable yearning for souls on the other side of the world, volunteered for service in India.  She sailed to the Asian subcontinent in January 1895, and when she set foot on the bustling dock in Calcutta, became Adventism’s first fulltime missionary in India.  Six years later she would be followed by Anna Knight, the first black woman of any denomination to serve as a missionary to India.

Burrus is the very picture of courage as she walks among the millions of Calcutta, for she is a single woman, 29 years old, one of only a few Adventists in the country, and to top it all off, self-supporting.  Her first task was to learn Bengali. As she grasped the basics of the language and immersed herself in the culture, Burrus developed a deep longing for the salvation of Hindu girls, who numbered in the hundreds of thousands.  This was a vast field, but she started small, deciding to open a school for Hindu girls.  This she did with Martha May Taylor in 1896.  The two women fed the poor, clothed the naked, taught the uneducated, and told the precious souls about a Christ they had never heard of before.  I want to cast Georgia Burrus as an Adventist Mother Theresa before Mother Theresa was even a glimmer in the eyes of her parents.

Georgia Burrus loved her students deeply.  Her students loved her in turn.  They began urging their teacher to visit their homes to meet their parents and relatives.  One day Georgia was led by God to visit the home of a Hindu family called Biswas.  In those days the houses in India were more like compounds, extended families living together, with the men and women in separate quarters.  In the zenana—or women’s quarter, Georgia met a beautiful bright-eyed girl of 11 named Nanibala. Burrus learned that the young girl was already a widow, her husband having died years earlier. An immediate bond developed between the two. The missionary continued to visit the Biswas zenana, teaching the women English from the Bible once a week. At first imperceptible, as the visits continued Burrus could see that the Word of God was taking root in Nanibala’s heart. When the other women had lost interest in her Bible teachings, it was only Georgia and Nanibala.

One day as Georgia walked pass the Biswas home en route to her little mission school, Nanibala spotted her and snuck out of the house unobserved. “O Mem Sahib,” she said when she was at Georgia’s side, “I want you to come at night and steal me away and let me live with you so that I can be a Christian. My father has forbidden me to study the Bible with you, and when I told him that I want to be a Christian he said that if I leave Hinduism he will kill me. Even now my family beats me and mistreats me for believing in what you taught me.”

The next day Georgia went to the Biswas home for her weekly lesson with Nanibala.  She found the door barred and there was no response to her knocking.  The shrewd Burrus came back later when the family wasn’t expecting her and found the door unlocked.  She slipped in, and found Nanibala, who was elated to see her.  The two studied the Bible like old times, only now the other women glared at them coldly. After praying with her, Georgia left the smiling 11-year old, unaware of the madness that would visit the home after her departure. When her father returned from work shortly after Georgia left, he was informed by the women that Nanibala had studied with Burrus. Nanibala was beaten badly by her father and other members of her family.  When she could stand the abuse no longer, the girl threw off all custom and ran out into the street.  Providentially, Georgia was returning from a day of teaching at the school at just that moment.  She gathered the persecuted but determined girl in her arms, took her to the home of Martha Taylor, then hurried back to the mission school to talk with the other missionaries about the course they should take. When she neared the building she saw an enraged mob of men, yelling to the school staff that they return Nanibala to her parents at once.  It was only through the intercession of Georgia’s language teacher, a high ranking Brahmin, that the men were pacified.  He explained that Nanibala had chosen to become a Christian, and since she was of age, she could legally leave home.

When he was finished Nanibala’s father stepped forward, and, changing tack, admitted that his family had abused the young child and they were extremely regretful of it. If she would just return home, they could apologize to her, and the next day he would deposit her safely to school and she would be free to become a Christian.  When Georgia went to Martha Taylor’s home and explained the plan to Nanibala, she agreed to return home.  But the next day Mr. Biswas did not return his daughter to the mission as he had promised.  Nor the next.  Georgia Burrus went to the Biswas’ home, only to find the doors barred as the last time. When she went to the other homes in the neighborhood on her normal routine, they were barred too.  She was shut out, an untouchable.

The Seventh-day Adventist missionaries in Calcutta held a prayer vigil for Nanibala that Friday evening, it being a week since her disappearance. Well, God answers prayer, even back in the 1800s.  The next night in the wee hours of the morning, Georgia heard a loud rapping on her door.  She opened it to see a small girl trembling with fear.  The missionary drew her inside, bolting the door behind her.

The whole story tumbled out.  After Nanibala had returned home a week ago, her father had grabbed her and locked her in a room in the house, swearing he’d murder her if she tried to escape, and murder anyone who attempted to free her.  Nanibala, at first sobbing to herself, soon dried her tears and got to praying.  She pleaded with God not just for escape, but for the opportunity to serve her newfound Savior.  It was on Sabbath—a day whose sanctity she had just recently learned of—that her prayers were answered. In those days, homes in India were built on all four sides of an open court, forming a complete enclosure.  All throughout the week workmen had been making repairs on the Biswas’ house.  At quitting time on Friday evening, they had left a ladder lying in the open court of the enclosure.  On Saturday when she arose from her prayers, Nanibala looked out from her window and spotted the ladder. She knew God had answered her prayer. At midnight when everyone was sleeping, Nanibala made her get away. With the assistance of a sympathetic aunt she escaped her room and hoisted the heavy ladder against the side of the house. Nimbly climbing it, she pulled herself onto the roof, scurried across it, then leapt down to the street below. By a couple of other miracles the courageous Nanibala ended up in front of Georgia Burrus that night long ago.  She had defied family, upbringing, culture, caste and religion for Jesus.

In the coming weeks numberless efforts were made by the Biswas family to wrench their little girl away from the Adventist mission.  Her mother and grandmother came and with tears begged her to return. A rich woman from another Christian denomination hired by the Biswas’ tried to entice Nanibala with deceit, cunning words, and promise of unimaginable comforts to come back. Her father stationed men at the mission gates to grab his daughter when she walked by.  But all to no avail.  The 11-year old widow was baptized in 1895, the first Hindu convert to Adventism.

In 1901 Nanibala came to the United States to study medicine, telling her amazing story to believers across the nation.  She quickly became a symbol of the power of the Adventist message to overcome all barriers.  Nanibala was a testament, a guarantee that as untried and inept as we sometimes were, that with God’s grace we could reach the world.                                                                                                                                

This morning, some 120 years later, we are still in the “uttermost parts of the earth” phase of our mission.  Allow me to resuscitate Nanibala as a little child who is a symbol of the power of the gospel to convert anyone, of any race, of any nationality, of any religious background, of any gender, under any circumstances, against any odds. Like Jesus said of the Queen of Sheba, who traveled so far to hear the truth on a rumor, Nanibala gave up everything for this truth.  In the intervening decades this has happened countless of thousands of more times, and as we near our church’s final anniversary, it will happen many, many more times.                                                                                                      

Isaiah promises: “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and, a little child shall lead them.”

  Benjamin Baker, PhD Assistant Archivist Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904

IMEWS REACHES TANAKPUR &  DHARCHULA

Dharchula is a town and a nagarpanchayat in Pithoragarh district in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. An ancient trading town for the trans-Himalayan trade routes.The Kali is the western boundary of Nepal with India. Nepalese and Indian nationals cross unrestricted, however there is a customs checkpoint for goods.The name of the town may originate from the Hindi words for "mountain peak" (dhar) and "stove" (chula) because the valley in which it lies resembles a stove. Devastation done by heavy rain in Dharchula floods caused 4000 casualties. Extreme rains followed by floods and landslides in Uttarakhand should act as a wake up call for planners and decision makers all over the country.Waters came into Kali Ganga and Gori Ganga and within minutes several villages were washed away.  Heavy rains made the glacial lake over flow. Sending a lot of water down the rivers.  Several villages were washed away, roads and bridges collapsed making it very difficult for help to reach. While most of the relief and rescue operations in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand is concentrated around Kedarnath, little attention has been paid to Pithoragarh District, which was hit by floods twice in recent days. An estimated 1,000 people were stranded in the area as roads connecting to different areas have collapsed during floods and land slides.

Tanakpur is a town and a municipal board in Champawat district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Tanakpur is a calm and small town located on side of Sarda river. It is located at the foothills and is the last plain area on the road to Kumaon at zone of Uttarakhand. It acts as a junction for the Kumaon district's mountainous part. Being on the Indo-Nepal border, Tanakpur is very important on the security perspective of India as a nation.

  IMEWS sent its team to both the places to help the needy.  R.P. Singh, Coordinator, IMEWS, the team leader,  C.P. Singh, Upper Ganges Section, Rich Paul Chand, Nancy Chand, Mohit and Neha completed the team representing the IMEWS.  They distributed 10 Kg Atta, 10 Kg Rice, 2Kg Sugar, 2 Kg Dal, 2 KG Oil and 1 Kg salt each to 150 families, which is the immediate need of the people.                                           R.P.Singh, Director, SS/PM NIU, New Delhi

Women’s Ministries: Week end Service at Division Headquarters Church, Hosur

Women’s Minisitries department of Jeevan Jyothi English church was given an opportunity to take up the worship services on 16^th and 17^th August, 2013, both vespers  and the Sabbath worship. All the women of the church were enthusiastic about participating in various items for the glory and honor of Almighty God.

During the vespers after a special song by women, a beautiful skit, “Weeping and Gnashing”—a judgment scene-- was presented by the women. The skit portrayed  Christians of yesterday and today in different levels of faithfulness.  Christians who truly reflect their name “Christian” in their everyday life and are faithfully waiting for Christ’s return, while there are those who superficially carry the name but have no Christlikeness in their everyday life.   They are so much involved with the worldly affairs, worldly

                                                            Judgment Scene                                                                   Sabbth school lesson study: Panel discussion

enjoyments and have no time for anyone but lavish money on self,  luxurious homes, beautiful cars. The spreading of the gospel has nothing to do with them, the poor and underprivileged are just passed by.  Others believe that by doing good for the church and humanity would buy them a place in heaven.  They give Bible studies, win many souls.  Many lives are saved because of their witnesses, yet, the Lord will say,“Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”  Some are drifted into sin, but once heart longs for a better way and is truly sorry and believe that the Lord Jesus has offered His blood for atonement.  Sooner or later, the Lord will segregate the Christians among the Christians and the remnants among the remnants.  “The time of the harvest will be past, the summer will be ended, and many will not be saved” was the theme of the skit.

All the Sabbath morning services were taken by the women of the church. Deborah Samraj, Santha Livingston, Sobha Singh and Ramani Kurian engaged the congregation into an enriching lesson study as way of panel discussion on “ Unity: bond of Revival”.  Most of the women joined in the choir and sang responses and special song that enhanced the sacredness of worship experience. Margaret Nathaniel shared a story with the children during the story hour.

Women at divine worship hour                                                                                                         Special song: Women’s choir

                        Divine hour speaker: Jamuna

Jamuna Gompa Devadas, a school teacher, was the speaker for the divine hour. Her inspiring message on ‘Faith’ put the congregation on the ground to rethink of the faith each person was holding. She pondered upon the faith demonstrated by the Cannanite woman when she sought help from Jesus for healing her daughter from her illness.  Jamuna emphasized, “Faith is not something we can strengthen or improve with vitamins or supplements or tablets. Faith is the assurance of our belief. Faith enables us to see what God does. It helps us to see what others cannot see or do. If something goes wrong with our faith, no physician can fix the problem. Faith simply believes in things which we cannot see with our eyes. It is born in us and grows stronger and stronger when we study God’s word diligently seeking the Spirit of God to enlighten us.” Divine worship came to a close with benediction by Vandana Jeyaseelan.                                                             Ramani Kurian, Asst director,  Communication, SUD, Hosur

New Feathers in AMC Cap

The Adventist Media Centre, Pune, was established with the intent to transform the world through spoken word.  It was broadcasting the programs in 8 Indian languages.  Edison Samraj, the director had a dream to add two more languages-- Odia and Gujarathi.  He contacted the local units, Puno Chandra was appointed for Odia and Simon Pandey  as assistant radio speaker for Gujrathi.  Raby Thomas was appointed as Treasurer and Steven Raju as Music Director. AMC will be blessed by their contributions in their respective areas.

Economic Mess- Is There a Way Out?

The top officials of Pune city came together on 14-9-13 to find answers for this important question which many people are still struggling with. It was an initiative taken by the Adventist Media Centre, Pune under the leadership of Edison Samraj to bring the top intellectuals of the Pune city for a dialogue and deliberations on the topic Economic Crisis: Is There a Way Out?

The program started around 6:00 pm, in Susie Sorabjee Auditorium, Pune. Edison Samraj welcomed the dignitaries-- Muzamdhar, Vice Chancellor, Symbiosis Group of Institutions, BhariMalhotra, President Weig Field Industries, Manhoar Pirbhai, Chairman Azam Trust,  Victor Sam, General Vice President of SUD. The program was well attended by the intellectuals of Pune. The St. Eileen’s School choir sang a lovely melodious group song to add flavor to the event.  Muzumdhar in his address, reminded the audience that the Indian mind works better in times of crisis. Robert William began his speech by pointing to the positives that Indian Economy has enjoyed in the 21^st century, India being first in the telecommunication sector in the world market.  Indian Pharmaceutical market is growing day by day.  He reminded the audience that Indians needed not to be shaken by the recent developments, but to keep their hopes high and look to the Creator for solutions. The Punites were elevated by the approach and presentation of Robert Antony Williams. His approach was systematic and modern in thinking. Every one enjoyed the presentation.  The Adventist Media Centre has made an impact on the minds of the people in Pune. We are looking forward to conduct similar seminars in the coming days.                                                                                                          N. Ashok Kumar, Kannada Radio Speaker, AMC, Pune.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH INAUGURATION

KHANPUR-LATIFPUR

It was a joyous moment and day for the believers in Khanpur-Latifpur village.  It was a dream come true experience for them. It all started when the National highway No. 1 – New Delhi to Jammu-Kashmir was expanding and some part of the church land was acquired by the National Highway Authority.  The old church was partially demolished.  The North India Section appealed to the people to come up with the funds to build the church at Khanpur-Latifpur location.

Ramesh Massey from UK responded and took the responsibility to build the church.  We are thankful to the donor and builder of the Khanpur-Latifpur church. 

Bipul Bairagee

Lay Training program: South Maharashtra Section                  

A lay training program was conducted in South Maharashtra Section, Alate, Kolhapur, on September 27, 2013 by the SSPM Department.  The training program was attended by over 100 lay members and volunteers from all the churches of the section. The resource personnel for the program were Hidayat Masih, SSPM Dir., SUD and L.D.Battise SSPM Director,WIU. The speakers emphasized the role and importance of lay members in evangelism and reaching the un-reached.  The key text was Acts 1:8-.And ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.  It was a wonderful spiritual feast for the members as they listened intently to God's word. At the end of the session Hidayat Masih and Battise distributed picture rolls to each delegate with the intention that these rolls will enhance their understanding of the Bible   and use it as effective tool in public evangelism.

 Satish Bhosale, Treasurer

South West India Union: Third Constituency Session.

The third constituency session of South West India Union was held in Darsana Pastoral Centre, Vilanganoor, Peechi Dam, Thrissur from September 12-14, 2014. The devotion was led by Selvamony Yovan, president, SWIU on 12^th afternoon followed by business session. And all the delegates and the dignitaries from the Division were welcomed. Following the business session, the retirees were honored with a plaque in appreciation of their valuable service for the church.  The secretary and the treasurer of SWIU presented their reports. There is a substantial growth in the tithe income. Then the section departments presented the reports. During the planning session, the nomination committee met and the section presidents were elected.

In the afternoon as the planning committee had its deliberations, simultaneously the nomination committee also met and transacted their business.  The planning session was led by T P Kurian, SUD and had a livelily discussion regarding various plans for soul winning for the coming five years and also discussed about the strength, weakness, opportunities and  threats  (SWOT) analysis of the union. Many suggestions were brought out during the discussions.

Nomination Committee Report

                                                                              Alappuzha- Pathanamthitta Section        President                            Stevenson R

•                                                                                                                                                               Secretary/ Treasurer                    M I Korah           

                                                                                                        Idukki Section                                                    President                            Raju Abraham

                                                                                                                                                                     Secretary/ Treasurer                       D Chalres

                                                                                                             Malabar Region                                                Director                                S Jacob

                                                                                                            North Kerala Section                                      President                            Benny Joseph

                                                                                                                                                                                    Secretary                             K P Baby

                                                                                                                                                                                     Treasurer                            V T Mathai

                                                                                                            South Kerala Section                                      President                            Philip S Jacob

                                                                                                                                                                                   Secretary                             Antoni Devadas               

                                                                                                                                                                                    Treasurer                           Ajith C George

                                                                                                          Union Departments                                        Ministerial Associate                 K P Cherian

                                                                                                                                                                             SS/PS Associate                          Jose Prakash

                                                                                                                                                                              Family Ministry                              Micha Aruldas

                                                                                                                                                                                             Associate                       Annakutty  V

                                                                                                                                                                                V O P Director                             Rajan Solomon

 .           

  Ordination Candidates                                                                                                  Sabbath Message R John, SUD President

Eleven evangelists were ordained to the Lord’s ministry. They are as follows: Abraham K P, Anil Devadas, Ajith  T K, Binoy Chacko, Biju Abraham, Biju P J, Boben P M, Doney Mathew, Jose K T, Joymon M and Joshua Ebenezer.

   Sabbath celebration was part of the constituency meeting. Leroy Samuel, associate treasurer, SUD delivered the message during the vespers. His message on special calling was inspiring to the congregation as well as the newly ordained ministers. The ordination candidates were presented and dedicated during the vesper service. On 14^th Sabbath, during the divine service, R. John, president, SUD encouraged the congregation to get ready for the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  The service climaxed with the laying of hand upon the ordination candidates and dedication of the newly elected presidents and the department directors.  Thus the meeting ended with a positive note that both pastors and members dedicated themselves to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.                                                                                                                                           T P Kurian, Editor, Southern Asia Tidings

Mrs Ballantyne Celebrates her 100^th Birthday

Joyce Ballantyne was born on 4^th September 1913 into a good Christian home.  She completed her teacher’s training in Madras and has been a teacher all her life.  She was married and has five children. She was baptised into the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1952, by Pr E.L.Sorenson in Vizag.  The church wanted her to start a school there, but God knew that she had no experience of running an Adventist school, so the plans failed.

 She got her first mission call to teach at Spencer Road School in Bangalore.  Here she learnt how to run a school on Adventist lines.  After a few years she returned to Vizag and with God’s help, opened a school in the church vestry with just seven pupils, and today it has grown into a high school.   Again after five years the rice millers of Palakol, approached Andhra section to open a school for them, so her services were lent to them for two years.  In 1966 she was given a call to open a school in Vijayawada.  It was opened in the church vestry on Bunder road.  Today this school too has grown in leaps and bounds.  She returned to the UK for two years, and then came back to India. She worked at Lowry Memorial School, taught in the school and also was in charge of the CCF, where she was able to help many poor students.

 In 1974 she was transferred to Nuzvid where she worked as house mother for the nurses in the hospital.  She has many happy memories of the girls for whom she cared, many of them are still in touch with her.  While being the dean of girls, she was asked to teach in the Nuzvid day school, as teaching was her first love, she gladly accepted.  Soon she opened a branch Sabbath school in a village on the out skirts of Nuzvid, a place called Kandrika.  Every week she went there, she would see that all the children in the village were eager to come to Sabbath school, but unfortunately they could not attend any school, as the Nuzvid school was too far away for them.

 She soon had a bright idea.  In November 1980, she hired a house in Nuzvid from Mrs. Sudarshanam.  She went to Kandrika and put all the bigger children into this small hostel, so that they would be able to get a Christian education in our Nuzvid school. This is how the boarding school started in Nuzvid, and today it has grown in leaps and bounds. In 1982 she built the first church in Kandrika as many of the children and their parents from this village were baptized members. God had blessed the work that she started, and today many many students are in good positions and are scattered around the world.  

 She is in good health and still receives letters, cards and phone calls from her students, they are thankful to her for helping them to come to know the Saviour. She is thankful to God for His boundless mercy and matchless love that have been sustaining her and helping her to be able to have a part in bringing many people to His feet.

 God has spared her to see her 100^th birthday. She has just got a card from the Queen of England, but it will be a greater reward for her when she goes to heaven and Jesus Himself will put a crown on her head. Winnie Kurian <winnek2006@yahoo.co.uk>;

 Ottapalam Hospital on Upward Move

Ottapalam hospital has taken many progressive steps over the past several months. There are many ways God’s work is being seen here in the campus. On June 11, the ground floor of the new College of Nursing was inaugurated by R. John, president, SUD. The building was dedicated for the glory of God by Robert Clive. The ceremony was also attended by Selvamony, President, SWIU; Pierson David, secretary & Alamgir Khan, treasurer, Medical Trust; Pr. Benny Joseph, president, North Kerala Section and other leaders from South West Indian Union  and North Kerala section .The Project was funded by Southern Asia Division and a loan was procured for the same from South Indian Bank.

 July brought cheers to our campus when we installed a 160KV generator that is sufficient to meet all our needs for the present and the future.

 On August 19, John Cristo, Medical Director, SDA Medical Center, Bangalore inaugurated a new laparoscopic surgical set. This is a new milestone added to our surgical department and will enable our surgeons and staff to render better service to patients. The project was made possible with the generous help rendered by SDA Medical Centre Bangalore.

             A new fully automatic Biochemistry Analyzer was also installed in August by the generous help of Medical Trust, CMC Vellore Alumni and friends of Ottapalam hospital. God has been good to us and we have seen the evidence His leading in our institution. We hope and pray that He will continue to bless and guide us in the coming days.Please continue to uphold us in your prayers.

 Renjith, Medical Director, Ottapalam Hospital

 Doctorate Degree Awarded to Thamanam Nathanael

 THAMANAM NATHANAEL, Academic Dean & Vice-Principal, Flaiz Adventist College,was awarded Ph.D degree, from Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, A.P. on April22, 2013for his research work on the topic “An Investigation of High School Teachers’ Pedagogical and Cognitive Competencies in Geometry and Trigonometry”.  Dr.M.Vanaja, Associate Professor, Department of Education and Training,Maulana Azad National University, Hyderabad, was his research director. He was commended for his excellent research work which is useful for the curriculum development in Mathematics.

 Nageshwara Rao, Education Director, SUD

Report from Manipur Conference

I have heard about Dr. Johnson Christian who resides in United States and his good work.  It was L.F. Lyngdoh, President of Northeast India Union of Seventh-day Adventist who introduced me to Johnson Christian in March 2012.  I was told that he was an educationist and conducted education seminars for teachers. Manipur Conference invited

 him to conduct teachers’ training program in March 19-20, 2012 and about 60 (sixty) teachers participated in the training.  The teachers learnt much from the seminar. On January 2013 Johnson Christian visited again Manipur conference and had done so much work for our Conference.  He has donated little over 2 lakhs to provide tube well water for SDA Academy, Tarung Imphal and Maringmi Memorial school, Ukhrul.  He has also provided financial assistance for King’s Way English school, Imphal for the construction of proper drainage.  We wish God’s blessings as he continues to serve God in various ways.                                                                                                                                 Barnabas Zimik, President, Manipur Conference

NORTHERN INDIA UNION: ACCOUNTANTS’ WORKSHOP

Northern India Union conducted its seventh Accountants’ Workshop from September 30 to October 9, 2013 at the Union office in New Delhi.  There were 23 cashiers and accountants, from Sections, Regions and Schools within Northern India Union, who gathered for the training program.  Since most of the cashiers/accountants come from hnon accounting background, the Union officers  Ezras Lakra, President;  Robin Ram, Executive Secretary and Attar Singh, Treasurer; thought that it would be most appropriate to conduct a training program to prepare workers for this sacred responsibility.

The main objective of conducting the workshop was to introduce the basic accounting concept, right from the collection of data to preparing vouchers and receipts, to journalizing, posting to the ledger, preparing trial balance, statement of financial statements and balance sheet.  The main emphasis was on the accounting concept, Assets = Liabilities + Fund Balance and all account heads and terminologies that fall under it.

During this training program, seniors who have served the organization in various capacities as cashiers, accountants and treasurers impart knowledge to the cashiers and accountants who were present.   Those who attended the training felt that they got to learn a lot and were going back better equipped. The resource personnel were:  Attar Singh, Treasurer, NIU;  Derald Bhengra, Assistant Treasurer, NIU,  and Samuel Chand, Treasurer, Jalandhar School.                                                                                                                                 Attar Singh, Treasurer Northern India Union

Kollegal School: Pathfinder Club Inauguration

The Pathfinder Club of the school was inaugurated on August 7, 2013. Suresh Daniel, president, Bangalore Metro Conference was the chief guest who addressed the gathering and inspiried the pathfinders to be of help to the people in need. The club consists of more than 100 energetic and vibrant pathfinders. S Prabhakar, youth director, SKS, Mysore and Jacob Bhaggien, Principal, School for Speech & Hearing Impaired, Kollegal also were present during the occasion.

Prem Cyrus, Director, Pathfinder Club

New Year Message from the President

Another year has gone by. A new year is beaming with bright hope and anticipation of all good things. We do not know what this new year holds for us; what kind of blessings are in store for us. David says in Psalms 34:10, “They that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.” If we hearken to his counsel, it is definite that we will not lack any good thing this year.

We should seek the Lord according to the instructions of the word of God. Most often people seek the Lord half heartedly. Some have fully indulged in the pleasures of the world. The word of God says in Psalm 119:2, we have to seek the Lord with our whole heart. Some have 100% trust in men, but when all fails, then they turn to God. But David had a unique way of seeking God, in Psalms 63:1 he says, “Oh God, early will I seek thee.” Let us make it a practice to seek the Lord early throughout this year. Then He will shower us with His abundant grace. Let our relationship with the Lord be strengthened during this year. Then all our efforts will be fruitful. God will prosper us and we will enjoy all His blessings. The Lord will be our Good Shepherd, we shall not want, He will meet all our needs.

 “God is upon all for good that seek Him” (Ezra 8:22). When Israelites were walking through the wilderness, God’s protective hand was over them. The same Hand will be with us too, during this year and protect us from all harm and evil. He will hide us under the shadow of His wings.

 Let us enter upon the New Year with our hearts cleansed from the defilement of selfishness and pride. Let us put away every sinful indulgence and seek to become faithful, diligent learners in the school of Christ (OHC 7.3). Seek to begin this year with right purposes and pure motives as beings who are accountable to God. Let us seek the Lord and find Him through diligent study of God’s word and earnest prayer. The ministry of angels, the gifts of His spirit, and the labors of His servants all are for you. Let patience, long suffering, kindness and love become a part of your very being.

2014 is a year of ‘Mission to the Cities.’ It is strategic, crucial and wise to reach the cities in the Division with the glorious gospel of Three Angels’ message. In India the number and size of the cities have become a great challenge. The future and hope of a nation lies in its cities. Cities were lighthouses of the gospel to the surrounding regions. Through the city church at Ephesus, the whole Asia Minor was evangelized. To complete the great commission task in the Division it is essential to reach 83 cities during this quinquennium.

 So, dearly beloved in Christ, let us be desirous of seeking Him in all our plans and endeavors. God will definitely bless us, with miracles and wonders this year. May God’s abundant Grace, Peace and Blessing be with you in 2014. I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.     Pastor R John, President, Southern Asia Division

Just Don't Arise, but Shine too: The Third Nepal Youth for Christ (NYC) Meeting

October 23-27, 2013 brought over 250 young  people from far and near to Chitwan, Nepal, for the third annual Nepali Youth for Christ meeting.  These Seventh-day Adventist young men and women, along with some Hindus and other non-SDAs, gathered in Rampur Agricultural Campus,  Nepal.  Presenters from the Southern Asia Division, America and Australia came to arouse the spiritual life of these hungry believers.
     NYC president, Philip Dangal, and vice-president, Madeline Cardona, had a team of young people who did their best to make the program a rewarding experience.   This meeting was the first mass Adventist gathering since Nepal became a section under the leadership of Umesh Kumar Pokharel, the president.

        
 Every morning the participants gathered in the main meeting hall where different groups from the various churches led the song service. Hair-rising and soul-piercing testimonies were presented each day by several believers. Among the testimonies were: how a mother left a child on the motorbike behind the father who thought the mother was also sitting there; a daughter whose mother had a cancerous hand that was healed after coming to the church; and, a young girl who had a male personality changed into female personality after a deadly accident.
Various seminars were led by the guest speakers and Philip Dangal. The SUD youth director, Ravindra Shankar, led a seminar on Freedom, "Man's Best Choice." SUD Publishing department director,  Vara Prasad Deepati, spoke about the 10 Commandments; Philip Dangal presented on "Unashamed Youth to Stand" which taught the youth to think of themselves as leaders not only of the future but also of the present time.  Other seminars were: Joel Slade from Australia speaking on Relationship and Purity;  Dean Cordian from USA speaking on Evangelism and Samuel Nanaverapu of Amazing Facts (India) talking about Jesus as the Perfect Incarnation.

             
      The crowning part of the NYC was the series of sermons by Peter Gregory. His metallic voice, graphic movement and gestures, and PowerPoint presentations captured the heart and mind of the listeners. His messages were most needed for each person who claims to follow Jesus in this world today.  The call for spiritual awakening,  Biblical meditation, encounters with God, and learning to embrace God were some of the main points that drove listeners spiritually home. Peter's messages often held the listeners spellbound. Overall, Peter Gregory acted as a stepping stone to lead the NYC attendees to know Jesus better.  The participants listened to each message from this man of God, and the result was a great rewarding experience..
    A witnessing program was held that all the participants, under various leaders, visited different parts of the town, singing, giving pamphlets, praying and sharing about Jesus. They all enjoyed sharing their faith with others. The last message was given on Sunday, October 27, by  Vara Prasad who focused on what it means to "Rise and Shine”. Nineteen members of Spicer College Mission team led by Emmanuel Paul and Uma Shrestha  gave an impressive performance on how youth could be torn between self, addiction and Jesus.  

 This year's NYC meeting came to an end with four baptisms, one paralyzed college student, Niswartha who came alone to NYC from a Hindu family, gave his heart to Jesus  and wished to live for Jesus rest of his life. Four days of NYC experience gave all participants a glimpse of what it will be like to be in heaven with those who love Jesus. Just before the participants left for home, hundreds of Bibles, Sabbath school lessons , a Sanctuary book, “Final Events" DVDs and several other  publications were distributed to the attendees.   We want to thank the organizers of this NYC program and all the donors who made it possible for us to attend and learn many things from this meeting. Honor and glory to God!                  Bhaju Ram Shrestha (bhajupurna@gmail.com)

Spicer Solicits Funds from the Alumni,

Friends and Well-Wishers for the Centennial Projects

As you are aware Spicer is preparing for the Centennial Celebrations during January 28-Feb 1, 2015.  The College was established as South India Training School at Coimbatore in 1915 with just 13 students and has gradually developed into a larger institution now offering even post-graduate and doctoral programs and is poised to receive the University charter from the state government soon as it inches toward its centennial year. This is certainly the time to rejoice and celebrate God’s marvelous leading over the decades and to express our unstinted gratitude for His continuous and magnanimous blessings. 

 The College has decided to build a Centennial commemorative edifice, - a College of Management and Computer Science building with state-of-the-art facilities. The construction work has already started and is expected to be completed with all the facilities before January, 2015.  This will be inaugurated during Centennial Celebrations and dedicated by Dr Ted N. C. Wilson, President of the General Conference.

 This project is estimated to cost about Rs. 10.2 crores (1.8 Million USD at the current exchange rate).  The structure would cost us about 60% of the estimate and the interiors will cost the other 40%.  We have raised most of the funds for the structure and are looking forward for donations for interior and furniture layouts.

 The video of the project, details of floor-wise layouts and the section-wise estimates are uploaded on the college websites and can be viewed by clicking the following links: www.spicer-100yrs.in

and www.spicercollege.com . We request you to be part of this noble endeavor and adopt whatever scheme is convenient to you.  We do realize this is a monumental task but if all of us can join together we can complete this project successfully.  Kindly consider our request and help us to fulfill our dreams for our Alma Mater and the future generations.  You may join together with the Spicerians and other friends in your area or your Church and adopt whatever plan is possible and be blessed in return.  “Cast your bread upon water and ye shall find it after many days”-Eccl. 11:1.  We will recognize all such donations with appropriate plaques bearing the donor’s name, preserved for posterity at strategic locations of the college.

May the Good Lord continue to bless you as you ponder over your share of participation in this sacred venture of building monuments for His cause thus bringing glory and honor to His matchless name. We look forward to hearing from you encouraging and inspiring reports of how God led you to and though Spicer and how you would like to respond to His amazing grace bestowed on you, and finally to meeting you in Spicer campus during the centenary celebrations, hopefully a foretaste of what it will be in the world to come.

    S Rajendra Prasad, VPAA, Spicer Memorial College

Fifty Years Later, Class of 1963 at Lowry!

            The first weekend of November, 2013 was filled with interesting activities on Lowry Memorial College campus.  Its Class of l963 had returned to its Alma mater after 50 years to praise God and honor the institution that laid the Christian educational foundation for their lives. Thirteen of the twenty-seven class members came for this Golden Jubilee Celebration, of those seven came from different parts of the U.S and six came from India.  The school administration took great pride in welcoming its alumni and making them feel very special with flowers, shawls and kind introduction to the current students and staff.  Prakasam Jacob, the president of the college and his staff helped to make all the necessary arrangements for this reunion.  He said, “This is the only alumni group that ever came back to Lowry to say, “Thank you”!  Many wondered how this class kept itself together to make such a memorable come back!

Fifty years ago at the end of the school year in 1963 our class had a formal graduation.  There were twenty-seven students in the class and the class sponsor was  Russel Isaac, who had returned with his Masters in Education from Andrews University.  The Principal was S. G. David, the Head Master  J. N. Samuel had also just come back from the US after receiving his Masters in Education.  Kutzner, the missionary from Canada was appointed as the principal for the new school year.  The administrators decided to have a formal graduation like they had it in the Adventist Boarding Academies in the US, for our class. We selected the class motto “In God We Trust” and the aim, “To Walk with God Eternally”.  Miss Stoneburner who was at the union office even composed a song for our class.  The graduation activities brought our class members together in special ways, making wonderful memories of finishing our high school. 

            Our class was made up of students from Spencer Road English Middle School, a bulk from E. D. Thomas Memorial High School, one from Narsapur and others from schools around Bangalore and Krishnarajapuram.  Most of us were children of Adventist workers while others were Adventist lay members’ children from South India Union.  In the three years of high school, we had many wonderful teachers who were mostly Adventists.  Teachers of the vernacular language were local educators from Hindu background.  Our principals from 1960 through 1963 were Jessen, Ralph Jones and S. G. David.   Stanley David, Durai Jeevanesan, Pylee Abraham, Bhaggian, Florence Jesurathinam, Mrs. Jegathesan, Devaraj, Miss Titus, Russel Isaac,  K. P. Philip were most of the teachers we had.  They taught us to love learning and to aspire for higher achievements with our faith in Jesus as our foundation.  It was here they trained us to participate in religious activities and instilled the great Adventist educational culture in us.  Manual labor was a very important part of our education at Lowry.  Our preceptors was Mrs. L. C. Samuel and the preceptor was Devadass.  They woke us up around 5:30 and we had morning worship at 6:00.  At 6:30 we lined up for work assignments outside the hostels.  Each morning we were sent to one of the following areas for work—Lowry juice factory, farm, estate, kitchen, hostel cleaning, dairy, bakery and so on.  We worked till 8:00 with empty stomachs and cleaned up in crowded bathrooms and had breakfast of different kinds of porridge or ‘uppuma’ and rushed to our classrooms. This daily schedule certainly trained us for hard work.  Educational activities and the religious activities that took place each week instilled in us great Christian values of honesty, empathy and love.

            Most of our class members from the Adventist background have immigrated to the United States but we kept in touch with each other.  In 1993 Enoch Thomas took the lead for a 30 year get together in Washington D.C.  We travelled from different parts of the U.S. and had a joyful 30^th year reunion.  At that time Pr. and Mrs. S.G. David, Pr and Mrs. Ralph Jones and Dr. and Mrs. Kutzner joined us.  We had the opportunity to honor them.  As 2013 was ticking on, many of our class members expressed their interest in having our 50^th year reunion in India on Lowry campus.  Few of the members took the lead in planning the activities for the weekend and the Lowry administration was a great source of help in organizing the program.  Jane Injetty took the lead in putting the final details in place after hundreds of phone calls and emails.  Enoch Thomas gave the moral support and blessings as the plans progressed.  Florence Jeyabarathan took charge of all the work that needed to be done in India and was a great source of help in planning the hotel stay and taking charge of our transportation in Bangalore. 

            The weekend began with us first honoring our teachers.  Pr. and Mrs. Devaraj were the only teachers who were able to be present with us.  Mrs. Jegathesan joined us through SKYPE.  We thanked our teachers and honored them.  We read the handwritten message that Mrs. Jegathesan sent to the class.  Then we took the vespers at Lowry College church.  The speaker was Reverend Deena Dayalan, a minister from the CSI church.  He was one of our day scholar class mates and Enoch Thomas found him through internet search and made the connection.  He is a nationally known Indian Christian leader who is a peace and social justice activist.  He has been instrumental in enacting many UN policies related to social justice issues in Asia.  Our class members also took charge of the Sabbath School program and the Church service and shared our gifts.  Devadass Moses was the speaker for the divine service.   He spoke on the topic “Being Rich Toward God.”  The Sabbath celebration culminated with a special lunch that our class provided for all the students, staff and members of the English and other vernacular churches on the campus. 

            Our class came back to Lowry Campus after fifty years to demonstrate that the Adventist education truly makes its students fruitful for God’s kingdom.  We also wanted to say, “Thank you” to the institution that shaped our young lives fifty years ago.  Another purpose was to inspire the current students to value the education they are receiving at Lowry today.   We praise God for taking us from a small beginning at Lowry to greater heights in the professional careers we pursued.  We can truly say that the Adventist Christian education we gained at Lowry stands the test of time.  It was well said,  “He who co-operates with the divine purpose in imparting to the youth a knowledge of God, and molding the character into harmony with His, does a high and noble work. As he awakens a desire to reach God's ideal, he presents an education that is as high as heaven and as broad as the universe; an education that cannot be completed in this life, but that will be continued in the life to come”(White, E. Education, p. 19).                                                                 Margaret Solomon, Professor, La Sierra University, Riverside, California

Madhya Bharat Section,  Jaipur,

New Recruit L E Training Program

October 2- 6, 2013

 “I have decided to follow Jesus, No turning back, no turning back” with this theme 7 young men gathered in MBS headquarters early morning on October 2, 2013 to be trained and equipped so that they could carry the Printed Pages Ministry in the vast field of the MB section. Kishore Gill, NIU Publishing Ministry director took the initiative and Barkat Masih, MBS Publishing Ministry director worked together with the support and cooperation of the section leaders. Ravi Gill, president, addressed the waiting youth in his opening note: “We are coworkers with Christ”. “Publishing Ministry work is the most powerful and enduring way of taking the present truth before the perishing world,”  he emphasized. He promised to give full support to the newly recruited LEs in their  assigned ministry. With the encouragement, motivation and knowledge imparted, the youth transformed into a powerful and promising force for publishing work.

The resource personnel handled the following topics: Philosophy of Publishing Ministry, Mission of Publishing Ministry, and Publishing Ministry in God’s Plan. In the evening worship Umesh Nag laid emphasis on how the Adventist message was taken by two literature evangelists who dared to come to India in 1893. “Present Truth” was originally printed and distributed by Seventh day Adventists to teach the world. The second day opened with a devotion by Franklin Francis, secretary, who emphasized  the accessibility of  LEs to diverse sections of society. Kishore Gill presented: The Importance of Publishing Ministry and Personal Selling & Relationship and Barkat Masih  LE’s Morale Ethics& Working Policies. In the evening worship Davis Gardner emphasized on the importance of the publishing work. The third day began with devotion by Shekhar Chand, treasurer emphasizing the role of LE in reaching the unreached with the life saving gospel through printed pages. “In God’s vineyard there is work for every one of us and we all will be rewarded equally at the end of the day,” he said. During the vespers Barkat Masih spoke on the last call of the Lord to all from Mathew 20:1-16. He emphasized “children, youth, adult and aged are invited to work in His vineyard.” On Sabbath, Kishore Gill, the divine speaker challenged the congregation to support the printed page ministry. On Sabbath evening  seven candidates were consecrated to do God’s work Vijay Baria, Dinesh Baria, Ganeshwar Baria, Amandeep Singh, Kulvender Singh, Rakesh Garasiya and Kachrulal Garasiya.

Savita Chand, Communication Director, MBS

Adventist Media Centre Reaches Seven Cities

With Revival & Reformation Message

Revival and Reformation is the need of the hour for the Adventist church in India.  Reaching to the city audience is the most difficult task in the present days.  The World Church is focusing on cities around the globe in the year 2013.  Adventist Media Centre, Pune, planned to reach seven cities of India with the Revival and Reformation message. 

Robert Antony Williams, a renowned speaker and evangelist from United Kingdom was the main speaker for the meetings. The campaign began with Pune city; Salisbury Park English Church was the first place where we began the meetings on 13-9-13. On Sabbath, Spicer College church was blessed by the message from Robert Williams.  In the evening a seminar was arranged for the top dignitaries of Pune.  The Topic was Economic Mess- Is there a way Out? The top officials of Pune were blessed by the presentations of Robert Antony Williams.

The next place was Ottaplam in Kerala, known as God’s own country. On 16-9-13 the staff from hospital, school and other church members gathered together for the meetings. The preacher encouraged the people to commit their lives for the mission of Christ. Then we moved to Chennai, a metropolitan city in south, a different kind of meeting was arranged in Thambaram church.  On 17-9-13 South East India Union arranged for a union wide pastors’ conference for the entire field of Chennai.  Robert Antony Williams encouraged the pastors to address the challenges that they face with God.   Edison Samraj took two sessions on practical issues.  On 19-9-13 Robert Williams addressed the pastors of Bangalore Metro conference with some practical difficulties that pastors are facing in the city.  The same evening a special Revival and Reformation meeting was arranged in the Spencer School Auditorium.  All the people who attended the program  were blessed. On 20-9-13 the South Central India Union arranged a special devotion for the office staff.  Robert Williams preached on the topic of Immanuel, God with Us. During the vespers all the English churches in Bangalore had a combined service in the auditorium.  Sabbath service was arranged in Cunningham Road English church.  A youth forum was organized in the afternoon where many youth participated. On 22-9-13 the meetings were conducted in Hyderabad. A non Adventist congregations invited the preacher to preach in their churches.  Deeven Kumar, senior pastor, Rock Memorial church arranged three important services, each service was attended by 1500-2000 believers. Jacob Chinnappa, CEO of famous Religious Channel Rakshna Television arranged for an interview with Robert Williams & Edison Samraj. People were blessed by the messages of Robert Williams. Then at shilling, a Daniel and Revelation Seminar was conducted. Two days intensive Bible study was a blessing to the community of believers.  On 26-9-13 a studio was completely sponsored by the laity of the church was inaugurated. The campaign of carrying the Revival and Reformation messages to the seven cities came to climax in Delhi. Robert Williams delivered a special messages and people in Delhi were blessed by them. We want to thank the officers of the Seven Unions of Southern Asia Division, for the support and cooperation given to us during this long and tiring tour from Pune to Delhi. We hope and trust that the church will focus more on Revival and Reformation messages in the future. We want the readers to pray for the work and plans of Adventist Media Centre, Pune.    Ashok Kumar, AMC, Pune

Loma Linda & GC Education Department Officials Meet Indian Embassy Official

   
 Dr. Richard Hart, President, Loma Linda University; Dr. Patricia S. Jones, School of Nursing, LLU; Dr. Lisa Beardsley, Director, Education Dept of GC; Dr. Hudson Kibuuka, Associate Director, Education Dept. of GC; Dr. John Stanley, Lead Consultant, Quintesse Consultants, Bangalore, India; and myself had a conference with Mr. Tarun Mohinder, Counselor, Science & Technology, Embassy of India in Washington, DC about the possibility of LLU School of Nursing's degrees being accepted by the Indian Nursing Board and also about LLU's programs acceptance by India's University Grants Commission and the Government of India.  Soon after the arrival of India's new Counselor, Education at the Embassy of India in early December, Loma Linda University will invite them to visit them  and make recommendations to the authorities in India. Dr. John Stanley, a very experienced expert and well versed in these type of negotiations, helped very much. My contacts with the Indian Ambassador and other senior Embassy
officials for over 40 years helped make this meeting possible. Our meeting exceeded more than an hour and we had a very profitable, productive and helpful suggestions from Mr. Tarun Mohinder at the Embassy of India. I remember how, with the help of our beloved late Elder Neal C. Wilson in 1996, I was able to get Loma Linda University and the Health Department of Kerala State Government to sign a MoU in upgrading and training Emergency Room doctors and nurses of Trivandrum & Kottayam Medical Colleges of Kerala at Loma Linda University. Hon. A K Antony, Defense Minister of India now, was then the Chief Minister of Kerala State and a MoU was signed on February 17, 1996 in his office by Mr. G. K. Pillai, IAS (Retried Home Secretary) and Dr. Joan Coggin, Vice President, LLU.  It was a great program; and exchange of personnel for training and upgrade were initiated. (taken from SUD e-News, Nov 3, 2013)
                                                                     Sunny Wycliffe <sunnywycliffe@gmail.com>

 Khurda School recovers from the ruins caused by Phailin, the cyclonic storm

Khurda school witnessed yet another severe cyclonic storm after 1999 super cyclone. The campus dwellers had a harrowing time with strong winds and rain lashing at Khurda on October 12 Saturday night. When the cyclone was gaining strength, the anxiety was mounting as there was several huge trees in front of the quarters and back as well. The campus plunged into darkness for several days as the high tension electric towers and the posts were ravaged in the calamity. There was an acute scarcity of water for several days. Later it was met with the help of energy  powered by a hired generator. More than 166 trees were uprooted among which 122 were teaks. The walking path was damaged and the boundary wall collapsed in several places as a result of falling of huge trees upon it. The most heart rending sight was the that the roof of the auditorium has been completely destroyed when a huge gulmohar tree fell on it. For some time students and the staff  were left with no place to worship God on the Sabbath. We gathered in different groups in dining hall and conference room for worship. All the staff and teachers worked sincerely to restore mormalcy on the school premises. Now we are steadily recovering from all the ruins caused by the cyclone. We are thankful to the Almighty that He has kept everyone safe in His arms without any causality. Santhamma George, communication secretary

Sikkim Evangelistic Meeting

On October 9-13 an evangelistic meeting was conducted at Adventist Tarpin Church campus in Eastern Sikkim. During the five day meeting, members from various communities-- Buddhists, Hindus, other Christian denominations and a host of Sikkim Adventist members attended. The theme was “Behold I am coming soon”. There were lively songs by Sikkim Adventist youth choir, prayer bands, personal witnessing, health power point presentation, gospel messages and counseling guidance. The Lord has been so good throughout the meeting to share the end time messages. Sikkim is a Buddhist state and there is great scope for evangelism to save the perishing souls. We want to thank brother Udip and Ambika Thapa for coordinating this meeting with Thapa Adventist church members. Special thanks to our entire Adventist church officials for support and prayer.                                                                P K Tamsang, Director Sikkim- Darjeeling Hill Circle

Year End Budget Meeting Highlights

Nomination Committee:

                Trust Services Director:                                 Gompa Devadas

                Nepal  Secretary Treasuer:         

The Norm has been raised for 2014-2015 to Rs. 8000.00

Sponsorship Announcement 2014

Candidates who wish to apply for sponsorship at CMC Vellore and Ludhiana for MBBS, BDA,BPT (Physiotherapy), BOT (Occupational Therapy) or Diploma  Paramedical Courses  should write for a Sponsorship Applications Form to:  M Antto Jayseelan, Sponsorship Secretary Southern of Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists, Box 2, HCF, Hosur, 635 110, Tamil Nadu before March 10, 2014.

Hosur Jeevan Jyothi English Church, Youth Camp at Thrissur

The Jeevan Jyothi English Church at Hosur had the Youth Camp at Thrissur, Kerala from October 18-21, 2013.  The theme of the camp was “Connecting with Jesus”.  There were about 52 campers who stayed at “Darsana Pastoral Centre” which is beautifully surrounded by mountains, Peechi Dam and greeneries.   We the campers started at 7:15 from Hosur by Intercity express   and reached Thrissur at 4:30 p.m.  The camp started with devotion by Micha Aruldas, youth director, South West India Union.  The program schedule was so busy kept us very active throughout the camp.  Every officer was responsible for the devotions and sessions. During the camp we have organized six sessions such as “facing failure, Courtship and marriage, to grow in Self esteem, How to make a difference? and many more.  The resource personnel were Maywald Jesudass, Ratna Maywald, Daryl Joshua, Micha Aruldas and Susan Frederick.  The young people were challenged from the various devotions and sessions.   The young people of our church believe that the Lord has called them to make a difference where God would lead them. 

We were able to minister at the Ottapalam Church and the Thiruvilwamala Church on the Sabbath. The young people have conducted various activities in both of the churches during the Sabbath school, divine service and Adventist youth meeting. The Sunday October 20, 2013 was a busy day for all of us visiting various places of interest in and around Thrissur.

The concluding session was taken Le Roy Samuel on the theme: We Need You Lord. He focused on the essence of an intimate relationship by connecting with Jesus Christ. All of us gathered in a circle and concluded the session with a dedicatory prayer by Micah Aruldas. We left the camp site at 9:00 am on October 21, 2013 and reached Hosur on that same evening by Inter City Express. We thank the Lord for keeping all of us safe and sound. Also we thank Maywald Jesudas, pastor and Jeevan Jyothi English Church Board, Hosur for supporting the young people for the camp and encouraging them in the activities of the church.                                                    Leroy Samuel Associate treasurer, SUD.

REVIVAL MEETING OF EASTERN JHARKHAND SECTION

The Eastern Jharkhand Section Revival Meeting was held from October 23 – 26, 2013 at SDA School Bisunpur, Taljhari Sahibganj.  More than 1100 people came for this meeting, in spite of the effect of Phailine Cycle.  There was nonstop rain, but they did not complain and carried their luggage on their shoulders and reach the place safely because there is hardly any vehicle to ride on this road. The place is remote and very few vehicles only run on this road.

The Theme of this meeting was John 8:32“You will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free.”The Section President, Pr Alfred Kisku took the inauguration service. Dr Edison Samraj, DirectorAdventist Media Center was the guest speaker for this meeting. Also Pr CS Marandi (Retired) and Pr RPSingh, SS/Personal Ministry, Director were present. Dr Edison Samraj gave heart touching message. Each time he spoke there were tears in the eyes of each listener. Special prayer was offered on Friday evening. A devil possessed boy came up to the rostrumand after much prayer and struggle the boy was set free.  Pr Sujal Kisku, Dept Director was the translator for this meeting. On the same day three couples were married during this meeting. Pr CS Marandi gave tips on Small Group Ministry. Each lay people to partner with God to win souls for his kingdom. Pr RP Singh gave out picture rolls to 60 lay people who have won souls for the church.

Sabbath has been raining, but we kept on praying, the rain can be seen all around but in our campus there was not much rain. We had 85 Baptism on Sabbath Morning and Bibles were distributed to the Baptismal Candidates.  Dr E Samraj took the Devine Service and gave Inspiring message presented to the congregation. There was water everywhere under the Pandal but all the members heard the message attentively and were richly blessed. All returned joyfully praising God who has done miracle in our lives.

                                                       Martha Kisku, Director WM/Children & Shepherdess

Children’s  Ministries  Advisory  ECIU

South  East  Andhra  Section,  Hope  Centre,  Ongole

“Building for Eternity  “ Was the motto of Children’s   Ministry Advisory of East  Central  India  Union  of   SDA,  Hyderabad.  For the success of any program, three  things  are  important,  Budget,  Presentations  and  food  accommodation  relished with  the  hospitality  of  the  local  leaders . 

All  the  above  fineries  were  extended for  the  success  of  the  Advisory  held  at  Hope  Centre ,  South  East  Andhra  Section, Ongole   from August  30 - 1^st  of  September 2013.   The  resource    personnel  were   Dr.  Ch.  Victor  Sam,  CHM    Dir.  SUD  and  Dr.  M  Wilson,  President,  ECIU.    The  Topics  dealt  were,  “  Importance  of   Training  Children  in  Church”,   “ E G  White’s  Counsels  on  Min.  to  Children,”   “Programmes  for  the  Local  Church “,  “ 8  Characteristics  of  a  Healthy  Children’s  Ministries,”  and  “  Programmes  that  reach   New  Children”.  

The  Directors  and  their  delegates  from  nine  units( Guntur Region,Hyderabad Section, North Rayalaseema, North East Andhra,North Orissa Region, North West Andhra, Odisha, South Andhra,South East Andhra,and South Rayalaseema Section) of  East  Central  India  Union  were  highly  enriched  by  all  presentations.  We  had   lively song  services  to  warm  up.   After  the  Sabbath, the  Hope  Centre  leadership  had  taken  all  to  the seashore.    The  accommodation,  healthy  and  delicious  meals  served  and  the  hospitality  shown  by  the  South  East  Andhra  Section  had  enriched  the  program. 

We  would  like  to  express  our  heartfelt  gratitude  to  resource  people  for  their  wonderful  presentations.  And  also  we  would  like  to  profoundly  thank   Pr. Ch.  John  Victor,  the  President,  South  East  Andhra  Section  and  his  subordinates  for  their  homely  hospitality.   And  of  course  all  the   Unit  Administrators  for  gracious  enough  to  send   their  Directors  with  delegates  with  the  contribution  towards  expense.   Above  all  thank  God  for  His  leading  through out  the  success  of  the  Program.

We express our displeasure to the units who failed to co-operate in attending the ADVISORY in spite of all information sent. Kindly try to extend your co-operation next time.

                             Sofia Wilson,  DirectorShepherdess and  Children   Ministries - ECIU

SOUTH CENTRAL INDIA UNION

PASTORS AND WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

AUGUST 21-24, 2013

Paul prayed for believers at Colossia.  He asked God to give them complete knowledge of God’s will and grant them spiritual wisdom and understanding.  So that the way they live will always honour and please the Lord, and their lives will produce every kind of good fruit.  (Col 1:9,10).  This was the prayer of South Central India Union (SCIU) for their pastors and their spouses.  And the prayer was answered in holding Union Wide Pastors and Women’s Conference from August 21-24, 2013 at Claret Nivas, Carmelram, Bangalore-560035.

This is a beautiful retreat centre.  Seventy pastors and forty shepherdesses participated in the activities of the conferences.  The day began early for the pastors and their spouses.  The methods of personal devotion, physical exercise, etc were presented to help and enrich them in their personal and family life.

The formal presentations centred on “Empowered by the Holy Spirit”, the theme of the Conference.  Personal spiritual growth, - Revival and the Community, church growth – Revival and Reformation were stressed upon.  Effective witnessing is the result of one’s genuine spiritual stand, was dealt effectively.  Pastoral leadership of the church, its ups and downs were discussed well for the good assimilation of the participants.  The individuals who made valuable presentation included Pr. Jothi Anbiah, Pr. L C Colney, Pr. Robert Clive, Pr. Paulraj Isiah, Pr. Cyril Monthero, Pr. Lawrence and Pr. Christian from Romania, Pr. D Padmaraj, Pr. Peter C Halemane and others.

Shepherdess were blessed with presentations on small group Bible studies, prayer, Sabbath observance, effective witnessing in and out of church etc.  The resource personnel included Mrs. Rosenita Christo, Mrs. Hepzibah Kore, Mrs. Eshwaramma and others.

The Conference concluded with the impressive Sabbath service and ordination of seven pastoral couple for the service of God.  The ordained pastors are Pr. Johnson Y, Pr. Babu H, Pr. Manuel YS, Pr. Dhanraj .S, Pr. Hanock Raj, Pr. P Shadrack, Pr. S Rajkumar.

The SCIU Ministerial Association expresses its gratitude to the Division, Union and its sub units for their co-operation in God’s service.  Heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Alwyn Devaraj and others for the financial support. All praises to God for enabling them to work for Him.                      Pr. Peter C Halemane, SecretaryMinisterial Association, SCIU

Mrs. A. M. Job

            Mrs. A. M. Job (Ramabai Rukmani Mudaliar) passed away on November 10, 2013, at 92. Her husband, Pastor A. M. Job, predeceased her in February 2012. Ramabai, her sister (Mrs. M. Amirtham) and two brothers were born in Rangoon. The family was brought to the truth by Elder J. Philips. After the passing away of her parents, Ramabai and her siblings were brought to India by Pastor Prasada Rao, and were placed in the Prakasapuram boarding school. In December 1935, Ramabai married A. M. Job and lived to celebrate 76 years of married life. Pastor and Mrs. Job spent all their married life in the cause of Adventist education in many places in Southern Asia Division, including Salisbury Park where he founded the first school, Kudikadu, and Spicer. Wherever the family moved, she chose to focus on raising a family on Christian values. She was blessed with the ability to converse in regional languages, sing in a choir, cook nutritious well-balanced meals, and was meticulous in sewing, knitting, and embroidery. She loved music and reflected this through playing the harmonium and singing soprano in the Salisbury Park church choir. After Pastor Job's retirement, the two lived in Vellore where they enriched the church and CMC student life. Mrs. Job was blessed with good health throughout her long life, until the void left by her husband's passing away and the frailty of age led her to rest in the hope of the resurrection that she accepted in Rangoon. Mourning her loss are her children and their spouses Alexander and Leela, Sarojini and M. M. Raj, Prabha and Vick, Jayakaran and Leela, 6 grandchildren (Gina, Lenox, Allen, Priya, Anu, and Shanthi) and 5 great-grandchildren (Raylen, Malia, Asha, Seth, and Yohan). John M. Fowler

Mrs. Ellen White Sunderam

Ellen was born to Arulanandam and Pushpammal in 1949 at Tuticorin. She had her schooling in ED Thomas Higher secondary school till 1970. She was married to Mariappan in July 13, 1977. They were blessed with a son and two daughters. She was suffering from Neuro problem and breathed her last on Sept 13, 2013. She leaves behind her husband, son, two daughters and their spouses, a grand child and a host of relatives. John Justin, Secretary, TK Section

Mrs. Vimala John

Born in Murkuperi, on 28th Dec, 1939 to Gnanamani and Robert Duraiswamy. Educated in James memorial school. She was married to V. John in 1961, and started mission service at Rorkee. She joined Spicer Memorial College and completed her education after which she joined as a teacher in Falakata. from 1971-1979. She also worked in Jalandhar, Nedukandam, Kotagiri, Bangalore, KGF and Prakasapurum (James school). Following her  retirement, she continued her service as a teacher at a reach school for 2 more years. She also served as teacher and headmistress at a Muslim school for 4 years. She was always active, a loving mother, patient and kind teacher and a faithful worker in God’s vineyard. She leaves behind her husband, Pr. John; 2 daughters, Julie and Maxine; their spouses; and 4 grandchildren. Maxine John

Nitin Singh (Ronnie)

Nitin Singh (Ronnie) was born to an Adventist couple, Elder J.P. Singh & Professor Catherine on Dec. 23, 1982 in Agra, a city of Tajmahal. He was brought up in Adventist environment and got his schooling education from St. Peter’s College, Agra and Secondary and BBA from Roorkee Adventist College, Roorkee (Uttranachal). Then he went to Bangalore for his MBA but due to ill health he could not complete his Master’s Degree. On 13 September, 2013 midnight around 12:10 a.m., he fell asleep in Jesus due to high viral fever arrested for last 5 – 6 days. He was 31. His sweet smile drew people to him. He left behind his father J.P. Singh and mother Prof. Catherine and younger sister Rini. With great hope in our hearts, we look forward to the second coming of our dear Lord Jesus when we meet and be united with him and all our other loved ones who are asleep in Jesus, our Saviour.

Pastor John Samuel Undrasapu

Pastor U John Samuel born to Mrs. And Mr. Undrasapu Samuel and Rachelamma on November 14, 1930 in a village called Maredubaka 3 K M away from Madapeta, East Godavari District. After completing His School education he obtained Minsterial training from Lowry and joined pastoral ministry in 1959 worked in Santanmagulur, Atkur, Gudem Madhavaram, Palakol  and Madapeta. And retired  from active service  in 1996. 

He was suddenly bed-ridden for the last 3 months due to his old age and wife took care of him dearly. He was 83 years of age. The entire church anointed him on November 9, 2013 at 3:30 pm and he breathed his last at exactly 4 pm on November 9, 2013, on Saturday, his favorite day. He leaves behind his beloved wife, 2 sons, 2 daughters, 2 daughters in law, 2 sons in law and 8 grand children.                                                                    Ms. U Katherina Rajan, grand daughter.

Dr. Mrs. Barbara Yvonne Bazliel

Dr. Mrs. Barbara Yvonne Bazliel passed away on December 9, 2013. Yvonne Bazliel is a Jamaican Doctor, who has spent almost her entire professional life serving in mission hospitals in the Indian sub continent and Myanmar.  She and her husband, a Hospital Administrator, reside in Shimla and are deeply attached to the people and awe-inspiring mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India, where she has spent the past 37 years.

As a surgeon and physician she had the capacity of endearing patients to herself. In the State of Himachal Pradesh she came to be known as the “Lady Doctor” who was sometimes referred to as a ‘god’ amongst those who believed in many gods.  Even today as she traverses terrain in a wheel chair, tear filled people hold her hand and look into the face of the soft, warm hearted Doctor they once knew to have unbounded energy and unlimited expertise.

In 1985 while practicing as a surgeon, she came down with a medical problem which was wrongly diagnosed at the PGI Chandigarh.  She was also put on the wrong medications.  After 5 months she was taken to Bangkok where it was discovered that there was a large brain tumor present.  Following surgery she had three complications which left her with a right sided paralysis.

Following a second brain surgery in Loma Linda, California she underwent extensive physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology.  On her return to India she handled an administrative job which dealt with Health and Temperance work.  She retired from active work in 1990.

Schools News

Week of Prayer at Ibrahimpatnam.

Week of Prayer was held from October 21- 26, 2013 at Secondary School Church, Ibrahimpatnam.  Pr. Terry Messenger, Executive Secretary, South Engand Conference of SDA London was the speaker along with his wife Mrs. Lynette  Messenger. The theme of the Week of prayer was “Living in the Smart Lane”  ively song  service and inspiring messages thrilled the

children and staff. On October 26, 2013 was  special Sabbath for the Ibrahimpatnam school and was blessed  with profitable week of prayer sessions.

Usilmapatti Church Dedication

By the grace of God, Usilampatti School got  a golden opportunity to construct a beautiful church inside the school campus. It was a glorious day   on 7^th of August 2013 Pr. Chelladurai, president  of south East India Union of SDAm declared open the Church building and Pr. Ambrose  dedicated the Church. It was a blessed day for all the Usilampatti Church members and  School workers.    Joseph Moses, Principal and pastor of SDA Church Usilampatti.

Childrens  fest in Chittur School

21^st November 2013  was a colourful day for all the children of Chittur SDA School because the day was childrens  festival. Mrs. Ch. Krupa Victor. Director children ministries, SouthEst Andhra Section Ongol was the chief guest for the program and the program started with children exhibit their talents. Children recited memory text repeated the texts of the Bible for which they given prizes. Afternoon they had fancy dress  parade with colourfull dress  for which also prizes were given out.

Adventist Lay Pastor / Youth Evangelist Ministers Global Church

 Michael Pedrin, a youth lay pastor from our division, travels around the world   to conduct seminars and evangelistic meetings across the world as he gets invitation from the churches in different countries. Michael is a good Bible scholar and a lay evangelist who loves to share his knowledge with God’s people around the world. He and his family of 5 brothers and 2 sisters, along with their late mother joined the Adventist church in the early 1990s, coming from Catholic background.

Since January 2004 the Lord called Michael to take up His work as a lay pastor in Mangalore which is a coastal city in South West India in Karnataka state.  The staunch Catholic soil is now penetrated and there is a congregation of around 40 members worshipping God every Sabbath. Along with his brother David, Michael takes care of the Mangalore church.

Michael in Manchester and London

Since two years the Lord started to marvelously open doors worldwide for Michael to share God’s precious message. He is invited to address specific topics and also conduct revival meetings. His travel as an international evangelist began in May 2011 when the British Union Conference (BUC) invited Michael to be part of the ‘Core of Adventism’ where preachers, mostly from America, are invited to do series of meetings in the British Union territory in different churches for a week, and also have special meetings for pastors and elders of the area.

 The year 2012 was a busy year for Michael Pedrin, as he was invited to 5 countries to do series of meetings. In April he was called to California to do presentations on the Lunar Sabbath issue. He has done an in-depth research on this topic, and has written a book on it which was reviewed by the then Director of the Biblical Research Institute (BRI) of the General
Conference, Dr Angel M. Rodriguez.

In May 2012 the BUC invited him again to be a speaker for the “Core of Adventism” program where he did a series at Hounslow SDA church, and also had meetings in different churches in London area. In June the Malaysian Union invited him to be one of the main speakers for the AYC. Michael was back in the UK in July to do a 2-week revival series at Hope Community Church in London.

The Calgary Central Church in Alberta, Canada, was facing a serious issue on the Lunar Sabbath doctrine, where they had to finally dis-fellowship 9 members. And the church leaders there read Michael’s book on his website and decided to call him to help them out. In September/October last year he did a series on the Lunar Sabbath for that church. And by God’s grace this series had an impact that stopped further people from getting trapped into it. The busy year ended up in Africa where he was called to minister to the
saints of God there in a camp meeting at Kampala, a district in Uganda where he was the main speaker touching on the topic of “Revive for Mission”.

2013 has been a busy one as well. The Garden Road SDA church in Calgary, Alberta, who heard him speak earlier, asked him to come back to do a 2-week series on “The Saving Power of the Cross” in April. They were richly blessed by it and wanted him back to do a prophecy series next May. The BUC called him back this year as well in May to do a series in North England Conference in Sheffield area where he ministered in 3 locations, and rounded it up with a ‘Day of Fellowship’ in Leeds where 17 churches gathered together for the final Sabbath.

He was back in the UK again in September/October for 2 series which were arranged by  Ebenezer Daniel, an Indian pastor settled in the UK. In Manchester North he took a week-long series on “Knowing the Time”, and in Manchester South his series was entitled “The New Covenant”.  The Southern Asian church members in the Manchester area were blessed as well by these presentations. Michael travelled to the Middle East in November 2013. He has 10-12 days of meetings in Doha, Qatar. He also spoke in our church in Sharjah, and had a meeting in Dubai. The Lord has already opened doors for him during the whole year through to travel to the UK, Canada, Ireland, and Italy as for now.

Apart from the international travels Michael has travelled a few places in India for meetings. He did a week of revival meetings in Bidar, Karnataka in 2011, conducted  week of prayer for 2 schools there. Also he did a week long meetings in White Memorial College in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, in October 2011. Early this year in February the Garo Section in Mehgalaya invited Michael to do a series on the Lunar Sabbath as they had some members go into it. And in May/June 2013 Michael did a series of Evangelistic meetings on the book of Daniel in Vellore.
He is very grateful to the Division, Union and Section leaders for the full support and encouragement they are giving him to carry on the good work of preaching the gospel everywhere. He asks all to pray for him as he serves God and His beloved Seventh Day Adventist Church in his capacity as a lay pastor and evangelist.
                                               Ramani Kurian, Asst. Communication director, SUD
 

Editorial: Ramani Kurian

Doers Of The Word Build Securely

It is the desire of our Creator God to get all the human beings, whom He created for His pleasure, to the heavenly kingdom where there is no pain, suffering, or death. Initially God created our first parents with the intention of providing them eternal home. When they disobeyed His word, became victims of Satan and sin, they defeated God’s intention. But the loving God did not leave the fallen human race; He sent His only Son to redeem us from sin by sacrificing His life on the cross.  He still loves us and longs to see us get into heaven to live with Him eternally. From time to time He spoke to the human race through the prophets conveying the message of obedience to His word. He provided us the Holy Scriptures for our instruction. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works”, 2 Timothy 3: 16. God’s word is truth for He is truth. Obedience to the word of God is supreme. Disobedience of God’s word led to the fall of our first parents and consequently the entire human race fell under the shadow of sin and suffering.

God calls each one of us to come out of this pathetic condition to be obedient children of God.People, in general, have come under the influence of Satan, the devil, who is trying his level best to destroy every one of us from establishing right relation with God who is longing to save us to the kingdom of heaven. God admonishes us,“Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment”, Exodus 23:2. In following God and doing His word, we may not have many friends, we may have to do it by ‘oneself’. We don’t need to be afraid of standing alone for the truth or for God. God and the hosts of heaven will be with us as long as we are the doers of His word, though the multitude is against us. To be singular because it is necessary to be so as the result of worshipping God and Him only, places Heaven's dignity upon man. We must not be afraid of being singular when duty requires us to be thus to exalt and honor God. We need to stand alone, if necessary, for the sake of avoiding sin and dishonor to God. And in this case we are not to mind even the multitude who are against us. "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil." The experience of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego is recorded in the Holy Scriptures for our admonition and spiritual nourishment. “It may appear to the world a very small matter for the Christian to be in harmony with the world by just the act of keeping Sunday for the Sabbath in the place of the seventh day, but God's Word says the seventh day is My holy day. The man of sin says, "I make a Sabbath for you and you must keep the first day of the week." God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, neither is it the national establishment, neither is it the various denominations; it is the people who love God and keep His commandments. "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20). Where Christ is even among the humble few, this is Christ's church, for the presence of the High and Holy One who inhabiteth eternity can alone constitute a church.

Where two or three are present who love and obey the commandments of God, Jesus there presides, let it be in the desolate place of the earth, in the wilderness, in the city enclosed in prison walls. The glory of God has penetrated the prison walls, flooding with glorious beams of heavenly light the darkest dungeon. His saints may suffer, but their sufferings will, like the apostles of old, spread their faith and win souls to Christ and glorify His holy name. The bitterest opposition expressed by those who hate God's great moral standard of righteousness should not and will not shake the steadfast soul who trusts fully in God... They that will be doers of the word are building securely, and the tempest and storm of persecution will not shake their foundation, because their souls are rooted to the eternal Rock.” (Letter 108, October 28, 1886, to her older sister and her husband who had not accepted the Sabbath truth). We need to obey all the commandments of God, not only Sabbath, to be the doers of His word.

Pathfinder Induction Ceremony: Division Headquarters Church, Hosur

Counselors                                                                 Sponsor delivers message                     Pathfinders among audience

The pathfinder club of Jeevan Jyothi English church, Hosur has been faithfully ministering to the needs of the Adventist Junior Youth in Hosur for several years. This year, 2014, the club had a very good beginning, with an enrolment of more than 65 members enrolled themselves into the club, 30 adventurers and 32 pathfinders. We also have candidates enrolled for the leadership training courses i.e.  Master Guide, Pathfinder Leadership Award & Pathfinder Instructor Award. All the members of the club were actively involved in the marching during the Republic day celebration on Division campus. This year the club members are divided into 7 units and each unit has a captain and a scribe to lead. The units also have unit counselors.

The unique and special event for the club this year was the ‘Induction Ceremony’ which was held on the 31^st of January, 2014. The induction ceremony marked the process where the members are officially admitted into the club and were asked to make a public proclamation of their willingness to be members and be guided by the club rules. The AY classes of the various levels starting from pre-adventurer, adventurer and going up to the pathfinder, have members taking the courses. The induction ceremony is primarily a candle lighting ceremony and there were 7 colour candles placed at the centre table representing the six classes in the pathfinder club from Friend to Guide and one candle for Adventurers. The six colour candles were blue, red, green, silver, purple, and yellow and the candle representing the Adventurer club was a multi colour candle. In addition to this there were 7 candles on the left of the centre table representing the pathfinder pledge and 8 candles on the right of the centre table representing the pathfinder law. At the centre of the stage there was a spiral candle representing the spirit of pathfindering.

The program began with a lively song service after which the club sponsor delivered a message on ‘Light Bearers’ quoting the story of Gideon in the Bible after which he declared open the induction service. The club director and the deputy directors explained the pathfinder badge and its meaning, the Adventurer pledge and law were recited and pathfinder pledge and law as well.  The pathfinder director lit the spirit of pathfindering candle which represents the spirit of adventure, fun, learning, camaraderie, awareness, and awakening, and above all a spirit of reverence, and a spirit of service to God and man. 

The pathfinders who represented the various classes recited the purpose of each class and received a candle from the counselor and took the flame from the spirit of pathfindering candle and lit the respective candles.  After which the counselor asked the members to respond if they were willing to join the classes, for which the candidates responded by saying ‘Yes I do’.

The same process was repeated for lighting the candles representing the Pathfinder Law and the Pledge.  In conclusion, the pathfinders and adventurers were given one candle each to light from the spirit of pathfindering candle and make their commitment. The induction ceremony ended with a special song sung by all the members ‘Running up the highway’ and a consecration prayer was offered.                                                                                                                                                   Eben Anbiah, pathfinder director, Jeevan Jyothi English church, Hosur

Women’s Ministries Seminar: Lowry English Church

The Women’s Ministries department of Lowry English church held a seminar under the title “We can make a difference” at Carmelram Centre, Bangalore from January 10^th evening to January 11^th evening. During the vespers, presentations on “The role of woman as wife” were made by Jennifer Prakasam and “Role of woman as mother” by Joyce Paulraj followed by a prayer session by Vasantha David.  Sabbath School Lesson study was a panel discussion headed by Helen Solomon.  The first session after the lesson study was taken by Alice Joseph who spoke on

the topic “Growing in Jesus”.  The second session was taken by Priscilla Christo who spoke on “Women’s Health Issues”.  The 3^rd session was taken by Rani Rao who spoke on “The Fragrance of Life”.  In the afternoon, Daisy Rajkumar spoke on the topic “Women to women”.  The last session for the day was taken by Narendra Rao who spoke on “Healthy life style”.  He gave wonderful tips on good health and long life. These sessions taken by the Adventist medical doctors were enriching and beneficial to all who attended.  Finally a consecration service was conducted by Cyril Monthero, president, South Central India Union calling all the women to make a difference in the society and in the lives of their family members.  Dedicatory prayer was offered by Peter Halemane, ministerial director, South Central India Union.  The session was attended by 35 women of our church.                                                                                                                  Jennifer Prakasam

Republic Day Celebration at Division Headquarters, Hosur

 Southern Asia Division office family celebrated the Republic day in the campus under the leadership of the social committee.   K S Narenderan (former state vice president of Bharatiya Janata Party of Tamil Nadu) was the chief guest. The program started with an opening prayer by Selvin Moorthy, under treasurer, SUD and then the pathfinders marched in colorful uniform with flags, after which the color party marched with the chief guest to hoist the flag. R John, president, SUD who introduced the chief guest, made introductory remarks stressing the humanitarian work of the church in India.  A pathfinder, Prince John, presented a poem on freedom and  Ritu Chand, another pathfinder,  spoke on Republic day.  The chief guest challenged the people about our national obligations for unity of the country, in spite of having diversity in religion and culture throughout India. Closing prayer was offered by T P Kurian. The program came to a close after a cultural show by children.                                                                            Ramani Kurian, SUD 

Dr Chacko M Paul Launches Book

January 11, 2014 was a high day in the history of Spicer College family in general and in the family of Chacko M Paul in particular when it saw the launching of his book entitled “Syrian Christians: One Tradition, Many Faces” at his residence at 7:30 pm at the hands of the college president Justus Devadas in the presence of the college administrators and family friends, followed by felicitous messages from friends and VPAA which finally culminated in dinner. The academic department of the college is happy and proud that after a brief spate of earning PhDs, an era of publishing books has started. The book, based on his doctoral thesis and containing 6 chapters and published by V Joshi and Co., Pune, deals with the origin, growth, and contribution of the Syrian Christian community in Kerala. Chacko Paul, a nephew of M E Cherian, former president of Spicer College, is the head of History department and director of Counseling and Guidance Centre at Spicer College. Being  a Syrian Christian himself, he has put his heart and soul in bringing out the life story of this special tribe in Kerala, God’s own country, which has by its unique and noble tradition, been dominating the churches (including SDA), convents, hospitals and schools not only in their state but in the country and beyond.

The Syrian Christians, quite ironically, are neither from Syria nor truly Christian, having borrowed or rather retained many practices from their original background of Hinduism, especially Brahmanism. The typical traditional attire of men consists of white shirts and dhotis while the women, especially old-timers, dressed in white close-necked blouses and lungis (modern wrap-arounds) with the pleats of an off-white half saree draped across, and lumps of gold loosely hanging or rather precariously dangling from their delicate sagging ear-lobes, may soon be a dying species. And their traditional appam (rice and coconut milk cake), and ‘kanji vellam’ after all, may not owe their origin to this community.

 Having spent seven of my most impressionable years at the prestigious Mar Ivanios College, Trivandrum owned and operated by the Syrian Catholic management, I too have closely observed this community from close quarters, have been intrigued as well as impressed by their customs, traditions, culture, rituals, attire, and cuisine and have come to appreciate their broadness of mind, largeness of heart and loftiness of spirit. It is their tolerance and appreciation of all religions that helped scores of even non-Malayalee Adventist students to pursue higher studies quite peacefully in their institutions, being officially given Sabbath-offs and exempted from the compulsory NCC training and served milk or ‘vella chhaya’ (diluted and sweetened milk when the number  of Adventist students increased) instead of coffee or tea in the hostel mess and even granted admission to much sought-after postgraduate science courses -  hold your breath -  on their management quota, like me! And the ubiquitous presence of their cadre mainly in the area of education, health care, politics and religion all over the world speaks volumes of their dignity, dedication and devotion to duty. Prominent names in this community include Cherian, Kurian, Tharian, Ninan, Mathai (Mathew), Markose, Lukose, Paulose, Thomas, Varghese, Gheevarghese, Chacko etc. and certainly almost every hospital world-wide has either an Annamma, Ponnamma, Sosamma, Aleyamma, Mariamma, Kunjamma, or Kunjukunjamma, (though quite ironically no Marthamma)--- these angels of mercy who bring sinking patients back to life, not merely through their nursing care but through their personal touch--- a medley of voluble, incessant but friendly chatter, altruistic nature, joie de vivre, and dignity of labour, willing to do even the most menial jobs most gracefully. My hats off to them! May their tribe increase!

 In this book Chacko Paul discusses briefly the available sources that might provide historical validity to the traditions that Apostle Thomas established Christianity in Kerala. He also provides short descriptions of the main beliefs, practices, habits, major milestones and the denominational branches of the most influential Christians of Kerala. It is a historical, Archaeological and Anthropological study about a community which has made significant contribution in the religious, social and political fabric of India. Read this book, if you wish to learn more about them.  It is priced just at Rs 120 (about $ 2 only) and one may contact Dr Chacko Paul at +91 9850907153  or <madathumchal @yahoo.com>   for a personal copy.                                                               S Rajendra Prasad, VPAA,Spicer Memorial College

Youth Convention in Ramnad Section

                Sivagangai Ramnad Section in South East India Union held a two day section wide youth convention at Manamadurai from Oct 19-20,2013. Young people from all over the section participated and were united as one in the word of God. They dedicated themselves to the Lord through prayers and songs. “Living to the Lord” was the theme of the convention. An Adventist youth, Arun, presented a topic on ‘Second Innings’ in which he stressed that God gives second chance to all.  The guest speaker was Lazarus Ponumuthu, youth director, SEIU. A significant time was devoted to prayer session and Bible study by local church pastor, John Wesley. During the divine service Jeeva Ponnappa, section president, gave an inspiring message on ‘I am a youth, I can’t- from the book of Jeremiah” and the next day he presented a topic on “Role of youth in church leadership”. Morning devotion was led by Joshua, accountant, Manamadurai School. At the close of the convention the youth re-dedicated their lives for the service of the Lord Jesus. Manamadurai church and school assisted to have this successful program.                                                                                                    Jeeva Ponnappa, president, Sivagangai-Ramnad section

Evangelistic Meeting at PERAIYOOR in Ramnad Sivagangai Section

William George, a retired department director from Southern Asia Division conducted an evangelistic meeting at Peraiyoor, from Nov 7-17 2013, in Ramnad District where we have no Adventist presence. This place is located 10 kilometers away from Kamuthi; which has multiple ethnic groups, having tension between groups.  However, we spent much time in prayer for the campaign and it was begun successfully.

Prior to the meeting Sivagangai -Ramnad Section organized a free medical camp with the help of Vasan Eye Care group. More than 150 people were benefited through the free eye camp. This campaign had  great impact on the community and on Adventist church as well.

 We felt the power of God in a mighty way and discovered the joy of reaching people with the Gospel in Peraiyoor. Because of the systematic ground work, we were able to conduct the meeting successfully. Health talks were presented by John Wesley, Manamadurai church pastor before the preaching. During the Sabbath days, Jeeva Ponnappa conducted Daniel’s seminar. At the close of the meetings 26 people were baptized. Jeeva, local section president with his team of gospel ministers, is doing the follow-up work resulted in 11 more baptism. When we focus on mission together, the Spirit of the Lord does more than we expect.  Some more people are getting ready to join the remnant group. More than 60 children participated every night in the separate meeting conducted by Ravi Chandran, church pastor, Parlachi. We want to express our deep appreciation to William George and his family members for their financial contribution towards the meeting. We want to appreciate the following dedicated servants of the Lord Manikaraj, John Wesley, Ccely Vethamuthu, Samuel Abraham, Yesudhas, Ravi, Ravi Chandran, Moses, Tamilarasi and Indira. The section treasurer P David was the one who co-ordinated the whole campaign.

Jeeva Ponnappa, Sivagangai-Ramnad Section President                                                                                           

New Church Building Dedicated in Sivagangai-Ramnad section

 24^th Nov 2013, Sunday morning was a joyous occasion for the members of Koothalur church and the  Sivagangai-Ramnad Section team members as they received a newly constructed church building. Koothalur which is about 5 Kms away from Karaikudi in Sivaganagi-Ramnad Section got the building project a year ago through a missionary group. It was begun with the prayer and was completed in November. Jayson Jayabarathan, director, Mount Zion Engineering College, Pudukottai led out in the construction work and completed perfectly. The church dedication service was conducted on 24^th November 2013. Believers and the pastors from neighboring churches; Samuel Jebamani, Pudukottai Region and the members of Mt. Zion family gathered for the occasion which began with an unveiling of the stone by Arockiamary, the land donor and Florence Jayabarathan followed by the ribbon cutting ceremony led by Jayabarathan Chellaiah; the chairman, Mt.Zion Engineering College and opened the doors of the church for worship.

            The church service was led by K.Samuel and N.David, a retiree, native of the Koothalur church read the history of the church and Jeeva Ponnappa delivered the sermon on “the meaning of the church and the responsibility of the church believers”. Other leaders present were P.David, section treasurer; Samuel Jebamani, PDK director; Russul John, Monikaraj, John Wesley, Michael, I.Jesudhas, N.Ravi, A.Samuel, Samraj and Isacc, treasurer,Manamadurai school. Mrs. Jayabarathan narrated how the church building began to take shape and the members of the Chula Vista church, California jointly took up the challenge sacrificially to build the church. This building was dedicated by Jeeva, the local field president and he thanked Jayson who took personal interest to complete the work. This service was ended with a fellowship lunch. We would like to thank the dedicated members of the Chula Vista church, California for their willingness to provide financial support to build this church for our members here.

Jeeva Ponnappa , SRS president

Tenth Anniversary Celebrations at School for Speech and Hearing Impaired, Kollegal

 Seventh-Day Adventist School for Speech and Hearing Impaired held the first School-day program cum celebration of 10 years of the school in the present campus. The celebrations were held in the school campus on November 22, 2013. We were honored by the presence of

distinguished guests from Southern Asian Division, Ambassadors of Asian Aid from Australia, leaders from South-Central India Union and from the local community. Jothi Anbiah, vice president, Southern Asia Division who is also the chairman of the Asian Aid work in India gave the key-note address and set the tone for the festivities titled “Celebrations: Love, Joy, hope.” The dignitaries, including former administrators, teachers, and principals, were honored with mementoes thanking them for their contribution in the development of our special school. The present and former students were also honored for their accomplishment in academics.  The formal program also included a report by Tammy Moses, Project Manager, Asian Aid of the school development projects undertaken by Asian Aid to enrich the learning experience of the children. Tammy also addressed the parents and audience about the importance of child protection and child welfare in the context of special children. Dedicatory prayer by Peter and  remarks by Samuel Thason were followed by colorful cultural programs performed by the children.We thank God for His love and mercy over our school and thank the sponsors, management, teachers, parents and well-wishers for the prayers, contributions and support for the growth of our school.                                                                                                                                            Jacob Bhaggien, Principal

EASTERN UTTAR PRADESH REGION: 1000 YOUTH EVANGELISM TRAINING PROGRAM  

The Seventh - day Adventist church in Eastern UP Region, Varanasi invited more than 300 youth and young adults for a historic youth evangelism training program from November 7-10, 2013.It has been such an accomplishment to unite youth and family and share spiritual messages, spend time with each other, pray together and unify efforts to continue the great mission to spread the gospel.  The key thought based on John 12: 36 “While ye are in the light; believe in the Light that ye may be called the children of light” spiritually uplifted everyone.  M.M Bhatti, Kishore Gill, Surendra Lall and Promila Lall were the resource personnel. M.M Bhatti, youth director, Northern India Union encouraged the youth to share their talents to uplift spiritual environment of the church to fulfill its mission. Surendra Lall counseled on evangelism by the youth to the youth for Christ. Kishore Gill presented health topics: charcoal therapy, water therapy, massage, healthy lifestyle which were very beneficial. Promila Lall presented some inspirational power point on prayer, exercise and nurture.

On Sabbath16 November, 2013 46 persons including youth and young adults accepted the Seventh-Day Adventist doctrines and joined the church through baptism. One of the remarkable things happened first time in the evangelism meeting in Varanasi was that people from other denominations-- Pentecostal, Anglican, Roman Catholic, Asia Suyogi organization, Isai Mahasang etc. attended the meetings on special invitation and voluntarily assisted us in the arrangements and functions. They were impressed about SDA teaching and lifestyle. 80 young people purchased 25 copies each (2000 copies) @ Rs 20/- per copy of “The Great Hope”, to be distributed in their respective areas. This convention gave every individual present an opportunity to renew their commitment and calling. In consecration every one lighted the candle symbolically carrying the light received from the word of God to their respective places so that they may be called the children of light and the gospel commission can be carried forward in un-entered areas.                                                                                                                                  Surendra Lall, director, Eastern Uttar Pradesh Region

Centenary Celebration: South West India Union                                            

As the President of South West India Union of Seventh-day Adventists during this centenary year it is my privilege to bring this good tidings pertaining to our work in Kerala for this past 100 years. “It was in the year 1914 Suvishesha Muthu, a literature evangelist from Prakashapuram, Tamil Nadu, came to Trivandrum and sold some books to M. Abel, who was a Salvation Army captain. The books were entitled: ‘Who changed the Sabbath’, ‘Present Truth’, ‘Steps to Christ’ etc. After reading these books carefully he was convinced that the true day of worship is Saturday, which is the Sabbath created by God. Abel secretly contacted Suvishesha Muthu and other leaders in Nazareth, near Prakashapuram. He continued to study the Bible more and was fully convinced that the Seventh day is the Sabbath day. They invited Abel to Nazareth to be baptised. After baptism, he resigned his job as Salvation Army captain and started preaching the Sabbath truth and three angels’ messages in Trivandrum and neighbouring areas. In the year 1915, Abel, while engaged in his ministry, came to Vadacode, near Neyyattinkara and talked about the Sabbath to many people. Some of them studied the scriptures deeply, specially on the topic of Sabbath and were convinced. As a result, they organized the first Sabbath school in Vadacode. Ninty-nine years passed after Suvishesha Muthu sowed the seed of the remnant message in Kerala. Therefore, as members of the SDA Church in Kerala, we are privileged to celebrate this year as the centenary year.

 From 1914 onwards, the Adventism in Kerala grew up slowly withstanding many problems & difficulties. But by the grace of God, we could accomplish many things for His cause. At present our statistics is as follows: Churches            226, Congregations101, Boarding Schools 3, Day Schools 21. Compared to the growth of Christianity in the first century, this growth might be very insignificant, but my beloved, we can be proud of the legacy of our forefathers. The one who planted the first church in Kerala or the one who nurtured it are not with us today, but they live in our memories. Now we are privileged to celebrate the centenary year of our existence and service in Kerala. The contribution of the church in the field of education, evangelism and health is commendable.

Our centenary celebration will be held in Trivandrum on October 24 and 25, 2014. Ted C Wilson, president of the World Church, along with his wife Nancy, has consented to be present for the occasion. We are planning to make this event a grand and memorable one.  As part of the centenary celebrations, we would like to complete some projects all over South West India Union. We need your prayers and support.

Selvamoni  Yovan, president, SWIU

 Adventist Lay Person at the Service of Mentally Challenged Destitute

On Friday, November 29, 2013, as my husband and I walked into the campus of Integrated New Life Society for Education and Development (INSED), Sungareddy, Andhra Predesh, we were welcomed by a host of mentally challenged inmates of the institution. Some of them were

Manohar with family

 engaged in garden work, some were just sitting and enjoying the sunlight, waved their hands at us with broad smiles and some were indifferent. We were really impressed by the way those unfortunate ones were taken care of by one Adventist lay member, M Manohar, advocate, founder and president, INSED and his family. There are 72 inmates including 4 children born to mentally challenged young mothers, women who were picked up and brought to INSED as they wandered along the streets. Some of the inmates are highly educated and occupied positions in the society.

            TP Kurian & Ramani Kurian with inmates                                   Manohar  with workers  of INSED

INSED is a voluntary organization established in the year 2000 under societies Registration Act 1350, with its Registration No.1667/2000. Its Head quarters is located at Sangareddy, Medak Dist. Andhra Pradesh. The main motive of this organization is to Render Service To The Mentally challenged Destitute Of The Society.

It all started when Manohar, watched a young mother pick up plastics from the garbage to protect her child from the falling rain. In his own words, “Once when I was in Abids Road, Hyderabad, I saw an incident which caught my attention and which moved my spirit with in my heart and made me take a strong decision to serve the mentally ill.  It happened on 22-8-1999 at about 2.30 in the afternoon. That day it was raining heavily and I took shelter under the footpath roof in Abids along with some other people.  I saw a mentally ill woman, half naked and fully wet, collecting plastics from the dust bin and carrying them near to a concrete beam. There I saw a baby about 10 to 15 days old. The baby was completely drenched in rain water, shivering and crying loudly. The mother wrapped the baby with plastics from toe to neck. “Being in a state of mentally unsound, if she can express her love towards her child, what about we being mentally sound?”  This scene moved my heart, and then I decided to dedicate my life to serve the mentally ill destitute”.

Manohar approached  government officials, political leaders and other well wishers for support and assistance. God graciously opened the hearts of many of them and the District Collectors  came forward to support Manoharan’s efforts wholeheartedly. They provided land and constructed a new home and office for INSED near the government hospital, Sangareddy. The inmates are provided with free medical treatment and food by the hospital administration. Already more than 214 people had come to normalcy and joined their families who received them with gladness. In spite of opposition from different corners, Manohar is doing his best to serve these unfortunate ones. His desire is to open one rehabilitation center for mentally challenged destitute in each city of India. He believes that God will perform miracles if we trust Him and dedicate our lives to serve our fellow beings which is the desire of our heavenly Father too.                                                                                                                                                   Ramani Kurian,  assistant communication director,  SUD

Spicer’s Invitation to the Centennial Book of Honour

As part of the centennial celebrations, Spicer College plans to bring out a “Book of Honours” which is meant for its alumni, faculty, staff and students as well as its friends and well-wishers who wish to honour and immortalize the memory of any one near and dear to them, like their parents, spouse, guardian, teacher, or other relative(s), etc, by dedicating a page or half in this prestigious publication. This book will have about 300 colour pages (A4 size and 130 gsm thickness) and case binding finish.

The prescribed rates are: NRIs & Foreigners : Paper Size:     Full page: US $350; Half page: US $225; Quarter page: US $ 125

Indians: Paper Size: Full page: Rs 20,000;     Half page: Rs 12,500; Quarter page: Rs 7,500

Those who wish to avail of this privilege at first-come-first-served basis are requested to send the photo(s) and write-up of the person(s) whom they wish to honour along with the prescribed fee as a crossed Cheque or Demand Draft drawn in favour of “SPICER MEMORIAL COLLEGE”by registered mail to Dr Noble Prasad Pilli, chairman; Book of Honours Committee; Spicer Memorial College; Aundh Road; Ganeshkhind Post; Pune 411007, INDIA, by April 30, 2014. Noble Pilli can also be contacted by phone Nos: +91-20-25807005 (office) and +91-9890908187 (Mobile) and email address: noble_pilli@hotmail.com .

Spicer’s Invitation for the Centennial Theme Song:

Spicer College also invites from its alumni, faculty, staff and students as well as its friends and well-wishers the centennial theme song (lyrics / music / both) on the theme “Celebrating 100 Years of Holistic Education”. A handsome cash prize will be given to the one whose composition is selected with consolation prizes for the next 5 best ones. All those who have the skills of composing lyrics and music are invited to send their compositions to Mary Davy, chairman; Centenary Music Committee; Spicer Memorial College; Aundh Road; Ganeshkhind Post; Pune 411007, INDIA, by April 30, 2014. Mary Davy can also be contacted by phone Nos: +91-20-25699759 (office) and +91-8888014961 (Mobile) and email address: tomarydavy@yahoo.com .

Spicer Family Worships in the Old Auditorium Again

It was a nostalgic moment for the Spicer family, especially for the old timers, when because of the painting work going on in the house of worship, the last weekend services were held back in the old Auditorium after a gap of 7 years and 8 months (with many language groups meeting elsewhere to ease the congestion). Many people sat just where they used to sit in the former days and were reminiscing the bygone era. The preachers, Vanlaltluanga Khuma on Friday and Noble Pilli on Saturday, recalled some interesting events, before they delivered their sermons, and even remarked that perhaps every seventh year they should have at least one week-end service in this old place just to remember their origins before moving into the grand spacious edifice. T I Abraham, who was on the stage to offer the pastoral prayer later walked down to sit with his family under the balcony to re-live the old memories, perhaps. Sitting more or less where I used to sit those days, I too recollected exactly where M E Cherian used to sit, N O Mathews used to stand and George and Gordon Jenson lead the choirs during their time, not forgetting various other events like graduations, weddings, etc. including an amusing anecdote  when someone plugged the church props labeled “Mothers with Baby” and “Visitors” on the bench where  Emile John and  Benny Prasad Chikatla were once sitting with their visiting septuagenarian mothers during the divine service and  Franklin Samraj sitting just behind them showing this to everyone sitting in his row.

Surely, it is nice to come back to old place sometimes, if only to reflect on the way God has led us through the years. On further reflection, could this perhaps be the plausible reason why God wanted the children of Israel to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles even after reaching Canaan in the days of yore and expects His people to return to their home on the earth made new after spending a millennium with Him in His heavenly home?                                                                                                                              Rajendra Prasad, VPAA, Spicer College

10^TH GNM GRADUATION & 3^RD BSc LAMP LIGHTING CEREMONY OF SDA SCHOOL & COLLEGE OF NURSING, OTTAPALAM, KERALA.

The 10th Graduation programme for the SDA School of Nursing & 3^rd Lamp Lighting ceremony for the SDA College of Nursing, Ottapalam was held from Jan 10^th– 12^th, 2014.  Alamgir Khan, treasurer, Medical Trust was the guest speaker for the consecration ceremony. He charged the graduates to serve with benevolence.

G S Robert Clive, treasurer, Southern Asia Division delivered the baccalaureate address emphasizing serving with excellence. His message was an inspiration to all to excel in various fields of service. K Mohandas, vice chancellor, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur was the chief guest. Susamma Varghese, president of KNMC & principal, Government School of Nursing, Trivandrum delivered presidential address.   Jasmine Ruby, deputy nursing superintendent, CMC Hospital, Vellore was the guest of honor.  Renjith John Jacob, medical director, SDA Hospital, Ottapalam gave the charge to the graduating class and formally accepted the freshers. We thank the Lord Almighty for His abundant blessings and leading thus far.

 South Rayalaseema Celebrated Children's Day at Mentally Retarded Home for Children

November 14th was a blessed and delightful day for all the children at the retarded home for children at Rayalaseema. The Children Ministries director Florence Raj, along with the section president, secretary, treasurer, and with other sub-ordinates visited the home. The team took time to clean their dwelling place and distributed fruits and sweets to all the children, sang songs and had short meditation from the scriptures. It was really a delightful day.

      Florence also initiated in conducting shepherdess council at Cudapah main school. Around 120 shepherdesses have gathered. M. Wilson, the president of ECIU and Sofia Wilson had admonished them and instructed them how they needed to support the ministry of their spouses. The shepherdesses were also trained how to make use of their leisure time. It was really an educative session. Thank God for the opportunity extended by our section leaders.

Mrs. Prakash.   

Inauguration of a new church in Sikkim

A new church was inaugurated on November 17, 2013 in Darjeeling main town. Officials from North Bengal section and director of Hill circle and AFM officials attended this beautiful function. The ground work for the church plantation was initiated by brother Sunil Marjee, Naresh Tudu  P.K. Tamsang and Jonathan Tamsang. Earlier L F Lyngdo and S B Bairagi conducted revival meetings in Darjeeling and strengthened the work.

 Tarpin,  first  Adventist church, Sikkim conducted the annual outreach program on December 10, 2103. Hundreds of members from Eastern Sikkim town and villages attended the meeting.  The local government officials and journalists attended and appreciated the ministry of Seventh-day Adventists in Sikkim, a Buddhist state. A small rural medical clinic, initiated by Gospel Outreach with the help of Beverly Thomson, is doing wonderful service to the community.                                                                                 P K Tamsang

Announcement

 Helping Hand Welfare Society seeks the following Personnel

Assistant Director--‐Programs

Development Project Manager

Project Coordinator Karnataka (1), Bengal (1)

For details Contact: Mr. David Keeler <director@hhws.org>

Mrs. Tammy Moses <tammy@hhws.org>

Award of PhD Degree to Nalina Robert Donald

Nalina Robert Donald was awarded PhD degree by Bangalore University on January 24, 2014. Her research topic was “ A study on the contributions of the Christian hymns and spiritual songs to the development of Kannada language and literature”. She is a professor of Kannada, working as the vice principal of APS College of Arts and Commerce, Bangalore University. She is a member of Central English Church, Bangalore.                                                                                                                                                     Robert Donald,  SUD

Adventist Appointed Deputy Director of Christian Medical College & Hospital, Vellore

The following announcement was made in the current weekly Christian Medical College & Hospital newsletter: "Mrs. Jasmin Anand, Professor of Medical-Surgical Nursing and Head of Medical Surgical Nursing-Specialty II, is appointed Deputy Director (Nursing and Campus Development) with effect from January 13, 2014 for a four year term”.  An Adventist, Jasmin Ruby Anand has just completed a term as the Deputy Nursing Superintendent. She is a Professor at the College of Nursing, CMC and also serves as the Head of the Departments of Cardiology and Cardio-thoracic Nursing. She is a member of the Adventist Medical Trust Board that runs our hospitals. She has served in the Adventist School of Nursing, Surat as tutor and as Principal at the School of Nursing, SDA Hospital, Nuzivd, AP. She was trained in Loma Linda University in Cardiac Transplant. She is passionate about Adventist Lifestyle. She is invited to give health messages on Adventist Lifestyle in effort meetings, churches and pastors’ meetings. She also runs a Cardiac Lifestyle Unit in CMC&H. Jasmin Ruby is the daughter of  Pr. G. Isaiah –former Publishing department director of Southern Asia Division and married to Dr. Anand Manuel. They are blessed with two children- Corrine ( BDS)  and Cheryl ( Class 12 ). It is a very joyous moment for us, conservative Adventists in Vellore. We wish her God's blessings as she continues to serve in CMC.

    -- Dr. David Mathew, Asst. Professor, CMCH Vellore

Wedding Bells

Rajesh with Sonia:Rajesh s/o Kbita & Robin Kumar Sahu and Sonia d/o Beena & Baby John T W  were united in marriage on Sunday 19^th January, 2014 at Seventh-day Adventist church, Kaloor, Kochi, Kerala.

Chandrasekhar with Leena: Chandrasekhar s/o  Kamala & Jaywant Peter and Leena d/o Saroja & Mariswamy were united in holy matrimony on Sunday 19^th January at  Lowry Memorial English church  Krishnarajapuram,  Bangalore.

Robin Rajkumar with Anu Joyce: Robin Rajkumars/o Sheela & Sampath and Anu Joyce d/o  Pushparani and Pushparaj Samuel were united in holy matrimony on Sunday, 16^th February 2014 at Seventh-day Adventist  Central Tamil church, Spencer Road, Bangalore.

58^th Garo Annual Meeting, Bajengdoba, Meghalaya

The 58th Garo annual meeting was held at Bajengdoba, Meghalaya from January 29^th– 1^st February 2014.  The theme of the meeting was “Pressing Upward.” The main speakers were G S Robert Clive, Division treasurer and his wife, B R Sangma, Division associate secretary and his wife, P Passi, treasurer, North East India Union, and P Kullu, Union Education director. They encouraged each delegate to be faithful in their beliefs. More than five thousand delegates from different churches and companies from Assam and Meghalaya attended the meeting. All the delegates stayed in their own tents and prepared their own food. It was like old Israelites participating the day of atonement ceremony. Tents were prepared in all directions of the main pandal that is situated at the center site of the area. During the annual meeting, thirty precious souls prepared by the churches and companies of Garo Hills were baptized. Different programs for children and youth were arranged during the meeting. Section departmental director assigned different speakers for children and youth. Everyday there was nature talk, Bible story and games for children.

The speakers of the annual meeting encouraged delegates to press upward spiritually and be faithful till the final journey on this earth.  Divine hour speaker was Robert Clive who gave an encouraging message to the large congregation.  Around 100 delegates from Khasi Jaintia conference came to witness the annual sobha. Delegates were spiritually uplifted and ready to press upward till the end of their journey to be recipient of the waiting crown for the redeemed saints of the Lord.                                                                    B.G. Momin, Communication director, Garo Section

Obituary

Yesuputhri Sharp

Yesuputhri was born to protestant parents on July 4, 1941. After her highschool she was converted to Adventist faith and  married to Granvel Sharp on August 18, 1950.  She assisted her husband in his ministry enthusiastically. She was interested in visiting sick and poor to assist them, conducting branch sabbath school and spreading the adventist message all around she lived. After the retirement of her husband, they settled in Chamrajnagar and continued the ministry of serving the Lord. She died on July 17, 2013 due to massive heart attack. Mourning her death are her husband--Pr. G Sharp; daughters-- Jackline, Roseline, Shila, Leah and their spouses, 7 grand children and a host of relatives and friends. We remnisced her love for church and family and looking forward to meet her on the resurrection morning. Leah Edwin

Roosevelt Cherukuri                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Roosvelt was born to Victor Sam and Sulochana on July 5, 1974. He had his schooling in Flaiz Memorial and Spicer high schools. He married Glory in 2002. Initially he worked as a literature evangelist and after completing MA BEd he took up teaching profession. In 2011 he joined Fjarli Academy of Seventh- day Adventists, Rajanpalli, Darsi. While working there, he had to go through some physical challenges and unexpectedly breathed his last on 16^th January 2014. He leaves behind his parents, his wife and two daughters Rhesa    PrVictor Sam, SUD

Pr. and Mrs. Sadashiv Bhaurao Shinde

  It is a rare occurrence that both husband and wife pass away within a week. Sadashiv Shinde passed away on 31 January, 2014 and his wife, Suman on February 7, 2014.Sadashiv was born on March 06, 1924 to Padabai and Bhaurao Shinde in Chokak Kolhapur district.  He had his schooling at Lasalgaon high school and higher education in SpicerMemorialCollege.  His commitment to the truth led him back to Kolhapur to work among his people.  He married  Suman Mahapure and they were blessed with three children--- son Shashikant, daughters Sheela and Sunanada.His interest to serve the Lord took him all over Maharashtra and he was ever willing to the task set before him.  The Lord used his talents to serve the church in various capacities as pastor, mentor, teacher, departmental director, evangelist and chaplain.  He was honest, diligent in his work that led to the establishment of many companies and churches and won many souls to the kingdom of God.After an active life in the church, he retired to a semi-active life for 30 long years and was living at Asha Park Housing Society, Market Yard, Pune. His motto and advice to anyone was, “NEVER GIVE UP, KEEP LOOKING UP,  JESUS IS COMING SOON”.  He rests with the assurance that when the trump will sound he will be among those who are waiting eagerly for that great day

 Suman Shinde                                                                                                                  

Suman  was born on June 24, 1929 to Housabai and Chandrasen Mahapure in Pargaon Kodoli Kolhapur district. She did her schooling in Lasalgaon high school. On completion, she moved to SpicerMemorialCollege for further education. She was married to Sadashiv Shinde.  After marriage,  both of them started their career at Kumboj district Kolhapur. She was committed to the Lord’s ministry. She always supported her husband in evangelism. Her dedication and commitment towards the church was her first priority. She was honest, diligent in her work and supported her husband 40 years in his ministry.  Suman was always a loving and caring person,  jovial and cheerful. She and her husband were always found together, whether it was church service or functions or at home and even in death-- a week apart. We look forward to meet her on that ‘Great Day’ of resurrection.They leave behind their children— Shashikant;  Sheela and Sunanda--- daughter-in-law Nirmala; sons-in-law Johnny Sudhakar and Vinay Ohal; grandchildren Swapna, Swaroop, Veeraj,  Sarang and a host of relatives, friends and well-wishers.

Richard Gladson Wilson

 Richard  was born to Wilson Vethamuthu and Annapoornam in SpicerCollege, Pune on March 31,1964. Richard had his education from elementary to college in SpicerMemorialCollege. He considered himself as an ardent disciple of Christ and servant of God. He consistently demonstrated a genuine love for Christ and His mission by actively participating in pathfinders and master guide programs as well as leading out in community outreach activities through Rotaract club of Pune North. He worked in PuneAdventistHospital as accountant and then as business manager at Scheer Memorial Hospital, Assam Training School, GiffardMemorialHospital and  Southern Asia Division head quarters in provident fund department before taking up his responsibility in RoorkeeAdventistCollege. He married Purna Laxmi Shrestha on June 6,1993. They are blessed with two sons.  Richard excelled as a good father, husband and a loyal & faithful mission worker. For the last few months Richard was confronted with health issues and was admitted in the hospital.  On 24^th February, 2014 he breathed his last.  He leaves behind his father Mr. Wilson; wife Purna; sons Cris and Kevin; brothers, Swanson, Paulson, Samuel; sister Ruth and a host of relatives. 

Global Adventist Internet Network (GAiN)  Conference  2014, Maryland, USA

Pushing the boundaries is no longer enough. Seventh-day Adventist tech and media professionals at this year’s Global Adventist Internet Network conference were challenged to leave the boundaries in the rearview mirror or risk becoming irrelevant. Speaking at morning worship February 13, Pardon Mwansa, a general vice president for the Adventist world church, told hundreds of Web professionals that the “boundary mindset” and the “expansion mindset” are limiting the scope of Adventist mission and ministry. A boundary mindset is throttled by traditions; an expansion mindset is content reimagining those traditions. What’s needed instead, he said, is a “creation mindset.” “It’s easier to go where others have already been. But who is it who has improved this world? People who have broken the boundaries,” Mwansa said, citing early explorers, civil rights leaders and tech innovators. “We will not get anywhere with a boundary mindset,” he told 400 GAiN participants meeting at the Conference Center at the Maritime Institute in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, United States.

Author and marketing consultant Martha Gabriel amplified that idea in her February 14 keynote, describing what she called “simplicity plateaus,” where an organization stagnates at a level of technology they have mastered. “We can’t stay here. Know the next level you need to conquer,” she said. And, perhaps more importantly, she added, know your audience. In today’s “attention economy,” messages compete for relevance, Gabriel said. Organizations that thrive in the attention economy know that the currency of ideas and information is no longer enough to succeed. “Ideas alone are worthless. What we need now are people who make things happen,” Gabriel said. For Adventist pastor Sam Neves and a development team from the church’s British Union Conference, that meant not waiting for the church to get behind a comic book style trivia game called “Heroes.” The first Seventh-day Adventist game for iPhone and iPad, “Heroes” was downloaded 3,000 times in the first 48 hours of its release, tripling the benchmark analysts say a mobile app should meet in its first week to be considered successful.

On the final day of GAiN, the Adventist world church Youth Ministries department signed a deal to help support the Android release of “Heroes.” The game reintroduces players to heroic biblical characters—such as Abraham, David and Esther—while testing their Bible knowledge with quiz questions. Players can compare scores with their friends on Facebook. At GAiN, a demo of the game pitted players from the church’s Trans-European Division with other divisions. “We realized that to bring a sense of identity to a new generation, we needed to remind them of who their heroes are,” Neves said. “And what better way, than to use a medium they are very familiar with?”

Indeed, said Daryl Gungadoo, distribution and network engineer for Adventist World Radio Europe, “gamification” is the new frontier and successful companies will find ways to engage their audience with games.He cited an example from Sweden, where a marketing campaign from Volkswagen turned the oft-loathed speed cameras into a lottery, where people who drive the speed limit are automatically entered into a pool to win the fines paid by motorists who speed. 

Another presenter challenged the popular adage that “content is king” in social media. Sonja Kovacevic, content manager of LIFEconnect in the church’s Trans-European Division, proposed that instead, “the audience is king.” “[Our audience] prefers to trust someone they know. And they come to know us when we offer useful content. They come to like us when they enjoy our content. And they come to trust us when our content is credible, consistent and free,” Kovacevic said. Brazilian businessman and philanthropist Milton Soldani Afonso received this year's NetAward from Adventist Church President Ted N. C. Wilson. Afonso was key in establishing and funding the AdventistChurch's use of media outreach in South America. “Even more than his money, his vision for the church in communication and technology has been his greatest contribution,” said Williams Costa Jr., Communication director for the Adventist world church. This year’s GAiN conference also featured a presentation by Antonio Monteiro, who was released last month from a prison in Togo after nearly two years of detainment. Monteiro and four others were imprisoned on charges of conspiracy to commit murder in a case that captured the attention of the Adventist world church.

Courtesy: ANN Bulletin, February 18, 2014

Ledership development meeting  - Udaipur                                                                 Treasurer's Council in Hydrabad

Editorial: Ramani Kurian

Many are called, but few are chosen

As we look at the growth rate in the Seventh-day Adventist Global Church, we see a large number is being added to the Church daily.  I am sure that all are called by God because it is God’s desire to save every one of us. As called out by God, we need to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn more about Him and His word. When the word of God gets rooted in us, our faith increases and we will trust in the power of God and obey His word. “You have many things to learn, and much to unlearn. You will have to sit at the feet of the great Teacher and learn of him concerning themes that are higher and nobler than the themes which now engage your attention. I am free to address you who have shut yourselves away from the light, because I know that a higher Teacher than man is calling you. You have lost much in your religious life, because you have failed to improve the opportunities that have been presented to you from the Father of lights. Fresh rays of light from heaven are always given that the character may be transformed, that the soul may be able to contemplate truth in a new relation. When Jesus is welcomed into the heart, he will refine and mould and fashion the character. Those who receive him more fully, will not have less energy in their religious life, but their religion will be of a higher, holier type than ever before. They will work in such a way that their usefulness will be increased. God would have his professed children reach a higher standard, and ever go on, still reaching up to that which they have not attained. They should cherish every divine inspiration, for as his property he requires this of them”. The Signs of the Times, August 27, 1894:

Our Father in heaven is all powerful to fulfill His desire for us. But He expects us to play our role faithfully. Many come into the church with various purposes in mind and try to achieve them by different means which are unacceptable to God and leave the church when they fail. The apostate members are not chosen by God. They are under the influence of Satan.  Lamentations 1:10: The adversary has spread out his hand upon all her pleasant things: for she has seen that the heathen entered into her sanctuary, whom thou didst command that they should not enter into thy congregation. Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 231: The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects; he has gained control of the apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be required to render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who will be true to God and to duty will be betrayed "both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends." [Luke 21:16]

We need to follow His ways to be the chosen ones, of whom  God speaks,“Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it to you.”John 15:16. Those who are chosen by God are ordained to go and bring forth fruit that should remain. What kind of fruit Jesus wants His chosen ones to bear?  Galatians 5: 22 & 23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance”. Jesus’ intention for His chosen ones is to bear this fruit. This is the character of Jesus who sacrificed His life on the cross for us, His enemies. He has set an example that we should love not only our friends,  but even our enemies. That is how we will become peculiar people, somebody different from the ordinary or nominal Christians. In Mathew 5:44 He admonishes us, “ But I say unto you, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you”. It’s a difficult task when we think about it humanly. But nothing is impossible with God. The last part of John 15: 16 says whatsoever ye shall ask of the father in my name, he may give it to you”. If you are a chosen child of God who bears the fruit that will remain, you will never lack the power to overcome evil with good. That is the assurance Jesus has given.                                                                          

The Desire of Ages, p. 489: “The True Witness says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock." Rev. 3:20. Every warning, reproof, and entreaty in the word of God or through His messengers is a knock at the door of the heart. It is the voice of Jesus asking for entrance. With every knock unheeded, the disposition to open becomes weaker. The impressions of the Holy Spirit if disregarded today, will not be as strong tomorrow. The heart becomes less impressible, and lapses into a perilous unconsciousness of the shortness of life, and of the great eternity beyond. Our condemnation in the judgment will not result from the fact that we have been in error, but from the fact that we have neglected heaven-sent opportunities for learning what is truth”. Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 608: ...I was shown the startling fact that but a small portion of those who now profess the truth will be sanctified by it and be saved. Many will get above the simplicity of the work. They will conform to the world, cherish idols, and become spiritually dead. The humble, self-sacrificing followers of Jesus will pass on to perfection, leaving behind the indifferent and lovers of the world.

My prayer is that those who are guilty of the sins, will repent before the chance is lost. The Creator of the universe waits with open arms to accept you back. He does not want any of His children to die the eternal death. He wants you home. Will you respond to His invitation to be among the few who are chosen?     

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MEETING - UDAIPUR

A Leadership Development Meeting was held from February 19 - 22, 2014 at Oriental Palace Resorts, Udaipur.  Udaipur is called as Lake City, Zinc City and also known as Second Kashmir of India.  The meetings commenced on 19th February, Wednesday afternoon.  The delegates comprising of union, conference and section presidents arrived enthusiastically and were given a warm welcome.  The meeting began with the inaugural address by R.John, president, Southern Asia Division.  "I have chosen you and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit......" (John 15:16) was the key note of the address. Pardon Mwansa, vice president, General Conference, was the chief resource person.  He was given a special welcome in the traditional Rajasthani style.  The first session began immediately after the inauguration.  The delegates were divided into seven groups, after an intense discussion, they pooled in their thoughts on the topic " Mission and Leadership", examining three Biblical and two non-biblical examples. The session concluded with the group, learning about the mission of the church and the role of leadership in leading others to understand and implement the mission of the church. 

Day Two, began with a sumptuous breakfast followed by a solemn prayer session.  Mwansa highlighted the day with a study on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem by Nehemiah - Ten principles of successful leadership--. 1.  Vision casting; 2.  Assessment of the situation; 3.  Source of success - praying for help; 4.  Dealing with obstacles/opposition, financial difficulties; 5.  Power of numbers; 6.  Team building - mobilizing a team; 7.  Hard Work; 8.  Attending to peoples' needs; 9.  Teaching the fundamentals and 10. Evaluation and celebrating success. The day concluded with a colourful and highly entertaining Rajasthani cultural fest.

 The final session was a discourse on "Leadership and Administration".  The delegates were edified on the following principles  a) Direction of the organization, b) Vision and mission, c) Empowering,  d) Problem solving ,e) System establishment and  f) Resource management.  They, then, enjoyed the afternoon sight-seeing historical places in Udaipur. SUD president, R.John, vice presidents Jothi Anbiah & Victor Sam were present throughout and gave inspiring, thought provoking messages.  Every morning and evening enlightening devotions were taken up by the union presidents--  L F Lyngdoh,  Ramesh Jadhav, Cyril Mantero and  Y. Selvamony.  Prayer sessions were conducted every day by M. Wilson .  Vespers began with joyful singing followed by an enriching message by Jothi Anbiah.  Sabbath morning dawned bright and fair, Ezras Lakra, NIU president conducted an interesting Sabbath school program.  "Leaders are called to bring the organization closer to the mission - mission accomplishment" was the message given by Pardon Mwansa during the divine service.  He beautifully enumerated citing examples - Noah's mission was to build an ark, Moses’ mission was to lead Israelites to Canaan, disciples’ mission was discipling all nations and concluded that the Seventh day Adventist mission should be to spread three angels’ message around the globe. The meeting came to a conclusion with a consecration service.  All the delegates resolved to be dedicated and committed to the gospel commission and to proclaim the three angels’ message.  The Leadership Development Meeting was really refreshing, awe inspiring and spiritual fulfilling.  Glory to God Almighty.

 M A Jayaseelan, Administrative Asst. to President, SUD

Division-wide Treasurers’ Council, Hyderabad                                              

 Resource personnel

The Southern Asia Division-wide Treasurers’ Council was held from February 4 – 7, 2014, at the Summer Green Resort in Hyderabad - the land of the spiciest of all Indian cuisines. The theme was ‘Commitment – The Key to Financial Self-Reliance in Southern Asia Division’.  Over 200 treasurers from the Division, Unions, Sections, Regions, Educational Institutions & Hospitals were part of this mega event.  It was great to see all the financial managers of Southern Asia Division convened in one place and interacting with each other. The East Central India Union and Hyderabad Metro Section warmly welcomed the treasury group.  During the felicitation, they attired G S Robert Clive like the Nizam of Hyderabad. In his key note address to the treasurers, Robert Clive stressed on the fact that realizing our goal to be a financially self-reliant church can only be achieved through a team effort, with all of us working together and not by one person or a few persons working towards it. He stated that committing our plans to God and being committed to achieve our goal are the only ways our plans will be successful.   He quoted Proverbs 16:3 which says: “Commit thy works/plans unto the Lord, He will direct you and crown your efforts with success." We were privileged to have two international resource personnel in Ann Gibson, professor Emirate, Andrews University, USA and Vincent Richard Injety, president, Helderberg College, South Africa, with us.  Their fabulous presentations dealt with important issues like Internal Control, Budgeting, Strategic Planning for Financial Self-Reliance and Asset Management. Alva from G.M Oka & Co and Nikita Radhakrishnan from Vishwanathan & Co who were part of our resource personnel team presented papers relating to external audit issues.  The three-day council was packed with sessions that gave us a road map to help us move towards becoming a financially self-reliant church.  The proceedings of each day began with powerful devotional thoughts from the scriptures presented by Vara Prasad Deepati, editor-in-chief, OWPH. He impressed upon the treasurers that ‘with God everything is possible.  God is willing to perform miracles and is ever willing to help us but He requires our co-operation to accomplish the task at hand’. The session materials, power-point presentations & policy items discussed were given to all the delegates in a flash drive for them to review and work on when they get back to their respective places of work.

Special health emphasis sessions based on the concept of “eat well, sleep well and walk well” were presented. The health presentations were very informative and motivated the entire group to a renewed focus on the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The accommodation facilities at Summer Green Resort were very comfortable.  The Resort Management provided us with tasty & spicy food.  The weather was surprisingly cool and pleasant throughout our stay there.  Robert Clive brought the curtains down on this council with his closing remarks and drew lessons from the fable “The Tortoise and the Hare”.  The lessons drawn were, never to give up when faced with failure, if things go wrong stop - re-evaluate and find a different and better way of doing the task at hand; to always keep in mind that fast and consistent will always beat the slow and steady, to compete against situations and not against persons, and that working as a team will always bring better results than individual performers.  He also highlighted the need for total commitment to achieve our goal of financial self-reliance in our Division.  We returned to our respective places, motivated to work together, equipped with valuable resources to guide us along the way and unforgettable memories etched in our minds. We also thank God for His guidance and His marvelous leading in every aspect of the council.                                                                                                                                            Riches Christian, Administrative Assistant to the Division Treasurer

SOUTHERN ASIA DIVISION SECRETARIAT EVALUATION

On March 4-6, 2014 the secretariat evaluations for the Southern Asia Division was conducted.  The participants for the evaluation were Agustin Galicia, GC associate secretary and Union/Conference/Section secretaries. The preparations and displays for the evaluations were well organized by the secretariat team under the leadership of Gordon Christo with his associates, Berun Sangma, P H Paulson and Gompa Devadas.

 The evaluation was classified into the following 6 subjects:  (1) Roles of the Secretary, (2)  Leadership Qualities, (3)  Relationships, (4) Internal Executive Responsibilities, (5)  Facilities, and (6)  Filing. The main purpose of the evaluation is not just to test, but to provide instructions, and strengthen or improve weak points.  The Union/Conference/Section secretaries were provided with tablets to upgrade their work.  The tablets were downloaded with policy books (Division and GC), employees’ handbook, church manual, Bible, church hymnal, EG White books, etc…  The secretaries had more learning experience regarding the church and secretariat work and its operations. After the evaluation, Agustin Galicia commended the Division secretary and his team for scoring in very good range on the assessment of the Division secretariat. The secretariat evaluation for the unions is conducted once every quinquennium.  Northern India Union, South Central India Union, and Western India Union completed their evaluation in the month of August 2013, scoring good to very good range on the assessment.  East Central India Union and South West India Union evaluation is scheduled in the month of May 2014.

Joy Edwin, secretariat, SUD

 Mission Andaman: The Youth Crusade Organized by Youth Department of Southern Asia Division 

 A group of 20 young people from Bangalore comprising of software engineers, doctors, nurses, teachers & others landed at Port Blair on March 17, 2014 for mission Andaman youth crusade. A rousing reception was given by the church members & the director of the region at the airport.  Dudley Ponnaiah, who worked as region director at Andaman was sent to make the ground preparation well in advance.  On March 18, a one day medical camp entitled " JEEVAN SHILEE " was held from 10.00 - 4.00 pm at Andhra Association hall at Port Blair. Nearly 101 members underwent B P, Lungs, Blood Sugar, MBI, & other tests. Dr WD Borge who was part of this camp

gave medical prescriptions to the people. This camp was well appreciated by people since it was a blessing to the people of Andaman who are usually deprived of even  basic medical assistance. All the young people were fully engaged in the camp till 4.00 pm. Medical ministry will definitely play a vital role in evangelizing the Islands of Andaman.

 The revival meetings were organized on March 18, 19 & 20 from 5.30 - 8.30 pm every day. Around 175 people comprising of church members, other Christians and Hindus attended the meetings. They were blessed by praise & worship, testimonies, health talks & spiritual messages. Dr. Borge talked on Diabetics, harmful effects of pan chewing & hypertension which are commonly seen in these Islands. Ravindra Shankar gave messages on Revival & Reformation. Special prayers were offered to the needy people. It was a very good experience for the young people who spoke, listened & prayed with the people every day. Many independent pastors who attended the meetings requested us to conduct more meetings of this nature. As a result of these meetings, an independent pastor and his family  (4 members ) took baptism on the Sabbath day . He is trying to bring the other members of his group to the fold of Adventist truth. We also visited many church members & prayed with them as an outreach activity. The group also distributed 300 Great Controversy books in Tamil. The Region director Prabudass & the temporary pastor John Raj extended their service to a large extent. All the church members came together in unity to support us. All of us worked together & supported one another to make this event a successful one. The group also visited the place where  1000 MM volunteers are staying. The group prayed with them & made them feel at home. The group raised  Rs.5000/- & donated the same to the these volunteers.                                                                             Baphyla Lyngdoh