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 30th 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 50th 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, Director Adventist Media Center was the guest speaker for this meeting. Also Pr CS Marandi (Retired) and Pr RP Singh, 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 rostrum and 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 - 1st 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, Secretary Ministerial 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 7th 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
21st 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
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
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