Nov - Dec , 2017

Volume 17
Number 06

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed

upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore
the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. ®
I John 3:1
New Southern Asia Tidings November - December, 2017
 Volume 17
Number 06 President



Ezras Lakra
Nov - Dec 2017 General Vice Presidents

Ch Victor Sam




Hidayat Masih
Adm. Assistant to the President

S Paulmoney

CONTENTS Adm. Assistant to Division President/

Directors
Srikanth Shendikey

3 Editorial - The Joy of Knowing Jesus Christ as Saviour Secretary



M Wilson

Associate Secretaries


Cyril Monthero
4 Sabbath School Teacher's Training



Benny Joseph
Kantharaj George
5 Records and Archives Management Training
Treasurer



P E Selvin Moorthy
Adm. Assistant to the Treasurer
Riches Christian
6 Dental Clinic Inauguration Under Treasurer


P LeRoy Samuel

6 Science Exhibition Associate Treasurers


Edwin Stanley

Enoch Manickam
6 Dorcas Society Meeting the Needs of the Society

Field Secretaries


Ramesh Y Jadhav
7 Dental Camp Conducted at Lowry School



G R Mohan Roy
Departments
7 Platinum Jubilee Celebrations Adventist Mission
(Mission to the Cities)

Shekar Philips
8 Seminar on National Integration and its Relevance to Adventist Mission, Associate Director
Northeast India (Global Mission)


Umesh Nag
Adventist Mission, Associate Director
9 Staff Retreat (Media Evangelism, Hope TV India)
S Johnson
Chaplaincy Ministries Ramesh Y Jadhav
Children's Ministries

Mridula Lakra
9 International Conference Co-Hosted by METAS, Ranchi
Communication


G Nageshwar Rao
Coordinator for Hinduism and
10 Adventist Schools as Centres of Influence Islamic Study Centre Srikanth Shendikey
Education



R N Prabhudas
10 Communication and Health Seminar Family Ministries




Associate Director

Rosenita Christo
11 Adventist World Radio Studio Inaugurated Health Ministries (Associate)

Shekar Philips
Human Resource


Cyril Monthero

12 2nd Constituency Session: Manipur Conference Ministerial Secretary

Ch Victor Sam

Associate (Shepherdess)
Sophia Wilson
PARL



M Wilson
12 First Women's Ministries Congress in Mizoram Publishing Ministries

Benedict Biswas
Public Campus Ministry

Mohan Bhatti
13 1000 Missionary Movement, India - Camp Sabbath School/PM


Hidayat Masih
Special Ministries Associate

S Ambrose
14 5th Constituency Session: Gujarat Conference Special Needs Ministry


Stewardship


Zohruia Renthlei
14 Re-Dedication of Thannithodu Church Women's Ministries


Premila Masih
Youth Ministries


Mohan Bhatti
14 Dharavi Church Inauguration
Services, Centres, Organizations, Associations
15 South Gujarat Evangelistic Meetings
ADRA India


ADRA Nepal


Josue Orellana
16 Follow Jesus
Adventist Child India (ACI)

William Mack
Adventist Risk Management

P LeRoy Samuel
16 Christmas Pageant by the Hearing Impaired Building Engineer


John Masefield

Asst. Building Engineer
Mathew John
17 Children's Sabbath Conducted at Hosur Church Adventist Volunteer Service

Sofia Wilson
India Financial Association
17 Speech and Hearing Impaired School
Secretary


Kantharaj George

Associate


Riches Christian
18 Asian Aid for the Blind Legal Affairs


Jayawant Peter
Medical Trust Secretary

Pierson David
Medical Trust Treasurer

Alamgir Khan
18 Wedding Bells
Office Manager


S Jebaseelam
Records & Archives


Benny Joseph
19 Health Corner Retirement Plan Administrator
Enoch Manickam
Sponsorship Secretary

S Paulmoney
20 Daily Devotional Thought SERVSDA, Secretary

Benny Joseph
Trust Services


Kantharaj George

New Southern Asia Tidings 2 November - December, 2017

 Editorial
The Joy of Knowing
Jesus Christ as Saviour
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and
this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God – not because
of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
As Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, he was
rejoicing over the blessings of God that had come upon them
as a result of their faith in Jesus Christ their Saviour.
Ephesians Chapter 2 points out some of the new
relationships which make this indescribable joy possible in
the heart of each one who receives Jesus Christ as their
Saviour, Lord, Teacher and Friend. They are:
Through Jesus Christ we are made alive with a new
kind of life (Ephesians 2:1, 4-6)
A spiritual resurrection takes place when we receive
Jesus Christ as Saviour. Up to this moment we are in spiritual
darkness because of sin. Physically, nonbelievers are
walking, living, spiritual corpses in need of a spiritual-life
implant. This new life comes in the form of the new birth
when we respond to Jesus Christ in faith. To be alive from the
dead is a joyous experience for those who now know Jesus
Christ.
We are brought near to God and to others through
the blood of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:11-13)
Man, in his natural state is alienated from God.
Alienation from God results in alienation from other human
beings. Sin not only separates a man from his better self, but
it also serves to separate him from fellow humans. Man is a
lonely creature unless he has established a relationship that
makes fellowship possible with other human beings. Paul
was speaking here of the gentiles who were once strangers to
the covenant and had no hope but he was now rejoicing over
the fact that those once far off are now brought near through
the blood of Christ (v13).
Through Jesus Christ we experience the peace of
God and peace with God (Ephesians 2:14-15)
In repentance we yield to the rule and the will of the
creator God. By faith we put our trust in him and signify that
we are no longer rebels. Following this response of faith, we
experience the peace of God, peace with God and peace with
others. We are no longer the enemies of God. The child of
God, through faith in Jesus Christ, can know an inward peace
that passes all human understanding.
Through Jesus Christ we now have access to God's
presence through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:18)
Until we know Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are
outsiders and do not feel close to God. We do not have access
to the throne of God where it is possible to address God as
“Our Father”. Paul rejoices in this new relationship that he
New Southern Asia Tidings
and all of us have through
faith in Jesus Christ that
we can address Him as our
father. This is one of the
supreme joys of being a
follower of Jesus Christ.
Through Jesus G Nageshwar Rao, Ph.D
Christ we become Editor, Southern Asia Tidings
citizens of the kingdom
of God (Ephesians 2:19)
The privilege of citizenship in a great country is not
properly appreciated by those who live there. The same can
be said concerning those who are no longer strangers and
sojourners but are now fellow citizens with the saints in the
kingdom of our dear Lord and Saviour. Paul speaks of this
transfer of citizenship in his letter to the Colossians. He
praises God and says “He has delivered us from the
dominion of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of
His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption and the
forgiveness of sins. The joy of citizenship is one of the joys
that comes as a result of knowing Jesus Christ.
Through Jesus Christ we become members of the
family of God (Ephesians 2:19)
Being a creature made in the image and likeness of God
is marvellous. Yet it is even more spectacular to experience a
spiritual birth that makes us the sons and daughters of God
and brothers and sisters to each other through Jesus Christ.
Membership in God's family is a joyous experience around
the world. You can meet people from our church in another
part of the world who are total strangers to you but you will
find that you have something intensely wonderful in
common with them. The joy of being a member of God's
family comes to us through faith in Jesus Christ.
Through Jesus Christ we become a part of the living
temple of God (Ephesians 2:22)
Salvation is more than just a legal relationship with
God. It is a dynamic experience in which God Himself
comes to dwell within the heart of each believer individually
and in all believers collectively. We become a living temple
in which God dwells. We become the meeting place where
others can come to know God and where God comes to
minister to a needy world.
Rich beyond words is the person who comes to know
Jesus Christ as Saviour; Joyous indeed is this privilege. If
you have not yet opened the door of your heart to let Jesus
Christ become your Saviour, I would encourage you to do so
without delay and experience this great joy you can have
through knowing Jesus Christ.
3 November - December, 2017
 Sabbath School Teacher's Training
Sabbath School Teachers Training program was
conducted for the Sabbath school teachers in Southern
Asia Division after 20 years at the Union Biblical
Seminary, Pune, from November 27-30, 2017.
Elder Ramon Canal, the World Church SS&PM
Director, in his presentation on the Sabbath school class
as a soul winning agency summarized the challenges
that Sabbath school is facing today. He said, the decline
of Sabbath school attendance; members not interested in
studying the SS lessons; overall decline in church and
Sabbath school attendance; lack of training for the
Sabbath school teachers; people getting too busy for
Sabbath School; lack of fellowship were some of the
challenges that Sabbath School is facing today.
The strategic plan of the Sabbath School
department is to develop a training program for Sabbath
school teachers and leaders to help them teach an
engaging lesson and increase the number of people
attending Sabbath school lesson study. To revive the
church through Sabbath school by involving Sabbath
school members in the mission of the Church, by
fostering unity, and enabling them to take initiative in
communicating the gospel also forms an important part
of the plan. The goal of Sabbath school is to make
disciples, he reiterates.
What should a Sabbath School teacher NOT Do and
DO to conduct an engaging Sabbath School Lesson
Study? Answers to these questions were the focus of
Elder Jim Howard’s Teacher Training Session.
The Sabbath school teacher should not teach the
lesson to give information but to enable transformation,
not talk the whole time, not let the members do all the
talking without drawing conclusions from the bible, not
be facilitators of opinions and beliefs, not refuse to
New Southern Asia Tidings
address sinful behaviour, not ignore the Sabbath school
lesson entirely and speak about something which is on
their mind, not give their own opinion when a question
is asked and should not be glued only to the Sabbath
School without providing additional biblical insights.
These were some of the things that Elder Howard
mentioned which a Sabbath school teacher should not
do.
So what should a Sabbath School teacher do? Here
are some suggestions he gave: The Sabbath school
teacher should study the bible to prepare for the lesson
so that additional biblical insights can be shared, should
engage class members in discussion, allow members to
interact, communicate clearly the truths from the bible
with references regarding the subject being discussed,
should show love and encourage members to fulfil the
Gospel commission by sowing, reaping, and keeping.
175 Sabbath School teachers who teach Beginners,
Kindergarten, primary, power point, cornerstone, young
adult and adult classes all over Southern Asia Division
attended this training program.
Sabbath School teachers had little to no training at
all and therefore this was a much needed training to
equip Sabbath school teachers with the right teaching
methods and bring back into focus the goal and mission
of Sabbath School.
Ramon Canals, Director, Jim Howard, Associate
Director, Falvo Fowler, Editor and Executive Producer,
Sabbath School and Personal Ministries, General
Conference of Seventh-day Adventists were the main
resource personnel for this training program.
| Hidayat Masih | Director,
Sabbath School and Personal Ministries,
Southern Asia Division
4 November - December, 2017
Records and Archives Management Training
The weeklong records and archives management
training included training in records centre operations,
records management and how to establish and grow an
archive.
Elder Roy Kline gave us an overview of the new
provisions added in the policy regarding archives and
said that the executive secretaries are responsible for
implementing the archives policy in their respective
units. He emphasized on the importance of having a
sound records management policy, the importance of
compliance monitoring to ensure that the records
management policy is being adhered to and summarized
the standards that need to be maintained.
In the presentation he made on records management
Elder Roy gave us an overview of the principles of
record management, the goals for records management,
the life cycle of a record, the importance of creating a
retention schedule and the challenges faced in records
retention and storage. He gave suggestions on how to
decide what to keep, what to toss and what to archive
which was very useful.
Elder Roy also gave us a few pointers on how to
establish and operate a records management centre. He
outlined the benefits of having a records centre, how to
make space estimations, the type of equipment, services
and supplies needed to respond to all types of disasters,
and optimal use of space. He briefed us on the shelving
requirements, the kind of storage containers and
labelling to use and how the records centre can be
automated.
The other topics covered by other presenters were:
The role and functions of a secretary; preparation and
New Southern Asia Tidings
maintenance of service records; statistics & yearbook;
retirement policies and procedures; office management,
IFA policies and procedures; basic filing; preparation of
projects; International Volunteer Service; procedures
for online employee service records .
It is very important that every executive secretary
and the office secretaries at all levels be conversant with
their role and responsibilities pertaining to the
principles involved in record keeping and archives
management. To facilitate learning, be familiar with the
process and develop the skills required to optimally
perform secretariat functions relating to Archives, the
Southern Asia Division Secretariat conducted this much
needed training on Archives and Records Management
from December 04-07, 2017 at the Southern Asia
Division headquarters.
A total of 75 delegates comprising of union and
section executive secretaries, their office secretaries,
division office secretaries, and office secretaries of
division institutions attended these training sessions.
These sessions clearly articulated the importance of
archives and records management. The sessions were
very informative and useful. I am sure this training will
facilitate better performance in records and archives
management..
The resource person for the Records and Archives
Management Training was Elder Roy Kline, Assistant
Director for Archives, Statistics and Research, General
Conference.
| Benny Joseph | Associate Secretary,
Southern Asia Division
5 November - December, 2017
 Dental Clinic Inauguration
A much needed dental unit was added to the services offered by the
Seventh-day Adventist Hospital, Thanjavur.
The new dental unit was inaugurated on December 04, 2017 and
Doctor Ketan Chandanshive will be in-charge of providing dental care
at this clinic. May this new dental facility offer quality dental care and be
a blessing to the people in and around the city of Thanjavur.
Pastor Selvin Moorthy, Treasurer, Southern Asia Division,
inaugurated this facility in the presence of many distinguished guests.
| Sonia Ann Khan |
Coordinator, Communication, Medical Trust

Science Exhibition
The first science exhibition at
Flaiz Adventist Higher Secondary
School was organized as part of the
Children's Day celebrations on,
November 14, 2017. The objective
was to allow the children to express
their creativity and to create in them
an awareness of the importance of
science and technology
From simple charts to complex
working models the students presented many creative
ideas as exhibits. The displays included exhibits on
various topics related to: Physics, Chemistry, Biology,
Electronics, Geology and Environmental Sciences. They
displayed everything from volcanoes to water cycles,
traffic signals, solar systems, rural and urban ecosystems,
and from street lighting to hydraulic cranes.
The enthusiasm and skill clubbed with their
knowledge was commendable. The
parents, teachers, and visitors were
in awe of the creativity of the
students and the hard work they put
in.
The Science Exhibition was
coordinated by Mr N Jayaraju,
Headmaster, Flaiz Memorial
Higher Secondary School, and he
was ably supported by all the staff
and teachers of the school. The first science exhibition
held at Flaiz School was a huge success.
Later in the evening the children were treated to an
entertainment program presented by the teachers and
office staff of Flaiz Adventist School.
| Sangeeth M Luke | Coordinator, Communication,
Flaiz Adventist College

Dorcas Society Meeting The Needs Of The Community

The mission of the Dorcas community because of their
Society of Flaiz Adventist College generosity, she concludes.
Church is to support the poor and The Seventh-day Adventist
needy people in their church and Church officially named the
their immediate neighbourhood. Dorcas Society as a community
On December 31, 2017 Sarees outreach program in 1879. It was
were distributed to the poor women named after Dorcas whose story
within the church and in their is found in the book of Acts. She
community. A part of the funds was a woman with a passion to
raised this year were used to extend serve others. The Dorcas Society
financial help to a few poor students provides clothes, food, and/or
of Flaiz School by paying a part of money to women or families in
their fees. the church or the immediate community who have needs.
Mrs Suneetha Luke, Director, Flaiz Church Dorcas
Society, would like to express gratitude to all the church | Sangeeth M Luke | Coordinator,
members and their relatives who have generously donated Communication, Flaiz Adventist College
towards the Dorcas fund. They were able to serve the

New Southern Asia Tidings 6 November - December, 2017

 Dental Camp Conducted at Lowry School
The Child Health Nursing Department of Lowry
Adventist College of Nursing in collaboration with the
Urban Dental Clinic conducted a Dental camp for the
Lowry Adventist Middle School and Higher
Secondary School children as part of the Children's
th th
Day celebration on 13 and 14 of November 2017.
A health lecture on the importance of dental
hygiene was given to every class by Doctor Preethi
Kanekal after assessment of the students.
The visiting dental team comprised of: Doctor
Jonathan Eric Rao, MS (Prosthodontics), Centre Head,
Urban Dental Clinic and Doctor Preethi Kanekal, MS
(Pedodontics), Consultant.
The dental camp was coordinated by Professor faculty and students was very encouraging and this
Sunitha Calvin, Head, Department of Child Health initiative was well appreciated.
Nursing. | Julie Joel Moses | Coordinator,
The feedback received from the administrators, Communication, Lowry Adventist College

Platinum Jubilee Celebrations

On November 01, 2017,
Northeast Adventist College
celebrated the Platinum Jubilee of the
college. The Northeast Adventist
College was established in 1941.
The college administration
decided to celebrate this milestone by
conducting a blood donation camp on
October 25, 2017; a cultural program
performed by the students on
November 01, 2017; and to conclude
the platinum Jubilee celebrations by
organizing a district level seminar on
November 13, 2017.
The students and staff of
Northeast Adventist College donated Mrs Debora Marak, the Minister for Education and
blood to the blood bank of the Civil Hospital, Jowai. Literacy, Government of Meghalaya, was the chief
Northeast Adventist College is on their list of guest. She was received by student dancers from
acceptable blood donors. Khasi/Jaintia and was escorted to the cultural village
The students along with their sponsors constructed by Lamm B Fanwar, President, Northeast Adventist
a cultural village representing different cultures present College. She declared the celebrations open by cutting
on the college campus. They are: the Assam Tea the ribbon.
Garden house, the Manipur Tribal house-Morung, the The Cultural day program included, student
Mizo house Zofa-rûn, Khasi/Jaintia Traditional dancers from all language groups represented on the
Kitchen and the Garo Jhum hut. We also had exhibition campus, songs, prayer, and a speech by Mrs W B
booths representing different states. We had a booth Kharbteng, President, ATS/NAC Alumni Association.
each from Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Nagaland and Mrs Marak in her inspiring speech laid emphasis
the College. on the importance of individual performance and

New Southern Asia Tidings 7 November - December, 2017

excelling in whatever one does. She said, “Students
must prepare themselves on how to survive in the
competitive environment that they face now in the
school and will face later in their place of work.” To
have a cutting-edge advantage over the others and be
successful when you step into the world, it is very
important that you develop into the best version of
YOU, she said.
The college administration hopes that this
celebration has brought a measure of awareness in the
community about the quality of education we offer and
Seminar on National Integration & Its Relevance to Northeast India
The Northeast Adventist College conducted a
District Level Seminar on National Integration as part
of the platinum Jubilee celebrations. The seminar was
hosted by the Political Science Department under the
supervision of Doctor Maireiwon Zimik, Head of
Department, Political Science, Northeast Adventist
College. The seminar was declared open by Doctor C R
Diengdoh, Director C.D.C. NEHU, Shillong.
Keynote Speech 1: Mr Lamm B Fanwar, President,
Northeast Adventist College, in his keynote address
reflected on Mainland India. Keynote Speech 2: Doctor
Soma Bhowmick, Associate Professor, Department of
Political Science, William Carey University, Shillong,
focused his speech on National Integration in Northeast
India and discussed the issues and challenges they face.
The 3 paper presentations made during the day long
seminar were: Eva Aibok Nongtraw, Assistant
Professor, Department of Education, Jaintia Eastern
College: “Northeast Region – An Integral Part of India
with Some Negligence”; Victor P Shimray, Assistant
Professor, Department of Political Science, Northeast
New Southern Asia Tidings
the activities that take place in the college. May
Northeast Adventist College be a beacon to the
community we represent.
The college administration informs that the
Platinum Jubilee celebrations could not be held in the
actual platinum year due to unavoidable circumstances.
| Sheila Fanwar | Department of English,
Northeast Adventist College
Adventist College: “Conflict Resolution for National
Integration with Special Reference to Indo-Naga Peace
Process”; Tre-Em Mi Lamare, Thomas Jones Synod
College, Jowai: “National Integration in Northeast
India: A Note”.
The seminar was an eye-opening experience and
was a great exposure for the students at Northeast
Adventist College. The faculty and students from many
other colleges attended this seminar. This was the first
time that the NAC students attended a seminar with
such a large gathering from different colleges in
attendance. There was a healthy
discussion on the papers presented it
was a great learning experience for
everyone who attended. The college
intends to conduct more of such
programs in the future to give
necessary exposure to their students.
All the participants were awarded
with certificates.
The Guest of Honor for this
seminar was Doctor R R Kharkongor,
Principal, Thomas Jones Synod
College, Jowai.
The college administration
expresses their gratitude to God for
His leading in every challenge that they face and for
blessing our every endeavour. It is their prayer that God
will continue to direct the Northeast Adventist College
family as they look forward to moving to a higher level
of Academic Excellence in the years to come.
| Victor P Shimray | Assistant Professor,
Northeast Adventist College
8 November - December, 2017
 College Staff Retreat
The 2017 Lowry Degree College staff retreat was
nothing less than an amazing experience. This retreat
gave the staff an opportunity to interact and get to know
each other from different offices and departments in a
very informal way. It gave the staff an opportunity to
step back from their daily routines and have some fun.
Taking time out has always been a vital part of
improving quality of life and re-charging the spirit. The
Degree College teaching and office staff went to
Guhantara Resort for a 1-day retreat. This is India's
first cave resort and is 30 feet below ground level. The
resort is aesthetically designed and abounds with
creativity and originality. The entire structure is
constructed underground, in a cave, using only natural
elements in its architecture. It has all the modern
amenities one would desire and yet they were
environmental friendly.
The retreat was a welcome break for all the
lecturers and staff. The purpose of the retreat was to
have fun while mingling and bonding together as a
unit.
This retreat will be long remembered as a fun and
adventurous experience for all who came along. The
lecturers and staff had positive interaction with each
other. The teachers returned rejuvenated along with a
load of memories to cherish for a long time to come.
| Julie Joel Moses | Coordinator,
Communication, Lowry Adventist College

International Conference Co-Hosted by METAS, Ranchi

Madhawi Shyam Education Trust, International
Consortium of Contemporary Biologists and METAS,
Ranchi organized a 3-day International Conference on
Global Scenario of Life Science, Agriculture,
Nursing & Medical Research for the welfare of the
rural & urban folk. This conference gave an
opportunity for scientists to make their findings known
to the public and tell them how these findings will
improve their life.
5 Junior Scientists and 2 Emerging Scientists
received awards for their successful research efforts in
the fields of Agriculture and Nursing. They are:
Kumari Neetu, Preeti Kumari, Shiny E C
Kachchap, Tanya Sinha, Diana Handu, Doctor
Vinita Chahal, and Doctor G B Chand. The awards
were given away by Doctor Srikakoli Eliah, President promote development in these fields.
& CEO, METAS. The conference was held at the conference Hall in
It is hoped that such conferences will encourage Adventist College, Ranchi from December 03-07,
budding scientists to continue their research efforts to 2017.
find solutions to existing problems that are prevalent in | N Subhakar Prasad | Coordinator,
the fields of Agriculture and Medical Sciences and
Communication, METAS, Ranchi

New Southern Asia Tidings 9 November - December, 2017

 Adventist Schools as Centres of Influence
Mrs. E. G White in Education page 19 wrote, “He
who cooperates with the divine purpose in imparting to
the youth a knowledge of God, and moulding the
character into harmony with His, does a high and noble
work...an education that secures to the successful
student his passport from the preparatory school of
earth to the higher grade, the school above”.
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, page 19, “There
is no other work of so great importance. That we have
been given a work of the most solemn import-the
proclamation of the three angels' message.”
How true are the words of the co-founder of the
Adventist church that the Seventh-day Adventist
Schools have been established everywhere to
strengthen the evangelism work of the church and to
train the youth of the church to witness for Christ in the
schools. It is inspiring to note that in spite of the
challenges they face some schools are still making the
school as a centre of influence. It is worth sharing what
the Pringprang Adventist Secondary School in
Bajengdoba and the Sunbeam Adventist Secondary
School in Williamnagar are doing to lead precious
souls to Christ.
The dedicated team consisting of Adventist staff
and teachers at Pringprang Adventist School was
instrumental in leading 12 precious souls to Christ;
which includes students, parents and a Baptist Math
Teacher. Their goal for 2017 was to lead 10 souls to
Christ but they were able to harvest 12 souls. Here is
the method they used to accomplish this phenomenal
achievement: reading and studying the Bible in the
classroom every day, praying with the students,
regularly visiting the parents of the students, building a
relationship with them and then conducting Bible
studies and leading them to the truth.
Communication and Health Seminar
A 1-day Communication and Health Seminar was
conducted on November 12, 2017, by Idukki Section
for volunteers, elders and workers in this section.
Pastor Jose Prakash, Communication Director,
Southwest India Union said, that there was a pressing
need of good communicators in the Church. He
explained to the members gathered that greater work
can be accomplished if each member gets involved in
communicating the Good news of salvation through
Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. God has called all
of us to be communicators of the Good News. He
emphasized that reporting and witnessing for God has
New Southern Asia Tidings 10
In 2017 the Sunbeam Adventist Secondary School
in Williamnagar established two congregations, one in
Rambalading and the other in Rukagre.
The dedicated staff and teachers at the Sunbeam
School use the school as a contact point to meet with
the parents of students studying there. They visit the
homes of students and people in their neighbourhood
regularly. They then begin studying the Bible with
them. The teachers also use the Moral science period to
study the Bible with the students and as they study
different passages they draw practical lessons from the
Bible and some of them give them Bible studies during
this time. This way they were able to lead 32 people
into a saving relationship with Jesus. They give all
honour and glory to God for giving them the
opportunity to have a role in bringing these precious
souls into the fold.
These two congregations that began as branch
Sabbath Schools are now growing rapidly. Within a
short time the congregation at Rambalading has 30
members and the congregation at Rukagre has around
25 members.
These schools do not have great infrastructures or
enrolments but they are doing their best to lead people
to Christ through the activities of the school and using
the opportunities that come their way, which is very
commendable. An interview with Mr Netherson
Sangma and Mr Frandose Marak confirmed this news.
May God richly bless the efforts of the dedicated
team of teachers in these schools as they continue
leading people to the Truth and bring in many more
souls to Jesus Christ using schools as Centres of
Influence effectively.
| J Sangma | Director, Education,
Northeast India Union
November - December, 2017
an impact not only on those whom we share Jesus with
through the written word but to us as well, he concludes.
As it strengthens our own faith and helps us in our walk
with the Lord. He encouraged everyone to be active
communicators for God.
Later, Pastor Jose also made a presentation on
health and the importance of health ministry as part of
our evangelistic program. He encouraged the members
to couple Medical Ministry with the Gospel Ministry
and said this will make our programs more effective.
He said there is a close relationship between physical
well-being and spiritual life and growth and hence it is
important for us to share the principles of healthful
living as we go about sharing Jesus with others. He
urged everyone present to follow the principles of
healthful living and live a healthy life. A healthy mind
helps us be spiritually minded. We are all agents of the
healing ministry as well.
The seminar was well attended and we plan to have
follow-up health and communication seminars in all
sections and regions on a regular basis.
| Jose Prakash | Director,
Communication, Southwest India Union

Adventist World Radio Studio Inaugurated

A long cherished dream of the
administration and members of the
Manipur Conference became a reality
when a new Adventist World Radio
recording studio was inaugurated by
Doctor Surachet Insom, Director,
AW R , A s i a P a c i fi c R e g i o n o n
November 23, 2017.
nd
This is the 2 recording studio in
Northeast India Union. Thirteen years
ago, the first recording studio in this
union was inaugurated at the Mizo
Conference. At that time Broadcasts in
two new languages—Mizo and
Assamese were being produced there.
Manipur conference hopes to
begin producing and broadcasting
programs in 4 – 5 major dialects of this
region in their newly inaugurated
studio.
unreached in the land of Manipur and this studio will go
They can now send their programs directly to the a long way in helping us share the good news to them.
AWR Asia Pacific Office in Thailand. Programs for the The conference administration would like to sincerely
major language groups in India are produced at thank the AWR Asia Pacific Region for providing all
Adventist Media Center in Pune. the equipment required for the recording studio free of
A day prior to the inauguration on November 22, cost.
2017, Doctor Surachet Insom conducted a 1-day Anniston Matthews, Technical Engineer AWR,
training program on how to record programs and how Asia Pacific Region, officers and staff of Manipur
to produce interesting programs for AWR to a group of Conference, Departmental Directors, Field Workers,
18 members consisting of departmental directors, field Evangelists, and visitors from all over Manipur were
evangelists and the office staff. In due course of time present for the inauguration.
they will undergo further training as necessary.
God has paved the way for us to reach the masses in
This studio will certainly be a very effective Manipur through AWR. Praise God!
evangelism tool to reach the thousands of people in
Manipur with the 3 Angels Message in their own
dialects says, Pastor Graceson Kamei, President, | Michael Sangma | Treasurer,
Manipur Conference. The good news must reach the Manipur Conference

New Southern Asia Tidings 11 November - December, 2017

 2nd Constituency Session: Manipur Conference
nd
The 2 Constituency Session of Manipur
conference of Seventh-day Adventists was held from
December 06-09, 2017, at the Conference
Headquarters in Imphal amidst inclement weather
conditions. There were 165 delegates in attendance for
this constituency session.
The newly elected officers and department
directors of the Manipur Conference are:

Officers:
Kashiprii Archete President
Tharmila Archete Women & Family
Lungaichungpou Golmei Secretary Ministries
Wungreiyo A. Shimray Treasurer The theme of the constituency session was “For
Higher & Purer”. Pastor Graceson Kamei read out the
Departments: five-year report of the Manipur conference. Although
Kashiprii Archete Religious Liberty & there is room for improvement always, the work done
Public Relations during the last five years was highly appreciated.
Lungaichungpou Golmei Ministerial Secretary Doctor K B Kharbteng, Former President of Khasi
Jaintia Conference led out in a special prayer session
Wungreiyo Shimray Trust & Risk while the meetings were in progress. He taught those
Management who attended this special prayer session how to
Belum Paschel Stewardship conduct and lead out united prayer sessions in their
Abui Panmei Sabbath School & local churches. It was a unique learning experience.
Personal Ministries
W. Hulang Education | Lungaichungpou Golmei | Executive Secretary,
Khanmi Luikham Publishing & Health Manipur Conference
Ministries
Gideon Horam Youth

First Women's Ministries Congress In Mizoram

More than 977 women from different circles in the
territory of Mizo Conference gathered at the Seventh-
day Tlang Church, for the first ever women's congress
for the Seventh-day Adventist women in this region.
The event was held from November 03-05, 2017. This
women's congress was conducted because of the
relentless requests by women and the circle leaders to
have a training session for women in ministry.
The theme of the congress was “Fulfil Your
Ministry.” The 3-day congress included workshops on
subjects such as health, nutrition, women's role in
different areas in ministry and home management
principles.
The major focus of this congress was to maximize
their potential in all areas of ministry and to help them
develop their talents. Some of the areas of ministry that
a woman needs to fulfil are: her ministry in the church,
at home, in the community and her personal witness.
The presentations were inspirational as well as
educative in nature. The goal is to help these women
reach their true potential and make significant
contributions to the mission of the Church.

New Southern Asia Tidings 12 November - December, 2017

 The organizers made arrangements for delegates to
have a free health check-up at the Seventh-day Adventist
Hospital in Mizoram. Anyone who wanted to have a
preliminary health check and get evaluated was free to do
so. This ensured that the spiritual and physical needs of the
delegates who attended this congress were taken care of
and gave the congress a holistic touch.
A special gift was given away to all delegates above
the age of 65. We had 89 women in this age bracket that
were attending this congress. This shows how serious and
committed these women are to the mission of the Church.
Women from all the circles in Mizoram actively
participated in this Congress through singing, sharing
their testimonies and sharing God's word. All circles had
their own choir that sang during every session. The special
renditions from these choirs lifted our hearts to God and
enhanced the spiritual environment of the congress
greatly.
Mrs Thankimi Colney, the Women's Ministries
Director, Mizo Conference, says, that the success of this
congress is attributed to the many humble prayers offered
by prayerful women. Many women fasted and prayed that
this congress will transform their lives and some
congregations conducted all night prayers constantly
upholding this event in their prayers. A key feature of this
congress was the 'prayer garden' and there was someone or
1000 Missionary Movement, India - Camp
Almost 250 people attended a 2-day Camp conducted
by the 1000 Missionary Movement, India on December
28 & 29, 2017 at New Tura SDA Church. This camp
meeting was organized by the Alumni of the 1000
Missionary Movement, India. The purpose of conducting
this camp meeting was to create awareness and instill in
young people the urgency of fulfilling the Gospel
Commission and to motivate them to become
missionaries for Christ. “Arise & Shine” was the theme
for this camp meeting.
The presentations were very spiritual and practical.
The activities included early morning personal and
collective prayer sessions, Bible reading, memorizing and
reciting of memory verses before every meal, literature
distribution, visiting the homes in the neighborhood,
visiting the sick in the hospitals, and learning how to give
bible studies. Many of the young people that attended this
camp meeting decided to give one year of their life as a
Missionary for Christ.
Many young people prepare to go and serve
following their training at 1000 Missionary Movement,
India, Training Center. They not only share the Bible's
Good news with those who have not heard but they are
also like spiritual mentors to the young people that they
associate with.
May God continue to bless the 1000 Missionary
New Southern Asia Tidings 13
the other in the prayer room always praying for God's
presence at this Congress.
The feedback received was very encouraging. The
delegates appreciated the way the congress was organized
and some of them went to the extent of saying that it was of
international standards. Many delegates said that the
presentations and seminars were very relevant and
practical. The content was easy to understand and had
clear take-home messages. They also felt that there was a
good mix of new insights and practical suggestions that
can be used in their individual areas of ministry and
outreach activities. The key take home for many of the
women gathered there was that every woman must take an
active personal role in sharing God's love with others.
I believe this this Congress will go a long way in
building the confidence of the women gathered, empower
them to take on leadership responsibilities and enable
them to individually and collectively be involved in
different ministries, even those that they so far thought fall
in the man's domain.
| Thankimi Colney | Director,
Women's Ministries, Mizo Conference
Movement, India for their untiring services and ministry
in training the young people of India for missionary
service!
The resource personnel for this camp meeting were:
Abhishek Deepati, Associate Director, 1000 Missionary
Movement, India, Andrew Mondol, Principal, Sunderban
Islands, Amri and Sam, Alumni of 1000 Missionary
Movement.
| Barwin Marak | Director,
Communication, Garo Section
November - December, 2017
 th
th
5 Constituency Session
The 5 Constituency Session of Gujarat
Conference of Seventh-day Adventists was held from
December 14-16, 2017, at Vyara.
The newly elected conference officers are:

Satish Bhosale President

Rakesh Chavan Executive Secretary
Sunil Nalli Treasurer

| Rakesh Chavan | Executive Secretary,

Gujarat Conference

Re-Dedication of Thannithodu Church

The Thannithodu Church was established by late Pastor P V
Paulose in 1975. The church in Thannithodu was in a dilapidated
condition for some time now because of lack of maintenance but
has now been reconstructed by a few well-wishers.
This beautiful newly reconstructed church was re-dedicated
to God to be a beacon of light and serve the community by Pastor
R John, Former President, Southern Asia Division on December
24, 2017, in the presence of the officers of Alleppy-
Pathanamthitta Section, church members, friends and well-
wishers.
| T P Kurian |
Southwest India Union

Dharavi Church Inauguration

It is always a moment of great joy to
see a new church opened to serve the
community. The Seventh-day Adventist
community in Dharavi, a suburban city
in Mumbai, inaugurated their much
awaited and much prayed for church on
Sunday, October 29, 2017. During the
inaugural service many members and
leaders reflected on the many challenges
they faced and how God miraculously
helped them overcome all those
challenges and made it possible for this
church to be completed.
At one point there was a lot of
opposition from some local groups to
stop construction as they did not want
any building to come up in that area but
the lay members worked relentlessly
with the authorities and with the support

New Southern Asia Tidings 14 November - December, 2017

of local authorities were able to continue the
construction and finished the church building. The
members were delighted to have a wonderful church to
worship in.
Even before the inauguration ceremony began the
church was packed and there was standing room only.
Pastor Daniel shared a powerful spiritual message
based on Nehemiah 10:28-39 to the members gathered
for this ceremony. He said that every follower of Christ
must make a covenant with God, keep His laws, and
everyone must guard against letting the ways of the
world creep into the Church. This he said, will help the
church be united and enable us to effectively serve the
community. The message was invigorating and you
could see that it touched the hearts of everyone present.
The members were encouraged to share God's hope
and love with the community around. Everyone present
was reminded that the main focus should be to make this
house of worship like a light to the community it
represents and be a place of refuge to all men. Amidst
South Gujarat Evangelistic Meetings
The volunteers and pastors
under the leadership of Pastor
Shrikant Shinde organized and
conducted 5 evangelistic meetings
between November 01 –
December 02, 2017, at Panchvira,
Kakarkooper, Bhuada, Kaprala
and Dulsad.
There is still a lot to be done in
terms of reaching out to the people
in these regions. The mountainous
ranges in these regions are full of
challenges and opportunities, says
the Director, Pastor Shrikanth
Shinde. Inspite of the presence of
observatories that keep a tab on us
to sabotage our efforts to reach out to these people with
the Good news of salvation, by God's grace we are still
able to teach them about God's love and offer them the
free Gift of salvation to those who are willing to listen
and obey God’s word.
We are now studying God's word with around 25
independent Bible workers who each have
congregations of 35-40 people and sharing the Sabbath
truth and our beliefs according to the scriptures with
them. The pastors in our region regularly visit them.
These 25 independent Bible workers are attending
Sabbath services regularly and it is our prayer that the
New Southern Asia Tidings 15
the many challenges there is a lot of opportunity and a
future for the Gospel in this great city of Mumbai.
The leaders present encouraged the members to
keep the Sabbath holy, bring in the tithes to God's
storehouse faithfully, and not to forsake the house of
God. After listening to the counsels of the leaders the
church members renewed their commitment to be
faithful to God and to the church.
Metro Section officers, staff, representatives from
Western India Union and Southeast India Union, local
authorities and members of the Dharavi church and
church members from other denominations were
present for this inauguration ceremony.
The church building in Dharavi was inaugurated by
Pastor Daniel Devadas, President, Southeast India
Union.
| Usha Rao | Director,
Communication, Mumbai Metro Section
Holy Spirit will work on their hearts and convince them
of the truth so that they and their respective
congregations will accept the Sabbath truth as well as
other fundamental beliefs of the Adventist Church.
As a result of studying the Bible regularly with
these congregations many have accepted the Sabbath
truth but there are still others who are in the valley of
decision. Please pray for this small yet challenge filled
region.
| Shrikant D Shinde | Director,
South Gujarat Region
November - December, 2017
 Follow Jesus
Week of prayer events in schools is a very helpful
tool in promoting a spiritual environment and an
interest in spiritual matters among
the students..
This year the Avanigadda High
School conducted its Annual Week
of Prayer from October 09-14,
2017.
The theme chosen for the week
of prayer was “Follow Jesus”. Each
day, Mrs Helen Vara, Director,
Children's Ministries, South Andhra Section, drew
valuable lessons, on how to follow Jesus irrespective of
the situation one is in, from the lives of David, Samuel,
the Little Captive Maid, Three Hebrew Youth, Joseph
and Moses. She encouraged the students to learn from
them and practice the lessons learnt from these Bible
heroes in their own lives. She said that they were able
to follow Jesus in spite of difficult circumstances
because of the relationship they shared with Jesus. You
too can follow Jesus irrespective of the circumstances
and challenges you face if you build a relationship with
Jesus, she concluded.
The principles she highlighted from their
experiences were: faithfulness to God even during
Christmas Pageant By The Hearing Impaired
A pageant presented by the
students on the birth of Christ was the
highlight of the Christmas celebration
at the school for speech and hearing
impaired, Kollegal, this year. The
pageant was presented on December
21, 2017, and the program was centred
around the theme “Born to Save”. The
Christmas program was interspersed
with choreography performances by
the girls of this school praising Jesus
the King who was born to save the world.
Pastor Chelluvaraju, Executive Secretary, South
Central India Union, delivered the Christmas message
to the school family. He used visual aids to get his
message across to the students. He told them what
Christmas is and what it is not. He also told them that
the true spirit of Christmas is in giving and not in just
receiving, he said, it is important to give just as God
gave us His only begotten son to rescue us from sin and
through Him eternal life.
The students, staff and administration of the school
would like to express their gratitude to Mr Sam
Anandappa and his family for funding the Christmas
New Southern Asia Tidings 16
difficult times, obedience to God's commands, being a
witness to others and the importance of prayer.
Before the start of each day's
presentation Mrs Helen conducted
a short bible quiz and rewarded
those who answered the questions
correctly. She encouraged them to
memorize small passages of
scripture while she was there. She
told them, it was important to
memorize scripture because the
word of God is a weapon against sin
and temptation, and when placed in the mind through
Bible memorization it is a strong influence for living
good lives. The principal reports that most of the
st
students memorized the books of the Bible and 1
th
Corinthians 13 chapter during that week. Praise God!
He says, that he will continue to encourage the children
to memorize passages of scriptures.
It was a wonderful week of reflection and learning
from the scriptures about kingdom values, he
concludes.
| Saggurthi Samuel | Principal,
Avanigaddi High School
program and gifts for the senior children for the past 10
years. The children were gifted with bedspreads by Mr
Anandappa's family and this year the children were
also gifted with bed sheets presented to them by Mr
Dolphine and Mrs Smitha Dolly Fernandes and family.
I would like to appreciate the support and
commitment of Helping Hand Welfare Society, Asian
Aid and Child Impact International to our school and
thank them for presenting gifts to all the children who
attended the program.
| Jacob Bhaggien | Principal,
School for Speech & Hearing Impaired, Kollegal
November - December, 2017
Children's Sabbath Conducted At Hosur Church
The children of Jeevan Jyothi English
Church, Hosur, gathered for a special
Children’s Divine Service at one of the
Sabbath School rooms in the Sabbath School
block on November 4, 2017.
The children enthusiastically
participated in the Divine Service; from
conducting the praise and worship session to
presenting God's word and everything in
between was taken care of by the children.
Five children presented God's word under
the theme “Waiting for His Coming”! It was
a joyful experience for me to witness this
inspiring children's program. initiative of the Children's Department of the Jeevan
God bless these little children as they develop a Jyothi English Church.
personal relationship with Jesus and the Sabbath | Mridula Lakra | Director,
School teachers of Jeevan Jyothi English Church, for
training these little ones for God's service. This is an Children's Ministries, Southern Asia Division

SDA SCHOOL FOR

SPEECH & HEARING
IMPAIRED, KOLLEGAL

24 YEARS OF DELIVERING QUALITY EDUCATION

FOR DEAF CHILDREN

Facilities Available:

1. Sponsorship for children from poor background

2. Separate Boarding facilities for Girls and Boys
3. Special Education with Sign-Language
4. Vocational Training Programs
5. English Medium Education
6. Future Education Opportunities till Degree

CONTACT: JACOB BHAGGIEN, PRINCIPAL AT 9840182073

New Southern Asia Tidings 17 November - December, 2017

 Wedding Bells

Roselind was married to Jecintha Harsha was married to

Timothy on December Niranjan Lazarus
28, 2017, at the Flaiz on November 26, 2017,
Adventist College Suman was married to
Sunny Samson at the Seventh-day Adventist
Church. May God bless Central Tamil Church, Bengaluru.
this newly established on December 29, 2017,
at the Flaiz Adventist May the Lord bless this couple
Christian family. as they begin their life together.
College Church.
May God bless the newly
wedded couple.

New Southern Asia Tidings 18 November - December, 2017

Health Benefits of Cucumber Health Corner
1. Protects Your Brain: Cucumbers contain an anti-
inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play
an important role in your brain health. It improves
memory and protects nerve cells from age-related
decline. 2. Protects bones: Cucumbers are a good source
of Vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for bone health,
and low levels of this vitamin have been associated with a
higher risk for bone fracture. Vitamin K is also important
for improving calcium absorption in the bones.
3. Reduces Risk of Cancer: Cucumbers contain
polyphenols called lignans, which may help to lower your
risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate
cancers. They also contain
phytonutrients called
cucurbitacins, which also
have anti-cancer
p r o p e r t i e s .
4. Supports
Digestive Health:
Cucumbers are rich
in two of the most
basic elements
needed for healthy
digestion: water and
fibre. Cucumbers are
low in calories and high
in fibre, which makes it good
for digestive health. Cucumber
skins contain insoluble fibre and helps
food to move through your digestive tract more
quickly for healthy elimination. 5. Fights Inflammation:
Cucumbers may help to "cool" the inflammatory response
in your body in part by inhibiting the activity of pro-
inflammatory enzymes (including cyclo-oxygenase 2, or
COX-2). 6. Supports Heart Health: Cucumbers contain
potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure
levels. A proper balance of potassium both inside and
outside your cells is crucial for your body to function
properly. As an electrolyte, potassium is a positive
New Southern Asia Tidings
charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration in
order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting
with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission,
muscle contraction, and heart function. 7. Helps
Manage Stress: Cucumbers contain multiple B vitamins,
including vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7
(biotin). B vitamins are known to help ease feelings of
anxiety and buffer some of the damaging effects of stress.
8. Freshens Your Breath: Cucumber juice refreshes and
heals diseased gums, leaving your mouth smelling good.
Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may
help to rid your mouth of odor-causing
bacteria. 9. Helps Maintain a
Healthy Weight: Cucumbers are
very low in calories, yet they
make a filling snack (one
cup of sliced cucumber
contains just 16
calories). The soluble
fibre in cucumbers
dissolves into a gel-
like texture in your gut
and helps slow down
digestion so you feel
full longer and this way
helps in weight control.
10. Antioxidant Properties:
Cucumbers contain numerous
antioxidants, including the well-known
vitamin C and beta-carotene. They also contain
antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin,
luteolin, and kaempferol, which provide additional
benefits. 11. Good for Diabetics: Diabetic patients can
enjoy eating cucumber while also reaping its health
benefits. Cucumber contains a hormone needed by the
cells of the pancreas for producing insulin. 12. Soothes
Muscle and Joint Pains: All those vitamins and minerals
in cucumber make it a powerful enemy of muscle and
joint pain.
The desired effect in our mission and activities
is to create a favorable image of the church, its
mission, life and activities, and to witness in
order that many may follow Christ and become
members of His church.
19 November - December, 2017
 Daily Devotional Thought
Dedicate some time every day to pray and read the scriptures. The verses below are
suggestions of verses that you can read during your Bible Study Time. We have a new verse
for each day of the month.

Published by Ezras Lakra for Services Association of Consultants

Seventh-day Adventists, AA 148, 3rd Avenue, Anna Nagar, M George Raju
East Central India Union of SDA
Chennai 600 040 and printed by Oriental Watchman
Publishing House, Box 1417, Pune 411 037, India. Betty Lyngdoh
North East India Union of SDA
Private Circulation Only Rajesh Chand
Northern India Union of SDA
Ashok Doddamani
South Central India Union of SDA
Editor :
G Nageshwar Rao, Ph.D Johnson Christopher
South East India Union of SDA
(gnageshwarrao@sudadventist.org) Jose Prakash

South West India Union of SDA
Secretary :
Swapna Clive
Layout :
David Shirsat Augustine Joseph
Western India Union of SDA
SUD Website :
www.sudadventist.org Sangeeth Luke

Flaiz Adventist College
Julie Moses

Lowry Memorial College
Please send feature/news articles and clear pictures Tani Hauzel

Northeast Adventist College
only to gnageshwarrao@sudadventist.org Manoj Sarkar

Roorkee Adventist College
N Elvinson

Spicer Adventist University
Editor, Southern Asia Tidings, Lynnel Kisku

METAS
Southern Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists, Punnia Raj

Adventist B.Ed. College, Vellore
HCF, Post Box 2, Hosur – 635110, Sonia Khan

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New Southern Asia Tidings
Tamil Nadu, India. 20 November - December, 2017