| 10 OCTOBER 2025 ⦿ SOUTH ENGLAND CONFERENCE |
| NEWSLETTER |
|
|
|
|
|
| Pastoral Letter | |
|
Dear Church Family, Greetings in the precious name of Jesus. I trust that you and your families are doing well. The recent killing of our Jewish neighbours at a Synagogue in Manchester reminds us that our world is not a safe place. Humankind's inhumanity to each other continues unabated. The community of the Seventh-day Adventist in the South England Conference and the United Kingdom expresses our deepest condolences to the family of the bereaved. We also join in solidarity with every victim of war and displacement in our fragile world. One life lost is one too many. The recently agreed ceasefire and agreement between the Palestinians and Israel will go a long way to restoring an uneasy peace in that region. This will allow those displaced by the war to return to their homes and the relatives of the hostages to be reunited with their loved ones. Let's pray for peace. Recently, I have been reflecting on the unique challenge Jesus set by identifying the Church as "a city on a hill", "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). That is to represent high ideals of truth, goodness, righteousness, integrity, morality, new life and demonstrating the reality of living as one community under Christ in the world to come. Consideration of the way God has used Christianity here in the UK in the past reveals a formidable historical record that should be built upon and certainly not forgotten. Sometimes this can mean addressing sensitive issues, working with those who have been placed on the fringes of society or taking positions that may not be popular, but are right, nonetheless. As a part of this record, Christianity and Adventism have in the past addressed uncomfortable issues that would be placed, perhaps hastily, in the category of "social justice today" and therefore put aside. A crucial Biblical starting point we can apply to such matters is the plight of humankind, as represented in the figure of the man attacked by robbers and left by the roadside in the story Jesus told of the Good Samaritan (John 10:25-37). Through this story, Jesus taught compassion. A kind individual from Samaria overlooked class and ethnic differences as well as social hostilities and estrangement just to come to the aid of this person, take him to an inn, and be willing to pay whatever price was necessary to provide for his needs. Already, some of us will feel defensive about this subject, resisting ideas of how it could apply to us, the responsibilities we might need to take on, or what we may need to give up in terms of our status or self-image, especially if these have been built on shaky ground. Yet, the story takes on a different significance when we see within it a representation of Jesus Christ, His compassion and all He gave on our behalf to save all of humankind. It is something to ponder that we have received such selfless compassion. Christians have long been moved by their faith to provide various ministries as outreach services for those who may not otherwise receive them, often to alleviate inequality and suffering. This includes ministry work the SDA Church has been involved in, addressing educational disparities through education, counselling at a low or no cost, youth work for people of all walks of life, support in overcoming addictions, and access to much-needed healthcare. Such endeavours are rightly considered noble. Similarly, the introduction of Christianity to the Roman Empire afforded women a new status and rights as equal human beings, members of God's family, and wives, which would most likely be considered a positive development by most of us (Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 5:21, 25 and Galatians 3:28). Somehow, conversations regarding racial inequality are treated with entirely different levels of compassion. Perhaps this is because we have rationalised ourselves into the convenient position of seeing denial as taking the moral high ground. At the same time, ironically, those who are hurting and being targeted are left to suffer. Could this at times be an example of "walking by on the other side" (Luke 10:31-32), like the unfeeling priest and uncompassionate Levite who felt their supposed religiousness made them immune to and indeed above considering such matters? In contrast, in his work, Dr Keith Burton, a famous British-born speaker and advocate for justice, has uncovered positions taken by our Adventist church pioneers in the US in the 1800s. Early Church figures whom we admire for their work were totally against Transatlantic Slavery, which was the racial issue of the day, and encouraged church members to avoid supporting it in any way. In fact, rather than a genuine representation of Christ, they linked the making of abusive laws in support of this system to the US being the 'lamblike beast' of Revelation 13:11 and 17, who spoke as a dragon. If you are not aware, you might be surprised to learn that initially, it wasn't theological reasons from the Bible that were advanced as the cause for the Church to stop speaking against these matters, but rather threats from secret services. (See, for example, the panel discussion with Dr Keith Burton entitled "The Pioneers & Abolitionism" or "The Adventist Pioneers and Slavery" discussions on the Michigan Conference and blacksdahistory YouTube Channels.) The idea of championing those who are disadvantaged is a part of our Christian and SDA traditions. Let's not allow ourselves to be compromised by the desire to fit into our social circles or gain the benefits of status. Rather, let us be challenged to examine ourselves and, where necessary, stand out by exemplifying new depths of compassion so we may closely reflect the character of Christ in this world. In other news, area 4, under the dynamic leadership of Pastor Wilson Lagos, organised and executed 11 one-week reaping evangelistic campaigns. This was part of an exchange with the Mid-American Union, in which the Pastors of area 4 were invited to that territory to preach, and area 4 then hosted the overseas speakers under the theme 'Pentecost 2025'. Twenty-seven persons were baptised. I made an additional call at one site, and 11 people came forward to be prepared for baptism. The Greenwich Church, under the leadership of Pastor Otis Lewis, had five baptisms after another evangelistic series, with more in preparation for future baptisms. The leadership of Ps Wilfred Blake, along with intern Nicola Gooden and Bible worker Divinia Renolds, continues to bear fruit. The Walthamstow Church had four baptisms. After an evangelistic campaign, the Clapton SDA Church has just concluded it with another four baptisms. Ps. Wentworth Seawell also had three baptisms at the Peckham Church. Dr Devron Thomas recently completed a campaign at Beckenham Hope Community Church, during which several people were baptised. There are other ongoing campaigns and evangelistic programmes. If I missed your Church, it is because I do not have the information. Christ has called us to seek and save the lost, so let's be inspired for Mission! |
|
|
|
|
Dr. Kirk Thomas South England Conference President |
|
|
|
|
|
| Reflecting Hope Conference | |
| Lois Campbell-Ross | |
|
We are inviting you and your discipleship team to the third
and final year of the Reflecting Hope Training project from
Friday, 7th November to Sunday, 9th November 2025 at
the Leonardo Hotel Hinkley Island, Watling Street, Burbage,
Hickley, LE10 3JA. This year's theme is "Inspiring Hope Through Spirit-Empowered Discipleship: A Relational Journey of Loving the Lord, Living His Word, Loving People, and Living His Mission." You may book and pay for this training event by following the link below. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Stay Informed with SEC WhatsApp | |
| SEC Communications | |
|
Get the latest updates, market insights, and regulatory news
delivered straight to your phone. Follow the SEC WhatsApp
Channel for real-time notifications and never miss important
financial information. SEC WhatsApp Channel: Your direct line to SEC updates |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Barnstaple Health Checks Event | |
| Pastor Florin Oraseanu | |
| On Friday, September 26, 2025, a ‘new door’ was opened for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North Devon when members from the area served the community of people in Pannier Market, Barnstaple, through health screenings. It was the first time such a project had been planned and approved by the local authorities in the area. The focus of the day was not on the number of people served, although volunteers from Barnstaple SDA Group and Exeter SDA Church served almost 30 people in 5 hours. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Downham Community SDA Hosts Health and Community Outreach in Bromley Town Centre | |
| On Sabbath afternoon, 27th September 2025, the Downham Community Seventh-day Adventist Church had a very successful outreach in the Bromley Town Centre. The Health, Personal Ministries, and Community Services departments all came together and executed a wonderful programme, consisting of health checks for the community by nurses; a doctor was present to offer advice. Counselling leaflets from the Cornerstone Counselling Service (CCS) were made available by the counsellors. Books were distributed to the people, with requests for more Bibles — such an amazing experience. Cooked hot food was served. A table consisting of fruits and healthy wholesome products was displayed for the people to take. Singers added flavour to the occasion with joyful singing. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Flower Festival at Stanborough Park Church Supports Rennie Grove Hospice | |
| Stanborough Park Communications | |
| A Flower Festival in aid of the local Rennie Grove Hospice was held over the weekend of 3rd–5th October at Stanborough Park Church in Watford. The church sponsors a room at its local hospice called ‘The Stanborough Room’ and organises various fundraising events to support this. This time, a flower festival was the chosen event. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Portsmouth Church Evangelistic Campaign | |
| Felicia Glasgow | |
|
Join Us for an Inspiring Evangelistic Campaign this
October. Theme: The Way To True Happiness 🗓 Date: October 18–25 📍 Location: Portsmouth SDA Church 🎙️ Guest Speaker: A Dynamic and Spirit-Filled Pastor Wayne Smikle In a world filled with uncertainty and stress, discover the path to lasting peace, joy, and true happiness. Come and experience powerful messages, uplifting music, and heartfelt fellowship that will strengthen your faith and renew your hope. 📅 Program Schedule: * Saturday Morning: 9:45 AM * Saturday Afternoon: 3:00 PM * Nightly Meetings: 6:30 PM (No meeting on Thursday) 🍽️ Special lunch: Free lunch provided on Saturday! Invite your family, friends, neighbours, and coworkers — everyone is welcome! Let’s come together to explore God’s promises for our lives. We look forward to seeing you there! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Is the Bible Still Relevant in the 21st Century? | |
| Maxine Donovan | |
|
You cannot afford to miss the third session of the online,
Holy Ghost inspired Bible series,
‘Is the Bible Still Relevant in the 21st
Century,’ on
Sunday, 5 October from 7:00 – 8:15pm.
The speaker will be
Dr Ivan Milanov, Senior Lecturer at Newbold College, and he will be focusing on evidence from
prophecy. In addition to the presentation,
there will be Prayers, Testimonies and Music. Sunday, 3 August was the first session of the Bible series, and Pastor Mohan Abbadasari was the speaker. He gave a brief overview of the areas to be covered during the series – history, archaeology, prophecy and the power of the Bible to transform lives. He also added scientific evidence to show the relevance of the Bible. Sunday, 7 September was the second session and the speaker was Pastor Dr Robert Wright, Asst Professor at Northern Caribbean University in Jamaica. He looked at the evidence from history and archaeology to show without a shadow of a doubt that the Bible was still relevant and could be trusted. The penultimate session will be on Sunday, 16 November from 7:00 – 8:15pm, and the speaker is Pastor Dr Kenroy Campbell, Asst. Professor in the School of Religion & Theology – Northern Caribbean University. The final session on Sunday, 7 December will be a panel discussion. The panel will be made up of all the speakers, plus Helen De Coteau Grant, SEC School of Evangelism; and Pastor Dr Jude Jeanville. Start sending in your questions for the panel to discuss, to the email address below: pr@tottenhamlighthouse.org. The remaining sessions in the Bible series via Zoom are: 5 October, 7:00 – 8:15pm 16 November, 7:00 – 8:15pm 7 December, 7:00 – 8:30pm Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 839 7683 6479 Passcode: 215562 ALL ARE INVITED! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 60 SEC News | |
| Don Roberts | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Reflecting Hope Conference | |
| Lois Campbell-Ross | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Adventist-Jewish Relations Retreat | |
| Pastor Alex Mareniuc | |
|
You are warmly invited to the 2025
Adventist-Jewish Relations UK Retreat ,
taking place from 24–26 October at
Newbold College . This weekend is open to all who are interested in learning how to build meaningful bridges with the Jewish community through authentic friendship, spiritual insight, and practical ministry. 🗓️ Dates: Friday 24 Oct (6:30pm) – Sunday 26 Oct (2:00pm) 📍 Location: Newbold College, RG42 4AN 🎙️ Guest Speaker: Dr Reinaldo Siqueira, Director of the World Centre for Adventist-Jewish Relations Expect a rich time of learning, networking, and reflection , with all meals and accommodation included. 📧 Questions? ajr@secadventist.org.uk | 📞 01923 656506 Spaces are limited – register by 6 October or while availability lasts! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Adventist-Jewish Relations Retreat | |
| Pastor Alex Mareniuc | |
|
You are warmly invited to the 2025
Adventist-Jewish Relations UK Retreat ,
taking place from 24–26 October at
Newbold College . This weekend is open to all who are interested in learning how to build meaningful bridges with the Jewish community through authentic friendship, spiritual insight, and practical ministry. 🗓️ Dates: Friday 24 Oct (6:30pm) – Sunday 26 Oct (2:00pm) 📍 Location: Newbold College, RG42 4AN 🎙️ Guest Speaker: Dr Reinaldo Siqueira, Director of the World Centre for Adventist-Jewish Relations Expect a rich time of learning, networking, and reflection , with all meals and accommodation included. 📧 Questions? ajr@secadventist.org.uk | 📞 01923 656506 Spaces are limited – register by 6 October or while availability lasts! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| School of Evangelism | |
| Mavis Bramble | |
|
The School of Evangelism, Mission & Leadership is used to
train mission-driven members to learn theory whilst being
actively engaged in some outreach projects. Classes will be
offered virtually, in-house, or a combination of both. This
will depend on the teacher who is leading the course. COURSES START DATES ● CHAPLAINCY: 20th September 2025 ● LAY BIBLE WORKER/INSTRUCTION: 28th September 2025 ● CREATIVE WRITING FOR EVANGELISM: 28th September 2025 ● CONFLICT RESOLUTION: 5th October 2025 ● MUSLIM AWARENESS: 12th October 2025 ● PASTORAL MINISTRY & CARE: 17th October 2025 ● SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY & APOLOGETICS: 24th October 2025 Thanks for your service in God’s mission field, as we look forward to a rewarding school year. |
|
|
|
|
| Shifting Seasons Solofest 2025 | |
| Pastor Rio Espulgar | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Rejuvenation Conference | |
| Anastasia Ross | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Widows, Widowers and Families Day of Fellowship | |
| Pastor Rio Espulgar | |
|
We warmly invite you to a special Day of Fellowship
dedicated to widows, widowers, and their families with the
uplifting theme: Anchor in Hope. Venue: Jews' Free School, The Mall, Harrow HA3 9TE Time: 6th December, 2025 @ 10:00 AM Livestream: via SEC Media We are privileged to welcome two inspiring guest speakers: Dr. Augustus Lawrence and Sister Thembie Mapingire will minister words of healing, resilience, and God's abiding presence. We look forward to worshipping together and finding strength in our shared Anchor in Hope. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Evangelistic Campaign at Holloway | |
| Emeka Nwokoye | |
|
Theme: The Power of the Cross Date: 8th–15th November Times: 11:00 am (Sabbaths) & 7:00 pm Nightly Join us for a spirit-filled week of revival, reflection, and renewal as we explore the life-changing Power of the Cross. Led by Pastor Mario, each session will uplift, inspire, and remind us of the hope we find in Christ, with special items and music throughout the week. Can’t join us in person? Tune in live online via the Holloway website, or watch directly on our YouTube page, scan the QR code on the poster to connect or use the link below. Invite your friends and family, and together let’s taste and see that the Lord is good. There is power in the cross — come, let us experience that power together! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Sermon Structure & Types of Sermons | |
| Pastor Trevor Thomas | |
| This seminar for lay preachers begins on Friday, 10th October, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. We will explore the five elements that all sermons have in common, the four styles of sermons, the two methods of sermon presentations, and the tools of the preacher for presentation. This seminar is suitable and available to all; you can join on Google Meet. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Forecasting the Future | |
| Pastor Trevor Thomas | |
| This evangelistic series begins live on YouTube from Sunday, 19th October, 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. We will discover the truth about Jesus, who he is, why he came to earth, and how he saves us from the guilt of sin. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Discover the Heart of Chaplaincy | |
| Lois Campbell-Ross | |
|
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Newbold College of
Higher Education is a unique journey that enables you to
grow in empathy and pastoral skills under the guidance of
experienced professionals. Rooted in holistic care, it
nurtures understanding, inclusion, and compassion, helping
you serve others with a Christ-centred heart while deepening
your own spiritual insight. Through reflection, mentorship, and hands-on experience, you'll gain chaplaincy experience in diverse settings and develop a ministry style aligned with your calling. If you feel called to serve, CPE provides the support and space to grow into the kind of person who can minister to others with love, compassion, and courage. |
|
|
|
|
| Family Dynamics | |
| Pastor Hezron Adingo | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| “The Beauty of Brokenness” Women’s Retreat | |
| Florence Kadzombe Dulanya | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Messenger Latest Edition | |
| Sarah Jarvis | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Hay’s Wood Retreat | |
| Dorcia | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share this newsletter www.advent.ist/sec-162 |
|
Subscribe to newsletter www.advent.ist/sec-newsletter |
|
  
|
|
Address: 25 St Johns Road, WD17 1PZ Watford, UK Email: communication@secadventist.org.uk Phone: +44(0)1923 232 728 © 2025 All rights reserved Subscribe | Share to a friend | View it on web | Unsubscribe |