Table of Contents
- Message From The Previous Minister
- Michael and Ping retired in July 2024
- New Minister, Archie Falisi
- New Typist, Ian Tan
- A prayer from Charles H. Welch
- Birmingham Conference, Saturday 20 April 2024
- Foundation Day, Saturday 25 May 2024
- Obituaries
- Events
Joints and Bands in centre pages
Joints and Bands are now in the centre pages of The B.E., this keeps everything neatly together, while still making it easy to remove. It also gives flexibility, to easily detach the Joints and Bands from the rest of the publication.
Michael and Ping retired in July 2024
Michael and Ping Garstang retired in the beginning of July 2024 after seventeen and a half years of ministry at The Chapel of the Opened Book, The Berean Publishing Trust. David Privett delivered a tribute speech to Michael and Ping’s retirement, as transcribed below:
I was astounded when I was asked to say a few words today. There are thosewho have worked more closely with Michael and Ping. I feel I may be speakingon behalf of those who don’t, and I am very much speaking as I see. This is not going to be formal, and in some ways, this is a bit unorthodox. I’ve had many conversations with Michael and Ping, over lunches and the odd dinner date. Each time, different qualities stood out to me, so it is all very much from my heart.
Michael and Ping have always been exceptionally courteous hosts, outstanding listeners, and beautifully tolerant towards anyone sincerely interested in understanding right division. I’m particularly intrigued by the ninety percent of the effort that often goes unseen, the work behind the scenes that bring about results.
Consider their constant commute into London, a return journey of over two hours from their home to the chapel, even by tube. This is not something I would relish on a regular basis. They’ve been here on Sundays, Wednesdays, and many other times during the week. I’ve even called and been surprised to find them at the chapel early in the morning or on Saturdays, tending to various needs.
Ping, in her role as Distribution Secretary, dealt with book orders and ensured swift dispatch. Even for overseas orders, Ping did it with the utmost care. I remember a particular instance when I tried to convince her not to bother with something minor, but Ping insisted on addressing even the smallest details. Her diligence and commitment are truly admirable.
Their dedication extended to countrywide conferences. Long-distance driving to places like Birmingham, Perth, and Preston, among others. I can’t recall a single instance where a meeting was canceled due to illness. Michael and Ping were always there whenever needed. I do recall times when Michael soldiered on despite clearly dealing with the effects of a heavy cold.
Michael is very focused, modest, and a superb listener with an amazing memory for Scripture, almost encyclopaedic. He has an exceptional grasp of dispensational reasoning and is well-acquainted with all the topics and concepts in The Berean Expositor. Every discussion with him left me with a better understanding.
Ping is vocal, passionate, obsessively industrious, and fastidious. Her energy is almost exhausting to watch, and she is fun loving, and a fantastic cook with a big heart.
They joined us in 2007 and considered retirement in 2016, but stayed on for an additional eight years, waiting for the right person to come along to take their place.
In summary, it has been more than worthwhile to have known Michael and Ping. We can all thank God for how we have benefited from their faithfulness in their respective roles. Their impact on us has been very tangible, very edifying, and very beneficial. I’m sure this sentiment is shared by everyone here today.
As Michael and Ping now look forward to their well-deserved retirement. We may catch glimpses of them in Zoomland in the coming months. I understand that Michael will be giving talks occasionally, possibly even while lounging in a deck chair by the beach.
Finally, and with all jokes aside, Michael and Ping, we cannot thank God enough for both of you. For your tremendous example of faithfulness to your calling, and your significant contributions towards upholding biblical and dispensational teachings.
Some of these remarks have been from a personal perspective, but I’ve also aimed to express what I believe we all, here and on Zoom, will remember with great fondness and esteem. We wish you both continued blessings, good health, and happiness in your soon-to-be well-deserved retirement.
By: David Privett
New Minister, Archie Falisi
I am both honoured and privileged to serve the Lord Jesus Christ as the new minister for The Berean Publishing Trust.
My desire is to open up the Scriptures and delve deeply into the Word of God. I will endeavour to share with you a deeper understanding of the dispensation of the mystery, and to unfold the greater riches and spiritual treasures found within His Word.
The four tenets of our ministry is the foundation by which we expound His Word rightly divided, as I take Paul’s advice given to Archippus, “take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.” (Col. 4:17).
New Typist, Ian Tan
I am honoured to succeed Ping Garstang as the typesetter for The Berean Expositor (The B.E.). Her unwavering dedication to precision and diligence leaves me with big shoes to fill. As I embark on mastering the skills of this work, I pray that I continue to uphold the high standards Ping has set for our publications.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to work for my Lord on The Berean Expositor. Many faithful saints devoted their lives to serve the Lord Jesus Christ. Their insightful expositions help illuminate God’s Word for many, encouraging us to study the Scriptures diligently and faithfully, rightly divided, “to be approved unto God” (2 Tim 2:15).
Upon commencing work on the July edition, I encountered challenges with the old computer previously used. To ensure a sustainable workflow, I transitioned to using my personal laptop for The B.E., but the shift resulted in technical hurdles that delayed the release of the July 2024 edition. The layout of the original B.E. had to be redrawn.
While redrawing the original B.E. layout, we took the opportunity to align it with the website for a cohesive visual identity. This led to the adoption of a wide horizontal blue banner, mirroring the website’s blue theme.
Altering The B.E.’s design has been a risky decision, as many readers appreciate the classic red vertical stripe on the cover. To honour this, we combined a narrower vertical stripe next to the title, while adding the new consistent blue colour scheme.
The main body font size has also been increased to enhance readability. Moreover, we incorporated The B.E.’s history and noted the regular fellowship meetings and Bible studies held at The Chapel of the Opened Book.
Thank you for your continued readership, we strive to provide a quality experience to our readers.
A prayer from Charles H. Welch
“Our God and Father we do thank Thee that we come into Thy presence, not with glibness of speech, not with a show of wisdom, not with any pretence of understanding, but as children come to a Father. And Lord there’s not a father that ever lived on earth that has filled out that name as Thou doest to us. And so we come to Thee with this holy boldness made ours through Thy beloved Son, and in that Son of Thine we, Thy children, are fully accepted unto Thy care, guided day by day. And we ask Thee that if we learn no other lesson this evening it may be that precious one that whatever the outside circumstance may appear, nothing can separate us from God our Father, nothing can imperil our trust in Him, nothing can come our way apart from His consent, and so we ask Thee for grace to be able to stand fast, hold fast, and wait patiently if needs be for Thee. We pray Thee to bless our meditations upon Thy Word, so that we may not only be sound in doctrine, and sound in practice but have a sound mind in connection with the things that have to do with our life, our walk, our peace and circumstances, and we thank Thee that Thy Word caters for every department of truth, it is true from the beginning and true right to the end. And so we commit ourselves in Thy glorious presence this evening believing for certain that everyone who comes to Thy Word with an open heart and a desire, will get the answer of peace… and in the teaching of Thy Word, they may experience that peace of God that passeth all understanding. And these things we ask in the name and for the sake of Him who loved us, gave Himself for us, the Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour”.
Birmingham Conference, Saturday 20 April 2024
Archie Falisi commenced the gathering with an opening prayer, after which he read from Psalm 24:1-10. There were a variety of speakers and also heartwarming personal testimonies. Jonathan Aspinall shared how he came to see the right division of the Scriptures and the truth of the mystery. Subsequently, Jon Wyatt offered his personal testimony, highlighting the value of pursuing treasures in heaven rather than earthly treasures.
The main speaker, Jonathan Tidswell, delivered a Bible Study message on the seven-fold Headship of Christ, summarised as follows:
- Creatively, John 1:1-3
- Racially, Acts 17:22-26
- Sacrificially, Isaiah 53:1-12; 1 Peter 2:24
- Dispensational, Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 1:18
- Physiologically, Psalm 118:22; 1 Peter 2:7
- Ecclesiastically, Ephesians 5:23-25
- Cosmically, Colossians 1:15-18; Colossians 2:9-10
Wayne Pickrell discussed Hebrews 11:1-6, highlighting the importance of living life fully for Christ in all areas and setting an example. Peter Ambrose explored Romans 16:1-27, emphasising the Apostle Paul’s warmth, followed by his warnings. Peter noted the references to Paul’s fellow workers and concluded with Paul’s praise and doxology.
Michael Garstang provided a brief history of the Birmingham Conference, tracing its beginnings to 2012 and discussing its continued relevance over the past 12 years. He announced that this would be his and Ping’s final Birmingham Conference before their retirement.
Foundation Day, Saturday 25 May 2024
Peter Ambrose opened the gathering by warmly welcoming all who attended in person or on zoom and expressed gratitude to those who travelled from afar to join in fellowship. Michael Garstang then presented the annual financial report, followed by a selection of hymns.
Archie Falisi served as the first speaker, delving into the “hope of Israel” in the book of Acts and the dispensational change post-Acts 28:28, leading to Paul’s prison epistles and ministry.
After an intermission of fellowship together, with lovely savoury and sweet dishes prepared by the ladies, Ian Tan commenced the proceedings. Graham Thomason presented Hebrews 1:1-4 and Hebrews 2:1-4, offering evidence supporting Paul’s authorship of the epistle to the Hebrews.
Later in the afternoon, Michael Garstang, the second speaker, discussed instances where New Testament writers quoted the Old Testament, highlighting the Holy Spirit’s role in providing unique perspectives. He referenced 1 Kings 19:18, cited in Romans 11:2-4, within the context of Elijah during the dark era of Baal worship in Israel. Michael emphasised that God’s Word remains pure and trustworthy, despite human error.
Obituaries
Since we last published The Joints and Bands, many dear friends have passed away, it has been deeply saddening to hear this news. Our heartfelt prayers are with their families during this difficult time.
Marjorie Marple
Marjorie was well-known and cherished throughout the years, particularly remembered for her fellowship at the “big meetings” held each May and September. Alongside Barry, her husband, who was for many years the secretary, Marjorie played a vital role as the “audio tape loan librarian.” She managed the distribution of audio tape recordings, often including a personal letter of greeting and friendship. Marjorie fell asleep in Christ peacefully, and her funeral was held in Derby on 20 May 2024.
Andrew Kafouris
One of the twins, Andrew, known and remembered since the time of Stuart Allen, passed away on the 05 June 2024 after a courageous battle with a brain tumour. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his brother Nicholas, who is deeply mourning the loss of his twin sibling. The funeral service for Andrew was held in the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Camden Town, London.
Moira Reading
A familiar and cherished presence who attended the Scottish conference in past years, died on the 16 June 2024, after enduring significant health struggles throughout the year. She resided in Cherry Willingham, near Lincoln. Her unwavering dedication to her faith was evident in her commitment to attend the Birmingham Conference a few years ago, making the journey each way by taxi.
Events
An Invitation to the 81st Anniversary Weekend
at the Chapel of the Opened Book.
All welcome.
Sat 28 Sep 2024
1st Speaker, 2:00pm (14:00)
2nd Speaker, 4:30pm (16:30)
Sun 29 Sep 2024
1:00pm (13:00)
For enquiries and directions:
The Chapel of the Opened Book
52A Wilson Street, London, EC2A 2ER, UK
BPT is exhibiting at Christian Resource Exhibition 2024
Wed 9 Oct 2024 – Thu 10 Oct 2024
Stand B5
Christian Resource Exhibition 2024 (CRE 2024)
Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes, MK1 1ST, UK