Reflections on the Reunion

by David Nelson
Dean of Academics

Reunion Coordinator

With the theme of “Once Upon a Journey… (Lessons from Hebrews),” dozens of graduates from New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Australia, Canada and Papua New Guinea congregated at the Otumoetai Church of Christ over the Queen’s Birthday weekend holiday (4-8 June 2010) and enjoyed a time of fellowship, reflection and rest at the South Pacific Bible College Lectureship and Graduate Reunion.  To say the least it was an inspiring and encouraging few days together to renew old friendships and reminisce.

SPBC Graduates caught everyone up with the many ways they have applied their biblical training.  These ranged from local church ministry to bringing street kids to Christ through music to teaching bikers about Jesus.  One graduate reminded us that SPBC was not a “finishing school” but a starting point.

Stimulating and challenging lessons were presented by our keynote speaker, Tim Woodroof.  His ability to craft his lessons into a story format to drive home his challenging and faith-building points was truly remarkable.  In addition, we were instructed and built up by lessons presented by Terry Brown (SPBC staff from ’82-85), Charles & Cara Speer (SPBC staff from ’86-89) and Donna Palmer.

Ken Young (of Hallel) directed our times of praise and worship.  His giftedness for leading worship helped make the weekend a truly faith-building and memorable experience.  A highlight was the Sunday morning worship where 220 people gathered together to praise and worship our God and to enjoy a time of fellowship and feasting afterwards. 

The weekend was enjoyable for all ages with Nick La Spina (DipAdBS’08, DipCM’09) organising a great Youth Rally in conjunction with the Reunion. 

The success of the lectureship would not have been possible without the preparation and behind the scenes work of the staff and faculty of the Bible College, the SPBC students, AIM students, a group of Harding students, and many others including a couple of young men from Chile.  All of these worked tirelessly to prepare the meals, set up and take down chairs and tables, record (audio and video) the whole lectureship, provide childcare and generally keep things flowing.

Again let me say “thank you” to all who participated in the 2010 SPBC Graduate Reunion & Lectureship.  We were all encouraged to continue on our journey.

Photos from top: Reunion Timeline,

Marca Young (Hallel Music, USA), Mele & Alani None (Tonga), Jab Mesa (PNG), and Ken Young (Hallel Music, USA)

Graduates enjoy fellowship.

Charles & Cara Speer ( USA), Sera and Aralai Naivalurua (Fiji)