Archive for the ‘80th Birthday Messages’ Category

Col & Val Friend…
Dear Des,
I want to apologise for not being able to attend your 80th birthday but there are some things I want to put on paper.
80 years of age for Des Ford will be the beginning of a new chapter in your story book of life. Moses did not really start to do mighty things for God until he was 80 and his eye never dimmed nor his strength abated. I am looking forward to reading the next chapter in your book of life.
I met you for the very first time at the Brisbane Adventist camp in 1964. This young preacher took a stirring Sabbath service which made me rush off to the Adventist Book Centre on Sunday morning in an attempt to find something you had authored. On that occasion all I could find on the shelf was a little red booklet entitled “Unlocking God’s Treasury”. I purchased the booklet and rushed off to ask if you would sign it as the author which you agreed to do. I have just found the booklet in my library and the pages have turned all yellow but your signature is as fresh as it was the day you signed. There must be a moral to this story somewhere.
I always enjoyed your annual visits to the Central Queensland University that our mutual friend the late Peter Lawson would arrange through the Campus Ministries. You would always challenge the students to search the scriptures for themselves and not be content with traditional interpretation of the Bible. Your presentation was always followed by enthusiastic questions from the students. It is remarkable how mind pictures never age and when I think of Des Ford, I do not have a mind picture of an 80 year old man but rather that of a vibrant speaker full of life, and extolling the virtues of our loving Saviour.
You have a gift Des, for presenting complex issues in a way that the listener both academic and lay person can appreciate.
May you be granted God’s richest blessing on your 80th birthday.
Col & Val Friend.

Ken Lawson…
I first met Des at Avondale College in 1965. His classes were packed in the Lecture Theatre every time I was there. I never had a teacher like him and no other at Avondale could match his standard. He never used notes and when checking his work, he was always spot on. He was amazing.
Then when he spoke in Chapel for Vespers there was a buzz across Campus….Des is speaking and almost everyone was excited. It was because Christ met with us in a special appointment. Those memories will last for eternity.
Des was so kind to me, one of his poorest students, and that provided encouragement to continue. When he was sacked it was as though the light went out on Adventism.
The years have gone and Des is still so kind to this poor student, but this student has learnt a lot.
What an honour to still have opportunity to learn from my teacher 44 years later, and he still sets the standard so high, one cannot jump over it, but strive to do ones best.
I read papers from across the world from theologians of the church, and still it seems no one reaches the bar set by example and dedication….
Des is a good friend, a mate, a dinkum Aussie, a true blue,
a great preacher, a leader of the pack, and yet a humble salt, who walks the Streets of Caloundra, almost unnoticed…a kind, courteous, tender-hearted, and loving gentleman of belonging…. to Christ.
Thousands today say thankyou Des for the years of service to Christ.
Thankyou for all the encouragement, and foresight and the help you have been to bumbling, stumbling Adventism.
You singlehandedly turned Adventism into a gospel movement and maybe it will yet do what it needs to do.
Blessings
Ken L Lawson

Jane Matthews…
Before I met Des, I was a prisoner – a prisoner to the shackles of dogmas, rules and regulations. I did not feel free to love other people who belong to other denominations. I even felt guilty associating with them. After I heard the true gospel through Des and company, I was set free! Hallelujah! What a gift!
I will always admire Des for his courage and integrity to follow his convictions, not counting the cost. To this day, he and Gill are still giving, not just books but of themselves!
Des, Gill, I don\’t think I have ever thanked you for what you have done. This is my opportunity and will not want to let it pass. Thank you! You are a blessing to others because of who you are.
Jane
California

Gillie…
I am Jane Matthew\’s sister here in California. Des stayed with us at our house in California and even in the Philippines. I want to share my thoughts and experiences if allowed to.
GREETINGS DR. DES!
I had eagerly waited for the articles you wrote in SDA magazines when I was still a kid. I was saddened when it stopped coming and tried hard to know, because I needed more refreshing/inspirational messages. I got hold of a magazine which printed your thoughts about the investigative judgment. They made sense.
I heard from my sister Jane that you had been requested to visit the Philippines. That was a welcome treat. That experience made clear several issues which had loomed in the recesses of my mind, carefully kept until clarification was available. Those times you were with us, cleared up the doctrinal issues and I sank deeper into the Fount of Truth.
Other than religious issues, I learned that I wasn\’t physically fit as I thought I was. My sisters who were both physicians and I, prided ourselves as the fastest joggers and with the most endurance until you came and left us a mile away panting while you were just relaxed as you breezed your way.
I also witnessed how you can adjust with the circumstances you were in — from an adventurous outreach to the outskirts of Manila and staying in a shack with improvised washrooms to staying in 5-star hotels. It was the same with you– an opportunity to share your Creator-Friend with everyone.
I also learned that Manila mango and young coconut are top in your list of food. hi,hi,hi.
Visiting you at Auburn, California, you gave us books for free. I happened also to get Gillian\’s book. What is still fresh in my memory was when you ran after us to give us more books. That picture made me resolve once and for all to do all I can to support your ministry, as long as I am able.
Truly you have touched my life, my family\’s life including our late sister and mom, and thousands more. Your intelligence, bravery and integrity is very inspiring. I can see God\’s handiwork getting perfected as I see you.
SHALOM, DR, DES!
Gillie

Erv Taylor…
On the Celebration of Desmond Ford’s 80th Birthday
My personal contact with Des has been relatively recent but his distinguished reputation and the great contributions that he has made to evangelical Christian thought, and specifically to his natal church, have long preceded him in the part of the world I inhabit—California, USA.
Those who have known him for his entire career deserve long messages and thus I will only contribute a brief comment.
That one agrees or disagrees on minor points of speculative theology is irrelevant to the greater good to which Des has contributed. He has upheld a prophetic vision that has inspired thousands to follow a better way that constitutes basic Christianity.
It was the great honor to those of us involved with Adventist Today to be able to sponsor the presentations that Des made at the Spiritual Renaissance Retreat in Monterey, California several years ago and at Loma Linda, California more recently when he gave the Richard Hammill Memorial Lecture. It was also our great fortune to be able to publish his biography \”Desmond Ford: Reformist Theologian, Gospel Revivalist\” by Milton Hook. It is with sincere appreciation for all that you, Des, have done for our own faith community and in advancing the larger Christian message in our time, that I am honored to be included in this compilation of salutes on your 80th.
With all best wishes,
Erv Taylor
Loma Linda, California

Dick & Tatyana Noel…
Dear brother Desmond!
Happy Birthday to you! We love you and value your experience and teaching so much!
We praise God that like Daniel you have already emerged from the Lion\’s den to praise God and continue your work for Him. May we all continue to praise God in everything and see Him soon in the clouds of Glory.
Dick and Tatyana Noel

The Incandescent Presence of Des
By Gillian Ford
Well, here we are, and it’s D-Day. Desmond-Day. I first met Des Ford in 1966 in class. I was a new Adventist, and my first Bible class at Avondale College was Daniel and Revelation. It was a class of over 100 people and I sat near the back row. Des first noticed me because I was often in deep conversation with Diane White during his lectures. People didn’t usually talk during Des’s classes. Des didn’t tell me to stop talking, as I recall, but he instead tried to distract me with questions, to which I had no answers because I had been talking to Diane. Something must have gotten in, however, as when it came to the 40-page essay, I wrote about Antiochus Epiphanes, which I apparently learned about through osmosis while I was talking. Des told me just before we married that he would have been fired had he written that essay, but really I just heard what he said. I had met my roommate Eunice Phillips from Manchester on the train coming up from Sydney on our way to college that same year. We were both 21 and from England, and neither of us knew anyone else at college. We noticed that Des moved fast and immediately christened him Desmond the Dachshund.
Don’t think that I am going to go into such detail over the next 40 years, since unbelievably that’s nearly how long we’ve been married. But Desmond the Dachshund does lead into my comments on Des as a fast mover, shaker and worker. If you were to draw an abstract figure of Des, you’d have to have him leaning forward, arms gesticulating and legs pumping, and on the move. There would also have to be a light bulb switched on in the brain. This meant decisions were made fast, such jobs as packing were done rough and fast, driving was fast and sometimes hair-raising, pots were always cooked with the elements on high. If there was a ‘very high’ or an ‘extremely high’, ‘blazing’, or ‘incandescent’ notch on the knob on the cooker, Des would pick the highest. Many pots succumbed, blackened or melted. Windows were always open, whatever the weather, and curtains flew and froze horizontal in the winter Arctic breezes. High energy, great intensity, fast movement, rapid speech—you get the picture. And yet, as a Chinese doctor said to me, after working on Des’s pulses, ‘This man has great inner peace, like a Buddha’. So this is the picture: cyclonic but benevolent activity, with a calm and gentle centre; a rational, thoughtful person with a happy nature and a very even temperament. This leads into my part-time career as Des’s bookmaker as I tried to keep pace. In the early hours, Des, after waking immediately into full and ebullient consciousness, was primed ready to go, though the sun had not risen.
The brain was baptised each day with hours of Bible study and other reading. Much exercise was taken. In his diary in the 1990s, over here for a speaking tour, Des wrote, ‘I walked 20 miles and had four swims today’. He was hardest on himself, exerting exacting and unsparing self-discipline in every area of life. He had learned to rest before meals, or else he could not eat because of much study. When he wrote, typing faster than me at over 100 words per minute, fingers flying over the keys, the words, coherent and cogent, flowed out as from a sweet spring. Two PhDs of quality, done in 18 months each, unheard of; the black Daniel, essentially written in three weeks; Crisis, his commentary on Revelation, a series of nearly 1,000 pages, written in five weeks. And for a recent example, Jesus Only, written in two weeks, and Jesus Only and For the Sake of the Gospel together written and produced in three months. And of course, there was the preparation and delivery of many thousands of sermons. Des focused his life, his mind, body and energies on the one great thing, God’s work, and the one great Person, Jesus. To the great questions of our age and the problems of this generation, Des has offered Jesus as the only solution.
Because of his early exposure to such writers as Spurgeon and following Ellen White’s admonitions to make Christ central, Jesus, his person and his great work of salvation became the centre of Des’s ministry. His great interest in prophecy and eschatology, the study of last things, led to changes in thinking—primarily because Christ and the gospel are to be the benchmark of all interpretation. Seeing the book of Revelation, not just as a revelation of a denomination’s journey through to the end, but as a Revelation of Jesus Christ and his work, made everything new. Science may be interesting, prophecy may be fascinating, but the Bible is about Christ, the God-man, the Saviour of the World, and our Redeemer. Christ casts light on everything else, not the other way around. In the end, Des will be remembered for making Jesus central and real to many, trying to make the difficult plain, and the rugged path accessible. He has been busy about his Master’s work; he has been kind and supportive to his friends; and he has been most charitable to his enemies.
I salute Des as ‘true blue’, the real thing, honest, a person of the highest integrity, as someone who stands and lives for what he believes, a non-political creature, and a person for whom my love and respect has grown over the years. I want to thank him for teaching me the way of salvation and reflecting the love of Christ in his care, compassion, encouragement and support for me as well as his family. I would also like to mention Gwen, Des’s first love, and salute her for her devotion, spirituality and gentleness and her part in Des’s first forty years. They were twin souls and thought alike, and her memory is a sweet perfume to all who knew her.
Happy birthday, Des! May you have many more happy and healthy years. Maybe we can have another of these gatherings in ten years. The universe approves of you. You are God’s man and it was a great blessing to us all that you were born.
May the Lord continue to shine his light upon you.
Gill
On the occasion of his 80th birthday . . .

From Elenne
Today as we celebrate four fifths of father’s life (yes he is living until he is 100 years old, maybe forever, if we do God’s work in this world) there are so many stories from his past that have not been widely heard. I want them to be heard, as without them you do not have the full picture.
I first met my father about a month after I was born in late 1955. I know he was involved in my early care as the family story survives of him holding me after removing my nappy and before he could fix a fresh one in place I dropped neatly into his dressing gown pocket a ‘not so sweet’ something.
My first recollection of him that I can now recall is, as a three year old, seeing him in his bunk on board ship during bad weather in 1958 / early 1959. I was excited about the facilities for children on board the ship and wanted to show him the mosaic of a fish I had made in the kindergarten. He and my mother were too overcome with seasickness to be very interested in my fish. The return journey in 1961 was much more fun. We shared a cabin and took great glee in going to the dining room together for cherry pie and cream! But there was lots of fun in America too – a ride on his shoulders to see Premier Khrushchev, the many winter evenings when my brother and I would climb all over him, riding him like a camel and being lifted high in the air on his feet.
As a father he did everything in his power to instil confidence into his children and the belief that anything is possible with God’s help. We never sensed any fear in him and he always encouraged us to ‘give it a go’ – whether it was finding my way alone as a 5-year-old from the college cafeteria to our new home out past the water tower, or climbing a cliff face to pick an orchid (even though he had to rescue me by hanging from a tree over the cliff so I could climb up his legs), or swimming across an expanse of Lake Macquarie – although I was happy that he swam out to meet me half way, or bribing me to swim across Dora Creek every day for a year.
Given his workload and study habits you would think that we only had glimpses of him growing up but in fact I was never aware of his pressing schedule. Instead every day he would read to us, conduct a daily devotional, lie on the floor while we ate a meal so he could chat or just listen to us tell him about our day. We had camping trips and bike trips, bush walks and boat rides and always lots of stories to fire up our imagination. He used to row our old homemade boat, purchased from the ‘donkey man’, up Dora Creek and out to Pulbar Island with all our provisions for a camping holiday. And what a great camp cook he was –
so ingenious. He used to wade out into the lake and scoop up a little water to make a delicious stew.
I always felt very loved and that there was nothing he wouldn’t do for us. He was conscientious, attentive, untiring and patient as a parent. I recall feeling unwell one day in the late 1960’s when we were living on the edge of Lake Macquarie. I told him that all I felt like eating was a cucumber. So he rode his bicycle for miles looking for the mobile green grocer that used to serve the scattered lake communities. His persistence paid off and home he came with the longed for cucumber.
It was not that many years ago that I asked him whether he had any faults and I was surprised to hear him say that he was impatient. I had never experienced it. And yet I
was enough to try the patience of any saint. In fact each of us children has been a heavy burden on his heart in one way or another over the years.
Life has been very hard for him and yet he never complained, was always good-humoured and never spoke badly of anyone. We learned that comments such as ‘they mean well’ or ‘God loves them’ meant that father was struggling to say something positive about the person.
I have always been able to tell my father the good, the bad and the ugly without any fear of condemnation or chastisement. When I chose to leave God out of my life for more than 12 years he just loved me – there were no lectures, no nagging, no criticism – just love and no doubt many prayers. It was his influence alone that brought me back from the brink. God must exist and must be powerful. Divine strength is the only explanation for what I have observed in my father. Lack of sleep night after night as he listened to see if my mother was still breathing, while juggling the huge demands of teaching, preaching and caring for the family did not change him. He was unjustly accused, misunderstood and maligned and stripped of credentials and employment and yet he has always had a sweet forgiving spirit. He is the same at home as he is when in public view.
My daily prayer and my prayer for today is that we will be back here in 20 years to celebrate 100 years of his life and service.
Elenne

Speech by Robert Porter…
Congratulations! Des, you are 80!
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Kevin Ferris
Guest of Honour, Dr. Desmond Ford
Wife Gill, family, ladies and gentlemen
It is an honour beyond compare for me to present on this auspicious occasion words of hearty congratulation and deep personal admiration and affection for this truly great and amazing man of God.
Des you are without doubt our highly esteemed, much-loved brother and good friend.
The depth of the Porter’s love and height of our admiration can only be measured today by the fact that Corrie and I have spent over $2,000.00 to be here. Now that’s going far beyond the pecuniary boundaries for one of Scottish heritage. Add to that the fact that we are prepared to risk our lives in your Queensland humidity. We are here. You are our inspiration.
I have entitled my talk ‘The Soteriological and Eschatological Implications of the Influence of Dr. Des Ford’s teaching in Adventism’.
A young S.D.A. boy was playing in the park near his home when he was joined by a newcomer. Being missionary minded, the lad invited him to Sabbath School the next day. The new boy on the block scampered off excitedly and enthusiastically to ask permission of his mum. He duly and dejectedly returned with this reply, ‘I can’t come ‘cos you belong to a different ABOMINATION’. Food for thought!
My first encounter with Pastor Des Ford was in the Ophir Glen Burringbar Church Hall in 1954/56. I was 12-13 years of age. That memorable occasion featuring a gospel study on the story of Esther was a red-letter night for me and left and indelible life-long impression and treasured memory. That night presentation set a fire burning on the cold hearth of a sinful, desolate heart. Now, praise God, by the undeserved grace of God, though, the coals have often flickered low, that fire once lit by Des has never been extinguished.
The following year or so; probably 1956/57, there was a second chance encounter. It was at Des’s home in Inverell. The Rayner boys from Mullumbimby and myself were travelling through to the Bryce property at North Star to go shooting.
Des exuberantly greeted the four of us at his home, with a firm handshake and characteristic slap on the shoulder. Then followed a brief prayer asking for God’s favour to lead and guide this young pilgrim, who, by the way, was on a journey to nowhere spiritually. However, Des’s prayer and kindly attention for a young, shy lost soul left a life-long legacy.
My third encounter was life-changing. I was at the crossroads of my youthful life’s journey. I was 19 years old. The year 1960. The Providence of God had led me to (Continued)
Des’s weatherboard home on College Drive, Avondale, Cooranbong. Again Des offered a brief prayer for God to indicate my future direction. This request was
answered in a providential and miraculous way that very same Sunday evening at College registration.
My path was set. I was chosen by God to teach and preach. It was soon my life-changing privilege to sit at the feet of one of God’s exceptional gospel teachers. Could I say, matchless, unequalled. Des, your presentations of the Life and Teachings of Jesus were one of the seven wonders of 20th Century Bible teachings. The other six wonders were your other classes.
Des, you dug deep into the inestimable treasure of God’s mine of sacred truth and brought to the surface and displayed the glorious, unsurpassable wealth and riches of the Gospel so that we sat spellbound in excited, inspired wonderment and awed amazement.
Your articulate, matchless, inspirational ability to take the great, profound themes of the Word of God and make them plain to the wayfaring man has been an undeserved yet rich endowment to us all.
You were the refreshing, enervating, life-giving oasis of God in the 20th century parched desert of Adventism. Your keys to life unlocked the painful shackles of legalistic religion that bound us in spiritual desperation and darkness. Your message of hope through the Righteousness of Christ set us free. You were the Mount Everest of gospel preaching in the 20th, 21st century—the high water mark, the breath of fresh air in the ecclesia of God. Your unveiling of the knotted skein of Adventist soteriology, eschatology and apocalyptic has been nothing short of the miraculous and divine providence!
We are forever indebted to your invaluable, priceless knowledge and exegesis; your inestimable presentations of the World of God. We now know that ‘we are complete in Christ’, ‘we are accepted in the Beloved’, translated out of darkness into the glorious light of the gospel, seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that God is for us and not against us, that all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men. He that has the Son has life.
Then we are also indebted to you for your one liners. They are proverbial.
God either matters supremely, or he doesn’t matter at all.
It’s not who you are, but whose you are.
Never concentrate on your love for God, concentrate on God’s love for you.
We are not saved by faith and works; we are saved by a faith that works.
We don’t have to be good to be saved; we do have to be saved to be good.
Our daughter Pam, in her time of trouble, said her lifeline were these words from Des: ‘Nothing you can do can make God love you more. Nothing you can do can make God love you less’.
Des, your magnetic enthusiasm drew us all to the highest point of human experience; kneeling at the foot of the Cross.
Just as Mount Fuji is in every Japanese painting, Jesus Christ has appeared high and lifted up in your every presentation. We have listened, we have been inspired, encourage, enamoured, enriched. We have been to Calvary, and we, too, have been renewed, restored and changed.
Now, example is greater than precept. you have talked the talk and walked the walk. You have forgiven the unforgivable. We applaud, honour and salute you for your faithful legacy to us.
I was once despondent and discouraged, can I say I am forever indebted for the shorted sermon you ever preached. I said to you, ‘I am quitting’; you said to me, ‘Robert, not man having put his hand to the plough and turning back is fit for the kingdom of God. My hand is still on the plough. Thank God! Thank God!
Des, you know what it is to be crushed in the crucible of trial, but in your case the crushing only intensified the delightful aroma of the Rose of Sharon, the Lily of the Valley, dwelling in you. The experiences enhanced your character and blessed us. For that, I thank you.
And I thank you that our youngest daughter Lisa, who was ‘dead in trespasses and sins’, within the very gates of hell, has been rescued and drawn to the throne room of heaven by your ministry.
Des Ford, you are a valiant hero of the faith. You are a kind, compassionate, gentle and faithful, wise and humble servant of our Saviour. You are a real man of God; a true and trustworthy shepherd of the flock; a teacher par excellence; an inimitable example, and a theologian of all theologians. May you ever be conscious of the fact that God’s will will never take you where his grace cannot keep you.
Today we salute your diligent pursuit of excellence; your unswerving commitment to truth, to God, to your fellow men; and your good fight of faith. We thank Jesus for you.
In the words of Saint Peter, ‘we are kept by the power of God until He comes’. I wish you this keeping until you look into the beautiful face of Jesus, the one you love dearly and whom you have so faithfully exhorted and enthusiastically uplifted.
Desmond Ford, we love you, we respect you; we appreciate and admire you. We pray God willing we will be with you at your ninetieth birthday celebration. If not, by God’s grace we will meet in the Kingdom of heaven soon to come.
God bless and keep you for all eternity.
Robert and Corrie Porter and families

A Student Get’s One Back
DES, AT YOUR WORD OPENED A DOOR INVITING
TEACHER AND TAUGHT TO FEAST DELIGHTFULLY
YOU THE “GIRAFFA camelopardalis”*.
WE “MELEAGRIDS”* SUSTAINED FROM LOFTY TREE.
GREAT THE HEIGHTS, THE WIDE SPACES CALLING;
BURDENS TO BEAT WE COULD NOT THEN SEE.
THOSE HALLOWED MEMORIES KEEP ROLLING –
LOFTY THOUGHTS ERE WE SHIPPED OUT TO SEA.
MALIGNANT “ONTOLOGY”+ WE CHEWED ON AND SPAT
“EXISTENCE” IT SURE LINKED WITH “SHALL”^
“APOTLESMATIC” – THE GOOD THINGS IN LIFE WERE THAT
WITH THE UPSWING IN “DIALECTICAL.”
FEAST WE YET IN JOYFUL AFFIRMATION
THOUGH DIMLY SEEN OF WHAT WAS YET TO BE
SALUTE WE STILL IN WONDROUS CONTEMPLATION
YOU, WHOSE TWIGS WE SHARED, AND WILL, ETERNALLY.
*The zoological designation for giraffes.
#Likewise for turkeys
+Sure seemed close to oncology back then.
^Existential
Dear Des, we won’t be HERE for you next eightieth, but we have our place names readied THERE!
Alan Smith

A committee Sits in Judgment
ACADEMIC COMMITTEE MEETING
Avondale College circa early 60’s
(Presenters: Arnold Reye: Chairman, Peter Williams, Greig Lipman, Kevin Ferris)
Scene: At the planned moment four gentlemen walk into the room and take a seat around a table. The MC announces “We will now take a look in at an academic committee meeting sitting at Avondale College back in the sixties.”
Arnold: Thank you for turning up, particularly under these circumstances.
Kevin: I get the feeling there are spectators in this room. (Looks around).
Greig: Are they from the right or from the left?
Kevin: Well……from what’s coming t

Dennis & Pat Tedman…
Hello Des,
What a wonderful milestone in your life, eighty years and still going strong! Happy birthday and we wish you happy years ahead.
Dennis and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for speaking out for Truth as you have been lead by the Holy Spirit. You have been one of many who have not been afraid to bring the light of the Gospel into a world living in darkness. The knowledge of the assurance of salvation has been a great blessing to us over almost thirty years from when we first started to really search the Scriptures, because of questions raised by yourself in the Adventist Church.
God bless you on the 2nd of February and always
Dennis and Pat Tedman

Jane Lawson…
Dear Des,
I know I speak for Peter as well as myself when I say THANKYOU for the encouragement and inspiration you have shared over many years. When you visited us in Rockhampton your message of free salvation was welcomed by all who attended your meetings, not just by the Christians who attended but by those who were searching. We had so many enthusiastic comments after every visit.
On a personal basis you inspired our own children to stay interested through some difficult years. You always remembered them and some of their exploits in spite of the months between visits and gave them a very balanced portrait of God and his grace. Peter was delighted to have time to talk with you
And he looked forward to your visits with eager anticipation.
Congratulations on your eightieth birthday. Congratulations on the courage and commitment you have shown us all in that time.
Kindest regards to you and Gillian,
Jane Lawson

Stuart Tyner…
I was nervous the first time we met. A total stranger. One of those impudent Americans, I was afraid you were thinking, who think they can just call on anyone, anytime they please. Why don\’t they leave me alone, I was sure you were wishing. But the two of you greeted me so warmly, the lemonade was so refreshing, your home so welcoming, the conversation so easy. Des, you asked about La Sierra people you knew, and about my family, and in just moments I was relaxed enough to ask for more lemonade.
And then you asked me why I had wanted to come all the way from Brisbane Camp to your home. You won\’t remember the conversation in the midst of the thousands you have been open to, but I\’ll always remember every word. I told you that I wanted you to know that I didn\’t belong to a church that told me who I could be friends with. You answered with a long description of the Adventist community in Australia, with not one single, negative word about any one! That may have been the most revealing moment in the hour I had with you that afternoon; no criticism, no bitterness, no recrimination, just one man sitting in his chair refusing to say anything but good about others. Thank you for that high standard and shining example.
Two things you have written are cherished by me. They\’re both personal. I couldn\’t begin to chose from the thousands of Christ-centered, grace-oriented words about Jesus being the center and how we Christians are all about sharing the gospel. Those words are standard in my life and ministry. But these two things you said to me. \”To Stuart, With love,\” you wrote inside the copy of \”In the Heart of Daniel\” that you ran upstairs and got for me. That makes the book even more precious to me!
And then you emailed me the best review of my book on grace I\’ve ever read, and coming from you, it\’s even more meaningful. You said my book was \”a treat.\” I\’ve never appreciated a review more than that. Although, for some reason, I couldn\’t get Pacific Press to use it!!!
Thanks for all you are, all you have done and are still doing, all the nudges you\’ve given us to keep being centered on Christ. Your hard work has not been in vain. And don\’t stop now! The inexhaustible theme of Jesus still needs to be explored and expressed. We need you to keep studying and keep writing.
With love and admiration,
Stuart Tyner
(Author: “Searching for the God of Grace,” & “Grace Notes.” )

Morrie & Bernice Kreig…
Message to Des Ford on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
G\’day Des! Congratulations on reaching your eightieth year. A testament to the love and grace of our great God and saviour and also to your willingness to follow the path laid out for you. Bernice and I certainly are honoured to have been invited to this celebration and are very sorry that we are unable to be there with you. It would have been interesting to see if we could have come up with a chocolate flavoured carrot and banana smoothie!!
All jokes aside Des, you have been an inspiration to Bernice and myself for many years. Your focus on the cross and the implications it has in our lives, has lead us to seek a better understanding of ourselves and our beliefs. You opened up another world of study and viewpoints that was hidden from us and for that, we are eternally grateful. A Franciscan monk by the name of Richard Rohr recently said, (and I paraphrase), that a prophet is one who troubles the waters of the status quo and enables people to plot the course through the rapids to the shore. Des, you have done just that. You have constantly upheld God\’s word as the only rule of faith and practice and you have shown the way with the clear light of the gospel.
But you also lived what you taught. It wasn\’t just words from you Des, it was a shining example of living what you taught. Des, all Bernice and I can say is, thank you for being prepared to be God\’s man, to share God\’s word and to be where God wants you to be. To personalise Romans 15:13. \”May the God of hope continue to give you joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit\”. We love you and admire you because you point us to Jesus in word and deed. There is no greater work.
A poet once said,
That person is a success, who has lived well,
laughed often and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of intelligent people
and the love of children;
Who has filled their niche and accomplished their task:
Who will leave the world better than they found it,
Who has never lacked appreciation of earth\’s beauty
Or failed to express it:
Who looked for the best in others
and gave the best they had.
Des, we think that describes you.
With love,
Morrie and Bernice Krieg.

Eric Webster…
Dear Des,
I would like to congratulate you on reaching the milestone of 80 in the journey of life. Thank you for your Christ-centred life and we give thanks to our Heavenly Father for all that has been done through you for the Kingdom of grace. Unto the Lamb be all glory and honour.
God bless you in the next 20 years should we not yet be ushered into the Kingdom of glory.
Your friend and brother in Christ.
Eric Webster

Alan & Florance Jones…
Hi Des,
Congratulations and sincere best wishes for many more happy birthdays. Your life and works have been an inspiration to us. We just wish your gospel emphasis was present in all other sermons we hear. Love to you both
Alan & Florance Jones

Peter & Bobs Williams…
Thank you for your many sermons of hope, encouragement and inspiration over the last half century.
A special thank you for the time taken to write to us when we have had questions we have needed answering. I can remember your letters to my father those many years ago which he shared with us.
May God continue to bless you in every way.
Peter and Bobs Williams

Vivian Lee…
Des, Dear Friend,
Congratulations on surviving all the pitfalls of living on this planet 80 yrs & being in such great form mentally & physically! The personal joys & sorrows, terrors of travel millions of miles & suffering accidents, psychological batterings (such as Glacier View), endless research & writing, preaching & teaching have only made you manifest your “gold”.
Thank you for the privilege of knowing you these past 30 yrs! Harlan & I were so blessed to have been able to commute the 200 mi trip from Reno to Auburn, Ca nearly every weekend when weather permitted. The Sabbaths you taught were the light of our lives for several years. When my work took us much further away, we felt so-o-o lost! Then when you & Gill decided to move back to Australia it was as if we’d lost part of our family.
I shall long remember the wisdom & counsel you gave me whenever I requested your advise. (not that I could always follow it!)
It amazes me how self-disciplined you are and what an example you manifest of Christlike courtesy & tolerance toward everyone—even those who have violently disagreed with/opposed you.
The respect & love you show toward Gill while letting her be a successful professional in her own right; the kindness in making time to share the heartaches & concerns of your family, congregation & friends have not gone unnoticed. Yet you can draw strict boundaries to preserve your physical & mental health; wow! I wish I had been able to do the same!
It is awesome how you are able to devour so much reading material daily, write prolifically & leave such a heritage to society. (I must admit, tho’, that your preaching is much easier for me to absorb than your written works—my weakness!) Just recently I’ve been re-listening to the series you gave on
The Life of our Messiah—marvellous!
Thank you for being a friend, pastor, teacher and example of Christ’s love in action. I sincerely wish I could attend you birthday event in person. May God bless you profusely on you 80th birthday & grant you many more.
With Christian love,
Dr. Vivian Lee

Tom Norris…
Dr. Ford Tribute Today, the mere mention of Dr. Ford\’s name brings instant recognition, and polarization, to the Adventist Community. His exile from the SDA Denomination in 1980 was a tragic mistake that resulted in the greatest of all SDA schisms, – one that is still ongoing to this very day. In fact, since Glacier View, millions have left the SDA church because they agree with Dr. Ford\’s theology and repudiate the legalistic doctrine of the Investigative Judgment. Thanks to Dr. Ford, the vast majority of Adventists now dismiss this silly propaganda associated with Old Covenant, hierarchical Adventism. Although Dr. Ford\’s views were purposefully demonized and misrepresented by the church leaders, many have since came to understand that he was correct. It was the church leaders who were guilty of denying the fundamentals from Historic Adventism, not Dr. Ford. They were the ones fighting against the Gospel as well as against the views of the Pioneers. Thus the leaders presented false testimony from Ellen White against Dr. Ford at Glacier View, even as the White Estate was actively suppressing the facts that would have exonerated his position. At that time, few understood that Dr. Ford\’s controversial position, which interprets the Judgment in the 1st Angels Message as the 2nd Coming, was the unanimous view of the Pioneers. This is what Miller, Bates, and the Whites always taught. In fact, there was never a time in Battle Creek when anyone, including Andrews or Smith, ever claimed that the IJ was located in Rev 14: 7, as the church still teaches to this very day. But few knew these facts, which prove Traditional Adventism impossible, absurd, and very wrong. At Glacier View, Dr. Ford defended the original and genuine version of the Three Angels Messages. He was standing in full support of Ellen White\’s view of the Judgment and the Gospel, as well as Prophecy. But few knew it because the leaders had no idea that the White Estate had been hiding thousands of documents so that they could promote fabrication and fraud to generations of unsuspecting church members. The White Estate deceived the church about the Pioneers view of the Gospel, the Judgment, and hermeneutics. Had it not been for Dr. Ford, few would have realized the difference between truth and error, or that the Takoma Park leaders had gone corrupt and were not to be trusted. In hindsight, Dr. Ford is the most well known, talented, and courageous scholar that the modern SDA church has ever produced. He is a Gospel Reformer that in spite of persecution and slander has stood firm for the truth of the Three Angels Messages, including the Gospel Sabbath. Dr. Ford is a modern day Adventist Pioneer who fits the mould of a Paul or Luther. He can also be compared with men like William Miller or E. J.
Waggoner. Like all these religious reformers, he refused to be manipulated by tradition or fear, choosing instead to be true to the Word above all else.
Speaking as someone who has been researching Ellen White for almost 40 years, there is no doubt in my mind that Ellen White would have supported Dr. Ford at Glacier View. Just as she did with Waggoner. Nor is there any doubt that she would have condemned the dishonest and incompetent leaders that were supporting the many errors of Traditional Adventism. Glacier View was a catastrophe for the Advent Movement. Unless this sad chapter in SDA history is corrected and made right, the Denomination will continue to self-destruct. But all is not lost for the Advent Movement. Dr. Ford has pointed out the correct path. He is a paradigm shifter that has set the stage for the final Advent Message to be developed and proclaimed. His work has paved the way for the Advent Movement to return to the historic view of the 1st Angels Message, which correctly interprets the \”hour of his Judgment has come\” as only the Second Coming, -and never the IJ. Such an admission will represent a return to the genuine version of the Three Angels Messages. It will allow the Gospel to become the primary doctrine for the church, even as the Second Coming once again becomes a featured doctrine of the Advent Movement. In conclusion, Dr. Ford was correct to stand up and defend the original and genuine version of the Three Angels Message. In contrast, the leaders were very wrong to defend the many myths and errors that were being promoted by the White Estate and the Review. The church was even more wrong to later promote \”Pluralism,\” which is an obvious admission of doctrinal confusion. At some point, the Adventist Community must understand that Dr. Ford is owed an apology from those he has been trying to help all these years. More than that, he is owed the greatest of accolades for preserving the Fundamentals that define and empower the great Advent Movement. Dr. Ford is a true Seventh-day Adventist Christian. It has been my privilege and honour to know this great Scholar and Gospel preacher for more than 30 years. He is the father of Adventist Reform, and thus his influence will continue to be felt far into the future. I salute him! Warmest Regards, Tom Norris, for Adventist Reform

Ron & Lenore Los…
Dear Des
We wish you many blessings and many other birthdays. – Many more to proclaim God’s goodness and grace to needy souls around the world. We appreciate your passion and your zeal in teaching us about grace and mercy and salvation in such clear and concise ways. We also are grateful for the effort you have put into studying God’s word and learning from others – you are a great scholar and a good teacher and we have been taught well by listening to your interpretation of God’s messages to us.
We are also glad to call you our friend. May you have a blessed decade and may your words travel across the globe – God bless you and thank you for blessing us and others.
Kindest regards
Ron & Lenore Los

Kevin & Jeanette Dixon…
Congratulations, Des on reaching 80 years. During this time your life has been an open book and an example and inspiration to me individually, and to Jeanette and our family. I will always remember your classes in D&R, Life & Teachings of Jesus, Introduction to Theology, and Public Speaking. Remembered with appreciation too were your inspiring chapel talks & Sermons. Also valued very highly were the personal one-on-one ‘walk/run’ counselling sessions.
Your camp meeting Bible studies, seminars, forum discussions, radio ministry, articles, books, and writings in theology, health and lifestyle, have been transformational for the many lives that you have touched in your global ministry. The one thing that I appreciate above all else for my own ministry was your example in preaching and teaching a Christ-centred message always. We thank God for your continued ministry through GNU which has blessed us personally.
We wish you and Gill a life filled with the sunshine of God’s love as you continue to reside on the Sunshine Coast, and look forward to the continued blessings of you ministry during your golden years. Romans 8:28-39.
Kevin & Jeanette Dixon

Our Tribute to Des
Lyall & Gwen Sutcliffe
In my Christian experience, my doubts were running high
Something didn’t add, I wasn’t satisfied
‘Til the year of 1980 a great scholar overseas
I learned he had a problem, just the same as me.
I never ever questioned the 1844; my faith was in the leaders
‘Cause I reckoned they knew more
Than me who’d never studied enough to find the truth,
Then I heard about the trial over there in Glacier View.
From what I’ve read it was a set up to quieten this man’s voice
They took away his credentials so he had no other choice
Than to go preach all the louder to take the gospel through
So he formed the outreach ministry that we know as G.N.U.
I carried a heavy burden just as many do today
Until I heard the good news in what Des had to say
A great weight left my shoulders, at last I understood
That I didn’t need to be good to be saved
But I need to be saved to be good.
I know you are happy where you are
With all of God’s blessings that you receive
May this 80th year be a great year for you
And may you have many more joyful years in the future
And thank you so much for lifting our souls in the way you use God’s word.
Love, Lyall & Gwen Sutcliffe

Patty & Tony Robinson…
Dear Des
What a wonderful privilege it is for us to celebrate this milestone occasion with you. Thank God that this Ford is still grace-ing the lives of so many people – us especially.
Every morning at breakfast we select one of your vintage sermons and journey down the various bi-ways of the Gospel road. We eagerly look forward to the twice-monthly trips down to Mango Farm. It is our prayer that God will continue to bless you as much as you’ve blessed us.
We thank Him for your gifts shared from a heart of love. May our Mechanic continue the maintenance on this exceptional model D Ford
Happy birthday
Love from
Patty and Tony Robinson

Eric Magnussen…
Des Ford’s 80th birthday…
As I walked through the wilderness of this world I lighted on a certain place where was a den and laid me down in that place to sleep; and, as I slept, I dreamed a dream. I dreamed, and behold I saw a man of boyish complexion, clothed in short pants, with his face from his own house and books in his hands. He carried more books in his hands than any ordinary fellow could carry in a dray and, as I was soon to perceive, even more such put he into his head. Now, though I did not know it at the time, this was the earnest of things to come.
And behold, he came to a wicket-gate and desired earnestly to pass through but could not, knowing not that the way is barred to wastrels who lie abed until four of the clock, yea even five o’clock, in the morning. Upon hearing that these were the evil intrigues of one Beelzebub, he vowed solemnly never to return unto such slovenly habits, and did firmly purpose in his mind to reach the point where he would arise slightly before lying down, should such be possible.
At last there came a grave person to the gate, who on hearing what the smooth complexioned, short-pantsed man desired, let him in, strictly enjoining him to walk only when he could not run. Therefore did he run through the gate, tarrying only to pick up 3 pounds of beans, the which alone give sustenance to men who durst not sleep and walk ever swiftly. It came not unto his ken that those who puffed beside him, never finding breath enough to say a word unto him, were more in want of sustenance than he was.
Now I saw in my dream that the highway up which he was to go was fenced in on either side with a wall and that wall was called Salvation. Up this way did the burdened person run, not without great difficulty, because of the load on his back. It happened that upon that place stood a cross and there, when he came up with it, his burden loosed from off his shoulders and fell from his back and began to tumble and he saw it no more. And ever after did he exclaim about it, without ceasing, some saying that he never spoke but of that one thing. And I believe it is true. And from then on saw I him glad and lightsome, even to the making of jokes. Not always very good jokes, but jokes.
And although I saw his burden no more I saw also many who desired earnestly to put other loads upon him or manufacture stumbling blocks to put in his way. Some there were who wished to constrain him to listen to their alternative theories of how, with effort, the wall might be climbed, the height attained being in direct proportion to the effort. And on one such day, being compelled to give attention to them, did he listen attentively, writing down the true import of their other gospels in microscopic characters such that none but he could read. But of the eyestrain that such handwriting did cause his family and friends did he not seem to have comprehension.
But they continued to make fast at him, throwing darts as thick as hail. The sore combat lasted above a day but he took courage and resisted manfully. And the day came to an end before his tormentors came to their end whereupon, obedient to the commandment to return on the morrow, he returned, riding on a train with a second-class ticket only because there was no third. I had seen already in my dream how strict economy did bring the purchase of books into possibility such that the tightly filled bookshelves in his house extend even to the ceiling. And I saw also that spending on personal pleasure and mere comfort was never advanced above spending for some other person’s need.
And there was a certain Great-heart, who desired that he should reply to the fierce accusations of heresy. And he did so, moving with such expedition that even Apollyon and the dreadfullest of his friends were exhausted, they never having accepted the invitation to come for a walk with him. Else they had also found themselves constrained to run breathless, this being the secret of mental fitness. Thus will his friends ever witness.
And I saw him make reply to their charges, his words speedy as beams of light, reminding his attackers that they had not recalled the previous verse, or the obvious context, or the comments of she that wrote in red books, which, to their amazement, he did quote from his head. And as he spoke, he did throw the books, of which he had made supply in an ancient suitcase, on the table, open to the pages of which they spoke, until they were so discomfited that they glowered and did gnash their teeth, their countenances being flushed with anger.
And in my dream I saw also that his book-throwing zeal did reflect a desire to bring his tormentors to see their folly whereas their zeal reflected less worthy motives. And, observing such, and moved with the desire for him to see it also, did one of his fellows kick him under the table.
And many such things did I see. His loyalty to his friends and his loyalty to that virtue we call truth, that loyalty being disclosed by a willingness to admit error when it is disclosed, even when it is uncomfortable to do so. And in my dream I saw how he did always move more swiftly to forgive than to condemn and, in the counsels of the College, did always incline to the opinion that persons arraigned for their misdeeds were ‘good at heart’ even when there was manifest evidence to the contrary. And in my dream I dreamt that, should he happen to hear this account, peradventure he would not recognise these virtues, not being given to continual reflection on his personal goodness, which is why there is so much of it for his fellows to reflect on.
And it did come to my mind, quietly at night, that once to every man and nation comes the moment to decide, in the strife of truth with falsehood, for the good or evil side. And my friend, for whom the verdicts at those moments were not always just, I did see in my dream holding his head high and keeping his honour unsullied……..He of books and beans, Hudson Taylor and the apotelesmatic principle, of the abomination of desolation and Luther’s ‘drunken peasant’, acquainted with tragedy as well as the falseness of earthbound adulation, with whom I have laboured breathless up many a rough track, a man who never forgets his friends, who treats human need as a priority ahead of personal comfort, and has helped so many of his hearers to be better persons.
And I saw in my dream that it was not a dream.

Lorraine Ferris…
Dear Des
In 1962 I arrived at Avondale College, thinking study would be a breeze after graduating from Teachers’ College and teaching 3 years in State schools. Then I was introduced to Theology and Daniel & Revelation classes. What a challenge! I remember sitting on the bank of Dora Creek swatting for an exam, having to memorise 96 Bible texts & pages of Ellen White. That was easy compared with the assignments you gave us! I think those classes were the best and most daunting times in my academic career.
Des, in those times you made the Gospel come alive, but I don’t think I really thought about it as deeply as 1980 when the theology crisis was at its height. Kevin and I listened to your tape on the IJ and we just shook our heads and said “Des, you’ve gone too far this time!” When we got down and really studied, particularly Hebrews 9 we were never the same after that. I thank God for your bravery in proclaiming to Adventists in particular, the freedom of the Gospel and the joy of the full assurance of salvation.
We just feel so blessed, that when time allows we are able to make the journey to Mango Hill and hear the wonderful words of life presented in so many interesting and unique ways – mainly with stories from the Bible.
Thank you so much for being an incurable bibliophile and then passing on all that knowledge to us lesser mortals. God has used you mightily in His service; whilst we feel embarrassed and disappointed that the church has relegated you to a little corner, that corner has become such a strong beacon throughout the world – this Ford not only runs, it shines!
May God continue to bless you in the next decade with good health and ever-increasing insights into His Word. (This of course is not only for you, but a selfish one for all of us to benefit there-from!)
With Christian love
Lorraine Ferris
Winsome Abbott…
Dr Ford,
Good memories of you from Avondale days.
Dr Winsome Abbott

Alec Gazsik…
“The reality which was offered him differed too terribly from the ideal of his dreams.” (Somerset Maugham “Of Human Bondage.”)
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, …” (Paul Romans 8:1)
Happy Birthday Dr. Ford and thank you for sharing with me \”the good, glad and merry tidings that makes a man\’s heart to sing and his feet to dance.\” One day soon may we meet and dance merrily in God’s kingdom made new.
Alec Gazsik
Avondale College 1966-1969

Roy, Connie, and Sarah Gane…
Dear Des,
HAPPY 80TH BIRTHDAY! That is quite an achievement! I hope you have had a fabulous celebration with family and friends. Connie, Sarah, and I would have loved to be able to come for the festivities. Our prayers continue to be with you. May the Lord bless and keep you, with your eyes clear and your natural force unabated like Moses.
Love,
Roy, Connie, and Sarah Gane

Don & Helen Booth…
Happy Birthday to you Des. A great mile stone and unfortunately we will be in Melbourne with Sandra and all her kids and husband and also Don will be at the tennis. We have been talking about catching up with you for some time so hopefully we can still do that in the near future. Best wishes again from our four kids and our twelve grandkids.
Love to all,
Don and Helen Booth

Greig Lipman…
What can I say: If it wasn’t for the work of GNU and the encouraging messages from Des especially I shudder to think where we would be today. Des is the best Pastor We have ever had.
Kind Regards,
Greig Lipman

Rob & Ruth Harris…
Dear Dr Ford,
More than 52 years ago at a Lismore camp, a couple of schoolboys (Don Roy and I) sought the help of a young Pr Ford with a troubling Bible text; and how gracious you were in dealing with us. And about the same time I recall how Pastors Carl Raphael (my next-door neighbour) and Bob Trood teased you about “Dr Ford’s Pills” when you planned for advanced study toward a doctorate.
The greatest blessing has been through the years sitting at your feet as the Holy Spirit has used you mightily for His kingdom.
Happy birthday, thou true Prophet of God!
Ruth & Rob Harris

Zb Schubert…
Des,
The clearest revelation of God, his theophany, came to Daniel after he was 80. I pray the same for you.
Zb Zyfryd Schubert

Chip Hedges…
Dear Des,
I’m very happy to honour you on this occasion. I value your passion and enthusiasm for life. You have a good sense of humour. You’ve always been a searcher.
When I look back over the years I think I’ve been on a different journey to you. I guess I don’t care much for theology. But I will always respect your journey and acknowledge your insights have been invaluable to many people.
I wish you many happy years in the future. And fun in the meantime.
Chip Hedges

Peter Bruce…
Des has all the positive attributes of George M?ller of Bristol. It has been my privilege to be one of his orphans for 35 years. Thank you Des for focussing on the Gospel and providing the spiritual food.
Peter Bruce

Barbara Bishop…
Happy birthday Des, Thank you for the inspiring lessons over the past few years which has made reading the Bible a real pleasure. God has blessed you and all of us who have shared a part of your life.
Its nice to know that I will know you for a long long time. You enriched my life as a Christian and I thank you so much for all the hours you have studied and prepared lessons for those who love the Lord. May our Lord continue to bless you and keep you safe in His care. Your sister in Christ Jesus
Barbara Ann Bishop

Tammy Brinsmead…
Des is the epitome of a gentleman. A man of exceptional intelligence, wisdom and learning, he exhibits the utmost patience and grace when approached by those with a less developed mind. He teaches with simplicity and passion. It is impossible to encounter his words without challenging one’s personal development and one’s soul.
I first understood the gospel, and specifically the nature of grace, while listening to Des at a lecture north of Brisbane. He was describing the imagery of the cross, and noted that Christ had `not a thread of clothing on Him`, like I have `not a thread of righteousness on me`. Until then, I had unconsciously assumed that I achieve some degree of purity and perfection, and Christ `finishes the job`. Listening to Des, I realized Christ provides 100% of the righteousness, and any good in me is a response to the glory of that gift. My experience in Christianity has never been the same.
Des’ words, in the written and spoken form, gave me permission to question my church’s beliefs, and permission to find fallibility. At the same time, he taught me to love that church, and extend to it the grace which Christ extends to me. He facilitated my embrace of the family of God at large, and liberated my living witness to those who are yet to know our God. At times when I was hurting, he restored my friendship with God, through his depiction of suffering and its relationship to the gospel.
Through all of this, though, I discovered that my eyes were never pointed to Des the man, but to his God. Indeed, I found him a brother on a common journey, and a mentor. I consider it a privilege to have shared a place and time in history with him. If I am even a third the man he is by the end of my life, I shall have truly lived.
Tammy Brinsmead

Patricia Thompson…
Dear Des,
Whenever we meet I look forward to the opportunity to listen and delve more deeply into the study of the Bible as you take us through chapters we may or may not be familiar with, giving us a more complete knowledge and understanding of God\’s word. We feel so grateful for your help.
Wishing you a very Happy 80th Birthday.
With love,
Patricia Thompson

André van Rensburg…
Happy Birthday Dr Des Ford,
Wishing you love, joy and peace for your birthday and beyond.
Thank you for introducing me to Jesus and his wonderful grace. I recall with fond memory my days at Avondale listening to you sharing the gospel. I discovered an oasis in a barren land, and have continued to drink from the fountain of life. Your gracious spirit over the years in spite of adversity I have greatly admired.
As we all grow older I have found Paul’s admonition of great personal comfort and strength. Now abide faith, hope and love.
May God bless you and Gill as you celebrate the gift of life. What we do in this life echoes for eternity, thank you!
André van Rensburg
(One of your students at Avondale 1974 – 1976)

Duncan & Caroline…
Dearest Des,
Thank you so much for being such an inspiration to us both. We feel so very blessed to get to hear you speak every fortnight and to be able to ask you questions and your thoughts on so many topics. We are also honoured to be able to call you and Gill our friends.
Thank you so much for the insight and understanding of the Bible and it\’s context, complexity and beauty you\’ve given (and continue to give) us and for helping us to fall more in love with Jesus and His word every day. You have given us more than than you could ever know and changed our lives so much for the better.
So thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We wish you a very Happy 80th Birthday, a fantastic year to come and many more birthdays ahead. God bless.
With lots of love and very best wishes for today and always,
Duncan and Caroline

Shirley & Bill Glover…
Des,
Thank you for your humble recognition and personal interest in all who seek to honour and serve our Lord Jesus, and for helping us over Theological stumbling blocks on the journey; we honour your dedication to the task despite determined opposition from some who had opposing views.
Shirley and Bill Glover

Wedell Rosevear…
Message to Des:
From a young age you were always \”Uncle Des and Auntie Gwen\”….. I think that is my fondest way of seeing you.
I remember riding in the side car of your motor bike and your kindness in delivering food parcels to my poor student family. I treasure growing up being part of your extended family and sharing with your children the sense of wonderment about life. You have been gracious and accepting of me and I thank you that the Love you know about from God extends to your love of me.
You always said \”Die Young at an Old Age\” and it looks like you practice what you preach. Well done.
Love, Wendell.
Dr. Wendell Rosevear O.A.M. M.B.,B.S. DipRACOG. FRACGP. J.P.(Qual.)

Nicola Linbourn & Stephen Marris…
Desmond
Have a wonderful celebration. Enjoy the day. We will think of you.
We would like to choose this time to thank you so much for the kindness you showed to Nan. You made her last years happy ones, making her so welcome in your home and we are very grateful to you.
Nicola Linbourn & Stephen Marris

Bob & Wendy Brinsmead…
Dear Des,
We are both forever grateful that you have shown us so clearly and simply the true meaning of the Gospel. It has made a tremendous difference in our assurance of salvation and our Christian witness to others.
We rejoice in the finished work of our saviour at Calvary and look forward to eternity with him and the saints of all ages.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your untiring ministry in bringing this message to all who are willing to listen even after your have well exceeded the biblically allotted span of “three score years and ten”.
God bless you as you soldier on for him until He calls you home. Well you can say like Paul the apostle “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2Tim. 4: 7-8
Bob & Wendy Brinsmead

Dale Galusha…
Dear Des,
Wow—congratulations on this milestone—not only reaching 80 years, but doing it with grace, charm and most importantly with Christ-likeness. You are an inspiration and a role model of true Christianity. Thank you for being such an example.
May God grant you many more years. Happy birthday!
Dale Galusha

Trevor Lloyd…
Valued memories of 45 Years.
C.S.Lewis had some ideas on what constituted true friendship––something like the bringing together of those who seem to have some kind of inkling of what another was most of all born desiring––in the \”surprised by joy\” style, if I recall it correctly. I would add something further to the working definition––or maybe it is not an addition but, rather, a note on what may be subsumed within the above. I have in mind the sense that there is fellow feeling regarding what is most valued in life and what is worth striving for with all of one\’s heart and soul.
I have learnt that such a bond is not realised frequently in the short lives that we live. If once, we are much blessed. If two or three times, we are conspicuously wealthy. It commenced to dawn newly upon me forty-five years ago this very month. It happened at an unpretentious tertiary education institution nestled on the banks of a tidal inlet attached to Lake Macquarie. It might not have been the hub of the Australian academic community generally; however, many of us teaching there were convinced that it might as well be regarded as the nerve centre of the Adventist community in the South Pacific, if not the world. And, to prove it, we could boast, as meekly as possible under the compelling circumstances, a brilliant lecturing staff––headed in theology and science, especially, by the greats of earth––and a bunch of gifted students who took it all marvelously seriously and destined to go on to serve the cause of God valiantly.
So it was, in February, 1964, that I was making my way into Avondale College library. Coming towards me was the aforesaid chairman of the Department of Theology with a small green-bound book in his extended right hand. Greeting me by name, he said in his characteristic calmly energetic way: \”Would you have a look at it. I\’d be interested to know what you think of it.\” Then, with a smile and a wave he left by the library door. It was apparent that he had taken the book out in his own name and that he intended to pass it to me at the earliest opportunity––all thoroughly welcoming in one\’s first week of teaching in that august place.
There it was in my hand: Boulevards of Paradise––and the name \”F W Boreham\” was displayed on the spine. So commenced the discovery of shared interests and values between Desmond Ford and myself––a treasured pilgrimage that continued to my rich blessing over the following decades.
There is more that could be said regarding that February of forty-five years ago. Des invited me \”out\” to lunch one weekday––he was \”batching\” at the time and I was then single and \”batched\” all of the time. He chose both venue and menu and we set out striding energetically up College Drive and out along Martinsville Road towards One-Tree Hill. A third of the way up the hill, we chose a pleasant spot overlooking Cooranbong and the \”table was spread in the wilderness.\” Such a welcome repast––I shall recall it for as long as I can masticate, ruminate and cogitate! We started with a can of large, prime quality prunes, proceeded to a generous provision of freshly baked whole-meal gems and finished with some genuine, Australian-grown, Granny Smith apples, peeled on the spot. One could go for forty days and forty nights on the strength of it.
After lunch, we continued our way up One-Tree Hill and my sadly neglected prior education along theological lines took some eager steps forward. As I recall it, soteriology and inspiration were foremost topics dealt with. When, as was inevitable, I strayed from the path of sound doctrine into some logically indefensible position (not heresy, I daresay), I was gently guided towards an alternative view. For example, from that day, I have taken all care rightly to distinguish between inspiration and illumination––and the latter was in plentiful supply on that unforgettable walk.
Such was the entrance hall to an extended edifice of spiritual fellowship and intellectual adventure. What was to come lived up to the engaging introduction.
On this eightieth birthday occasion, there is much for which we can give thanks to God. Doubtless, there will be Avondale students of the sixties and seventies who will pay tribute to Desmond\’s vastly important influence for good in their lives. I saw for myself daily such an effect. The College administration and faculty were similarly blessed. Foremost, there was a doctrinal and spiritual boon. Never far away was the importance of diet and exercise.
From the College nerve centre, there were sweeping positive influences to the Church community near and far. What shall we say to sum up those two eventful and portentous decades? Under the leading and blessing of God, the mouths of [doctrinally devious] lions were shut; the fury of [perfectionistic] flames was quenched; and upright stalwarts for the truth were given an escape from the edge of the [legalistic] sword.
And, into the closing decades of the century, others have continued to join in the proclamation and there have been set in motion waves of joyful news of a declaration by God that in Jesus all mankind have been declared righteous if they will reach out and accept it into their surrendered lives. Those waves have flowed to countless corners of the Adventist fellowship world-wide and to large numbers beyond.
For all of these reasons, and many more unstated here, I give thanks to God for the gifts that have been given and used so unstintingly in the service of others during eight exciting decades. I thank you, Des, for the incalculable blessings that you have brought into my own life and pray that you may be given many years more in extended service and to see the gospel cause triumph in the earth.
Your brother in the finest of all callings.
Trevor

Mark & Marilyn Brinsmead…
Dear Des,
We thank God for your personal convictions, your perseverance in the face of opposition, and the spirit of friendship you extend to everyone, regardless of their beliefs. Above all we are truly grateful for your preaching of the gospel which has invigorated our personal faith.
Mark & Marilyn Brinsmead

Jean Gersbach…
Dear Dr Ford
I am delighted to be able to contribute my best wishes on your 80th birthday. May God continue to bless you and Gill and your ministry that continues to lift up Jesus.
God has used you to present the Gospel with clarity – I recall the moment listening to one of your tapes, when it dawned on me that my acceptance by God was not dependent on my being good enough. What a moment that was! I thank you for allowing God to use you and for using your life and talents to share the Good News.
In particular your contribution at my husband Lance’s funeral meant so much. Lance had told me often that he saw you as a mentor and he valued that immensely. Thank you too Dr Ford for your encouraging correspondence in the months following his death, for instilling hope in the future and for always reminding me of Gods sovereignty and great love. I know that Lance will thank you when we meet him in heaven.
Words are inadequate… please accept my heartfelt thanks. May God richly bless you.
In Christian Love ,
Jean Gersbach

Lee Cameron…
Dear Dr Ford,
I attended your classes at Avondale College back in 1976 for New Testament I. These classes opened my eyes to the gospel that you so clearly and earnestly shared with us. I respect you as a great teacher and interpreter of the Word in a clear and meaningful way.
I have had on occasions sat in some of your meetings since that time and the memories come floating back and the renewing of the gospel story you so passionately believe in and share have never waned. It has been and honour to know you and more of an honour to have sat in your class to hear this wonderful story of redemption.
The past may not have been easy for you I am sure when dealing with well intentioned administrators but you have shown that we can rise above other people’s prejudices and short sightedness and still spread the good news, possibly with more effectiveness.
I honour you, your life and your teaching.
Kind Regards,
Lee Cameron

Doug & May Martin…
Octogenarian extroardinaire, we welcome you to another level of maturity.
Des,your dedication to the Lord and His gospel has always encouraged me; your commitment to truth and the God of truth has inspired me; your research has both baffled and eventually enlightened me; your books and articles have often created a desire for a “bovine bible” so that I may rest and chew them over and over again, for the sweetness and nutrients seldom reach their full enjoyment at first reading. You have quoted and will be quoted until the Lord of glory returns.
Memory—I wish I had yours! I recall your breakfasts:- I had never had rock melon for breakfast before that first visit. Fresh, simple, healthful, enjoyable, and left no regrets. Of-course, there was more than rock melon to balance our intake, but that stands out. And there was always more.
“This Ford still Runs”! More correctly, we do the running to keep up. You were renowned for walks to relax and invigorate the mind. Well, you walked and we jogged along beside you and mostly listened and breathed deeply. But I recall that at Tambourine we stopped and chatted, how unlike our younger days.
You were a vital part of the Seminary Extension Seminar of 1972. Apocalyptic visions took on a new aspect in those days. The great controversy was not confined to heavenly places and was destined to arouse opposition as new enlightenment was promoted. And those who said they believed in Ellen White ignored her statements that “we are not to take the position that there is no more truth to be revealed, and that all our expositions of Scripture are without error.”
Your expositions of Romans at the Workers meetings at the Basin Camp in Victoria in c.1976 were inspirational. There followed many baptisms into Christ, some of which experienced disappointment with a later church return to traditional emphases. Yet many still remember the truths presented and share where they can.
You proclaimed with vitality, “My Grace Is Sufficient For You” at the Nunawading Camp in the mid seventies. The truth has remained true for so many of us ever since.
Thank you so much for proclaiming the truth, which is often “on the scaffold”, but always life-giving. The Lord has enriched so many lives through your teaching and preaching and others, like my wife, May, and our children have been blessed through listening to recordings. I have been criticised as a Fordite, and May has been praised as a lovely Christian, but much of her beauty had its origin in the gospel truth received and renewed through your recorded messages. I say, “She is more Fordian than I am”—she listens so much.
For your loyalty to your convictions — often interpreted as disloyalty to the
church;
For your kindness expressed to those who opposed or misunderstood you;
For your lucid answers to biblical questions that satisfied enquiring minds;
For ties of friendship which, in Christ, never will be broken;
For your willingness to suffer rather than compromise your integrity;
For your gracious witness to those who tried to find fault, for you “reviled not
again”;
For your readiness to answer emails when so many other enquiries
demanded your time;
For these and more we honour you and pray for continued blessings—of
health, of protection, of opportunities to share, of enjoyment with family and friends.
We praise God for His faithfulness, wisdom, love and grace ministered to so many through your life. We are honoured to be your friends,
Doug and May Martin.

Jim Beyers…
It’s very easy for me to remember when I first met you, Des. It was on my 25th birthday, March 15 1957.
It was expected of students back then to spend a week each year on appeal for Missions. My wife, three others plus myself volunteered to go to Inverell where we stayed with you and Gwen and had some very interesting discussions. You were the first minister of any denomination to say “Just call me Des.” After my ordination I did likewise, and had several ministers rebuke me for being familiar with the laity.
One memorable experience Ws a bush walk with you and Bob Brinsmead in 1958. Bob would ask “What do you think about Hebrews 9:12? By the time I found the verse in my pocket Testament, you and Bob would have moved on to another subject.
For me. Des, you have been an inspiration for more than 52 years. I’m looking forward to a very satisfying friendship for all eternity.
Jim Beyers

John & Joan Hughson…
Our dear Des,
What a joy for John and me to send you greetings on your 80th birthday. We greatly cherish the photo taken of the three of us in January 06 and keep it in a prominent place in our study. John’s dream to have you share your passion for the Gospel at the Spiritual Renaissance Retreat will always be a highlighted and underlined memory in our hearts.
Your life and ministry have continually demonstrated a tenacious centeredness in Christ. This focus brings new meaning to God’s description that His word, “shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it,” Isaiah 55:11.
Bless you, Des, ministry can certainly bring its challenges! Then again, that should not be unexpected. A quote bears poignancy to this fact:
The spiritual world…cannot be made suburban. It is always frontier, and if we would live in it, we must accept and rejoice that it remains untamed. (Howard R. Macy)
May you continue to experience the smiling nod of God and take pleasure as you walk toward His warm embrace.
Lovingly,
John & Joan Hughson

Ross & Angela Howard…
Dear Des
Eighty years is cause to celebrate of itself but, in your case, cause also to celebrate decades of achievement under the calling and blessing of God. Thank you for your wonderful ministry in bringing the gospel to us so many years ago, and for continuing to refresh us with your preaching, teaching and demonstration of God’s love and grace.
We’re sorry that we can’t be attending the celebrations on Sunday, but we wish you God’s blessings on the day and for many years to come. May He continue to bless you and keep you, and to cause His face to shine upon you.
Love and best wishes,
Ross and Angela Howard

Sue Tinworth…
Dear Des
I am grateful to those who have organised this opportunity to tell you and proclaim publicly our appreciation for you.
You impacted my life profoundly from the early 1970’s when I attending Stanborough Park in Britain. The fullest impact was on a day – about a year later – after we’d returned to Australia You were taking the Sabbath service in the Opal Room at Wahroonga Church , in Sydney . This was the day I first understood and received the gospel of Jesus Christ. My world changed from black and white to colour! I had walked with Jesus all my life and been intentionally committed to Him since I was 11 years old, but I had not understood the completeness of His loving provision by grace until that moment.
In later years, when people asked me when I was baptized in the Holy Spirit, I thought I could not define a specific moment until it dawned on me – that is what opened on that memorable day with you. From that time I began moving in the gifts of the Spirit of God. His first gift that manifest was words of knowledge for evangelism. The Spirit would tell me what to say to open immediate encounter with people to whom I could witness about Jesus on my way to school. I have been in ministry all my life but I have been given the grace to serve in full time ministry since mid 1996.
God has blessed me with the enormous privilege of coordinating Partners in Prayer Australia and working as Associate Coordinator beside Rob Isaachsen of Transforming Melbourne. In line with Jesus final prayer, we build communication and relationships within the Body of Christ, connecting leaders of denominations, theological colleges, and Christian ministries, pastors and all people with the invitation to pray and work together for God’s will to be done. We call the Church to hear our Father’s compassion for the lost and encouraging them to undertake intentional discipleship and collaborative mission in their local areas or Greater Melbourne. I am so aware that our Lord waits on us to be obedient to His great commission so He can finish His work in us and in the earth and establish His kingdom.
One of my deepest joys is working with Indigenous leaders in our nation and last weekend Richard Young, Head of the Victorian Aboriginal Sports Association, was proclaiming in a private conversation, the joy of the new covenant in Jesus. He has a spiritual gift of teaching and clearly articulated that it will be God’s grace that will bring a relief from the burden, guilt and condemnation carried by his people. Although I did not yet know of this upcoming celebration of your gifts to us, I thought of you straight away! We have some correction to bring to the message of the early missions. It is hard for Aborigines to understand revisions in what they have been told because their cultural tradition relies on faithful verbal rendition of the spiritual stories
and so they are very committed to the accounts they first receive. I pray that we are all sensitive to the ongoing leading of God’s Spirit.
I release to our Father the wrong done against you by the Seventh Day Adventist Church . It has not yet been made right and a price was paid by the church for this. But His recompense to you has been evident and eventually Jesus’ message reached the church anyway. God finds His way to bring to us again and again His merciful invitations!
Praise God – the light of Jesus Christ shines in this world through many who really know Him because of you!
May our Father continue to bless you and your descendents, Des.
In the joy of our Lord
Sue Tinworth

George & Stephanie Muirhead…
Congratulations Des on reaching 80. From your state of health it looks like you have hopefully a good many years ahead. Both Stephanie and I have greatly appreciated and been encouraged over many years by your ministry with its message of compassion and understanding of the human condition and its strong gospel message. This has provided hope in times of our greatest despair. We have also been pleased to acknowledge the positive influence you have had upon all of our family throughout the years.
However, there is a downside to having listened to your inspirational preaching- that it is difficult for other preachers to inspire the same response. It is a great gift which you have used tirelessly in God’s service.
We would have liked very much to have been able to attend this celebration, however due to prior business commitments were unable to get there. We however celebrate this milestone and will be thinking of you today.
Fondest regards
George and Stephanie

Harry Allen…
Dear Dr. Ford:
When God gives us life, He does not promise it will be long. Thus, when it is, we must wonder at His grace, His goodness, His ineffable wisdom, and His love. We must do this, because life, like God’s only greater gift, salvation, is given freely, by means we barely comprehend, let alone could order. We merely accept it, because there is nothing that we could do to earn it.
If I was an even more selfish and self-centered person than sin has made me, however, I would urge that you were granted long life, Dr. Ford, so that in November 2007, I could meet you and Gil at your home, and ask you many of the questions that had been burning in my head and heart, probably since the first time I ever saw or heard of you.
I happen to remember vividly when that was, by the way: I was 16, looking through an issue of Newsweek, and there you were, in a photo. I was just amazed that there was something about Seventh-day Adventists in a non-church magazine, but the piece was more startling than that. The article told about how you’d said something outrageous about our church’s beliefs, and that they’d had to get rid of you. At least, that’s how my dad gently summarized it for me. He told me that the leaders of our denomination had tried and tried to reason with you, but, in the end, they’d had to let you go.
It’s a very long walk between that moment, Dr. Ford, and the one where, 11,000 miles from my home, I was sitting in your kitchen with you and Gil, asking merely a few of the questions which had burned in my heart for so long. I listened, as you summed up mere slivers of your wisdom, to address my infantile queries.
It’s a long walk between that moment, Dr. Ford, and the one where I opened the copy of For the Sake of the Gospel Gil had been kind enough to send me, only to see…oh, my goodness…that you’d dedicated the book to me? WHAT? I was, and remain, so utterly and completely floored by that, Dr. Ford. I so little understand it. It was a gesture so generous and, again, so undeserved. I stared at that volume so long, not comprehending it. I still don’t. I found it hard to believe that, in my trip to your home, I had done anything other than take up your time. (In fact, I was silent so long, Gil finally had to e-mail me and ask if I’d seen it. I’d not said anything until now because I could not think of a big enough way to say how completely blown away I was by this honor. I finally did so, here because, I mean, it was just getting embarrassing.)
But most of all, Dr. Ford, it’s a long walk between that moment with my dad, back in 1980, and one my wife and I shared, just this past Saturday evening. We were riding the bus home, and talking about that day’s “energetic” discussion of the Adult Sabbath School lesson, led, to a fair extent, I’ll admit, by my questions about the year-day principle, the identity of the remnant, and the term “spirit of prophecy.” At some point, Zakiya asked about whether I’d hold animosity against people in our local church who’d disagreed with my positions. “I’ll quote Dr. Ford, here,” I said in response. “’How can I be angry at
people who don’t have the time to study?’” Which brings me back to the question of long life. I believe that you have lived so long, Dr. Ford, because God knows that there are young men and women still to be inspired by your unwavering commitment to truth; your adamant dedication to study; and your firm unwillingness to strike back at those whom would do you ill.
But most of all, Des, there are many yet to be empowered by the example of your enduring reliance on the transformative power of the Gospel, and on your unbroken conviction that Jesus Christ is not only sufficient, but exorbitant, inordinate, and immoderate. That He is All and All…and All. To that end, then, and to you, I can say no less than Daniel did, when, in the presence of the King, he, affirming the monarch’s greatness, blessed him with these words:
“Live forever.”
Happy 80th Birthday.
Sincerely,
Harry Allen

Ross & Althea Ecclestone…
It seems only yesterday that we sat in the Big Tent at Welshpool about to hear for the first time the preaching of Dr. Ford. With little enthusiasm we undertook the challenge of yet another hour, or so, on the straight wooden benches with sawdust under our feet. Little did we know this would be a pivotal experience in our lives. For the first time we caught a glimpse of why the gospel was ‘good news’.
We attended church every Saturday, paid our tithe faithfully, involved ourselves in ‘missions’. My colleagues at the Bunbury High School noticed that I didn’t swear or drink alcohol—but the Cross was just another doctrine, albeit an important one, in the neatly packaged body of ‘truth’ that identified us as Seventh-day Adventists. On that evening you gave us HOPE—hope based on the imputation of Christ’s performance to our account. Perhaps it was because of that night that Romans 3:27 became our favourite verse in Scripture: “The whole matter is now on a different plane—believing instead of achieving.” (Phillips)
Up until this time our whole experience in spiritual matters centred on law, accruing a body of knowledge, behavioural achievement, and judgment to come. We could never quite grasp why this was purportedly ‘good news’ that would make a grown man jump for joy! Nevertheless, it didn’t take long as we returned to our home in Bunbury and then Lilydale for the light you ignited to be quenched by the prevailing views of traditional Adventism. The ‘good news’ was confined to forgiveness of the past and the promise of ‘power’ to live victoriously in the future. The all sufficiency of Christ’s life and sacrifice was all but lost.
That is, until the events of the 1970’s caused us to focus again on its centrality. Your clear thinking, dynamic preaching and consistent Christian life played a large part in our journey to understand the Gospel. For that, Des, we thank you.
Your ministry and life has touched us at a number of critical times. There are a number of lessons you have helped us glean from life. Let us summarise:
• When leaders let you down; don’t throw out the baby with the dishwater.
• Truth is a growing dynamic thing; it cannot be contained in neatly sealed little bottles.
• There is a time in everyone’s experience to stand up and be counted; even if it means surrendering cherished plans—particularly is this true of academic honesty.
• Graciousness in the face of deceit and unfairness pays dividends.
• Hope is the only antidote to personal tragedy.

For these lessons, Des, we thank you. Above all we thank you for helping us to discover the fantastic surety we have because the perfect performance of Jesus is freely credited to our account.
Happy 80th birthday and may there be many more!
With Christian love and best wishes and may God continue to bless your ministry.
Ross and Althea Ecclestone

Mary & Arnold Reye…
Dear Des,
Mary and I join your many friends in wishing you a very happy 80th birthday. In cricketing terms, you have enjoyed a good innings, but may it continue to be ‘not out’ when our blessed Lord returns. There are three things in particular we have appreciated and admired in you.
First, you have demonstrated something that is not particularly common among academics, namely, a steadfastness to truth as you have discovered it. It is not easy to challenge the thinking of ‘the establishment’, particularly when it involves one’s livelihood. That you were prepared to sacrifice the security of your denominational job in order to retain your intellectual integrity has been an inspiration and also a rebuke to many of us. Thank you Des, for that quiet but consistent witness.
Second, we have greatly valued your consistent preaching on the true gospel. From when we first heard you preach on the camp meeting circuit in Western Australia in the early 1960s, you have maintained your focus on what God has done for us as the root of our salvation. The assurance this provides is joy to the soul. In an Adventist milieu in which grace and works are confusedly mixed like oil and water, it has been reassuring to have the gospel presented and explained—both in your preaching and in your writing—in clear and unequivocal terms. Des, we are in your debt for this gift.
Third, your life of graciousness has been a lesson on how to handle those who act poorly towards us. While your treatment at the hands of church administrators has been far from charitable, nevertheless your restraint in not attacking either their competence or their integrity or their motives is a worthy example of ‘turning the other cheek’. Christ’s injunction, however, was intended as a moral rebuke to those who might respond ethically! Des, we are grateful that you have demonstrated Christian charity so profoundly.
Paul declared that “none of us lives to himself alone.” Blaise Pascal astutely recorded that “The least movement is of importance to all nature. The entire ocean is affected by a pebble.” Lord Alfred Tennyson, on the other hand, observed that “I am a part of all that I have met.” What we are trying to say, Des, is that those intersection points where yours and our lives have met over the years have been influential in making us the persons we are today. Thank you most sincerely for sharing yourself with us.
Mary and Arnold Reye,
Brisbane

Milton Hook…
It is about 1962 at Avondale and you are speaking to a Ministerial League meeting. “No self-respecting weevil will touch white bread,” you announce with a poker-face.
You go on to promote much that is free —- sunshine and water from the heavens, fresh air, appropriate physical exercise and adequate rest.
Your own example, with its balance between mental and physical exertion, is renowned. We are inspired to imitate you. In some respects we follow but you eclipse us with your prolonged and determined efforts.
Now, with eighty years behind you and the promise of at least another twenty, your longevity can also be attributed to the TLC of two fine wives and God’s free grace. (The wives were one at a time, of course, and the grace was all the time).
Belgian chocolates, the Aussie meat pie and German ale have nothing to do with your long years. These and, yes, even white bread, you shun.
Some individuals might think your days are humdrum, beginning with a duck’s breakfast —- a drink of water and a run around —- and then basking in the sun. We all know that is mere rumour. In reality, we are confident your days are still full of vitality and interest, even the meals.
Des, there is the expectation of another two decades. That calculates to another 20 new books, plus about 200 articles and 500 sermons. No pressure, mind you!!
Milton Hook

Norma & Barry Crabtree…
It would be an experience of great joy for us to attend the 80th birthday party for Des. The ministry of Des and Gill, particularly since 1980, has been amazing. We have admired the fact that both have been gentle with those who have been so unchristian to them. Others may have reviled their betrayers for their injustices but Des has refrained from this. His largess of heart has been an inspiration to so many of us. Des has been loyal to the church in spite of what its leaders have done to him. We continue to pray that the current leader’s will yet display the courage to apologize to Des and make reparation for the hurt and damage that has been done to him.
Barry & Norma Crabtree

Robert & Connie Porter…
Congratulations, Doctor, Pastor, Teacher, Mentor, Brother Desmond Ford.
The Good News is that in spite of the V.W. Combe blowing up an engine in 1962 the Ford still runs!
Des we want you to know that your great example of Christian living; your caring tender and compassionate nature; your exuberance in all things; your good sense of humour; your patience with the slow and stubborn; your graciousness to forgive the unforgivable; your abundant and abounding love for the unlovable; your willingness to go the second mile and to the enth degree; your ability to open up the scriptures to the common man ‘to make the invisible visible, to reveal Gods Son as His unspeakable Gift , to cause or hearts to sing and our feet to dance, for all these blessings we thank you.
You have been a wise advisor ,a champion of champion teachers ,a theologian par excellence, a first class mentor and a kind and wonderful friend.
Thank you for being you! God bless and keep you for all eternity.
Your very grateful brother and sister in Christ.
Robert and Corrie Porter and Family

Barrie & June Medland…
Dear Des,
It has been great to meet up with you again in recent times up on the farm. We take this opportunity to wish you a very happy 80th birthday and God’s richest blessing in your work.
Our minds go back to our Cooranbong days and you were lecturing at College. Early breakfasts up in the Wattagans and enjoying your inspirational sermons, which we always looked forward to and really appreciated.
With our Christian greetings,
Barrie and June Medland

Norm & Elisabeth Young…
I had the privilege of knowing Des in several spheres. First I had him as a fabulous teacher when I came to Avondale College (1962-65) as a new convert. He had an incredible impact on me, which set the direction of my spiritual journey. I look back on those classes and seminars under the SHF factory trees with great pleasure. His guidance re my academic future was vital in my later decisions. Our friendship increased after I had graduated, though limited to correspondence and several short stays in the Ford home prior to my going overseas to study.
Secondly, we were fellow students together at Manchester University (1970-72), he as a doctoral candidate and I as a MA student. It seemed to me that he had only just arrived when he placed a 100-page document on my desk for comments. He and Gill lived out of town in an old farmhouse called “Two-Gates.” A Spartan place of residence I’d have to say, but we had a great time together during these days and shared many humorous moments. Like the time I made a grand entrance into the Ehrhardt Seminar just as it finished because I didn’t realise daylight saving had started. Des didn’t let me live that one down.
Thirdly, Des and I were colleagues on the staff of Avondale College (1973-77), he as Dean of the Theology Faculty and I as one of his staff. This was an exciting time to start my teaching career as theology was bubbling with excitement like yeast in honeyed water. The gospel was effervescing on campus with a re-discovered power. Des was at the vanguard of this ferment, but students themselves were the real catalyst of change.
So thank you Des for your tutelage, your encouragement and your example. My wife joins me in wishing you happy birthday and may your 80th decade be your best yet.
God bless,
Norman & Elisabeth Young

Bill & Marion McLeod…
Dear Des,
Happy 80th Birthday, and may you enjoy many more healthy, fulfilling years.
We thank you sincerely for the many years you have been telling us: \’it\’s not who you are, but WHOSE you are\’ that is important.
May God continue to bless you with good health and ongoing years of preaching the gospel and changing lives.
Regards,
Bill and Marion McLeod

Nelson Palmer…
Dr. Des Ford,
I have not been your student, parishioner, or fellow-labourer as so many of whom have been inspired and blessed by such close association. However, I have witnessed and been tremendously uplifted by your life over the last few years.
I wish to thank you for the blessing I have received from your Christ-uplifting sermons and writings and your fundamental, natural Christian life and outreach, without hate, without judgement, without criticism, without sarcasm, when it would have been so easy and so humanly “natural” to have succumbed to that very human condition.
You have been an example to me. You have helped me a lot, I thank you. May God continue to bless you in that example you have always set. May we meet soon in Heaven.
Nelson Palmer

The Serics…
Dear Dr Ford
When I was a teen you were a key speaker at Brisbane big camp and I was part of the crowd that followed you around to the different divisions, wherever you were speaking. I felt very fortunate as the adults were discouraged from going to the youth meetings and yet it was acceptable for youth to go the adult meetings. The topic was like an oasis in the desert of dry sermons.
Sometime after this I was in the chapel at Avondale College when they announced your dismissal. It was like a demonstration and a funeral at the same time. I remember that some students were quite verbal in their anger at the decision and the rest of us sat in mourning.
A few years later, I was in a Sabbath School class and the leader asked, “When was the judgement?” Automatically I responded “At the cross”. The leader instantly said, “Ooo, we have a heretic amongst us”. Sadly, my husband shared this fear of “new” ideas, so we lived under law and not under grace.
In 2006 the kids and I moved into our miracle house in Peachester and I was astounded when I was told you held meetings just up the road. Your seminars have been inspiring and a huge blessing, while at home part of the routine for family worship is to read a segment from one of your books.
God is so good.
Rachel, Teliesha, Shaye, Corin and Rhialle Seric,

Kendra Haloviak…
Dear Dr. Ford,
Last Wednesday evening I stood before a group of 50 medical students and led a discussion on Matthew’s gospel account. As you know, Matthew surrounds the Sermon on the Mount with a summary of Jesus’ ministry: “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people” (Matthew 4:23; 9:35). When I consider your life’s work of sharing the Christian faith, I think of someone who has modelled his life after Jesus’ ministry.
“Teaching in their synagogues” – Your venue has been churches, more than synagogues. But when I think of all those locations of teaching the Gospel, my head spins. I imagine all the classrooms, fellowship halls, church sanctuaries, retreat centers, living rooms, and the list goes on. Thank you for your commitment to teaching Scripture to any and all who long to better understand.
“Proclaiming the good news of the kingdom” – You have proclaimed the good news in times of affirmation and in times of controversy. Your voice is always strong in its proclamation. And the topic is always God’s good news in Jesus Christ. When I consider the thousands of people who have decided to join the kingdom as the Spirit touched their hearts while hearing you preach, I imagine heaven weeping with joy.
“Curing every disease and every sickness” – Are you wondering what I’m going to say here?! When you would make dinner for our family, it wasn’t the tastiest meal, but we sure were healthy after eating it! I know my family has teased you over the years, but it is with the deepest respect for your commitment to the best health practices. While I did not always follow your advice during my graduate school years, I always remembered your cautions about exercise and plenty of sleep. Your advice is a way of caring about people, and it is appreciated.
My journey to the classroom Wednesday evening began in my parents’ living room listening to them tell me stories from the Bible. The journey continued in that same space, as I listened to you share the stories of Jesus and your convictions about salvation through God’s grace alone. Thank you.
And happy birthday!
With love and prayers,
Kendra Haloviak

Ernest, Carey, Jonathan and Jillian LeVos…
Dear Des:
Many Happy Returns and the Lord continue to bless you richly with His grace.
My family and I appreciate the day we visited you at your home in Auburn and you had prayer for us.
Several years ago, we stopped at a gas-station in Kansas, USA, and a plaque in the gift shop read: “I like all the others but I like my Ford the best.” I appreciate your influence on my life.
Des, I appreciate the good advise I have listened to in many sermons presented by other speakers, but I treasure Good News I have read in your books, the sermons I have listened to on cassette and in person.
You have done much for me. I have always treasured the text from Romans 8:28 that you penned in the books you wrote that are now an important part of my library.
The text from Romans has lead me to meditate and reflect on the Providence and Sovereignty of God in the Scriptures, in the books of John Flavel, Thomas Watson and Thomas Boston, and not to leave out what I have read for the past twenty years from the books and sermons of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, my spiritual mentor.
They are dead men, but they had a living faith. These men have helped me appreciate the value of the Gospel. Besides, your conversations, (not to forget the many walks we had in Banff, Alberta, Canada), the sermons you preached and books you wrote have done the same for me: to treasure the Gospel and to look for opportunities to share the Good News. Your personal example has certainly rubbed off on me.
I treasure the friendship I have had with you, not to forget the walk in San Francisco in 1978, and the prayer you prayed for me in Monterey Bay California in 2005. God bless you and your family richly.
All the best,
Ernest, Carey, Jonathan and Jillian LeVos.

Allan & Ruth Juriansz… In 1914, Benjamin John Juriansz, a Dutch Reformed adherent, married Edith Ondatje, a Baptist. They begat six sons and four daughters. In 1932, Edith converted to the SDA Church, and raised all their children as SDAs. Benjamin remained Dutch Reformed. All the children and their spouses were steeped in the SDA Church and served it in lay or employee capacity. Four of the sons became ordained SDA ministers. In 1957, I the youngest, graduated from Avondale College, with a Bachelor of Education. I was an M L Andreason style SDA: \”When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as his own\” (EGW: Christ\’s Object Lessons). I continued in a constantly depressed spiritual state, seeing no progress in reproducing the character of Christ. I had no hope in my life, despite having accepted Jesus as my Saviour. Before leaving Avondale, I was fortunate to attend some of the devotional meetings of the Potomac Seminary Extension School held that summer. On a Sabbath afternoon walk to the Swing Bridge on the Avondale Campus, with Desmond Ford and Edward Heppenstall, I heard for the first time, the Gospel, from the lips of Desmond Ford. It was like the Walk to Emmaus. That day Desmond Ford became a landmark in my life. When Des was at PUC in California, and Ruth and I were in Toronto, Canada, we arranged for Des to take two week of prayer sessions, at the SDA High School and the Kingsway College in Toronto. We revelled in his preaching the Gospel of Grace. In 1979, my eldest brother Frank and I listened together to the tape of the talk Des gave at Angwin on the Investigative Judgement. That tape split the Juriansz family into two. Five of us and our spouses and our mother, found ourselves outside the SDA Church. Frank was instrumental in spearheading Canadian Good News and the Toronto Good News Fellowship. Des visited twice a year for meetings, until his retirement and return to Australia. Des baptised three of our children into Christ. Des\’ radio broadcast goes on in Canada, coast to coast. Des, the SDA Church has missed a great opportunity by rejecting you and the full assurance we have in the Atonement at Calvary. You have extolled the Pauline Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are our modern Martin Luther. We know many, still within the SDA Church, who embrace the Gospel and reject the Investigative Judgement. You have given thousands the assurance they lacked as SDAs, and the scope of your witness is enormous. God bless you and Gillian and spare you both to continue your witness for many years to come. We are grateful to you and love you very much.
Allan & Ruth Juriansz.

Ed Parker…
Des,
One great contribution that you made was to challenge the legalism that was so often manifest within the church and also the 1844 sanctuary setting that really was a piece of SDA fiction. Historical roots do not transmute it into something genuine.
What I admired about you is (was) that to my knowledge and observation during the many years of conflict you continued to act with Christian grace when some within the system forgot that as presidents and leaders they too needed to do the same. There should always be integrity with authenticity – the inside should have congruence with the outside. I am reminded of the adage that “it is an impossibility to bring people to the truth, if by the way they came to it they find themselves yet outside of it! “ Probably this explains some of the malaise evident today in the institutionalized church.
May the latter years of your life be such that the grace that you so brilliantly proclaimed sustains you through both the sunny and the cloudy days that life inevitably brings.
Very best wishes,
Ed Parker

Russell Woolley…
Dr Ford,
I will always be grateful for the discovery through your teaching that the whole Bible was about our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Especially did I enjoy your Life and teaching classes and still remember the thrill they brought as Christ just came alive to me. I used to watch the clock when it was getting close to the end of class and hope that it would never end. What I learned inspired me to read more and discover for myself more of the wonderful truths stored in God\’s word. Your teaching and your consistent life has greatly enriched my spiritual journey.
Russell Woolley

John & Jenny Shaw…
Dear Des,
We have known you for a long time. Jenny’s family first met you when you were “assisting” George Burnside at his tent mission and then, later, you took an afternoon meeting at Hamilton Church in Newcastle. Jenny remembers the dynamic D & R classes you took at Avondale and the challenges of your Public Speaking classes, when she was tongue tied giving her first talk in front of the class and asked your permission to start again!
We both so enjoyed the fellowship we shared when you stayed in our home in London and many times in Sydney.
But most of all we remember you for the clarity with which you preached the gospel of righteousness by faith. Your wonderful sermons on the Book of Romans presented at camp meetings and replayed many times on tape were a real turning point in our understanding of the gospel and brought us the wonderful assurance of our acceptance in Christ.
Thank you for your ministry and the inspiration it has brought us so many times.
We wish you a very happy birthday and many more to follow. Above all we wish you the perfect peace and rest that result from God’s finished work.
Our fond love
John and Jenny Shaw

Susan & David Rogers…
Heartiest congratulations on achieving the status of a venerable, and amazingly healthy, octogenarian. We honour you, for your many achievements in life, for being an inspiration to thousands of students, and also for the consistent and unwavering demonstration of a charitable and gracious attitude. Your ongoing kindness, tolerance and patience have provided a wonderful example to those who have known you. One of life\’s true gentlemen.
Sincerely,
Susan and David Rodgers (Christchurch)

Joel Seric…
Dear Dr Ford
Thank you for being instrumental in my journey to discover God. I was rather confused concerning my standing with God as the law was presented by my father and grace demonstrated by my mother. After finishing school I stayed in Brisbane with my Aunt and Uncle to finish a Tafe course. During this time various people tried to force their own identities upon me. I was like a boat on a rough sea without a true captain. God seemed elusive to me; I could not find him. I thought perhaps God was found in a Church or a fellowship group so I tried many different church groups only coming away more confused.
Praise God that He is merciful and caring, and His love is eternal. Hoping to get some restoration, I decided to move back home. You were speaking down the road from home so my mum suggested that we go. After your seminar I asked you the fundamental question that I needed to have answered- how do I have God in my heart and not just in my head? You replied that I needed to read my bible, pray and read other devotional books. The truth! It was so simple. I found God or more like I turned around and realised that he had been waiting patiently. From Christmas 2006 I have been gently restored by God and have the true authority of who I am- a son of God. I eagerly anticipate the seminars where I receive spiritual food and enlightenment of Gods character.
Thank you so much
Joel Seric,

Laimon Eglentals…
Growing up in a church environment, I learned and was taught much about the law of God, but without knowing about his grace and gift of salvation. It was through hearing you preach at a small church on the Sunshine Coast many years ago that I first heard the true gospel preached and knew that I didn\’t have to keep the law perfectly to be saved.
Later I came to ask other questions, and was challenged by the questions of what God had revealed to us in nature and could a Christian love God with all of his mind. Once again I was pointed to the answers by one who had asked similar questions and had sought out the answers.
The healthy lifestyle and fitness that you incorporate into your day are truly inspiring, and if I live as long I hope to be able to emulate.
God Bless you Des on your 80th Birthday, and thank you for your dedication to the good news over the decades.
Laimon Eglentals

Lynden & Julie Rogers…
It is given to all to struggle for right, but many weary in well doing. It then falls to the resolute to press the battle. Des, you are such a one and an inspiration, in both person and word, for younger toilers. With apologies to Churchill:
In war – resolution for the gospel
In victory – magnanimity through the gospel
In defeat – defiance of anti-gospel
In peace – gospel good will
All the very best on your 80th.
Lynden and Julie Rogers

Peter & Judy Roennfeldt…
Dear Des,
It would have been a pleasure and privilege to be present on this day, and Judy and I would have been but for my being in the States at this time. Your ministry first touch Judy (or her parents Vic & Joan Dunn, for she would have been almost too young to remember!) when you ministered in Coff’s Harbour. My first contact was as a student in The Life & Teachings of Jesus class in 1967 – and what a blessing.
Although our paths have not crossed many times since 1970 when I left College, the gospel that you taught, which your life and ministry reflected, and to which you have remained faithful; has continued to mould and shape life, ministry, service and my view of God and his world. It is still my goal to foster environments of fellowship that more faithfully reflect His heart and grace.
Des & Gill, we hope to call in again sometime to visit you in your Sunshine Coast home – but we could not miss this opportunity to again express our deepest appreciation for your friendship, faithfulness and witness.
Des, we pray that our God will continue to bless you with peace and joy, with the constant abiding assurance of His love and presence in your life. We pray that the gathering and fellowship of friends for your 80th birthday will remind you of the blessings of God and the riches of His friendship with you.
Kindest Christian greetings,
Peter & Judy Roennfeldt

It was never the intention to send out the personal messages of greetings and appreciation sought as an acknowledgement of the passing of Dr. Ford’s 80 th year. As these many tributes came in from around the world however, it became apparent that they were documenting something deeper and more significant than mere good wishes. The writers were expressing the influence of a life, teaching, and ministry that profoundly touched their inmost experience. In an otherwise inaccessible way therefore, these messages represent a unique and valuable record worthy of permanent documentation. Of even more significance is the light they cast on Dr. Ford the man, whose incredible ability and potentially vast impact was willingly and tragically passed up by the church he loved. It is yet not too late for these messages to attract the attention of our leadership in such a way that amends may yet be made, and the vast recorded and written resources from the man that we honored that day in Brisbane may be championed across the globe to raise our membership to new heights of understanding of the gospel message that he loved and taught with such compelling clarity. To see this happen would be the greatest birthday gift of all.

“Academic Committee of the Sixties” sits in judgement on Dr Ford in a lighter segment of the program Guests of Miltonian statue Behind a Veil! 4

“There are some in life whose influence extends beyond the ordinary. For such, an injustice is done should a landmark in their journey pass without acknowledgment. More particularly when so much is owed by so many to that one person.”

“One of the best days of my life” – Des

A WHOLE OCEAN OF KNOWLEDGE is out there to be had. Most of us bail it out in thimblefuls. But once in a century there comes a mastermind whose intellect encompasses more than what is reachable, and lifts us as on an incoming tide. We who are gathered here today have felt the surge and cross-flow of such a mind which has beckoned us to achievements beyond ourselves and to shores we never knew.

We will eternally thank you Des for passing our way. You have lifted us to where we would not otherwise be. Thank you!

Tributes

Many from around Australia and overseas expressed their disappointment at not being able to attend the celebration of Des’s 80th birthday. But they did send a message, recorded here on the following pages. Approval has been obtained from each to include their message in this document. Their tributes are worth the telling…

J. David Newman…
Dear Des:
My My My!!!! Congratualations on reaching the wonderful age of eighty years. I first heard you speak at the British Union Worker’s meetings in the Stanborough Park Church when you were working on your PhD at Manchester. I have never been so inspired in my life.
Then I clipped every article you wrote in These Times and Ministry Magazine. I filed them and copied from them and grew from them. My next personal engagements with you were when you preached at the Akron church in Ohio and then in 1980, early, in your small apartment in Takoma Park, when you were writing your massive tome on 1844. A group of us met with you including Marty Webber.
We shared correspondence and you graciously let me reproduce and distribute your out of print book The Forgotten Day. You came to Damascus Maryland and gave a weekend series on the Sabbath after Richard Fredericks took the majority of the Damascus church out of the SDA denomination and gave up the Sabbath. And I could go on.
Des, what I appreciate about you the most is your passionate defense of the gospel. I use your great definition all the time about the gospel: You cannot separate justification and sanctification but you must distinguish between them. I use a bicycle as the illustration, even to the place of bringing one onto the platform when preaching a specific sermon on the gospel. That says it all right there. You have been so attacked for preaching cheap grace which is so far from the truth I could cry.
In fact, I tell people that you are more an Adventist in your lifestyle than 90% of Adventists. And what is even more remarkable is the fact that the denomination has accepted almost everything you have critiqued about the sanctuary doctrine accept for giving up the date October 22, 1844. What we have now in our current presentation of the Sanctuary Message is a great example of Hans Anderson’s tale of the Emperor and the crafty tailors who sold him an invisible suit. We have not admitted that we are naked here.
I am glad for Gillian who stands by your side and supports you so well. She is a great and wonderful companion and foil to you..
May God continue to richly bless you and give you abundant health.
And in the glorious gospel and assurance of Jesus Christ, in God’s magnificent and extravagent love,
J. David Newman, D.Min.,
Senior Pastor
New Hope Adventist Church
Fulton, MD.

Jere Webb…
Dear Des,
I would like to join with a multitude of others around the world in celebrating your 80th birthday and most of all your continued dedication to the cause of Jesus Christ.
In the 1970s I was a young Pastor/Evangelist in Texas and very impacted by my Father-in-law, Elden Walter. His book New Testament Witnessing was instrumental in clarifying the Gospel for me. I can still recall him speaking highly of you almost 40 years ago. So when the furore arose around 1980, even though we had never met, I followed your ministry with keen interest. Your manuscript prepared for Glacier View was something that I read cover to cover, not once but twice. It was such an eye opener for me and raised questions about doctrine and church policy that obviously needed to be addressed.
I, along with thousands of others, was greatly disappointed by the Brethren at your firing. I am sure that you don’t remember it; but I wrote a letter of protest to Neal Wilson. At the time I was the pastor at SMC so I carbon copied it to the other college church pastors. It got back to me that Neal thought I was declaring “war on him” which was not the case. I was just keenly disappointed in church administrators for their inability to deal directly with issues that you documented as having plagued us for many decades.
Well enough reminiscing. . . I rejoice with you now in what has happened in the last 40 years. The SDA church that I am a part of has come a long way! Clifford Goldstein was a young student at SMC when I was pastor. Recently he was our guest here at The Oasis church in Boise, Idaho. During a Q&A session on Sabbath afternoon he referred to the traditional IJ doctrine as “Voodoo Doctrine.” Interesting coming from him don’t you think!
Through all of the turmoil, you have consistently kept the focus upon Jesus. Thank you for that. Thank you for not becoming bitter and angry with the Brethren. You have left all of your students a tremendous example of what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Keep up the good work. And if there is ever a chance that you can come to Boise, we will clear the calendar for you!
Best wishes and Happy Birthday!
Jere Webb
Boise, Idaho

Anita, John, Alistair and Michelle McKean…
Dear Des,
Congratulations on achieving the magnificent age of 80 years. We are sure you are destined for many more and pray that God will give you good health and the strength to continue your ministry. (We are very selfish and want more).
I first knew you in 1961 when I sat in a D&R class of yours at Avondale. Although young then and doing the course because I had to I was impressed with the command you had on the subject. I was only doing it as an audit but I remember those doing it for credit trembling at the rigor you demanded.
Our paths next crossed when you came to Alberta and held some GNU meetings in Red Deer. That was when we began to realize that we were nominal Christians and had never heard the gospel. Listening to GNU tapes, reading your publications and attending GNU meetings in Banff has changed us and today we proudly proclaim we have the gospel and glory in what Christ has done for us.
I have always enjoyed your typological references and still find it one of my greatest joys to find new ones to build on the foundation you laid.
Our son, Alistair has grown up hearing your name often mentioned, reading your books and having you as a guest in our home has made a great impression on him. We attribute his interest in spiritual things to you. He is very grateful for the reference letter you wrote for him when he was applying to Oxford. When he went there for his interview they asked who this Dr. Ford was. Truly no man had spoken like this before. It probably got him in. Then you honoured us by coming over to perform his marriage last year. Words are inadequate to express our thanks for all these blessings.
Love Anita, John, Alistair and Michelle McKean

Helen (Meissner) Pasco…
The Impact of Des Ford on my Life
When I first heard Des preach I was amazed because I had never heard such good news. It was at Maranatha Camp in Qld and my first meeting with young Adventist people outside of the Kingaroy church. I soaked up his words like blotting paper and my heart was warmed.
Over the next four years while attending Avondale College, it was a joy to hear Des preach at Chapel Vespers and church services. For 3 years I was blessed to sit in his Bible classes and be influenced by his spirituality, insight and warmth.
During my last 2 years at Avondale I worked as Des’s Secretary. This was yet another opportunity for personal growth as I observed him through the ups and downs of life. He was unfailingly patient, kind and generous. Many times I was deeply touched when typing a reply to a correspondent to hear his voice coming through the headphone with his vibrant warmth and compassion as he sought to encourage someone. He wrote like he spoke. When he faced personal challenges, he was at his best.
He has been a mentor to me and has influenced how I have lived my life.
Thank you very much Des
Helen (Meissner) Pascoe

Iris Yob…
Dear Des:
Thank you for giving us a sanctuary (rendered open and cleansed, no doubt) to which we could retreat in our minds to think big thoughts and use as a turning point in our own spiritual journeys.
May your years be as days (well that is almost biblical)—80 years for 80 days, why that makes you less than three months old! Plenty of time for more reading, writing, and swimming. And may there be much of all three.
Iris Yob
Bloomington, IN USA

Kristen Jakobsen…
Since it is quite a long way from North Norway to Brisbane, it is not possible for me to attend Des Ford\’s birthday. But thank you very much for the invitation, and please pass to him my most hearty congratulations, and tell him that I greatly admire his courage and honesty which deserve recognition in the SDA church. I believe that he will be looked upon as one of the heroes in the future history of our dear Church.
Cordial greetings from your Brother in Christ,
Kristen Falch Jakobsen
Norway

Bert Haloviak
Greetings Des (and Gill):
The Haloviaks send their kindest greetings possible. You both have become a crucial part of our lives even when we are separated. Among our happiest reflections are those times we shared together. In harmony with the Ford still running, I can claim a rather modest accolade: this archivist is still digging. See if the attached that I recently found in Wilson correspondence adds anything to your 80th:
Neal Wilson to Robert Pierson, Feb 4, 1980:
Des Ford is working hard on the assignment we have given him, but basically the whole matter revolves around his understanding of the role and work of Ellen White. He unfortunately does not consider Ellen White to be authoritative in the areas of doctrinal theology and does not consider that she has teaching authority comparable to prophets that are in the Scripture. We hope that he will be able to adjust his thinking and to see that it is impossible to limit Ellen White’s inspiration and accord her something less than that which is intended when the Lord chooses a human vessel to be an extension of his self-revelation. He needs our prayers.
Bert Haloviak

Leigh Johnsen…
Dear Des:
Unfortunately distance prevents me from attending the celebration of your eightieth birthday in Brisbane. I know I write not only for myself but also for the entire editorial staff at Spectrum magazine in congratulating you and wishing you all the best on this momentous occasion.
I also want to thank you for the initiating the discussions within Adventism that you have, for the grace you have demonstrated, and for your contribution to Spectrum magazine and to the Association of Adventist Forums. Looking back over past issues of the journal, I cannot help noticing the important role you have played in the development of our community.
On a more personal level, I am also very grateful for your willingness to help stimulate the discussions that circulate around the weekly Sabbath School commentaries on Spectrum’s Web site.
I wish you all the best in coming years. May God continue to bless you.
Sincerely,
Leigh Johnsen
Associate Editor
Spectrum magazine

Douglas Cooper…
Dear Dr. Ford,
Congratulations on your 80th. birthday. I have been so blessed by your life and ministry. I have considered you my mentor and pastor for over 30 years.
You helped bring me out of legalism into the understanding and more importantly the experience of salvation by faith. You helped me move from religiosity to personal spirituality. As far as I am concerned you are one of the greatest gospel preachers of our time.
Additionally your example of humility and kindness, love acceptance and forgiveness under the difficult circumstances you have faced and the unfair treatment you have received has been an incredible lesson and inspiration.
Douglas Cooper, Ph.D
Author Living God’s Love
Angwin, California

Vern Heise…
Dear Des,
Congratulations on attaining the ripe old age of four score years. But the best is yet to come when time gives place to eternity. Lord Hasten the day!
I want to tell you Des that knowing you and reading all your published works, and listening to dozens of tapes and sermons has greatly enriched my life, mentally and physically and spiritually.
I came out of College sixty two years ago with a high distinction in legalism, perfectionism and fundamentalism.
After about 20 years of ministry, Edna and I decided we had had enough. We were at rock bottom. Providentially we attended your Gospel seminar at Sawtell youth camp, where you majored in Romans and Galatians. I can’t find words to tell you how your ministry revolutionised our lives. We came home on cloud nine and life has been different ever since.
It has been a great privilege to share the good news with people who have spent most of their live living in doubt and insecurity.
My love to Gill and God’s richest blessing on you both.
Vern Heise

Bob and Sirje Walkowiak…
Happy Birthday!
It has been a very long time since we met together, twice in Itasca State Park in Minnesota and once in Moncton, New Brunswick. We\’re remembering the baptism you performed at the head waters of the Mississippi River which was a mere trickle compared to the mighty waters down stream.
The impact of your ministry as they have influenced our lives has been incalculable. Nothing was ever the same again after the Gospel became so clear. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made in preaching that Gospel.
Again, have a very happy birthday!
Bob and Sirje Walkowiak

David J Cadieux Sr…
Dr. Ford, I\’m sending this message to add my prayers to our Saviour, along with all the others on your behalf, and to thank you for your many years of devotion to the study of the true Gospel so that we could all partake of the rest and joy that it brings while yet here. I am hopeful for you to have many more years to win many more hearts. God Bless, David J Cadieux Sr. Trenton, Ga. USA

Brian Sterley…
I can\’t attend, because of distance, but would like to say that Des has influenced positively my life and ministry as a Seventh-day Adventist pastor. You taught me to always keep the SON of righteousness in my eyes. And am eternally grateful for that.
May the blessings of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you not only on Sunday the 1st, but in the next year.
Brian Sterley
Cape Town, South Africa

Allen & Margaret Sonter…
Des,
You might recall that you conducted a Week of Prayer at Fulton College about 1976 or 1977. Your ministry on that occasion was much appreciated by all at the college.
I remember that one day in my office we were talking, and I asked you why you continued to emphasize the Love of God in all your preaching, when you knew that some criticized you for not covering a wider range of topics. Your reply was that many of our people don’t understand the love of God as they should, and unless they do understand that, then everything else does not have any real meaning for them.
So true!
It’s great to be able to share this occasion with you and so many friends.
We wish you a wonderful 80th birthday. May God continue to bless you.
Allen and Margaret Sonter

Coral Cherry…
Des,
It is with much regret that I am unable to attend your 80th birthday celebrations. However allow me to express a few words of appreciation for your influence and impact upon my life over many years-undoubtedly quite unknown to you.
I have in my possession a copy of the Australian Record, dated October 10, 1977. Your article therein entitled “The Everlasting Gospel” as found in “The Great Controversy” has been a continuing source of encouragement to me, especially during the disappointment over the church’s attitude towards you. I also have a tape of one of your sermons preached prior to the 1970s I think, entitled “The Cross”. Without doubt one of the most profound yet crystal clear sermons in its concept of the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour as being the foundation of the Christian faith.
Throughout your long life, the Lord has been your example and you have followed Him and demonstrated His grace and forgiveness in your dealings with others. I feel sad that Dick is not here to attend this milestone in you life but be assured he held you in highest esteem and often said, “I wish I could be the Christian that Des is.”
Thank you for being one of the finest Christians that I have known. When all is said and done our relationship with Christ is all that matters. Your exemplary life proves that you have such a relationship.
I wish you many more happy and healthy years in which to serve our God and to lead others to accept His grace and salvation so freely offered. May you be abundantly blessed is my prayer.
Coral Cherry

Carol & Ray Smith…
Thank you, Des, for showing us the Good News of the gospel in the whole Bible; for reminding us often that “we don\’t have to be good to be saved, but we do have to be saved to be good”; and for assuring us that though “we are worse than we ever suspected, God is better than we dared dream.”
Thank you for being an example of courage, integrity and grace under fire. We wish you many blessings on your 80th birthday and as you continue to make Jesus the centre of your teaching and of your life.
Carol and Ray Smith

David & Laura Shaw…
Thanking you for the huge impact you have had on our spiritual lives. When I was at my lowest ebb with illness, I listened to several Des Ford sermons daily. The inspiration that my spirit gained from the Word as presented in those sermons is the foundation that the last 10 years of my life has been built on.
Laura’s story is similar, with much hope and strength gained from these sermons when she was feeling very low. In addition to this, Laura believes that the impact of Des’ gospel presentations on her father, Cedric Taylor, was instrumental in her and her 4 brothers and sisters still walking with God as adults today when most of their friends and extended family have long since thrown in the towel.
So much of the time, we never get to see the results of our work as servants of Christ. Hopefully this collation of messages from people whose lives God has made a difference in through your ministry will be of great encouragement to you in that regard.
All the very best for your 80th birthday and beyond. I suspect you will be a bit embarrassed by all the fuss, but do try and enjoy it!
David and Laura Shaw