A novel aimed primarily at teenage and young adult girls was launched at the New South Wales’ Home Grown Training Event on Sunday, 16 March.  Authored by Amanda Bews and published by Signs Publishing Company, Heaven Sent, is a resource that helps young women address significant life-issues.

Heaven Sent raises many of the timely issues that our teens wrestle with. Painful family circumstances, the use of alcohol, the value of faith, the struggle for acceptance and sexuality are themes that are woven into the story,” commented Paul Bogacs, youth counsellor and family therapist.

He commended Nathan Brown, Editor at Signs Publishing Company, for his willingness to tackle the hard issues young people face today. “I’m proud to be part of a church that is taking seriously the issues that have often been ignored,” added Mr Bogacs.  Julie Weslake, Children’s Ministry Director for the South Pacific Division, shared, “I was captivated by the story while also being impressed with how significant issues were addressed.”

Heaven Sent includes a downloadable leader’s and participant discussion guide.  The guide uses the story as a starting point to explore thirteen topics including, pictures of God, alcohol, date rape, abortion, self-value, forgiveness and growing in a relationship with God.  During an interview conducted by Pr Craig Vanas, Amanda spoke of her dream of seeing the book and guides used to generate discussions in group-settings as part of young people developing a Biblical Worldview.  Amanda hopes that the book will give young people the perspectives, tools and wisdom needed to work through life issues in a healthy way.

Pr Garth Bainbridge and John Bews led in a time of prayer, specifically, for the people who will hold Heaven Sent in their hands. They prayed that this book may be used to impact lives and grow people in connection with God.

Heaven Sent is available at Adventist Book Centre stores and online at www.hopeshop.com.

Visit www.amandabewsbooks.com for more information about Heaven Sent, download discussion guides or to order a copy of the book.