On Wednesday, 24th October, 2007, the Reverend Dr John Mallison OAM launched his latest and 24th publication "Postcards on a Journey", at the Chatswood-Willoughby Uniting Church in Sydney's northern suburbs.
Dr Mallison explained that "Postcards on a Journey – Reflections of a Christ follower" is different to his other books. They were "Christian How-to Books," he said, but this one is based on his "biographical experiences." His ministry of sharing and teaching, primarily on mentoring, has taken him across Australia and into 30 countries. This publication is his reflection on those travels from a biblical perspective.
There are 34 chapters, in seven sections and it is considered to be a "multi-purpose" book.
"Each short chapter is ideal for a quick read during a busy day, as a starter for a time alone with God; a devotional to commence a Christian gathering or for useful experiences in small group meetings," he said. "They would also be excellent practical resources for mentoring sessions, when read beforehand and then discussed during the sessions."
The Reverend Michael Thomas, minister of the Chatswood-Willoughby Uniting Church, welcomed the gathering of denominational representatives, supporters and prayer partners, before introducing Mr Neville Cox who compered the meeting. Mr Cox is the Chairman, John Mallison Ministries and Focus on the Family Australia, as well as being Conference President, Churches of Christ in NSW, Australia.
Mr Cox presented several reviews from well-known Christian leaders around the world, who had read the manuscript and were acquainted with Dr Mallison's ministry.
Leighton Ford, President, Leighton Ford Ministries, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA wrote: "John Mallison has influenced many hundreds of men and women across the world. His name is a synonym for 'mentor.' Now this book helps us to understand why. Some of these stories are dramatic. Many are ordinary happenings in life and ministry. But John has set ordinary things in the light of Scripture, and the extraordinary call of God. John Mallison's memories will help many more to meet him as an inspiring guide and friend on our own journeys."
Bishop John R Reid, of the Sydney Anglican Diocese, commented: "John Mallison's pastoral, teaching and writing gifts have touched profoundly men and women in many churches and countries. A great number have also been greatly enriched by his mentoring skills. This book opens the window on a journey of both joy and pain that he and his wife have taken together and how God used them to bring many to maturity in Christ."
Ruth Dicker, former lecturer in New Testament Greek at Sydney University, and Gordon Dicker, former Principal of United Theological College, Sydney, stated: "This book will bring hope and encouragement to people of all ages. In it John Mallison has chosen to share with readers some of the notable experiences of his long and varied ministry as preacher, pastor, educator and mentor and invites us to reflect with him on the lessons these events have taught him and may also teach us. John's prayerful reliance on the Scriptures is an example for all Christians to follow. Particularly striking is the way in which he gives the glory entirely to God for the fruits of his ministry. While the experiences John shares with us have arisen mainly in the context of ministry, they touch on many aspects of the Christian life that are common to all believers. Written simply and clearly, the book will be of value to people in all walks of life. We can see it being used for many purposes: for private devotions, small group devotions and discussions and even as a resource in mentoring."
Also present at the Book Launch was Jeff Townsend, Trade Sales and Market Manager with CMC Australasia Pty Ltd, who published the book in their new division, HSM Publishing. When Openbook Publishing closed down, they were asked who else he could turn to. Without hesitation they suggested CMCA and HMS Publishing.
CMCA is known as the organising force behind the Christian Resources Exhibitions which were held in Sydney for several years. HMS Publishing has been established to create specific resources and books that will fill needs in the wider community. Their motto is to publish books that will "change he heart, save the soul and feed the mind!"
Mr Townsend said: "John (Mallison) shares his experiences as he has travelled around the world and teaches an important spiritual lesson, using each experience as an example. This is a Christian Living book."
In launching the book, Rev Michael Thomas selected a representative from the John Mallison Ministries Board (Neville Cox), from the Uniting Church (Reverend Norman McDonald – former General Secretary of the NSW Synod), from his multitude of supporters (Hon Milton Morris), from the publishers (Jeff Townsend), from his family (Paul Mallison) and from his church (Margaret Daly).
They then participated in the laying on of hands upon Dr John Mallison, holding a copy of "Postcards on a Journey".
A time of fellowship and afternoon tea was then held in the church hall, as well as the autographing of copies of the book for those present.
"Postcards on a Journey" has a recommended retail price of $16.95 and will be available from Christian bookstores across Australia.