Wellbeing now my new calling

Greater vision inspired alumnus to share health and happiness

A career in ministry and teaching prepared Bruce Johnston for what he considers one of his most significant contributions: coordinating and mentoring a team presenting Complete Health Improvement Programs over the past 10 years. These have helped more than 500 people to a better physical and spiritual life.

Bruce graduated “against the odds” with a Bachelor of Arts (Theology). A “recluse” who “spent a lot of time with books,” he remembers the encouragement provided by “Godly” teachers. Student Ministerial Association meetings provided “a passing parade of pastors and missionaries who inspired me with a greater vision.”

He set about fulfilling this over the next decade as a Seventh-day Adventist minister on the North and South Islands of New Zealand. A call to the church’s Madang Mission in Papua New Guinea followed before a return to ministry in Tasmania, where Bruce helped establish North West Christian School. He completed further study, which led to a move from the church to the classroom, as a science teacher at St Mary’s College. A Master of Educational Studies confirmed this new calling.

The unexpected death of Bruce and wife Lei’s youngest daughter, Tania, in 1972 precipitated a crisis of faith. “I doubled down on perfectionism, but in vain.” An Avondale summer school with theologian Hans LaRondelle brought focus “not on me and my salvation but on God and His grace.”

The Class of 1960 honours Bruce Johnston for sharing a message of health and happiness with those in his church and community.