Encounter August/September 2017

ENCOUNTER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 | ISSUE NO. 473

Years

of Encounter

1967 - 2017 Special Anniversary Edition 1

REFLECTIONS

Being faithful as God is faithful BISHOP PETER STUART bishoppeter@newcastleanglican.org.au

Every five years we expect a phone call from the media asking the Diocese for a reaction to the Census data. They want to know our perspective on the decline in the number of people identifying themselves as Anglicans. This year, the media queries came on the day the Census was released!

At one level, the media report is a little misleading because the Christian denominations are broken down and reported separately where as other religious groups are reported collectively. In 2016 over half of the population identified themselves as in some way affiliated with a Christian church and 60% of the population identified themselves as religious. In 2022 and in 2027, the enquiries will come again and

2

the proportion of the population with an overt religious or spiritual affiliation is most likely to have declined further. The number of people joining long-term movements, clubs and groups is declining in Australia.

This story is repeated in our region. In 2006 30% of the population indicated an Anglican affiliation whereas in 2016 that proportion had fallen to 23.1%.

Nationally 13.3% of the population claim an Anglican affiliation. Not surprisingly, religious affiliation is stronger among older people. On the Central Coast and in Newcastle, there are more people who claim no religious affiliation than who identify a connection with a Christian denomination.

In an era of discouragement, our call is to be faithful as God is faithful. A central feature of this will be doing well what we normally do. At the May special session of Synod I identified five practices that should guide us – heartfelt worship, creative teaching, loving service, genuine care and faith-filled outreach. I realised that there is another practice I had so taken for granted that I didn't put it into the list – living sacramentally.

As Anglicans we understand that a sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace given to us. It is an assurance from God that he is truly gracious to us. In the sacraments given to us directly

by Jesus (the dominical sacraments), God uses the ordinary things of

bread and wine (in Holy Communion) and water (in baptism) to do the extraordinary.

Every time we administer the sacraments we proclaim and make real the new covenant inaugurated

by Jesus in which life breaks into death, hope breaks into despair, and forgiveness breaks into conflict. We are drawn to focus our attention on God who through Jesus invites us to new understandings of humanity, love and eternity.

To live sacramentally is to anticipate or look forward to encountering or receiving grace in ways that God has promised to bestow it. It is to know that the chains of sin and death do not ensnare us; it is to claim again and again the benefit of all that Jesus has done for us. Living sacramentally, by administering the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion, is a fundamental commitment of the Anglican Church of Australia.

God is faithful to us. In times of uncertainty and doubt we adopt the disciplines and practices through which to express our faithfulness to God and his call upon our lives.

Difficult financial decisions In May, I wrote to every member of the Synod indicating the financial complexities facing the Diocese as we honour our commitment to make fair, pastoral and prompt redress to survivors of abuse by people associated with the Diocese. The Synod formally resolved that, "This Synod, expressing its firm resolve to ensure proper redress to victims and survivors of child sexual abuse within the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, receives the financial report from the Acting Diocesan Business Manager, and confirms that the Diocesan Council will, on behalf of the Synod,

exercise such powers and authorities as are necessary to ensure the repayment of the loan made by the Trustees of Church Property for the Diocese of Newcastle to the Diocesan General Fund and Budget Account no later than February 28 2018 and to ensure the ongoing payment of redress."

I have now written to every parish in the Diocese indicating some of the measures that will be proposed to the Diocesan Council to give effect to this resolution. The measures will include an increase in Parish Contribution from January 1 2018 which will affect all parishes. The other measure will affect only those parishes which have sold property, where the proceeds from that sale are held as endowment (permanent trust) or temporary trust, where the balance exceeds $100,000 and for which there is no current approved plan for building works. These parishes will be asked to advise the Diocesan Council of the impact on their parish of the Diocesan Council varying the trust to allow for capital to be withdrawn as part of the diocesan debt and redress management responsibilities. It is

intended that the proportion of the withdrawal from the available trusts will be equal.

I again commend to your prayers the experience of survivors of abuse within the Diocese and those who are closest to them who share their pain and anguish. I also commend to your continued prayerful consideration of the steps that we need to take as a diocese to face our past and shape a healthy future.

The Encounter - a 50 year story When Gutenberg invented the printing press the Church was one of the early adopters. Very quickly copies of the scriptures and liturgical texts were printed. It is no surprise that over the centuries the Church has been one of the early adopters of communications technology. We have a message of good news which we want to share!

It has been interesting to look over the various editions of the Encounter to see how this important Diocesan publication has made use of different technologies – computers and phone cameras have changed

the way it is put together. As well as being the Editor of the Encounter Louise Mackay manages diocesan communication through the website, Facebook and the regular electronic newsletters.

One of the delightful things about reading the Encounter is hope and joy that has come through so many editions. We have a positive story of a difference we are making in people's lives in Christ's name. It is also a record of how we have struggled together as the Anglican family in this region on some important and complex issues. It shows how we have worked to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God. In the Encounter, we have also explored our failings, most especially our failings in protecting people.

I want to pay tribute to those who have made the Encounter come to life – editors, writers, publishers, committee members, proof readers, advertisers, subscribers and contributors.

With every blessing +Peter

3

THIS EDITION 2 Reflections 4

Topics

6

Celebrating 50 Years

16

Thinking About Faith

17

Meet the Ordinands

18

Social Justice

20 Samaritans 22 Q+A 24

Anglican Care

25

What's On

26

Around the Diocese

The Anglican Encounter, the magazine of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, is published bimonthly from February to December. The Anglican Encounter is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.

Contact Details PO Box 817 Newcastle NSW 2300 P: 02 4926 3733 F: 02 4926 1968 E: editor@newcastleanglican.org.au www.newcastleanglican.org.au Production Team Editor/Designer: Louise Mackay Publisher: The Rev'd Murray Woolnough Editorial Committee: Robyn Ashley-Brown, Kath Dockrill, Emma Clark Proofreaders: Kath Dockrill, Pat Dring, Barbara Sweet, Judith Weaver, Pamela Lusty Printing & Distribution Printer: BlueStar Web Distribution: House With No Steps, Newcastle Subscriptions Local $30 per year; Overseas $40 AUD per year. To subscribe send your name, address and a cheque made out to the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, to The Editor, PO Box 817, Newcastle NSW 2300.

Advertising Advertise with us - great rates. Contact the editor for a rate card and bookings.

The Editor is not responsible for opinions expressed by contributors, nor do their views necessarily reflect the policy of this paper or of the Diocese. Acceptance of advertisements does not necessarily mean endorsement of product or service.

Contributions Welcome The Editor and Editorial Committee welcome contributions of stories and photographs for consideration for publication. The Editor and Editorial Committee reserve the right to edit or cut all submitted material. Submissions can be emailed to the Editor (please send images as high res JPEG or TIFF attachments).

Articles should be a maximum of 250 words and are not guaranteed publication. Please supply your contact details.

Next Deadline: September 8, 2017

4

TOPICS

Diocese Appoints New Chief Executive Bishop Peter is pleased to announce that Mr Stephen Phillips has been appointed as the Diocesan Chief Executive.

Bishop Peter said, "I am excited that we have someone with Stephen's breadth of experience and Christian commitment joining the Diocesan leadership. Stephen will be responsible for leading the financial and administrative work of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle."

Stephen Phillips comes to the Diocese with extensive senior executive leadership experience in the public and private sector.

Currently with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment he has also worked with Hunter Water Corporation and the Hawkesbury City Council. Stephen has qualifications in Commercial Law, Business Administration and Corporate Governance.

He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), a Fellow of the Governance

Institute of Australia, and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. He is also a member of the Commercial Law Association of Australia (CLA) and the Law Council of Australia (International Law Section).

Stephen began this role on July 24.

IN BRIEF APPOINTMENTS The Rev'd Peter Adkins has been appointed Rector of the Parish of Bulahdelah and Tea Gardens. Peter will be commissioned on November 7 at 7pm.

The Rev'd Canon Julia Perry has been appointed Director of Formation for the Diocese of Newcastle (0.5FTE). Julia will commence in August.

DIOCESAN OFFICE

The Rev'd Canon Paul West was commissioned Rector of the Parish of Maitland on July 4.

Mr Alan Green has been appointed as the NASC Chief Executive Officer.

Alan commenced on June 15.

The Ven Arthur Copeman has stepped back from the diocesan role of Archdeacon for Ministry Support with effect from 1 July 2017. He will continue to be the Archdeacon for Newcastle City.

Mr Stephen Phillips has been appointed as the Diocesan Chief Executive Officer. Stephen commenced on July 24.

As part of her duties as the Archdeacon of Newcastle, the Ven Sonia Roulston became the Executive Officer of the Diocesan Ministry Council from July 1 2017.

The Rev'd Canon Katherine Bowyer has been elected as the 16th Dean of Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle.

Katherine will be commissioned on October 4 at 7pm.

Mrs Linda Wilson has been appointed Chief Operating Officer commencing July 24. Linda will lead our policy development work and take on the oversight of the business papers for key meetings. She will continue to lead the parish services team.

MEMORIAM Bishop Bob Butters died on July 4.

The Rev'd Christine Plumridge died on July 7.

TOPICS

Historic Election of New Dean of Newcastle Bishop Peter was pleased to announce in June that The Rev'd Canon Katherine Bowyer was elected to be the next Dean of Newcastle.

Canon Katherine took some time out to speak with the Encounter about this appointment and share some of her plans and aspirations as Dean of Newcastle.

For Canon Katherine, it's an "honour and a privilege" to be called to serve the Cathedral community and the City of Newcastle as Dean of the Cathedral. And as the diocese celebrates the important milestone of the 30th Anniversary of the Ordination of Women to the Diaconate, being the first female Dean of the Cathedral "demonstrates the commitment that the Diocese of Newcastle has to affirming the ministry of women and men at all levels of service and leadership," Canon Katherine said.

On receiving the phone call from Bishop Peter, Canon Katherine's initial reaction was one of being surprised and overwhelmed. "When Bishop Peter told me that it was the unanimous election of the Cathedral Chapter, I was incredibly humbled.

"Initially, though, I was lost for words – and those who know me, know that I'm not often in that situation! My husband David had just had triple bypass surgery eight days before – it's fairly safe to say being elected Dean was the furthest thing from my mind!"

And the news still hasn't quite settled in yet. "It's been a month, and I still find myself having moments where I catch a glimpse of what it means.

"I have felt incredibly affirmed and prayed for. I have been overwhelmed again by the number of phone calls, cards, and letters, and people offering me congratulations, prayers and support. Dean Stephen Williams has been wonderfully welcoming, and we are working together in this time of transition," Canon Katherine said.

To add to the list of firsts, Canon Katherine is also the first person born in the Diocese to become the Dean. On being a Novocastrian and her upbringing in the diocese, she said, "One of the great things about Newcastle is that we still have this deep sense of being connected to one another – I think that's one of our strengths.

"As Novocastrians, we work hard, we speak out about injustice, and we're passionate about the things we believe in."

Canon Katherine's parents grew up in Carrington and she was born whilst her father was the curate in the Mayfield Parish. With her father as a priest in this diocese, Canon Katherine and her sister "grew up 'in the church', so to speak."

"Mum and Dad always encouraged my sister and me in all we did. Their support has been – and is – really important."

As a family, they moved around the Diocese – from the Camden Haven to Gosford, and to Newcastle, "so I have a sense of knowing the Diocese well."

"My mother-in-law once said that the Hunter River will always call to me – and I think she's very right."

The Church, the Diocese, the Cathedral, the City – these are all things that Canon Katherine loves.

"I've grown up learning about these things and being taught by them as well. I have a deep sense of our story in this place. It's no secret that I love history, and I think being able to tell the stories, and the stories of God working, is a great privilege."

But this also means we don't forget the stories of the past. "There are stories of hurt and shame and betrayal as well as stories of faithfulness and joy and goodness.

These are our stories. It's part of the fabric of who we are, and it's important that these stories are honoured and told well. As a leader, it's vital to listen to listen and learn

from these stories, as we move into the future," Canon Katherine said.

Canon Katherine is committed to our churches being welcoming, and inclusive safe places for all. "Fr Stephen and the Healing team have exercised a wonderful ministry – I'm looking forward to building on this work in the Cathedral and as part of the Diocese as a whole."

Her first step as Dean – getting to know the people of the Cathedral community "and learning more about the incredible ministries of the Cathedral!

"I'm looking forward to building on the connections with the city and the wider community.

"We're looking forward to being with you! My husband David, and Tom and Elizabeth are looking forward to worshipping and working with you.

(Our cat Morwenna is also looking forward to being a Cathedral cat – so many places to explore). We are praying for and with you, and we're looking forward to celebrating together on October 4 at 7pm," Canon Katherine concluded.

ADVERTISE WITH US Advertise with the award-winning Encounter and take advantage of great rates. Contact the editor for a rate card and bookings on 4926 3733 or editor@newcastleanglican.org.au

5

50 s

g n i t a r b e l Ce

r a Ye

In the Beginning: 1967-1979 For many years in the Diocese of Newcastle, parishes received communication from the Bishop through a publication titled The Newcastle Diocesan Churchman.

It was felt in 1967 that a change in approach to the communications outreach in the Diocese was needed.

The Bishop at the time formed a committee to look at possibilities, and the Anglican Encounter was born. It was decided that a tabloid format should be used, with a wide range of articles including social comment, Christian teaching and news of overseas mission work, as well as 'parish and people' news, and of course, the Bishop's column.

Initially 12,000 copies were printed every second month – by 1969 this had settled down to 10,000 an issue.

HIGHLIGHTS 1967-1979

6

In August 1967 the first issue of the Anglican Encounter was printed by an editorial committee.

The editorial committee worked as a group to establish the name and look of the Anglican Encounter. The name "Encounter" was established as a means of all people "Encountering".

The committee then decided to put a cross in the design of the title.

The first Bishop's column said, "I welcome this fresh opportunity of having a word with the people of the diocese, many more than through the former "Diocesan Churchman". We begin with more than 11,000 copies and expect to increase circulation.

"The Bishop uses every opportunity of meeting and talking with the people of the diocese, but with more than 200 churches to visit, even two of

us cannot meet and speak with all congregations. This regular column is my means of ENCOUNTER with our diocesan family. I hope we are that, in deeds as well as in words."

In the 1960s and onwards, publishing was completed by printing the news print, cutting it out, and laying the articles out on a full sheet of paper.

A lot of time was spent establishing exactly where each article will go.

The Anglican Encounter's appeal could be contributed to both lay people and clergy writing for the publication. Photographs were sent in from across the diocese, and missional stories from around the world were sent in by missional partners such as ABM and Bush Church Aid.

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Sue Williamson Editor February 1980 - December 1985 In 1980, the Bishop announced the appointment of Mrs Sue Williamson as the new editor of the Anglican Encounter. Sue was a local appointment, living her whole life in this diocese. She was married to the Rev'd Ray Williamson and they had two daughters, Elizabeth and Judy.

Sue came to the role of editor with little publishing experience.

She reported, "I was able to gain valuable experience during March by attending in Sydney the annual convention of the Australian Religious Press Association (ARPA).

"This experience was valuable in two ways. First I gained useful tips and knowledge, as well as a sense of professionalism from speakers who were professional journalists; and from the two workshops I attended on subediting/layout, and photography.

"I hope Anglican Encounter may be the better paper from my experience, especially after I have purchased and digested some of the recommended

reading," Sue wrote.

Throughout the 1980's the publication had a circulation of 5,7006,200, varying throughout the years depending on demand.

Readers could also subscribe to the publication at a fee of $5.

Throughout Sue's editorship, the Anglican Encounter covered key events and topics, such as Anglicans Share in East End Development, highlighting the diocese's development of new office space. The role of women in the diocese was a hot topic, including topics such as Clergy Vote Against Women's Ordination; as well as the

appointment of women as Synod representatives, The Synod won't ever be the same.

In November 1984, the Anglican Encounter shared the news Samaritans - from vision to reality.

The vision of the foundation was passed at Synod unanimously and with great applause. ď ľ

HIGHLIGHTS 1980-1985

7

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Marion Willey Editor 1986 to 2001 – a time of great changes I commenced as Editor of the Anglican Encounter in January 1986, following Sue Williamson — and continued for 15 years until February 2001, a wonderful time of learning and growth for me. It was then a monthly tabloid newspaper.

We had just returned to Newcastle for my husband Stan to be Chaplain at The Mission to Seafarers, when the Bishop asked me to take on this position. I was very reluctant.

I knew absolutely nothing about newspapers, editing, layout or photography. Despite my misgivings and feelings of inadequacy, I agreed to "give it a go".

With no resources whatsoever, I worked from home, typing articles on A5 paper with a little portable electric typewriter. Then I worked out a draft layout after counting words and took this to the Maitland Mercury to be typeset and printed. This was not really satisfactory. Eventually I found the helpful staff of the Gloucester Advocate. I left home at 5.30am to take my bits of paper to Gloucester, watch while they typeset and physically cut and pasted the copy onto large sheets. Then I would proof read, leaving about 4pm to drive to East Maitland to hand it over for printing, and get home about 7pm.

In 1987, the Samaritans having moved from their verandah in the Darby Street Registry Office to Broadmeadow, it was suggested that I work from there. This made available the resources of the office, not to mention the invaluable access to people — the Bishop and Registrar, and clergy and lay people calling in for meetings who popped in to say hello — and often provided a source of stories.

Marion Willey receives an ARPA Award as editor for Best Regional Publication (Highly Commended) in 1995

In 1989 I persuaded Registrar John Woods to use the money spent on typesetting to buy Macintosh Desktop Publishing equipment. I had never even seen a computer close‑up, let alone used one — it was a very steep learning curve, with the technology changing dramatically over the years.

The printers changed to the Northern Daily Leader of Tamworth.

The work was done on an honorarium basis, initially $3,300 p.a. I worked to gradually increase this to a more realistic figure. The editor undertook all tasks — reporting, photography, editing, typesetting, design and layout, advertising sales, accounts and promotion (hours worked averaged at least 50 per week).

I attended diocesan and parish functions. Highlights were the ordinations of the first women as deacons and then priests; the earthquake in December 1989; the consecration and installation

of bishops; the Diocesan Sesquicentenary celebrations of 1997-98 — especially the visit of the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr George Carey, the "Come, Listen, Live" Mission, and "Awakening 96" at Riverwood Downs; also national events such as General Synod and the World Council of Churches Gathering in Canberra in 1991.

I am most grateful for the opportunity to have worked with the Encounter, the diocesan staff, and the wonderful volunteers who helped with proofreading, and distribution.

It was a most enriching and exciting time for me, a period in which I learnt so many new skills, became a part of the lives of so many wonderful people and took part in so many great and small occasions in the life of the Diocese. It was a wonderful privilege!

"I knew absolutely nothing about newspapers, editing, layout or photography. Despite my misgivings and feelings of inadequacy, I agreed to "give it a go"."

8

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION HIGHLIGHTS 1986-2001 HISTORIC ORDINATIONS OF FIRST WOMEN ORDAINED DEACON  March 1986 (left): "In an historic ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral, in an atmosphere of great enthusiasm and joyfulness the Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr. David Penman, ordained nineteen people deacon - eleven men, and a first in Australia, eight women."

June 1987 (right): "It was in an atmosphere of mounting anticipation and excitement that on the evening of Sunday, May 10, Christ Church Cathedral gradually filled to capacity, as people from not only throughout this diocese, but from all over Australia, converged to celebrate a historic ordination, that of the first two women to be ordained deacon in this diocese."

 The Day the Clocks Stood Still in Newcastle, February 1990: "At 10.27am, on Thursday, 28 December, three days after Christmas, the clocks of Newcastle, Australia's sixth largest city, stopped.

The people of the city and its surrounding suburbs were doing very ordinary things - meeting, driving, shopping, working, reading, when the earth moved beneath their feet, the buildings swayed, awnings crumpled, plaster, masonry and bricks crashed to the ground.

Much loved places of worship and service have been damaged, though none, happily, beyond repair. Most the churches and rectories in the Newcastle area have been damaged."

'Encounter' goes Desk Top, circa 1989  This is the first issue of "Encounter" produced completely 'in house', except for the actual printing.

Following months of research and consultations, our own Desk Top Publishing equipment has been purchased - a Macintosh IIcx Computer, (christened "Dolly") with A4 monitor and a Laserprinter.

Using this, the editor, a complete computer illiterate, has battled through for the first time the actual typesetting and pasting of an issue.

With so much material coming, it again had to be a 'bumper' issue, with 16 pages instead of the usual 12!

The complete control afforded by doing our own typesetting has meant that late items, such as a report on General Synod, which only finished on 25 September, the day we normally would go to the printers, could be included. 

9

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Jillian Hodgins Editor April 2001 - March 2002 In 2001, 22-year-old Ms Jillian Hodgins was appointed editor for the Encounter, taking over the reins from Marion Willey. Prior to being editor for the Encounter, Jillian had worked as a journalist for The Newcastle Star for three years.

"Ms Hodgins said she was looking forward to contributing to the growing success of the Encounter.

Already she has made some changes, as will be noticed in this issue, and said there were more to come," the news report said.

Jillian was open to reader feedback

also, "Is there something you really like or dislike about the paper? If so, let me know," she said in her first edition.

Throughout Jillian's time as editor, the publication saw many changes in design, including a redesign of the newspaper's masthead and cover layout. Full colour printing was a hit for the cover, starring feature photos from key announcements, including the announcement of a new Archbishop in August 2002.

And what was one of the hot topics at this time? The one and only Harry

Potter. Harry Potter got two mentions in the May 2001 edition, Harry Potter - Angel or devil? and Harry as Saviour.

Pat Rowe Editor May 2002 - December 2002 Pat Rowe became editor in May 2002, following the resignation of Jillian Hodgins. Pat was "delighted" to take over the production of the newspaper.

"You will see some changes to it already and I hope they meet with general approval," she wrote in her first edition.

"It is my intention to improve the paper and provide you with the kind of material you want to read.

HIGHLIGHTS 2001-2002

10

"I would be particularly happy to hear from any younger readers who feel they have a talent for writing and from anyone who has news, a humorous story or ideas they would like to share."

The newspaper's masthead went under yet another makeover, this time opting for a modern typeface.

In the year with Pat as editor, the publication grew in pages from 16 to 20.

"The paper is receiving more stories, selling more advertisements and is actively seeking to expand both aspects of the paper," a news report said.

"Encounter will continue to be published on a monthly basis and there are plans for special features, a children's section with competitions and prizes, and a crossword."

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Lauren Eyles Editor February 2003 - December 2005 In 2003, Ms Lauren Eyles was appointed editor of the Encounter.

Throughout Lauren's editorship, the Encounter saw the installation of Bishop Brian Farran in 2005, a new Primate for Australia, and the Boxing Day Tsunami.

The newspaper was published monthly and had a circulation of 8,100 readers. Design of the Encounter through this time saw colourful covers with spiritual artwork and photos from key events.

Readers and contributors were often contemplating topics such as, What does vocation mean to you?, Lessons

learned from Billy Elliot, Will we ever be happy? and more.

On reflecting on her time as editor Lauren said, "An extraordinary breadth of stories come to mind, from the Iraq War, to the Governor General's resignation, to parishes breaking new ground in ministry with cafe churches".

"I admire the commitment of the many people who contribute to the paper each month, including members of the editorial committee who give their time each month to contribute story ideas and proofread thousands of words," she said. 

Awards for Encounter Throughout the years, the Encounter has been awarded a number of Australasian Religious Press Association (ARPA) Awards for Excellence.

ARPA is an ecumenical Christian network for Australian and New Zealand publications and their editors, journalists, designers and contributors.

The Awards celebrate excellence in writing; design and creativity; and publishing.

X 1990 • Best Feature (Newspaper or Magazine) The Night Air is Falling by Jill Smith 1995 • Highly Commended for Best Regional Publication • Winner Best Original Artwork

by Cath Chegwidden 1996 • Highly Commended for Best Regional Publication • Highly Commended for Best devotional article applying to faith to life - Lazarus, come forth by Canon Dr Barbara Howard 1997 • Best Regional Publication

1998 • Best Regional Publication • Highly Commended Story by a new or non-professional writer - Restoring Brokenness

by Barbara Howard 1999 • Highly Commended for Best Regional Publication 2003 • Highly Commended Best Regional Publication • Best Newspaper Front Page July 2003 edition 2004 • Best Regional Publication • Highly Commended Best Newspaper Front Page • Highly Commended Best Devotional Feature - Building Church in Our Community by Mary Bullock 2005 • Best Regional Publication 2006 • Highly Commended Best Original Artwork - Vivienne Nelson's artwork, August 2007 • Silver Best Regional Publication

2008 • Best Regional Publication • Bronze Best Ecumenical Story 2010 • Bronze Best Front Page 2012 • Silver Best Regional Publication 2013 • Silver for Best Regional Publication 2014 • Silver for Best Regional Publication • Silver for Best Column or Blog - Bitter Reflections on Climate Change by Fr Keith Joseph 2015 • Silver for Best Regional Publication • Bronze for Best Feature (Multiple Authors) • Highly Commended for Best Cover 2016 • Bronze for Best Regional Publication • Bronze for Best Original Photography - Portrait of Bishop Greg Thompson by Kathleen Mackay

11

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Elizabeth Baker (Keevers) Editor February 2006 – November 2013 When I became the Editor of the Anglican Encounter in 2006 it was a time of change in the Diocese.

Bishop Brian Farran was the Bishop of Newcastle and he was encouraging the Diocese to be a missional church with the introduction of Ministering Communities in Mission.

I was employed by the Diocese with the mandate to launch a new website and consequently to ensure there were the resources for this project, the newspaper was moved from being a monthly publication to a bi-monthly one.

This decision was not particularly well received! I quickly realised how important the Encounter is in the life of the Diocese and as soon as we developed and launched the new website in early 2007, the Encounter returned to being a monthly publication. We also established a newsletter called the Encounter Express that was circulated to parishes in the alternate months.

Each edition we worked to showcase the news of the Diocese both from a Diocesan level and to share the work of parishes. Capturing the diversity of church life across the Diocese was always important to me and the editorial committee. We established and continued a number of regular sections to ensure Children and Youth Ministries were highlighted, Samaritans, our schools and Anglican Care news was covered and of

course, I received many submissions from parishes. I enjoyed reporting on significant events like ordinations, the various Diocesan Conventions and the arrival of Bishop Peter Stuart to the Diocese.

I was always most grateful for the input and commitment of the editorial committee. During my time as editor I worked closely with Fr Stephen Williams and Fr David Battrick, both in the role of Chair of the committee.

I also have wonderful memories of the lovely proof-reading ladies gathering each month, supporting me with edits and changes and sharing a good story or two at the same time!

It was this great team that allowed us to win multiple Australasian

Religious Press Association Awards over the years and it was certainly a privilege to be recognised through that network.

I vividly recall the cover of the first edition I edited – it was a beautiful painted cross that the Rev'd Julia Perry had arranged to hang in the entrance of Samaritans. I think of that first edition of the Encounter regularly, as I walk past that very cross multiple times a day at the Samaritans office where I work as the Communications Manager. It was a privilege to share the news of the Diocese during my time as editor and I continue to feel privileged as I share the stories of Samaritans and showcase the wonderful work done by the welfare agency of the Diocese of Newcastle. 

"It was a privilege to share the news of the Diocese during my time as editor and I continue to feel privileged as I share the stories of Samaritans and showcase the wonderful work done by the welfare agency of the Diocese of Newcastle."

12

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

 First Edition, February/March 2006 "I vividly recall the cover of the first edition I edited – it was a beautiful painted cross that the Rev'd Julia Perry had arranged to hang in the entrance of Samaritans."

 New Bishop Welcomed to Church Community, March 2009 A special cover to celebrate Bishop Peter Stuart's consecration.

Bishop Peter was consecrated on February 2, 2009 at Christ Church Cathedral.

Encounter Moves Digital, November 2012  "The Anglican Encounter is now available to view online, in full, any time, for free!

Using Real View technology you can flick through pages as you would the paper copy, and you can also look through past editions of the Encounter.

The technology allows you to zoom in on certain parts of the paper so you can read articles in large font.

Editor, Elizabeth Baker said the technology would help spread the reach of the Encounter.

"It's great that we are able to produce a publication that is printed and available online"."

ELECTING A NEW BISHOP October 2013 (right) - A Message from Bishop Greg Thompson, our Bishop-elect: " I look forward in joy and confidence that what God has begun in us, he will fulfil to his purposes - and to the many occasions in meeting, leading and listening among you. Let us, in the seriousness of our service, also have some fun together."

November 2013 (left) - Speaking with Bishop Greg: "He [Bishop Greg] is a strong and outspoken advocate where he sees vulnerability, injustice and inequality within the community.

'It is important for the church to enable safe and child friendly environments built on trust and belonging,' Bishop Greg said."

13

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Louise Mackay Editor December 2013 - Current Over the past couple of months I feel I have taken on another hat in my role as Communications Manager for the Diocese, and that is as an archivist for Encounter. To really pay homage to Encounter over its incredible 50 years of publishing, I have searched through 30 years of archives at the University of Newcastle - an endeavour I found rewarding, contemplative, heart-warming and at times amusing.

I came across historic photos of our church buildings, including the Cathedral without its spire, young photos of clergy, and my personal favourite, a photo of Bishop Peter in 1995. I then continued to browse through another 20 years of newspapers and magazines here in the diocesan office to discover a history both in print and digital form.

Encounter has gone through many changes throughout its history, changing from a monthly publication, to bi-monthly, and back again, and at times within a couple of editions.

Circulation has fluctuated throughout the years, with as many as 12,000 copies being distributed, to at times 5,200.

We have also seen Encounter go through many “make-overs� - and at times weight loss and weight gain

- as the many editors have strived to achieve a contemporary style in design, layout and editorial. The masthead (title) is one of the most recognisable ways we can see this growth throughout the years.

As the years have gone on, Encounter has captured the essence of its era, sharing stories of events that have stopped Newcastle, the nation, and the world. We have heard of previous editors talk of events such as the Newcastle Earthquake, the Boxing Day Tsunami, and in more recent times the devastating Dungog Floods in June 2015. These events have demonstrated to the community how important church is during these times, and how the people of our diocese will always be there for the community in times of need.

We can also witness the introduction and development of technology throughout the past 50 years, from the traditional print press to the digital age of computers. I can only imagine the life of an editor before Photoshop and email. Cutting and pasting is an editing option on your computer, right? It was amusing to see the rise of advertising for the original computers in the Encounter in the early 80s - a true sign of the times.

As we jump forward to the 2000s we have seen the introduction of digital publishing, with interactive "flipbooks" which mimic turning pages in the traditional sense. The Encounter doesn't quite have a high online readership but it is certainly growing.

This technology has enabled the Encounter to reach readers all over the world!

The Encounter has been an award winning publication throughout the years, receiving 29 awards for editorial, design and for the overall publication. This is testament to the high quality and high standard Encounter and its editors and contributors have strived for.

As a journalist I have reflected on the change in style of editorial in the modern era. I have recognised that with the birth of social media, consumers demand news to be frequent and current. I have had to think about how the church can adapt to this lifestyle, and what does that mean for the Encounter?

In 2014 I met with Bishop Greg Thompson to discuss the future of Encounter, and the proposal of redesigning the publication to become a magazine. In 2014 I wrote, "As I reflect on the past, and look forward to the future for the

HIGHLIGHTS

December 2013: First Edition as Editor for The Anglican Encounter, celebrating Christmas and the arrival of our new Bishop.

14

February 2014: Special edition of Encounter to celebrate the moving Installation of Bishop Greg Thompson.

May 2014: An inspiring cover as we discussed walking the talk on reconciliation - a conversation that is important for the church then and now.

July 2014: Bishop Greg ignites momentum through a listening process in our churches and ministries. A favourite cover of Encounter for me.

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Encounter, it’s time to consider the true value of publication and think about ways to allow the Encounter to grow.

"Next issue will mark a new beginning for the Encounter, as it undergoes a make-over into a beautiful “coffee table” magazine-style publication.

It’s my hope that this new look Encounter will capture the heart of the Diocese, and become a source of inspiration that you can connect with on your faith journey. Please pray for the editorial committee as we grow alongside the Encounter and serve as the voice of the Diocese."

As editor I have had the pleasure of working alongside many incredible people throughout the diocese. I was able to attend a refugee picnic at Redhead, interview a refugee TAFE student, witness the inspirational community lunch outreach at the Cathedral, be a guest at a NAIDOC Week celebration at Cessnock Correctional Centre, and so much more. I have heard the stories of the mission and outreach of our parishes, celebrated alongside the diocese at special events and published the everyday stories of our churches.

But through the past couple of years as editor, Encounter has also faced our past and discussed shaping a healthy future. We have taken time to

October 2014: First edition of the new look Encounter magazine. In 2014 Samaritans celebrated their 30th birthday.

reflect on the Royal Commission, and writers have helped us understand what it all means... at times a deeply honest perspective. We have heard the personal and heart wrenching stories of survivors, and I thank them again for allowing Encounter to share their story.

We have discussed contemporary hot topics such as gay marriage and peace in a time where terrorism seems to plague our news feeds. We have stood together in times of trial as we faced the June 2015 floods.

Of significant note, and more recently, we have praised and thanked Bishop Greg for his legacy as our Bishop. It has been a pleasure for me to have the opportunity to interview Bishop Greg for both his first and last story for Encounter.

This edition we have heard reflections of the editors of Encounter, but I would like to take this time to thank the many people who help us get Encounter into the parishes each month - because we certainly couldn't do it alone.

I have an amazing group of ladies who proof-read each edition - Kath, Pat, Barbara, Judith and Pam - your passion for the written word is phenomenal and ensures Encounter is of a high standard each month.

October 2016: Throughout 2016 many editions of Encounter focused the Facing the Past, Shaping a Healthy Future.

I have worked with an inspiring group of people throughout my editorship on the editorial committee, including publishers the Rev'd Murray Woolnough and the Rev'd David Battrick, Robyn, Kath, Rachel, Sally and Emma. Thank you for being patient with me as I strived to understand theology and developing editorial with me.

I thank Bishop Greg and Bishop Peter for guiding me in themes and content for Encounter and giving me this opportunity to share my passion for journalism and storytelling with the diocese.

Thank you to all the contributors who continuously send thought-provoking, humorous, inspiring, memorable and high-quality stories, reflections and articles. You are Encounter. I also send my thanks to the many printers, distributors, advertisers, and supporters.

And most importantly I thank you - the readers - for believing in Encounter and for sending me your feedback and praise.

My hope is that Encounter will continue to grow and thrive in the future and that in 50 years the editor will celebrate 100 years of the story of Encounter!

February 2017: We spoke to four remarkable women as we celebrated the 30th Anniversary of women being ordained in the diocese.

June 2017: Encounter looked back at the remarkable ministry of Bishop Greg Thompson with praise and thanks.

15

THINKING ABOUT FAITH

Golden Age is God's Future THE REV'D BRYCE AMNER PRIEST IN CHARGE GEORGETOWN

"As we follow Jesus, as we work together with God to create the future, we'll see surprises. It certainly won't be boring."

It's been hard to be optimistic lately.

In the Anglican church – at least in Newcastle, a lot of the news has been bad, or at least threatening.

Because of this, we've felt most at home when we've been looking backwards – when we gave thanks for Bishop Greg's ministry, or when we celebrated the Cathedral's anniversary.

But looking into the past isn't easy either. That's where a lot of the bad news has come from – the Royal Commission is forcing us to face the past with honesty rather than nostalgia.

But earlier this year, the Primate, Archbishop Philip Freier, wrote something which I think is particularly relevant and helpful. He was writing to the parishes of Melbourne, but his words are true for us as well: "Our 'golden era' is the time of the coming kingdom of Christ, not a golden age of the past."

The Archbishop has touched a nerve here. Almost all of us begin to look back at our youth as a "golden age" once we reach our 40s. As we grow older, the nostalgia deepens. In an organisation like the Anglican Church this nostalgia is amplified, and comes to dominate our present.

The standard operating procedure for Anglican churches is to do the same thing we've always done, year in, year out. I know of parishes where the "Mission Action Plan" is simply a list of all the activities the parish is currently doing (usually without success), with the intention of continuing them indefinitely. Most people wouldn't consider this sort of thing a valid plan for the future. But we justify this refusal to change by telling ourselves, "Any day now it's

16

going to start working again, just like it did in the 50s!"

The 50s and 60s were a golden age – for Australia, and the church.

The global economy was booming.

In Australia the suburbs were expanding, the churches were thriving, and children and young people were in Sunday school, or CEBS and GFS. Many of the churches and parishes around our Diocese were established in that period. Often their architecture reflects the Modernistic optimism of the time.

But what we've learned more recently is that for many people that golden age was anything but golden. That time when churches were full was also when children were being abused on a frightening scale. If there's one thing the Royal Commission has taught us, it's that trying to go back to the past is simply not an option. It's almost as if God is using the Royal Commission to tell us: "Stop looking backwards, turn around and face the front!"

But God doesn't just want us to turn away from the past. I believe God wants us to stop relying on the past. Many of our churches, and the Diocese as a whole, rely on income from investments. In many cases these are assets accumulated during the "golden age" of the 50s and 60s.

We might call them "the savings of the fathers". As a Diocese, we are currently paying compensation to the victims of abuse. We're paying for "the sins of the fathers". I believe that as we use "the savings of the fathers" to pay for "the sins of the fathers", we're seeing intergenerational justice. This is how, in a financial sense, we "face the past" so that we can create a healthy future. A future

where we rely on God, rather than investments from the past.

That sort of future sounds scary, and uncertain. What makes it so scary, is where the past and future actually exist.

The past exists in our memories. It's in our heads. It's written down in our documents, or bank statements. We feel safe and secure in the past, because it's our past. We know the past. It's under our control. The past belongs to us.

That's why we find the future scary.

It doesn't belong to us. We don't know the future. We're not in control of the future – God is. And we can find it very hard to trust God with our future.

Nobody knows the future. But if we try and huddle in the past, then one day the future is going to come and give us a big surprise, and probably not in a good way.

On the other hand, if we trust God with our future, then God says: "Follow me, and let's do this together". God doesn't just want us to sit and wait for the future to happen to us. God invites us to help create God's future.

As we follow Jesus, as we work together with God to create the future, we'll see surprises. It certainly won't be boring. We'll be surprised when we see God acting. We'll be surprised when we see what we're capable of when we work with God. And eventually, we'll notice that things are starting to look a bit golden. Not like the "golden age" of the 50s and 60s. But golden like the coming kingdom of Christ.

This article is based on the Rev'd Bryce Amner's speech at his recent commissioning as Priest in Charge of St Matthew's Georgetown.

MEET THE ORDINANDS

Meet the Ordinands 2017 SARAH DULLEY WHICH PARISH ARE YOU IN?

Muswellbrook WHERE WERE YOU BORN?

I was born in Brisbane while my parents were on holiday.

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

My early years were spent in small rural communities in western Queensland where my father was the parish priest. We moved to Brisbane in the early 80s.

WHAT ARE YOU READING AT THE MOMENT?

Daniel Migliore – Faith Seeking Understanding (with a little Richard North Patterson thrown in when I can).

DID YOU HAVE A CAREER BEFORE CONSIDERING JOINING THE PRIESTHOOD?

WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?

I have been a teacher for the past 23 years.

I began as a primary music teacher, moved into Special Education and am currently a Learning Support Teacher.

Our beautiful daughter Georgia and our two naughty puppies Lily and Molly.

HOW DID YOU COME TO REALISE YOUR VOCATION WAS AS A PRIEST?

WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL?

I went to St Margaret's Anglican Girls School in Brisbane.

Working towards building inclusive communities.

It's been a gradual process that has taken over 20 years. Coming from a family with my father as a priest, I decided that one priest was enough. When I married Scott, who then became a priest, two was definitely enough. However, the subtle persistent call and awakening of the Spirit, along with gentle encouragement from our bishop, my spiritual director and friends to discern the nature of my vocation, have brought me to this point.

WHICH TRAITS DO YOU MOST VALUE IN PEOPLE?

WHAT DOES THE PRIESTHOOD MEAN TO YOU?

Honesty, integrity, vitality and passion.

For me, priesthood is participating fully in the creative and transformative nature of God. To offer myself as a person who

WHAT'S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR PARENTS?

Hospitality and generosity of spirit.

ARE YOU AN INTROVERT OR AN EXTROVERT?

Introvert.

WHAT IS YOUR PASSION?

will serve, assist and enable others through the ministry of the sacraments to live into who they are called to be, by teaching and living the Gospel message, equipping the body of Christ to go out and live lives that are whole and life giving, and to embody God's healing love here on earth.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST ABOUT BEING AN ORDAINED PRIEST/DEACON?

Fully living into who I am as a person.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO FINDS THEMSELVES CALLED TO THE PRIESTHOOD?

Listen carefully to the Spirit within you, speak with learned friends, and take every opportunity to experience and observe priestly ministry in all manifestations.

"For me, priesthood is participating fully in the creative and transformative nature of God. To offer myself as a person who will serve, assist and enable others through the ministry of the sacraments."

17

SOCIAL JUSTICE

National Disability Insurance Scheme KEVIN PATON SOCIAL JUSTICE TASK FORCE MEMBER/SAMARITANS Are you aware of the National Disability Insurance Scheme? The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was enacted by the Australian Parliament in 2013 (NDIS Act). This Act had strong community support, traced back to a significant event in 2008 when advocates at the 2020 Summit were able to place disability reform on the national agenda. The National Disability and Carers Alliance was formed from key National peak organisations resulting in the Every Australian Counts Campaign (2011) and reports from the Productivity Commission backed the introduction of a new disability support program.

The Newcastle area was included as one of three trial sites commencing July 2014. In the years since, additional areas have been added with the intention of full national coverage by 2018.

Once people are entered into the scheme through an eligibility process, initial interviews and the development of a plan is undertaken with Planners at a regional National

18

Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) office.

This can be a somewhat daunting task when first starting out, but there are key groups and resources available to assist in this process.

There have been a number of changes to the implementation of the NDIS and planning, so having current information is crucial. There are some links following this article to assist you to contact relevant services.

What is clear from those entering the NDIS is that the best outcomes occur when people have prepared for the plans and are as clear as possible about the full needs of those living with disability. This means ensuring that you have developed goals that you can show are both "reasonable and necessary" to ensure enhanced independence and appropriate supports. This also means adding in the equipment, travel, hours of support and any additional care/cost needs such as time spent in hospital.

This can seem such a big task at the outset. Money is allocated against

sections of the plans and these are published by the NDIA yearly, the most recent 2017/2018 Price Guide (NSW/VIC/QLD/TAS) found at www. ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-andpayment.html. This guide can also serve as a checklist to consider areas of support and the related funding.

The plans, once developed, go through an approval process and will be reviewed approximately at 10 months following their implementation. This review process is usually conducted by a phone interview. However, it is important to know that you may request an inperson planning review if that better suits or is a key factor in ensuring a better outcome. If circumstances change at any time you can request a review. If you believe the plan doesn't reflect the support requirements or you are concerned about eligibility or other disability related matters please keep the Disability Advocacy NSW service in mind.

EASTER SOCIAL REFLECTION JUSTICE The introduction of the NDIS is also a time of transition and change for the carers who are predominantly parents. There are significant issues that arise as people now have increased opportunities to transfer some of their caring responsibilities and change from shared living arrangements to independent living.

The concern of people placing greater responsibility and care for those they love with other staff and service providers is real. This can be a difficult transition both practically and emotionally with genuine fears for safety, continued care and longterm outcomes. This is particularly evident as parents plan for their own end-of-life, trying to ensure security for the lifetime of those they love.

The support and inclusion of those living with disability within our communities continues to be a significant issue. As a reader of this article you are perhaps not directly connected to the NDIS, so I leave

you with a few of my thoughts and possible challenges: • What is your role as a community member and how might you provide support to those around you who are entering the NDIS? • Are you empathic to the needs and circumstance of those who are caring and supporting their son, daughter or family member in the transition to the NDIS? • As a business and/or community member how might you engage and ensure increased inclusion and valuing of those with disability across our communities?

• How can you better understand the NDIS system to ensure that those you are in contact with as carers, or someone with a disability, are aware of the eligibility requirements, and are supported to ensure they are able to access the system, and more specifically;

•

•

Are there people who speak of their challenges in caring for someone who have not yet connected to the NDIS? Is there particular appropriate support you might provide to an individual or family as they enter the NDIS or review their goals and plans? 

National Disability Insurance Scheme: www.ndis.gov.au Carers NSW: www.carersnsw.org.au Disability Advocacy NSW (DA): 1300 365 085 or www.da.org.au Every Australian Counts: www.everyaustraliancounts. com.au National Disability Services (NDS): www.nds.org.au Samaritans: www.samaritans.org.au

HIROSHIMA SERVICE WITH A DIFFERENCE

BY ZENY GILES Sometimes a change of perspective throws light on an event we have grown used to celebrating in a particular way. Hiroshima Day, usually commemorated by Newcastle Christians for Peace with a dawn service in the grounds of Christ Church Cathedral, will be held this year on August 6 at an Evensong Service in Christ Church Cathedral at 6pm.

To further help us to consider this anniversary, which commemorates the dropping of nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, we are fortunate that the Rev'd Myung Hwa Park, moderator of the Uniting Church, is visiting Newcastle to speak to us. She brings many gifts to her work as a church leader in Australia. Born in Korea in a Buddhist household, she went on after her conversion to Christianity to work in the mission field in Pakistan and was involved particularly with the care of handicapped children.

The Rev'd Myung Hwa Park began theological training in Australia,

studying at the United Theological College in 1988, and was ordained as a Uniting Church minister in December 1990. She has worked in multicultural communities in Western Sydney bringing to her ministry her skill in languages. She speaks Korean, Urdu, Tongan and English. She has also worked as a chaplain at the Australian National University and the University of Canberra.

The Rev'd Myung Hwa Park writes, "I think the issues relevant for being a church in the 21st Century relate to social justice. The experience and learning different ways of expressing our faith and deepening our faith is very important and we have to be more inclusive and more open."

We look forward to the insights this gifted churchwoman will bring when she speaks to us on Hiroshima Day. The Rev'd David Cole and members of Newcastle Christians for Peace are planning the service helped by Peter Guy and the Christ Church Cathedral Choir. In this continuing climate of war and violence it

is very important that we come together to pray for peace and to have the opportunity of joining with one another after the service in conversation and refreshments. For more information, ring Zeny Giles on 4957 1466. 

19

SAMARITANS

Youth homelessness in Australia A DAY IN THE LIFE

August is the last month of the Samaritans Winter Appeal, raising funds to tackle youth homelessness in the diocese. In light of this appeal and Homelessness Prevention Week from August 7-13 we're exploring home and homelessness.

For most Australians, having a roof over our heads where we can feel safe, with a supportive group of family and friends around us, perhaps even a loving partner, can be easily taken for granted.

We can start to see home as "just home" and for most of us, we're there for part of every day and it never changes; it's stable. We have family who either live with us or are a phone call away, and friends whose company we enjoy and to fall back on when we need them.

20

Now imagine if you were to be stripped of one of these elements of "normal life" that makes you feel comfortable: your bed, your room, your space, your privacy, your house or your family? Could you survive for a day? A week? What if you were deprived of more than one of these things? Or all of them?

Where would you go?

What would you do?

Who would you turn to for help?

For many of us, it's hard to imagine what homelessness in Australia would be like and it's not often we stop to put ourselves in the shoes of someone experiencing homelessness.

To highlight how serious homelessness in Australia is, the following story describes what a typical day in the life of a young homeless person in Australia could be like. Although this particular story is a work of fiction, it is based on the experiences of a young person Samaritans staff had supported and is the type of experience often heard

by Samaritans youth services.

Our story follows a day in the life of Brandon, a 21 year old who left a volatile and sometimes violent family home at 16. Brandon has a young son, Riley and after his girlfriend suffered a severe breakdown in her mental health and kicked him out of the house, he gained sole custody of his son and quickly became a single Dad with nowhere to live.

SAMARITANS 6:09am Waking up on Dave's couch... again.

I'm sure he's sick of me staying here, but I'm scared to ask him about it because he's the last friend who can help me out. This is the ninth house I've couch-surfed already this year.

God it's uncomfortable, but at least it's somewhere warm to stay. Riley seems to like it, at least he can run around in the yard.

7:49am Normal people are probably leaving home to go to their jobs right now.

I enjoyed my job, but when my exbecame unstable and I took sole custody of Riley, I just couldn't figure out a way to manage both. I have no family to guide me or give me advice.

I would happily work if I could; I'd even like to do an apprenticeship or study to learn something new. But it's so hard to find something when I have no one to help me watch Riley.

He's nearly two and I just get stuck in this merry-go-round of trying to find daycare to look for a job, but needing a job to pay for daycare... and how will I ever fit study into all that? I feel so helpless.

11:31am It's not even half way through the day, I just feel I have to get out of here… I miss having my own room, my own TV or my own fridge. And I really want Riley to have his own space. He's so small and just wants to play with everything and be a little kid, but I have to be careful when I'm couch surfing because it's not our house. It's not our stuff. And if he breaks something and Dave asks us to leave, where do we go?

3:17pm Dave will be home soon, I wonder if I should talk to him? I need an option up my sleeve first, are there any friends I haven't stayed with? Hard to think of anyone... there is help with housing for young people who are homeless, but I can't find anything for a single dad. Youth refuges don't allow children and the refuges that do allow children are for women. I've tried about 10 services in the last few months and I just feel like no-one will give me the time of day.

8:40pm Night time is both good and bad. It means tomorrow is another day to maybe find some sort of way out of this mess. But it also means I'm back on the couch, an uncomfortable reminder that nothing I can feel or see belongs to me. I'll be tossing and turning for seven hours of broken sleep worrying about how to be a good example to my son. He is the world to me and I need to show him we can overcome this. I know we can overcome this.

Samaritans has helped many young people in a similar situation to Brandon through their youth casework team, specialist homelessness services and youth accommodation project. Not all of these Samaritans services are government funded and Samaritans youth accommodation project in Wickham Newcastle is completely supported by Samaritans fundraising.

Samaritans Winter Appeal is tackling youth homelessness and raising donations to support projects including the one at Wickham.

Donations are encouraged at www.samaritans.org.au/donate. 

FOSTERING HOPE PETER GARDINER - CEO, SAMARITANS I am always amazed by the work of foster carers who open their homes and their hearts to care for a child or young person without reservation.

Over 43,000 children in Australia are unable to live at home and are taken into out of home care. Foster carers offer a sanctuary of safety and care for these vulnerable children and young people who, more often than not, have experienced a turbulent upbringing.

Today we are seeing an increasing number of children entering out of home care. Statistics from FACS reveal that there has been a staggering 373% increase in children entering the out-of-home-care system over the last 20 years in NSW, representing a growing demand for more foster carers. In NSW alone it is predicted that almost half of the 600 children in the state's Out-of-HomeCare system would benefit from moving immediately into home-based

foster care, as opposed to other temporary models of care. However, with a shortage of foster carers these children are missing out on the stability and normality of living in a home.

There are a number of barriers affecting the recruitment of foster carers today, including the rising cost of living, ageing population and housing affordability. We must work together to address these barriers so that no child or young person is denied the best start in life.

Samaritans is always looking for more short and long-term foster carers to join our team. Taking on a foster carer role is a very big and important commitment; however it is also a highly rewarding one, as highlighted by one of our long term Foster Carers. "We fostered a young man for ten years; there were lots of challenges but also lots of laughter

and love. As a family we would not change that experience for the world – we all grew as people and this special young man will always be in our hearts as one of the family."

Foster Carers come from all walks of life, single, in a relationship, working, studying or retired – what they have in common is that they believe every child or young person deserves a loving supporting home and want to contribute to our community achieving this. All Foster Carers with Samaritans receive financial assistance and ongoing training and support is available 24/7 so we are here for you every step of the journey. Perhaps you might like to consider becoming a Foster Carer, or know someone who may be interested? We would be very happy to hear from you, please visit www.samaritans.org.au for more information or phone Samaritans 4960 7100. 

21

Q&A

What are you grateful for?

THE REV'D CANON MAREE ARMSTRONG RECTOR LAMBTON We have a very dear friend from upstate New York. Kim's catchcry is always, "Sister you need an attitude of gratitude!"

She reminds me when we communicate and when I am feeling low or tired. Reminding me that even part of my life needs to have this attitude. Well... that is easier said than done!

My life has been, up until this point, just an amazing time of opportunities. Travel, one of our passions, has been a blessing. We have had many "God Opportunites" as we have moved around and travelled the world.

I find myself as a bit of a "gather".

Not so much things but people. In many parts of the world I have been able to find people who have stayed friends even though they are from all over.

Jane, from Israel, Thmnie from Cambodia, from Bali, Made and Aji Aji, and a very dear friend Nettie from Turkey, Greece and Egypt as well.

Many parts of the diocese where I have had the privilege of being part of parishes - these too have been a gathering time.

Some have become close friends.

Some of the gathering have even become travelling companions and these are the people who we can "just be ourselves" with.

So much to be grateful for! For these are the ones who keep me grounded, fill our lives with laughter and keep me somewhat sane.

I believe that these people have been in God 's plan, as they seem to come along just at the right time,

22

often when I least expect.

God's timing is perfect (it is only when I get my timing wrong that I miss out).

For example, Kim is from Upper state New York. God's excellent timing allowed us to meet. Kim came from New York to Belmont North to be a godparent for a baptism that I was to officiate at. Her accommodation fell through. So we offered a room at the rectory for the time she was here.

We had only communicated through the parent of the child that was to be baptised and an email, and we had never met, not even spoken.

As it turned out Kim stayed at the rectory, and was able to pass on some wonderful insights to the parish from her parish in Hudson, New York, where she was priest.

We have been friends for over 15 years now and have visited with her twice. Last year we travelled across the middle of USA visiting many churches and congregations, including an Amish community. We went to several worship services including the Hope church in LA. We were warmly welcomed and spoke to the congregation.

About this very subject of gratitude.

We plan to visit again and we

continue our friendship through email and Facebook.

Although we are very different in background, worship style, and theological thinking, we have been able to look and see with gratitude our friendship; a friendship that is still going, still in contact, still growing.

Each opportunity that I have been given is such a gift and the gems are the people and friends we have gathered along the way.

And God's timing is perfect.

We often don't pick up on that rhythm, for many reasons, but God is gracious and there are always other opportunities and other experiences and another person to connect with.

So "Sister - you need an attitude of gratitude" rings in my heart always.

Q&A THE REV'D KESH GOVAN RECTOR NELSON BAY Here are some things I am grateful for. I am grateful for my wife, my greatest fan and most honest critic.

An amazing woman, who is loving and supportive and makes great meat pies!

I am grateful for my parents, who taught me to dream. I am grateful for my friends, who shared my dreams I once dreamed about being Superman. I guess being a Rector comes very close to that!

I am grateful to have a vocation that I love. No two days are the same. Where else can you be an administrator, writer, counsellor, preacher, community organiser, and teacher all at once? And occasionally dress up as Jack Sparrow (Pirates of the Caribbean) to greet visitors to the Bay! I am grateful for cake and coffee: Is there another job you can think of that sees theological worth in chatting with people while eating cake or meeting over a cup of coffee?

I am grateful for clean water to drink and that I don't have to go hungry. I am especially grateful for KFC! I am grateful for access to the internet. I can learn pretty much anything online. I can connect with and get to know people from all around the world (also an opportunity to upload all my 'selfies' to my Facebook page).

I am grateful for laughter. To be able to extract humour from a situation is nothing short of a talent, a gift if you will. To be able to look at something with such an eye that you couldn't help but laugh.

And last but not least, I am grateful to God to be alive. I have this moment and day and hopefully many days still to experience and live my life and that is something to be truly grateful for.

THE REV'D MICHAEL DAVIES RECTOR WOY WOY Having just had a stewardship program in the Parish of Woy Woy, I have cause for gratitude as I reflect on the generosity of God to me and my church family. I've come to a greater appreciation that good stewardship is as much about attitude as action and the need to acknowledge that everything we have is a gift entrusted to us by God. We are not owners but caretakers and overseers of our lives, our family, and the created order of which we are a part.

Having celebrated my third anniversary in Woy Woy, I'm grateful for what we've accomplished in that time and, despite the challenges ahead, look forward with grateful anticipation to what is yet to be realised and achieved. I'm grateful for the enthusiasm for mission at home and abroad, and the willingness of my faith community to give of their time and talents.

My wife Alex, who is an artist, suggested recently that we should make a gift to the parish, as a show of our gratitude, for their encouragement and support of our ministry these past few years. Our gift of four faceted glass panels are to be installed in the chapel at St Luke's Church on completion. Two

of the panels depict the symbols of baptism and eucharist (see picture), the other two images, as yet unfinished, are the Holy Spirit and the Lamb of God. Indeed, it is in giving that we receive!

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9.15).

23

ANGLICAN CARE

Winter Eating Tips for Seniors Winter conjures up visions of colder days and nights, a lack of sunlight, coughs, sniffles and layers of clothes. It also invokes thoughts of snuggling under blankets, warm fires and eating warming comfort foods.

Maintaining a healthy diet in winter can be a challenge to seniors. As we age our body becomes less efficient at absorbing nutrients, our appetite can be affected by the change in season, taste, health condition and medications.

Often healthy eating becomes less of a priority as we desire to stay at home and hibernate. We may opt for convenient comfort foods like pies, pastries, cakes and salty tinned soups, which carry plenty of calories but have little nutritional benefit.

With the onset of winter colds, flu and injuries are at their highest. It is possible however to stay warm and eat for both comfort and health.

"There are steps you can take in the colder months to increase overall energy, boost your immune system and help fight off illness", says Janet Sykes, Nurse Educator at Anglican Care. Janet states that seniors should have at least one hot meal a day, think sweet potato, pasta and rice – all good sources of carbohydrates to give you energy. Stay hydrated, as skin problems such as eczema are

more common in winter, so keep up the water and warm liquids such as hearty soups - try pumpkin or pea and ham on a cold day to really warm you up. Diminish those comfort food cravings by sitting in the sun and dosing up on vitamin D and serotonin.

Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet so you get the nutrients you need such as Vitamin C to ward off winter colds – dark green, red, orange and yellow are all believed to assist in fighting disease. Dairy is important

for bone and muscle health and is a source of vitamin D, whilst meat provides you with protein, vitamins and minerals which repair muscles and keep you well nourished. Janet's advice is to "keep basic food items such as frozen and canned fruit and vegetables in your cupboard or freezer in case weather prevents you from shopping ".

Enjoy this winter, it is the perfect time to share food with loved ones and celebrate the warmth it brings physically and emotionally! 

RECIPE

Pea and Ham Soup INGREDIENTS 290g (1 1/3 cups) green split peas 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 carrots, peeled, chopped 2 sticks celery, trimmed, chopped 1 brown onion, halved, chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed 700g ham or bacon hocks 1.5L (6 cups) cold water Salt & freshly ground black pepper Bread, to serve

24

METHOD 1: Rinse split peas under cold running water until water runs clear. Drain.

2: Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add carrot, celery, onion and garlic, and cook, stirring, for 5 mins or until the onion softens.

3: Add split peas, ham hocks and water. Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 2-2½ hours or until ham hocks are tender and the meat is falling away from the bones. Set aside for 5 mins to cool slightly. Remove ham hocks from pan. Remove the meat from bones. Coarsely chop meat and set aside.

4: Place ¼ of the pea mixture in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth. Return to pan with ham. Repeat with remaining pea mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Stir over medium-high heat for 5 mins or until hot.

5: Ladle soup into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

What's On DIOCESAN CONVENTION Every year the Diocesan Convention has been a high point in the Diocesan Calendar. In 2017 the lead speaker will be Bishop Jeffrey Driver, the former Archbishop of Adelaide.

Bishop Jeffrey will help us explore Shaping a Healthy Future, drawing both on his experience of the Diocese of Adelaide recovering from the shame of sexual abuse and his deep commitment to creative Christian mission.

When he was the Bishop of Gippsland he helped that Diocese

forge a strong relationship with the Anglican Church in Rwanda.

As the Archbishop of Adelaide he helped that Diocese forge a strong relationship with the Anglican Church in Southern Sudan.

Date: Saturday August 12 Time: 9.30am – 4pm Venue: Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College RSVP: By Wednesday August 2 to events@newcastleanglican.org.au or phone 4926 3733.

ANNUAL BLESSING OF OUR LAND The Catholic and Anglican Parishes of the Kurri Kurri and Cessnock areas warmly invite you to the 7th Annual Blessing of Our Land – Walking Together.

As an expression of the Tri-Diocesan Covenant, the Catholic and Anglican Parishes of the Kurri Kurri and Cessnock areas invite people of all Christian Churches, and those who do not belong to any religious group, to this liturgy and picnic.

A shared picnic lunch will follow. BYO everything. Activities will be provided for the children. Pokolbin Community Hall has nice grounds and the hall is modern and well-appointed with a good kitchen and toilet facilities.

Date: Sunday August 27 Time: 11.30am for 12noon Venue: Pokolbin Community Hall, 128 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin RSVP: August 2 to cesparish@ mn.catholic.org.au or 4990 1551.

AW SPRING CELEBRATIONS The first week of September always sees the Spring Celebrations organised by Anglican Women in the various deaneries of the Diocese of Newcastle for everyone who would like to come.

This year the guest speaker will be Brian Holmes from Anglican Overseas Aid, which will be the recipient of the next Thank You Box collection (Sept.

2017-Sep. 2018).

Venue/dates: Monday 4: Manning Deanery at Tuncurry Tuesday 5: Newcastle & Lake Macquarie Deaneries combine at Cardiff Wednesday 6: Upper Hunter at Merriwa Thursday 7: Maitland & Paterson Deaneries at Branxton Friday 8: Central Coast at Wyoming The program: 10am Morning Tea, 10.30am Holy Communion Service, 11.45 Guest Speaker: Brian Holmes, 12.30 Lunch - (BYO or Bring & Share).

Afternoon program.

25

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Bishop's Nomination Board Update At our recent Synod we elected a new Bishop Nomination Board to lead the Diocese in its work of discerning a new Bishop. Specifically, the Board's role, under the new ordinance, is to bring to Synod two to four names of people who could be elected as Bishop of the Diocese.

All members of the Board are deeply honoured with the trust that has been placed in them and committed to serving the Diocesan family well.

Our work began with a Board "retreat". At this overnight event Bishop Peter addressed the Board, and our consultant, the Rev'd Sandy Jones, led us in a training event. The evening concluded with social time – the Board will be working very closely this year and it is important that we get to know each other! At this extended meeting Archdeacon Sonia Roulston was elected as Chair of the Board, and Mrs Katherine Lindsay as Deputy Chair.

In June, consultations were held across the Diocese which will be of great value to the Board in its work.

A big thank you to everyone who made the time to attend. We were overwhelmed (in a good way) with the attendance of 380 people across the five gatherings. The Diocesan Meeting room walls are lined with your responses, and visitors to the office are able to see this great display!

As the year goes on the Bishop Nomination Board will receive nominations, shortlist, interview, and shortlist again, as well as undertaking the normal due diligence checks.

If everything goes to plan then we hope this will bring us to a Synod from November 10-12.

Very shortly (as I write this) nominations will open. We ask Synod members to be prayerful as they consider nominations, and for the whole Diocesan family to hold both the Board and our coming election in your prayers. Suggested prayers can be found on the Diocesan website.

Samaritans launches a new digital tool to raise domestic violence awareness Samaritans launched an exciting new app to help drive conversation and awareness for young people around abuse.

The "Oi" mobile app will be an important tool to help young people identify an abusive relationship, access resources and to seek help.

Samaritans operates a number of domestic violence and youth services in the community.

This resource, available to download on both iOS and Android platforms, will equip young people to ask for help, support a friend or realise that their relationship might not be a healthy one.

Visit www.oiapp.org.au to learn more or download Oi in the App Store or on Google Play today.

26

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Ordinations to the Diaconate 2017 On June 30 Amanda Brockwell, Greg Colby, Melinda McMahon, and Helen Quinn were ordained Deacon at Christ Church Cathedral. Amanda is currently based in Dungog parish, Greg in Belmont parish, Melinda is part of the chaplaincy team at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College, and Helen in the parish of Forster–Tuncurry.

We are the Church of the Holy Spirit Lakes Anglican Church, Kanwal has had a very recent makeover. Drawing from their full title, the surrounding region and the talent of Di Hoath from Devine by Design, Lakes Anglican is now represented in art.

A mural spanning the Western end wall of the worship space tells of their identity. "The Cross reminds us of our Salvation in Christ," Rev'd Tim Waghorn, Senior minister at Lakes Anglican writes. "The Holy Spirit in the form of the dove reminds us what gives us our name and spiritual power. The lighthouse and waterfront reminds us where we are in the world," he said.

"Newcastle is a large diocese, and well, we are the 'Coasties' part of this Church family".

Through a generous gift left in trust by the Jeans' family, the mural was made possible, and through the artistic talents of Di Hoath, the dream became reality for the congregations at Lakes Anglican.

Leave a gift in your will to the Church

Once you have made provision for your loved ones, you have the opportunity to make a lasting gift to God, by leaving a bequest to his church.

A gift in your Will is one of the most valuable and lasting ways you can continue to support its mission and ministry within your community.

Contact Linda Wilson at the Diocesan Office for more information on 4926 3733.

27

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Celebrating and Renewing the Tri-Diocesan Covenant 2017 The Ecumenical Service of Worship to renew the Tri-Diocesan Covenant was held at the beautiful St Luke's Anglican Church, Wallsend on Tuesday May 23.

The service was jointly led by Bishop Peter Stuart, Bishop Bill Wright and Father Colin Blaney (present on behalf of Bishop Peter Comensoli).

A congregation of up to 90 people from our Anglican community and neighbouring Catholic dioceses gathered to celebrate our common baptism and commitment to prayer.

90th Birthday Celebrations at Coopernook Parish On June 11 Mrs Lillian Joyce Smith (nee McBroom), known as Joyce, celebrated her 90th birthday in the Coopernook Anglican Church Hall.

She was surrounded by many members of her family and friends from near and far. We are sure the celebrations will continue on.

Joyce was baptised, confirmed and married in the 130 year old Coopernook church. She enjoyed a lovely afternoon of good food, fellowship and reminiscing about the old days.

Professional • Experienced • Competitive

• Conveyancing & Commercial • Wills, Probate & Estates • Family Law & Criminal Law • Driving Offences etc Phone: 4954 7288 25 Marianne St, Cardiff email: admin@warlandsolicitors.com.au

28

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Celebrating Confirmations at Cessnock Cessnock Anglican Church held a Confirmation service with 12 Confirmees and one adult received into communicant membership. Dulcie Caddis from Cessnock Anglican Church received the Jean Arnott award at Parliament House in Sydney and of all nominated, Dulcie was chosen to cut the cake. A special privilege for being 90 years of age.

Refugee Children at All Saints' Church, Morisset For over 20 years some of the parishioners of All Saints', Morisset have been involved with camps and lunches for refugee children.

All the children have been accepted by the Australian Government as genuine refugees. Often they have come to Australia to escape religious persecution in their own country.

Over the years, the church has hosted children from a number of countries including Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Iran, Sudan, Ethiopia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

The latest group of 20 came

for lunch last month. This time, they were all boys from Vietnam and Cambodia. They have been referred to the Sydney Indo Chinese Refugee Support Group by school counsellors as needing help with assimilation into Australia.

Often they need help with the English language or with the cultural differences which they have experienced.

All Saints' Church, as part of its social outreach program, plays a small part by showing support, hospitality and understanding to these children.

Pictured: The Rev'd Glen Pope, Jeanette Deaves (youth worker and counsellor), Tri Vu and two children

29

AROUND THE DIOCESE

NAIDOC Week Celebrations 2017 An interfaith NAIDOC Week celebration was held at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Sunday July 2.

The event began with a smoking ceremony in which an Awabakal elder invited people to walk through the smoke as they entered the cathedral while listening to the didgeridoo sounds. After a small procession, an ecumenical liturgy unfolded where we listened to different Aboriginal stories. We were blessed with water as clapping sticks resonated in the background.

Fr Chris Jackson said, "Your languages matter. The stories we have heard matter. The blessing we have received matters."

Photos and article thanks to the Catholic Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle.

Responding to sexual abuse in the church: The need for cultural conversion Dr Don Owers was rector of the parish of St George's Magill in Adelaide's eastern suburbs when the CEBS scandal of rampant child sexual assault exploded there in the early 1990s.

It eventually led to the resignation of the Archbishop and a change in career direction for Don as he struggled to cope with and effectively influence the church's reaction to what had happened.

Whilst many of the responses in Australian Anglican dioceses affected by child sexual assault have focused on improved child protection measures and, at least at Diocesan level, a commitment to justice and the need for empathetic understanding of the impact on survivors, there has been less emphasis on the vicarious impact of the abuse on the churches themselves and the changes in attitudes and practice that would benefit both them and survivors.

Don and others have identified the need for a cultural conversion in our churches where informed healing responses to survivors are deeply embedded into the culture of the church. Don believes that genuine and committed dialogue between survivors, advocates and church leaders offers an opportunity for new knowledge to be created and the emergence of new capacities for response and healing for survivors and the church.

We in the Diocese of Newcastle will have an opportunity to hear Don's story and reflect on his ideas for shaping a healthy future on Sunday September 3, which as well as being Fathers' Day marks the start of Child Protection Week.

Don will be speaking following a shortened Evensong at 6pm at Christ Church Cathedral, followed by questions and supper.

Prepay your funeral with Australia’s leading funeral plan.

It makes sense to prepay a funeral with Australia’s leading prepaid funeral plan. Protect loved ones financially by paying a funeral in today’s prices.

Speak to our professional local staff to learn more about how being involved in your own goodbye will benefit you and your family.

A Guardian Funeral Provider

All Areas

1300 662 172

��������� � ������� � ��������� � �������

davidlloydfunerals.com.au G7396071AA-030215

30

AROUND THE DIOCESE

AWA Conference: Anglican women in a time of change - looking to the future It was a time of great fellowship, worship and learning as women from various parts of NSW, Australia, the US and South Africa, attended the Provincial Anglican Women Australia (AWA) Conference, hosted by AW Newcastle, from June 5-8 at Club Macquarie, Argenton. Their theme was "Thanksgiving for the Ministry of Women".

Following the annual Anglican Women's Service at the Cathedral on the Tuesday, conference members visited the Mission to Seafarers at Wickham.

Wednesday saw 43 local women join with the 32 full time members for the day, meeting and listening to many

amazing women who serve God in many ways.

On the Thursday the AGM of AWA was held, with reports from the three dioceses where AWA is still active – Bathurst, Riverina and Newcastle, with apologies from Canberra & Goulburn.

The evenings provided time for fellowship over dinner, and after dinner entertainment with bush poet, Bob Bush of Tea Gardens, on Monday, following an interesting talk by Bishop Kay Goldsworthy on her years of ministry and her path to ordination as deacon, priest and bishop.

On Wednesday evening we heard of a very different way in which a most inspiring woman is serving God, as Sergeant Debra Rowe shared fascinating stories, some humorous, some tragic, of her time in of the NSW Police Force.

She went on to share some of her faith journey – of how God has worked in her life, and how he leads and inspires her, as she looks ahead to her "retirement". It was this story that moved many of us to tears, and made a fitting conclusion to a very special conference.

Anglican women service: giving thanks for the ministry of women On June 6 the annual Anglican Women's Service was held at Christ Church Cathedral, in conjunction with the State Anglican Women Australia Conference.

In her sermon Archdeacon Sonia Roulston said, "We give thanks not only for public ministries, but also for the often unseen and yet essential ministries of so many women in our churches – as Sunday School teachers, GFS, children's ministry, and youth group leaders, organists, choristers, cleaners. Those who arrange the flowers, wash linen, work in catering guilds and op shops, type newsletters, welcome people to church, serve morning tea, visit the

elderly and sick, and more recently have joined those teams serving at the altar. We give thanks for the many women who have taken their place in church life, often quietly and humbly, and who have been a force for good." This was shown visually by the symbols of ministry brought forward and placed before the altar.

The Eucharist was con-celebrated by Bishop Peter Stuart and Bishop Kay Goldsworthy, Bishop of Gippsland.

After the service Bishop Kay spoke on women's ministry, looking to this theme. She spoke on women as teachers, as the hope of the community and how we should face

the future in the Spirit's power and how God's faith shines forth and how we need to change NOW in these times of never ending changes.

After lunch the Rev'd Diane Langham, Chaplain of Cessnock Gaol, spoke of her 18 years as priest and chaplain, and of her Aboriginal heritage. She is widely called "Mum" or "Auntie Di", with a clear message that she is loved by the inmates. She told us of the many facets of her job, in and out of the gaol. A wife, mother, grandmother and priest, as well as rearing three of her grandchildren, she is an amazing lady in a very difficult position.

31

32