OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015 FREE
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
THE STORIES BEHIND THE MISSIONS OF THE DIOCESE BOTH NATIONAL AND ABROAD BISHOP GREG
CROSSING THE BOUNDARIES
SCHOOL SCRIPTURE It's A Good Thing BREAKING THE SILENCE on Domestic Violence
IMAGINING THE FUTURE 1
IN THIS EDITION 2 Bishop Greg: Crossing Boundaries 4
Reflections: Imagining the Future
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Life of an Archdeacon
6 Topics 8
Mission Accomplished
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School Scripture: It's A Good Thing
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Break the Silence on Domestic Violence
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Freedom Sunday
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Thinking About Faith: God, Gays & Marraige
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Stephen Pullin: Thank You & Farewell
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Spirited Generosity
21 Insights: Samaritans Chaplaincy 22 Facing the Past, Shaping a Healthy Future 24
Around the Diocese
30 Puzzle Book Review 31 Recipe Dates for Your Diary Back Cover: Weekend of Prayer 2015
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Syrian refugees strike at the platform of Budapest Keleti railway station. Refugee crisis. Budapest, Hungary, Central Europe, 4 September 2015.
CROSSING BOUNDARIES The tidal wave of humanity arriving by boats, lorries and by foot into Europe seeking sanctuary from the devastation of war and famine is gut wrenching to watch from a distance. The political and cultural boundaries are shifting, while overwhelming need confounds us. Yet we are called to respond as the Good Samaritan did to the stranger that is on our path. When we read Jesus arrived by boat to Gennesaret (Mark 6:53-56) he is confronted by an overwhelming throng of sick people who want healing from him. On the western side of Lake Galilee nearest to Jerusalem and closest to orthodoxy, there are a lot of sick people. However Mark records this great crowd confronting Jesus for help with the religious leaders confronting Jesus over his disciples' failure to follow the orthodox practice of handwashing (Mark 7:1-8). They are worried not out of concern for the hygiene of the sick but over the ritual handwashing in order to remain religiously pure. They are immobilised by the religious and cultural boundaries and miss seeing the need of the sick crowd who seek help. "Handwashing" has many layers to it for people of faith and for people who carry responsibility in civic and political life. Are we
PRODUCTION TEAM
worried over the real issues of our time or are we preoccupied with appearances only? Could our cultural habits and thinking immobilise us from attending to the mission in our community or in our world? Washing was on the Darwin TV news a few years ago. I was watching a Northern Territory Aboriginal priest washing visitors' heads at a billabong. Knowing there were crocodiles in that area I wondered what this "washing" of non Aboriginal people was really about. They were non Aboriginal outsiders who wanted to do research in Arnhemland. The priest was the first Aboriginal woman in her community to be ordained, which traditionally would have only been exercised by men. In this washing ritual she exercised a priestly leadership in helping outsiders to engage the spiritual in the place and a traditional responsibility to welcome people whom she did not know into her country. She conveyed her authority with dignity, gentleness and with an acute reading for what was needed in that occasion where two worlds collided. Effective leadership will not readily have answers for complex moments but good leadership will help transcend the
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Women and children among Syrian refugees striking at the platform of Budapest Keleti railway station. Refugee crisis. Budapest, Hungary, Central Europe, 4 September 2015.
BISHOP GREG THOMPSON bishopgreg@newcastleanglican.org.au divisions of people by making a way for genuine shared understanding in order for the common good to be achieved. The recent Diocesan Convention and Leaders' Conference introduced people and clergy to the way we may speak together on the matters that capture our vocation and ministry and set out how we may make a way forward into a healthy future. Potent tradition anchored in Christ which includes ritual will do that too. However when orthodoxy (right believing) is preoccupied with social conformity while confronted by suffering then orthopraxis (right acting) will not offer transformative acts of mercy and justice. I am very pleased that parish communities are seeking to develop ritual that enables survivors of abuse to find expression in liturgy and give voice to their stories. Mark's gospel records Jesus as a person of his Jewish faith, time and of his country, yet he is not captured by his tradition. The first half of Mark's Gospel takes place in Galilee with the Sea of Galilee at its centre. Jesus and his disciples in Mark 4:35 embark on the first of several journeys to the "other side" of this Sea. Everything east of the Jordan River is Gentile territory, symbolising everything alien and hostile to the Jewish population west of the Sea. The crossings in Mark's gospel emphasise that despite the "otherness" of these people, Jesus' ministry is to bring the liberating Good News to the "other side". In Jesus' day outward conformity to the tradition had disconnected itself from the spirituality which was found in responsive hearts to the God of Abraham, Moses and Isaac. Prophets had emerged in the earlier history of Israel to remind them of God who seeks responsive hearts. The prophet Micah (Micah 6:8) said God
isn't interested in extravagant religious ceremonies when there is no mercy, justice and humility. This is why Jesus said to the Pharisees and scribes, "You abandoned the commandment of God and hold to human tradition " (Mark 7:8). When the "form" of religion no longer mediates the spirit which brought it into being then ritual purity no longer provides wisdom or health. When what we believe is disconnected from how we live, we subvert the very thing we say we are upholding. In traditional remote Aboriginal communities practices can emerge that uncouple ritual from the spirit by exercising destructive power over others. Usually in times when men have lost status and respect, ritual becomes the means for reasserting authority by calling upon curses, sorcery, punishment and expulsion when someone fails to follow tradition. On my many visits to Aboriginal communities I encountered great faith by local leaders but heard ongoing concern over dealing with curses in communities under stress. In shaping a healthy future in Newcastle Diocese we have been on a journey to recognise the abuse within traditional leadership and to allow conversations which ensure integrity in our church and ministry. Such historic abuse wasn't because of tradition but because an environment within that tradition allowed people to breach sexual boundaries and they were protected when they committed these heinous crimes against children. St Augustine described sin as incurvatis in se – "a turning in on one's self". Rather than opening up to God and to the Spirit at work, people turn inwards and away from what brings life with God. Communities and cultures also may turn in on themselves to protect from all kinds
of external threat, but inevitably such defensive posture may lead to greater decline because the culture hasn't allowed itself to be examined and tested for authenticity. The Royal Commission into Institutional Response to Sexual Abuse of Children has been the necessary God-inspired circuit breaker on institutional culture that has refused to be examined and remained resistant to those who have been the most vulnerable in our society. I hope its search will include the current treatment of asylum seeker children in detention centres. Richard Rohr contemplative and activist said "We don't think ourselves into a new way of living; we live ourselves into a new way of thinking". It begins in the heart that either we desire to live life with God's love or we turn to self justification for the hates and harms we wish to perpetrate on those who are not like us - First Australians, migrants, asylum seekers and abuse survivors among them. In Jesus' life we see someone who brings the Good News across his religious, social and cultural landscape. He is the one who can cross the boundaries while not destroying the identity of people or harming the community, but liberating people to live as children of God. He had a responsive compassion to stand with people in their plight. As a community of faith, may we continue to face the past and shape a healthy future by crossing the boundaries that close us off from the Spirit of God or draw us away from the deep work of life in Christ. +Greg
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IMAGINING THE FUTURE BISHOP PETER STUART bishoppeter@newcastleanglican.org.au We face an exceptionally complex future as a movement and institution committed to the theological and spiritual quest in Australia. There is no policy manual or guide book which provides a recipe for ensuring a vibrant Anglican contribution to the Australian social and religious landscape. We come to this work as people who with heart, soul, strength and mind have responded to God's invitation to invest ourselves in God's mission of love and hope for the universe. We have sensed God's goodness and grace and our hearts desire is that others may come to know God's deep love and deep peace.
Over the last few years we have learnt both that some of our traditional practices continue to work well as do some contemporary practices. It makes a difference when congregations build relationships and show they care for people regularly in church, visiting church and members of the community known to be in need. It makes a difference when we put time and energy into families and young people. Research from the Church of England indicates that there are 8 core ingredients which make a difference to church growth.
religious faith than men that had changed. That is the emerging trend in Australia with research indicating that young women are now no more religious than young men. As I travel around the Diocese I am deeply moved by the faithfulness of so many people. With generosity of money and time they work to ensure that the Christian Faith in the way we have received it as Anglicans, continues to make a mark on their local communities. We have amazing people who for 50, 70, 90 years and more have been part of the Body of Christ, who have celebrated good clergy and made the best of bad clergy, who have adapted to many changes and indicate they will continue to do so. They are committed to Christ and his church.
Our complex task is to imagine the things we need to do next that will enable our distinct Christian witness to continue. I suspect that we must be ready to work in regions or part of regions rather than work parish by parish. Imagine combining our income and coming up with some different staffing models. I think we will need creative partnerships with those who work with older people so that our care for the elderly is truly care of the highest standard. Anglican Care is committed to identifying the very best practices in spiritual care for people who make home in their facilities and in the community. I envisage that we will need to find ways of engaging school communities outside classrooms. There will likely be a time when our opportunity to teach matters of faith in our state schools will end. Our imagining will need to see how we will minister to the schools when that time comes.
This Mission Action Planning process is inviting us from "the bottom up" to explore opportunities and partnerships. It is inviting us to explore a creative difference in each community. +Peter The majority of parishes in the Diocese which have taken insights from the UK research seriously report that the strategies make a difference. English experience has shown that Mission Action Planning has been beneficial. It is no surprise that dioceses like Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra-Goulburn and Newcastle are emphasising the critical place of Mission Action Plans.
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There is an important caution to this work. It would seem that the English context may be easier than the Australian. English research in 2001 indicated that 62% of young Britons describe themselves as Christian. In addition, there were people affirming faith in other religions. Australian research a few years later revealed that just over half of those aged between 13 and 24 said they believed in God (51%), the majority of those considering themselves Christian. It is also interesting to learn that while research in England indicated that in previous generations women were more likely to be active in
LIFE OF AN ARCHDEACON LAKE MACQUARIE BY THE VEN WENDY DUBOJSKI ARCHDEACON OF LAKE MACQUARIE As I sit down to write about what is happening in Lake Macquarie Archdeaconry, I have been confronted with the fact that we as Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, that is, the people of God in this place and period of time are diverse. We come from all corners of the globe, we come with variety views of the Church and with different understandings of how things should happen and what the Church should look like in our time. But what of the future. How do we, from this space allow the church to become what she will become in the future? Bishop Greg was so right when he challenged us to move from comfort to safe uncertainty. You know where ever you travel within Lake Macquarie you can be assured of panoramic views of the bush or dramatic scenes of the oceans or peaceful vistas of the lake. But it is the people of Lake Macquarie Archdeaconry that are most amazing and the groups that are the most astounding thing about this Archdeaconry, are the exceptional clergy and extraordinary laity. I have been around the church a long time and it is rare to come across people who are willing to learn to interact and even evaluate their effectiveness as a community but that's what's happening as each of the parishes engage in Mission Action Planning. Our Archdeaconry is
coming to understand that if everyone participates, supports and listens, if we share the vision, if we stand in solidarity with each other, great things could be achieved. As we cease being satellites that orbit each other and begin sharing ideas, knowledge and resources, we will achieve collectively, synergies that individual parishes would not be able to produce on their own. As some know, I believe that our future for the Church depends on us working together or collaborating. The beauty of collaboration, is that it will generate more creative solutions for the Church into the future. Some of the best ideas are birthed by two seemingly unrelated ideas that come together at a creative moment. Although we can't control which or, when these moments will be, we can create a relational environment in which ideas are allowed to dance together. We are all called in the New Testament toward collaboration and co-operation. This style of leadership does not compromise authority, but reflects the beautiful mutual submission that the Bible calls us to live in. I think Professor Robert Crosby framed collaboration wonderfully by suggesting that collaboration vertically honours God
while horizontally empowering others. Belmont North and Redhead Charlestown Parishes have entered this vertical and horizontal collaboration with no model for the process. It wasn't designed on any preconceived agenda and will develop its own course of action and outcomes. It began as many exceptional things do with a discussion that lead to a very simple ministry covenant built on relationship, respect, laughter and several meals together. Collaboration has offered both parishes the opportunity to behave differently and co-operatively; it is beneficial as it builds trusting relationships and social capital. It involves low degrees of co-operation such as information exchange and better co-ordination but into the future I hope that we have high degrees of interaction that create commonality, with shared dreams and cohesion.
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TOPICS
TRUST AND CANOES RECREATE 2 When promoting the Recreate2, the second Recreate camp organised by the diocese of Newcastle, I was aware that I was asking a lot. Working families today no longer enjoy a clock-on clock-off approach to the world of work. An uncertain job market, difficult housing markets and high interest loans mean that families find themselves time and energy poor. More often than not, time with friends and family is sacrificed. So to ask people to invest time and money in a families camp, perhaps with people they haven't met before – and Christian ones at that – seemed like a tall order! But I was wrong, it was great to see families bucking the trend and signing up. With a 17% increase in the number of attendees from last year, it was a reassuring sign that this community is a growing one. Set against the sublime backdrop of Wallis Lake and surrounded by Booti Booti National Park, Camp Elim is a great place to see that God is a genius! The view across the lake is just breathtaking, and what better way to enjoy it than in a canoe – just one of the activities on offer in the 4-hour instructor- led activities on Saturday afternoon. Archery, giant swing, climbing wall and raftmaking kept everyone, young and old, very active for hours. Worship sessions were diverse and fulfilling, with all ages finding an expression of worship in the styles represented. Peter Oates was our guest speaker, giving us some great ideas for shaping a Christian family. Rob Woolfrey, Youth Worker at St John's Cooks Hill, ran a fantastic kids program whilst the adults enjoyed the workshops. Jane Sinclair coordinated the crèche for under 3s, keeping them more than happy with stories, painting and all sorts of activities. Will Johnston and Liz Robinson did a great job with the teens and tweens. For me the weekend became an exercise in trust. As I was belaying for my seven year old son, I was impressed that he trusted me.
Perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised – children are supposed to trust their parents. But to trust is such an important thing, as Neal Roese puts it: "Trust is the essential glue that holds interpersonal relationships together." Our children are trusting us to guide them through life, and the weekend became an elegant, simple way to demonstrate the trust we have in our biological families, church families and God. So just as the parents who handed over hard-earned cash to take part in the weekend trusted that it was the right thing to do, children trusted their parents belaying for them whilst they climbed a 30ft wall. The weekend was sublime, messy, loud, quiet, ordered and chaotic; full of life's contradictions. It was these contradictions that made the weekend epic and fulfilling. I know I'm not the only one who had a great time and I was so glad I put in the effort to get my family there. We were rewarded with fantastic memories, enlightening conversation and a sense that we were in exactly the right place at the right time! By Rachel Yates.
THE ENCOUNTER WINS THREE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
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The 2015 Australasian Religious Press Association (ARPA) held their annual Awards for Excellence during August in which publications from the year 2014 were judged in categories for publishing, writing, and design and creativity. The Encounter was recognised for three categories including Silver for Best Regional Publication, Bronze for Best Feature (Multiple Authors) and Highly Commended for Best Cover. Why This Matters: A Different Christmas Story (December 2014) recognises the contribution of Julianne McLeod, Rick McCosker, the Rev'd Roger Zohrab, the Rev'd Cameron Freese and
editor Louise Mackay for their "reflections on the Christmas season, which bring a grounded realism and poignancy to the season's festivities, while pointing people to the hope that undergirds the meaning of Christmas". The August 2014 edition received Highly Commended in the Best Cover category, which featured photography by Roslyn Sharp. "Strong imagery which draws you into the picture. I like the feeling of the church holding the person in safety." Congratulations to all involved in the success of the publication.
In This Editio
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In Search
of home Bishop Greg Speaks on hom
elessness
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GeneraL SYno D reflections from adelaide
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homeLeSSneS S We can’t affor d to Ignore
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CMS COASTAL MISSION DAY
SAMARITANS CEO, CEC SHEVELS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT Cec Shevels, well-known social justice commentator and advocate, has announced his retirement plans. During his 25 years with Samaritans, Cec's passion and wealth of knowledge has seen the organisation grow significantly. Today a thriving Samaritans operates over 100 support services across six regions throughout NSW and employs some 700 staff. The Right Rev'd Dr Peter Stuart, Assistant Bishop of Newcastle and Chair of Samaritans board, said,"Cec has made an outstanding contribution to people's welfare and social justice in the Hunter, Manning and Central Coast regions for 25 years. His leadership within the Anglican Church and the wider community is very highly regarded. He has made an immense difference to so many people." Cec Shevels will commence his retirement at the end of January 2016. A national Executive Search will commence shortly for his successor.
HUNTER CHRISTIAN SRE ON FACEBOOK Hunter Christian SRE (Scripture) is now on Facebook. Please head over to the new page and click Like to show your support of Christian SRE in the Hunter area. Search "Hunter Christian SRE".
The Central Coast region is holding the 7th Annual CMS Coastal Mission Day (CMD) on Saturday October 17. This year CMD will be held at EV Church Erina, 331 Terrigal Drive, from 9.30am-2:30pm. This year the focus will be on how God's mission is being worked out in some of the hard to reach places of the world. Effective mission has never been easy but some cultures and environments are harder than others and they are not always the most obvious ones. Peter Rodgers, Federal Secretary of CMS Australia, will be speaking to us from the book of 2 Corinthians and Philippians about "Mission in Hard Places". Register online at www.cms.org.au/cmd. It only costs $10 per person.
IN BRIEF Appointments/Commissionings The Rev'd Dr Julia Perry was appointed an Honorary Clerical Canon on July 16 and was installed to the Sawyer Canonry of Christ Church Cathedral on August 9. The Rev'd Robin Lewis-Quinn was appointed Area Dean for the Paterson Deanery on July 14. The Rev'd Dr Fergus King was appointed Co-ordinating Chaplain for University Ministry on behalf of the Anglican Church (Callaghan Campus) in addition to his ministry as Incumbent of the Parish of Kotara South on September 15. The Venerable Canon Sonia Roulston has been appointed Archdeacon of Newcastle (fulltime). Sonia will conclude in the Parish of Morpeth on October 11.
PRIMATE PHILIP FREIER WELCOMES GOVERNMENT DECISION
"Congratulations to the Federal Government on today's decision to allow 12,000 Syrian refugees into Australia above and beyond the expected humanitarian intake. Prime Minister Tony Abbott's change of mind from last week is surprising but welcome, and shows how the plight of the Syrian refugees has touched Australians. I also welcome the decision to focus on persecuted religious and ethnic minorities, because their position will remain desperate no matter which side has the advantage in Syria's civil war. I am confident there will be strong community approval at this decision, and that Anglican parishes around the country will do all they can to help refugees and smooth their path."
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
Beachside holiday units at Caloundra on Queensland's popular Sunshine Coast from $300/week and accommodating 2-7 people. For more details contact Ray on 0427 990 161 or email rayandjean@hotmail.com
The Rev'd Lyn Porritt has commenced as the Samaritan's Assistant Chaplain – Central Coast. Retirements
The Venerable Stephen Pullin retired on August 31.
Mr Cec Shevels has announced that he will retire as CEO of Samaritans at the end of January 2016. Resignations
Mr David Hartley resigned as the Diocesan Accountant on August 28. The Rev'd Andrew Mead has resigned from ministry in the Anglican Diocese from October 5. Memoriam
Mr Norman Hanmer, The Rev'd Andre Jacob's father-in-law died on August 5.
The Rev'd Warwick Turvey died on August 17. The Rev'd Michael Williamson died on August 26. Anglican Church Australia
The Rev'd Michael Stead has been announced as the next Bishop of South Sydney. He will be consecrated on December 5. Memoriam
Bishop Barry Hunter died on July 28.
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MISSION ACCOMPLISHED MISSIONS AND THE DIOCESE OF NEWCASTLE BY REV'D CANON KATHERINE BOWYER CANON-IN-CHARGE OF MISSIONARY AFFAIRS You may know that in 1847, our diocese, the diocese of Newcastle, was created as a Missionary Diocese. Did you also know, that one of the earliest actions of our first Bishop, William Tyrrell, was to travel on a missionary journey with Bishop Selwyn of New Zealand, to some of the Melanesian Islands. Mission is in our DNA. It's part of who we are as a Diocese. The Great Commission (Matthew 28. 19-20) "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." is our foundation for how we seek, as Christians, to live our lives and share the good news. The Diocese of Newcastle is one of the most generous supporters of external mission in the National Church. Last year, we collectively gave $371,916.31 through our parishes and agencies, to support the work of Mission in Australia and overseas. At a time when demands are being placed on financial resources, we, as the Diocesan Missions Committee, give thanks for this generous and faithful response. We also acknowledge that this amount is not the definitive total of Mission giving, as there is additional giving from individuals throughout the Diocese to support the work of Mission, both in kind, and through direct giving and gifts. The Diocesan Missions Committee exists "to support and encourage all Anglicans in the diocese of Newcastle" in enabling the spread of the gospel. Largely we do that through liaising with and sharing information from our endorsed Diocesan Mission Agencies. These agencies are:
Anglican Board of Missions (ABM-A) – in 2014 we gave $201,341.58. Anglican Aid Abroad (AAA) – in 2014 we gave $3,950.51 Bible Society – in 2014 we gave $6,249.67 Bush Church Aid (BCA) – in 2014 we gave $59,878.13 Church Army (CA) – in 2014 we gave $ 1,976.72
Church Missionary Society (CMS) – in 2014 we gave $67,317.36 Mission to Seafarers – in 2014 we gave $19,852.98 (and this amount is rising) National Home Mission Fund (NHMF) or Outreach Fund – in 2014 we gave $ 9,186.86 SparkLit (formerly Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge Australia (SPCK-A)) – in 2014 we gave $1,568.35 Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA) – in 2014 we gave $594.15 Members of the Diocesan Missions Committee are both elected by Synod and appointed to reflect the diversity of the agencies we support. Members of the Diocesan Missions committee are always happy to come to speak with parishes, parish councils, ministry teams, schools and other agencies, about ways in which external mission can be promoted and encouraged, and integrated into ministry. In March 2015, we were delighted to assist with the visit of Bishop Nathan Tome, Bishop of Guadalcanal, in the Solomon Islands in the Church of Melanesia. Guadalcanal is our Companion Diocese. During his week in the Diocese, Bishop Nathan spent time travelling with Bishop Greg Thompson and Bishop Peter Stuart around the diocese, and visited parishes, Lakes Grammar, Mission to Seafarers, and Samaritans. Bishop Nathan and Bishop Greg also reaffirmed the Covenant between our Dioceses at Evensong at Christ Church Cathedral. We look forward to further exchanges between our dioceses. Thank you for your ongoing, generous support. Look for the Mission Presentation at Pre-Synod meetings in your area for more information on what we do as a Diocese to enable the spread of the gospel!
ANGLICAN BOARD OF MISSION (ABM) CAUGHT IN CYCLONE PAM BY JESS SEXTON ABM'S SOLOMON ISLANDS & VANUATU PROGRAM OFFICER
MISSIONS GIVING 2014
$201, 341.58
ABM's Program Officer, Jess Sexton was in Torba Province in Vanuatu on a monitoring trip in March when Cyclone Pam hit the islands. Jess shares her experience and reports on the destruction locals faced. The start of my trip was spent in Sola where we were warmly received by Bishop Worek Patterson, who was eager to discuss both the progress and the challenges relating to the church and the wider province. We were to spend five days viewing these for ourselves, with a particular focus on the work relating to water, sanitation and adult literacy. Several days into our visit, we began receiving reports of a cyclone heading towards Vanuatu, and although the system had not yet developed into a category five cyclone, the region was put on red alert. Locals rushed to reinforce their houses with sand bags and large
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palm leaves, and purchase extra supplies from shops. As the winds became gale force and heavy seas threatened to break the banks around the town of Sola, vulnerable areas were evacuated to higher ground and cement buildings. The Provincial government drove through the town making announcements in Bislama, the language most commonly spoken, to warn about various dangers and to guide people in their preparations. Text messages sent from the Vanuatu Bureau of Meteorology also kept us updated as to the cyclone's course, which was an essential service in an area with limited electricity and internet access. For several days strong winds and torrential rain lashed the town and the cyclone moved south at a painfully slow pace of 7 km/h. As these affects subsided, we emerged from our bungalows to survey the damage, unsure of what we would find. Thankfully, there was very little destruction in Sola. Minor flooding had occurred and there were roof repairs needed on several buildings, but infrastructure such as roads and bridges remained intact. The area causing most concern amongst locals was the loss of produce from village gardens and fruit trees, as these are heavily depended upon for food. The cyclone had affected communications towers further south, causing a communication black out that was to last seven days. Without the means for accessing funds, and with food stocks running low, local shops were asked to supply goods on credit to the communities both in and around Sola. Clean water was also a cause of concern, as most locals depend on fresh streams running from the mountains behind the town, and few have tanks. During the downpour, these streams became polluted with sediment and debris, and were unsuitable for drinking and washing.
Damage in Port Vila. Source International SOS
Several tanks funded by ABM, installed through the Vanuatu Church Partnership Program in Sola, became essential in times like these. The community was able to access the clean water for drinking, substantially lowering the risk of diseases such as cholera and adenovirus infections. Getting home was a great concern for my Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) colleagues, who I was travelling with, as they were anxious to see that family and friends were safe. Every day we would pray for their safety, pray for the communications towers to be fixed, and pray for the plane to come. It was a great relief when a radio report announced that Espiritu Santo had been spared significant damage, as this was the island home of my travelling companions, and the location of the diocesan office of Vanuatu and New Caledonia. This was mixed with sadness, however, as the destruction in Port Vila was also revealed. We heard that many buildings had been destroyed beyond repair, leaving 10,000 people homeless, and that eight people had lost their lives in the chaos. There was no further
Jess Sexton with Bishop Worek Patterson. Source ABM.
information about the outer islands or even about the rest of Efate, due to the communications difficulties. When the day for our scheduled departure came and there were still no flights, Bishop Worek went into action. He and other ACOM arranged a seat for me on a charter flight booked by the Red Cross, so that I would be able to make my international connection in Port Vila. The following day it was with reluctance that I boarded the small plane without them, knowing how much they wanted to see their families again. Travelling from Sola to Port Vila is a journey I will never forget. The lush tropical forests that covered the islands of Vanua Lava, Gaua and Espiritu Santo stood in stark contrast to the brown wasteland on islands further south. As we flew over islands, we saw the trees had been stripped of their leaves and vines, houses and possessions had been scattered across the bare fields, and smoke was steadily rising from the debris being burnt away. It was like a scene of war, the destruction seemed so complete. I prayed that humanitarian relief would flow quickly, and that these communities would receive the care that they so obviously needed. We arrived in Port Vila at dusk, and saw the city in disarray. Everywhere we looked, trees were blown over, buildings were damaged and crumbling, and boats were mashed together in the wharves. People were hard at work to clear roads and make repairs, even as darkness fell. Electricity had been cut off to much of the city, and many carried torches or lit fires for light. However, the mobile network was fully functional in the capital, and much to my delight I was able to contact ABM and my family, letting them know that I was safe and had arrived in Port Vila. By the next day I had arrived back to a much relieved fiancĂŠ and the ABM family. I am so grateful to everyone who assisted me during my time in Vanuatu - I was overwhelmed by the care and support that was going on in the background. The humanitarian work in Vanuatu is only just beginning, and there is so much to be done. ABM has raised over $190,000 in its Vanuatu Emergency Appeal. This money will go a long way to support the church and locals to repair the damage and build their local communities. Thank you to all the ABM donors who have supported this cause - please continue to keep Vanuatu in your prayers, to ensure that those who have lost everything can have hope for their future. ď ľ
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Photograph of Zakaria courtesy of Matthew and Samantha Archer
CHURCH MISSIONARY SOCIETY (CMS) Matthew and Samantha Archer have served as CMS missionaries in Bunda, Tanzania for ten years. During their past decade in Africa they have ministered alongside many remarkable people including Zakaria Luperengesha. When Zakaria was 14, an evangelist visited his village of Kinyambwiga in Tanzania. It was the first time he had heard about Jesus. And it changed his life. Before long he was teaching Sunday school and Scripture, eager to be equipped for further ministry. His gratitude to God created a deep longing within him to share the gospel. Now 35, Zakaria is married to Esta and they have five children. He recently graduated from Bunda Bible College where he was taught by Matthew Archer and fellow CMS missionary, Jono Vink. "Zakaria loves God and is very passionate about ministry," says Matthew. "He has great ability and commitment to the Boys' Brigade ministry." What is striking about Zakaria is his unswerving confidence in God despite poverty and suffering. "I'd like to say in my service of Jesus since the beginning, I have seen many blessings in my family from Jesus," he says. "He will give me strength for the future." While he was studying, he had to be away from his family and trust that God would take care of them. During that time, his home collapsed during a storm with his wife and children inside. No one was injured. "He is very thankful to God for watching over them through that time," Matthew says. More recently Zakaria has been working alongside Matthew at the Boys' Brigade Training Centre in Mara (BBMTC) helping to train other young men in the Bible and ministry. The BBMTC supports and equips young men with a trade and trains them in understanding the Bible. It was established to help young men who had not had opportunities to study and gain work, to be trained in practical skills. "We want them to go back to their villages and work to make a good income and be responsible members of their communities," Zakaria says. "There are challenges in the ministry of BB, but I want
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to keep telling people about Jesus so they can know him too." Effective ministry is a work of words and deeds. Living with integrity and grace is an essential part of being a missionary. In the 21 years since coming to Christ, Zakaria has come to know many missionaries. He has studied under them, being discipled and encouraged and now works alongside them "In body and spirit I have been blessed by CMS missionaries. Their ministry is very encouraging to work beside," he says. "In Matt Archer, I have seen that through his life he loves Jesus and wants to tell others about him." And for Zakaria, what are his hopes for ministry? "I really want to teach children, though I am ordained now, I want to stay in children's ministry."
MISSIONS GIVING 2014
$67,317.36
IN 2014 THE DIOCESE OF NEWCASTLE COLLECTIVELY GAVE $371,916.31 THROUGH OUR PARISHES AND AGENCIES, TO SUPPORT THE WORK OF MISSION IN AUSTRALIA AND OVERSEAS
Field Staff in Coober Pedy
BUSH CHURCH AID SOCIETY Coober Pedy's Catacomb Church, which is served by BCA Field Staff the Rev'd Geoff Piggott and his wife Tracey, is a star of travel advisory site Trip Advisor. It has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence, which is presented to attractions that consistently earn great reviews from travellers. The Church is ranked eight of 18 things to do in Coober Pedy with reviewers coming from Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, New Zealand, Germany, France and Austria to name a few. Of the 72 reviews currently on Trip Advisor most fall in the excellent and very good categories. The church has received wonderful praise from visitors: "I have visited many churches, mosques, synagogues and temples around the world and I think this is the most impressive so far," said Alan from the United Kingdom. Tracey tells us more of the story: Geoff sits quietly working in his Hobbit Hole Office and hears the sound of the church front door opening. Whenever possible he enters the church from our connecting tunnel to meet and greet tourists. Some are immediately friendly to this strange looking minister who seemingly appears from nowhere, while others start off a little warily. Coober Pedy is such an interesting place and the Catacomb Church so unique that people warm up quickly as Geoff shares the history of the church and the area. Soon Geoff is lying on the floor behind the Communion Table telling tourists to gather around. As I mentioned earlier, he is a strange looking minister! At first tourists are a bit taken aback but when he shows them that he has taken a photo of them up through the air shafts they are impressed and appreciative. Geoff's greatest thrill is to explain the Ichthys symbol which is carved into the rock wall and explain that the fish symbol is an acronym for Jesus is the Christ, God's Son, Saviour. He regularly tells people that we are here for treasure in heaven and not treasure on earth sought by many opal miners. It is all this personal attention as well as the uniqueness and beauty of our church that has produced consistent positive reports from tourists and won us a Certificate of Excellence. We rejoice in the truth of Isaiah 55:11 that the words going out from God's mouth shall not return empty or void but accomplish the purposes for which He sent it.
A crew visit the Mission to Seafarers centre
THE MISSION TO SEAFARERS IN NEWCASTLE The work of the Mission to Seafarers is focused on serving the 50,000 seafarers who enter the Port of Newcastle each year as workers on the bulk carrier and container ships that visit our port. We are committed to caring for seafarers by providing excellent services at our Seafarers Centre in Wickham and assisting seafarers, where possible, to enjoy valuable time ashore, away from their workplace, and time to connect with their families at home. We always aim to make seafarers feel welcomed, valued and well looked after. We provide free transport from the wharves to our Centre in Wickham. From there we offer transport to shopping throughout Newcastle or informal guided tours of our area. The local community in Newcastle greatly values the work of our port, and the wealth and employment opportunities this brings to our city and the wider Hunter region. We are certain that the people of Newcastle are pleased to know that we are looking after seafarers, who are the backbone of this important industry, and that they are well cared for and provided with a safe and wellregulated workplace. At our Wickham seafarers Centre we provide a free internet service so that the seafarers can keep in touch with loved ones and family. We're always conscious of fact the that these seafarers probably won't see their families for nine months at a time (which is the normal length of their contract). So contact via Skye and Facebook is very important. We also provide free clothing, food, entertainment and pastoral care, and give away Bibles in various languages and other Christian literature to help people connect with God in a way they can understand. In addition to these services, we regularly visit ships in our ports to make valuable connections with masters and crew, and visit seafarers in hospital who are facing treatment or surgery. We measure our success by the number of seafarers contacted in the course of our work each year. In 2014 we carried just under 13,000 seafarers in our buses, made 3,249 contacts with vessels and visited over 800 ships. These numbers will increase in 2015 because we now have a second bus and additional volunteers. Our vision is to make contact with all Seafarers and visit all vessels coming into Newcastle, and we will work tirelessly until we reach this goal. ď §
MISSIONS GIVING 2014
MISSIONS GIVING 2014
$59,878.13
$19,852.98 11
SCHOOL SCRIPTURE (SRE)
g n i h t d o o g a It's
SCHOOL SCRIPTURE (SRE) – A REAL BLESSING! THE REV'D CANON MAREE ARMSTRONG RECTOR LAMBTON It is such a wonderful experience to be welcomed into our local public school to teach SRE! I have experience of over 30 years teaching SRE, firstly as a lay person and then as an ordained Anglican priest. Lambton parish has the wonderful history of over 100 years of supporting our local schools with SRE teachers. Even today we have at least three teachers from the local parishes going into local schools every week - prayerfully encouraging children and teaching them faith stories from the curriculum. I have memories of being in a parish in the past, and being invited to teach SRE for a year 6 class. To be an ordained woman, whom they felt could be approached, on their own grounds and ask questions about life and faith was indeed a privilege. It was also very challenging. Often I would see the young people down the street or with their families and in our shared community setting, they would come up and speak to me. They would always introduce me to their family. Many times they shared their stories with me, as well as I with them.
Recently in teaching SRE in local schools, we would start our lesson with some quiet time just settling, sitting still learning to listen even in the quietness. The teacher said she loved this time! She could also quieten down and just allow God to be part of the day. She told me later that it was good for this particular class, to learn how to be still and quiet, and that this would help them with times of stress. She even felt it was helping them learn how to study and sit exams without being too overwhelmed. I pray daily for the teachers in our local schools and over the last six years have established some great relationships with our local schools. They have no hesitation in accepting invitations to be part of church events including the involvement of Lambton and New Lambton and Jesmond school choirs in our carols by candlelight. This has been happening for the past four years. I believe that this good relationship with the local school is due to the wonderful witness of the SRE teachers, who live and breathe and have their being in this community. I think the value of SRE lies in the fact that the people who go into these schools faithfully every week normally live in the same community as the school children. They know and love the area and are passionate about supporting our younger generation. They have wisdom and the gifts of listening and time to share what they have learned about God.
SCHOOL SCRIPTURE It's a good thing CAMPAIGN Many would indeed agree that School Scripture (SRE) – is a good thing! Hunter Christian SRE are working on a fresh, positive media campaign to get the word out to parents about the benefits of SRE to kids.
Educating kids in the Christian faith has many benefits, but unfortunately parents aren't hearing about these. Hunter SRE has set up a Facebook page to encourage SRE teachers, and to share positive stories about SRE for parents. There will also be radio ads on both Christian and secular radio stations, billboards and signs, and an art activity at Mattara Festival. The estimated cost is $20,000. We are looking for people to donate and also for Christian advocates eg school teachers, principals,
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politicians, sportspeople, medical professionals, police officers who have some standing the community who would be willing to be quoted in support of Scripture (or SRE). In October we are asking churches and public schools to use their noticeboards to support SRE eg with the slogan "School Scripture (SRE) – it's a good thing!".
Donations via cheque: ("promotion" on the back) can go to Hunter Christian SRE c/- Kate Baker Diocesan SRE Co-ordinator , Diocesan Office Level 3 134 King St Newcastle NSW 2300. Online donations: Hunter Christian SRE: BSB 650 300 ACC 506143607 tag/description 'promotion'
Like Hunter Christian SRE on Facebook
"I think Scripture is good because kids learn about God, and the miracles of Jesus, and how he died on the cross. I like hearing all the stories. I think kids should go as it's lots of fun and we sometimes do craft. Kids need to learn about God, and forgiveness and the 10 Commandments. To people who don't know about God, I think you should go to Scripture to start having an interest in him, and going to church"
GET INVOLVED IN SRE
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX…JUST 1 HOUR Are you a full-time/part time worker, or a uni student? Teaching Scripture (SRE) nowadays is for everyone! Traditionally Christian Scripture (SRE) classes have been taught by an excellent and faithful volunteer workforce of retired people and full time parents. As many people in our churches between the ages of 20-60 now work, or at uni or college, we are asking you to think more flexibly about ministry. Increasingly Primary School Scripture (SRE) teachers are coming from the working and student population. Ask yourself these questions: • Is there a Primary School within walking distance or a 10 minute drive of work or uni/ college? • Do you…go to the gym or do other activities during the day or at lunch, or between classes? • Do you enjoy working with kids?
- Daniel, Year 4 "I Like Scripture. Sometimes I learn something new! You should come to Scripture because you get fun sheets to do, prizes and sometimes Special Guests! We learn all about God – and then go to church every Sunday!" - Charis, Year 1
"I like Scripture because I have the same Scripture teacher at church and school! We learn about church, God and Jesus do craft and sometimes get prizes! I get to learn about Jesus at church and at school! You should come because you learn all about church."
In our Diocese, 210 Anglican SRE teachers are educating 5-10,000 children each week in Christian Faith It takes just 1 hour* a week to teach scripture (SRE) at a public school, where thousands of children are waiting to be taught about God and Jesus! You will receive full support, training and a great curriculum to use. You must also have a valid Working With Children Check. Generally, there is also a classroom teacher in the room to help with behaviour management. All new SRE teachers would need to shadow an experienced SRE teacher for 3-6 months and attend training. Contact Kate Baker to see how we can support you to teach Scripture… a great opportunity awaits! Phone 4926 3733 or email katebaker@newcastleanglican.org.au
- Lydia, Kindy "In Scripture, I like the games we play related to the stories. I think Scripture is too short! I think it's a good way to teach kids about God and Jesus. I think Scripture is important because if you don't go to church and are too busy, it's a good way to learn about Go. It's a good thing!" - Laura Year 5
" I like learning about God and playing games. Scripture is similar to other classes at school, because you are learning – but it's a different subject. It's good the way it is. I think it's important to learn about Jesus and have faith in Him, so that people can go to heaven."
* On average, plus lesson preparation time of approx. 1 hour.
NSW SRE 2013/14 Enrolments by Denominations
CATHOLIC
ANGLICAN
- Ashley Year 5
"In Scripture, We learn about Jesus and the miracles he did and what he did. Kids need to go to Scripture because they need to know about God so they can go to heaven and have faith in Him. I have learnt that earth isn't the only place. There is also heaven which is a larger place where there is no crying or sickness or death (which is really good! Daniel agrees)." - Eamon year 4
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BREAK THE SILENCE
SAMARITANS TAKES ACTION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Violence against women is a serious problem in Australia with, on average, one woman killed every week over a 12 month period as a result of intimate partner violence. It's confronting to recognise that domestic and family violence is the main cause of homelessness for women and their children in Australia. Frightening statistics show that one in four children are exposed to domestic violence which is a recognised form of child abuse; and one in five women experience sexual harassment within the workplace. SAMARITANS - TAKING ACTION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE In recognition of these statistics, and in the hope of eliminating domestic violence, Samaritans is working to meet criteria to become accredited through the White Ribbon Australia Workplace Accreditation Program. This accreditation promotes quality and accountability and recognises the integrity of the whole organisation in relation to upholding equality standards. Samaritans has identified the importance of its male staff, and in particular, the male members of its Senior Management Team, to be White Ribbon Ambassadors. White Ribbon Ambassadors are men who become formal representatives of White Ribbon and who have the knowledge, skills, attributes and determination to influence Australian men to critically evaluate their attitudes and behaviours toward women. November 25 is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, with a white ribbon as its iconic symbol. Samaritans is acknowledging and supporting this important day with senior male staff in their role as White Ribbon Ambassadors leading a White Ribbon Day celebration.
Intimate partner violence is the most common type of violence against women, affecting 30 per cent of women worldwide, according to the World Health Organisaation 14
CEC SHEVELS CEO, SAMARITANS
• • • • • •
PUT A STOP TO DOMESTIC VOILENCE CEC SHEVELS CEO, SAMARITANS
Most of us have been surprised and shocked at the increased reports of domestic violence which have been appearing in the media throughout the year. The statistics are quite startling: • Every week in recent years a woman has been killed by a partner or former partner and the numbers this year are already exceeding this. One in three women over 15 will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. One in 5 women will experience sexual abuse. Domestic violence contributes more to death, disability and ill health in women under 45 than any other factor. Younger women and women living in regional or Indigenous communities are more vulnerable. 50% of violence occurs in the presence of children. 24% of homelessness is caused by domestic and family violence.
Domestic violence is an inherently gendered crime with the majority of perpetrators men and the victims women. Men are more likely to be victims of violence by strangers and women
more likely to be victims of violence by a person they know, particularly intimate partners. It's the latter group we refer to as victims of domestic violence. This type of violence is particularly disturbing because it usually occurs in what should be the security of one's own home. The causes are not clear. • Is it a perceived gender inequality? This would be particularly disappointing in Australia given the huge gains we have made in this area in recent decades? • Is violence still accepted as a way to resolve conflict? • Are the men experiencing more stress and anger or struggling with drug addiction, mental health or unemployment? • Are community / police attitudes to domestic violence too accepting of occasional acts of violence at home? • Or is it all of the above? Whatever the causes, this violence must be stopped. The Prime Minister has promised a national response to be discussed at COAG later this year and Opposition Leader is calling for a national summit.
ROB DAWSON SAMARITANS WHITE RIBBON AMBASSADOR Samaritans Director of Community Services, Rob Dawson, is horrified by statistics that show one woman a week dies in Australia as a result of domestic violence. As a husband and father to strong, empowered women he is passionate about the role of men in taking a proactive stance to end the domestic violence epidemic. For Rob silence is unacceptable. As one of Samaritans senior male staff, Rob has committed to being a formal representative of White Ribbon by becoming an Ambassador for the cause. When asked about his role as a White Ribbon Ambassador Rob believes, "It is contingent upon male staff to be aware, proactive and supportive in the workplace." As a Director at Samaritans, Rob is responsible for a significant cohort of staff. Many of these staff are women. And he is unrelenting in his resolve to uphold White Ribbon's equality standards both in the workplace and in the community. "Domestic violence pervades much of Samaritans work – from early intervention to women's refuges. Many of the young people supported in Samaritans Out of Home Care were unable to remain with their family due to domestic violence. We must stop the domestic violence scourge," he said. On November 25, Rob along with other Samaritans Ambassadors will be leading White Ribbon Day celebrations.
Measures I would like to see introduced following these discussions include:
At judicial level • All violence at home to be treated as a criminal offence by police regardless of the wishes of the victim • Police / court to have the power to remove the perpetrator from the family home. • Tracking devices to be an option in high risk situations so alarms can be raised before the perpetrator reaches the family home. At the social welfare level • In situations when mothers / women must leave home, they should have access to safe and secure accommodation which is available 24/7. Apparently the most likely time for violence to occur is weekend, during the evening. Too many services are closed at these times • Women's refuges should be linked to women's housing services so that those who can't return home can quickly reestablish themselves and their families. Too often victims of violence return to their former partner because they can't find anywhere affordable to live. They are then somehow blamed for being part of the problem but women without resources cannot rebuild their lives without assistance. At the community level: • A national campaign similar to quit smoking / drink driving to persuade Australians that domestic violence is not acceptable. The annual White Ribbon Day should be part of this. • A national education program for our schools. Apparently approximately one million children each year witness domestic and family violence. Some of these children believe violence is just part of family life. • There should be research into the reasons domestic violence is more common in regional areas. • There should be more consultation with Aboriginal communities about safety initiatives as there are cultural differences to consider. • Men who are subject to an apprehended domestic violence order should be referred to government funded "alternatives to violence" programs. • Churches which sponsor peace and justice groups should add domestic and family violence to their agendas and churches which promote male headship in the family should ensure that this does not encourage family violence. Violence against women and children is a human rights violation and this must be stopped.
SUPPORTING WHITE RIBBON White Ribbon is Australia's only national, male led Campaign to end men's violence against women. In 2015, White Ribbon is asking all Australian's swear the oath on November 25 and let the world know where you stand on violence against women. There are many ways you can get involved in White Ribbon: •
Become an Ambassador: Men representing White Ribbon in the community and playing a leadership role in preventing men's violence against women.
•
Advocate: Men and women supporting the White Ribbon Campaign by breaking the silence over men's violence against women, through the activation of people, networks and opportunities to make violence against women a man's issue too.
•
Swear: Swear the oath and let the world know where you stand. Show your support at www.whiteribbon.org.au/standup or take a stand online through social media
For more information about White Ribbon visit www.whiteribbon.org.au
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FREEDOM SUNDAY
STANDING AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING Freedom Sunday is a global day of worship, prayer and action on human trafficking. In 2015 it will be held on Sunday October 18. Together, let's stop human trafficking and let's start freedom. People shouldn't be bought and sold. Instinctively we know that this is true. And yet the crime of human trafficking is a tragic reality. Freedom Sunday is a global day of worship and prayer which calls for action against this evil trade. On this day churches all over the world will join together to raise awareness of this crime and show our compassion for men, women and children who are trafficked and exploited emotionally, physically and sexually. We often think that the crime of slavery belongs only in the past. We speak of people like William Wilberforce, William Pitt, John Newton and countless others who led the campaign to bring about an end to the slave trade in the British Empire. Yet the truth is that modern slavery continues to oppress millions of people across the world. In fact, human trafficking is the world's fastest growing global crime.
DID YOU KNOW? 1.2 million children are trafficked every year At least 20.9 million people are victims of forced labour worldwide Human trafficking is the second largest source of illegal income worldwide exceeded only by drugs trafficking.
In 2014 a number of world faith leaders, including Archbishop Justin Welby and Pope Francis, signed a historic declaration aimed at tackling human trafficking and modern slavery. It stated that:
Modern slavery, in terms of human trafficking, forced labour and prostitution, organ trafficking, and any relationship that fails to respect the fundamental conviction that all people are equal and have the same freedom and dignity, is a crime against humanity.
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Archbishop Justin Welby has spoken passionately on this issue:
If we are to combat this evil then we must work together to prevent the crime, support the survivors and prosecute the criminals. The knowledge that churches have of their local communities puts them on the frontline in this campaign. Freedom Sunday provides churches with an opportunity to join together with others around the world in a day of worship, prayer and action on human trafficking. Freedom Sunday challenges us and resources us to take action to prevent the crime of human trafficking in our local and global communities.
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED? Freedom Sunday encourages faith communities to make commitments to take action to prevent the crime of human trafficking in our local and global communities.
Churches are invited to plan a worship service on Freedom Sunday by making use of the resource material available at: www.newcastleanglican.org.au/mission-ministries/social-justice or by registering at: www.freedomsundayglobal.org Although the official date is October 18, church leaders may choose to celebrate this on any other Sunday. The resource pack also contains lots of suggestions for community and campaign actions that we may be interested in as a way to start taking action against human trafficking. William Wilberforce once said:
"You may choose to look the other way but you can never say again that you did not know." By participating in Freedom Sunday we promise not to look the other way. We recognise that the evil of human trafficking must be confronted and overcome. We stand together with churches across the world to oppose all forms of slavery and to declare that human dignity and freedom must be respected. Freedom Sunday's message is simple: Stop human trafficking! People shouldn't be bought and sold!
THINKING ABOUT FAITH
GOD, GAYS AND MARRIAGE
THE VIEW OF THE CHURCH BY THE MOST REV'D PHILIP FREIER PRIMATE OF AUSTRALIA & ANGLICAN ARCHBISHOP OF MELBOURNE Seldom has such a fundamental human institution as marriage been so contested as now. Last month's ruling by the United States Supreme Court that bans on same-sex marriage are unconstitutional will surely provide impetus in Australia to move towards legislative change, just as the Irish referendum result did. Debate is intensifying.
Since white settlement in Australia, the church has acted as an unofficial guardian for the values and aspirations of marriage, especially as an institution that encourages the flourishing of families. Marriage carries important social and legal aspects, both in terms of legal protections such as legitimation of children or inheritance rights and in terms of building social climate. The state concerns itself in the regulation of this most personal and intimate of relationships because marriage is a foundational institution to our society. In Australia the church inherited this role from the English system which had an established church with legal privileges that did not apply in Australia but were long-assumed in the mono-cultural colonies. Church and State seemed natural allies in this cause. But Australia is vastly more diverse today, and the church's influence has waned through a variety of causes. It will never again have the same dominant position as society's conscience and moral guardian. Christian advocates must accept that we are one voice among many, even though it is often a voice of considerable wisdom and experience. That being so, it might be thought anomalous that the church remains the state's representative when it comes to performing marriage, that ministers of religion (along with civil celebrants) act on behalf of the state by performing a legal ceremony that is recognised and legitimised by the state.
The Marriage Act has already registered significant social changes, such as providing safeguards for de facto partners. Same-sex marriage would be a far more significant step away from the Christian understanding of marriage that prevailed when the law was first enacted. While same-sex marriage stretches this conception of marriage, it seems that in other respects we as a society have
very traditional perspectives. Bigamy or polygamy remain taboo. Yet if the argument from the freedom of human choice stands – that it is unjust to deny people the chance to marry whomsoever they want – then we should recognise that polygamy is widely practised in many societies around the world. Islam allows up to four wives – under certain circumstances – yet when a Melbourne sheikh proposed legalising polygamy several years ago the reaction was outrage. It might be time to make sanctioning legal
Many Christians support same-sex marriage, but most believers remain more conservative. marriage a matter purely for the state. Perhaps the people who register marriages should simply be public servants who attest to the bona fides of the parties to the marriage. Marriage could be made more accessible by online registration and processing. Under such a system, Australia would then operate as does much of Europe. There, for example, a couple goes to the state office and the ceremony is performed by a public servant. Then they emerge to enjoy whatever sort of celebration they choose, shared with family and friends. Traditional church weddings could still be held in this way, along with ceremonies in the backyard or on surfboards at sea, as now, but they would be separate celebrations from the state-sanctioned legal approval.
For Christians, of course, holy matrimony includes a particular understanding of what the pair are committing themselves to which goes well beyond what is legislated. The church's traditional understanding of marriage certainly agrees with the 2004 amendment that is now so controversial: "Marriage means the union of a man and a woman to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life." But Christians go further. We believe that marriage is ordained by God, that the
vows have a particularly sacred character because they are explicitly made before God, and that the closeness and intensity of loving sexual relationships which are proper only within marriage teach us something of God's love. (Sadly, we have to recognise that Christians are not much better than the wider population at maintaining this commitment till death – Christians divorce at much the same rate as non-Christians.)
It is no longer reasonable for us to expect that the State's approach will be as prescriptive and demanding as the Christian understanding, but nor is it reasonable for the state to expect Christians to give up their comprehensive and long-standing view.
So the merit of a simple, one size fits all, legal contract carried out by the State, followed by personal celebrations of a near-infinite variety of possibilities, is that it protects particular practices without confining those who do not follow them.
Christians could preserve their concept of holy matrimony. Of course non-religious couples can be just as sincere and earnest in their vows, but what especially sets the Christian understanding apart from nonbelievers is that a third party is involved: God.
Even within Christianity, let alone wider society, what marriage does and should involve is a contested space. Many Christians support same-sex marriage, seeing it as an urgent issue of justice, but the centre of gravity among believers remains likely to be towards a conservative understanding. One thing we know, because we have seen the pace of social change, is that we live in a society with a high appetite for social reform. A rethink of the place of the State in regulating marriage may be helpful. A revisiting of the delegation of a state function to all sorts of independent citizens, whether religious or civil celebrants, may produce separation of state and non-state actors in this important and foundational institution of marriage. It just might strengthen the intention of those who look to marriage as a further and more complete step in their relationship. This article was originally published in The Age, Melbourne.
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Thank You and FAREWELL
The Venerable Stephen Pullin decided to retire from full time active ministry on August 31. Stephen is an outstanding priest and his leadership in many parishes has greatly benefited this Diocese. As Archdeacon of Newcastle over the last seven years he has shown leadership right across the Diocese and this will be greatly missed. As the Venerable Stephen Pullin moves into the next phase of his life, he looks back on his time in full-time ministry with thankfulness. Stephen grew up in Gosford and Mayfield and entered St Johns College, Morpeth, in 1977. He graduated four years later and was ordained deacon in February and priest in November 1981. Stephen then went on to serve in the parishes of Woy Woy, Belmont, Belmont North/Redhead, Cathedral, Southlakes, Lakes Anglican and Terrigal, and has been the Archdeacon of Newcastle since 2008. He also served as rector of the parish of Coffs Harbour in Grafton Diocese. During his time in ministry Stephen has served on a number of Diocesan committees and boards. These include the Diocesan Council, Property Approvals Board, School boards for Lakes Grammar and BTAC, Samaritans Board, presentation Board, as well as attending both Provincial and General Synods as a representative of the Diocese. He has also served as an Examining Chaplain, member of the Schools Commission and on a number of Diocesan committees, boards and working Groups. After a lifetime of generally "hanging around" the church, and nearly 40 years since entering Theological College, Stephen gave the following reflections on ministry and mission then and now.
Stephen speaks of the exciting moments of ministry, mentioning "they all had their moments. "Starting a new Parish at Belmont North/ Redhead was a buzz, and it's great to see it going strong 30 years on. Building projects were always a challenge, but bought great rewards and opportunities." He enjoyed seeing people and places reach their potential, "and to experience God's presence and Spirit in all the aspects of Parish life are what I'm most thankful for as I look back. That and the relationships that enrich and sustain us along the way." As Stephen looks back on the more challenging moments of ministry, he explains "all of them have their moments".
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He reflects on the work of developing the Anglican Schools as a great privilege but also a terriffic challenge. "Many a night has been spent agonising over plans but the rewards are immense, and I take great joy in seeing the results of the faithful ministries and the fruit that they bear in the lives of young people then and now." As he leaves full-time ministry, Stephen expresses his thankfulness. "Thankfulness to God, who is faithful. Thankfulness to my brothers and sisters in Christ, all those who have been such wonderful companions on the way. And thankfulness to those who have trusted God enough to recognise my vocation and gifts and allow me the privilege and opportunity to minister with and among them. "As most people will be aware, the last 18 months have brought with them significant challenges health-wise, and it is for that reason that I am now taking this next step to retirement. Robyn and I are both keenly aware of and thankful for all those who have supported us, and continue to do so, both prayerfully and practically, during this time. This includes people across the Diocese, and of course our friends and colleagues in the Diocesan Office, with whom we have worked so closely in recent years. We thank them all with deep gratitude and love. It has been, I am sure, the gifts of love of so many that have sustained and supported us along the way. "As for the future, I guess we'll have to wait and see. My hope is that I can prayerfully and practically support the various ministries of the Diocese. I'll still be 'hanging around', and look forward to being there in whatever way I can to encourage and affirm the ministries that are offered by others. Ministry for me will take a different shape... of that there is no doubt... but equally certain is that my desire is to serve the one who calls and equips us all, and makes us all 'a kingdom, priests serving his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.' (Rev 1:6)."
A MESSAGE OF THANKS FROM AROUND THE DIOCESE...
Rosemary Gillham Stephen - on the occasion of your retirement from one type of ministry and your entry into a new chapter in your life‌.
There have, no doubt, been many chapters so far and many more to come, but I want to reflect on the particular chapter that I was privileged to share with you.
I recall with so much pleasure the time when we were part of the leadership team on the Central Coast and in particular the great experience of working together as a team (with Bishop Graeme Rutherford and Arthur Copeman). The gifts you brought to the team were your energy and enthusiasm and your ability to communicate a vision for the future. I felt that there was mutual encouragement and appreciation of one another's gifts. In times of planning and prayer there was a sense of the Spirit of God at work. What a privilege! I thank God for you. You have the rare gift of being able to forge change even when ideas of change are unpopular. You could help people work through their apprehension and resistance and see the vision.
Over time our lives have taken new paths, but you remain a dear friend. I look forward to hearing and seeing what God has in store for you in the next chapter – you will continue to be a blessing to others, you will find new ways to serve the Lord. There will be wonderful times of enjoyment and discovery for you and Robyn as you travel and explore the country. There will be delight in family and pleasure in the company of good friends. The words of Jeremiah 29:11 come to mind. Enjoy the next adventure!
Glenyce Armstrong
Michael Hannah
PARISH OF SOUTHLAKES
PRINCIPAL, LAKES GRAMMAR
Early in 2001 Southlakes parishioners prepared to interview the Rev'd Stephen Pullin with view to choosing a new Parish Priest. It soon became apparent that the words "interview" and "choosing" were totally inappropriate! The Rev'd Stephen, in his own inimitable way, was well past the interview stage and into the "planning stage". Needless to say, we accepted him! (Or was it the other way round?) For a short period we concentrated on getting to know one another. We experienced his inspirational sermons (few notes, if any) and of course the related joke! Parish Council meetings were a buzz of ideas and action. We had five separate committees working together and a calm sense of the future prevailed. "CALM", however is apparently not a good state in which to be. Our new priest had done his homework. An eye had been cast over the Parish Hall (originally an army hut), correctly deeming it in need of immediate demolition! Obviously we would require a new hall. Red rag to a bull. Unbeknown to most of us, the Rev'd Stephen's other gift is building. There began the grand plan. With the Rev'd Stephen's gift of vision and the support of parishioners, a "simple" plan was determined with view to more efficient use of parish buildings. The offending hall would be demolished (ie. once we had convinced our local council it was not a heritage building.) Our rental property/ex Curate's residence, (following transformation to diocesan standards) would become the rectory and its garage would separately house both parish office and an op shop. The ex-rectory (internal walls removed) would become a ministry centre, complete with industrial kitchen and we would build a new and larger church with view to future growth in this area, following which, the existing church would become the parish hall. The Rev'd Stephen was in his element – so much to do including the usual worship and outreach activities, the "not so smooth" closure of churches at Wangi Wangi and Dora Creek, demolition of the hall, the op shop doing well in its new location and plans for the new church awaiting Council approval – such a frenzy of activity and expectation. At this point the Rev'd Stephen's gifts were required elsewhere. We, the parishioners, were devastated. The Rev'd Stephen, himself took up the challenge of seeking out both a priest with vision and fortitude and a builder from our own midst who would ably complete our beautiful new church. What a great day it was as both new and former rectors joined in the celebratory opening of our new church. Archdeacon Stephen, we thank you for your tireless work in our Diocese of Newcastle. May our Lord bless you in your retirement.
I have a lot to thank Father Stephen for – to start with, he was on the panel that appointed me as Foundation Principal of Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School. Stephen was a part of what was then called "the Select Committee" whose task was to open a new school and appoint its Principal. Lakes Grammar opened in February 2004 and Stephen then became one of the members of the inaugural Lakes Grammar Board. Not only that, but he and Robyn were our first chaplains. We used to share preaching duties in those early years, when chapel was held in the school courtyard and we were looking out on only a couple of hundred students from K-12. Robyn later returned to Lakes as a chaplain for several years under the Federal Government's Chaplaincy in Schools program.
Stephen had Board experience setting up an Anglican school on the north coast so his insights and wisdom were highly valued by our Board. Stephen became the third Lakes Grammar Board Chair in September 2008 and served until March 2009 when Bishop Peter was appointed Chair. At that time Stephen was Rector of the Gorokan Parish, which later became the Lakes Anglican Parish. It was a joy to work alongside Stephen and Robyn in the Christian ministry at Lakes Grammar and as we formed close ties with the Lakes parish. Stephen has a great, and occasionally wicked, sense of humour. Behind that surface humour lies deep Christian wisdom formed through prayer, reflection on the Scriptures and life, and love of the Lord. Stephen had a strong commitment to the Christian mission of our school and was excited to be part of a project that brought young people into contact with the gospel. Stephen and Robyn are generous and compassionate people who display Christ's character in their relationships with others. I miss the close friendship we had when we worked together on the Board and at school. Stephen has a beautiful pastoral heart and I'm sure he will continue to touch people with God's grace in his retirement. I pray God's blessings on Stephen and Robyn for their future.
The Venerable Arthur
Copeman
In the middle of 1987 I was a theological student who felt that God was calling him to the Diocese of Newcastle. I made some enquiries to the Diocese and as a result an interview was arranged with an Examining Chaplain by the name of Stephen Pullin. Stephen was at the time Priest in Charge of the Experimental Parish of Belmont North Redhead. My wife, Anabelle, and I headed to the meeting with Stephen with some natural nervousness. What would an Examining Chaplain be like? Would we be able to answer his questions? Actually Stephen was the first person ever to ask Anabelle what she thought of me going into ministry! More than that, what began in the interview has been a wonderful friendship. The following year (1988) I had the unique privilege of being a theological student at Belmont North/Redhead three days each week under Stephen's leadership. Then, many years later, we served together in a leadership team with Rosemary Gillham under Bishop Graeme Rutherford on the Central Coast. In 2008 Stephen and I were collated together to be the Archdeacons for the Diocese of Newcastle. Since then we have worked closely together and I have greatly valued Stephen's wisdom and experience in ministry. Stephen is always in every aspect of ministry asking if what we are doing is indeed what God would have us do. Further to that, Stephen is gifted in developing a vision for the ministry which he believes God would have us do. Stephen is gifted in sharing that vision with those around him, so that they too can support the vision and work towards it. This giftedness from God has enabled Stephen to lead many parishes in significant ministry growth. It is my hope and prayer that Stephen in "retirement" will be able to continue to offer to both the Diocese, and all of us within it, his God-given wisdom.
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SPIRITED GENEROSITY BY CAROLYN KITTO CO-DIRECTOR, SPIRITED CONSULTING Australians have always been known for their generosity. The Charities Aid Foundation uses as their measures for generosity giving money, giving time (volunteering) and helping a stranger. It is in giving money and helping a stranger that Australia excels. Not only is this part of what it means to be human, it is also embedded in our culture. Part of our cultural mythology is the desire to give everyone a go. We revere those who put others ahead of themselves.
In mainline churches in Australia I think we have forgotten the language of giving and we don't know how to talk about money. I haven't ever found a congregation that didn't have a sense of what they could do with more money and yet we struggle to know how to invite people to give and we are shy in talking about money. We know how we don't want to talk about money and in many cases we have given up all together. What people give is not something that is just between them and God, it is also between them and their church for the mission God has called them to. That's why I got into helping churches with their finances. I came across too many churches who struggled to find the resources for the mission they believed God was calling them to. In workshops around the Diocese we explored the key components in helping churches to discover the generosity within them and inviting people to be generous. There are three key components which help a church resource its mission 1. MISSION ACTION BUDGET This style of budget shows the mission action a church has planned in the coming year, rather than a budget which shows income and expenses. It makes clear how people's giving will contribute to the mission of the church. A mission action budget takes the Mission Action Plan of the church and shows how the church is planning to invest financially in them. A clear step by step process for the churches to develop this style budget in included in Spirited Generosity.
A budget is not only a planning tool but a values statement. It tells us what we think is important and shows our purpose. When the stipend is the first and largest item on the budget it suggests our purpose is to have a minister. Churches don't have a minister so they can have a minister. They have a minister to join with them to fulfil their call to be God's people, to worship God, to care for their neighbour and to reach their community. This is what the budget should show. 2. A MISSION RESOURCING PLAN Most churches limit both the ways they invite people to give and who they invite to give. Behind this thinking is a sense of resources being limited and we should restrict what we ask people to give. In fact, when people are a part of shaping a future they will also be a part of resourcing that future. A part of engaging people in decisions about priorities and focus is allowing them to direct their giving and grow in their generosity with the mission of the Church.
The Giving Matrix is a simple tool included in Spirited Generosity which opens up a range of income sources for a church to develop in a 3 – 5 year plan. With a plan for income, churches can be wise and adventurous in planning to grow their mission.
Carolyn Kitto works through Spirited Consulting to resource churches in their giving, mission action planning and leadership. She can be contacted at Carolyn.kitto@spirited.net.au 3. INVITING PEOPLE TO GIVE
Spirited Generosity provides bible studies, prayers, sermon ideas, illustrations, video clips and daily reflections for talking about money and giving. It brings back a language which works for main-line churches. The language of generosity is strongly inviting and biblical, reminding us of our own experiences of God's generosity. Sample letters, brochures, DVD's, PowerPoints and other ways of communicating the mission of a church are included to be adapted for each church's unique situation.
There is a French saying, "The last thing a fish discovers is water". Perhaps when it comes to being church we are at last discovering that we need money and if we don't ask the answer will be "no". Spirited Generosity is about money. It is about inviting people to give. It is about regaining an authentic language for churches to talk about money and inviting people to give in ways which are helpful for the mission of the church and the discipleship of our members.
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.
AFTER YOU HAVE REMEMBERED YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL TO THE 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. No matter how large or small, every gift is an expression of your gratitude and thanksgiving towards God, and can make a significant impact on our mission and ministry. You may wish to consider a bequest the activities of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle as the recipient of either a special gift or the residue of your estate. Contact Linda Wilson at the Diocesan Office for more information on 4926 3733.
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INSIGHTS: A WORD FROM OUR CHAPLAINS
SAMARITANS CHAPLAINCY BY CANON DR. JULIA PERRY CHAPLAIN, SAMARITANS
The Rev'd Chris Jackson with Canon Dr Julia Perry
Chaplaincy is being positive and motivating – as long as your dignity gets out of the way. Chaplaincy is knowing the language, culture and ethos of your agency – without cluttering or distracting conversation with your "churchy" bias. Chaplaincy is about approachability and availability. That means it is often necessary to work around clergy/religious stereotypes (Fr Ted, Sister Act, Vicar of Dibley etc) and church failures (abuse, cover-up and neglect) which might be all that your agency people know of Christianity.
Chaplaincy usually relies a great deal upon your personality and the strategies you use for people to meet and engage with you. I use humour and try to pick up on any conversation openings that let me name God. I say to staff at orientation sessions that it's great if they can suss me out when things are fine – so they might know before something dire happens whether they would welcome me into the situation. I've been fortunate to have worked in chaplaincy in tertiary (and briefly in secondary) education, aged care – and again now back at the Samaritans in welfare. The agencies have been hugely different – secular and faithbased, geographically spread and local, underage and nearing end of life. Sometimes my ministry has been focused on the "end user" (eg the students) at other times (eg Samaritans) the focus is upon the "servicedeliverer" – the staff. Of course there is always a necessary blend! The staff at Samaritans deal with all the vagaries of life – mortgages, kids and schooling, aging parents, short term and uncertain contracts and employment. When they come to work – which may be almost any time of day or night depending upon shifts - they then engage with some of the neediest and chronically deprived folk of our society. Deprivation of health, mental stability and work-fitness may never be remedied for the people we support (PWS). Other PWS are homeless; couch surfing or sleeping rough and with such low esteem that a way forward is almost too much for them to bear to contemplate. For the staff too, there is often little in the way of comfort or rest for the heart and soul at work. As chaplain, my ministry is to strengthen resilience and support those staff who are occasionally overwhelmed. I try to do this by being clear where my support and resilience is founded! Perhaps the hardest part of this particular chaplaincy is that so many folk do such good and caring work with the least and the last –they can be very Christ-like in their attitude towards the people we support and each other – yet do not know Christ's hospitality, love, or his light or his salvation. On the other hand when one asks who I talk to or to whom I go to for comfort and security – then I have the chance to share my relationship with God – all (well at least some) of the good, the bad, and the ugly bits where I err and Jesus redeems. Pray for us please.
COMMONWEALTH CHAPLAINS UNITE TO STRENGTHEN SERVICES When the Canadian Navy received a call from the Australian Defence Force inviting serving Chaplains to join RAAF Chaplaincy in 2009, local Lemon Tree Passage Chaplain Stèphane Sarazin leapt at the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with a foreign Defence Force. A Roman Catholic Military Diocese of Canada Chaplain on 'loan' to Australia, Wing Commander Sarazin was inspired to accept the exchange when he met Chaplain (Air Commodore) Peter O'Keefe, who was sailing with the Canadian Military on HMCS Halifax in the Persian Gulf, back in 2002. "I am the Senior Coordinating Chaplain, whereby I'm responsible for the coordination of ongoing ministry for RAAF Bases Williamtown, Darwin, Tindal, Edinburgh, Woomera and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Basic Flying Training School near Tamworth," Chaplain Stèphane explains. "In essence, I lead, develop, mentor and train individual Chaplains and Chaplaincy teams driven by the Air Force Headquarters vision. Since my arrival in Australia, the RAAF Base Williamtown Chaplaincy Centre has become the first ADF body to join the ACON Safe Place Program." "Under my leadership, the Chaplaincy team at No. 26 Squadron has made a commitment to provide a safe haven for all members of the ADF, to oppose discrimination and to speak up against prejudice," Chaplain Stèphane proudly states. Consistent with Air Force values, this initiative will support members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community." Chaplain Stèphane's colourful and celebrated career has taken him to the North Pole for a 24 day visit in the most northerly inhabited settlement on the globe, to his first crossing of the Red Sea Canal with HMCS Halifax to start a patrol in the Arabian Sea for several months. "It has been a privilege to serve as a Military Chaplain across many countries for nearly 20 years; I have received an Australian Defence Medal and Canadian Medals SWASM (Afghanistan), SSM (Navy Deployment) and CD (12 years of Service) for my commitment," Chaplain Stèphane reflects. For over 75 years, the RAAF has engaged clergy in both the Permanent and Specialist Reserve of the Air Force. These clergy have served Air Force personnel and their families in both tragic and joyous times, in both times of conflict and peace. They were the early providers of spiritual, religious and pastoral care support to the Air Force. The Air Force currently has some recruitment opportunities for each specialisation. If you have an interest in RAAF Chaplaincy, to find more information or to apply as a Chaplain, visit www.airforce.gov.au/ chaplains
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Living with Faith Between the Past and the Future BY THE REV'D CHRIS GARLAND PRIEST IN CHARGE STROUD In our diocese we are "facing the past and seeking to shape a healthy future". As we seek to do so, I want to ask what methods of Bible reading, what approaches to worship, and what ways of living in Christian community can help us in our current situation and also in our church life in general? Let us turn first to the Bible. Walter Brueggeman offers a way in to his reading of the Psalms by saying: "I have utilised a scheme of orientation-disorientation-new orientation‌ to help us see things we might not see otherwise". He adds, "the moves of orientation-disorientation-new orientation are for Christians most clearly played out in the life of Jesus of Nazareth", for Jesus was in the form of God, (orientation) emptied himself (disorientation) and was highly exalted (new orientation). Brueggemann offers an approach we may take with worship when he says that in baptism we are buried, with Christ, (disorientation) and then raised with him (new orientation). The Psalms that Brueggemann describes as orientation are those which call us to faith in the Creator and affirm the goodness of his creation. At the same time he raises the "suspicious possibility", that, by themselves, these Psalms might be used as a form of social control. However we then need to take into account the complaint or lament Psalms which express disorientation, and loss of control, but do so as an act of bold faith. A supreme example of the use of such Psalms is when Jesus on the cross quotes Psalm 22, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?". Brueggemann says such Psalms are speech "at the limit" reflecting experience "at the limit". It is only when the Psalmist reaches the depths of such experience that there bursts in upon him an experience and expression of new orientation. Have you ever noticed the way in which Psalm 28 moves from the fear of being "like those who go down into the pit" to crying out "Blessed be the Lord for he has heard the sound of my pleadings.."? A prophetic word has come to the Psalmist in the depths of his misery, thereby entering the stage of new orientation. During the stage of disorientation, we can hear the Psalmist having to face uncomfortable truths about himself and his community and this gives us a voice to do the same for ourselves. During the stage of new orientation we are
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invited to a retrieval of our faith in God's grace at the heart of the Bible So the Psalms and many other areas of the Bible, above all the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, speak to and open up to us our own experiences of moving from the bonds of the past, through present struggle to the new life into which God invites us through Jesus. In other words the Psalms and the Bible as a whole can be a guide to navigate our journey from past bonds, through transition to future new life. As I mentioned, Brueggemann says baptism includes stages of disorientation and reorientation. Here we have encouragement to link his scheme with an outline of worship services as "rites of passage" which begin with a call to faith, through a threshold of confession, and then in to reception of saving grace. This structure is found in communion as well as baptism and in any other rites of passage we devise to help us in our lives. So again we have a three-stage journey that helps navigate our way through the gap from where we have been to where we seek to be. Finally, as a Christian community, we seek to journey with Jesus Christ who died to set us free from the power of sin and rose to be the first-fruits of the new life that he invites us to share as his body the church on the way to the final resurrection. In his book, Self and Salvation, Being Transformed, David Ford has drawn upon recent work on what it is to meet face to face with one another and with the Other. Ford quotes Paul's declaration that "it is the God who said, 'Light will shine out of darkness' who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ". Then Ford says: "Christianity is characterised by the simplicity and complexity of facing: being faced by God, embodied in the face of Christ; turning to face Jesus Christ in faith; being members of a community of the face; seeing the the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle face of God reflected in Anglican Church of Australia creation and especially in each human face with The Diocese takes allegations of misconduct and all the faces in our heart abuse seriously. related to the presence of Professional Standards protocols provide formal procedures for handling complaints of misconduct. the face of Christ; having We welcome and encourage people with concerns to come forward by speaking with a contact person. an ethic of gentleness‌". Contact persons are trained to listen, will maintain May we be a "community confidentiality and will help you understand the processes involved. If required, they can also assist in documenting of the face" so that with the complaint. the aid of the Bible and To discuss your concerns in confidence, please phone worship, we may move 1800 774 945 through the gap between past and future. You will be put in touch with a local contact person.
A Reflection on The Shadow THE REV'D DR. KIM MILLER CORRECTIVE SERVICES COMMUNITY CHAPLAIN In thinking further on this theme I have in mind to examine the Jungian concept of the Shadow as Jungian thought is a principal part of my PhD thesis.
When I was four years old my family disintegrated. I was put into the care of a woman who exercised extraordinary violence. She broke my bones and she would strangle me, thumbs in throat, until something in her was satisfied. Nightmares and flashbacks of her violence followed me for decades. For a time in my teens I lived in a boys' home. Soon after my arrival I was attacked by a group of boys in an initiation rape. I arrived there in a state of passivity, numbed by the violence of my early years and being the target of predators. But this time something snapped and I found myself fighting back. I got a strangle hold on one of the boys and he started to lose consciousness. The others stopped their attack and fought my fingers to release their grip on the boy's neck. I backed away from the group as they roused the injured boy. Something rose to consciousness and in that moment I knew.
I suddenly knew that I could do the same to another boy as that woman had done to me. The discovery was so frightening that I locked that part of myself away more deeply than I had ever done anything. Many years later I met a man who had been part of the management of the boys' home. We chatted and he suddenly said, "I remember you. You were always in your room and we always had to send somebody to get you out."
Locking away became my everyday life. It was a work of grace when Jesus walked into my life in my late teens and started to unlock what I had so securely shut down.
When I touched my truth that I had capacities within me that are so frightening, I did not know how to handle the discovery. One of the deep needs of the human person is to acknowledge the darkness that lies deep within all of us. This is true of communities and of individuals. Carl Jung calls this realisation, The Shadow. The concept of the Shadow is easily misunderstood. The Shadow is not a list of our sins. It is not the sum of our wrongdoing or the reckoning of things that bring us to confession. Those things are already in our conscious thought.
The Shadow is unconscious and can only be known by direct inner experience. The Shadow comes to us in the realisation that we are capable of something frighteningly different.
Let's put guilt and Shadow into perspective. Guilt defines the fence around our behaviour. We stray over the fence, or even approach it, and uncomfortable feelings build up to bring us back. We go too far in the opposite direction and the same thing happens. This is why we can feel guilty for being angry, and feel equally guilty for being passive, its polar opposite. The Shadow is the realisation that we have the capacity to live outside the fence that our guilt defines. Our guilt might have been constructed by parents, our community, or our own imagining that something is bad. The Shadow is not a matter of light and dark, good and bad behaviour. There is good stuff in the Shadow, it's just that we fear it. The story I told of strangling the boy in my teens is not a story of
right or wrong behaviour. My discovery was that I had a dangerous and unimagined power within me. I discovered my power in a highly abusive context, but what might have happened had I discovered that power elsewhere? Five years after I released my hold on that boy's throat I released my hold on the doorframe of an aeroplane and launched myself into nothingness several thousand feet above a skydiving school. I learned to release my hold on tiny projections of rock and climb to the top of vertical cliff faces. I learned I could soften my hold while on a motorcycle racetrack and manage a bike's power without strangling its nimbleness.
The inner power I feared in the boy's home had to find a place of positive expression if it wasn't to emerge in destructive behaviours. This, after all, is the path of many of my current clients. I learned in my infancy that power was dangerous and destructive of children and other living things. When my capacity for similar power emerged in that boys' home I was thrown into frightening territory. I was suddenly beyond the fence that my learned guilt defined for me. So I shut down my personal growth for the next five years. We live our lives in a false sense of manufactured comfort. We are defined by boundaries of seemingly unassailable guilt. The Shadow deep within us is testimony that we are all explorers if we allow ourselves to be so. We can all explore beyond our inner boundaries. That is when we find that our strongest resources are often locked away in a place that we fear. I began with a story of disintegration. Shaping a healthy future means integration.
The diocese is in a particular place of discovery at the moment. We are having to face the fact that people with power over others have gone beyond those boundaries, not to explore their inner strengths but to satisfy power itself. Such exercise of power is destructive instead of positive in the lives of others.
As a diocese, the capacity for power is within us. It has emerged in ways that have been destructive of others. Perhaps it's time to explore how power can be recognised, can be exercised in positive ways, and can be owned as a legitimate part of our shared experience of church.
Seeking Support Discussing child sexual abuse can be difficult. The Royal Commission has reminded us that is especially so for survivors telling their stories for the first time, their families and professional staff supporting them. The Royal Commission provides an extensive list of care and support services which can be found at Support Services. These services connect people with counsellors or special support groups. Services marked as "Government Funded" have been funded by the Australian Government to assist people affected by child abuse.
If you need immediate support call Lifeline on 13 11 14 All services listed are provided by organisations external to the Royal Commission and the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle. For more, visit:
www.newcastleanglicanhealthyfuture.com/seeking-support
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL ANNUAL FLOWER FESTIVAL The Annual Flower Festival at Christ Church Cathedral launched with huge success last month an event which marked the centenary of the ANZAC for 2015. 350 people gathered at the Cathedral to enjoy the offical opening cocktail party, commencing a successful and memorable weekend of festivities. St Michael's "Warrior" Chapel was transformed into a haven of flowers, a poignant place to remember fallen loved ones since the end of World War I. Throughout the Cathedral were elaborate and thoughtful tributes that remembered both wars and other major conflicts since, including Vietnam and Korea. Woven crosses, red floral displays and names of fallen soldiers detailed the displays. A memorial garden to remember lost loved ones took pride of place on the northern and eastern walls of the church, while a
LAKES GRAMMAR Lakes Grammar is an independent, K-12 co-educational Anglican school providing a quality education in an environment that is caring and nurturing as we believe education is about the whole person.
Features of Lakes Grammar include: Affordable fee structure Private School Bus Strong focus on student wellbeing Extra-curricular programs including music, visual arts and sports Technology rich learning environment To arrange a School Tour, please contact our Registrar on 4393 4111. Lakes Grammar - An AnglicAn School Cnr Sparks Rd and Albert Warner Dr Warnervale 2259 T 02 4393 4111 | W www.lakes.nsw.edu.au
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Governor of NSW General David Hurley opens the flower show. Picture: Peter Stoop
mass of greenery representing the Kokoda Track stood between the pews. Festival chairman David Stewart, clearly chuffed with displays, reflected on the many hours it had taken a team of volunteers and sponsors to put it all together. ''The church has incredible memories of the terrors of war, and a lot of people wouldn't know it,'' Mr Stewart said. ''The 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing prompted us to put on the floral festival for the city to remember the past.'' Governor of NSW, David Hurley, opened the event on Thursday night and spoke of the many governors before him who had a connection with the church and the city. He told the crowd the festival was a ''very special occasion'' that ''highlighted history'' and evoked the spirit of mateship.
DIOCESAN CONVENTION 2015 The 2015 Diocesan Convention took place at the Batty Hall at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College in Fletcher on August 15. Around 300 participants from around the Diocese gathered to pray, listen, reflect and engage with important issues which are facing the church in this place. Morning prayer was led by the people of the parish of Wallsend, and offered an opportunity for all to arrive in both body and spirit.
We were fortunate to welcome our guest speaker, Dr Janet Smith, a long term facilitator with the Center for Courage and Renewal based in Seattle USA (www.couragerenewal.org). Janet's professional career as a lecturer in education at university has for many years intertwined with the powerful and transforming philosophy and practices of Quaker educator and theologian, Parker J Palmer. Janet was one of the first Australians to work with the Center for Courage and Renewal, where she is now a Board Member, and senior facilitator. In gentle and generous ways Janet introduced Convention participants to the work of Parker Palmer in books such as The Courage to Teach, A Hidden Wholeness, Let Your Life Speak and Healing the Heart of Democracy.
At the centre of Parker Palmer's work is the desire to promote ways in which we can all live fully and with integrity. One way in which this can be facilitated is through a retreat process which creates a "safe space" for the souls of retreatants to "show up". Parker Palmer, a deeply grounded and reflective writer, is completely aware in his works of how tender and shy the soul can be. In his books, and in the retreats which are offered under the auspices of the Center for Courage and Renewal in the US, in Australia and in New Zealand, he invites participants to explore the relationship between soul and role in the world. We were
offered some tantalising tasters of these processes through individual and small group reflection, and in particular reflecting on the reality of the "tragic gap" in our lives:
"By the 'tragic gap' I mean the gap between the hard realities around us and what we know is possible — not because we wish it were so, but because we've seen it with our own eyes." —Parker J. Palmer (www.couragerenewal.org/the-tragic-gap)
Janet Smith led us gracefully through some core dimensions of Parker Palmer's Circle of Trust® approach, touching lightly on some of the big questions that we can be tempted to leave aside in our busy daily lives. This provided a hugely valuable background to other contributions to the Convention, and in particular to Bishop Greg's presentation on Facing the Past – Shaping a Healthy Future.
Participants were also fortunate to hear from the recentlyappointed Principal, Mr Peter Moulds, about some of the exciting and dynamic developments taking place at BTAC. The commencement of work on the new Housden Building signals the continued growth and development of BTAC as important educational provider in Newcastle. This, combined with the hard work of staff to embed a strong and empowering philosophy of "learn, lead, serve" at BTAC, augurs well for the future of the school as a whole. Convention participants were also brought up to date on experiences of collaborative ministry in the parishes of Belmont North/Redhead and Charlestown, and the ongoing work of CEY Ministries to support parishes in the development of Children's, Youth and Family Ministry. By Katherine Lindsay – Parish of Morpeth
HOSPITAL VISITING AT JOHN HUNTER, BELMONT AND MAITLAND HOSPITALS
The role of hospital visitor is very important, even at times crucial. When we enter a hospital as a patient we lose some control of our decision making, our freedom as we fall into the regimentation of the institution. Usually our anxiety rises due to the many unknown factors that are present as we cope with health issues. It is into this context that a visitor brings empathy, hope and information about the "outside world". Within our Anglican Church we are grateful to our visitors at Maitland, Belmont and John Hunter Hospitals. These are large hospitals which require a significant amount of pastoral care for the patients, staff and visitors. The role of visitor is really the ministry of befriending, being a presence that says "you are not alone in this journey" and "someone cares". It may be Erina: Saturday 31 October that you have some time and the ability to be with 2pm to 4pm people who are unwell. This year on October 29 the Pastoral Care EV Church, 331 Terrigal Drive, Erina Department of John Hunter Hospital will be hosting Courses a one day introduction to this ministry for those who may be wondering if this is for them. The CHC51712 Diploma of Counselling eucharist will be celebrated in the chapel at 9am CHC80208 Graduate Diploma of Relationship Counselling and a number of brief presentations will be given in 10348NAT Graduate Certificate in Professional Supervision Royal Newcastle Centre Conference Room 2. These (Clinical)(Pastoral) will outline some of the practical, pastoral and legal understandings for hospital visitors. Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Contact Fr. Roger Zohrab 4921 3595 or Roger.Zohrab@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au
Counselling & Supervision Info Day
02 6272 6252
www.stmarks.edu.au 25
AROUND THE DIOCESE SPRING: A WEEK OF JOY AND FELLOWSHIP AROUND THE DIOCESE One of the delights of travelling around the Diocese for the Anglican Women's Spring Celebrations has been the beautiful and uplifting worship and fellowship in a variety of churches, and excellent homilies given by their clergy, each with its own special message and challenge. They were off to a flying start at Tea Gardens on September 7; about 50 ladies from the Manning Deanery attended. Michaela Sorensen, a member of the AW Executive and parishioner at Raymond Terrace, was the speaker at all five gatherings. She gave a most interesting and moving talk on her faith journey. Michaela held her audience spellbound with her story of a childhood growing up in the rich traditions of a "High Church" in London; dark times, some rebellion in those teenage years, followed by travel, a rewarding and exciting career, then a lifechanging experience. Michaela moved to Australia in 2011 and settled near Raymond Terrace where she was told to come and look at St John's, "God, what do you want me to do?" Now Michaela is in her year of discernment for the priestly ministry in this Diocese. At Tea Gardens we also heard from Billie Bailey of Tea Gardens who spoke of her experiences with Kairos Outside, a remarkable Christian ministry for women with a relative or friend who is a current or former prison inmate. This pattern continued on through the week, with gatherings at Wallsend (Newcastle/Ncle West & Lake Macquarie Deaneries), Singleton, Maitland and Woy Woy. This was truly a blessed week - the numbers may be down, as congregations age and the younger women are faced with work commitments, but it was a time of learning and challenge as we all endeavour to "bloom where we are planted". By Marion Willey President, Anglican Women
AW executive and Michaela at the Wallsend event
AW Singleton
AW at Woy Woy- Jacky thanks Michaela Sorensen
ST JAMES' MORPETH CELEBRATES 175 YEARS
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The main celebrations for St James' Church anniversary were held on the weekend July 25-26 with a dinner on the Saturday evening and a service in the Church the following morning. 130 guests attended the celebration dinner at East Maitland Bowling Club; 30 of those were descendants of the founder, Edward Close, many of whom had travelled some distance to be present for the entire weekend's activities. Archdeacon Sonia Roulston welcomed the guests at the commencement of the evening. Guest speaker Trevor Richards, a neighbour of the rectory and a local historian, spoke of the early days of Morpeth and showed some very interesting slides of Morpeth. The anniversary church service on St James' Day was a celebration Eucharist with Bishop Greg presiding and preaching an inspired sermon. A special banner made for the occasion was presented in the church and blessed during the service. After the church service the congregation gathered in front of the rectory for an old fashioned picnic. An anniversary cake made and decorated by one of the parishioners was produced and cut by the most senior and most junior parishioner. The young of the parish had such fun with egg and spoon races, sack races, tugs of war and quoits - such a joyful occasion and the sun shone on our celebrations. By Helen Brudenell-Woods
ANGLICAN CARE EXPANDING ITS CARE PORTFOLIO Anglican Care has recently been named the successful proponent for the transfer of 60 existing aged care licenses from Gloucester Hospital.
Ian, Judy (middle) and Claudine (left)
CAR CLUB RAISES FUNDS FOR SAMARITANS WOMEN'S REFUGE The recent Long Run by Taree's Historic Motor Club Inc. resulted in a generous donation to the Taree Women's Refuge, operated by Samaritans to support women and children fleeing domestic violence. Each year the club, which was formed over 30 years ago and has more than 160 members, organises a Long Run named in memory of esteemed member, Neville Gregory. This year's Run was led by Ian Dyball and Judy Richardson with some 54 members travelling in 28 cars to Queensland over an eight day stint. One of the time-held traditions of the Long Run is a Charity Auction to support a local need. Ian and Judy nominated the Taree Women's Refuge as a deserving beneficiary of this year's auction. The auction was held on the final night of the Run, with all items generously donated by members of the Club. Members were entertained by the skills of Bruce Moy, a professional auctioneer who joined them on the Run. He was ably assisted by Don Phillips. Bruce extracted bids from members with great gusto, and everyone enthusiastically joined in the fun to support the cause. Claudine Small, Samaritans Area Coordinator and manager of Taree Women's Refuge said, "I'm delighted and overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and generosity of the Taree Historic Motor Club". A cheque for $2,742.60 was presented to Samaritans by Ian and Judy. "This wonderful donation has enabled us to buy a much-needed washing machine and two upright freezers for the refuge. We've even been able to buy a microwave and to stock the new freezers," said Ms Small. Highlights of the Run included a visit to the Australia Zoo, Maleny Botanic Gardens and Australian Outback Spectacular on the Gold Coast. Members also enjoyed meeting with local car club members. Samaritans congratulates and thanks the car club members who participated in the Long Run and who recognised a need in their local community and responded with such warmth and generosity.
The tender process was run by Hunter New England Health and as a condition of the transfer, Anglican Care will commence negotiations to construct a new, purpose-built aged care facility in Gloucester to match the needs of Gloucester's ageing community. The new facility will meet the needs of all aged care residents, including those with dementia and challenging behaviours. Anglican Care is delighted at the prospect of increasing services to welcome residents from Hillcrest Nursing Home, Narraweema and Kimbarra Lodge Hostel.
"It will be an exciting time for both Anglican Care and the community in Gloucester as we start planning the development of a state-of-the-art new facility for residents and work toward addressing the shortage of accommodation going in to the future," said Anglican Care CEO Colin Osborne of the tender success.
"This has been a very thorough process, and Anglican Care is extremely proud to be named as the successful applicant. We look forward to working with Hunter New England Local Health District to progress the project and to turn this goal into a reality." "Anglican Care provide excellent care and a quality lifestyle for residents across the wider Diocesan catchment of Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, the Central Coast, Taree, Maitland, and are excited at the prospect of increasing their geographic footprint across the whole Diocese," said the Right Reverend Greg Thompson, Anglican Bishop of Newcastle. Gloucester Hospital will continue to provide aged care until a new, purpose-built facility is finished and ready to accept residents. A committee, the Gloucester Joint Aged Care Transition Planning Team, has been formed to guide transition planning in the coming three years. The Planning Team consists of representatives from both Hunter New England Health and Anglican Care and will work collaboratively to prepare for the transfer of licences, aged care residents and staff once the new Anglican Care facility has been commissioned.
The Planning Team will also provide feedback and comments on the design of the new aged care facility.
In further development and growth news, progress continues on Kilpatrick Court, Anglican Care's Residential aged care development at Toronto with the expected opening in March 2016, providing 147 aged care places which are greatly needed in the Lake Macquarie area.
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
HARRINGTON-COOPERNOOK FATHERS' DAY MEMORIAL The Anglican Parish of Harrington/Coopernook hosted its annual Fathers' Day Memorial Service on August 23. Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC) students Zade & Harmony Bean, Justin & Gordon Rose and Benny & Mandy Wu helped with the leading of the prayers and the Gospel reading before the congregation of approximately 60 parishioners and visitors. Parish Priest Father Steve Niland welcomed the MVAC students and explained how this touching act of worship was meeting a
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significant pastoral for those who were grieving the loss of a father or grandfather within the communities served by the Harrington/ Coopernook Anglican Parish. "Manning Valley Anglican College was privileged to be a part of this special liturgy and we appreciated the hospitality of Fr Steve and his parishioners," said MVAC chaplain Greg Anderson. "This was one of a number of ways in which the College continues to link our students with local Anglican congregations across the Manning and Great Lakes region."
POPPY LADIES NOW RUGRATS The ladies of the Parish of Forster Tuncurry were the driving force in making over 17,000 poppies for the 100th Anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli this year.
With such a motivated and friendly group, the thinking caps were put on and the craft ladies are now making useful items to help those in the community. So far they have delivered knitted and crocheted rugs, bed socks and shawls to residents of local nursing homes.
One of the residents stated "I am so grateful that I have been given a gift which is not only warm, but made with love, for me." The craft group meet every Tuesday from 10am-12pm at St Alban's Church Hall, Forster. No matter what your skill level, you are most welcome.
A STITCH IN TIME AT FORSTER
Doreen Ovens has been embroidering names of parishioners and friends from the Anglican Parish of Forster Tuncurry for many years now. The project began as a fund raising activity for the Parish. Doreen has now embroidered over 1,010 signatures and more have put their names forward to be added. Doreen has donated well over $1,000 to the Parish. Thank you Doreen for your dedication and contribution our Parish.
LAKES GRAMMAR EXPANSION
Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School has experienced rapid growth throughout its first decade and is now about to embark on the next phase of development which will see an expansion to four-streaming for Year 7 2016. It has been the school's vision for a number of years to expand the Senior School at this major intake year, and due to strong demand this has become a reality for 2016. Building works will be undertaken immediately to facilitate this expanded year group and almost one-quarter of the Year 7 cohort next year will be joining the school from outside our existing community. "This is a major step forward for our school and provides an exciting dynamic for Year 7 students next year. The school for the first time this year has a full three-stream Year 6 group that will be moving through which depicts the strong growth that has been occurring at a Junior School level. "The growth in the Senior School will allow us to further expand some
of our subject selection offerings which will shortly include highly sought subjects such as Textiles and Design and Drama. These will round off the comprehensive subject offering already available" said Mr Michael Hannah, Principal. The building works being undertaken represent Stage 9 of the school's Master Plan. Recent announcements around the Warnervale Town Centre and other major projects in the area demonstrate the strong future opportunities that currently exist, and these building works are just another example of the exciting growth occurring in the region. Positions for Year 7 2016 are still available. If you wish to take a school tour or find out more about Lakes Grammar, please visit the website or contact our Registrar, Racquel Jolly on 4393 4111.
10TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION FOR REV'D GLEN HUGHES On August 23 the parish of Merriwa celebrated along with Rev'd Glen, Jo , Thomas and Isabelle the 10th Anniversary of Glen's ordination to the ministry. The original ordination took place on the feast day of St. Bartholomew hence our celebrations on this date. "We are very Blessed to have Rev'd Glen as our Shepherd in this parish of Merriwa," Rosalie Drew spoke on behalf of the parish. Congratulations to Glen as you celebrate 10yrs of ordained ministry.
ANGLICAN GEORGETOWN MEN'S BREAKFAST On the August 8, Georgetown men hosted a breakfast with 45 men attending from several parishes around the Diocese as well as from other denominations to hear Bishop Bill Wright (Catholic Bishop of Maitland) talk about his life before and now as a Bishop. Next Breakfast will be held October 10th commencing 7.30am for 7.45am. Guest Speaker will be Robert Joice. For further information contact Trevor Motum on tar@tpg.com.au
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PUZZLE
Gospel of Mark BY THE REV'D JUDY WALSH
ACROSS
1. The man lowered from the roof for Jesus to heal was? 4. What happened to John the Baptist? 6. How many chapters are there in Mark's Gospel? 8. Normally Jesus spoke in which language? 12. The word "Gospel" means? 15. Jesus was not only a great miracle worker but also a great? 16. Mark omits which significant part of Jesus' life? 19. What type of place does Jesus go to pray? DOWN
1. Jesus tells us to live with one another in? 2. What type of cloth did Joseph wrap Jesus' body in? 3. On what day did Jesus heal the man with the shrivelled hand? 5. What type of tree did Jesus use as an example in Chapters 11 and 13? 7. How many times did Jesus predict his own death in Mark's Gospel? 9. Name of the small seed Jesus speaks of in chapter 4? 10. Name of the river John baptised Jesus in? 11. Mark's Gospel records more of these than any other gospel? 12. People who are not Jews generally are ? 13. Where did the seeds fall that the birds ate? 14. Who was Jesus speaking of when he said 'let them come to me'? 16. What did John do with water that Jesus did with the Holy Spirit? 17. When was Mark's Gospel believed to be written in relation to the other Gospels? 18. Who introduces Jesus in Mark's Gospel?
AUGUST PUZZLE ANSWER: MISSIONS
BOOK REVIEW
"Forming Intentional Disciples – The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus" REVIEW BY THE REV'D LES FORESTER
What an inspiring and energising book!
The author works to awaken the Catholic Church in the USA to its calling to be evangelistic. If church members are to draw others to a relationship with Jesus, then they themselves must first be evangelised. The aim of this book is to help Church leaders to transform the parish life from within. It helps if those who are being called upon to employ the gifts of the Spirit in mission and ministry are themselves intentional disciples. Weddell observes that there is more to being a Christian than receiving the sacrament of baptism and being taught the Christian faith. At some stage we need to be converted, whether that occurs at a point in time or over time. Recent Popes have pointed out the need for a "New Evangelisation" for those who have grown up in a church culture but have not become disciples. Pope John Paul II wrote, "It is possible for baptised Catholics to be without any explicit personal attachment to Jesus Christ."
Weddell believes that somehow a culture of silence about Jesus and conversion has made it normal for Catholics to have made a sacramental journey, and to even serve in the local parish, but to be struck dumb when it comes to speaking of their intimate personal relationship with Jesus. While finding the words of witnessing to the faith may be difficult for those who are disciples,
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it is impossible for those yet to surrender their all to Jesus.
Weddell outlines five steps for postmodern converts: Initial trust, spiritual curiosity, spiritual openness, spiritual seeking and intentional discipleship. She offers us two questions for breaking the silence in our efforts to have a conversation of witness: "Where are you up to in your relationship with God?" and "If you could ask God one question that you knew he would answer right away, what would it be?" Highly recommended, and likely to stir preachers and church members to invite people to come to explicit faith in Jesus.
Sherry A. Weddell, Published by Our Sunday Visitor, USA, 2012.
RECIPE
Strawberry shortbread frozen yogurt Prep 20 mins plus at least 4 hrs freezing, no cook Easy | Serves 8 - 10 You don't need an ice cream machine to make this easy frozen dessert, topped with freeze-dried strawberries and crushed biscuits. INGREDIENTS 550g strawberries, hulled 500g pot Greek yogurt 397g can condensed milk 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 200ml double cream 8 shortbread biscuits, crushed (optional) 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberry pieces (optional) METHOD 1. Put 400g strawberries in a food processor and blitz to a smooth purée. Chop the remaining strawberries into small pieces and set aside. Add the yogurt, condensed milk and vanilla to the processor and whizz again to combine. 2. Pour the cream into a bowl and lightly whip until it's just holding its shape. Add roughly one-third of the strawberry mixture, fold together with a spatula, then add the remaining strawberry mixture and the chopped strawberries and mix again. 3. Pour half into a freezer-proof container, scatter over half the shortbread pieces, if using, and half the freeze-dried
Dates for your diary OCTOBER
4 Annual Service for Animals, Christ Church Cathedral The annual service for animals will be held on at 6pm in Christ Church Cathedral. Animals are welcome. 9-11 Anglican Care Auxiliary 35th Annual Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale, Booragul Anglican Care Auxiliary will hold the exhibition and sale on Oct 9, 10, 11 in Timbury Hall, Anglican Care village Booragul. Cash prizes for art and a wide range of craft and art for sale. Morning teas and light lunches. Entry donation $3. Enquiries 4958 6300. The Auxiliary raises funds to support Anglican Care villages throughout the diocese. 10 Scrapbook and Card Making workshop, Church of the Good Shepherd, Kotara South Workshops will be held on 10/10 and 7/11 from 1pm – 4pm. Cost $15 includes all materials. Enquire now for new class in Toukley. Contact Lauren Austin PH. 447 1980 or email: laurenaustin237@outlook.com 10 Fete, St Martin's Kahibah St Martin's Church is holding a fete, 9am–3pm at Hexham St Kahibah. Plants, white elephant, bottles, Christmas, handy craft. Lucky dips, face painting, balloons, jumping castle, BBQ, monster raffle. Music to spur people on! Contact John and Robin Ross 4957 6187 or rossjr@bigpond.com
strawberries, then cover with the remaining yogurt mixture, crushed shortbread and freeze- dried strawberries. Freeze for at least 4 hrs until solid. Remove from the freezer 10-15 mins before scooping. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Recipe from Good Food magazine, June 2015
24 Notice of Annual General Meeting of the Friends of the Monastery Stroud Saturday 24 October at 10.00am. Gunya Chiara Building. The Old Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary Stroud. All welcome. Enquiries: 4994 5511 or 4934 2658 30 Gaslight, Lambton The Friends of the Samaritans' last fundraiser of the year will be a Victorian Thriller Gaslight. This will be staged by the Newcastle Theatre company,at 90 DeVitre St. Lambton. The play will commence at 8pm, with champagne and nibbles served at 7.30pm. Tickets $30, can be bought from The Samaritans 4960 7100 or Anne Clarke 4963 1672. 31 Fiacre's Feast Free Community Garden 2320, Rutherford
A project of the Anglican Parish of Telarah and Rutherford presents Introduction to Permaculture. 9am-1pm. (Saturday November 28 Introduction to Composting 9am-1pm). Cost $10 (includes morning tea). St Christopher's Anglican Church corner of Verge and Gillies Streets, Rutherford. Workshop Leaders - Kate Beveridge and Mark Brown from Purple Pear Farm (permaculture in action). Bookings Mother Moira 4932 8604.
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WEEKEND OF PRAYER FOR SCHOOL SCRIPTURE (SRE) IN NSW PUBLIC SCHOOLS
OCTOBER 17 & 18 2015 PRAY AND PROMOTE!
PRAY TOGETHER PROMOTE SRE AT OR ALONE YOUR CHURCH
"I would encourage everyone to join in the Weekend of Prayer for SRE" - Rt Rev'd Greg Thompson, Anglican Bishop of Newcastle
Get involved at your church in 2015 WWW.HUNTERSRE.ORG.AU
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