The Spirit - December 2014

The

monthly Anglican Diocese of Bendigo

december 2014

issue 106

All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.” (Matthew 1: 22-23)

St Mary’s Woodend Sesquicentenary Celebrations Ian Howarth

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ne hundred and fifty years of Christian ministry at St Mary’s Woodend was celebrated on 9 November. A wonderful crowd gathered in this iconic bluestone church to celebrate God’s goodness over these years.

The service was enhanced by the offerings of St Mary’s singing group, while current and former parishioners and former priests, together with local dignitaries and representatives from other faith traditions, gladly rejoicing at this special milestone.

Bishop Andrew Curnow presided at the eucharist, assisted by the Revds Ian Howarth and Heather Vander Reest.

During the service Ian was commissioned as Central Highlands Cluster Team Leader, and Heather as Associate Priest.

Inside: A bi-ministry wedding page 5

A new flagpole and peace garden was also dedicated. The flagpole sported an Anglican flag, whilst the peace garden bloomed roses. A special plaque marked the occasion, while a white garden seat enhanced this specially designed garden.

As Bishop Andrew dedicated the garden, we released purple and white balloons that sailed over the church rooftop.

Identical: The replica cake of St Mary’s A strong and enthusiastic contingent from Kyneton parish also joined in the celebrations. Their presence was an acknowledgement of the newly formed cluster, which brings together Woodend, Trentham, Kyneton and Malmsbury.

Royal Commission experience page 6

A vast luncheon was enjoyed in the Norma Richardson Hall, where many stories and anecdotes of past times and happy memories were shared. Kevin wrote, played and sang a special song written for the occasion.

The day marked a particular note of positivity, as the newly formed cluster forges ahead in a new venture of ministry and mission together.

Understanding other faiths page 10

The Incarnation: a Christmas reflection page 13

The Bishop writes and comments to a halfpenny, putting the sending of cards within the reach of most people.

Dear Friends,

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s the heads of agapanthus plants shoot up and begin to erupt, it is a sure sign that Christmas is on the horizon. In some countries the agapanthus is called the ‘Star of Bethlehem’ because of its shape and colour, although we mostly have purple and white in our part of the world.

The origins of Christmas as we now celebrate it are interesting. Rowland Purton, in From Autumns and Winter Days, puts it as follows.

The name Christmas first appeared in early English as Cristes Maesse, the Mass or celebration of the birth of Christ, in the 11th Century AD. The date of it varied from one country to another, but eventually most agreed that it should be 25 December, though Russian and Greek Orthodox and some other churches decided to keep the festival in January (Epiphany).

It is customary today for Christians to celebrate the festival with special services in church - midnight mass or holy communion, family services on Christmas Eve and services on Christmas Day. The services remind us of the birth of Jesus, coming into the world as the one who is the ‘Light of the World’. Many churches have a simple crib at this season as a reminder that the Son of God knew hardship from the beginning.

Interestingly, the idea of Christmas trees, and of cards being sent at this time of the year are relatively new traditions, having originated in England and spreading to Australia during the time of Queen Victoria. The first card is said to have been sent in the post in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole. It took nearly another thirty years to really become a tradition when postage was reduced 2

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As far as Christmas trees becoming a decoration within homes, this was originally a German custom dating back to the 8th century. A few Christmas trees had been seen in Britain before 1841, but that Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, had one at Windsor Castle in that year ensured their popularity. Trees were decorated with tinsel, brightly coloured baubles, and candles, which were said to be the twinkling of the stars in the night sky over Bethlehem.

Nowadays there is a profusion of decorations, and electric lights have replaced candles. Although we are swamped with the commercialism of Christmas, we should not despair and just rail against it. Christmas provides the churches and the Christian community with much opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Many parishes report that family services on Christmas Eve are well supported, and this is encouraging. Services on Christmas Day are declining as our more than ever mobile society whizzes all over the country to have family events on the day.

Christmas is also a time to know and understand that many people experience hardship. Our Lord was not born on a bed of roses or in a beautiful delivery suite. He was, as Luke’s gospel says, born in a stable, which in those days meant just about being born on the street! Jesus knew hardship, as did Mary and Joseph.

This is why we remember the plight of others at this time, and give generously to a range of appeals.

The great news of Christmas is that God came among us as a human being.

As the Book of Revelation records:

See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them!

In the midst of all of life, God is among us!

With every blessing for Christmas and 2015,

W

e have a new State Government in Victoria.

Out of the election there are some interesting learnings: 1. Political parties should never take the electorate for granted.

The election of a Greens candidate in the seat of Melbourne and an Independent in Shepparton are a reminder that the electorate will, in the end, determine when parties become unresponsive to the true interests of local communities.

2. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Voters, more than ever, are easily disenchanted when promises are made before an election, and then either don’t deliver the commitments or substantially change them. This leaves a very disenchanted electorate.

3. More and more voters want a clear vision from government as to the direction they wish to take the state and pork barrelling in an electoral campaign is having less impact.

New Premier, Daniel Andrews, has a huge task ahead of him and whatever our political leanings, please pray for the new Victorian Government, Opposition and Parliament.

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Monthly newsmagazine of the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo

Address: The Spirit, PO Box 2, Bendigo 3552 Member, Australian Religious Press Association Telephone: 03 5443 4711 General: thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au Editor: The Revd Dr Charles Sherlock charlesherlock@gmail.com Committee Chair: The Revd Canon Bryn Jones The Spirit is published in the first week of the month (excluding January).

Advertising rates are available from the Editor. All advertisements are accepted at the Editor’s discretion; acceptance does not imply endorsement of the product or service.

Contributions are welcome, and will be edited. Email contributions are preferred.

Anonymous articles will not be considered for publication.

Photographs should be sent in digital form to the general email address above.

Full size, ‘raw’ files are necessary. Physical photos are normally not returned.

The Anglican Diocese of Bendigo and the Editor are not responsible for opinions expressed by contributors, nor do these necessarily reflect the policy of the diocese Contributions for the next issue must be submitted by Friday 23 January.

december 2014

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All Saints sold Sarah Crutch

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he historic All Saints’ Old Cathedral in View Street Bendigo has been sold. The site was the first place of Anglican worship in Bendigo, so its sale marks a significant moment in diocesan history.

Mock wedding: Bishop Ron Church-hall, ‘newlyweds’ Mrs & Mr Church-hall and Mrs Lisbeth Church-hall

Gannawarra Cluster reconnects with local communities Simon Robinson

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evival in Quamby

Key leaders in Quambatook Church looked around late last year and realised that action was needed if the church was to keep its witness alive in town. To this end they’ve stuck to a three point plan: • provide something for kids every Sunday; • run a fully resourced Sunday School during church for four Sundays each school term; • and provide a free evening community meal with a brief Christian message at the pool, campfire or park once a month – and invite people personally.

This has seen a very positive lift in the church’s community profile, and engaged a whole host of new people.

As a side project, Katrina Robinson led an adventurous team of Quamby cooks in a ‘Pizza Masterclass’, making the base from scratch with 22 kids and 10 adults. Yes, we survived!

We have been blown away by the growth in our church. We encourage you all: keep it simple; keep at it!

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ohuna: wedding of the year

October saw the mock wedding breakfast of Simon Church-hall and Katrina Cranmer. Random passersby would have believed that an actual wedding had taken place. It

was a 1950s-style wedding feast in every detail – down to the cocktail nibblies skewered to orange halves, jellied beetroot and a maiden aunt bemoaning her singleness!

Cohuna parish fed 110 people a four-course sit-down meal. MC John Worrall capably guided us through an evening of fine feasting, singing and hearty wedding speeches – Bp Ron Church-hall being best received. The night concluded with the ‘newlyweds’ being whisked away in a hotted up V8. If you want ideas on how to do parish dinners with flair and panache give Bev and Raylene, our fairy godmothers, a call.

K

erang: it’s fete

“The sale is the culmination of a long period of uncertainty about the future of the Old Cathedral site,” Bishop Andrew said. “When a decision was made in 1981 to move cathedrals, a decision should have then been made as to the future of the site. It wasn’t, and this has meant a long period of gestation which has now been resolved.”

Since the relocation of the cathedral to St Paul’s in 1981, and the closure of All Saint’s parish in 1989, the site has been under-utilised, and was no longer required by the diocese.

The process to get the site ready for sale dates back to 2012. A conservation management plan, prepared by Dr Gary Hill, provided an assessment of the cultural heritage significance of the area, in anticipation for a change of use for the site. The large block was subdivided to separate the Old Cathedral and vacant land at the rear, from the two red brick buildings, formerly the school and master’s residence.

Rezoning of the site was undertaken to change its status from ‘special use’ to a ‘commercial’ one, thereby giving an opportunity for business or residential uses in future.

If you want a great churchcommunity interface that might make a bit of dough accidentally, it’s hard to beat a good fete. St John’s turns on the barbeque, music, jumble sale, kids games, face painting, plant and produce and books stalls, killer Devonshire teas, cakes and crafts.

The site was offered in two lots, the first being the school and master’s residence, sold at auction in March.

All Saints’ itself was passed in at auction, and had been on the market for nine months before an offer was received and accepted by the Diocesan Executive.

We had hundreds of people file through – and linger long – for an enjoyable spring family evening. A happy rivalry has emerged between Leslie’s cadre of crack cake cooks and the underdogs, the Rector’s barbequing barbarians, in an attempt to outdo each other. Come witness this royal rumble again next autumn.

“The diocese is extremely grateful to the work of those who contributed to making the site suitable for sale,” said Registrar Anne Baker. “Property Manager Greg McKerlie has overseen the whole process, including the subdivision of the site, along with David Johnstone, who assisted in managing planning applications to the City of Greater Bendigo Council.”

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Getting it all together at Underbool Nita Wandel, Chairperson, Underbool congregation.

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hings were working well at Underbool with Uniting Church and Anglican buildings being used alternate months for services over the past 20 years.

But there was perhaps a small dilemma with fewer numbers and an ageing congregation unable to cope with maintaining both buildings.

Maybe God saw this, because out of the blue came an offer from a young local couple to purchase the lovely 89 year old limestone Uniting building, to make it their home.

After much prayer, soul searching and congregation meetings, it was recommended to Central Mallee Co-operative Parish that the offer be accepted, leaving the Anglican building as the sole building for worship. Thus was set in motion the very big task of organising the sale and a closing service.

Eight months later on 30 June 2014, a very meaningful closing service was held, led by the Underbool congregation assisted by Father Gary Fordham and Mr Max Cooke, Chairperson of Loddon/Mallee UCA Presbytery. Over 120 people attended: many who had left the district returned as the Underbool Uniting / Methodist church has much history, and was dear to so many.

At the end of the service congregation members carried out a removal of and thanksgiving for the elements and symbols of the church, many of which would be transferred to the Anglican church in due course.

A luncheon akin to a feast followed, at the Underbool/Linga Hall.

A successful auction of other church furniture, including all the pews, was held a week later. Two weeks later the new owners were handed the keys to the building. A kitchenette and toilet area had to be incorporated into the Anglican building, and is now completed.

So it was with much delight that on Sunday 2 November, All Saints’ day, a special consecration service of the Uniting Church elements and items took place in the Anglican church building. Once again it was organised and participated in by the Underbool congregation. Father Gary Fordham offered prayers of dedication over the baptismal font, communion elements, cross, hymn board, items of hospitality in the new kitchen area, our history records and artefacts and items of furniture etc.

Mrs Joy Poole, the Chairperson of PAT, gave a message of encouragement and congratulations for the ‘work in progress’ unique transition that has taken place. The day concluded with a delicious lunch served from our new kitchenette area.

We pray that God will continue to bless and guide this combined congregation through the years to come.

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Congregation: The congregation that attended the consecration service 4

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december 2014

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A UK PILGRIMAGE “Cathedrals, Canticles and Choristers” with The Very Reverend Anne Wentzel 12 - 29 May 2015 Enjoy the choirs of Wakefield, York, Durham, Lincoln, Peterborough, Norwich, Canterbury and Westminster Abbey.

Visit Coventry, Bede’s World, Stratford, Chapel of Julian of Norwich and Nottingham Castle.

Wed: Pictured with the bride and groom are members of the Ministry Formation Group. L-R Ross Craven, Denis Gell, Sandra Field, Sue Allan, Bishop Ron, Sharon and Ben, Robyn Davis, Pamela Lawry and Geoff Chittenden.

Enquiries: Olive Tree Travel 03 84889696, or bxdean@ix.net.au or 0439901655

Bicultural bi-ministry wedding Bishop Ron

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he Reverend Sharon Phillips married Mr Ben Larijani – each surrounded by family, friends and parishioners – in a moving marriage service held in St James’ Church, Tongala on Saturday 8 November.

Presiding at the service was the Revd Trevor Bell from Mooroopna, where Ben was a parishioner and where Sharon had been a colleague in ministry. Sharon’s daughters - Caitlyn, Rachael and April - presented their mother for marriage, participated as witnesses and readers, and April sang during the signing of the Register.

While most of Ben’s family live in Iran and were unable to be present, they sent greetings that were conveyed

by Siavash Jandeh-Razmi, Ben’s best man. An Iranian poem was read during the service as two lives and

cultures were joined together.

Members of the senior Ministry Formation Group, tutored by Sharon and Bishop Ron, were present to support their colleague. Bishop Ron gave the occasional address, speaking about three loyalties upon which a Christian marriage is built.

Following refreshments, speeches were made that demonstrated the love and affection in which both Sharon and Ben are held, and applause was given as best wishes were extended to the couple as they began their married life.

The Diocese of Bendigo expects the highest standards of professional service from its Clergy and Lay Ministers.

IF YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT Please call (free)

1800 135 246

A phone call to the above number will mean that your complaint will be handled by the Director of Professional Standards.

The Diocese is a full participant in the Victorian Anglican Provincial Abuse and Harassment Protocol.

This is an independent, objective procedure adopted by the Diocese of Bendigo.

Maiden Gully milestones Roger Rich

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n the last two months the Common Ground congregation at Maiden Gully has celebrated more significant milestones.

Several of our older children finished a study course and were admitted to holy communion.

Six people were baptised in a parishioner’s pool, with lots of family and friends gathered. Older children sat on the edge of the pool and sang before Brendan McDonald baptised the candidates.

Admitted: Annalee Phillips, Faith McDonald, AnnaLisa Rich-Jones, Olivia Briggs, Bethany McDonald. Back row: Joel and Caleb Green, Isobella Rich-Jones.

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Royal Commission appearance

Bishop Ron Stone recently appeared to give evidence before the Royal Commission into the Institutional Response to Child Abuse and reflects on the experience.

Bishop Ron Stone

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ppearing before a Royal Commission was not something I ever imagined having to do. I won’t go into details of the terrible things I heard, as details of the case have been made public through the media. That is most appropriate, for it’s essential that the truth must come out if abuse of any person is to be addressed.

I had to turn back to 1995 to prepare a sworn statement to the Commission, which arranged my travel to Hobart where it was meeting at the Federal Court. The public gallery of the court was full and there was a row of barristers representing the Commission and their clients, victims of abuse, with elevated seating for two senior judges.

I was invited to the witness box and was sworn in. I was asked if my sworn statement was correct. Then the barrister began a cross examination that continued for around an hour, as every part of the statement was tested.

Then the two judges asked me, as a senior and experienced bishop, what I hoped would come out of the Commission’s findings, and what changes I felt the Anglican Church needed to make. It was an honour to be accorded the opportunity to make such a response, and also a responsibility, as I know our present National provisions, while very good, wouldn’t have helped this person.

Many have asked how I felt at the Royal Commission. Was it harrowing? Yes. But the harrowing part was learning what victims go through. Was I nervous? Yes, but I was conscious of those praying for me, for clarity of mind and courage.

The highlight was meeting, for the first time, the man who sought my assistance in 1995. We met in a private room with his wife. We embraced each other and cried together. I’d like to meet this lovely couple again.

Although they live interstate, they read The Spirit, and commented on Beating around the bush so maybe that meeting will be possible.

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‘Protect children!’

Bendigo MU hosts passionate professor on preventing child abuse Ronda Gault

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rofessor Freda Briggs shared information that took most listeners out of their comfort zones when she spoke in Bendigo on Monday 3 November.

Those who attended one of her two sessions would have found it difficult to put into words how they felt after the session ended. I left wondering, “How many children, of any age, are tonight silently screaming out for someone to see what is happening to them and do something to stop it?”

Professor Briggs’ address should have been mandatory for all who are connected with children in any way in this region. As with so many things in life which one may not have experienced, this informed, involved and passionate lady’s presentation was truly unbelievable.

In our day and age we trust those in charge of protecting children to do just that - protect children! This is so whether we are parents, teachers, lawyers, social workers, advocates, judges, police officers, GP’s or clergy .

Freda presented evidence that abuse can cause damage to the brain of a young child leading to a high incidence of mental and physical illnesses. She showed that child sexual abuse in Victoria is increasing at an alarming rate, including childto-child abuse, often involving children of a very young age.

She made it clear that we all have the responsibility to raise awareness, be vigilant, listen to, and understand

Protect: Professor Freda Briggs speaking at the MU event Her aim is to provide better prevention and early intervention, and ensure that the focus is always about the needs and welfare of the child, and not about the perpetrator or looking for someone else to blame.

Freda showed why all organisations dealing with children must have a Child Protection Policy. Likewise, all schools need to have a child safety curriculum for parents and children in their health programme, implemented by trained staff and updated at regular intervals.

This curriculum is compulsory in South Australia: NSW Queensland and New Zealand have similar programmes.

The irony is that Professor Briggs introduced a programme to Victoria 30 years ago, but while it was adopted by police, it was not taken up by the Education Department.

How many children, of any age, are tonight silently screaming out for someone to see what is happening to them and do something to stop it? what children say and do. If a child exhibits behaviours which are concerning this must be reported to police or child protection services.

Young victims may draw what is happening in their lives, providing examples of significant features that are indicative of abuse.

december 2014

Mothers’ Union is grateful to Girton Grammar Headmaster, Mr Matthew Maruff, for allowing us to use the comfortable Lecture Theatre in the Naunton Family Building, and to Kim Henry of the Junior School for liaising with the planning team and looking after its fine details, giving up her own time to ensure all went without a hitch.

www.bendigoanglican.org.au

Cursillo at Cohuna – the garden of Eden

Marilyn Hornsby

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n inspiring Welcome Day took place at Cohuna to welcome new people (Cursillistas) who had attended the recent Cursillo threeday weekend in Maldon.

It all started on Friday evening, when nine team members and candidates from the Women’s 28 Cursillo threeday weekend arrived from Mildura.

One couple stayed in the Cohuna caravan park overlooking the Gunbower Creek, while others had home hospitality, with equally good views. We were treated to a viewing of the film Mary meets Mohammad shown by the Refugee Support Group at Cohuna church.

Saturday morning saw more than 60 members of Bendigo Diocese Cursillo Movement enthusiastically gathered at Cohuna church hall. The day began with lots of great songs from Mission Praise, information talks, more singing, a question time, more singing and a skit by four beautiful

angels. Then all indulged in a superb bring and share lunch. What could be better than catching up with friends from around the diocese? There is always great enthusiasm when happy Christian people gather together, especially if they have experienced a Cursillo three-day weekend.

During the afternoon we split up into small groups for a discussion time, followed by more singing. A very enthusiastic, motivated and uplifted group of people filled Cohuna Church that afternoon, ready and re-vitalised to take on the fourth day of the rest of their lives.

The afternoon finished at 3.30pm with a cuppa and more fellowship and renewing of friendships.

Saturday night saw 29 people accept the invitation to join in a barbecue with Cohuna parishioners at the Hornsbys’ home on the banks of the Gunbower Creek. A very enjoyable evening – even with a call to the RACV late in the evening.

The Sunday service at Cohuna church was boosted by Cursillo ‘stragglers’, and what a powerful and uplifting service they were treated to. It completed a great weekend for everyone who attended.

The Cursillo movement is a wonderful tool in the Anglican Church to motivate and re-vitalise Christians in their faith walk and for sharing the name of Christ in their communities.

If you feel you need some personal revitalising, I recommend you consider a Cursillo three-day weekend, or attend a Cursillo get-together (‘Ultreya’) and find extra emotional support from like-minded Christian people who will confidentially listen, support and comfort you.

For further information, contact Sue Turner, the Diocesan Lay Director, or the Revd Ross Craven, Diocesan Cursillo Spiritual Advisor. They or others would be only too willing to talk to you or your church.

Dunolly marks 145 years in style Andrew Eaton

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he service booklets ran out at St John’s Dunolly on St Andrew’s Day, 30 November, as a full house gathered to celebrate 145 years of public worship in one of the most beautiful churches in the central goldfields.

Visitors from Melbourne and Ballarat joined a strong crowd from Dunolly and elsewhere in the Maryborough-Avoca parish. Bishop Andrew preached and

presided, with Revd Andrew Eaton and Canon Sandra Field assisting.

The Bishop speculated that the Dunolly church, which began construction in 1868, may have been finished in 1869 from proceeds from the Welcome Stranger Nugget, although this could not be confirmed by locals afterwards!

Octogenarian Hartley Davey rocked some classic Advent hymns on the Fincham organ (installed in 1869). The

congregation was in full voice, with the operatic vocals of local Rachel Buckley providing a descant of which the Tallis Scholars would have been proud.

Afterwards, lunch and many tales were shared, including some reminiscing

by Alison Owen, the grand-daughter of Dunolly’s second priest, the Revd Poynder (1869-1874), as well as from Rosalyn and Murray, children of the Revd Francis Morton (1938-1941).

Local Joyce Wilmott was chosen to cut the cake to finish of the celebrations.

L-R: The congregation at St John’s Dunolly; Andrew Eaton, Bishop Andrew and Sandra Field 7

Around the Diocese

Cathedral restoration works underway

Over the past two weeks there has been significant action at St Paul’s Cathedral, as the restoration process continues.

Inside, stump holes have been dug and concreted to allow the floor framework to be established. Outside, significant work has been undertaken to address recurring drainage issues, which have stalled much of the restoration process to date. A trench was dug at the back of the cathedral to redirect storm water, with a retaining wall built to ensure that issues around water entering the cathedral foundations are resolved.

The next stages of the restoration include the reticulation of electrical wiring, poulticing of the lower walls to remove excessive salt build-up, followed by rendering of the walls and the construction of the floor of the sanctuary.

- Sarah Crutch Work: Tradesmen inside St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Mitiamo takes on new life Ivanhoe Grammar School has purchased St Paul’s Mitiamo, to be used as a chapel at their Plenty Campus.

The building, which was sold in April, was removed from its home at Mitiamo earlier in the month and transported to the school grounds.

“It is very good that the church building will continue to be used for worship, and in an Anglican school,” said Registrar Anne Baker. “We look forward to seeing the former St Paul’s in action as their new chapel.”

- Sarah Crutch

Moved: St Paul’s Mitiamo being relocated to Ivanhoe

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december 2014

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Around the Parishes

‘Bible in the Bush’, seven years on

Sunraysia South parish recently held its seventh annual ‘Bible in the Bush’ teaching weekend, with total numbers again reaching the 100 mark. The parish is achieving its goal of providing top quality Bible teaching so that lives may be transformed by God. The main focus in 2014 was addresses from Bishop Trevor Edwards from Canberra, on ‘Famous Last Words’ based on John’s gospel. Grant Hay, who ministers amongst indigenous people in South Australia, spoke of his work, which is sponsored by the Bush Church Aid Society, and the Revd Roger Rich led workshops on healing ministry.

Each year the weekend grows in many ways, and the relationships that are developing amongst the participants is encouraging to see. Well done to the organisers as they take a short break before beginning to plan ‘Bible in the Bush’ for 2015.

- Dale Barclay

Music: Musicians play during ‘Bible in the Bush’

New kitchen for St Martin’s Charlton The congregation of St Martin’s Charlton is thrilled to have a new kitchen. After the floods of 2011 the hall was deemed to be unsafe and was eventually pulled down. This meant there wasn’t anywhere to wash the dishes after the morning fellowship.

A new kitchen has been built in the meeting room of the church.

Bishop Ron Stone came on St Martin’s day, 11 November, to bless the new kitchen, preaching about hospitality in his sermon. We hope that he and his wife, Lisbeth, experienced some hospitality when a cup of tea and a chat was held after the service of blessing.

- Beth Crutch

Blessed: Bishop Ron and Peter Bertram in the new kitchen

Rose Show and Strawberry Fair at St Arnaud St Arnaud’s Rose Show and Strawberry Fair, sponsored by Christ Church Old Cathedral, was held this year on 30 October in the Town Hall. All money raised from this event was distributed to mission projects.

While it has been a bad year this year weatherwise, with unseasonable hot dry winds and little rain, the roses were a picture of colour and perfume. Their arrangements were absolutely beautiful, with an abundance of entries.

Lunch was purchased and delivered to the local businesses as well as served in the Town Hall, Delicious sandwiches, assorted slices and of course strawberries and cream, were included.

Raffle tickets were purchased at the door for a chance to win a Monster Food Hamper. All in all a great day.

- Glenis Wharton

Preparation: The caterers prepare the strawberries 9

Gannawarra cluster clergy host Refugee Support Group Simon Robinson

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ave you sat down at a table with an asylum seeker or refugee and persisted past your discomfort despite the communication gap? This is the key justice issue in our nation today. Take a stand against injustice.

The Gannawarra Refugee Support Group formed at the start of 2014 in response to the murder of Reza Berati on Manus Island. Earlier this year the group was the first to hear some refugees’ stories publicly – tough listening, but a real privilege.

Hosted by our Anglican ministry cluster, the group’s membership is drawn from a variety of churches and concerned community members claiming no faith. Together we are driven to educate the members of our shire about the parlous state of refugees in our nation’s care, and to provide practical support to the various refugees making Swan Hill their home [through the Swan Hill Uniting Community Issues Group].

Recently we screened the film Mary Meets Mohammad in Cranmer Church Cohuna. Along with our earlier screening in Kerang, this thought provoking film about a Tasmanian Anglican’s transformation of attitude through her encounter with asylum seekers has changed more than a few minds on the issue.

In Kerang, we hosted a meal bringing together our group, the Federal member for the Mallee, the Mayors of Gannawarra Shire and the City of Swan Hill, along with a couple of our councillors and around 40 refugees and asylum seekers. It was an opportunity for personal encounter, sharing thoughts and asking questions.

How do we understand other faiths?

Ian Howarth

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ome 200 people took part in a public Forum at Kyneton on 29 October to consider how we understand other faiths, especially Islam.

It arose from Combined Christian Churches meetings in Kyneton to face this question in the light of wider media and community unrest surrounding Muslim extremism.

Mr Almir Colan was invited to come and address us. He lectures in Economics, and was until recently on the Islamic Council of Victoria. He spoke clearly and succinctly about the fundamentals of Islam and gave those attending a broader view of the religion than what is portrayed by extremists and media hype.

belief in the messengers: 25 prophets are mentioned in the Koran, including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Lot, Joseph, Moses, Solomon, David and Jesus. The final messenger for Islam is Mohammed.

Certain myths were blown out of the water. This included a major fear that Muslims, as relatively recent arrivals, are going to take over Australia. Almir spoke of how there is evidence of a Muslim presence in Australia well before white settlement, through Indonesian fishermen along the

There is evidence of a Muslim presence in Australia well before white settlement, through Indonesian fishermen along the northern coast.

Of particular note was the close relationship between some texts from the Koran and the Bible. A remarkably similar story of creation, the importance of biblical prophets, and the virgin birth of Jesus are three areas that come to mind from his address.

Almir emphasised the creed of Islam in summary as belief in Allah (Arabic for God), as revealed by the prophets. In Islam there is belief in angels, Gabriel being of particular importance. There is belief in the books (the Koran, the Sunnah), while the Bible is also viewed highly as a sacred text. And there is

northern coast. He also noted that there are just 476,000 Muslims in Australia which represents still a small percentage of our population.

Almir fielded well many questions, and was receptive to our gathering. We ran out of time for more questions, so we are looking to plan further forums on religious and socio-political issues.

Our main aim was to have informed conversation and dialogue, which is ultimately the only way for a fair exchange of views. It is the pre-cursor and beginning of sharing faith.

Rohullah Hossaini and Swan Hill Mayor Michael Adamson shared about their cycling trip to Canberra to take a petition to Parliament regarding the plight of refugees and asylum seekers. The evening could not have gone ahead so smoothly without our good Muslim friend Najeebullah Danesh – thanks mate.

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St Paul’s Cathedral Art Prize 2014 attracts record entries Diana Smith

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he 21st St Paul’s Art Prize was opened on Friday night 31 October by long-time supporter and sponsor, Councillor Rod Fyffe. It attracted a record number of high standard entries - 168, of which 18 were sold.

Well-known Bendigo artist, Geoff Paynter, judged the entries and announced the winners, explaining his choices. The winning picture was an acrylic painting, ‘Lollipop garden’, by Shelley Dyett; second prize was a watercolour, ‘I can reach it’, by Jan Harvey. There were also a number of highly commended paintings and the ‘unpackers’ voted for their favourite picture.

The show was once again mounted in the Anderson Room and in the cathedral hall, the works enhancing our Sunday worship. Many parishioners assisted with the organisation, to make this a most successful show.

Winner: 2014 St Paul’s Art Prize winner Shelley Dyett with Dean John Roundhill

Swan Hill MU celebrates 60 years Jan Harper

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n Tuesday 25 November the weather was perfect for the end of spring - just the setting for a celebratory High Tea marking the 60th anniversary of the Swan Hill branch of Mothers’ Union.

Visitors from the Nyah branch and other local churches were welcomed, including guests from St Luke’s Anglicare. Joan Mellahn introduced the rector, the Revd Jan Harper, who offered thanks to God before the feast. The tables were set with lovely linen, fine china and silverware.

The catering ladies provided dainty sandwiches while members contributed cakes and pastries.

Maggie Williams provided the decorated birthday cake, which was cut by Shirley Wilkie and Thora Brown.

The longest serving member of the branch, Joan Blackman, read out entries from several old minute books, and spoke of faithful members from past years. There were many smiles as Joan recalled the fun and

Anniversary: Shirley Wilkie, Joan Mellahn, Jan Harper and Joan Blackman fellowship of the group’s meetings.

Visitors were very interested in the display of memorabilia, which included a souvenir tea towel from the 100th anniversary of the 1876 founding of MU in England.

Jocelyn Ingram offered a vote of thanks on behalf of all the visitors, who had enjoyed such warm hospitality.

With four million members worldwide, Mothers’ Union provides a network through which members serve Christ in their own community – through prayer, financial support and actively working at the grassroots level in programmes that meet local needs. Our vision is of a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships.

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Kevin is coming back to Bendigo

Revisiting the baptism service

Barry Rainsford

Baptism services are a great opportunity to show off the Church and our faith.

They are a great shop window.

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he Revd Kevin Pedersen, vicar of Christ Church Ormond, is returning to Bendigo as Bible Study leader for the 2015 CMS Autumn Weekend. He was assistant minister in South East Bendigo parish from 1991-96.

‘Joseph - a model of faithfulness’ will be the theme for his addresses for the weekend at Holy Trinity Flora Hill, 17-19 April 2015. Inpa and Vana Eliezer, serving in Cambodia for the past 17 years, will share their ministry experiences, as will Steve and Jenny Sonneman.

The Sonnemans have served in Pakistan for the past 13 years, teaching at Zaraphath Bible Seminary in Islamabad. In January 2014 Kevin taught there with Steve: he describes ZBS principal Ashkenaz as awesome!

A special Pakistani dinner is planned for the Saturday night.

A team from Ormond congregation will run a children’s programme during the Friday night and Saturday daytime sessions to encourage young families to attend.

The Eliezers and Sonnemons can also be heard at the CMS ‘Summer under the Son’ conference at Crossway Centre, East Burwood 12-15 January 2015: see www. summerundertheson.org.

Want to know more?

Contact Barry Rainsford Phone: 5448 3912 Email: bvrains@gmail.com.

Gordon Lingard

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fter a recent baptism, where the number of visitors outnumbered parishioners, a question stood out. Is the service in need of revision?

But what a big cultural gap there is between those who don’t belong and those who do. I often leave a baptism service wondering how we can bridge this gap without losing our identity. I seldom expect the large crowd who attend these services to return. What they got was what they expected, a wordy, and to most, a hard to understand ceremony. It’s clear that we Anglicans really like words.

Being schooled in Middle English, Chaucer and Shakespeare and having taught English, I easily identify with this love of words. However I wonder if a large proportion of those who seldom darken our doors, except for such occasions as baptism and

just to convince him and reassure ourselves.

It’s as if we’re saying, “remember what you said because we’ll hold you to it”. But really - they know we won’t. Hell and other consequences have long ceased to put fear into the people I talk to. So it’s well worth any risk of divine retribution. After, all God is love, right?

So I decided to look at rewording the baptism service, particularly the use of phrases like ‘renouncing Satan’ and ‘turning from sin’ and promising to be a ‘disciple’ for the rest of life.

I turned to England’s Patterns of Worship to be on the safe side, but it wasn’t much better. And then as I googled my way into uncharted waters I discovered a delightful article about the new Archbishop of

I discovered a delightful article about the new Archbishop of Canterbury, in the UK papers for wanting change in the baptism service.

Easter, might glaze over at the overuse of words, which are, for many, culturally strange.

We explain and then explain again.

We ask questions of sponsors? Then we ask them again … Do you believe?

Do you renounce? Do you affirm?

Let’s all affirm.

An uninformed onlooker might be forgiven for thinking that we’re being insecure in a religious kind of way.

They might also be forgiven for thinking that the God we describe as loving is coming across as more like a stern father scrutinising our every word. That we’re being repetitive

Canterbury. He was in the UK papers wanting change in the (Church of England) baptism service. Wow! What a co (sorry, God) incidence!

I’m always mindful of how we come across to those who have little experience of church, and yet from time to time find themselves in the midst of a church service. In services like baptisms we have a great opportunity to communicate, and it’s great that Archbishop Welby is leading the way.

Editor: Responses (250 words please) are invited to Gordon’s challenge. Email thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au.

Back: Kevin Peterson, Steve Sonneman and Ashkenaz together at ZBS.

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The Incarnation – God in our flesh Dorothy Lee Trinity College Theological School

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hristmas does not celebrate family life, the end of the year or giving gifts to one another. We celebrate that, in Jesus Christ God has become one of us, has shared our flesh and blood, has lived our common life.

God has taken on our flesh, become ‘in-carn-ate’. The incarnation lies at the very heart of Christian faith. It is what we celebrate at Christmas and throughout Epiphany.

In the scripture, the notion of the incarnation is most developed in John’s Gospel. In its prologue (John 1:1-18), generally read at Christmas, John makes the most overt statement of the incarnation: “And the Word became flesh and pitched his tent among us. And we beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

As John sees it, the incarnation has its true origins in creation itself.

There the divine Word, the Son of the Father, created the world and all that is in it. Through the Word, God created that world good, and yet darkness intervened, blocking out the light by which we were made (John 1:3-5). The coming of God into the world in human form rekindled that light and enabled us to recover our created destiny as beloved children of God (John 1:9-13).

So what does it mean for us to claim that Jesus is God on our flesh, God incarnate?

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irst it means that God in Christ has crossed the gulf between the divine and the human, between heaven and earth. That divide is not just the result of sin and death. It is also because God is entirely different from us.

We live in a world of transience and impermanence, where everything is always changing, never standing still - a world of ‘becoming’, to use John’s language, For God it is the very opposite: God represents ‘being’, that which simply is, the source of all life.

The incarnation means that God takes seriously our fleshly existence. Body and matter are not evil, but are created by God. To paraphrase Adam when he first saw Eve, in Christ God is now “bone of our bones and flesh of our flesh” (Genesis 2:23). God stands alongside us and understands us —understands us from within, knows what it is to be human, to suffer cold and hunger and loneliness, to be vulnerable and helpless, to be dependent on others. God has experienced our emptiness, our vulnerability, our mortality, so that we can come to experience God’s fullness, God’s strength, God’s immortality.

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econdly, the incarnation means that God takes seriously our fleshly existence. Body and matter are not evil in this view, but are created by God. More than that: God has taken on a body and, we believe, God in Christ still possesses that body, risen and transformed though it now is.

The resurrection confirms this, but it is already implicit in the incarnation.

Christian theology and spirituality are intrinsically of the body.

That is why the sacraments are so powerful for us in the life of the Church. They are the means by which God is revealed to us — in water, in bread and wine, in the ordinary stuff of our everyday life.

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hirdly, the incarnation is not just for us human beings, but for all created reality. John’s Gospel says that the Word became ‘flesh’, a term with wide implications.

God is concerned to save, not just humankind, but all of creation which, as Paul tells us, is currently groaning and awaiting our redemption (Romans 8:20-23). The incarnation points to the transformation of all matter, all created reality. “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son” (John 3:16).

A fuller version of this article is found in the November issue of The Melbourne Anglican.

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Hijab hysteria Angela Morrisey

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ecently there has been a call to ‘ban the burqa’ in Australia.

How should we respond?

Let’s get one thing straight. What you see is not the burqa but the niqab or hijab, which leave the eyes exposed.

The burqa covers everything – even the eyes. And you are more likely to see that in Afghanistan than Australia.

Covering the face has been happening since Bible times, when Rebekah covered her face before meeting Isaac (Genesis 24:65). In the Song of Songs the Lover praises the Beloved’s beauty which is concealed under a veil:

My darling, you are so beautiful!

Oh, you are beautiful!

Your eyes are like doves under your veil (Songs 4:1).

And this...

Your lips are like a red silk thread.

Your mouth is beautiful.

Your cheeks under your veil are like two slices of pomegranate (Songs 4:3).

In 1 Corinthians 11 Paul instructed Christian women to cover their heads, especially when praying. Until only a generation back it was customary for women to wear a hat in church, or when going out. My mother tells me when she was in town with her mother, her teacher criticized her for not wearing a hat and gloves! One greataunt wears a hat to church still, while in some churches women cover their heads at all times.

Older films show women not only covering their heads but having a veil over part of their faces as well - the late Queen Mother did so regularly. She, Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth covered their faces at the funeral of King George VI. Likewise, Jacqueline Kennedy covered her face with a veil at the funeral of her husband, John Kennedy. A Roman Catholic friend said that she kept a spare mantilla in the car for church – just in case.

I’m disturbed by Australian Muslim women having their veils ripped off their heads. Most Muslim women leave the face exposed to show their love for God, for Allah.

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There’s a word for it Gradual

radual may seem an odd word to consider when looking at words in a Christian context. However it is a word that many worshipping Anglicans hear on Sundays.

Richard Stamp

Someone recently went to Sunday worship where a baptism took place.

It was full of folk not used to being in church. Everyone got handed a sheaf of papers - pew sheet, lessons sheet, and one with all the hymns printed out. And there was the heading, ‘Gradual Hymn’.

What on earth could that mean to the non-churchgoer? Come to think of it, what does it mean to those who come week in week out?

By mediaeval times, cathedrals were built long and narrow and those at the back couldn’t see what was happening unless the altar was raised on a stepped platform. In side chapels, the altar tended to be on ground level.

The main altar thus became what was called the ‘high’ altar, because it was.

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he idea of progress by steps runs deep in Christian experience.

We sing the hymn, One more step along the road I go. Life is viewed as a pilgrimage, a step-by-step journey towards that which is sacred – recall John Bunyan’s famous book, The Pilgrim’s Progress. Those who love

Jesus took the one important step for our salvation when he went up to the cross and then was raised by God from the dead.

We know it as the hymn that precedes the Gospel reading – but why ‘gradual’? The word comes from the Latin for ‘step’, gradus. It gives us such words as grade, graduate, degree, gradient and the grader that smooths dirt. The gradual hymn was (and sometimes still is) the one sung while the Gospel reader carried the book to the top of the sanctuary steps so all could see and hear the reader.

Mind you, some biblical literalists don’t believe there should be any such steps at all – in Exodus 20:26 God says to Moses, “And do not go up to my altar on steps,” which seems pretty definite ... until you finish the sentence, “lest your nakedness be exposed on it”. In the days before folk wore underwear, and when outer garments were short, devout worshippers raising their eyes heavenward were likely to get an eyeful of the priest’s dangly bits. A distraction indeed!

Westerns will know that John Wayne addressed folk he met as pilgrim perhaps an allusion to the Pilgrim Fathers who fled to America in The Mayflower in 1620. In Plymouth the steps by which they embarked on their great step of faith are still known as The Mayflower Steps.

Whatever your personal pilgrimage in faith, Christians believe that Jesus took the one important step for our salvation when he went up to the cross and then was raised by God from the dead.

The really important step for a Christian is that step of faith that brings us to the same point as that expressed by Thomas, when he said of Jesus, “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28). All other steps may signify progress into a deeper personal sanctity. Whatever steps in faith we make, all our steps depend on that one great step of the Lord Jesus.

Let’s live and let live and respect each other. After all, Christians are instructed to love their neighbour (Mark 12:31).

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the

Blessed is …

mix

Coral Crook

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he book of Psalms is most likely the best known part of the Old Testament in the twentyfirst century.

An inspired collection of prayers and hymns, the psalms are people’s words spoken to God or about God. They express truth about God in song. They apply to all people in all ages – they speak to our heart.

The Psalter is ‘books’: Psalms 89; 90-106 and introduces Book whole collection.

divided into five 1-41; 42-72; 73107-150. Psalm 1 1 and maybe the

Blessed is… a great beginning.

Together in Song opens with a hymn based on Psalm 1 set to a traditional Thai melody. My favourite version is “Blessed is the man” written by Michael Baughen. It warns us not to walk in the counsel of the wicked. I was made aware of this song by using Covenant Songs whilst growing up.

I’m currently reading Prayer, Praise and Prophecy – A Theology of Psalms by Geoffrey Grogan. A very interesting read. He refers to the Psalter simply as “a library of poetic items used in Israel’s worship.”

Today composers are creating melodies for us as musicians did for worshippers in the past. Often when I’m reading a psalm a tune pops into my head, as so much great music has been written to sing these poems.

If you don’t have music pop in your head when you read a psalm, why not choose one and meditate on it?

media matters

Insuring your post-mortal future

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emember the central Victorian floods of 2011? Of course you do.

The suffering goes on for years. I remember them every time I see another TV advertisement about funeral insurance.

Peta Sherlock I reckon these ads have increased in number ever since those floods and the Black Saturday bushfires.

I remember how frustrated locals put signs up in their towns ‘Unlucky you’re with AAMI’ and other damning witticisms. But reluctant insurance companies eventually had to pay out some of what was due, so they needed another way of replenishing their coffers. At least, that is my suspicious theory.

Now they sell us a need: Good, healthy, intelligent people of my age buy funeral insurance. Oh, nice work, targeting the ones with the disposable income, the Baby Boomers. Run enough ads and I begin to believe everyone buys it. Though if I think for a moment longer, they only run the ads because everyone doesn’t yet buy it!

They play on my desire for control: Stay in control of your life, even after

want soft music at my funeral and meaningless words about “she’s only in the next room” and smoothing over the financial edges as well as the emotional ones. I would like a bit of suffering and sadness. They could even cry a little. They’ll get my money afterwards! But I mostly do not want the insurance companies to get up to $30,000 of my hard-earned money depending on how long I live. And trust me, those insurance companies have done the maths.

As it stands, I have neither bought funeral insurance nor pre-paid a funeral. I have told my family which local funeral director always does a good job from the clergy point of view. I also talk about my favourite hymns, but the list is now so long, my pre-planned funeral would probably just be a singalong. I once buried a person with a limited life span who so planned their funeral, even down to the ushers and the sentence of Scripture to be read after communion, that we were all bereft because there was nothing left for the mourners to do.

I do not want soft music at my funeral and meaningless words about “she’s only in the next room”. I would like a bit of suffering and sadness. you have died, by buying our funeral insurance! I say, If it is control you want, then buy a pre-paid funeral from a good local funeral director and leave some instructions about the service you want. It will cost a lot less and give you more control.

They sell by guilt: Do not leave your family having to scrape together the $6,000 for your funeral. I have told my children they can jolly well suffer or max out their credit cards. I do not

I do threaten to sit up in my coffin if anyone says I’m now in the next room or blowing in the wind or on the autumn breeze. I am dead, awaiting that oddest of Christian beliefs, the resurrection of the body. Not the soul, the body. I would like a good sermon about God loves us, no buts.

But even that is a lack of trust in God and my loved ones. And anyway, the funeral is really not for me, but for those who mourn.

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Where in the world...

is this church ?

what’s on in 2015

If you can name the church and the city it’s located in you could be our monthly winner!

Send your entries in to thespirit@ bendigoanglican.org.au or post to The Spirit at PO Box 2, Bendigo, VIC , 3552.

events calendar

Last month Sarah saw Chapel on Klimsenhorn on Mount Pilatus in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Ordination to the Priesthood Sunday, 1 February, Inglewood

There were no correct entires.

Blessing of the Oils Monday, 30 March, 11.00am, Inglewood

Bishop Andrew made Fellow of Trinity College

Safe Ministry Workshop Saturday, 21 March

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Synod Thursday, 28 - Friday 29 May

Clergy Conference, Mildura Monday, 13 - Wednesday, 15 April

Sarah Crutch

ishop Andrew has been elected as a Fellow of Trinity College. The highest honour the College can bestow, his election recognizes his significant contributions to the life of the College over many years.

Diocesan Convention Friday, 29 - Saturday, 30 May

Bishop Andrew began his ministry training at Trinity Theological College.

He has been an Executive Member of the Board of Trinity College Theological School since 1997, overseeing the development and strategic future of the Theological College. He also served as a member of the College Board from 2003 to 2012.

Clergy Retreat Monday, 5 - Thursday, 8 October Got an event coming up?

Send the details to thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au

Caring at a time of need

“I have had a long and strong commitment to the College, and particularly the Theological School,” Bishop Andrew said. “One doesn’t look for this sort of recognition but at the same time it’s an honour and privilege to receive it.”

151 McCrae Street Bendigo 12 Victoria Street Eaglehawk

P. 5441 5577

Bishop Andrew’s election as a Fellow will be celebrated at Evensong in Trinity College Chapel in March 2015.

www.williamfarmer.com.au

A tradition that continues...

THINKING OF STUDY IN 2015?

THEOLOGY FOR TODAY’S CHURCH TRINITY OFFERS CERTIFICATES,

Considering ordination, or just want to learn?

DIPLOMAS AND DEGREES FOR EVERYONE

Come and study the Bible, Christian tradition, spirituality and mysticism, worship and mission, and new ways of being church.

W: www.trinity.edu.au/theology T: +61 3 9348 7127 E: tcts@trinity.unimelb.edu.au

Excellence, Community, Diversity. Founded in 1877. An Anglican college of the University of Divinity.

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Trinity College Theological School, Melbourne New Staff, New Courses, New Vision