The
monthly Anglican Diocese of Bendigo
june/july 2015
issue 111
Charge: Bishop Andrew delivers his 13th synod address to the Diocese of Bendigo at Holy Trinity, Flora Hill
Bendigo’s Synod faces challenges
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rofessional standards, episcopal standards legislation, protection of the environment, same-sex marriage and the timing of Synod were all matters widely discussed and debated during the second session of the 39th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo.
Inside:
Synod debates same-sex marriage page 3
Held over Thursday 28 to Friday 29 May, over 100 clerical and lay representatives from across the diocese came to represent their parishes and participate in discussion on a wide range of issues facing the diocese, church and wider world. Synod commenced with Bishop Andrew Curnow delivering his Synod Charge.
Stuart Winn inducted page 7
continued page 2
This issue of The Spirit provides full coverage of all aspects of the business and resolutions of the 2015 Synod.
Bishop at Coventry Cathedral page 7
An audience with the Pope page 11
Bishop’s charge addresses challenges
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ishop Andrew Curnow’s 13th Synod address to the Diocese of Bendigo engaged and informed members on a range of challenges and issues facing the diocese, Church and the wider world today.
Ordained Local Ministry
Following his recent visit to England to investigate Ordained Local Ministry (OLM), Bishop Andrew informed the Synod of his learnings from the way OLM ministry is conducted in the Church of England. “I introduced our own version of OLM ministry in 2006 in the diocese and it is time to review what we have done and try to benchmark it,” he said. Bishop Andrew reported that the Diocese of Guildford’s OLM program currently has 25 students across three years of training, with one and a half full time staff, and three part time staff. Furthermore, the parish contributes $2,000 towards the cost of the student’s course. In comparison, Bendigo employs a Ministry Development Officer only two days a week with a budget of just $5,000. He emphasised how an OLM program is vital in supporting the
Mission Action Plans
Bishop Andrew announced his desire to re-launch Mission Action Plans (MAPs) and encouraged all parishes to develop a new MAP for the next three years. He outlined that a MAP gives parishes direction and purpose, rather than being on a ‘roundabout’ and simply repeating events from the previous year. From his research into the Church of England, Bishop Andrew informed the Synod that some parishes in England have been doing MAPs since as far back as 1992, and those that continue to use them to give the parish focus and direction are doing much better than those without them. “MAP work is a strategic exercise. It’s about the long term future of the parish,” he said.
Professional Standards
In light of the Royal Commission on Institutional Child Abuse in Australia
Synod address: Bishop Andrew
The Diocese
Bishop Andrew spoke about the challenges of rural ministry, and highlighted particularly the parishes of Tongala, Lockington and Robinvale. Each of these rural locations has a declining population, with low worshipping numbers making it difficult to sustain ministry.
The challenge for us as a diocese is not to withdraw, but redefine how as a Church we are going to not only maintain a Christian presence in many small communities, but build it for the long term future long term sustainability of ministry in parishes, working alongside stipendiary clergy to build strong, viable and innovative teams of ordained and lay leadership. “OLM is a major strategy in many dioceses to provide ordained ministry for the long term future and I believe it will be and should be in this diocese as well,” he said. “But I believe the time has come for our own diocese to undergird our own Ministry Formation Program with more resources and see how we can strengthen it as part of our diocesan strategy for mission and ministry for many years to come.”
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and the Victorian State Enquiry into Child Abuse, a provincial professional standards working group, chaired by Bishop Andrew, has recommended the establishment of an incorporated body to run a professional standards company across the five Victorian dioceses.
“Sadly this means that some parishes in our own diocese will probably have to consider their long term future,” he said. “Let me also underline, I will not arbitrarily close parishes,” Bishop Andrew stated.
“All five dioceses will adopt a common professional standards model which will need to be adopted by each of the five Victorian diocesan Synods to become operative,” he said.
“The challenge for us as a diocese is not to withdraw, but redefine how as a Church we are going to not only maintain a Christian presence in many small communities but build it for the long term future.”
The new model will cover clergy, diocesan staff and employees, lay staff in ministry and parish volunteers, with the model anticipated to be in force in the latter half of 2016.
If you would like a copy of Bishop Andrew’s 2015 Synod Charge please email thespirit@bendigoanglican.org. au or call the Registry Office.
june/july 2015
www.bendigoanglican.org.au
Synod debates same-sex marriage
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ynod held a respectful and considered debate on same-sex marriage on Friday afternoon, following comments made by Bishop Andrew in his Synod Charge.
The Bishop said...
“It’s very hard to say that the Church is of a common mind on this issue – it isn’t.” He encouraged the Synod to understand that while same-sex marriage is opposed by most churches and Christian groups, Australia has changed dramatically from the Judeo-Christian tradition from which it evolved. “Australia, we need to understand, is no longer a Christian country,” he said. “We are a multi-faith, culturally diverse nation and Christians are now seen as a minority and one of many people that make up the dynamic of this nation”. “We need to accept that Christians do not have the monopoly on the
The Members of Synod said... “Redefining marriage would redefine family,” Vanessa Cheng (South East Bendigo) said in presenting the motion to allow for the discussion. “There is overwhelming evidence that demonstrates that children fare best when raised in a loving home by their married, biological parents.” “Just because two people love each other does not mean they have the right or even the reason to marry,” she added. “The Marriage Act does not preclude any two people from loving each other or being a couple.” In response to a question from the floor, Bishop Andrew confirmed that Anglican clergy can only use authorised Anglican orders of marriage service, which do not currently allow for same-sex marriage. Other members upheld a more traditional view of marriage, and that children should have the right to have a mother and father. “Primarily we have to base it on our biblical belief – that is paramount,” one member expressed. “It undermines the cornerstone of the family and the ideal of marriage
laws that govern the moral life of this country,” he said. “If the Marriage Act is changed all Christians can hope for is a ‘conscience clause’ in the new Act that does not make it mandatory for churches to be used for same-sex marriages or require clergy to officiate at same-sex marriage,” he added. “I don’t think it matters what the Church says, I think it will go through Federal Parliament,” he stated. “As a Church I think we need to accept that the Marriage Act will change to allow same-sex marriage and you will either in conscience reject it or accept the changes and even embrace them.”
being the best institution in which to nurture children. It creates a situation which denies the fundamental right of children to know and be brought up by their biological mother and father.” On the other hand, with a child of a same-sex couple recently baptised in a local church, it was urged that we need to consider carefully what the Church is putting to them. “Surely they can be given the same welcome. They will be a family whether we like it or not and surely there must be some way to make them a Christian family.” Others urged for understanding despite differing views on same-sex marriage. “That does not mean we don’t love someone who is in a relationship that we do not agree with,” one member pleaded.
It’s very hard to say that the Church is of a common mind on this issue – it isn’t - Bishop Andrew
“We have to be relevant and understanding of those around us. We need to be careful in the way we articulate what we say, but we need to understand how we relate to the community around us that we are trying to engage with and bring into the family of God”. Members expressed concern that the debate was being conducted without first consulting the views of parishes. “I want to have a discussion wider than this in the parishes we come from. I would encourage us to have the discussion but let’s prepare for it and let’s do it wider than the Synod.” Members were also worried that the issue would divide the diocese, and wanted to ensure the discussion and conversation was held with respect, understanding and love.
“Please be understanding that there will be some of us that disagree, but are trying to do it in love.”
“My passion for this diocese is such that I want to make sure that we actually can have a good conversation and not tear each other apart,” one member expressed.
Other members were concerned with the Church staying relevant to the community, especially considering Australia is no longer a Christian nation.
Bishop Andrew concluded the discussion by encouraging members to have the conversation about this sensitive issue in their parishes. 3
Registrar reports
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nne Baker presented her Registrar’s report on the 2014 year in the diocese to members on Friday morning, outlining a number of major achievements for the diocese. One of the most notable was the establishment of the new incorporated entity, the Bendigo Anglican Diocesan Corporation. The company was registered in September 2014 with the members of the Council of the Diocese being the Board of Directors.
The restoration of St Paul’s Cathedral continued, with close to $600,000 spent on repairs, restoration of the floor, walls and the audio visual fit out. “The main highlight will be the new hydraulic predella floor installed to facilitate a variety of church and community functions,” Anne said. The re-build of Eddington Cottage at Point Lonsdale was also completed, with the diocese now having a modern two storey townhouse featuring a large open living area and outdoor deck space. Professional standards is also a key area being reviewed, in light of the recommendations from the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry and Royal Commission. “The diocese remains committed to working on adopting ‘Safe Church’ practices which includes the implementation of policies and procedures in the areas of due diligence and duty of care, as well as providing just and fair response processes to grievances,” Anne explained. Anne thanked Bishop Andrew for his leadership of the diocese, as well as the parishioners for their cooperation, commending the good working relationships established between the diocese and the parishes.
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New acts: Diocesan Advocate John Henry presents the legislation to Synod
Synod passes new legislation
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new Episcopal Standards Act and an updated Trusts Corporation Act were the major pieces of legislation passed by Synod, along with updates to existing legislation and the handling of numerous General Synod canons. The most significant legislation to be considered was an Episcopal Standards Act that outlines the procedure should there be a professional standards complaint made against the bishop. The Act is based on a model ordinance passed at General Synod in 2014 which intends to give common procedure across all Australian dioceses. The model legislation requires each diocese to decide whether the hearings of the board during investigations be held publicly or privately. Advice from the Chancellor of the Diocese of Melbourne urged the Synod to opt for private hearings for a number of reasons, primarily being that open hearings may deter complainants from coming forward for fear of embarrassment or public scrutiny. Additionally, there is a good precedent for private hearings set in other similar legislation and with the desire for consistency across all Victorian dioceses (with Ballarat, Wangaratta and Melbourne currently having closed hearings), the Synod voted in favour of hearings being private. A 2015 Trusts Corporation Act, which updated the previous 1998 Act in several areas, was also passed. Among the revisions, the age limit of 72 years for trustees is removed, with their position as members continuing until either death, resignation or removal from office by resolution of the Synod. The new Act also
june/july 2015
clarifies that although property is legally held in the name of the Trusts Corporation, the responsibility for local management of the property lies with the churchwardens. Other minor legislative matters were also dealt with, including small amendments to the current Bishopric and Assistant Bishop’s Acts to bring the procedure for confirming the canonical fitness of the candidate in line with a provincial ordinance of 1979. Furthermore, the St Luke’s Anglicare Incorporation Act 1999 was repealed with the welfare agency having transferred to be a division of Anglicare Victoria, and with the View Hill Fellowship concluding in July, the View Hill Fellowship Act was also rescinded. All General Synod canons presented were endorsed with the exception of the Protection of the Environment Canon 2007. Although supporting the need for the diocese to be environmentally responsible, it was felt that the reporting requirements required by the canon would be an added workload on parishes and the Registry. Instead, Synod passed a resolution requesting the Council of the Diocese to consider ways the diocese can ensure it upholds its responsibility to care for the environment. Bishop Andrew extended his sincere thanks to John Henry for his extensive work in preparing all the various pieces of legislation for Synod.
www.bendigoanglican.org.au
This Synod resolves to....
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riday afternoon saw a range of resolutions on a variety of diocesan and national matters passed by the Synod.
Date of Synod
Moved by Simon Robinson, the motion called for a preference for Synod to be held on a Saturday night and Sunday to allow those parishioners in weekday employment the opportunity to attend without having to take a day off work. There was great discussion on the issue, with members noting that there is a range of personal circumstances impacting on the ability of members to attend, both on weekdays and on weekends. A key issue raised was that clergy would not be in their parishes on a Sunday. After considerable discussion on both sides of the issue, a vote was taken and the motion was passed by only five votes. Bishop Andrew said that the points raised would be referred to the Senior Leadership Team for consideration in planning future Synods.
Ordained local ministry
Heather Marten (Ministry Development Officer) spoke to a motion asking the Synod to affirm the diocese’s commitment to three expressions of ordained clergy; stipendiary clergy, ordained local ministry (OLM) and ordained pioneer ministry (OPM). Furthermore, the motion asked for an investigation into ways the Ministry Formation Program could be strengthened and resourced, including areas of budget, staffing and curriculum. Since it has been ten years since the first OLM candidates were ordained, Heather recommended that it is timely to affirm the diocese’s commitment to OLM Ministry and review the current program.
View Hill Fellowship
With the View Hill Fellowship deciding to close, and a final service set for 5 July 2015, Synod acknowledged the minstry of the Fellowship as part of the diocese, with Bishop Andrew giving thanks to God for its ministry over the past 25 years, and prayers as they prepare for the service of deconsecration.
Cuts to overseas aid
Ian Howarth (Kyneton) moved that the diocese express deep concern over the significant cuts in the Federal Budget for foreign aid and called on the government to reconsider its position and reinstate foreign aid targets. Ian outlined that Australia, although economically well off, would fall to 14th in the list of countries contributing foreign aid, going from being one of the most generous countries to one of the least generous. He stressed that Australia should be assisting in fostering a safe and prosperous region for all. Seconded by Ruth Murphy, the motion was passed.
Asylum seekers
Ruth Murphy (Kyneton) presented a motion calling for the Australian Government to cooperate with neighbouring countries in responding with compassion to the plight of starving homeless people adrift in sea vessels with nowhere to go. Ruth pleaded that so much of our Christian teaching emphasises compassion and loving all people – no buts. “How can we ignore the plight of these people in the sea?” Ruth questioned. “We cannot turn our backs on these people. It’s the world’s problem and we have to share it.”
Condolences
Thanksgiving to God for the life and witness of Margaret Willsmore, Daniel Teed, Roger Hurford, Gwen Bruce and Joyce Elliot, who have passed away during the previous year, was given at the conclusion of Synod by Bishop Ron Stone, marked with a moment’s silence.
Provincial Professional Standards Model
The Registrar moved that Synod receives the report of the provincial professional standards working group regarding a provincial professional standards model and, in principle, supports the establishment of the proposed incorporated body to handle complaints across Victoria. Furthermore, the motion requested the bishop to call a special meeting of Synod later in 2015 to pass the necessary legislation if required. 5
Around the Diocese 25 years service to Vision Australia
Bishop Jeremy Ashton does a lot of work behind the scenes in the Diocese of Bendigo. A major ‘behind the scenes’ work is that of arranging service relief – usually for retired clergy to cover times when our parish based clergy are away on annual or sick leave. This is a big and important ministry. Just recently Bishop Jeremy’s work in an entirely different area was recognised. He was awarded a 25 years of service badge for his service to Vision Australia – the organisation that cares in many and varied ways for visually impaired people. Bishop Jeremy actually commenced his service to visually impaired people with the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind. His first contribution was putting text books on reel to reel tape for visually impaired tertiary students. When this work came to an end Bishop Jeremy joined the Bendigo Advertiser Talking Newspaper team, which involved reading the newspaper onto a cassette for distribution to the visually impaired. When this work was superseded by new technology he began proof reading for braille books as a transcription, and also reading the newspapers live to air for Vision Australia Radio Bendigo, which is found on the FM band at 88.7 Congratulations, Bishop Jeremy.
25 years service: Bishop Jeremy - Bishop Ron
Cursillo refreshment weekend
Kite flying, singing, fellowship, laughter, uplifting talks and bright crisp days were all part of the recent Cursillo Refreshment Weekend held at the Koolamurt Scout Camp in Bendigo. The theme of the weekend was ‘On Eagles’ Wings’ and we all got very crafty making the ultimate eagle kite – all in Cursillo colours of course! The camp was well attended, and we even had some Cursillistas from the Wangaratta Diocese come and join us. The food was plentiful, the beds very comfy and everyone left with ‘when’s the next one?’ Much fun was had on our skit night with ‘caring’ being the theme, which made for some hilarious interpretations!
Refresh: Cursillistas enjoying the Refreshment Weekend
We give special thanks to our servant community for organising the weekend. - Susan Turner
Historic pipe organ rebuilt and relocated It was a ‘full house’ at the Church of The Resurrection, Macedon on Sunday, 31 May when Bishop Andrew Curnow, together with parish priest, Greg Davies, dedicated the new ‘old’ pipe organ. A eucharist and dedication service was celebrated with the organ dedicated in memoriam to David Gome, late husband of Dianne Gome, Director of Music, Parish of Gisborne. David was inspirational in taking on board this project but died suddenly as the project commenced. This historic pipe organ was one of the first on the Bendigo Goldfields when it was installed in what is now known as All Saints Old Cathedral. After a project lasting almost 12 months Australian Pipe Organs completely refurbished the organ, including new parts from Germany, and built a splendid new casework to hold the 945 pipes. The Resurrection is home to many musical events: from chamber orchestras, large chorales, young voices, to jazz. The new organ will feature regularly at upcoming concerts as well as being a part of the church’s regular services. - Greg Davies 6
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Dedicated: The pipe organ
www.bendigoanglican.org.au
Around the Parishes
Stuart Winn inducted as rector of Rochester and Lockington A large number of parishioners, friends, family and clergy gathered on the evening of Thursday 14 May to affirm Stuart Winn’s two years of ministry in the parishes of Rochester and Lockington and to induct him as rector. Bishop Andrew presided over the induction liturgy and Archdeacon Greg Harris preached an engaging sermon on the theme: ‘Jesus – the stone that the builders rejected’. Following the induction, Stuart was affirmed and congratulated by churchwarden Bill Roberts and Rural Dean Sharon Valentino. “It was a great encouragement to have colleagues, family and friends come and support us as my leadership of the two parishes was formalised in this way,” Stuart said. “We are looking forward, God willing, to being part of the Rochy and Locky communities for quite some time to come, and are excited about the new possibilities for gospel ministry in the region as we continue to work together as a cluster with the parish of Echuca.” - Bryn Jones
Inducted: Stuart with Bishop Andrew
Bishop preaches at Coventry for Anzac Day
Late last year I was asked by the Primate if I would be willing to preach at a service for Anzac Day to be held in Coventry Cathedral in England. Coventry Cathedral is dedicated to world peace, as the original cathedral was bombed in World War Two and a new Cathedral of St Michael and All Angels was built in the 1950’s and 60’s. Interestingly, the bishop who represented the Church of England in Australia at celebrations to mark its opening was the Bishop of Bendigo, the Right Revd R.E Richards on 8 May 1962. To mark the opening of the new cathedral, Bishop Richards presented a verger’s wand made in Australia and this wand was used to lead the current bishop into Coventry Cathedral at the Anzac Day service.
Coventry: Bishop Andrew, pictured with the head verger and the verger’s wand
The highlight of the service was the playing of the Last Post, followed by the Reveille and prayers for world peace. The service concluded as we processed down the cathedral to a rousing rendition of ‘Waltzing Matilda’ by the Fusiliers Band. - Bishop Andrew
100th birthday celebrations in Talbot
Alf Severino, Evansford native and Talbot parishioner in the Parish of Maryborough-Avoca, turned 100 in May. His centenary celebrations were full of spirit as they came after the Pentecost service presided over by Fr Donald Bellamy and Reverend Canon Sandra Field. Alf faithfully journeys from his new abode at the Dunolly Nursing Home once a month for the service at St Michael and All Angels Talbot. Up until late last year, Alf was still visiting the Maryborough Nursing Home worship services to spend time with and support ‘the oldies’. Well done, good and faithful servant! - Andrew Eaton
100: Alf celebrates his 100th birthday
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Cycling by Faith
Jesus, lover of my cycling soul
Eddie Barkla
N
ow may the God of peace sanctify you completely. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
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Social inclusion is about breaking down barriers and giving people the opportunity to lead fulfilled lives.
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– Bishop Andrew Curnow AM
Donate to St Luke’s a division of Anglicare Victoria
Donate online www.stlukes.org.au Albury • Bendigo • Castlemaine Deniliquin • Echuca • Kyneton Maryborough • Swan Hill
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“Having a health issue? Get onto Dr Bike and it will soon be lessened!” This is a phrase I heard only last week. We regularly hear the medical profession as advocates for cycling being good for a healthy body, mind and soul. There is a shift in thinking required to make a commitment to start any exercise routine. There will generally be an encourager who has ridden the path before you, and knows the benefits and outcomes of cycling for your health. New riders, once bitten by the ‘cycling bug’, will often become addicted and take every chance they can to get out on the bike and enjoy the freedom that comes when the mind, body and soul are working healthily together.
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: Sarah Crutch Consulting Editor: The Revd Dr Charles Sherlock 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 17 July.
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There are many testimonies in the wider cycling community of those who have gained health benefits from their experience on the bike. We hear amazing weight loss stories and recovery from illness, particularly depression and mental health issues.
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As Christians, we are given much more than those who try to achieve these regimes in their own strength. Others
usually find it is not sustainable, and will lose their inner peace when there are interruptions or distractions that break up their routines. When we come to Christ Jesus, and accept his saving grace and rescue from sin, we are given all we need to be preserved until the Lord returns. The world around us asks us to ‘sell our souls’ to achieve the goal of living healthily. But over time, as the gains are actively pursued, this robs inner peace and the aching hole in the heart remains. As Christians we give our souls – our whole selves – to believe and follow the Lord Jesus, the sustainer and “lover of my soul” (as the old hymn puts it). Christ is faithful, and will preserve us in faith until he comes again. The healthier we become spiritually, and the more peace of God we are given, the more Christ Jesus can work through us. It is not our striving, but acceptance and surrender to this wonderful “lover of my soul”. Looking forward to seeing you on the road soon, God willing.
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Kyneton Baptist Church
Saturday 15 August 9.30am - 4.00pm $25 per person Bookings close 13 August at 5.00 pm Register online: www.buv.com.au/scaw
Eucharist: Koori Ministry representative, Robyn Davis, at the Synod eucharist
Reconciliation week at Synod
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ith Reconciliation Week being held from 27 May to 3 June, the indigenous community was not forgotten as Synod proceeded with its business.
Robyn outlined to the Synod that green represents land, the blue represents the water of the Torres Strait, and the white shape represents a dhari (or headdress) which symbolises the people. Robyn moved a resolution that requested the Senior Leadership Team to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan. This would provide ways the diocese can contribute to reconciliation and outline actions that can be taken to build stronger relationships with the indigenous population of the diocese. Trevor Bell (Mooroopna) spoke to a motion expressing concern over the lack of consultation for those affected by the proposed closure of Aboriginal communities in Western Australia.
Anglican Diocese of Bendigo Parish of the Northern Mallee
Children’s & Families Minister Full Time - Lay or Ordained
A selection of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags were available for members to take and display in their churches or homes. However, the flag of the Torres Strait Islands intrigued members, who were unfamiliar with the green and blue flag.
Contact: Heather Marten
5443 4711 or mdo@bendigoanglican.org.au
Flag: Robyn explains the flag of the Torres Strait Islands “Without consulting with the communities or treating them with respect, there will be nothing but pain,” Trevor said. Robyn Davis referred to the Declaration of Human Rights for indigenous peoples, agreed to by Australia in 2009, which affirms the right of indigenous people to participate in decisions that affect their lives. “Article 10 of the declaration states that indigenous people shall not be forcibly removed from their land,” she added. “Australia has endorsed this declaration and we’ve accepted it as a framework for relationships in this country so it should shape what is happening in Western Australia.”
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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.
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Sermon seeks harmony
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he reconciliation liturgy used for Friday morning’s Synod eucharist celebrated the beauty of our natural world, and fostered a spirit of unity and togetherness. The service featured a reading from Genesis 1: 26-31 which says, “God saw everything that he had made, and indeed it was very good.”
Bishop Andrew encouraged members of Synod to share places across the diocese that they felt reflected the magnificence of God’s creation, with members naming the Murray River, Nyah State Forest, Mount Terrick Terrick, Mount Tarrengower and the view over Chinamen’s Bend as good examples of the beauty of this world. He then went on to share the travels of Major Thomas Mitchell in 1836, who, in search of the sea, ventured from Mt Hope in the north of Victoria, to Pyramid Hill, the Grampians and eventually finished up in Portland. Writing about his discoveries across the state, Mitchell declared all he saw in his discoveries as “the handiwork of divine providence.” “All that he saw was made by God, and indeed it was very good,” said Bishop Andrew. “The Murray River, the Nyah State Forest and Mount Terrick Terrick are reminders to us in our own day and age that we need to look first and foremost at the beauty and delicate balance of God’s creation, and care for it,” he said. Bishop Andrew continued, highlighting the line from the Gospel reading, “I ask not only on behalf of these, but on behalf of those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one” (John 17:20)
Beating around the bush What’s the weather?
Bishop Ron Stone
I
wonder if you are interested in the weather. Do you hear yourself saying, as you start your day, “I wonder what the weather will be like today?”
Perhaps you might have a weather station at your place where you track the weather. Maybe you subscribe to the weather channel, or use a weather page on the internet.
Some reading this column will be waiting for the rain to come on cereal crops that have been sown – some will be still waiting for that rain before taking the risk of sowing. Many people in this diocese are anxiously looking for the rains to come. Many people in the outback too are looking to the skies and desperately looking for rains to break the grip of drought. One of my favourite biblical references to the weather is found in the first book of Kings 18:44. It is a time of a prolonged drought, and in the third year of drought, God sends Elijah to the king with a prophecy that the drought is soon to break. The skies don’t seem to support the prophecy so Elijah sends his servant up a mountain top seven times to see if the rain might be coming. On the seventh occasion, the servant reports back with these wonderfully descriptive words of weather observation: “Look, a little cloud no bigger than a person’s hand is rising out of the sea.” This was the sign to usher in the drought breaking rain. There are many people on the land who would welcome such a sign. If you watch ‘Landline’ on the ABC you will have seen a programme filmed in Longreach focussing on the effects of drought in Western Queensland. This
area formed part of the diocese where I was the bishop, and the people, the area, and the needs, weigh upon me. ‘Landline’ spoke of outback businesses collapsing, people being put off work, people leaving towns looking for work, schools losing numbers and people having no income to spend on essentials.
Our parish of Pyramid Hill-Boort prepared a photograph album of members of our three congregations and we each wrote a message of encouragement, a prayer, or a text, and it has been circulating around three outback congregations. It was a small thing to do, but it has meant alot to the outback people. It was an encouragement and meant something to those doing it tough to know that they were not forgotten, and they were able to see the faces of those praying for them. Then what about the churches in the outback? When there is no money for buying anything other than the bare essentials – not even to pay for a visit to the doctor as is the case for some – what about money for the church to provide ministry when the need for ministry to people is at its greatest? Please remember, and help if you can, the Anglican Outback Fund and the Bush Church Aid Society who are concerned with ministry with outback people. Please pray for the people on the land. Consider visiting their towns when on holidays and help with tourist dollars. Pray that they will not give up hope. May God encourage them to trust God’s timing and to keep looking and hoping for that “little cloud no bigger than a person’s hand.”
“The vision here is to see humanity restored with God, a unity of relationship. To see nation at one with nation, race with race, to see that all creation is in harmony with the human race and God,” he preached. “This means black and white Australians working as one, caring for and restoring our land as one, and as one nation and people glorifying and praising God for his goodness to us!” 10
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Book review:
The Thirteenth Disciple, Philip Platts A Novel (Matador, 2015), ISBN 978-1-78462-115-5
Charles Sherlock
A
novel telling the story of Jesus? For teenagers? Won’t they know the story – and its ending – already? Philip Platts doesn’t think so, hence this novel, which this theologically literate senior citizen found hard to put down! The ‘thirteenth disciple’ is a 14-year old boy, Daniel, who tags along with Jesus and the twelve. Sounds corny, but it ‘works’. There are some nice touches about how the lad fits into the gospel accounts – but that is not the point.
Platts has done his homework on the gospels, alongside his story-telling skills. There are a few oddities – Jesus and the disciples sitting on chairs at the last supper, rather than reclining – but none are worth worrying about. There is inevitable mixing of the various gospel accounts, but again, nothing of undue concern for scholars. This is a wellresearched and theologically nuanced book, as well as being highly readable. The Thirteenth Disciple is arranged in three ‘books’, corresponding to the three main areas and times of Jesus’ ministry – Galilee and further north, the journey south, and Jerusalem. Events within these are told out of order, however, with conversations used to fill them in. Sounds complex – but it works, and vividly conveys the different contexts for Jesus’ ministry. What comes across strongly is a highly believable picture of the disciples, and a most attractive picture of the true humanity of Jesus. That he is more than this - especially in his healing ministry - is conveyed subtly and indirectly, a strategy aimed at communicating Christ’s message to those for whom it is unknown. Which is, after all, the way the gospels work! The Thirteenth Disciple is highly readable, and free of ‘Christian jargon’. A small group that read it aloud would be drawn back into the gospels with new eyes and ears. I have no hesitation in commending this book, whether for youngsters blissfully ignorant of the story of Jesus, or mature Christians seeking to follow him daily.
An audience with the Pope
O
n Sunday 3 May, the Revd Dr Charles Sherlock took part in an audience at the Vatican with Pope Francis. He was with a group of a dozen Roman Catholics and similar number of Anglicans, members of the Anglican-Roman Catholic International Commission III. “This is the second time I have met the Pope,” Charles told The Spirit. “The first was in 1998, when we met John-Paul II at Castle Gondolfo, his summer residence. On both occasions I reflected on what it means to meet the man who most Christians accept as ‘Mr Christian’ in some way. “One member, a lay Roman Catholic moral theologian from Chicago, knew the archaeological remains under St Peter’s well, which we visited before our audience (fascinating!). She decided to meet some friends – but then found it quite a task to convince the Swiss Guards to let her in to the papal offices! “Just as the door was opened for Pope Francis to leave, she came running down the corridor and nearly fell into his arms! ‘You are excommunicated’, she heard him say – with a big smile – but a little later, ‘Now you are reunited,’ to her great relief! It was very funny, and also showed us the humanity of this South American man.”
What did the meeting mean for Charles personally?
“As well as being a privilege and an interesting experience, it was a further encouragement towards reconciliation in this land,” he replied. “After the ‘original sin’ of immigrant Australians against the indigenous inhabitants, our neighbours, CatholicProtestant sectarian rivalry is a major stain on our nation’s history. ”Significant differences remain between Anglicans and Roman Catholics, but they are far, far less than a few decades ago. The most outstanding change for RCs has been the new delight in the scriptures, and their strong sense of God’s grace.” Charles joined ARCIC in 1991, and is now its longest-serving member. Apart from a gap from 2005-2010, he has set off each year in the northern summer for its meeting, which runs for at least a week. Over the years he has helped with three Agreed Statements: • Life in Christ: Morals, Communion
Meeting: Charles with Pope Francis and the Church (1994 – now a bit dated due to changes over same-sex relationships); • The Gift of Authority (1999, which included agreement on the authority of the Scriptures, their relationship to Tradition(s), and the ministry of the Bishop of Rome), and • Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ (2005, whose “live from God’s future backwards” continues to shape Charles’ approach to life and preaching). All statements are available on the internet at https://iarccum.org/ agreed-statements. ARCIC III began in 2011, and is charged by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Pope with exploring “Church as communion at local and universal levels, and how the local and universal Church discern right ethical teaching”. (NB: ‘universal’ here does not mean ‘catholic’, but ‘global’.) The choice of this topic reflects the Anglican practice of making contradictory decisions at local levels, while for Roman Catholics there is overly central control. Along with this work – now in its fifth year – the Commission has been asked to draw together the five Statements of ARCIC II into a ‘corpus’. This has been a major task of Charles over the past two years: the book is planned to be out around Easter next year. Charles spoke about the work of ARCIC at St Paul’s Kyneton on Sunday evening, 3 June. He is happy to speak with any group, particularly any interested in studying the Agreed Statements of ARCIC.
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Where in the world...
is this church ?
Where did Bishop Andrew visit? If you can name the church and where it is located, you could be our monthly winner! Send your entries in to the thespirit@ bendigoanglican.org.au or post to The Spirit at PO Box 2, Bendigo, VIC , 3552.
what’s on events calendar
Last month featured All Saints Emu in the Parish of St Arnaud. The winner was Des Benfield. Congratulations!
St Paul’s Cathedral Winter Feast Saturday, 20 June, 12.30 pm Leitchville celebrates 75th Anniversary Sunday, 28 June, 11.00 am Final service at View Hill Fellowship Sunday, 5 July, 10.00 am Study Days with Bishop Stephen Cottrell 20 July (Ballarat) & 21 July (Melbourne) Safe Church Awareness Workshop Saturday, 25 July, Red Cliffs Council of the Diocese Tuesday, 11 August Safe Church Awareness Workshop Saturday 15 August, Kyneton Baptist Church Got an event coming up? Send the details to thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au
Caring at a time of need National Director: Rodger O’Hara, with outgoing National Director Diana Smith
Commissioning of National Director
B
endigo Cursillo leader Rodger O’Hara was commissioned as National Lay Director for the Cursillo Movement at the recent National Conference at Dubbo. Congratulations Rodger!
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A tradition that continues...
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