The
monthly Anglican Diocese of Bendigo
october 2016
issue 123
Guests: Bishop Andrew Curnow with Bishop Tennyson Boga of Papua New Guinea, Joy Freier and Archbishop Philip Freier
Diversity of faith celebrated throughout Convention Sarah Crutch
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ore than 200 people from parishes across the diocese converged on Bendigo to be a part of the Diocesan Convention, themed ‘Why I am a Christian’.
Over the course of the weekend several different stories of people’s journey with their faith and experiences with the church were shared, with all being vastly different, yet equally engaging and encouraging. The opening night at South East Bendigo featured guest speaker Joy Freier, who spoke of her journey to being a Christian. A special guest for the night was also Bishop Tennyson Boga, of the Diocese
Charlton sings-a-long page 3
of Dogura in Papua New Guinea, who is currently visiting several Anglican dioceses across Australia with ABM. He compared the role of a bishop in Australia with his in Papua New Guinea, where his diocese is extremely vast and expansive, yet he travels everywhere on foot – which has even involved three hour hikes up mountains to visit congregations. The Convention continued into Saturday beginning with a ‘one-on-one’ interview with Bishop Andrew Curnow who shared his story from baptism to being a leading Anglican bishop.
Coverage continued pages 4-5 Worship: Songs led by Eaglehawk
Brave shave for research Mooroopna conference page 6 page 9
Seasonal suggestions page 10
The Bishop
writes
She started the morning by getting the bishops to sit down and do some breathing, to be still and then produced a basket asking each bishop to voluntarily surrender their mobile phone!
Dear Friends,
I
have just returned from attending the Annual New Zealand Bishop’s Conference held in Hamilton on the north island. It is the custom for an Australian and New Zealand Bishop to reciprocate at each of their annual conferences. Hamilton is a city of 126,000 people and in the heart of dairy country in New Zealand – beautifully green and moist! The conference was held over three days and was attended by bishops from the three entities that make up the Province of New Zealand in the Anglican Church: • Tikanga Maori: representing the original inhabitants of New Zealand • Tikanga Pasifika: represent Polynesia including Fiji, Tonga and the Cook Islands • Tikanga Pakeha: representing the English settlement and colonisation of New Zealand Each Tikanga (church) has its own bishops and operates independently, but come together every three years in General Synod and at least once annually for a bishop’s meeting. At this year’s bishop’s meeting there was quite a lot of practical and common business conducted, but that was interspersed with three significant events: 1. A quiet morning led at an Anglican Retreat Centre by Canon Sue Pickering who is a accomplished retreat leader, spiritual director and writer:
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Some found it quite confronting, but Sue was of the view that bishops are increasingly driven by technology and instant accessibility and just don’t know how to stop (I can identify with that). As a discipline to be more attentive to the conference and participants I had decided to leave my phone in my room. Sue’s point to us was “we have heard of slow food, even slow church, but can we be slow bishops?”. All present found her word challenging by highly relevant. 2. A presentation by the Director of World Vision New Zealand Chris Clarke who spoke about the challenge non-government agencies (NGOs) are facing throughout the world: Their donor base is rapidly aging and young adults do not want to give money as much as get involved and work for a more just world and society. The main way this will happen is through social media and the internet.
accessible to many disabled people and that increasingly, disabled people feel forgotten by the churches. The group also distributed a recent publication by the New Zealand Disability Spirituality and Faith Network titled Creating Welcoming Communities: A disability resource for faith communities. It is practical, comprehensive and covers the physical and emotional needs of disabled people and a great guide for parishes and congregations. I intend to try and get some copies for the diocese and to also see if I can identify other resources in Australia. Many churches have installed ramps, but that is only a small beginning to making our churches more inclusive and welcoming. As you can read I benefited greatly from attending the conference. Blessings,
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Monthly newsmagazine of the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo
It is 35 years since the International Year of the Disabled and what has happened in our churches since that time? The working group reported that many churches are still not
Address: The Spirit, PO Box 2, Bendigo 3552 Member, Australian Religious Press Association Telephone: 03 5443 4711 General: thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au Chair and Editor: The Revd Andrew Eaton Publishing Editor: Sarah Crutch Consultant: The Revd Dr Charles Sherlock 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 21 October.
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He gave the example of India which can no longer be described as a poor country. In fact, India has the highest percentage of millionaires in the world, but also many of the poorest. What is needed is not money, but better governance and income distribution. So what will be the role of World Vision in the future and many other faith based agencies? 3. The third presentation by the Tikanga Pakeha Disability Working Group I found the most informative and challenging:
Music: Participants enjoy the music and hymns at Charlton’s sing-a-long
Hymn sing-a-long in Charlton Erin Tuineau
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n Sunday 28 August at 2pm, St Martin’s Anglican Church held its first ‘Hymn Sing-a-Long’ event. Over 70 people turned up to this event, including people from other churches and surrounding towns, and locals who just liked to sing. It was a Charlton parishioner, Glenda Watts, who first had the idea of having a hymn singing afternoon about a year or so ago, and in recent months decided to act on her idea and make it a reality. However, it turned out to be something much bigger and bolder than all of us had imagined. There was a real sense that God had been doing a lot of work behind the scenes to make this event what it came to be. We sang about 15 or more ‘old favourite’ hymns, with the MC Garry Allen giving us creative direction throughout the afternoon. A local couple, John and Rhee Shaw, also performed four beautiful songs for us to listen to and enjoy. Our thanks go to Gill Gretgrix from the Charlton Uniting Church, as we could not have run the event without her talents at the organ.
ANGLICARE VICTORIA’S OUT-OF-HOME CARE APPEAL
Please donate today and change a life Albury. Bendigo. Deniliquin. Echuca. Kyneton. Maryborough. Mildura. Swan Hill. Wangaratta. 1800 809 722 anglicarevic.org.au
Sing: Rhee and John Shaw After we had done all of our singing, we enjoyed some homemade cookies and a cuppa with each other. All in all it was a very uplifting afternoon for all who came.
Bencourt Care approves funding for projects within the Bendigo Diocese that provide for the relief of need, suffering, sickness, helplessness or poverty of people in the community. The types of projects funded are: a) a diverse range of community care services eg aged, palliative and respite care, outreach programs, chaplaincy etc; b) seeking out and serving children, young people and adults who are financially, emotionally or socially disadvantaged or marginalised; c) establishing and developing charitable work If your parish or group has a project that meets the above criteria please contact Jackie Mullan - Manager on 5443 4711 to discuss your proposal and obtain a Bencourt Application form. Applications need to be submitted by Friday, 28 October 2016 for review by the Bencourt Care Board on Monday, 7 November.
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Convention workshops engage discussion
Steve Weickhardt
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n the Saturday of the Diocesan Convention, attendees were given the opportunity to participate in two workshops from ten options. The spread of topics meant that most people were able to explore an area of their interest to a new level. Workshops during the morning session focused on: sharing your faith, local church engaging the neighbourhood, lay people leading worship, children in church and ministry with youth. The afternoon options were: understanding Islam, parish administration, Godly play, prayer, and ageing population and the local church. The organising team was encouraged by the quality of the presentations and the willingness of presenters to spend the time to prepare, travel and even cross ‘denominational lines’ to encourage us. Judging by the animated conversations after each session and feedback received, participants were inspired by the workshops. We hope that each will continue to put into practice the lessons learned on the day, and that the experience was positive enough to encourage even more to come along to another event like this. If you have any suggestions for workshop topics or presenters for future events, please let us know. Thank you to every person who was involved in putting the workshops together and making the day a wonderful experience.
Interactive: Joy Freier leads a workshop 4
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Story: Joy Freier shared photographs of moments throughout her life
Joy Freier encourages sharing of faith stories Andrew Eaton
“When we share our stories, God comes into focus” .
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his was the heart of an inspiring and energising presentation by Joy Freier, our guest speaker for opening night of the Diocesan Convention.
Responding to the topic ‘Why I am a Christian’, Mrs Freier took us on a journey through her life and faith history, from a wooden Methodist church in outback Queensland, through teacher training and work with indigenous communities, to marrying the now Archbishop of Melbourne, Philip Freier and living in Bishopscourt.
Share: At the Katherine Christian Convention way, friends and prayer partners all part of our Christian family.
Whether on Mornington Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, the Yarrabar community in Cairns or the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, Mrs Freier presented a faith life based on a foundation that God had a purpose for her, which was steeped in the selfless love of Christ. One of the lasting impressions of Mrs Freier’s journey was the grace of God she experienced through the people she met along the
Amidst the generous hospitality of Holy Trinity Flora Hill, Mrs Freier encouraged the 100 or more gathered to share our stories, and the story of Jesus. “Someone cared enough to tell me the story”, she said, and “the world is desperate to hear the story of Good News we have to share.”
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“In God’s grace, take time to step out, share our story, and God will come into focus.”
One on one: Bishop Andrew Curnow was interviewed by Greg Harris during the opening session of Saturday’s Convention
Bishop shares personal story of life in ministry
Sarah Crutch
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ishop Andrew gave parishioners a unique personal insight into his life as a Christian in the opening session of Saturday morning’s Diocesan Convention, sitting down in a casual yet candid interview led by Greg Harris.
Starting with his baptism at Flora Hill, Bishop Andrew explained that he ‘caught’ his Christianity from his mother, who was confirmed as an adult when he was eight years old.
“But in terms of a ‘moment’, it was when I was on a youth night in Maldon when I was about 14 - that’s when I decided to be a Christian”. Bishop Andrew spoke of his first conversation with Bishop Ron Richards where he expressed his interest in ordained ministry, to which the bishop bluntly replied, “Well I’ll be the judge of that!” It was then later, while working in the production line at the Bendigo Preserving Company that, much to his surprise considering their first abrupt encounter, he was approached by Bishop Richards for a word. He later went on to be deaconed at age 22, then priested the following year.
Uniquely being bishop of the place where he was born and grew up, Bishop Andrew shared his love for rural Victoria. “I love this part of the world…I love the people…I really feel that this is my land,” he said. Having now been in ministry for such a long time, being in his 23rd year as a bishop, Bishop Andrew said, “I’ve never doubted that this is what I want to do, or that this is what I’m meant to do.”
Deaconed: Bishop Andrew in 1973
A self-described ‘doer’, Bishop Andrew’s valuable contributions to the Australian Anglican Church nationally were acknowledged in sentiments shared by fellow bishops, who said, “he is like a bower bird - never embarrassed to pick up a new idea and give it a try.”
“Andrew Curnow has been a consistent and powerful voice for mission and renewal in the Australian Anglican Church. We owe him a great debt,” another added. On a more personal level, Bishop Andrew expressed his sadness that both his parents passed away only a few years after his ordination and hadn’t seen him go on in ministry. “My children didn’t know their grandparents. It is disappointing”. In contrast, a recent photograph of Bishop Andrew playing with his grandson Xavier brought a proud smile.
Joy: Bishop Andrew and grandson Xavier
“He calls me ‘Pa’ and he is an absolute joy.”
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Around the Diocese
Brave shave taken to support blood cancer research
Talitha Barclay decided she would like to have her hair cut to raise money to help people with blood cancer after seeing her friend do it the year before. She chose the APOSS community lunch for the venue and the timing was a day before her tenth birthday. The APOSS community were very encouraging of her and Talitha took on the challenge without any second thoughts or misgivings. Trying to raise extra money she offered a feel of her bald head for ten cents a go. When asking one person if they would like a feel for ten cents they responded by offering her $50! Talitha raised in excess of $500. Her own family were very proud of her as were her church family. Well done Talitha. - Dale Barclay
Shaved: Talitha Barclay with her hairdresser Amy
Mass gets messy in Maryborough
A special visitor awaited our energetic first ever Messy Mass in the parish of Maryborough-Avoca in September. ‘Bob’ the lamb joined us for some singing and dancing, and didn’t get too nervous during our Godly Play story of the parable of the Lost Sheep. After doing some wondering about the parable, we made our sheep masks, to remind us Jesus is the Good Shepherd, we are his sheep and he knows us all by name. The service culminated with nine little faces gathered around the altar following the eucharist. - Andrew Eaton Create: The children show off their creations
Spotlight on men’s health at St Paul’s
A delighted and very healthy looking Dean John welcomed a healthy turnout of men and women to hear Peter Strange (supported by Kaye Graves) from Bendigo Community Health, complimented by a wonderful brunch prepared by the Karen community. Men typically don’t make visits to the doctor a priority except when there is an obvious need. Peter emphasised that prevention was by far the healthier option than leaving things too late, leading to a more uncertain outcome. Bowel Cancer is an example where early detection has a very positive prognosis. Other health issues such as depression are often more difficult to speak about, however Peter explained that talking these things through at an early stage is encouraged in order to achieve a positive outcome.
Awareness: John Roundhill with Kaye Groves and Peter Strange
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- Gordon Lingard
www.bendigoanglican.org.au
Around the Parishes
One body, one faith, different traditions More than 150 people of all ages joined together for an ecumenical service held in Boort on Sunday 11 September.
The congregations of the six local faith groups gathered together in the town’s memorial hall to celebrate their common faith and join together in a eucharist. In this all traditions were recognised, but overwhelmingly the service demonstrated the faith that unites us. Many thanks must go to those behind this occasion for their thoughtful and careful planning, and for those who put in the time and effort to make this such a successful occasion. - Betty Barnes Together: Representatives of the different denominations
‘Our Place Minstrels’ share musical talents across Bendigo
‘Our Place Minstrels’, who are part of the Parish of Eaglehawk, perform to appreciative audiences in many arenas around Bendigo. Music is an important part of the Parish of Eaglehawk. It’s included at the 8.45am traditional worship service, and presented by the parish music group at the 10.30am more contemporary service. All members of the community are very welcome to come and enjoy it. Outside of the parish, the Sunday music group also provided the music at the Diocesan Convention day and more recently, a morning of singing, chatting and eating took place with the Minstrels in St Peter’s church. - Barry Rainsford
Getting ready: Some of the ‘Our Place Minstrels’ preparing
Sunraysia South celebrates admission to Holy Communion Three young special members were recently admitted to Holy Communion in the Anglican Church. Eden Barclay, Talitha Barclay and Neomai Burton took their first formal Holy Communion on Sunday 11 September. All three had met with the rector and their families to discuss the importance of remembering and thanking Jesus for what he has done for us on the cross while participating in this special meal that Jesus gave us. Neomai wore beautiful traditional Tongan dress as she also celebrated her birthday on this day. The APOSS community lunch turned into a great banquet as the celebration continued. Congratulations Eden, Talitha and Neomai on this special occasion. - Dale Barclay
Admitted: Neomai Burton, Talitha Barclay & Eden Barclay
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Ron Stone has joined Mount Alexander Funerals
Three Anglican Churches engaging with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Monica Short (Sydney: Bush Church Aid Society, 2015) pb, pp60, ISBN 978-1-86-467270-1 Review by Charles Sherlock
After many years of leadership, service and ministry in the Anglican Church of Australia, Ron decided on a change of career. Ron is well known in Bendigo and the surrounding region. He brings with him much experience in caring for people at critical periods in their lives, and has a particular interest in post bereavement follow-up and support. If you would like Ron to assist at your time of need, or you wish to have him visit after a bereavement, please call our office on 5447 0927.
195 High Street, Kangaroo Flat
Diocesan ABM Auxiliary Annual General Meeting Tuesday 8 November 2016 at St Paul’s Bendigo 11.00am: Guest Speaker Dean John Roundhill 12.15pm: Lunch ($10) 1.15pm: Meeting
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ulturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) congregations are often presumed to be a capital city reality. But many migrants come to regional areas for work, cheaper living or to join an existing community – and find their way into Anglican churches, not least in Bendigo diocese. Monica Short is a Lebanese Australian, Anglican Christian and social worker, married to the National Director of BCA, whose mission focus is regional Australia. She studied three CALD-including congregations as a research project under the auspices of Charles Sturt University. Her findings derive from planned interviews with 25 members drawn from St Paul’s Cathedral (Karen Anglicans), Christ’s House of the True Light Church (East Bendigo – Chinese Christians) and St Margaret’s Mildura (Burundi believers). So what do we learn? Mostly encouraging findings – CALD members of these churches were welcomed, supported in faith-deepening and practical ways, and some are emerging as leaders. Short acknowledges that it was not possible to select participants randomly, so there are limitations in her findings – which emphasise congregations being trained, linking with other CALD community networks, and keeping an evidence-based longterm vision and view.
THREE ANGLICAN CHURCHES ENGAGING WITH PEOPLE FROM CULTURALLY AND LINGUISTICALLY DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS
MONICA SHORT CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY
Read: Available from diocesan library So why skip the earlier pages? They suffer from the author’s apparent need to work, in a current university context – even one with a Theology department – with the assumption that religion is a private hobby, basically there to support believers in trouble. In stark contrast stands the world-view shaping, visionary impact of Christian faith which comes across in the interviews. The idea in modern life that ‘religion’ is a private matter is itself a religious position – and a very dangerous one. In failing to accept that everyone lives by faith, out of a vision of living grounded in a world-view – i.e. is deeply ‘religious’ – masks motives, and shuts out the wisdom of the ages, not least those incarnated in the Lord Jesus Christ.
My recommendation? I’d hope that any congregation in a CALD area (are there any that aren’t?) get a copy and take in pages 20-50. I am familiar with the ‘qualitative research’ methods used, and know a fair bit about the congregations studied. It isn’t perfect work – that House of the True Light is staffed and financially supported by Singapore diocese is missed, which affects the way citations are used, for example. But this is good work, and calls for serious attention.
Charles Sherlock, a priest of Bendigo diocese, is a theologian in active retirement.
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RSVP: 1 November Pam Fittock - 5441 1184 fittockpam@gmail.com Myrtle Shay - 5441 8354 myrtleshay@bigpond.com 8
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Anglican Parish Of Castlemaine On Agitation Hill Choral Evensong Sung By Christ Church Choir Sunday 2 October, 6.00pm Magnificat And Nunc Dimittis John Ireland In F Anthem: O Come Ye Servants - Tye
Engaged: The Revd Susan Allen shares her story
Conference shares Bible teachings Andrew Guyatt
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romises to shape our lives was the theme for the third Take Us to the River conference hosted by the Mooroopna Anglican Church on Saturday 10 September, featuring guest speakers Mark Simon and the Revd Susan Allen. Mark began the first session by reminding us who we are in God’s eyes; that we are created by Him and loved by Him, but that we are in a broken relationship with Him after the fall in the time of Adam and Eve.
Jesus had prepared her for her ministry today. As she reflected back on her earlier life, there were some difficult times which she now sees as God preparing her for the work she is currently doing.
Mark went on to point out that even as early as Genesis 12: 1-3, God assures us that he has a rescue plan. In the New Testament when Jesus arrives we learn that Jesus is the place where we meet God - Jesus is the meeting place between God and humanity. No longer is He on the mountain or in the temple or in the Ark of the Covenant - Jesus is the place where we meet God and everyone has access to Him.
Without this background she realises she would be much less effective in reaching and helping so many and explained that there is nothing like having similar experiences that enable you to walk alongside those who are struggling. Susan felt that God is blessing those around her because of her past experiences.
For his final session Mark outlined the human problem and our ruptured relationship with God. He shared with us how God has a solution to the human problem which will bring reconciliation, removal of guilt and shame, peace and social healing, release from bondage and decay, and release from consuming and possessing. Mark further elaborated that there will be a new creation when Jesus returns and in the mean time we will be His agents bringing blessings to others as we walk with Him. Susan Allen also delivered a very heartfelt story of her life and how
There were three things to take away and remember from our time of sharing during the conference; we are each of infinite value to God, we are to reflect the presence of God in our lives and God always keeps His promises. Another year and another great conference of clear and revealing Bible teaching, with thanks to the support of Bush Church Aid, the Leon Morris Foundation and the neighbouring church in Kyabram that sent a team to look after our primary aged children.
Sunday 6 November, 6.00pm Magnificat And Nunc Dimittis Howells Colliegum Regale Anthem: Justorum Animae – Stanford Sunday 3 December, 6.00pm Advent Carol Service Upcoming Concerts Saturday 15 October, 7.00pm 37% South (Contemporary Vocal Ensemble) From Australia To South America Saturday 5 November, 7.30pm Bendigo Chamber Choir Sounds Of Heaven (A Concert Of English Church Music)
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.
We also appreciate the many personal and heartfelt stories of God working in different ways so that His purposes are achieved. 9
Excitement builds as candidate prepares to join priesthood Melissa Clark
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t is hard to believe that it is nearly a year since I was ordained a deacon and now I am about to take the next step and put myself forward for priesting. The time has flown by as I have been exploring my new home town, parish and role. Our home in Woodend is at the foot of Mount Macedon and, often on clear afternoons, I see the memorial cross at the top of the mountain glowing in the sunlight as I drive back up to the house from the church, a meeting or a pastoral visit. I am reminded of the words of psalm 121 “I lift up my eyes to the hills: but where shall I find help? My help comes from the Lord: who has made heaven and earth” and, if it has been a particularly challenging, or particularly joyful visit, day or week, I am reminded that God is with me through every task that I undertake in this work. I still have to pinch myself sometimes that I am here, that God has called me to ordained ministry, and that I have the absolute privilege to walk with the extraordinary people of this parish and district. I am grateful every day and I am enjoying learning the things that I need to in order to be a good deacon and priest. I am also grateful that my family have settled in so easily and that they are happy in their new surroundings. Please pray for me as I prepare for my ordination on 22 October and please pray for the people of Woodend-Trentham as we journey together through this next Godgiven adventure. Ordination to the Priesthood When: Saturday 22 October Time: 10.30am Where: St Paul’s Cathedral Colour: Red 10
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Celebrating All Saints tide
he feast of All Souls day marks the end of a three day liturgical observance in the church’s year that enables the church to both give thanks for the faithful departed and saints of every age, and remind the world the good news of the resurrection to eternal life we are promised in Christ. Here are some suggestions for your church to observe All Hallows Eve (Halloween), All Saints and/or All Souls days.
All Hallows Eve An evening vigil will offer the community an alternative to the trick or treating of the secular world, and can use much of the Easter symbolism of Resurrection and light. See http:// liturgy.co.nz/church-year/allsaintsvigil for some ideas. All Saints Day Falls on Tuesday 1 November, so you may choose to move it to Sunday 30 October or Sunday 6 November and combine with All Souls Day. If observing All Saints/All Souls together, it provides an opportunity for those gathered to name the loved ones they have lost, light a candle, all in the context of broader teaching on the communion of saints.
Prayer for All Soul’s Day Father of all, we pray to you for those we love, but see no longer. Grant them your peace, let light perpetual shine upon them, and in your loving wisdom and almighty power, work in them the good purpose of your perfect will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
Book of Alternative Services (Anglican Church of Canada) p.429
All Souls Day Here is an opportunity for an ecumenical service at the local cemetery. Work with other local denominations (Our Roman Catholic and Uniting Church brothers and sisters are often open to such a service), praying for the faithful departed, and singing songs of resurrection and hope.
A Last Beatitude: And blessèd are the ones we overlook; The faithful servers on the coffee rota, The ones who hold no candle, bell or book But keep the books and tally up the quota, The gentle souls who come to ‘do the flowers’, The quiet ones who organise the fete, Church sitters who give up their weekday hours, Doorkeepers who may open heaven’s gate. God knows the depths that often go unspoken, Amongst the shy, the quiet, and the kind, Or the slow healing of a heart long broken Placing each flower so for a year’s mind. Invisible on earth, without a voice, In heaven their angels glory and rejoice. (© Malcolm Guite from Sounding The Seasons, Canterbury Press 2012 www.malcomguite.com)
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Poker machine proposal stirs public response Dale Barclay
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public forum was held at the Mildura Arts Centre about the dangers of poker machines and how they are designed to addict. The night was held as a response to a proposed project called ‘The Mildura’ which is seeking a casino licence. A group opposing the casino was formed. It is called the ‘Opponents of the Casino Con’ with the Revd Canon Dale Barclay as its facilitator. The group formed a partnership with the Alliance for Gambling Reform to organise the forum which included a free screening of the documentary Ka – Ching which looks into the design of the poker machine itself. Over 160 people were in attendance to hear well known social justice commentator the Revd Tim Costello speak, along with a former poker machine addict. One of the main messages is that rather than laying all the blame at problem gamblers, the problem is the very design of the machine itself, which is designed to draw people in and keep them there through a number of design features. The night was important in the public discussion and it was a great team effort from all those involved.
John Roundhill | St Paul’s Cathedral
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Faith in science
t is just too easy to see a divide between faith and science. The armies are amassed on either side of the debate. On the faith side are those who are happy with miracles as long as they are noted in the Bible and on the other side are hardnosed angular scientists who don’t believe anything unless empirically proven. Both armies are caricatures; not real.
insights of theology and philosophy.
This division, the supposed division between science and faith, is one that is believed by numerous people both within and without the circle of faith.
It is good to see this being espoused by popular scientists such as Professor Brian Cox, who said recently:
I have met many people who I presume rarely if ever go to church, who assume that I, being a Christian (and a paid one to boot) cannot believe in evolution, or climate change, or genetics, or an expanding universe, the list goes on and on. Equally I know of many of us in the life of the church who have certain distrust, almost fear about the scientific world, that somehow to have faith is akin to believing six impossible things before breakfast. My experience is that what bridges the supposed divide are both questions and humble awe. This universe/creation is a marvellous awesome place. It is a place so large that numbers can hardly do it justice or as the psalmist said:
When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?
Take a stand: Libby Mitchell (from Respin), Dale Barclay and Tim Costello
Well, meaning is something that scientists alone are not qualified to extract from the world. This is where art and music and philosophy and theology live, and not only have a role to play but are an essential part of our discussion – what do these discoveries that we make mean? How are we to respond to them as human beings?
Humans are remarkable beings; we are capable of tremendous evil or good and that range is remarkable in itself. To understand ourselves we need both the insights of the biological sciences and also the
Debate: Science and faith What is just as interesting as Brian Cox’s comments is that he was speaking on this subject at the Diocesan Clergy Conference of the Leeds Diocese in England at the beginning of September. What we need for this century ahead is neither hardnosed scientific atheism or bend the knee simplistic faith. We need to talk. 11
Caption this...
what’s on events calendar
Clergy Retreat Monday 3 - Thursday 6 October The Elvis Mass 3.00pm, 9 October at Barkly Contact: Andrew Eaton revandreweaton@icloud.com St Paul’s Cathedral Mission Dinner 6.30pm, Friday 14 October Ordination to the Priesthood The Revd Melissa Clark 10.30am, Saturday 22 October St Paul’s Cathedral, Bendigo
What do you think happened in this photo from the Diocesan Convention dinner? If you have a great caption, quote or description to go with this perfectly timed snap from Gordon Lingard, let us know! The winning caption will be published in next month’s issue and a prize will be forwarded to you.
Bible in the Bush weekend 28 - 30 October, Red Cliffs Got an event coming up? Send the details to thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au
Send us your captions to thespirit@bendigoanglican.org.au
Caring at a time of need
151 McCrae Street Bendigo 12 Victoria Street Eaglehawk
P. 5441 5577
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A tradition that continues... It’s amazing what you can discover under a few wrinkles Every older person has a story to tell. Benetas Unexpected Heroes is a unique photographic exhibition showcasing the unexpected, extraordinary real life stories of older Victorians.
Do you have an older hero in your life? Be a part of Benetas Unexpected Heroes by sharing a photo of your unexpected hero on social media, using #unexpectedheroes.
www.benetasheroes.com.au facebook.com/BenetasAgedCare
Rids van der Zee, 85 years, has travelled the world as a magician bringing joy to others.
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