Crosslight April 2016

Crosslight Publication of the year

No. 264 April 2016

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Crosslight takes to the road and meets church communities throughout rural Victoria.

A Muslim, a Christian and a Buddhist get together to talk peace and social justice.

Meet the volunteers who keep their churches running smoothly.

Crucified Land Crucified Water - “This image captures the idea that we have and are crucifying the land that sustains us. Knowing what has been done in the name of Christ, from misguided care of Indigenous people to the exploiting of water while claiming our right of stewardship … there is so much I cringe about. Yet, the story is redemption. New life after passion and crucifixion, a way of peace with the universe that brings great hope and redemption.” – Artist Rachel Peters, member Warrnambool UCA

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Moderator Dan Wootton reflects on the Royal Commission.

Rev Dr Stephen Robinson revisits the Easter story and finds lesson for today.

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Synod Snaps brings you images from throughout the Church and beyond.

Regulars Reviews - 16 Letters - 19 Placements - 21 Moderator’s Column - 23

Editorial Lessons from Holy Saturday PENNY MULVEY

AS you read this, you will have travelled the journey of Lent, felt the grief of Jesus’ death on the cross, and joined with others to celebrate that Christ has risen, the cornerstone of Christian hope.

What about Saturday – that day in

Communications & Media Services

UCA Synod Office, 130 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Phone: (03) 9251 5200 Email: crosslight@victas.uca.org.au ISSN 1037 826X

between? The day when the disciples had to accept that their Messiah had fooled them. What might they have felt? Despair?

Anger? Guilt? Emptiness? Trauma after witnessing their Lord’s violent death? And for what purpose?

Associate Professor of Theology at the Boston University School of Theology, Shelly Rambo, believes that Holy Saturday is an important moment in which we are living beyond a death, a kind of metaphorical death, but can’t see life clearly ahead.

This might make little sense until you place it in a daily context. For example, our media has been filled with horrendous stories of child sexual abuse committed over many years by church leaders. Those survivors tell stories of lives forever damaged, of living in unrelenting darkness, of recurring traumatic episodes.

Crosslight is a monthly newspaper produced by the Communications and Media Services unit of The Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania.

It is published 11 times a year.

Opinions expressed in Crosslight do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the policies of The Uniting Church.

Advertising: Crosslight accepts advertising in good faith.

Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement.

Advertising material is at the discretion of the publisher.

Distribution: Crosslight is usually distributed the first Sunday of the month.

Ms Rambo wanted to understand how the Easter story could offer healing to victims of trauma. For her, a theological understanding of this middle day, Holy Saturday, enables a recognition that suffering remains, even if there is some measure of healing.

Speaking to Duke University’s Faith & Worship blog, Ms Rambo cites the story of doubting Thomas, who needed proof of Jesus’ wounds to become a believer. The focus has been on belief not the wounds. “I think we’re still not reading the wounds as seriously as we could in terms of the way in which life is marked by suffering,” she says.

“Maybe the work of the Christian community is to witness the wounds and bring them back into life again.”

So often, the deepest wounds appear to have no place in Christian community. We do not know how to sit with stories of pain.

The Royal Commission has exposed massive moral failures by institutions in which we have placed our trust. We also know that many more people have experienced abuse and trauma in other places.

Ms Rambo challenges us to think differently about redemption. “Perhaps the divine story is neither a tragic one nor a triumphant one but, in fact, a story of divine remaining, the story of love that survives. It is a cry arising from the abyss.

The question is: can we witness it?”

What does it mean for us to witness, to stand alongside, those who know the abyss? Whatever it may mean, we know that we are not alone.

Circulation: 21,000 (publisher’s figure).

Staff:

Deadlines: Advertising and editorial.

Executive Editor - Penny Mulvey Managing Editor - Deb Bennett Design, Digital Illustration and Print Services- Garth Jones Communications Manager - Nigel Tapp Online Content Coordinator - Emmet O’Cuana Communications Officer - Tim Lam P.A to Executive Editor - Lynda Nel Senior Media Officer - Ros Marsden

Please check exact dates on our website <crosslight.org.au>.

Closing date for May– Friday 15 April 2016.

Printing: Rural Press, Ballarat Visit Crosslight online: crosslight.org.au

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News Countdown to Synod 2016 PENNY MULVEY

THE 2016 Synod meeting convenes in just over two months. All are welcome to attend the opening service at Wesley Church Lonsdale Street on Friday 3 June beginning at 7.30pm. Rev Sharon Hollis, will be installed during worship before the business proper begins the following day at Box Hill Town Hall.

The theme for the forthcoming Synod is Letters of Recommendation. It draws its inspiration from 2 Corinthians 3 where Paul talks of members of the church being recommended not because of their own competence but because the Spirit of God has written on their hearts.

The concept of letters of recommendation resonates with Ms Hollis.

Wesley Mission Victoria joins UnitingCare Network Project WESLEY Mission Victoria (WMV) will join the UnitingCare Network Project (UCNP) following approval from the Uniting Church Synod Standing Committee at its March meeting. It confirms Wesley as

The early bird catches the conference A MULTI-FAITH conference exploring the relationship between spirituality and disability takes place this August at the Jasper Hotel in Melbourne. The conference, ‘Exclusion and Embrace: Disability, Justice and Spirituality’, is endorsed by a wide number of organisations including the Jewish Christian Muslim Association, the Faith Communities Council of Victoria and the Victorian Council of Churches. It will feature perspectives and stories from a range of faith traditions, as well as leading academics from Australia, the Netherlands and the USA who will share insights about theology and disability.

The Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania is providing secretariat support. Andy Calder, who is responsible for disability inclusion in the synod, is the convenor of the conference.

“We have a wide range of subjects to explore,” he said. “The place of people with disabilities within faith communities

“It reminds us that we bear witness to God and the gospel of Jesus in our bodies, in how we live and what we do with our time, our gifts, our money,” she said.

“We bear witness to what God has written in our hearts by showing up in love, humility and grace wherever there is need for a word or act of justice, truth, mercy or peace.”

Presbyteries are finalising their lay and ministerial members for the 2016 Synod over the next couple of weeks. According to the regulations of the Uniting Church, the membership of the Synod should not exceed 500, ensuring that the total number of lay members is not fewer than the total number of ministerial members. It is expected that up to 350 people will be in attendance for the five days of business, scheduled from Saturday 4 June until Wednesday 8 June.

The Synod meets as a community of discernment for that time, and therefore the Synod will be in session on Sunday 5 June. The Centre for Theology and Ministry has prepared worship materials for congregations whose ministers will be in attendance at Box Hill Town Hall.

Members will consider how the Church can become lighter and simpler as it responds

the 26th UnitingCare agency to be part of the network.

In announcing the news, Bob Hodges, Chair of the UCNP Project Control Group, and Sue Norman, Chair of WMV, said the best interests of the community drove the decision during a time of significant reform in the community services sector.

“The purpose of establishing a single agency is to better champion the capacity and skills of the network as a whole, sharing best practice and expertise in client care, and speaking as one voice for social advocacy,” Mr Hodges said.

to a changing world. This is a challenge for an institution which, because of its commitment to consensus and a governance model of four inter-related councils can, at times, seem unwieldy and unresponsive.

However, what can be a weakness is also a strength, as the Basis of Union highlights in paragraph 15: “Each council will recognise the limits of its own authority and give heed to other councils of the Church, so that the whole body of believers may be united by mutual submission in the service of the Gospel.”

Ms Hollis said that when God writes on our hearts we are given all we need for a life of faithful discipleship.

“Being written by God calls us to trust that God has given us all we need and to notice God’s presence and activity at work in creation and each person we meet.

“It is my prayer that during the forthcoming Synod we see each other as blessed sent gifts of God and that together we discern what God might be writing into the life of our Synod.”

“Wesley Mission Victoria joining the network project is an exciting development and testament to the strong spirit of collaboration in the Uniting Church community.”

With a combined annual turnover of $237 million, 3500 staff and 4000 volunteers, the 26 agencies currently provide a wide range of services that support thousands of people across Victoria and Tasmania.

Ms Norman said it was an important decision for the future of WMV. “The agency holds a special place in Melbourne’s heart, and this decision

provides the best opportunity for the organisation to continue its important work in the community for many years to come,’’ she said.

“We’re here to make a difference to people’s lives and this decision is about delivering the best possible outcomes for the people supported by us now and in the future.’’

The UCNP Project Control Group is responsible for developing the governance and high level organisational structure of the new agency with resulting changes to be implemented progressively during the second half of 2016.

has been problematic, and this unique conference will explore theological understandings and practical responses.”

The keynote speakers are focusing on topical issues and Mr Calder is also calling for delegates to nominate as presenters.

“We would love to hear from those attending who believe they have a unique perspective on this topic. Sharing of knowledge is an important element of the conference. Those who are interested in presenting need to submit their abstract by 10 April.”

There is also an opportunity to take advantage of the Early Bird registration special for delegates who register before 17 June. As well as hearing from speakers like Prof Hans Rinders, Chair of Ethics at Holland’s VU University and Rev Bill Gaventa, an international expert in faithbased support, delegates will be treated to an art exhibition that reflects people’s experience of disability and spirituality.

Anyone seeking more information on the conference can visit the website http:// exclusionandembrace.melbourne/ or phone Ann Byrne on 03 9251 5404. Information on the website is also available in Easy English.

‘Christmas baubles and sticky tape’ by Nathan Photiadis, who works within the Art Connects Program at Araluen Centre. Upon joining, he quickly started to forge his own style that reflects his like of order. His compositions are based on the controlled repetition of basic shapes and lines complemented by textural layers. More recently, Nathan has been experimenting by coating areas of the surface to allow the detail underneath to peak out and with a broader range of materials. He is a major prize winner in VALID’s (Victorian Advocacy League for Individuals with Disability) “Having a say” Art Award and has shown his work in numerous exhibitions over the past four years. Nathan’s work will be on display as part of the artists’ exhibition at the Exclusion and Embrace conference this August.

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

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India Budget Tour 31 Aug – 11 Sep 2016

Some of the Uniting Journeys tours in 2016 and January 2017 News Andhra Pradesh in South Eastern India in support of the Liora Project, which is work Ladakh India Trekking Tour June labour.

2016 women from indentured Remembering the Port Arthur

A moderate trek for couples interested in sharing walks in this stark landscape of the Himalayan massacre two hinterland.

decades on NIGEL TAPP

RETIRED Uniting Church minister Bob Some of the Uniting Journeys tours in 2016 and January 2017 Faser remembers attending an ecumenical

Some of the Uniting Journeys tours in 2016 and Jan

service in Hobart for the victims of the Dunblane Primary School massacre, in Scotland, in March 1996.

Mr Faser recalls how the general feeling among attendees was one of gratitude that Tasmania was shielded by its isolation from facing such horrors.

Only a month later many of the same people were gathered again – this time to remember the 35 victims of Australia’s worst mass murder at Port Arthur, on the Tasman Peninsula, on 28 April of that year.

The 35 – including tourists and locals ranging in age from the retired to a three-year-old girl – were killed by a single gunman in an act which sent shockwaves around the world.

The magnitude of the massacre was horrific, but it seemed surreal that it happened in a quiet, sleepy corner of the world many had previously never heard of.

The fact that Port Arthur was established as a penal colony and had been the scene of much barbarity in its early life was not lost on anyone either.

From Tasmania’s point of view, Port Arthur brought into clear focus the fact that nowhere was really safe. If such a tragedy could happen in Tasmania then it could happen anywhere.

Mr Faser recalls initially finding out about the massacre on the BBC radio world service on the Sunday afternoon.

“When I heard it I immediately switched over to ABC Radio but they were still broadcasting a football match. I don’t think the significance of what had happened had sunk in.”

Later that evening, as the full extent of the tragedy unfolded, Mr Faser led a regular evening service at the Cross St Uniting Church and said the events of earlier in the day had impacted on those who attended.

“There were certainly some people who had not been to our church before – it was as if they just needed to go to some sort of sacred space to help them deal with the news.”

As the General Secretary of the Tasmanian Council of Churches (TCC) at the time, Mr

Ladakh India Trekking Tour June 2016 Mannar Sri Lanka and the Donkeys Tour 14-­‐28 Oct 2016

A moderate trek for couples interested n sharing walks in this stark landscape of the Himalayan Ladakh India Trekking Tour Jiune 2016

An extraordinary opportunity to India Budget Tour 31 Aug – 11 Sep 2016 experience many aspects of this island nation of S hinterland.

Bob Faser

that will focus to n the town of Miannar.

A m oderate rek f or c ouples nterested in Liora sharing wwalks his sttark Eastern in support of the Project, hich iis n wtorking o free landscap local Andhra Pradesh in South Faser was heavilyIndia involved in the churches’

response to the tragedy.

Mr Faser said he understood from the very women from indentured labour. hinterland. first day that the TCC became involved in

assisting the people of the region that not all would be grateful.

“It was obvious that the people of the Peninsula were well and truly sick of suits from the city coming down,” he said.

“But, all of us from outside realised that we had a role to play, and our role was to support the local people. If there was any resentment that was ours to wear.”

Mr Faser remains impressed by how the Tasmanian community came together to support those who suffered at the hands of the gunman. He believes that example came from the leaders down.

“Politicians from all sides behaved incredibly well in their responses, making it as bipartisan as possible.

“They showed the potential which exists for working together when it becomes necessary.”

A simple public ceremony is planned for Port Arthur on April 28 at 12.30 pm with another service to be held at St David’s Cathedral in Hobart at the same time.

The anniversary each year since the 10-year commemoration has been marked by a wreath-laying service and one minute’s silence.

Mr Faser said it was important that any commemoration was done with sensitivity and pointed to a positive way forward.

India Budget Tour 31 Aug – 11 Sep 2016

Mannar Sri Lanka and the Donkeys Tour 14-­‐28 Oct 2016 India in support of the iLn iora Project, which is working to free local Andhra Pradesh Some inoSouth f the Eastern Uniting Journeys tours 2016 and January 2017

women from indentured labour.

An extraordinary opportunity to experience many aspects of this island nation of Sri Lanka with a Ladakh Tour 2016 that will Ifndia ocus Torekking n the town of June Mannar.

Responsible Travel in Burma (Myanmar) 22 Oct – 5 Nov 2016

A moderate trek for couples alks in India Budget Tour 31 interested Aug – 1in 1 sharing Sep 2w016 this stark landscape of the Himalayan

hinterland.

Frequently described as a country of mythical landscapes and ancient treasures our t

communities in transition.

Andhra Pradesh in South Eastern India in support of the Liora Project, which Mannar Sri fLrom anka aindentured nd the Donkeys Tour 14-­‐28 Oct 2016 women labour.

Upcoming journeys... come and join us!

An extraordinary opportunity to experience many aspects of this island nation of Sri Lanka with a Trekking Ladakh India Tour June 2016

An adventurous trek to suit different levels of experience, especially couples interested in sharing walks in this stark landscape of the Himalayan hinterland.

that will focus on the town of Mannar.

India Budget Tour 31 Aug – 11 Sep 2016

Responsible Travel in Burma (Myanmar) 22 Travel Oct – 5 NPradesh ov 2in016 to Andhra South Eastern India to befriend members of the Liora Project, which

is working to free local women from indentured labour and help them develop critical life skills.

Mannar Sri Lanka and the Donkeys Tour 14-28 Oct 2016 India Budget Tour 31 Aug – 11 Sep 2016 We travel back to Mannar (Donkeytown) on the extraordinary island nation Sri Lanka, to continue Frequently described as a country of mythical landscapes and ancient treasures our oftour will explore

developing the already close relationships in the community of Mannar. History, faith, and culture. communities in transition. in Burma (Myanmar) 22 Oct – 5to Nov 2016local in South Eastern India in support of tResponsible he Liora Travel Project, which is working free Andhra Pradesh Just beginning to engage with international community Myanmar is at a developmental fork in the road. A small group will travel

to explore key newB partnerships relationships with communities for a future long term engagement.

GOA India 3 – 29 January 2017 Asset ased and Community Development Conference women from i1 ndentured labour.

GOA India 13 – 29 January 2017 Asset Based Community Development Conference (ABCD) and Tour Explore the latest development in Asset Based Community Development ideas, India’s smallest state aG oathe in western India has1a coastlines stretching the Arabi and explore Portuguese heritage ofO Goa, smallest state Goa inalong western India Mannar Sri Lanka nd Donkeys Ttheour 4-­‐28 ct India’s 2016

with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea.

Contact Uniting Journeys:

Hank.VanApeldoorn@victas.uca.org.au An extraordinary opportunity to experience many aspects of this island nat Responsible Travel in Burma (Myanmar) 22 Oct – 5 Nov 2016 or 0403 264 124 that will focus on the town of Mannar.

Frequently described as a c2ountry of mBythical landscapes Daevelopment nd ancient treasures our atour ill explore GOA India 13 – 29 January 017 Asset ased Community Conference nd Twour.

Mannar Sri Lanka and the Donkeys Tour 14-­‐28 Oct 2016 communities in transition.

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

India’s smallest state Goa in western India has a coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea.

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News Garden project a blooming good idea UNITINGCARE Tasmania and the Brighton Council, in the state’s south, have joined forces to educate struggling families on the nutritional benefits of fresh food as well as help them develop the skills to grow their own produce.

The innovative partnership – which is also supported by a six-month Work for the Dole project – will see community gardens developed on council land adjacent to UnitingCare’s facilities at Old Beach and Gagebrook.

Work for the Dole participants are undertaking the initial planting, with fruit trees and vegetable patches taking shape at Old Beach before they move onto Gagebrook.

Once up-and-running, community members can participate in the program.

It will supplement the fresh food currently available through UnitingCare’s emergency food relief program, which is supported

by Second Bite. Second Bite redistributes surplus fresh food from businesses to community food programs throughout Australia.

UnitingCare Tasmania CEO Lindy O’Neill said she was excited by the prospect of seeing local residents getting their hands dirty by growing their own food and having the opportunity to learn how to prepare it.

“Many of the people we work with not only do not know how to grow food but have

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From left UnitingCare Tasmania CEO Lindy O’Neill, Work for the Dole participant Macuea Bona, Brighton Mayor Tony Foster and the council’s Manager-Development Services James Dryburgh prepare the first garden bed at Old Beach.

never leant how to prepare it,” Ms O’Neill said.

“Fresh food is important in the diet of young people for things such as brain development and, early in life, fresh food can give children the best chance of a fulfilling future.”

Ms O’Neill said another benefit was the therapeutic value associated with gardening, as well as the opportunity for families to work together on their own patch.

The project would also provide valuable skills for the Work for the Dole participants as they prepare themselves for the workforce.

Ms O’Neill said UnitingCare Tasmania and the council had developed a long standing relationship over the last two decades aimed at supporting struggling families in the region.

“The council is committed to assisting us to further develop our services and programs in the region.”

Brighton Mayor Tony Foster said the council was excited by the potential of the initiative.

“Council has built a strong relationship with UnitingCare over the years and we’re very happy to be able to support this latest project,’’ he said.

“Hopefully such skills get taken back to the gardens at people’s homes.

“As well as all the other benefits, the gardens will improve the amenity of a local area.’’

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

News

Ramzi Zain Deen (National Director) and Thevuni Kottigala (Programs Coordinator)

Lessons in unity LARRY MARSHALL WHAT would happen if you brought a young Muslim, a Tamil Christian and a Sinhalese Bhuddist out from Sri Lanka and asked them to talk about peace and social justice in a Uniting Church school?

For anyone who is familiar with the racial tensions in Sri Lanka post the civil war, this would seem unlikely. However, that’s just what happened at Aitken College on 1 March this year as part of the Interschool Social Justice Forum.

Ramzi Zain Deen (national director), Thevuni Kottigala (programs coordinator) and Manesh Christhumani (actor and youth trainer) are members of Sri Lanka Unites, part of the Youth Movement for Reconciliation and Hope in Sri Lanka.

They engaged with about 70 Year 9 and 10 students through the use of a special form of interactive theatre called Forum Theatre.

Forum Theatre invites the audience to be part of the action by intervening to change the oppression evident in the

Yirrmal

short plays. The students witnessed two scenarios involving aspects of racism and sexism with a perpetrator, a victim and a bystander.

The first was a job interview. One of the characters was asked inappropriate questions about how often he prayed as a Muslim and the manager was unwilling to hire him despite his obvious skills and passion for the job. The second was where an unskilled woman was hired for the same job, with clear cases of harassment being displayed in the interview.

The students were then asked to explain what was unfair or unjust in what had transpired. And they were invited to intervene to change the situation. They could choose to play the role of the victim or the bystander and hence change the script and challenge the injustice themselves as the play is re-done.

At the end of the session, it was in fact a young Sri Lankan student who assertively stood her ground and challenged the oppressor. The bystander also became active in pointing out the inappropriateness of the questions to rousing applause. This is empowering theatre at its best.

For more information go to: http:// srilankaunites.org/index.html

Narana Unplugged II NARANA Aboriginal Cultural Centre invites music lovers to a day of arts and entertainment with Narana Unplugged II. The festival will be held on Saturday 9 April from 12pm to 6pm at the Narana centre in Grovedale.

Indigenous rising star Yirrmal will headline the festival and perform on the purpose-built Boomerang Stage. He will be supported by Josh Seymour of Cherrywood fame and Jayden Lillyst. The festival will also showcase a host of local Geelong talent with bluesman Alister Turrill, troubadour Olly Friend, Narana’s own Deadly Duo and didgeridoo player Lyndon Arthur Perry.

The inaugural Narana Unplugged was held in April last year and reacquainted audiences with Narana as an immersive arts destination for the local Geelong community. This was followed by NaranaFest in November, which saw an array of established and up-and-coming artists, including legendary indigenous singer Archie Roach, perform in front of a large audience.

Narana is a division of the Uniting

Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress, the Indigenous arm of the Uniting Church. It was established in 1992 and continues to play an important role educating the community on Indigenous history and culture.

This year, Narana will highlight the importance of Songlines to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Songlines is the 2016 NAIDOC Week theme. It describes the dreaming tracks that recorded the journeys of ancestral spirits who ‘sang’ the land into life. These Songlines are captured in traditional songs, stories, dance and art.

Narana Unplugged II is an alcohol-free family event and kids under 12 can enter for free. With plenty of open space, visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic rug and some camp chairs and immerse themselves in the total Narana experience.

Café Narana will serve their festivalinspired menu featuring the famous Narana kangaroo sliders, tacos, souvlakis, fish and chips, corn on the cob and seven seeds coffee. Visitors can also visit the art gallery, adventure playground and meet the resident emus.

Tickets are available from Narana’s retail shop on the day for $20.

The Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre is located on 410 Torquay Rd, Grovedale VIC 3216

Position vacant

Non-executive Director UCA Funds Management is a social enterprise of The Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, with funds under management approaching $1 billion. We are Australia’s first dedicated ethical fund manager, with a plan to grow through managing funds for faith-based and charitable organisations as well as personal investors.

We are seeking a Non-executive Director to fill a casual vacancy. The present Board consists of the Executive Director and eight independent Directors whose experience spans senior positions in funds management, the professions, government and business management.

The ideal applicant will have operations experience at a senior executive level in funds management or similar financial services, as well as appropriate director level experience and/or qualifications. Graduates of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ course will be highly regarded.

The person appointed will be committed to working within the ethos of The Uniting Church in Australia. We are a proudly diverse employer and applications from women would be especially welcomed.

Applicants should provide a letter setting out why they believe they would be an appropriate appointee (maximum two pages) and a resume to People and Culture at People&Culture@victas.uca.org.au by 5.00 p.m. Sunday 17 April 2016.

For more information contact the People and Culture team on (03) 9251 5917 The UCA is committed to keeping children safe The UCA is proud to be an inclusive employer Appointment is subject to satisfactory police records and bankruptcy checks

www.ucafunds.com.au

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

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News Beaconsfield a decade on NIGEL TAPP A DECADE ago most Victorians would not have been able to confidently place the small Tasmanian mining town of Beaconsfield on a map, even if they knew it existed.

But then, on 25 April, 2006 – a decade ago this month – the Tamar Valley town became the centre of world attention when three miners were trapped 925 metres underground as a result of a rock fall triggered by a small earthquake.

The body of one miner, Larry Knight, was recovered a few days later. But Brant Webb and Todd Russell would be trapped until 9 May as the world watched and waited.

Within 24 hours the world’s media descended on Beaconsfield as residents tried to come to grips with what was unfolding.

At the centre of this community upheaval was the local Uniting Church and community minister Frances Seen.

The church first opened its doors in response to the tragedy on 26 April and the lights were not turned off again until Webb and Russell were rescued. And when the pair did land back on firm ground it was the ringing of the church bell – for the first time since World War Two ended – which first informed the community they were safe and well.

Mrs Seen said there was always a willing ear or shoulder available day and night and local parishioners – from Exeter to Beauty Point – made sure there was always food available.

“The Exeter people, from a church about 15 km away, sent a maxi taxi full of casseroles on the first day.”

In the middle of the unfolding drama Mrs Seen and her team also found time to comfort members of the media who suddenly lost one of their own – nationally recognised television journalist Richard Carleton – to a heart attack while covering the incident.

“The people from Exeter again sent casseroles on the day Richard died.”

Looking back on the events of a decade ago, Mrs Seen admitted that in the space of a few hours the entire town was turned upside down.

Mrs Seen said she had felt the underground tremor on 25April but thought little of it; such ground movement was not uncommon in a mining town.

The following morning, before travelling the 35 kilometres to Launceston for an appointment, Mrs Seen heard on the radio that miners had been trapped and taped a

simple “Please pray for our Miners” message to the front of the church.

By the time Mrs Seen got to Launceston there were calls for her to return so the church could begin providing support to the community it served.

“We started just to be here for the local people and it escalated from there,” she recalled.

“There was no plan, no agenda, we just put music on and sat there and prayed. It was certainly led by the (Holy) Spirit.

“Sometimes there would be a song or piece of scripture which would seem significant for that day, but most of the time we just prayed.”

Mrs Seen said the church was generally busiest after dark as people came to grips with another day going by and no guarantee Russell and Webb would actually walk out.

Many of the locals also saw the church as one place of refuge as the town became overrun with media. Mrs Seen said the media had, on the whole, acted with respect throughout the event.

“They were among the most respectful people I had come across. They did not seek to intrude and always rang and made appointments if they wanted an interview.”

That mutual respect was part of the reason the church opened its doors and embraced the media when Carleton tragically passed away.

“We just did what we thought was right for the media people. They did not need us preaching to them but we wanted to show them that we were thinking of them.”

Not everyone may have agreed with the fact alcohol was consumed on the church’s premises that night but Mrs Seen seems as unconcerned by the complaints now as she was then.

Mrs Seen admits that the disaster put the town on the map. Beaconsfield has re-invented itself as a tourist town in the aftermath, particularly given the mine was closed a couple of years after the incident.

“It showcased the town to the world in a way that we did not want. For years afterwards busloads of tourists would come.”

The Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre has a display devoted to the rescue and is a popular tourist attraction.

While that is a tangible reminder, Beaconsfield has not sought to remember the events on an annual basis. A recovery and reflection service on 9 May this year will be the first since 2007.

The service will be held at 11 am and people wishing to attend are asked to register with the West Tamar Council on 6323 9200.

Mrs Seen has been invited to speak and it is expected that only three people will grace the stage.

Although they still live locally, it is not known if Webb or Russell will attend.

Mrs Seen – who has known Russell all his life – said there had been a great deal of respect in the community for the pair which had allowed

them to go about their lives in privacy.

“I would think they feel comfortable here,” she said.

Mrs Seen said the events of a decade ago had shown the Uniting Church to be a true church of the community and she was proud of the way the West Tamar parishioners had rallied to the cause.

Life has returned to normal in Beaconsfield

today. Drive down the main street and there is little to remind you of what happened a decade ago.

And that is how the locals want it.

“You never forget it but you don’t dwell on it, you move on,” Mrs Seen said.

How the local newspaper reported the church’s role the day after the rescue

Francis Seen

BRING YOUR FRIENDS to opening worship and the installation of Moderator Rev Sharon Hollis – Friday 3 June 7.30pm, Wesley Uniting Church, 148 Lonsdale St, CBD. There will be an Auslan interpretor at the service.

DIARISE THE DATE 4-8 June 2016 at Box Hill Town Hall, 1022 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill PRAY FOR THE MEETING: for representatives from your presbytery, for our leaders and for all members of Synod as they seek wisdom and discernment in their discussions, deliberations and decision making.

CHECK FOR UPDATES ON THE APP: We’ve launched the Synod 2016 mobile app for information and regular updates and news about the meeting.

View it at https://crowd.cc/uca-victas-2016 or download the app from https://crowd.cc/s/7ASM 8

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

News Kicking goals for ReGen WOMEN who seek alcohol and other drug (AOD) services often encounter severe barriers and discrimination that negatively impact their recovery process. For mothers, the stigma and guilt associated with drug dependence can make treatment an even more confronting and challenging experience.

St Kilda Sharks Women’s Football Club has thrown their support behind UnitingCare ReGen’s work assisting women affected by alcohol and other drug use. For some women, substance use is a coping strategy to deal with the physical and psychological impacts of trauma. Sharks president Keryn Ralph said a variety of social issues interweave to impact women’s wellbeing.

“The experience of family or sexual violence, our cultural obsession with women’s appearance and everyday sexism or discrimination based on gender or sexual identity affects even the strongest women and can be a driver for mental health concerns and alcohol and other drug use,” Ms Ralph said.

“If you, or someone you care about, are struggling with alcohol or other drugs, services like ReGen can help. ReGen’s services are free, confidential and will help get your life back on track.”

ReGen CEO Laurence Alvis thanked the Sharks for their support and said it is an important step towards improving accessibility for women seeking AOD services.

“Support like this from the Sharks really helps increase awareness of our services and make it easier for women to get help when they need it,” Mr Alvis said.

“Our association with the club provides a tremendous opportunity to reduce alcohol and other drug-related harm and promote health and wellbeing.”

ReGen hosted an International Women’s Day event on 8 March, where attendees heard first-hand accounts of how stigma and discrimination can discourage women from seeking help. Participants also discussed how to make services more accessible for women.

This included providing more gender-specific

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

services, greater numbers of women in AOD sector leadership roles, increased consumer participation, stronger links with sexual assault services and the need to recognise women’s strengths instead of framing them as victims.

“We know that the responsibilities of parenting and the impacts of stigma, guilt and shame have particular impacts in women’s lives and can create both motivation to change and barriers to seeking help,” Mr Alvis said.

“There is a clear need for improving the accessibility of treatment and support programs for women and to ensure that services provide women and their families with safe, welcoming and effective responses to their needs.”

ReGen runs a range of programs to support women seeking AOD services. This includes a playgroup for parents and carers of pre-school children. It is specifically designed to support families coping with substance use, social isolation, family violence and mental illness.

A new ‘Mother and Baby’ withdrawal service is currently under construction at ReGen’s Ivanhoe centre and is due to open later this year. This purpose-built facility will improve the accessibility of alcohol and other drug treatment for women with babies up to 12 months of age and increase their safety and wellbeing while mothers undertake withdrawal.

“We are doing everything we can to make sure that our services are there for women when they need help and provide a holistic response to the many, interrelated factors that affect women’s wellbeing and quality of life,” Mr Alvis said.

“We’re doing what we can, but we need help reaching out to women throughout our communities.”

Tilly Lucas- Rodd of the St Kilda Sharks evades a tackle

9

Profile A heart for chaplaincy DEB BENNETT AS the coordinator of chaplaincy at Epworth Hospital in Richmond, Rev Lauren Mosso is continuing a decades-long church relationship with the hospital.

“The role of chaplain and pastoral care coordinator has been held by a Uniting Church (or Methodist) minister down through the ages. There’s a chain of people of whom I’m very proud to be one,” Ms Mosso said.

This tradition dates back to Methodist minister Rev William J Palamountain, who worked for more than five years to organise the finance to establish the hospital.

With the support of prominent Methodist businessmen and philanthropists of the time, Epworth opened its doors in 1920 as a 25-bed hospital under the auspices of the Methodist Church.

Named after the birthplace of John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, the hospital states it “reflects the ideals of the Methodist Church in providing the highest possible standard of care to patients”.

Much has changed since those very early days, when the hospital was based in the converted Yallcowinna mansion, but Ms Mosso said the Christian values of caring for the sick are still evident in her work today.

“That connection between the Epworth and the Uniting Church remains very strong.

“There is a UC minister on the ethics committee here specifically to bring in the Christian (Uniting Church) perspective.”

There is a long tradition of Clinical Pastoral Training (CPE) at Epworth. Rev Tom Rose is the Centre Director and I am a provisional supervisor in the program.

Part of the training is to recognise when personal experience of hardship or trauma might impact on the pastoral carer’s role.

“We are trained to listen deeply to the patient, but also our own heart and our own issues so it doesn’t interfere with dealing with the patient,” Ms Mosso said. “We can deal with it later with our own supervisor or colleague.

“Sometimes it is about the process of death and dying and how do you want to live out

Share awarded for excellence SHARE has won a major gong from the Fundraising Institute of Australia (FIA) National Gifts in Wills Award of Excellence.

The winners were announced at a gala dinner last month, with Share selected for their program which encourages donors to make a commitment to restore life, joy and

your last bit of time that you’ve got. We engage in deep discussion about what gives your life real meaning.”

The ‘listening’ aspect of chaplaincy is what differentiates the role from that of a welfare worker. A welfare worker will often be task orientated; helping a patient with money issues or living arrangements when they return home. For a chaplain, the conversations are not results driven, it is about listening without judgement or an agenda.

Ms Mosso said another important part of CPE training is to confront challenges to the chaplain’s personal faith.

“The analogy I use is that my oxygen mask that keeps my spirituality alive isn’t something I’m going to go and clamp over someone else’s face. It’s appreciating the different beliefs for different people. I believe that is God’s stance towards all of us.

“I try to be congruent with what I believe, but it’s not my role to convert. It’s my role to support the other person with whatever gives their life meaning and purpose.”

A typical day for a hospital chaplain includes visiting patients, responding to referrals, offering support to family members and supporting staff who may be affected by various issues.

Members of the pastoral team take it in turns to hold an ecumenical Christian service in the hospital chapel every Sunday morning at 10 o’clock. Patients who are unable to attend can access the service via their televisions and communion is offered at the bedside to patients on an individual basis. Ms Mosso said the relationship with neighbouring churches is vital, with priests from St Ignatius visiting to offer the sacrament of anointing to Catholic patients and ministers from St Stephens visiting patients of the Anglican faith.

Ms Mosso said the work of a hospital chaplain presents opportunities to engage with people on a deep level when they are facing profound emotions in their life.

“I have a heart for hospital ministry. Being with people in their life and death issues, the stuff of real life ministry is what attracts me. We are meeting people at a really pivotal time in their life, so the intensity is much greater than in normal ministry.

Epworth Richmond employs seven CPEqualified pastoral care workers with a diversity of gifts.

“Our pastoral team is a lovely group of people who have a real passion for what we do. So to be a part of this, to be the coordinator of this team, is a great privilege.”

Lauren Mosso

News

hope to people who are disadvantaged or in crisis through a gift in their Will.

Share director Angela Goodwin said the team is delighted to have won the inaugural award.

“We feel very honoured and would like to thank our incredibly generous donors for supporting our work,” Ms Goodwin said.

“Without them, we wouldn’t be able to transform lives and help local people who need assistance to get their lives back on track.”

Will The War On Terror Ever End?

Presented by Prof Joseph Camilleri OAM Professor Camilleri, in this special lecture at St Michael’s Hall, discusses what lies behind the killing and how best to respond to it.

6pm, Thursday 7 April Tickets: $15 (includes refreshments) Bookings: www.stmichaels.org.au or call 9654 5120

Share encourages people to leave money in their Will to assist people to cope with a range of socio-economic issues.

“From homelessness to people who don’t have enough money for food, Share is unique in its ability to touch the lives of thousands of people who would otherwise be forced to go without,” Ms Goodwin said.

The Awards are a key component of FIA’s commitment to champion best practice in fundraising. It recognises the initiatives of fundraisers, volunteers and

organisations and celebrates fundraisers’ hard work and successes throughout the year. It also provides an opportunity for acknowledgement by peers and promotes the role of fundraising in improving our society.

Share raises funds to resource UnitingCare and Uniting Church services to the community in Victoria and Tasmania and responds to crisis and disaster in Australia and abroad.

Developing Your Best Identity After 60.

Dr Francis Macnab presents this lecture of high relevance to everyone over the age of 55.

11am, Friday 29 April Tickets: $20 (Includes tea, coffee and a light lunch) Booking: www.stmichaels.org.au or call 9654 5120

St Michael’s

120 C OLLIN S ST M ELBOU R N E W W W.ST M IC H AELS.OR G . A U

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CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

Profile In service of others ROS MARSDEN

WHEN the team at Crosslight read the results of the survey our readers completed at the end of 2015, we were moved by the nature and diversity of volunteering that everyone accomplishes. Not only do people help with church and churchrelated activities (heaps of them!), they also put their hands up for community volunteering across a range of interests.

Volunteer activities you nominated included water exercise, Red Cross, garden groups, historical societies, museums, school alumni, lifesaving, mental health, disability, Leprosy Mission, emergency relief, visiting the elderly, home tutoring, assisting new mothers with an addiction, community banking, asylum seeker support, town welcoming, hospital visiting, book clubs, sing-a-longs and help with knitting at nursing homes, band playing, CFA, palliative care visits, op shops, serving on boards and committees, Meals on Wheels, music therapy, walking groups, car driving mentorship, school breakfasts, Probus, Girl Guides and Scouts, driving older people, conservation, cooking at camps, cemetery trusts, teaching English, school and children’s programs. Wow! Inspired by your survey answers, Crosslight talked with some Uniting Church volunteers at three churches across Victoria.

Dean Langford Williamstown Uniting Church Dean Langford loved football. At 16 he discovered the only way to join the local church footy group was if he agreed to attend church twice a month. What started as a teenage duty turned into a life of dedication for the 86-year-old who is a regular worshipper at Williamstown Uniting Church in Melbourne’s West.

Dean is typical of the volunteers that ensure Sunday services and events run smoothly in our churches. Every week he empties the rubbish bins and returns to collect them.

Each Sunday he arrives at 9 am to open and prepare the church for the 10 am service.

“I always make sure to check the batteries in the microphone and the audio visual system. My hour and a quarter church service usually amounts to around three hours by the time I finish up!”

Dean also picks up one and sometime two parishioners who use walkers and are unable

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to drive themselves to church. The pick-ups need to be done one at a time because the walkers take up space in the car.

Williamstown Uniting Church has many historic features and boasts a grand old clock. A few years ago, when renovations were taking place, there was talk about making the clock electric, but alarm bells literally went off and tradition won with the clock retaining a wind-up system. Every eight days Dean climbs the stairs to keep the clock ticking “and I’ll do it till I’m too old to manage the climb.”

What does Dean like best about volunteering? “If you do something, you feel a part of it, a sense of ownership. It’s important to ask people to help rather than waving them goodbye straight after a service. Most people value being invited to participate. I recommend volunteering to everyone.”

Margaret Barbour Strathmore Uniting Church The Strathmore Uniting Church Craft Group “pulled a swifty” on co-ordinator Margaret Barbour when she turned 90 last February. “I arrived and they produced a birthday cake with candles. It was part of a wonderful week of family and friends spoiling me with multiple celebratory treats,” she said.

It’s no surprise that Margaret’s birthday was a big occasion. She and her husband Des married in 1949 and moved to Strathmore where they joined the local Uniting Church.

From the start they enjoyed community involvement and, in 1980, Margaret decided to form the Craft Group for the whole community to enjoy. In 2016 the group, currently numbering eight women, continues to meet every Thursday morning.

They create items that are knitted or crocheted, including tea cosies, coathangers and hand-towels. They also make cards with a focus on recycling which helps expand their creative ideas. “And sometimes we invite guest speakers who share new ways of doing things. This helps us think differently in our own craft-making,” Margaret explained.

The Craft Group has a fundraising store at the church fair and the items sold by the volunteers are among the most popular purchases.

“My greatest satisfaction is the friendship and the fun I gain from being part of the group. And of course the pride in making our craft items.”

imagined that volunteer John McQueen would be using a ride-on lawn mower to keep the four acre grounds tidy in 2016.

The grass-cutting is just one of the many tasks John and partner Val Williams enjoy as part of their volunteer work for the historic church and its congregation. “We just do what needs to be done,” observed Val. “It’s a big part of our life and while we can do it, we will.”

The jobs are diverse. They range from picking up rubbish, building a fence to stop locals doing wheelies, setting up church for Sunday worship, tending the historic cemetery where Rev Gunn is buried, and maintaining the community garden established in the church grounds.

Preparation on Sunday starts just after 8 am and involves checking microphones, table

set-ups, laying out cups and saucers for morning tea, cleaning toilets and putting on heaters in winter. “Of course it’s not only us,” Val explained. “Everybody pitches in; that’s the nature of volunteering.”

One of John’s favourite jobs is ringing the church bell which can be heard chiming out across the district. In keeping with Rev Peter Gunn’s Scottish heritage, the bell’s mechanism is in the shape of a scotch thistle.

“Oh and did I mention we help organise a social night once a month which includes a three course meal in winter?” Val added.

“It’s lovely to have opportunities to share food and conversations together.”

Do you have a volunteer story you would like to share with Crosslight? Write to us at crosslight@victas.uca.org.au

Dean Langford

Margaret Barbour

John McQueen and Val Williams

Val Williams and John McQueen, Campbellfield Uniting Church When Rev Peter Gunn worked on establishing the first bluestone church in Campbellfield in 1855, he could never have

11

People “Charlie” Wolthuizen at Coolamatong

Synod family camps THE March long weekend is traditionally a time of camping in the Uniting Church.

The Synod Social Justice Family camp at Adekate is in its sixth year. This year approximately 70 people (16 families) with ages ranging from four through to 18 explored the theme of ‘the personal is political’, looking at prayer and social justice.

Wesley Mission Victoria seeks foster carers WHEN Jenny Holden and her husband Arthur retired, they felt they finally had time to give something back to the community.

Twelve months ago, they enquired about becoming foster carers through Wesley Mission Victoria. But Ms Holden, who recently celebrated her 70th birthday, wondered if she was too old.

“Turns out we weren’t. We’ve discovered that if you love kids and you want to help, then you’re never too old,” Ms Holden said.

So far, 18 children have stayed at the couple’s house. While there are inevitable challenges, they believe the rewards far outweigh the tough times.

“Little by little you see the changes, and their growing confidence gives us so much joy,” Ms Holden said.

On the first day, families discussed their personal values and what sort of a world they would like to see. In the afternoon, people played countries as part of a UN role-play game where they were challenged to negotiate a deal in order to stop climate change. This led the teenagers to create a movie about standing up for what they believed in which was shown as part of worship on the last day.

At Norval Lodge, the Presbytery of Western Victoria ran PC4U, which stands for Presbytery Camp for Youth. The theme – ‘B

You, B +ve, Believe’ (Be You, Be Positive & Believe) – aimed to build self-esteem in teenagers from grade 6 through to Year 12. The camp focused on bible texts that show the young people that they are God’s incredible work of art [Eph 2:10] and included tips on praying and improving their inner self-talk. Leader Rev Linley Liersch said, “Camp is a place for young people to ask questions and explore faith as well as have stupendous fun.”

In Gippsland, the Traralgon district Family Camp met at Coolamatong. Their camp

As a key local foster care agency, Wesley provides around-the-clock support and training to carers in the southern and eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Victoria experiences a shortfall of more than 300 carers every year. They provide essential care and support for children and young people who cannot live with their families.

Wesley CEO Paul Linossier encourages Victorians to open their hearts and homes to children and young people who are unable to live with their families.

“We’re spreading the message that you don’t need to be a superhero to be a foster carer,” Mr Linossier said.

“Wesley’s own carers constantly tell us that it’s the small, ordinary things that make a huge difference to a life of a child or young person in need, like reading a bedtime story or giving lots of encouragement on daily milestones.”

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, contact Wesley’s foster care team on (03) 9794 3000. You can find more information at wesley.org.au.

Ken Blackwell celebrates dual milestones

Jenny and Arthur Holden

A Celebration of Ministry N ELAINE A VALENZUELA-JIMENEZ

Ptr. Jim’s last sermon at St. Albans UCA

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VALENTINE’S DAY was a day of loving and a service day of release for Rev James Stewart Murray who retired on 29 February. Pastor Jim, as we fondly call him, became the Minister of the Word at St Albans and Sydenham/Caroline Springs congregations in September 2011.

Pastor Jim’s ministries demonstrated his capacity to work cross-culturally, as well as the ability to minister effectively in both traditional and non-traditional congregations.

At St. Albans (SAUCA), which is the home of the first Filipino UCA congregation in Australia, he nurtured people in their Christian faith and spiritual development

FRIENDS and family helped Rev Ken Blackwell celebrate his 100th birthday in January at a party in Hobart which also recognised 74 years since ordination.

He received a book on his life as well as greetings from the Queen, the Prime Minister, the Governor General, the Department of Veteran Affairs, many friends and members of his family.

Mr Blackwell was born in Brisbane and attended Eagle Junction Congregational Church with his parents and siblings, and was active in the Christian Endeavour Society.

He trained for the ministry in Melbourne and was ordained at the Toowoomba Congregational Church in January 1942.

In April 1942 he and the late Ruth Cribb married at Milton Congregational Church and they had seven children leading to 19 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Mr Blackwell went from Toowoomba to be a Padre in Borneo and then a minister at Ballarat, Adelaide, and Maitland, South Australia, before returning to Queensland for seven years at the Ipswich Central Congregational Church until1966.

In Ipswich Mr Blackwell encouraged Neville Bonner to represent the Indigenous community in federal parliament and Mr Bonner became the first Aboriginal person to win a seat, serving as a Queensland senator for many years.

Early in 1966 the Blackwells moved to the Memorial Congregational Church, in Hobart, followed by the Devonport and Penguin Uniting Churches.

and helped the church congregation grow with new members from the Pacific Islands, Africa and Vietnam. At the Sydenham-Caroline Springs congregation, he guided the faith community (which was started by members of St Albans in 2004), through a number of changes that ultimately led to their recognition as a congregation of the Uniting Church in Australia.

With Pastor Jim’s assistance, St Albans received a grant from the Lenten Share appeal to assist the Vietnamese fellowship in their community service and afterschool homework programs. At Sydenham/ Caroline Springs, Pastor Jim and the leadership group initiated a number of outreach events and developed a good relationship with the local Neighbourhood House. And working with the Presbytery he helped St Albans/Sydenham-Caroline Springs in their successful submission to BOMAR (Board of Mission and Resourcing) to partly fund a Regional

has been running for 15 years (meeting originally at Lake Tyers). Bill Degnan, an organiser of the camp said, one of the things he enjoys most is the tradition of “sitting on the waterfront eating our fish and chips while we watched the boats arriving in the Marley Point Yacht Race, with the little children playing on the beach, digging in the sand or splashing in the water”.

For all three camps, the opportunity to connect and share with others in a faith context keeps people coming back year after year.

Ken Blackwell celebrates

Multicultural Youth Worker.

At St Albans, our support for UnitingWorld’s global mission, Share Appeal, Christmas Bowl and Lentara UnitingCare grew and our Mission Support Group developed partnerships with three Filipino Church community-based projects in Tondo, Sampaloc and San Andres Bukid in Manilla.

Pastor Jim believes mission, like worship, is essential to the life of any congregation.

He reminded us that a congregation is called to be engaged continually in the transforming work of kingdom – according to its gifts and graces.

The service of release for Pastor Jim coincided with the 24th anniversary of the St Albans Filipino UCA congregation.

The occasion was indeed a celebration of ministry. The joint choir of St. Albans and Sydenham-Caroline Springs UCA sang ‘Cornerstone’ as their farewell song to Pastor Jim giving thanks to God for his great faithfulness.

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

Feature

s ’ a i r o t iV c s w iV e

THROUGHOUT the past month, Crosslight’s Garth Jones and Tim Lam have travelled throughout Victoria meeting some of the church neighbourhoods that make up the Vic/Tas synod.

From songs, to BBQs; fruit picking to political action, these rural churches encompass what it is to be a missional community.

TIM LAM reports.

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

13

Feature Robinvale community opens doors to backpackers NESTLED along the Murray River, the regional town of Robinvale is perhaps best known for its fruit and agricultural produce. In recent years, it has become home to an influx of backpackers and migrant workers seeking employment on the farms.

However, many of these workers are exploited by unscrupulous labour contractors. They are often subjected to degrading living conditions, gross underpayment of wages and sexual harassment.

The mistreatment of migrant workers is an issue that greatly concerns members of St Luke’s Uniting Church in Robinvale. Many church council members are community leaders who work in social services to assist disadvantaged groups.

Retired minister Rev Brad Harris is the former minister of Robinvale Uniting Church. He approached the synod’s Justice and International Mission (JIM) unit in late 2014 to discuss how the congregation could tackle the abuse of migrant workers.

Denisse Sandoval and Rev Berlin Guerrero from the JIM unit visited Robinvale to engage the congregation members in community organising training.

“This community here couldn’t exist without our workers who come in and are prepared to do short-term work,” Mr Harris said.

“There are a lot of changes in Australia, but everybody knows the world has got to have food. And that’s what this community does.”

In November last year, Mr Harris and four other Uniting Church members visited the office of Nationals MP Andrew Broad, federal member for Mallee. They shared stories of how unethical labour contractors are exploiting foreign workers in the Mildura and Robinvale area.

“The government is starting to take some interest and we got a bit of publicity,” Mr Harris said.

“People who are involved in the church life tend to be deeply involved in the community. They are social activists and do work that involves working with people.”

The migrant workers sometimes visit the Uniting Church in Robinvale to look for assistance or companionship. Mr Harris said the church excels at offering hospitality and support for vulnerable people.

“When things go bad for people and they’re not in their home country, they don’t know where to go,” Mr Harris said.

“We’ve had people turning up to our church just needing and wanting friendship, and we’re pretty good at providing that.”

One place in Robinvale that has become a hotspot for young backpackers is the house of church council member, Tony Gaby. Mr Gaby regularly hosts backpackers from countries such as Taiwan, Korea and Hong Kong.

The arrangement began in 2007 through a chance encounter with a young Korean who visited the Robinvale congregation.

“He couldn’t speak English and it was obvious that he was struggling financially. I said I’ll visit him on Tuesday nights, and his body language almost ate me alive because he was so thrilled to have someone come and visit him,” Mr Gaby said.

Eventually, the young man and his two

friends came to live with Mr Gaby.

Since then, more than 200 backpackers have stayed at Mr Gaby’s house. He has become somewhat of a celebrity within the Taiwanese backpacker community and is well-known in social media circles.

In addition to offering safe and secure accommodation, Mr Gaby’s house provides a space where long-term friendships can be formed. Conversations are often exchanged over card games and these interactions help visitors improve their English skills.

“I don’t run a business, I run a family. So they join the family,” Mr Gaby said.

“I went to Taiwan for Chinese New Year this year and it was lovely to meet the parents of young people that have stayed with me and meet the husbands they have married and the children that have now arrived.

“I feel like I’ve got children and grandchildren in every Asian country!”

The exploitation of foreign workers is an issue that is on the hearts and minds of many people in Robinvale. Mr Gaby believes the federal government needs to crack down on black market contractors who currently slip through the cracks and escape government oversight.

“Like many others in the Robinvale community, we agonise over the fact that we have a system that allows the exploitation of workers,” he said.

“That exploitation starts with contractors, who are just mistreating them with poor housing and poor financial benefits from the work they do. It’s a real problem.

“The government is starting to listen to us and starting to do things, so we’re looking forward to action in this area in the future.”

Another issue concerning the Robinvale community is the federal government’s proposal to tax backpackers on working holiday visas 32 cents for every dollar they make. This could potentially deter

Multicultural ministries in Sunraysia THE Sunraysia region in north-west Victoria is characterised by large wineries, warm sunshine and vibrant multicultural communities.

Many Uniting Church congregations in this region rely on the dedication of hardworking lay leaders to coordinate church programs and host worship services in their native language.

Rev Siotame Paletu’a is minister for the Sunraysia region, covering Mildura, Dalton, Wentworth, Irymple, Red Cliffs and Merbein. He is also temporary minister for Robinvale.

“The rewarding thing for me is witnessing lay ministry, where people use their gifts to maintain worship and maintain their churches in this region,” Mr Paletu’a said.

“It’s also rewarding to see people from different cultures involved in the church, especially in Mildura, Robinvale and Irymple.”

Many migrants to the region are young families who bring their children to church, injecting a youthful flavour to what were previously ageing congregations.

Irymple is home to a strong Tongan community while the Mildura congregation has an active Cook Islander community that hosts a service in their own language every Sunday. At the centenary celebrations at St Andrew’s Uniting Church in Mildura last year, the Tongan and Cook Islander communities entertained guests with traditional music and dance.

Robinvale, an hour’s drive south of Mildura, is also home to a culturally diverse community. More than 40 nationalities are represented in a town of 14

backpackers from coming to regional towns like Robinvale. Backpackers contribute around $3.5 billion annually to the Australian economy and around 40,000 of them are employed on farms.

“It is going to be devastating for many of our farming people, who will lose their ability to employ people because they’re not going to want a job where they’re going to lose a third of their wages in taxation,” Mr Gaby said.

“That’s meant to come in on 1 July and there’s a lot of lobbying going on by farmers’ groups.”

Many Taiwanese and Korean Christians who have stayed with Mr Gaby expressed a desire to participate in worship, but often struggled because of language and accent barriers.

Mr Gaby is now spearheading a Sunday night fellowship hour for backpackers, so they can worship in their own language.

His numerous connections with former and current backpackers meant he could obtain translated posters to promote the service.

“We’ve put the sign up in English, Chinese and Korean at the supermarket and stores in town that are frequented by backpackers,” Mr Gaby said.

“So many young people said to me over the years they wish there was something on Sunday nights because they work on Sunday mornings and don’t have an opportunity to go to church.”

The JIM unit has created a petition asking federal Minister for Justice Michael Keenan to set up a licensing system for labour hire companies to put an end to exploitation. You can sign the petition at bit. ly/StopExploitation

St Andrew’s, Mildura

Fijian choir, Robinvale Robinvale Uniting Church Tongan choir

approximately 4,000 people (although this can swell to 8,000 to 10,000 people during harvest season). This includes Indigenous Australians and migrants from Vietnam, Tonga, Fiji, Malaysia, Korea, Taiwan, Italy and Turkey.

This diversity is reflected in the demographic of the Uniting Church in Robinvale. The church has a large Tongan and Fijian congregation along with a smaller proportion of Anglo members.

Foreign workers and young backpackers from Korea and Taiwan frequently visit the church.

Lupe Taumoefolau is a church elder and lay preacher at St Luke’s Uniting Church in Robinvale. She came to Robinvale 26 years ago from Tonga.

“I’m very proud to be a member of the Uniting Church here in Robinvale. I enjoy worshipping together with other cultures,” Ms Taumoefolau said.

“We learn from each other and come together as Christians to worship.”

The congregation worships together on Sunday mornings but also have separate services in Tongan and Fijian.

The number of Fijians in Robinvale has grown in recent years. Some have settled permanently while others are seasonal workers who stay for temporary work.

Church leader Jim Waqalevut has been instrumental in growing the Fijian congregation in Robinvale. His house, located in neighbouring Euston on the other side of the Murray River, is used as a place of worship for night services.

Val Tucker, parish secretary for Robinvale Uniting Church, said the Tongan and Fijian members have brought tremendous energy and enthusiasm to the congregation. Their singing, in particular, is a joy to witness and greatly enriches the worship experience.

“The Fijian choir is sweet and gentle, the

Tongans are bold and loud, which is a lovely contrast,” Ms Tucker said.

“There’s definitely no separateness as far as fellowship goes. The Fijian and Tongan people are very warm and caring towards the elderly. Everyone grieves together when somebody dies and is happy when a baby is christened.”

Mr Paletu’a is delighted to see people from different cultures uniting to worship one God. Together, they bring alive the church’s commitment to be an inclusive and multicultural community.

“It is working well interculturally, with people from different nationalities feeling they are part of the congregation,” Mr Paletu’a said.

“When they come to a congregation like Mildura, Robinvale and Irymple, they feel welcomed.”

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Feature Shepparton youth lead the way in community service EVERY Friday evening, youth from Shepparton and Mooroopna Uniting Church cook at the community kitchen at Victoria Park Lake.

The program was initiated by People Supporting People, a non-profit organisation that provides free hot meals for people experiencing homelessness.

It is supported by a range of community organisations and churches in the Goulburn Valley region, including the Uniting Church in Shepparton.

Youth group members Matthew Smith and Neema Maulidi explained why they became involved in the community kitchen.

“Being born into a family with everything, I feel like I need to give back a bit,” Mr Smith said.

“I’ve learnt not to judge people by the way they look like. You can learn from their experiences too.”

Ms Maulidi said she has become more comfortable engaging with people who live on the margins of society.

“The most rewarding part is knowing you have served someone today and that they have something in their stomach to eat,” she said.

“You’re helping the community, giving back and making someone else’s life better.”

The youth group was the main driver behind the church’s involvement in the program. Shepparton Uniting Church member Lorraine Threlfall, coordinator of the youth group, expressed great pride in

Godspell comes to Bendigo THE Weeroona Uniting Church in Bendigo performed the musical Godspell on the Palm Sunday weekend.

The popular Broadway production tells the story of Jesus’ ministry, culminating in his crucifixion on the cross. The musical is structured around the parables in Matthew’s gospel and is interspersed with modern music set primarily to lyrics from traditional hymns.

Weeroona Uniting Church member Vern Wall is director of Godspell. He said that while a small part of the musical was modified, their adaptation maintained the spirit and songs of the original production.

“We felt it was really meaningful to have the story of Godspell just before Easter. It’s a really powerful presentation to do leading up to Holy Week,” he said.

“We also find it’s a great way to bring families together, particularly as we have amalgamated three churches.”

In 2014, the Bendigo congregations at Arnold Street, Neale Street and White Hills merged to form the Weeroona congregation. As a relatively new church, the musical provided an ideal opportunity for congregation members to combine their voice and talents together.

Musical productions demand much preparation and hard work from dedicated volunteers. Approximately 70 people from the church and the wider community were involved in Godspell. This included 25 people in the choir, 30 in the chorus, 12 musicians and people helping out backstage and acting as ushers on the day of the performance.

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Neema Maulidi, Lorraine Threlfall and Matthew Smith

the young men and women for taking the initiative to lead the congregation in this important community activity.

“It’s so good to stand up in our congregation and say to them that our young people want to engage with this program and they’re inviting you to be in a team with them,” she said.

The church’s participation in the community kitchen has strengthened the relationship between the younger and older members of the congregation. Because most of the youth group members are in high school, they require an adult driver to transport them to Victoria Park Lake. Some of the youth bring their parents along to the community kitchen while others are in a team with an adult church member.

“The age of people involved in this range from 11 to nearly 90 years old. That, to me, reflects the understanding that the church is a family and involves all ages,” Ms Threlfall said.

When Crosslight visited the community kitchen, many visitors were German backpackers who recently arrived in Australia. Similar to Robinvale, the exploitation of foreign workers is an increasingly prominent issue in Shepparton.

Initiatives such as the community kitchen offer a safe and welcoming space for people experiencing financial hardship.

“The backpackers were amazed at the free BBQ, free food and free showers that they can experience in our town,” Ms Threlfall said.

“There’s also a group of people who come every night. This is where they get their companionship, community and food.

“I always go home thinking I’ve learnt something new. I’ve learnt how people live with adversity, yet still have a kind word to say and a kind deed to do for someone else.”

Ms Threlfall said a strong community spirit emerges from these nightly BBQs. She recalled a story of a man who came to the

kitchen one night with his sick dog.

“He asked if I could give a sausage for the dog. So he took the sausage, broke it into small pieces, blew on it so it was cool and fed the dog one small piece at a time. Only when the dog finished its sausage did he begin to eat,” she said.

“I thought that’s a great example of living for another being, and that’s demonstrated over and over again in this community. It’s a privilege to be able to witness that.”

For Ms Threlfall, volunteering at the community kitchen is a practical expression of her faith.

“If we take seriously the command of Jesus to feed the hungry and provide a home for the homeless, then this is a natural extension of that,” she said.

“We started rehearsing at the start of February,” Mr Wall said.

“We’ve tried to do a church musical once every two years. It’s a big effort so it can’t be something that can be approached every year.

“Outreach is another aspect of Godspell, so we’d like the community to come along and connect with them that way.”

Damien Hurrell is a member of the Weeroona congregation and played the roles of John the Baptist and Judas.

“They’re fairly hefty roles with some heavy-duty stuff in it, but I’ve really looked forward to it,” Mr Hurrell said.

“I’ve been a member here for many years and I’m quite an enthusiastic singer. When we talked about doing a musical – and I’ve been in the last couple – I was keen to be a part of it.”

The Weeroona congregation may only be two years old, but it is already an active and vibrant community. Rev Susan MalthouseLaw began her ministry at Weeroona last year and said it was a privilege to be part of a congregation that has a strong commitment to outreach and creative collaboration.

“Getting to know everyone has been a great blessing and becoming part of this very enthusiastic community, leading worship and doing creative things in worship has been lots of fun,” Ms Malthouse-Law said.

“Just being part of a community and bringing God alive in new and different ways for the community has been really exciting.

“We are a very busy congregation – we’ve got multiple afternoon fellowship groups, numerous home bible studies groups, kids’ club, a youth group, a very talented choir, a playgroup and a men’s breakfast group that meets on Saturday morning. There are lots of things going on.”

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Review Witness to history

THE Bible contains a library of dramas.

Similar to a festival of plays we have, in the one book, historical, romantic, morality and mystical plots.

Valerie Volk invites us to become immersed in 15 of these stories through the eyes of bystanders to the main action. Just as any great play contains cameo roles, so too do the well-known Bible narratives. So often our attention concentrates on the big names in any drama, that we fail to speculate on the nuances and commentary which might be offered by the ‘bit players’ or people

in the crowd. Like a skilled director, Volk pans her camera onto the periphery of the narrative, thus bringing a fresh insight into the main storyline.

She takes as some of her examples the anguished, imaginary thoughts of Sarah seeing her son Isaac about to be sacrificed; the possible yearnings of the woman accused of adultery and the reflections of the father of the blind man healed by Jesus. Resembling a monologue in a Shakespearean drama, we enter the innermost depths of the human soul.

Many Bible studies for congregational use now employ the lectio divina practice of reading, meditating, praying and contemplating the Word, thus promoting communion with God. A good director will instruct his actors to enter into the mindset of the characters portrayed.

This method-acting technique and lectio divina principles have been employed

with consummate skill by this writer to revitalise some well-known and other less well-known passages of scripture.

Is it time for us in our tech-savvy world to engage with our emotions by experiencing these Biblical narratives, rather than a cerebral exegesis of the text? If we follow the revelations offered by Bystanders, we will surely bring a profound understanding and contemporary relevance to these pericopes, similar to what the medieval mystery plays brought to that era.

With questions at the end of each chapter which would provoke lively discussion, this book would make an excellent resource for church study groups and perhaps also for preachers seeking a different application to their sermon texts. It is recommended for its evocative, poetic language.

illegal, but shocking, deeply offensive, and from which most of us would revile?

This is the environment in which the modern-day soldier inhabits. It is why there are strict rules of war, an international code of acceptable behaviour within a war context. But war is changing. Increasingly sophisticated weaponry and terrorism in particular, have disrupted the military landscape.

Moral Injury grapples with the differences between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and what has been termed ‘moral injury’, as health professionals have sought to help veterans recover from the impact of war.

The book features a series of essays by a range of highly qualified Australian academics, theologians, ethicists, soldiers, chaplains and medical professionals. Editor Professor Tom Frame, director of the Australian Centre for the Study of Armed Conflict and Society (ACSACS), outlines in the foreword that the project developed out of a growing interested in “the subject of unseen wounds within and beyond the Australian Defence Force”.

The ACSACS’s mission “is to assess the past, present and likely future impact of armed conflict on institutions and individuals in order to enhance public policy and raise community awareness”.

This particular book is the result of a

major multi-disciplinary study of moral injury which began in July 2014.

Each chapter is a stand-alone essay that adds new and sometimes contradictory insights to the concept of ‘moral injury’. Urban warfare creates many complications for soldiers, as was presented so graphically in Clint Eastwood’s anti-war movie American Sniper. Is the killing of civilians merely seen as ‘collateral damage’? The evidence is that soldiers are damaged in a manner beyond PTSD when they are forced to take action that goes deeply against their belief system.

A soldier faced with killing a human shield of women and children, in the knowledge that behind them are enemy soldiers seeking to kill them; a person sitting in front of a computer screen who is given the order to send the drone into a building thousands of miles away, detached and unbloodied.

American clinical psychiatrist, Dr Jonathan Shay, was one of the first to write on moral injury. He described it as a ‘soul wound inflicted by doing something that violates one’s own ethics, ideals or attachments’. Rhiannon Neilsen, a Canberra academic, claims that moral injury ‘is an experience specific to the agent who regards him or herself, rightly or wrongly, as the perpetrator or culpable bystander of a

morally unacceptable act’. For Neilsen, the difference between moral injury and PTSD is the role the individual inhabits. She believes PTSD can develop ‘when people are victims of or witness to a traumatic and possibly, but not necessarily, immoral event’.

Another essayist argues that ‘moral injury’ only occurs when the person has been morally changed by the event.

For example, if the person sending the drone into the building no longer even considers the impact of what they are doing, a moral injury has been incurred because the very fibre of the individual’s being has been distorted.

The concept of ‘moral injury’ reinforces why, as Christians, we must continue to advocate for peace. However, it also invites us to consider what we have to offer in the way of healing to those among us who have been damaged by war.

This is a fascinating and challenging book, a valuable contribution to our understanding of the deep wounds inflicted on men, women and children which might take a lifetime to understand and heal.

Leading for others

who pursue leadership do so from a perspective of personal ambition – seeking influence for the opportunity to grow one’s own position and power – rather than by pointing to something, or someone greater.

Writing from an Australian and Christian (in fact Uniting Church) perspective, Mayhew states his case in even the opening sentences: the anonymous leader is one who points to Christ, who fades into the background so that what is seen and experienced is something akin to the kingdom of God. Digging into the lives of biblical characters such as John the Baptist, and Peter and Joseph, Mayhew illustrates his view that leadership is founded on wisdom, integrity, humility, security and resilience. The truly anonymous leader moves towards these characteristics by pursuing a life of discipleship.

There is a lot to dig into in The Anonymous Leader. At times the ideas and metaphors tumble forth so densely packed that it’s necessary to stop and wait, listening carefully for the message embedded within or even to re-read a passage again and again. Mayhew’s

writing is regularly, visibly punctuated with the thoughts he wants to emphasise, again inviting the reader to pause.

The challenge to the reader is to come to this book with palms open and an attitude of prayer and humility. It’s a book worth reading with an open notebook and pencil alongside.

Who am I when the going gets tough?

If I express leadership in my work, my church or my community, to whom do I point? Whose vision do I embrace?

What do I truly desire for those with whom I work? What’s my own unspoken motivation?

These are the questions The Anonymous Leader raises. It’s not always an easy read but, if you’re willing to actively engage, it might just push you to critical selfreflection rather than a head-nodding easy agreement.

And in the genre of leadership writing, that’s not necessarily common.

REVIEW BY ALAN RAY BOOK | BYSTANDERS | VALERIE VOLK

War wounds REVIEW BY PENNY MULVEY BOOK | MORAL INJURY – UNSEEN WOUNDS IN AN AGE OF BARBARISM | EDITED BY TOM FRAME

WHAT happens to those who, due to particular circumstances, are faced with having to make unacceptable decisions; choices which in normal life are not just

REVIEW BY SCOTT GUYATT BOOK | THE ANONYMOUS LEADER: AN UNAMBITIOUS PURSUIT OF INFLUENCE | RALPH MAYHEW

LEADERSHIP, it seems, is the new buzzword. Whether in politics, sport, culture or the church, one need not scratch very deep to find a view that leadership is either the cause or the solution to whatever challenges face a particular organisation.

There are many writers on the topic, and many theories about how leadership works, what it looks like, and how to become the quintessential great leader.

Into this minefield Ralph Mayhew gently steps (as befits the title of the book) with his offering: The Anonymous Leader.

Essentially, Mayhew argues that many

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Wakefield Press (2015). RRP: $24.99

UNSW Press (2015). RRP: $39.99

Michael Hanrahan Publishing (2015).

RRP: $24.99 This review originally appeared in Journey, the publication of the QLD synod.

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Easter reflection Easter Hope when all seems lost REV DR STEPHEN ROBINSON is the National Disaster Recovery Officer of the Uniting Church in Australia. He is currently in Fiji assisting the Methodist Church in Fiji to train ministers and others in the most heavily hit areas following Tropical Cyclone Winston. He reflects on the relevance of the Easter message in modern times.

As a Uniting Church minister in a parish, Easter was always the season that affected and absorbed me like no other. The danger with hearing any story more than once (let alone many times) is that we can become complacent to its power, so each year I would try to read the gospels’ accounts of the passion and resurrection of Christ as if for the first time.

The scriptural accounts of the foretelling, betrayal, denial, trial, passion and resurrection of Jesus connect with a great swathe of emotions and human experience.

These accounts resonate with so much of our life. Read anew we can empathise with the disciples’ experience of concern, fear, disappointment, guilt, anger, sadness, grief and hopelessness – even before we join them in their confusion, wonder and joy at the news of the resurrection.

Easter is more than just a good story. It is the point at which God, in Christ, enters every part of our experience, even our despair (“My God, why have you forsaken me?”) and our death.

It’s been more than two years since I conducted Easter worship in a parish setting. For the past two-and-a-half years I have been ministering full-time in the area of disaster recovery as the National Disaster Recovery Officer with the Uniting Church Assembly. This followed 15 years of ministering part time in emergency and disaster recovery chaplaincy. In my current role I have worked all over Australia, and increasingly in the Pacific, amongst people who have experienced loss through disaster, by fire, flood, windstorm, cyclone, accident and terrorism.

As I read the gospel accounts of Easter now, it is increasingly through the eyes of someone who shares time with people beyond the gathered congregation during ‘Easter moments’ of their lives. These are times where loss is deeply real, death is near or seemingly overwhelming and the world as they have known it is shaken, if not destroyed. This has, if anything, enhanced my understanding of the reality

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of loss, the value of hope, and the power of the resurrection.

The Road to Emmaus My favourite Easter story of the gospels is that of Jesus with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, told in Luke chapter 24 (verses 13 to 34). It reminds me that the initial reaction to the good news of Jesus’ resurrection was not joy, but fear and confusion. The disciples were not in a place to readily accept the hope of the resurrection; they first had to comprehend, if not understand, the costly death of their beloved teacher and friend.

Cleopas and his companion are walking home after a disastrous weekend. Their worldview has been shattered by the devastating events of Good Friday. The one on whom they had placed all their hopes (vs 21) has been tortured to death.

As they walk, they are talking through every detail of their experience. What they saw, what they heard, in what order it took place, how they felt. They are doing what most of us do when we suffer a lifeshattering shock – trying to talk it out and make sense of it all.

It’s at this point that Jesus comes beside them, yet they “were kept from recognising him”. (v. 16)

Being there The essence of chaplaincy is often described as a “ministry of presence”. The very best chaplains I have seen are those who are able to simply come beside people as they move from a place of devastation and loss.

The first and most important gift of this ministry is that, like Jesus himself, we meet people where they are hurting. On the street, as they leave something awful, or as they gather with loved ones to make sense of it all.

Listening On the road to Emmaus Jesus understands that, although he had just died and lived the Easter event, the disciples needed to have understanding from their point of view. Rather than jumping in with incomprehensible news, he asks them what is going on. “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” (vs 17).

He sees the need for them to catch up.

We don’t leap into resurrection without processing the reality of death. And with this asking comes wonderful regard. I love that, time and time again, Jesus asks the

people he cares for what they think, and what they want. Even with his supernatural knowledge of their circumstances, Jesus asked the question and respected and dignified their response by listening as they named the thing they felt they most needed.

Along with the ministry of presence, comes the ministry of silence. Being absolutely attentive to the ‘story’ of the person at a point of need. Even if we judge their story is not entirely accurate or fair – it is their story and listening brings with it a regard for a person’s loss and circumstances. For us, who come from a protestant tradition with a high regard for the word (and a tendency to want to bring answers!) this is not easy. The value of first listening to the one feeling the loss is incalculable.

Picking up the pieces Major Don Woodland is a well-respected (now retired) Salvation Army chaplain, and no stranger to disaster. He uses the metaphor of a jigsaw puzzle to describe a person’s life. As we grow, pieces are added over time to build up a picture of reality, memory and meaning. When a traumatic event happens – that jigsaw picture is shattered, the pieces are scattered, disordered and some lost. The role of the chaplain in these circumstances is to come alongside and to help pick up the pieces.

The person’s life will not look the same again – as some pieces may never be found and there will be gaps (such as having lost a loved one) others may take some time to find and replace; but, as life goes on, the picture will be added to – building again from the edges.

This is what Jesus is doing as they walk and talk together. He is giving them time, speaking into their lives with fresh vision, and helping them to reframe the context of this weekend as, piece by piece, he helps bring the bigger picture together to give it new meaning.

Breaking bread Joining them on the way, listening to their concerns, and helping them pick up the pieces of their shattered lives, Jesus arrives (still unrecognised) at his followers’ home in Emmaus. Not forcing himself upon their hospitality, Jesus graciously accepts their invitation to stay and joins them for a meal. He is given the honour of offering the blessing for the meal and, as he breaks bread with them, something powerful happens. Perhaps it was the memory of words spoken and bread broken at a

previous table, but maybe something more.

There is something wonderful about breaking bread with people at a time of crisis. Our chaplains make a point of being at the tables in evacuation centres at breakfast, lunch and dinner times. The act of sharing a meal transcends a professional/ client relationship to something that is more akin to family or friends. After floods, chaplains go out on the streets, joining people experiencing the grief of returning to their water-ruined, mud-filled homes. Later, in the evacuation centre they eat with these people as they share their loss and began to make decisions regarding the long and difficult journey to recovery.

The Easter Event As a Christian and a chaplain, I am absolutely reliant on Easter – for only in what Jesus did can I find God joining me completely, and overcoming all that can come against me. Christ’s actions in Easter give us blessing, forgiveness, healing, assurance, salvation, and eternal life.

In disaster recovery chaplaincy we share life with people who will say they have “lost everything”. Life as they know it has been shattered, and all they have depended on appears to be gone – houses, possessions, even loved ones. The present is unimaginable; can there possibly be hope in the future? Our very presence and ministry brings a quiet assurance that there is more than this. This is not the end.

One of the great mysteries of the Emmaus account is the nature of the risen Christ.

His resurrection body is physical enough to walk, talk and eat; yet he can disappear from sight and reappear through locked doors kilometres away. He is alongside in life, yet now beyond death and our earthly limitations. He offers comfort in his physical connection, hope in his transcendence.

The role of chaplaincy offers both these things – connection and hope. We lend our ears and our hands to support a real and present need, but we also bring something beyond this (now here’s a mystery!). To walk onto a fire-ground and hear the words “Thank God, the chaplain’s here”, is a reminder that, through and beyond us, the risen Christ continues to walk alongside suffering people. Even as we are sustained by the sure and certain hope of the risen Christ, we allow other people to lean upon us, and bring God’s assurance that this is not the end. A new day will come.

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Reflection Ferment, Change and the Church’s Vocation THE ferment within Christianity during the twentieth century and which continues into the present century is incalculable. The transitions which have occurred in geographical spread, cultural diversity, theological approaches, and doctrinal controversies have been simply phenomenal. The numerical growth of the church in Asia, Africa and South America alongside its numerical decline in Europe and Australasia is merely the tip of an iceberg of epochal proportions.

The more local transitions we have experienced in the UCA have been part of those much larger global movements. These transitions have been unsettling, puzzling and disorienting for those who have lived through them. Any attempt to understand our local experiences independently of the larger global transitions will lead only to misunderstanding. In reality, the roots of the cultural forces which have seen Australia’s mainline churches lose numbers, status and influence are deeper than is often realised.

For the duration of the UCA’s life, Christianity in Australia has been shaped by social and cultural forces over which the Church has had precious little control. It is sometimes suggested that things could have been different: ‘if only the church did… x, y or z.’ But this kind of ‘if only’ lament

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is, I think, misguided. Behind it is often a kind of ‘catch-up’ ecclesiology: ‘if only we catch up with the changes in society, we’ll be more effective in mission’ – or so the argument goes. But this underestimates the extent to which the power of even the most innovative, energetic, faithful and authentic missional strategy is often overwhelmed by the currents of change that have taken Australian society in directions few would have predicted even two decades ago, let alone the nearly four decades ago when the Uniting Church was born.

It is not just that we’ve become a more overtly multi-cultural and multi-faith nation, we’ve arguably become more captive to the ideologies of neoliberal economics, more influenced by a jingoistic nationalism, remained persistently ambivalent towards reconciliation between Australia’s First and Second Peoples, and become less hospitable to our global neighbours seeking refuge. All of these are in tension with the gospel proclaimed by the church.

Nor is it just that the cultural place and influence of the Churches have changed. It is also that social attitudes to Christianity have diversified. If Christianity is characterised by enormous internal diversity, the attitudes towards Christianity from beyond the church are perhaps even more diverse. Alongside conventional unbelief or indifference, there is a kaleidoscopic mixture of ignorance, goodwill, hostility, curiosity, tolerance, incredulity, nostalgia, welcome and suspicion. In short: there is no single contemporary cultural posture towards Christianity. Accordingly, neither can there be any single posture of the church towards the contemporary culture.

Such diversity points to the fact that there are vast tracts of Australian society that are

not sitting around waiting for the church to catch up. They have simply moved on from the church, the story of Jesus, and the patterns of life to which he calls. They have happily and consciously chosen worldviews and values that are alternatives to Christianity. A ‘changed’ Christianity or ‘new ways of being church’ may engage the curious and the fellow-travellers. But there is no reason to think that the indifferent, the suspicious and the incredulous won’t remain as indifferent, suspicious and incredulous as they already are. These postures to Christianity are deeply ingrained in segments of our society. To argue this is not to indulge in a defeatist or nay-saying pessimism. It is, instead, to be ruthlessly realistic.

The temptation in such circumstances is to turn inwards. Obviously, some ways of turning inwards are destructive and myopic. But our circumstances also invite a positive kind of turning inwards – or, better, turning to the centre, to the central claims, promises and demands of the gospel. This is perhaps the great opportunity of embracing our postChristendom context. Rather than take our bearings from social expectation or acceptance, we can learn again to take our bearings from the gospel of Jesus Christ and the New Testament witness to his way of grace, forgiveness, friendship, mercy, humility, sacrifice and hope.

Many will likely dismiss this as a platitude.

It is entirely the opposite. For surely this is the most demanding calling of the church – to be a community of grace, forgiveness, friendship, mercy, humility, sacrifice and hope. All of us know that the creation of such communities is hard work. It is also a reminder that now stripped of its historically-accidental accumulation of cultural prestige and status, all the church

has to offer the world is an odd message of the life, death and resurrection of an unusual young Jewish man who lived a life of strange obedience to the one he called ‘Abba’. Some of our neighbours will accept it, some will reject it. The church’s vocation is to live it.

Geoff Thompson, Co-ordinator of Studies: Systematic Theology, Pilgrim Theological College. Geoff is author of Jesus Christ According to the Basis of Union (Mediacom, 2013) and blogs at www.xenizonta.blogspot.com.au

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

Letters God’s gift to women I HAVE just read the new Crosslight. While I appreciate the article on women in leadership it could have gone much further. Paul in Galations 3:26-28 clearly explains that God sees no difference in the giftings on men or women’s lives. God puts His giftings where He chooses. The scripture that was quoted 1 Corinthians 14: 34-35 the word we have in our English translation ‘speak’, in the original Greek implies ‘to shout out, to make a disturbance’. At that time the women sat on one side of the church and the men on the other. Was the woman shouting out to her husband asking a doctrinal question or was she saying to her husband that the baby’s nappy needs changing? We don’t know. We must allow the Gifts of God to function where He has placed them.

Harry West Paynesville, VIC

The future could have looked so different THE one constant in life is that the future, although unknown, holds its intent to the history that came before it.

There is no more striking example of this than the history of the Uniting Church, built on almost 40 years of union.

However it goes back much longer. The forebears who in faith throughout the different parts of Victoria and Tasmania made the call to set up, build and create the churches that dot our cities, towns and country side.

The hard work, the enduring faith, the trials and the tribulations are the foundation of our church today.

These are the building blocks on which all the programs that are a part of The Uniting Church can find their history.

I note with sadness that unfortunately, as we move further into the 21st century, some of our churches have disappeared and sadly more will follow. This is largely due to lifestyle changes and people moving on. I pray as we move towards 40 years of union that we don’t forget those who still worship in our cities. But more importantly, we don’t forget those in our remote towns who are doing it tough, not only in work but also in church numbers. Because all of these congregations and their forbears are the foundation of who we are and the future that is in front of us.

Let’s all hold them up and pray for them as they seek God’s call, not only as their forbears did but as they are now doing and will be doing in the future regarding their church.

Mark Porter Chelsea Uniting Church

When women were supposed to keep quiet THERE was an article in Crosslight last month about women getting the vote in Victoria.

Victorian women were among the first in the world to gain the right to vote – 1908.

This was despite opposition from churches and many men, who thought giving women the right to vote would make them ‘masculine’ and interfere with their home duties.

My grandma, Harriet Gollan, her cousin, Lizzie Fleming, and Lilian Gollan, my mother, were members of the WCTU (Women’s Christian Temperance Union).

They attended regular meetings and the two older ladies signed a mammoth petition to Parliament,

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which was kilometres long and was rolled into The House.

Members of the WCTU saw the harmful effects on home-life of some men’s excessive drinking of alcohol and the ‘pub’ culture.

The badge they wore was a small white enamelled bow brooch. Quite lovely.

What has this got to do with women’s suffrage?

Your article said “Energy for their campaign gave the WCTU a national network through the Methodist, Congregational and Presbyterian churches”.

Their thought was that putting the vote into the hands of the mothers and homemakers would guarantee social stability.

The seeds were planted for more participation in community and national life – radical renewal.

Harriet, Lizzie and Lilian were still attending WCTU meetings in Kew in the 1950s. As a teenager, I guess I sniffed at this old-fashioned group.

Now I realise the great history behind their efforts.

Wendy Hebbard Via email

Creating confusion I WRITE with regard to Dr David Merritt’s review (February) of my new book ‘Made on Earth: how gospel writers created the Christ’. I was surprised, to say the least, to see the heading Crosslight gave the review: ‘Creating Jesus’! Given that the book’s subject is how gospel writers created the Christ! how they turned Jesus into Christ - the headline is not only inaccurate, it is misleading as to the book’s subject and intention. I am grateful that the review was published, but it’s amazing how much can be read into a headline.

Rev Dr Lorraine Parkinson Doncaster, VIC

Mardi Gras march ON Saturday 5 March, Sydney’s Oxford Street was awash with rainbows and glitter and filled with music for the annual Mardi Gras parade. On one float, 70 people marched with Uniting Network – the LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer) members in the Uniting Church and our friends, families, and supporters.

Marchers met in Pitt Street Uniting Church beforehand to pray and hear from Steve Teulan (Uniting Ageing NSW/ACT) and Peter Worland (UnitingCare NSW/ACT CEO). Then, the group made its way to Hyde Park.

On the way, they were drumming (to demonstrate anger) and holding lanterns (as a symbol of light). This is because the theme of the float was more sombre than the typical Mardi Gras celebrations – ‘LGBTIQ Refugees Are Welcome Here’. The float was a protest directed towards the Australian government’s treatment of people fleeing persecution overseas because of their LGBTIQ status. There are currently numerous LGBTIQ people having their claims of asylum in Australia slowly processed; some are detained on Manus Island.

The parade followed a forum held at Pitt Street on 24 February with the theme ‘LGBTIQ Refugees: Australia Can Do More’. Speakers included Gillian Triggs of the Human Rights Commission, Imam Nur Wasame of ‘Marhaba’ for LGBTIQ Muslims, and Che Bishop COO of Asylum Seekers Centre.

The forum was well-attended by church members and community groups, and finished with new avenues for concerned people to take action together.

After a hectic, exciting, and humbling experience preparing for Mardi Gras, Uniting Network now looks forward to the national gathering in Melbourne in June: ‘Daring to Reach Out: Honouring Our Diversity’.

Keith G Gerrard Uniting Network NSW/ACT Co-Convenor You can find out more about Uniting Network at: http://www.unitingnetworkaustralia.org.au/

Jesus vs Muhammad IN the review Jesus vs Muhammad, March Crosslight, Larry Marshall says “There is nothing in Islam that is more violent than Christianity.” That is incorrect as Muhammad led his followers in war.

Jesus’s example was to die for others. Christians, who fought in for instance the Crusades, were disobeying Jesus’ teachings.

They were acting according to their human nature rather than as Christians.

However Muhammad taught that war had its limits such as 9:5: “When the sacred months are over slay the idolaters wherever you find them. Arrest them, besiege them, and lie in ambush everywhere for them. If they repent and take to prayer and render the alms levy, allow them to go their way. God is forgiving and merciful.” Penguin Classics The Koran Translated by N J Dawood pp133/134.

Marshall said: “There was nothing in the Muslim world like anti-Semitism.” The Koran includes statements against Jews and to a less extent against Christians. For instance 9:30 the Jews say Ezra is the son of God, while the Christians say the Messiah is the son of God. Such are their assertions, by which they imitate the infidels of old. God confound them! How perverse they are!

Marguerite Marshall Eltham, VIC

In defense of the ACL I AM sure Lyle Shelton would agree with your headline ‘ACL does not speak for all Christians’ (March Crosslight Page 3), just as you would doubtless agree that neither does Crosslight nor Rev Dr Avril Hannah Jones speak for the whole UCA. As a statement, your headline echoed Mr Shelton’s own made on ABC television’s Q & A on 29 Feb. when, as ACL’s managing director, he was “thrown to the Q & A lions” (The Australian 1/3).

I thought it was a very poor choice of wording for a lead-in to an article primarily dealing with the plebiscite on same-sex marriage planned by the federal government. In the circumstances, I thought Mr Shelton performed admirably and graciously presented views with which I and many other Christians would find little fault. The major portion of Q & A that night was devoted to discussing the Safe Schools Coalition program being introduced in schools around Australia.

While it is claimed to be aimed at the elimination

of all forms of bullying in schools it concentrates almost exclusively on bullying related to sexual preference and gender issues, which constitute a small proportion of total recorded bullying incidents. Further, it goes on to encourage any gender confused boys and girls to dress how they feel, to choose to use whichever traditionally segregated toilets /change rooms they prefer, and to explore homosexual activity if they feel inclined.

The emphasis placed on homosexual bullying in this program tells victims of other more prevalent bullying (e.g. related to body shape, grades, race, dress or speech) that their suffering is not as significant as that which may be endured by possible LGBTI students.

School communities should foster courtesy and respect for all students not just some. If not abandoned completely, I believe the program should be substantially re-written.

Dennis Litchfield Mount Waverley, VIC

Where is Jesus?

I HAVE just finished browsing through the March 2016 edition of Crosslight; stopping here and there to read a few stories.

Unfortunately, I believe there has been a glaring omission.

Where was the feature article or any article for that matter that celebrates the resurrection of the Lord?

Surely as we journey through Lent the Uniting Church should/could/ would want to have an article that focuses our thoughts and attention on the Cross and selfless sacrifice that Jesus made for us all; as well as celebrating the power and victory of the resurrection.

The resurrection of our Lord gives us hope, it gives us victory over death and there is the promise of eternal life for those who accept Jesus as Lord.

The crucifixion and the resurrection of our Lord are pivotal days in the Christian faith but what did Crosslight give us – nothing, zero, zilch! – It could only advertise itself on the front page as the ‘Publication of the Year 2015’.

What is more important, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ or being the ‘publication of the year’? Not to acknowledge the death and resurrection of Jesus is an affront to members of the church.

I must ask the question, is the death and resurrection of our Lord not important to the Uniting Church?

Perhaps this is why people are leaving in their droves!

Wayne Bounday Elder Uniting Church Ulverstone

Keeping Children Safe Project Officer • New important strategic role • Part-time limited tenure New position to scope a critical project for the Uniting Church and lead implementation of Keeping Children Safe Policy.

About you Your expertise in developing and managing projects, the implementation of policy and cultural change will be highly valued in this new role. Knowledge of and commitment to the requirements for child safety will be important. An understanding of the need for church communities and organisations to be safe places and an appreciation of the needs of a faith-based organisation is essential.

The focus of this role: • Scoping and designing the implementation project • Designing an ongoing training framework • Building strong relationships with key personnel across the church to facilitate and monitor the implementation of the Keeping Children Safe Policy The UCA is committed to keeping children safe The UCA is proud to be an inclusive employer Obtain a position description and apply online by 1st April 2016 https://unitingcaresynod.mhr.com.au/searchjobs.asp A willingness to work within the ethos of the Uniting Church in Australia is essential Appointment is subject to a satisfactory police records check

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One of the most exciting thinkers in today’s church is coming to Melbourne Dr Robin Meyers is Senior Minister with the fastest growing United Church of Christ, Kansas-Oklahoma, a Professor at Oklahoma City University, and best-selling author.

Hosted by Common Dreams on the Road, and the Progressive Christian Network of Victoria

Friday 13 May, 7:30pm Malvern East Uniting Centre, 54 Serrell St. Malvern East

‘The Underground Church: Reclaiming the Subversive Way of Jesus’

Saturday 14 May, 11:00am – 4:00pm

‘From Galilean Sage to Supernatural Saviour: The Heresy of Orthodoxy’ ‘Spiritual Defiance: Building a Beloved Community of Resistance’ ‘Quantum Physics & the Future of God: How Science is Redefining the Almighty’ Cost (including lunch on Saturday and tea/coffee breaks) Friday evening only: $12; ($10 PCNV Members) Friday & Saturday Sessions: Earlybird (by 29 April 2016) $55; Regular $65 (Members: Earlybird $50; Regular $60) Registrations essential: To register online go to www.pcnvictoria.org.au For enquiries or a registration form call 03 9571 4575 or email info@pcnvictoria.org.au

TO ALL CHRISTIAN PEOPLE INTERESTED IN PRAYING AND WORKING FOR PEACE IN THE WORLD YOU ARE INVITED TO AN ALTERNATIVE ANZAC COMMEMORATION ANZAC DAY 25 APRIL 2016, 11AM, ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL MELBOURNE Truly, We Will Remember Them

ST PAUL’s Cathedral together with Pax Christi and the Anzac Centenary Peace Coalition, invite you to a service of lament for all soldiers who suffered and died in World War I, especially in the Battle of the Somme in 1916, for the doctors and nurses who cared for the wounded and dying, for loved ones at home during and after the campaign, for the government attempt to conscript men into the war that was said to be THE WAR THAT ENDS ALL WAR. Rev Canon Dr Stephen Ames, St Paul’s Cathedral, Australia

Rev Harry Kerr, Pax Christi

Enquiries revdrjohnsmith@ozemail.com.au

•

Board Members- UnitingCare Victoria and Tasmania Agency of the Uniting Church Victoria and Tasmania

UnitingCare Vic/Tas currently provides community services through 26 separate agencies, each with their own board of governance.

Governance of these agencies is to be transferred to a new, single-skills based Agency Board which reports directly to the Synod Standing Committee.

UnitingCare Vic/Tas has a combined long and proud history of community service delivery as an expression of Christian care and compassion and of God’s mission in the world, originating in the Uniting Church and its predecessor denominations.

The current agencies have an annual turnover of $237 million, over 3500 employees and over 4000 volunteers.

Please view https://www.victas.uca.org.au/communityservices/Pages/UC-Update.aspx for additional background information.

Expressions of interest are now being sought for the inaugural Agency Board of UnitingCare Vic/Tas, which presents a unique opportunity to strategically guide the organisation.

We require Board Members with previous Board experience and operational experience in one or more of the following areas: and sector knowledge.

Your excellent communication and diplomacy skills, coupled with sound management experience, will enable you to build strong relationships across the organisation in dealing with all stakeholders.

Board Members must be committed to the Church’s values and ethos and the provision of first class community services.

For further discussions please contact Malcolm Duncan of The Insight Group on (02) 9233 3711.

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CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

Placements CURRENT AND PENDING PLACEMENT VACANCIES AS AT 17 MARCH 2016 PRESBYTERY OF GIPPSLAND Cowes** Cowes (St Johns) Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang-Corinella Mitchell River – Paynesville (0.6) Orbost Presbytery of Gippsland Growth Corridor Minister (0.5)(P) Presbytery Minister – Mission and Education (P) PRESBYTERY OF LODDON MALLEE Dunolly (0.5) (P) Dunolly (0.5) (P) Eastern Mallee Rural (Lake Boga, Manangatang, Meatian, Nyah West) \(0.5)-Kerang (0.5) (P) Maryborough, Avoca, Bealiba, Moonambel** Mobile Ministry (P) North Central Living Waters (Birchip, Donald, St Arnaud, Wycheproof) (P) Presbytery Minister – Administration Sunraysia (0.5) and Robinvale (0.5) (P) PRESBYTERY OF NORTH EAST VICTORIA Mansfield (0.3) Rutherglen (Rutherglen/Chiltern-Corowa-Howlong) (0.5) Wodonga (St Stephens) PRESBYTERY OF PORT PHILLIP EAST Beaumaris (0.6)** Berwick Brighton (Trinity) Cornish College Ministry (0.5) Endeavour Hills (0.5) (P) Frankston (High St) Koornang (E) Narre Warren North (0.7) (P) Noble Park (St Columba’s) (0.5) Presbytery Minister – Mission and Education St Kilda Parish (Chapel St)** PRESBYTERY OF PORT PHILLIP WEST Bellarine Linked (Drysdale, Portarlington, St Leonards) Geelong (St Andrews) – St Albans Park** Glenroy, Pascoe Vale, Pascoe Vale South (0.5)** Hoppers Crossing Macedon Ranges Partnership – Pastoral Care (P) PRESBYTERY OF TASMANIA PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN VIC Wendouree (0.5)** PRESBYTERY OF YARRA YARRA Church of All Nations** Croydon North (with Harrison) (0.5)** Diamond Valley (0.8) (P) EACH Mental Health Ministries** Eltham – Montmorency (0.5)** Kew East** Melbourne (St Michaels) Presbytery Minister – Administration (P) Ringwood North Tecoma (0.6) ** Uniting AgeWell Condare Court, Girrawheen and Tanderra (0.6)** SYNOD Ethical Standards Officer** Hopkins Region Prisons and MRC Chaplain (0.6) (P) New Agency – Director of Mission**

MINISTRY MOVES CALLS AND APPOINTMENTS FINALISED Norm Roberts (OD) called to Uniting AgeWell Strath-Haven commenced on 29 February 2016.

CONCLUSION OF PLACEMENT Nil

INTER SYNOD TRANSFER Nil

RETIREMENTS Phillip Hughes to retire 21 July 2016.

Notices and Advertisements WINCHELSEA UNITING CHURCH ANNUAL AUCTION Saturday, 2 April Hesse Street Reserve, Winchelsea.

Items for sale on commission may be delivered on Friday 1st April from 9am. This is the major annual fundraiser for the church in Winchelsea.

Contact P: 0417 059 683 or 0409 418 766 CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS, EXETER UNITING CHURCH, TASMANIA 2 – 3 April 2016 Exeter Uniting Church, Main Street Celebrations will begin with a barbecue lunch and children’s activities at the Main St church buildings from midday on Saturday 2 April. A worship service will begin at 11am the following day, followed by a shared lunch and community singing from 2.30 pm. If you have any photographs or memorabilia, please bring them along.

For more information contact Jenny Flanagan on Email. jennyflan22@gmail.com FINAL SERVICE AND CONCERT, ST ANDREW’S GARDINER UNITING CHURCH Sunday, 10 April, 2.30pm St Andrew’s Gardiner Uniting Church A free Saturday afternoon concert of baroque style music will be held at St Andrew’s Gardiner Uniting Church, corner of Burke and Malvern Roads, Glen Iris at 2.00pm on Saturday 9 April. The concert will be followed by afternoon tea. The final service to celebrate the life of the congregation of this Church which has faithfully served the community at Gardiner since 1911 will be held on Sunday 10 April at 2.30pm. All past members and clergy are warmly invited to attend. The service will be followed by refreshments.

Please RSVP to E: hcameron@comcen.com.au or P: 0407 330 442.

CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY MEDITATION Thursdays 14 April - 12 May, 7.30 – 9.30pm Chalice Community of Faith, Northcote Uniting Church, 251 High Street, Northcote, 3070 Contemplative practices invite us to a deeper relationship with ourselves and God. Topics include: sitting meditation, labyrinth walking, art making, and movement meditation. No experience necessary.

Open to people of faith, no faith or seeking a contemplative lifestyle.

Cost: Full fee $180 / Concession $90 / Earlybird $150 before 4 April.

Booking essential at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ contemplative-workshop-series-tickets-22755165312 ‘POP UP PARENTING’ SEMINARS Trinity Uniting Church, 17 Black St Brighton 19 April Judy Crigan, ‘Positive Development Across the Lifespan’ $10/seminar. Bookings: www.trybooking.com-search ‘Trinity’.

Enquiries P: 0419 872 532 PARENT COURSE ‘FAMILIES COPING’ Author A/Prof. Dr. Erica Frydenberg, Presenter Dr. Michell Andrews Educational and Developmental Psychologist Trinity House, 15 Black Street, Brighton 10 sessions commencing Thursday, 21 April 2016 at 7.30pm and following Tuesdays For parents of pre-schoolers and early school years.

Positive psychology of parenting, coping with stress, everyday worries children, and more.

Cost for 10 week course is $165/person or $275/couple.

Includes materials, supper, GST. Group size: 20.

For bookings: Try.Booking.com-Search “Trinity” or enquiries P: 0419 872 532 HUGE SECONDHAND BOOK SALE Grovedale Uniting Church, cnr Reserve and Torquay Roads, Grovedale Friday, 22 April, 2pm – 8pm Saturday, 23 April, 9am – 4pm Fundraising for Uniting Care & Grovedale Uniting Church LANGUAGE OF LOVE FESTIVAL Bentleigh Uniting Church, 495 Centre Road, Bentleigh Saturday, 30 April, 9am to 4pm Includes displays of wedding gowns and marriage memorabilia, painting demonstrations, art displays, photographic competition display, pony petting and grooming, music, Harvest Festival table, calisthenics, Brass band, country and line dancing, Tai Chi, story time, Devonshire tea, and snag bbq. Entry is free and some activities will ask for a donation.

OPEN DAY, LONG GULLY UNITING CHURCH Long Gully Uniting Church, Wilson Street, Long Gully, Bendigo Saturday, 14 May 2016, 1pm – 4pm Heritage building with Cornish links. Architecture William Vahland, 1865-1875.

Listen to the Alfred Fuller organ built 1892, still in original condition, described as best example of 19th Century instrument in Bendigo. Admission $10.00 per head, includes Afternoon tea.

Contact Mary P: 03 5442 1765 MORNING TEA WITH THE HON. FIONA RICHARDSON M.P., MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND PREVENTION OF FAMILY VIOLENCE Keilor East Airport West Uniting Church, Roberts Road, Airport West 10.30am, Tuesday, 17 May A report on the findings of the Royal Commission into Family Violence will be presented.

RSVP. Barbara P: 03 9338 3074 or Maxine P: 03 9374 3124 AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA at THE HUB Glen Waverley Uniting Church, corner Bogong Avenue and Kingsway Thursday, 26 May, 10am - 12noon Bring your family and friends. All donations to Cancer Council Victoria.

Info and group bookings P: 03 9560 3580

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

150TH ANNIVERSARY, ST PAUL’S UNITING CHURCH Inglis Street Ballan Sunday, 29 May, 10am Moderator Dan Wootton will be our guest at this service, which will be followed by lunch. Past members and clergy are warmly invited to attend, share memories and reunite with each other. At 2pm in the Mechanics Institute there will be a performance by the Moorabool Light Orchestra featuring soloist Sofia Laursen Habel. Afternoon tea will follow. (Concert & Tea Cost $10.00 per person). RSVP by 13 May 2016.

Contact Elizabeth Zilveris P: 03 5368 2016 or E: zilveris@aapt.net.au A NEW CONVERSATION ABOUT AGEING Study booklet available for congregations.

An updated version of the popular four session study booklet from Uniting AgeWell is now available to download from www.unitingagewell.org or contact Rev John Clarke P:9251 5209 E: JClarke@unitingagewell.org THE HISTORY OF SURREY HILLS UNITING CHURCH is in the final stages of editing and persons interested is purchasing a copy are invited to communicate with the Editor, Graham Beanland on Email. beanlandgh@optusnet.com.au to reserve a copy.

The book will be 125 pages in full colour and cost $30 plus postage. Launch details to follow.

THE HUB IS OPEN Glen Waverley Uniting Church, corner Bogong Avenue and Kingsway Tuesday and Thursday 10am - 2pm, and Wednesday 10am - 12noon The Hub at Glen Waverley Uniting Church is a welcoming and friendly meeting place for people needing company, a cuppa and a biscuit, to relax in a busy day or to practise speaking in English in an informal setting. The Hub is open. People of all ages are welcome.

CLASSIFIEDS MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL: REV J. EDWIN DAVIES. A collection of 60 sermons and addresses. $20 posted. Contact Joe Fraser, P: 03 5263 1148.

WANTED TO BUY OR DONATION: Up to 6 copies of Alexanders Hymns No.3., Marshall, Morgan, Scott (up to Hymn no 439 – red covered book). Contact Bill Kirtley on P: 0419 288 512.

OFFICE SPACE AND SMALL STORAGE AREA required by the Victorian Men’s Shed Association in the Eastern Suburbs. Contact Lindsay Oates on P: 0408 343 531 or Email. vice@vmsa.org.au CELTIC SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY’S WORLD Rev Gwen Masters at Hamilton UCA, April 8 – 10.

Sponsored by Henty Region. Further details – Elaine Edwards P:5572 4627 or m.0411 404 189 or E: elaine1747@gmail.com ROBINVALE UNITING CHURCH want to purchase second hand copies of “TOGETHER IN SONG”.

Contact Val Tucker, Parish Secretary, PO Box 499, Robinvale, Victoria, 3549. E: vptucker@yahoo.co.uk CAPE WOOLAMAI, Summerhays Cottage. Sleeps 3. Tranquil garden. Stroll to beach. Discount for UCA members. Ring Doug or Ina P: 0403 133 710. www.summerhayscottage.com.au CALOUNDRA, Sunshine Coast, Queensland: Beachside units, from $400/wk. For details contact Ray P: 0427 990 161 E: rayandjean@hotmail.com WANTED TO BUY: Antiques, second hand/retro furniture, bric a brac and collectables. Single items or whole house lots. Genuine buyer – contact Kevin P: 0408 969 920.

SENIORS’ SPECIAL: Enjoy a break in luxury surroundings. Three days and three nights, dinner, bed and breakfast for $450 per couple (including GST).

Jindivick Gardens. P:03 5628 5319.

LORNE: Spacious apartment, breathtaking ocean view, open fire, peaceful, secluded, affordable.

P: 03 5289 2698.

GOLDFIELDS HOLIDAY RENTAL: Fully equipped, modern, architecturally designed house. Situated in the Forest Resort Creswick, double storey house, four bedrooms, sleeps up to 11 people. Contact Adam on P: 0414 725 887.

PSYCHOLOGIST. Sue Tansey, BA (Hons), Mpsych (Counselling) MAPS. Individual and relationship counselling. Bulk billing for clients who have a referral from their GP and have a low income. St Kilda. P: 0418 537 342. Email: suetansey@yahoo.com GRAMPIANS WORSHIP. When visiting The Grampians, join the Pomonal Community Uniting Church congregation for worship each Sunday at 10.00am.

WANTED: “TOGETHER IN SONG”. Any unwanted Together in Song booklets would be greatly appreciated by the Dookie Uniting Church congregation. Please contact Beth Stewart on P: 5828 5211 or 0408 546 267 if your congregation has any spare copies available.

WANTED TO BUY: Pre-loved “TOGETHER IN SONG” BIG PRINT EDITION. Contact Kath on E: mossk@a1.com.au WANTED TO BUY: “TOGETHER IN SONG” BIG PRINT EDITION for Rosanna Uniting Church.

Contact Keith on P: 03 9457 2595

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Opinion With good intentions JIM WAKELAM THE community of the Uniting Church has been at the forefront of volunteering in Australia and overseas for decades. But it’s probably time to rethink how we respond to this worthy impulse.

When we witness the deprivation and inequality people face in developing countries, many of us are moved to contribute in some way. Volunteers of all ages travel to corners of the globe to start or build something because they believe their efforts are constructive and worthwhile.

But sometimes these volunteers reflect on the path they took and wish they had started their compassionate work a little differently. Their reflections resonate with the new approach many in the Uniting Church now practice in their desire to assist global needs.

Take Tara Winkler. Last year, The Sydney Morning Herald spoke with Ms Winkler (a former NSW Young Australian of the Year) who, in 2007, started an orphanage in Battambang, in the west of Cambodia.

Ms Winkler said she now regrets that decision, and has since completely turned away from centre-based care for children, which she calls a ‘trap’. She said it is “highly unethical to expose vulnerable children to serious risks in order to engage donors and raise funds”.

Among her concerns are that there are reportedly more orphanages than orphans to fill them; 72 per cent of children in Cambodia’s orphanages and children’s centres have at least one parent. According

to Ms Winkler, some orphanages use the children entrusted to their care to appeal for donations. “These orphanages generate donations which are then embezzled by corrupt orphanage staff,” she said.

She also expressed concern that the practice of visiting orphanages can potentially be a ‘grooming’ ploy for sexual predators.

“Even though the majority of people who want to visit centres are good people … if they are allowed in to provide love and affection, then the same access is provided to potential predators and sex tourists,” Ms Winkler said.

Ms Winkler said people who want to help should support organisations working to keep families together and reintegrate children out of orphanages back to their families.

And meet Hanna Guy. At 19, Hanna volunteered as a teacher at a remote school in Cambodia. A decade later she runs DORSU, an internationally successful social enterprise with that same community.

A small, almost frail woman with a magnetic personality who speaks fluent Kmai, she is now busy crafting an international business in equal and respectful partnership with a community of Cambodian women.

Sit with her for even a short time, and you will see the courage, commitment and intellectual rigor she has brought to her work in Cambodia.

But she will tell you that she made plenty of mistakes as an inexperienced volunteer, and that the real costs of short term volunteers to fledgling organisations and NGOs can be destructive.

She has seen agency staff run themselves ragged offering their customary hospitality to visitors at the expense of doing their primary work.

She has seen capable and intelligent staff humiliated, demotivated and disempowered by well-intentioned but poorly informed visitors offering ‘advice’.

She has picked up the pieces too many times after untold broken promises and unfulfilled commitments.

And she is seriously over it – offer to ‘volunteer’ for Hanna for a week or two in Cambodia and you will get a clear “No thank you!”

But offer to support the work of the community of women she is part of by promoting their products, supporting their crowd funding campaigns, or buying their goods and she will welcome you with open arms.

So called ‘cheque book activism’ is often sneered at by those who want to “get involved in a real way”.

But perhaps such thinking is flawed.

Getting a cash donation into the hands of local people who can then choose their own priorities and meet their needs in the way that most suits them seems far more ‘responsible’ to me.

It is the choice between spending $50,000 sending volunteers to build one $5,000 classroom or using that $50,000 to build another 10 classrooms. It is the choice between providing jobs for unemployed locals with the knowledge of their own environs and suppliers, or spending money to send volunteers without the required skill sets or local relationships.

There is a general outcry that ‘voluntourism’ has passed its use by date, as illustrated in this film clip. (http://www.tiny.cc/voluntourism) There is a hunger for real connection and respectful partnerships. This means accepting leadership from local people without assuming we have the knowledge, ability and a God-given right to provide what we feel is best.

If volunteering to be of ‘service’ is a shaky starting place, how do we contribute?

Travel remains the basis of some exciting opportunities to contribute to the world community.

The Uniting Church has been the first to embrace new ways of relating. It has incorporated ground-breaking relationship development with people from non-Anglo cultural backgrounds and other faith traditions into the fabric of the church.

Uniting Journeys has been exploring how volunteering might be expressed in a non-colonial way, and has come up with a simple formula.

“Build understanding, relationships and the connections first. The rest will follow as it should.”

Uniting Journeys provides regular opportunities for people interested in exploring ‘Third Way Volunteering’ in a variety of countries.

More than a dozen Uniting Journeys will travel this year. Most will not aim to build a schoolroom, or paint a church, or set up a business. Instead they will work hard to build a mutually respectful sense of connection and purpose with partner communities in developing countries.

Will you be with them?

Jim Wakelam is a synod project worker and can be contacted on 0403 264 124 or at Jim.wakelam@victas.uca.org.au.

A Uniting Church group on a recent Uniting Journeys trip to Vietnam

22

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

Moderator’s column Also with you AS moderator, I have been attending settlement conferences with survivors of past sexual abuse – particularly those who were wards of the state in the 1950s and ’60s. The experience has challenged me to think deeply about the significant physical, emotional and spiritual impact on those abused.

During the sessions, various lawyers painstakingly articulate the abuse. There is no glossing over – every sordid word and detail is spoken. This includes very distressing accounts of violence and sexual abuse.

My responsibility is to listen and be available to offer an apology on behalf of the Church. I wait patiently for the opportunity. Throughout the whole process the survivor is out of sight, in another room.

As I sit in silence and listen to the lawyers, I find a great sadness invariably rises up in me – pushing through all my defensive layers. Quite suddenly, I become acutely aware of the presence of God – alongside me and the person I cannot see, yet who somehow feels part of me.

When I get back to the office I feel drained – conscious of the decades-long trauma endured by survivors of institutional abuse.

Often, the person is not willing to meet with me, and I can understand this. I can empathise, but I can never really know the experience he or she has been through and continues to endure.

The emotion of the day remains with me as I walk home. Sometimes I become aware of the ‘void’ in being unable to apologise personally on behalf of the church. I try to draw comfort from the words of Simone Weil (who suffered a great deal). She said, “It is grace that forms the void inside of us and it is grace alone that can fill the void.”

Grace can indeed lead to a state of emptiness, to that momentary sense of helplessness and, in turn, it can lead us out of it.

Easter is just such a time in the Christian calendar.

On Easter morning, women came to look for the body of Jesus and all they found was emptiness and void. This is often the very space we try to escape from – but when we avoid darkness, we are probably avoiding God who is working in the darkness.

Easter brings the possibility of change – in me as an individual and in all of humanity.

But this possibility depends on our own understanding of the cross.

Rowan Williams has written that we need to begin by seeing the cross as the cross of our victim. When we see the cross in this way, we can begin to recognise that pain and violence is something that we ourselves are capable of causing. And when we manage to concede this, we can’t makebelieve that violence is something we can do nothing about.

Let me put it another way. Many of us would be familiar with the response, “And also with you” when we share ‘the peace’.

Well, when I enter the ‘void of darkness’ in contemplating all this violence, I sometimes imagine that God could well be

saying to me, “and also with you.”

In other words, when I condemn, exclude or oppress anyone, I am setting myself up as a judge. This applies even to those being seen to be providing an inadequate response to the Royal Commission, notwithstanding the consequent and undeniable distress this is causing survivors.

May this Easter be a time when a great many of us manage to see in this light, and realise that our involvement with violence is most damaging when we are least aware of our ‘self ’. For if we can manage to maintain this awareness, I believe that ignorance will eventually vanish as a reason to accept great wrongs.

If you have experienced child sexual abuse or know someone who has, you can contact a confidential Uniting Church phone line: 1300 789 374 Contact details for the Royal Commission into Institutional responses to Child Sexual Abuse Within Australia call 1800 099 340 From overseas call 61 2 8815 2319 Open Monday to Friday between the hours of 8am and 8pm AEDT. TTY call 133 677 Speak and Listen call 1300 555 727 Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) Call 131 450 for assistance

Email: contact@ childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au Mail: GPO Box 5283 Sydney NSW 2001

Dan Wootton Moderator

Giving is living Uniting Journeys North India tour

Young women in northern India playing bulldog

CROSSLIGHT - APRIL 16

THE Uniting Journeys program will visit North India next month for a 14-day tour.

This is the third trip to India and continues to strengthen the synod’s relationship with its partner church in North India.

One of the greatest challenges facing India today is social inequality. Some of the country’s most marginalised groups – such as Dalits, people living with HIV and women from disadvantaged communities – continue to suffer from inadequate access to health services.

The Church of North India actively works to overcome this inequality. Its members seek to break down caste and gender barriers through a range of programs, including health clinics that support women and children from Dalit communities.

Dalits face extreme discrimination, oppression and isolation. They fall outside the hierarchical caste system and are among the poorest communities in India.

The stigma associated with being a Dalit often prohibits them from full participation in Indian society.

From 7 to 21 April, Uniting Journeys will visit North India for a responsible travel tour. This will incorporate several days visiting the Punjabi Health Clinics project.

Several Uniting Church congregations in Victoria have provided financial support to the health clinics, including High Street Uniting Church in Frankston and St Kilda Parish Mission.

The project launched in 2014 and provides mobile health services to Dalit families. This includes contraception and family planning advice, health and hygiene education, counselling, and ante and post-natal care. The services reach approximately 11,000 women and 7,000 children in 30 villages.

India is characterised by a diversity of religious beliefs. It is the birthplace of four of the world’s major religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. The majority of Indians are Hindus, but the country is also home to approximately 138 million Muslims and 24 million Christians.

Uniting Journeys’ participants will have the opportunity to witness worship in a foreign country. They will visit the spectacular Golden Temple in Amritsar, the holiest Gurdwara (place of worship) for Sikhs, and the magnificent Baha’i Lotus Temple in the heart of Delhi. Participants will also undertake the Kora walk around the temple and residence of the Dalai Lama.

Contact Uniting Journeys at info@unitingjourneys.com.au for more information.

23

Synod Snaps

“The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.”

- Dorothea Lange

The working bee at St Luke’s Uniting Church in Morwell

Queenscliff Uniting Church’s community development co-ordinator Jan Hodge at Messy Church. The theme ‘In Our Hands’ was chosen to coincide with World Wildlife Day.

World Day of Prayer service at Swan Hill Uniting Church

Eaglehawk Uniting Church members prepare their float for the Dahlia and Arts Festival Gala Parade

The Beulah Uniting Church Adult Fellowship group celebrates Pancake Day

Moderator-elect Rev Sharon Hollis speaks at the World Day of Prayer service at High Street Road Uniting Church, Mt Waverley