Issue 28, No 3 April 2009 www.sa.uca.org.au/newtimes
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inside…
Uniting College launched 3 • New face at UCAE 4 • Exploring beliefs 5 – 6 Maughan’s new signage 7 • New venue for KCO 9 • Denise to candidate 10
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News
New Times
12th Assembly update Sydney, the Emerald City, loves playing host to events of all kinds, from the 2000 Olympics to the annual Festival of Sydney. In this, the 12th Assembly year of the Uniting Church in Australia, the Assembly has designed a visitors’ program that will showcase the many faces and moods of Sydney, while taking visitors on a spiritual tour of the city. In addition to these events there will be space for conversations and experiences. There will be the opportunity to meet with special visitors from overseas churches, question and answer times with the President and General Secretary, plus various other people in key roles in the life of the church. Many people visit the Assembly to experience the unique atmosphere and so there is also the chance to sit in and listen to the discussions, reports and
various special aspects of the meeting. Between July 15 and 21 visitors will have an opportunity to visit the legendary Wayside Chapel in Kings Cross, friend to some of Sydney’s most disadvantaged people; explore the multiculturalism of the Uniting Church via a Cabramatta day tour; and visit the Chapel-bythe-Sea at iconic Bondi Beach; plus more. The program will also give visitors tips on independent sight-seeing to destinations such as Taronga Zoo and the Blue Mountains. The program and other information is available on the 12th Assembly website: http:// www.assembly2009.uca.org.au/.
Carbon Reduction Scheme must be fixed not dumped The Uniting Church in Australia believes that although no-one much likes the Government’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS), we need to work together to fix it. UnitingJustice Australia director, Rev Elenie Poulos, says that critics of the scheme need to put down their weapons and start making a positive contribution for the sake of our future. “There is presently no viable and developed alternative to the proposed CPRS and if we miss this chance it will be a long time before we get another,” Elenie says. “We must put a price on carbon and we must do it soon. “If we believe the coal industry, the CPRS will have us all using candles and riding horses; this is nonsense. “If we believe other critics, it is so flawed and toothless that we’d be better off with nothing. This is dangerous. “Putting a price on carbon is morally and economically the right thing to do. What’s on offer is far from perfect but it is a start and better than nothing.” “It is generally well accepted that the longer we go without pricing carbon the more expensive it will become for us; this is not a legacy we should leave to our children. “The scheme does have serious flaws. The Government is giving far too much support
UnitingJustice director Elenie Poulos wants to see the Government’s controversial Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme improved, rather than dropped altogether. to the coal industry and far too little support to the research, development and commercialisation of clean, renewable and low-emission technologies. We can and must fix it. “If we don’t, Australia will be squandering the chance to be a major player in the emerging ‘green’ global economy. “Implementing a good emissions trading scheme will signal Australia’s seriousness
and willingness to be part of the global climate change solution, which we have refused to do for many years.” The church shares concerns that the current emission reduction targets for Australia for 2020 are too low. “The Uniting Church regards climate change as a most serious threat to our future. We need to set strong targets that demonstrate our commitment to a sustainable future.
Religious leaders pressure PM on climate change ISSN 0726-2612 Editor: Jill Freear, Ph 8236 4230, email newtimes@sa.uca.org.au Advertising: Russell Baker, Ph 8361 6822, email ribad@bigpond.com Circulation: Sarah Urmston, Ph 8236 4260, email surmston@sa.uca.org.au Production: Joie Creative Printer: Cadillac Printing Circulation: 12,000
Distribution: On the first Sunday of the month Editorial deadline for May 2009: April 4 Advertising deadline for May 2009: April 9 New Times is published 11 times a year by the Uniting Church SA Communications Unit. Articles and advertising content do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or of the Uniting Church. New Times articles and policies are published on the Uniting Church SA website www.sa.uca.org.au. Office: Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide. GPO Box 2145 Adelaide, SA 5001.
APRIL 2009
Uniting Church President Rev Gregor Henderson was one of more than 60 religious leaders to write to the Prime Minister about climate change prior to the release of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme draft legislation. The religious leaders expressed their deep concerns about what they say is the Government’s inadequate response. The letter urges the Government to address greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and to help shape a strong international agreement on climate change at Copenhagen. It says the five to 15 percent emission reduction target range by the year 2020 represents a failure to protect lives and livelihoods and claims emissions must fall by at least 25 percent in industrialised countries if the world is to avoid catastrophic climate change. “It is not only ‘environmental’ groups who are concerned about the Government’s inadequate response”, says Dr Miriam Pepper, secretary of multi-faith network, the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC), which facilitated the letter. “Australia’s religious groups are educating our communities about climate change and are taking actions to reduce our own
carbon footprints and we call for stronger action from the Government.” The signatories to the letter are from a wide range of Christian denominations and also from Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Part of the letter reads: Australians are starting to experience the devastating effects of climate change, through fire, drought and flood. Our partner organisations in regions such as the Pacific, South East Asia and Africa also tell us of the suffering of their communities due to extreme weather events and sea level rise, communities who bear so little of the responsibility for climate change, and yet are disproportionately impacted. We mourn and pray, for and with, all people across the world that are affected. The disappearance of species under increasing pressure from climate change is also a profound loss, as well as a threat to the biodiversity upon which all in this planet depend. A world that protects the most vulnerable, and values sufficiency rather than overconsumption, is a world where all can flourish. We call upon your Government to act with courage, compassion and hope.
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New Times
‘SafeTracks’ for Aborigines Jonathan Nicholls, Indigenous policy and advocacy manager, UCWA The Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in north-west South Australia may have the highest concentration of Uniting Church members of any region in Australia. In the 2006 Census more than 60 percent of the people living on the APY Lands gave their religion as “Christian,” with 77 percent of those reporting an affiliation with the Uniting Church. The history of the church’s presence on the APY Lands begins with the establishment of a Presbyterian mission at Ernabella in 1937, runs on through the struggle for land rights in the 1970s and 80s, and continues today through the work and worship of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress. In recent years, a growing number of people from the APY Lands have relocated to Adelaide permanently or visited the city for extended periods of time. This trend has led to the creation of new ministries and services. It has also generated some challenges, particularly around accommodation. Oftentimes people visiting Adelaide from remote communities either sleep rough in parklands or stay with relatives in what are already overcrowded houses. This is not only a difficulty in Adelaide but also in major country centres. In 2003 and 2005, the State Government established transitional accommodation centres for homeless and transient Aboriginal people in Port Augusta and Ceduna.
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Both of these centres provide Aboriginal people with a safe place to sleep, two meals a day, access to showers and laundry facilities and linkages to other support services. People staying at these centres contribute to the cost of their accommodation and services. Following a presentation to the Presbytery and Synod meeting in November there was strong support from table groups for the Uniting Church to be active in seeking the establishment of transitional accommodation. Unfortunately, welldeveloped plans to establish similar centres in Adelaide and Coober Pedy have stalled for lack of partnership funding from the Federal Government. In recent months, the Moderator, along with other Uniting Church leaders and agencies, has urged the State and Federal Governments to press on with this important work as part of what the South Australian Government has dubbed its “Safe Tracks” program. While both levels of government recognise the need to improve housing and accommodation options for Aboriginal people in and from remote communities, sufficient funding for the proposed centres in Adelaide and Coober Pedy has still not been allocated. The Uniting Church plans to continue its advocacy on behalf of people from remote Aboriginal communities. For more information on this work or to express your support or desire to be involved, contact Rev Don Catford (phone 8236 4253 or email dcatford@ sa.uca.org.au).
New era for leadership development and theological training
Members of the faculty of the newly launched Uniting College for Leadership & Theology, from left, Vicki Balabanski, Liz Boase and principal Andrew Dutney, holding the college logo.
Sarah Urmston The Uniting Church SA’s new centre for leadership development and theological training at Brooklyn Park was officially launched last month during the Presbytery and Synod meeting. The new centre will be called ‘Uniting College for Leadership & Theology’. Principal Rev Dr Andrew Dutney said it’s significant that it’s been 40 years since Parkin College (Congregational) and Wesley College (Methodist) were amalgamated to form ParkinWesley College. “Now Parkin-Wesley College, Coolamon College and the Leadership Institute have been integrated into a new college with a new mandate, a new name and a new logo,” Andrew said. “The logo design speaks of the different journeys people take in their growth in discipleship and service. At key points these
SPECIAL INVITATION
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converge. That convergence sometimes involves the educational programs of Uniting College. So the pathways converge and then disperse, as people continue their journeys in mission. “The cross at the centre of the logo is not just there as a matter of form, but as a real commitment, as Uniting College is consciously Christ-centred.” Later this year Aberfoyle Uniting Church associate pastor Craig Bailey will become the lecturer in leadership at Uniting College. Craig believes his passion for leadership, interest in theology and teaching-training background will be useful in the role. “I’m excited to be part of the new era in the training of our leaders and ministers which brings rigorous theology together with a serious approach to leadership,” he said. Uniting College will continue to be governed by the Leadership Development Council. The college is a key outcome of the Uniting Church SA’s strategic plan.
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APRIL 2009
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Seeking justice SA Attorney-General and Justice Minister Michael Atkinson has agreed to meet with the Uniting Church SA’s recently established Prison and Justice Issues Advocacy Group, following a Restorative Justice Forum at the Corner Uniting Church in February. The Attorney-General addressed the forum, along with Michael Dawson the executive officer for Victim Support Services and Leigh Garrett the CEO of Offenders Aid and Rehabilitation Services. The church’s advocacy group was established at the November Presbytery and Synod meeting to investigate prison justice issues and provide leadership to the church in addressing matters such as: • prison overcrowding • the over representation of Aboriginal people in jail • high levels of remand prisoners in SA jails • the plan to close Yatala, Adelaide Women’s Prison and James Nash House and transfer services to Murray Bridge
• repeated lockdowns in Port Augusta Prison • the lack of Correctional Services Department Support for chaplaincy. Prison and Justice Issues Advocacy Group convenor Greg Walker said the forum was an opportunity to communicate directly with the Attorney General and gain a commitment for future dialogue. “The group is now planning a strategic approach and looking at the issues we can best engage in and have the opportunity to influence government policy. Group member Bill Reddin said they also want to educate congregations about justice issues so that individuals might influence the political landscape. The advocacy group is aiming to report back to the Presbytery and Synod during the year. Anyone interested in being kept informed about the group’s actions may contact Greg Walker on 0427 616 212.
The Uniting Church SA Prison and Justice Issues Advocacy Group: from left, convenor Greg Walker, Bill Reddin, Les Underwood, Charlene Kent, Dean Whittaker and Scott Hutchinson.
New chapter for UCAE
A WILL TO CARE The generosity and forethought of people who have made a Bequest (a gift in their Will) can help us enormously.
UnitingCare Adelaide East’s new CEO Jeremy Brown, dispensing emergency relief during his first week on the job in March.
These legacies - a lasting, caring memorial gift, extending beyond your lifetime, allow UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide to continue to develop new and changing programs in response to community needs. For a FREE, NO OBLIGATION booklet on the steps you need to take before making a Will and how you can include a gift to UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide in your Will, please phone our Community Liaison Officer, Jaylee Cooper, on 8440 2254 or log on to our website www.ucwpa.org.au
APRIL 2009
There’s a fresh face at the helm at UnitingCare Adelaide East (UCAE). Twenty-five-year-old Jeremy Brown was recently appointed CEO. Jeremy has a Bachelor of Social Science and is presently studying for a Masters in Business Administration. He most recently worked as the director of Marion Life Community Services. Jeremy’s entry into the social welfare field was more by accident than design, but it’s turned out he has both a passion and an aptitude in the area. While studying he gained a position working for the Carer Support and Respite Centre. In recent years Jeremy has developed the services and programs at Marion Life, over-seeing its growth into a busy agency offering emergency relief, counselling and community programs.
While Marion Life had considerable funding, resources and volunteers, Jeremy was keen to take on a challenge and lead UCAE into a new future. He seeks to re-ignite relationships with Uniting Church congregations in the eastern suburbs and Adelaide Hills regions and support those churches to work within their own communities. Another priority is to enhance the existing range of services at UCAE – making it as userfriendly and as welcoming as possible. “We have a proud and rich history of service provision spanning over one hundred years - that is definitely worth fighting for,” Jeremy said.
EXPLORING BELIEFS
New Times
Holy Spirit always active
Rev Rod Dyson, Uniting Church SA Moderator A couple of days ago my son Jesse ran into the kitchen excitedly. “Dad, look at this,� he said. I was amazed. In his
hand he held a large bulb, dry dirt falling off of it as he spoke. Out of the top a long flower stalk protruded, with four large and beautiful white flowers. He hadn’t dug it up. Some months earlier he was given the bulb, placed it in his cubby house and then promptly forgot all about it. He had not tended it in any way. He wrote a note for his mum saying that he hadn’t done anything – it had happened all by itself. It now sits in pride of place on our dining room table. Easter is something like this for me. There is nothing that I have done but out of something that was dead, beautiful new life has come. What a gift.
Jesse had not expected such a thing and what if he hadn’t gone looking in the cubby house? Sometimes we don’t go looking for new life either – we focus more on the dirt falling off and making a mess of the kitchen. Jesse’s excitement and his beautiful find have reminded me to again look for signs of the Spirit. I believe that the Holy Spirit is active all the time. I expect God to be busy in people’s lives and in the world. That gives me great hope and encourages me in my ministry. God, please give me eyes to see that I may rejoice in the beauty you are creating and be in harmony with what you are doing.
Belief in the church
Sarah Agnew My life has been dramatically changed in recent years because I believe myself called to the role of Minister of the Word. With my call is a dream, a hint of a vision for a future
church that looks like nothing we’ve seen or known, but offers hope and spiritual nurture to all people, because it is made up of smaller, more intimate communities. These communities will gather in ways unlike ‘traditional’ church, but alongside it. The ‘old’ and the ‘new’ will encourage each other, compliment each other, as we open avenues for the body of Christ to grow. This is a dream I believe in for the sake of God and for the communities that gather in the name of Christ. This God I believe in is Creator, source of life, love and grace, the inspiration for love and grace among humans, writer of the story of creation, our story.
Explore your beliefs this Easter There’s no better time than Easter to re-examine our Christian beliefs. This Easter 28 local Uniting Church congregations are distributing colourful promotional postcards inviting people in their neighbourhoods to come to church to explore some of life’s big questions. In total 57,000 Uniting Church Easter postcards are destined for mail boxes around the state. But before helping others examine their beliefs – we probably need to start by pondering our own beliefs about the nature of God, the afterlife, divine intervention, the nature of sin and suffering and so forth. New Times has invited several church members to write about their beliefs in this issue. The five, including Moderator Rev Rod Dyson, are also some of the church’s elected representatives who
will be attending the Uniting Church’s national Assembly meeting in Sydney in July. Through their columns I hope you will get a feeling for the people who will help the church wrestle with some major issues later this year. And on a lighter note - if you need some help determining your own beliefs, I’ve discovered an interesting on-line tool called ‘BeliefO-Matic’. Even if you don’t know what faith you are, by answering 20 questions, Belief-O-Matic will tell you what religion (if any) you practice, or ought to consider practicing. So for some light entertainment, visit www. beliefnet.com. But be warned, Belief-O-Matic “assumes no legal liability for the ultimate fate of your soul�.
- Jill Freear
God is Wisdom, the Word and voice that calls us into relationship, into wholeness. The Spirit is the breath we breathe, the song we sing, our power to live and to love. Jesus Christ, God incarnate, is the agent of change in our relationship with the Holy One, bringing about the reign of God. God invites us to live out this reign, to be part of the story of creation, through communities of radical love and grace. And I believe we are all called to be part of God’s invitation to the world. Sarah attends Blackwood Uniting Church and is studying for ministry at Uniting College, (formerly Parkin-Wesley Theological College).
Easter – a time to respond July 2008 New Times 15 x 2 columns size (15cm deep x 10cm wide). Rev Jenny Swanbury Cost : $330 plus GST. Now is the time. Have you changed? You must Orderthe No. choose. Accept Jesus, follow narrow way and Charge Incorporated be born again. Such was the call to of Resthaven Rev Billy PO Box 327, Unley SA 5061 Graham 50 years ago here in Australia. On one day alone 143,000 flocked to the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Tens of thousands answered the call during that crusade and lives were changed.
Fifty years on and I’m reading a Diana Butler Bass book saying a turnaround in our lives or being ‘born again’ can occur through discernment. We need to ask the Godquestions, connect with the wisdom of God, with transformative compassion and join in the healing of our broken world. This active discernment is what Jesus meant when he said, “I am the Way�. I believe that at Easter, Jesus took God’s call on his life as a covenant of love, as transformative compassion and did not deviate from it, even as it led to suffering and death. I believe that at Easter in Jesus came that transformative new life, resurrection life, which even now is alive
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and active and very close to us. I believe Easter prompts us to respond. Yes, now is the time. Jenny is the Frontier Services Sturt Mobile Patrol minister. She is also a member of the Presbytery and Synod.
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EXPLORING BELIEFS
Dare to share our beliefs Important to show
I must confess to a secret vice: Christopher Hitchens. Hitch is a prominent and controversial author, commentator, debater and critic. He is abrasive, articulate and compelling on subjects such as politics, literature, history and religion. He is also an atheist, having written the recent bestseller ‘God is not Great: Why Religion Poisons Everything’. Hitch is a chain-smoking contrary genius. I disagree with him on a vast array of subjects, not the least faith. But I must admit to a special fondness for such a compelling and articulate advocate on the ‘other side’. Engaging with his
thoughts is fascinating and stirring, sometimes even appalling. Hitch, in his unique style, helps sharpen my belief. Beliefs emerge from a desire for the truth. And as all truth is surely found in God, I honestly feel that desiring truth leads me closer to God. I am addicted to the quest and it’s made me a stronger believer. I found Hitchens’ book about God interesting, but not convincing. Indeed while he argues that much religious activity is deeply unpleasant (as even Jesus would attest), he does not do well refuting God’s existence. But book stores and chat shows are filled at present with compelling atheists such as Hitch. And history is filled with Christian apologists. But where are the new guard? Where is our C S Lewis or even our Hitchens? Perhaps it’s up to us - this dangerous thrill of conversing about Jesus. At a garage sale recently, I found myself having a substantial chat with a stranger about Christ. I loved it, liked him and quickly accepted his invitation to dinner. I must confess, in the past, to a fear of finding myself in such a conversation, simply because I was uncertain, even paranoid, about my ability to defend the faith. What I love to do today is simply tell the truth. My life is calmly consumed with Jesus. This Easter, as we remember our Lord giving his life, be personally encouraged to speak up. With whom shall we broach the topic of Christ? With whom shall we dare to share our belief? Tim is the lead pastor at CitySoul, an inner city congregation for young adults. He is also a member of the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee.
If you are struggling to give up chocolate for Lent, why not consider a carbon fast. In the UK the energy and climate change minister has joined church leaders by calling for a “carbon fast” this Lent and is encouraging British people to cut their carbon footprints during the 40-day fast by taking steps such as removing a light bulb at home. Those behind the idea have pledged to ensure their computers, telephones and televisions are turned off and not left on standby every night. The carbon-fasting initiative is led by the development agency Tearfund, which signed
up 2,000 people to cut their carbon last year resulting in an estimated annual saving of 9,000 tonnes of CO2. This year’s fast is accompanied by an online campaign involving other websites such as YouTube. Tearfund’s site is offering daily carboncutting tips and social networking site Facebook is encouraging users to share energy-saving tips. Suggested carbon-cutting actions include eating no meat for a day, avoiding products with excess packaging and sharing car journeys with friends. For more details visit: ww.tearfund.org.
Tim Hein
God’s love to all Bruce Ind There is always a danger if you take a verse from the Bible, in isolation, and quote it to support a particular view or argument. In considering the request to write something of what I believe I guess it is my opportunity to live dangerously. As I was considering what to present, one verse of 1 Corinthians 13:11 kept coming into my mind. As a follower of The Christ I find myself on a journey. I know the understanding of the Divine I have now is different to the expression I once held. Through interaction with others, both Christian and not, and my life experience, I find
the God revealed to me is far more complex than I once considered it to be. One thing I am sure of is that God is revealed to me through the actions of others. We are all in God just as God is in all of us and that encourages me to try to act with grace towards everyone. Unfortunately, I sometimes fall short. 1 Corinthians13 deals with love. I believe that it is important that I try to love all I meet even if I may end up not liking them much. Bruce is the chairperson of Morialta Uniting Church Council and a member of the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee.
Carbon fasting for Lent
Bruce Ind at home with his guide dog Keely.
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Easter meditation Improved signage brings new life Behold, the Lamb of God to inner-city congregation You created us with the dangerous gift of free will, opening up the risks of independence. You desired that we should freely turn to you, share the deepest intimacy with you, have you express your glory through us – each with our own unique blueprint, flavoured by your life within us, and translated into a masterpiece by your Spirit. Fulfilled, yet fulfilling your purpose. But we loved our independence more than we loved you. We had our own ambitions for self-fulfilment, our own goals and priorities, as you knew we would. You could have made us automatons, programmed to love and obey. But love not given freely is not love at all, and obedience without free will is drudgery. And so even before you began to create, you foresaw a chasm between us. You saw the inevitability of sin, and answered it with the possibility of redemption. Before the first ray of light penetrated the chaos, before the first atom or DNA sequence had been conceived, you built into the fabric of the universe, and into the timeline of your eternity, a cross. And Jesus, beloved Son, took upon himself your plan and purpose for the redemption of humanity. His struggle in Gethsemane was pre-empted by his decision in heaven before time began, his readiness to embrace his Father’s will. And so, armed with that dreadful foreknowledge, he donned the mantle of humanity, vulnerable and dependent,
Maughan Uniting Church is now showing the world that it is a church on a mission. The congregation has just completed a two year process to improve the signage on the outside of their building, on the corner of Flinders and Pitt Streets, (alongside UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide). One of the ministers, Rev Dr Elizabeth Vreugdenhil, says members of the congregation were well aware that their building didn’t actually look like a church and that people walking past had no idea what was inside. “Because city churches tend to minister to travellers and lonely and isolated people, we felt improved signage was important to let people know about us,” said Elizabeth. The project began with members of the congregation sitting around in table groups to begin the visioning process and work on the design brief. “It was very consultative and inclusive. We wanted the tone to be contemporary, bright, down-to-earth and warm. And we wanted to show that we are a welcoming and active church for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.” Graphic designer Bronwyn Drew worked with the congregation – developing a church logo and tagline, as well as designing a number of large invitational posters with thought-provoking questions. The logo is a stylised picture of the church with a variety of different people interacting. The tagline, “Living life together”
One of Maughan Uniting Church’s ministers, Rev Dr Elizabeth Vreugdenhil proudly pointing out one of the church’s new signs. reinforces the graphic. The main sign includes a large photo of a wedding taking place inside the church – something Elizabeth felt was vital as she says “weddings are an important interface between the church and the community”. The new improved signage is already having an impact. “There have been lots of positive responses and people coming in as a result,” said Elizabeth. “Some people have simply stood and stared at the photos and some have come in to pray. “One lass, who had never been inside a church before, asked if she could come in
and ended up sharing all her problems with us.” While the signage has been important to show that the congregation is actively involved in social care and there to help others, Elizabeth says it’s been vital that the message is backed up with practical action. “We are working hard at being a welcoming and hospitable church. We have Sunday night teas, mainly for the disadvantaged, and a Christmas tea for the homeless. “We also have a ‘Centre of Welcome’ for new arrivals and have improved the way we welcome newcomers on Sunday mornings.”
and willingly entered our cynical and distorted world. Impossible, breathtaking, gutsy love prepared to do whatever was necessary to bring us back. Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. - Colette Williams Colette is the wife of Rev Rob Williams from Tusmore Park Uniting Church. She has been writing for some years and her work has been published in several Christian publications.
One of the new signs on the Flinders Street side of Maughan Church.
SPECIAL INVITATION Unitingcare Wesley Port Adelaide formerly Port Adelaide Mission Invites you to a Service of Thanksgiving in celebration of 90 years of ministry and service to the community 6:00pm Thursday 25th June 2009 The Uniting Church Commercial Rd Port Adelaide. Preacher Rev George Martin Former Superintendent 1967-1996
ALL WELCOME Further information Rev Dr Les Underwood 8440 2210 APRIL 2009
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NEWs
New Times
Pancake Day in Rundle Mall has French flavour Famous French chef and restaurateur Gabrielle Gate was a major drawcard for UnitingCare’s seventh annual Pancake Day in Rundle Mall in February. Gabrielle is the official patron of UnitingCare’s Pancake Day and he was assisted by the larger-thanlife Pancake Day mascot – Penny Pancake. Gabriel cooked his famous French crepes and auctioned them off to the crowd. Once again members of the Metropolitan Fire Service and Royal Australian Air Force competed in a Pancake Day relay race for the coveted Golden Frypan trophy. More than 50 volunteers helped at the Rundle Mall event throughout the day, including teams from Annesley College, AON Insurance and PKF auditors. The event was broadcast live on ABC breakfast radio by the Bald Brothers – John Kenneally and Tony McCarthy and was also filmed for local television news segments. Funds raised will stay in South Australia to help UnitingCare SA support people in need. Five hundred UnitingCare Pancake Day events were held in South Australia during February and are expected to raise approximately $70,000. More than $6,000 was raised at the Rundle Mall event. UnitingCare Adelaide East held an event in Norwood Mall which raised more than $600.
Louise Amber from UnitingCare Adelaide East and her four-month-old grand daughter Charlotte in Norwood Mall on Pancake Day. Left: Penny Pancake gets a hug from a young girl in Rundle Mall.
The official face of Pancake Day Gabrielle Gate and mascot Penny Pancake proved a drawcard for UnitingCare SA’s major Pancake Day event in Rundle Mall on Shrove Tuesday.
Norwood MP Vini Ciccarello with Rhonda Amber from UnitingCare Adelaide East, cooking pancakes in Norwood Mall.
Louise is our resident blogger
Uniting International Mission and Uniting Church Overseas Aid are now known as UnitingWorld. Please visit www.unitingworld.org.au for more information.
UnitingWorld is an Agency of the National Assembly of the Uniting Church.
APRIL 2009
MRN mission planner Louise Johnson has been writing about Lent on her blogsite which is linked to the Uniting Church SA website.
Interesting things are appearing on the Uniting Church SA website, thanks to our resident blogger MRN mission planner Louise Johnson. Louise has been writing blogs on our website for some time. She’s presently writing in a series of daily reflections during Lent. Her blogsite contains interesting events, graphics, photos and videos of things that will brighten your day – such as guerrilla gardening, dancing in Liverpool Station and recycling books via ‘Bookcrossing’. During Lent Louise has been using her blog to explore ways in which others are making a positive difference in the world. She is inviting you to visit and to post your own stories of hope and inspiration. Louise’s blogsite can be reached via the Uniting Church SA website or more directly at: http://www. onlylent.blogspot.com/.
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New Times
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New venue for KCO next year Next year KCO (KUCA Camp Out) will be held at the Barossa Valley Tourist Park. The KCO organising team believes the new venue is well-suited for the state-wide event as there is plenty of space for the hundreds of children and volunteers who attend each year. The tourist park has two large ovals in the centre of the campsite and is in a bush setting, enabling children to experience real camping.
This year, for the first time in its 31-year history, KCO was held as a series of regional events around South Australia while the KCO organising team looked for a new venue.
Children attending explored the idea of belonging to a place called ‘KCOnia’ and being connected with each other and the Son of God.
Until now KCO has been held annually at a West Beach caravan park, but the venue was no longer available to the church during March.
Young people, aged from seven to 12, took part in a range of space-themed events, including games, worship, craft and outdoor activities.
This year on March 14 and 15, 17 different KCO@ Home events were held throughout the state.
Next year the theme for the event in the Barossa will be ‘KCOnia United’.
Children attending the KCO event at Clare were greeted by a sign displaying the ‘KCOnia’ space theme.
Children at the KCO event at Adelaide West Uniting Church had their faces painted.
Below: These colourful characters were part of the entertainment at the Southern Hills KCO event. (Photo: Alan Short)
Below: Lots of children had their faces painted at the Clare KCO event. (Photo: Jo Watts).
A bouncy castle was one of the popular activities enjoyed by children attending the KCO event at Adelaide West Uniting Church.
KCOnia at Sunrise
Children from Brighton, Seacliff, Seacombe and Marion were entertained with plenty of drama and a giant puppet at the KCOnia at Sunrise event. (Photo: Coralie Hayley)
Kerry and Heather Backhouse What a day - 120 children came to our KCO event from six regional churches - Brighton Uniting, Seacliff Uniting, Seacombe Uniting, Marion Uniting, Marion Church of Christ and Southland Vineyard. After landing in ‘KCOnia’ the children went on an adventure to experience God’s love. They were taught to love God with all of their hearts, souls, minds and strength, and to love their neighbours as themselves. There were games, plenty of crafts and a carnival. Leaders and helpers from all the churches were invaluable. Our evening program included drama and a bedtime story presented by some of the children. Then the ‘One 50’ dance group demonstrated their Hip Hop skills. After a very fun-filled day, lots of tired children (and leaders) headed home, except for people from Brighton Uniting Church. Our 17 children slept at Brighton Church and participated in our worship service on Sunday morning. We had fun teaching our congregation some of the loud, fun songs we learnt during ‘KCOnia’. The event was a great time full of fun, faith and friendship and many children were able to experience God’s Love. APRIL 2009
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Tarlee congregation becomes independent
New Times
Denise to candidate
John Tayler After being part of the Light (Kapunda) Parish (Circuit) since its formation as a Methodist congregation in 1871, Tarlee members decided to become an independent Uniting Church congregation from January this year. Although they will no longer be part of the Light Parish, they still plan to be involved on certain occasions and hope a spirit of co-operation will still exist. The Tarlee congregation plans to control its own finances, preaching plan and outreach, and will be responsible for its own spiritual growth. The congregation hopes to interact with the Midlands Congregation and other Christians in Tarlee and surrounding areas. With many young families in the Tarlee congregation, members hope the move will allow for more flexibility in their worship and youth activities and enable them to be a more vital part of the world-wide Christian Church.
Historic chairs for Scots Scots Church has become the proud custodian of ten memorial chairs which were originally crafted by returned WWII servicemen for the Port Adelaide Presbyterian Church about 70 years ago. The chairs were received and re-dedicated at a Memorial Service at Scots Church in February. Spokesperson Mary Thomas said the chairs were originally dedicated at a service in the Port Adelaide church in St Vincent Street in 1940. “They were donated by family members to honour relatives who had contributed to the life and work of the church in that place,� Mary said. “There were two chairs for the minister - one a pulpit chair and one for the sanctuary when Communion was celebrated. These have upholstered seats and a little upholstery on the back of the chair.� The chairs are especially meaningful for Mary as the pulpit chair was given in memory of her grandparents Captain William and Mrs Jemima Muir; and another chair was dedicated to her grandmother’s sister Margaret Leask (and her husband Captain John Leask). “I am keen that the chairs be seen, and used, at Scots,� she said. “At present one is in the pulpit, four in the sanctuary, two in the minister’s study and three in the foyer.�
Denise Champion hopes to become the first Aboriginal woman in ordained ministry in South Australia. Denise Champion has taken on a supply ministry role in the Port Augusta (Chapel Street) and Quorn congregations while she candidates for ministry through the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) Denise is an Adnyamathanha woman, who grew up in Quorn in the Flinders Ranges - the traditional homelands of the Adnyamathanha people. She attended the Methodist Church in Quorn, along with her brothers and sisters and was in Sunday school when
Rev Ken Anderson had his first placement there. In her teenage years Denise was involved in the Aboriginal Evangelical Fellowship (AEF) which helped consolidate her faith. In 1990 Denise was invited to be part of the ministry team at Port Augusta under Rev Rod James. She established the ‘About Time Program’ – a camp for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people focussing on issues of covenanting and reconciliation.
More recently Denise has helped establish Tjinatjunanyi - a Congress program giving young people a second chance at education. Denise is presently enrolled in the National Christian Leadership Training Program run by Congress in Townsville. Congress resource person Ian Dempster said there is much excitement about Denise’s candidating, as she is likely to become the first Aboriginal woman in ordained ministry in the Uniting Church in South Australia.
‘New wave’ at national gathering
Building on a solid Foundation The Uniting Foundation’s capacity to make grants depends on you. Since 2004, 195 grants totalling $7,902,714 have funded mission and ministry work of the Uniting Church throughout South Australia. Today’s donations and tomorrow’s bequests earn income which supports: t UIF FTUBCMJTINFOU PG B OFX GBJUI DPNNVOJUZ BU .PVOU #BSLFS t B 'SJEBZ NPSOJOH XPSTIJQ TFSWJDF GPS QBSFOUT DBSFST BOE young children t UIF $FOUSF GPS .VMUJDVMUVSBM .JOJTUSZ t UIF A-JGF 4IFE NJOJTUSZ SFDPHOJTJOH BOE VUJMJTJOH UIF HJGUT brought by men to the congregation and the community t B DIVSDI CBTFE BOOVBM TZNQPTJVN FYQMPSJOH WBMVFT GPS living in the 21st century t QSPWJTJPO PG UIF "VTUSBMJBO -FBEFSTIJQ .BHB[JOF UP FWFSZ minister and lay pastor Your donations and bequests to the Uniting Foundation make this possible.
$POUBDU 7BMFSJF 8JMMJBNT 6OJUJOH 'PVOEBUJPO .BOBHFS (8236 4234 or vwilliams@sa.uca.org.au) or visit the 6OJUJOH 'PVOEBUJPO XFC QBHF PO www.sa.uca.org.au
APRIL 2009
The South Australians who attended a multicultural and cross-cultural ministry gathering on the Sunshine Coast are from left to right: Caren Kim, Dasni Rau, Wenny Trisvianne, Hov Chhorn, Rev Liellie McLaughlin, Bosco Opi, Karen Mayne, Meryl Gemo, Siti Rogoimuri, Judy Shaw, Rev Sue Langhans and Amel Manyon. Meryl Gemo Thirteen people from seven local congregations attended a national gathering organised by the Assembly’s Multicultural and Cross-cultural Ministry team on the Sunshine Coast, in February. The ‘New Wave’ theme of the meeting reflected the gathering’s focus on the new migrant leaders who are emerging within the church. The gathering discussed the gift that these people represent and the challenges involved in their ministries being recognised, developed and exercised to their full potential throughout the life of the church.
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New Times
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United Church of Canada media campaign provides food for thought Jill Freear The team charged with raising the Uniting Church SA’s profile, under the church’s Strategic Plan, has been hearing first-hand about a profile-raising campaign undertaken by the United Church of Canada (UCC). The UCC recently spent $10 million on a three-year media and congregational campaign to raise awareness about their denomination and invite younger Canadians to join them on a faith journey. Rev Lesley Harrison, who coordinated the congregational-aspect of the ‘Emerging Spirit’ campaign, was in Adelaide recently and shared details of the campaign with people involved in our church’s Strategic Plan. She said there are many parallels between the Uniting Church and the UCC, which is the largest Protestant denomination in Canada. The UCC was formed by the union of the Methodist, Congregational and Presbyterian churches in 1925; and later the Evangelical United Brethren. It has approximately 600,000 members and 4,500 congregations. But Lesley says the denomination is experiencing a decline in numbers of between two and three percent a year and has an aging workforce. “The average age for people in paid ministry is 52 and the average age of a person going into ministry is 47 – in
a business situation this would be considered a crisis, “she said. “We knew we needed to reshape our faith communities to become attractive welcoming places. “Because our church has an aging demographic, we decided to focus on reaching people aged between 30 and 45. “Research commissioned by the ‘Emerging Spirit’ project showed that 84 per cent of Canadians believe in God, but only 19 per cent regularly attend worship. “We had to ask why such a high number of people felt faith was important, and yet they didn’t attend church,” said Lesley.
Blocks to attending church Further research revealed the blocks to church attendance. Canadians feared they would be preached at and told what to do; and they thought they would encounter charismatic experiences that would make them uncomfortable. They also felt the church bred hatred and fear and that religion was something to be made a mockery of. In addition all Canadian churches were viewed as judgmental, arrogant, unwilling to listen and boring. “But the good news was that 77 percent of Canadians with no denominational background between 30 and 45 thought they might be interested in a church like ours, if they knew more about it – that’s 1.5
million people,” Lesley said. “When we discovered this, we felt it was worth spending money to connect with these people. “Further research helped us identify our five opportunities for outreach and mission – that is, the type of attributes that unchurched people were looking for. We discovered that people would be open to attending one of our congregations if it: • encouraged questioning • respected personal freedom and choice • built relationships with other faiths • included all life-styles, and • was open to change.
The Emerging Sprit campaign The UCC spent $5 million on an advertising campaign and a further $5 million on church development and welcoming ministries. The advertisements appeared in parenting and life-style magazines in order to connect with the target demographic. The ads encouraged people to explore the United Church online on the ‘Wondercafé’ website, or to search for a congregation near them. The website offers an opportunity to explore matters of life and faith. At the same time congregations were encouraged to become more welcoming and were provided resources and training. The media and congregation campaign was made possible
Rev Lesley Harrison from the United Church of Canada (UCC) was in Adelaide recently speaking about a media campaign which raised awareness about her denomination and invited young Canadians back to the church. by a bequest earmarked for evangelism and outreach. However, despite this funding source, Lesley said some congregations were negative about the project, claiming the church’s mission should be about peace and social justice. “But we countered this by saying that our mission would not continue if we didn’t have people coming into our churches. “We also had to grapple with deep-rooted congregational cultures that were resistant to change and with church leaders who felt ill-equipped to support or lead change.” Lesley said interest in the ‘Emerging Sprit’ campaign was far beyond their expectations. “In the week following the launch of the ‘Wondercafé’ the UCC had 150 minutes of television coverage, 300 minutes of radio air time and 86 print articles. An estimated 71 million people viewed information about the denomination.” More than 9,000 people used the online church locator facility and requested congregational information.
An invitational church
Two of the advertisements used during the United Church of Canada’s three-year-long profile-raising campaign.
“Through ‘Emerging Spirit’ the United Church has shown it wants to engage with people outside our community,” said Lesley. “Our message was aimed at the millions of Canadians who feel that organised religion is not relevant to their lifestyle. “It was about issuing an invitation to enter into a relationship and showing
people that the church wants to understand them and engage in the things that matter to them. “The Wondercafé is still getting about 50,000 hits a month – this is ahead of industry standards. But bums on pews? That’s a different question. “We’re trying to connect with people emotionally and spiritually. This has been likened to an advertising campaign to stop smoking – where millions of dollars might be spent over a decade to make a difference. “The impact on congregations runs the whole spectrum. Some are still running traditional high church. They are seeing a rapid decline in numbers and many are at the point of no return. “But a number of our congregations are now conducting radical emergent church worship – they sit in a circle on comfortable sofas; the average age is around 25; worship is interactive with a leader who changes every week. Yet there are still a lot of touchstones to traditional worship such as communion and the prayer of thanksgiving.” While the UCC is yet to formally evaluate the effectiveness of the campaign, Lesley said the gut feeling is that it was worth it. “There has been a shift in public perception – we have a higher profile, and at the end of the day, we had to try something.”
To find out more visit: www.wondercafe.ca www.emergingspirit.ca www.united-church.ca APRIL 2009
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New Times
Encouraging ‘fresh expressions’ Rev Rob Stoner One thing is certain about the church of the future – it will have forms of church that are different from the conventional model of church we are used to. These new models are becoming known in many countries as fresh expressions. Our presbytery has a Fresh Expressions Team, which was established as a key part of our Strategic Plan. The team consists of myself, Ruthmary Bond, Andrew Robertson, Trevor Whitney, Louise Johnson, Alan Dutton and Heidi Harding. We are interested in stirring up conversations about fresh expressions and discovering what new ideas are emerging across the church in South Australia. Defining what we mean by a fresh expression is difficult. There is no clear and precise definition. We have bounced the concept around and came up with the following as a conversation starter: A fresh expression of church is a gathering of people, including and open to those who are not presently part of a Christian congregation/faith community, which lives out the following core values: • engages with God and/in our world • engages with people’s experiences of life and spirituality • calls people to live out a faith in Christ
As part of our work, we want to encourage every congregation to establish at least one new group which engages people outside the church and has the potential to become a fresh expression. Some of the issues that must be confronted include: • How do we change people’s understanding of church? • How does something become a fresh expression rather than just a mission initiative? • How can existing congregations be encouraged to free resources, especially people, to be invested entirely in a fresh expression – with no thought of producing a return. • What will motivate people to get involved in a fresh expression? How will they move from meeting congregational needs to meeting the needs of others? If you have a story to tell about a fresh expression, we’d like to hear it. We want to put these stories on our fresh expressions website (http://mrn.sa.uca.org.au/mission-planning/freshexpressions.html) so that we might all learn from each other. Email your story to Louise Johnson at ljohnson@sa.uca.org.au. Stories we already know about are: • Triathlon Club begun by Andrew Robertson, which has moved with him to Athelstone UC.
• creates a new community of faith • transforms the lives of those who come and the culture of the community. To these we recently added:
• Youth Church and Singles Church at Kensington Park with Ruthmary and Matthew Bond • Hungry No More at Mount Barker
• must be intentional • must be regular and on-going • will evolve as a touching point for people who haven’t/wouldn’t join a conventional congregation
• EcoFaith Community – now resourced by Rev Rod Mann • CitySoul – with Tim Hein and Nathan Vawser
• needs to offer worship in some appropriate way
• Trevor Whitney’s interest in beginning a L’Arche Community in Adelaide
• has a link to an existing structure of the UCA.
• The Shed at Aberfoyle begun by Rodger Modra.
To help stimulate conversations we have a number of UK resources including:
We also want to track and assist church plants where a team from an existing congregation takes the DNA of that congregation and plants it into a new area, such as:
• DVDs on developing fresh expressions in a range of contexts • workbooks on ‘Listening for Mission’, ‘Starting a Fresh Expression’ and ‘Moving On in a Fresh Expression’ • A complete set of ‘Encounters on the Edge’, a quarterly publication of the Church Army in Sheffield. There is also a website: www. freshexpressions.org.uk with a multitude of resources and links.
• Aberfoyle’s Seaford campus • Fishgate, founded out of Coromandel Valley, now at the Corner • The Journey at Gateway Once again, we’d like to hear of stories of other church plants or of plans that congregations have for future plants.
Caretakers (voluntary) Old Birdsville Hospital
Frontier Services is seeking an energetic and practical volunteer couple to experience life in Outback Australia. You’ll live in our Old Birdsville Hospital and be responsible for maintaining an historic display, the facilities and grounds and meeting and greeting travellers. You’ll have ample time to explore this region on the edge of the Simpson Desert. If you are interested please email or write to Rosemary Young, National Director, GPO Box 2527, Sydney, 2001 or email rosemary.y@frontierservices.org
APRIL 2009
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Rev Rod Mann was recently inducted as the minister of the Ecofaith congregation – a fresh expression of church which meets in Botanic Park.
Aged care concerns Faith-based aged care organisations are becoming increasingly concerned about their ability to care for future generations of older Australians, especially disadvantaged and vulnerable people. The CEOs of two local UnitingCare aged care agencies have outlined their concerns for ‘New Times’ readers. Eldercare CEO Klaus Zimmermann writes that present Government policies are severely restricting access, service delivery and pricing options for all existing and prospective aged care clients. Resthaven CEO Richard Hearn is urging the Government to give greater prominence to issues affecting older people and to respond to the key needs associated with providing services to older people within our community.
Limited access and choice in residential aged care Klaus Zimmermann, CEO Eldercare Federal Government policy severely restricts access, service delivery and pricing options for all existing and prospective aged care clients. The industry is tightly regulated by government which determines who can access an aged care place, what services must be delivered and what the buildings must consist of. It allows no flexibility in the pricing of those services, nor does it allow clients to buy and pay for additional services. Access and choice is severely limited. The new funding system for aged care providers offers insufficient operational funding on a daily basis for low care clients, making it unviable and unstainable to admit some clients with a high care approval. Aged care providers need capital funding to sustain their business and this was previously available for 50 percent of the funding classifications that were in place. Under the new funding system it is now only available for 18.75 percent of classifications. In effect the new pricing system, introduced in March 2008, indicates that the Federal Government only wants high care clients to have access to aged care facilities. At the same time it has limited the ability of organisations to raise capital by restricting the range of clients who can be charged a refundable accommodation bond. Organisations like Eldercare have responded by limiting access to facilities to high care residents only, or will provide access to low care residents if they are accompanied by a refundable accommodation bond of at least $250,000. Continued on page 13.
MAGAZINE
New Times
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‘Church for Singles’ It’s early Saturday evening. There’s wine and cheese and a band. There’s lots of animated conversation going on in table groups. You could almost think you were at your local corner pub – except for the cross on the wall and the stained glass windows, which the lateafternoon sun pours through. But it’s not a pub scene. It is in fact a ‘fresh expression’ of church. Once a month Kensington Park Uniting Church opens its doors to a group of mature Christians who, for whatever reason, have ended up on their own. The ‘Church for Singles’ was the inspiration of Kensington Park Uniting Church member Julie-Anne Bingham. Julie-Anne is studying for a Bachelor of Theology and as a divorced mum, she understands how difficult life can be for single Christians. “Often our traditional church services are very family orientated. When we’re celebrating Mothers’ Day for example, it can be painful for people who come from fractured families, who may be struggling with feelings of loneliness and brokenness.
Aged care concerns Continued from page 12
As a result of current government policy, a large range of aged people requiring care are unable to get a place unless they have substantial independent means to pay the bond. In addition, organisations are denied access to capital thus stopping redevelopments, new developments and slowing down capital expenditure within the industry. The government has an annual tendering round for aged care bed licenses and in the last two years licences for Western Australia and Tasmania have been undersubscribed. There was no uptake of licenses in the Northern Territory at all last year. In addition many aged care providers have handed back licenses in the last six months which were not operational and had not been built because of insufficient daily funding and loss of capital-raising opportunities. This means that where demand is greatest, the supply of beds is being reduced. To date the Federal Government has not put forward any plans or vision on how it intends to deal with the many issues related to aged care.
“Sometimes family services can cause them to focus on the collapse of their own relationships and can exacerbate their pain. “I felt there was a real need for a congregation for single people who are looking for friendship and companionship. ‘Singles Church’ is designed to facilitate friendships and networking as well as provide a spiritual pathway for people.” Julie-Anne has a social work background and feels that God is now calling her into ministry with single people. She’s had strong support and encouragement from her own minister Ruthmary Bond. It was last year’s Global Leadership Summit which finally spurred them into action. “At the summit we were encouraged to establish church communities that meet a need, and to do something that no one else was doing,” Ruthmary said. And so ‘Church for Singles’ was launched. The new congregation was advertised on radio, in the newspaper and also on the Christian singles website ‘Big Church’.
Julie-Anne Bingham, the so-called ‘singles pastor’ at Kensington Park Uniting Church’s ‘Church for Singles’. “We had 48 calls after placing one advert in the Advertiser and one radio spot on FiveAA,” said Ruthmary. “There are clearly a lot of lonely people our there and our research had told us that Saturday night is often the most difficult time for singles. “We had 17 people turn out on our first night – and that was in the middle of a heatwave.” During the second meeting about 40 people attended.
The program content is not overly religious. Although the evening starts with a blessing and the band plays some Christian songs. Gradually it’s hoped the monthly meetings may evolve into fortnightly, and then weekly, café-style worship services with table discussions about matters of life and faith. The congregation will be cared for by Julie-Anne, who’s been dubbed the new congregation’s ‘singles pastor’.
Aged care funding concerns
Already she’s become involved in pastoral issues within the group and hopes in due course that she will officially become the minister to this newly emerging congregation. The Church for Singles (aged from 35 to 55) meets on the fourth Saturday of the month from 5 to 7pm at Kensington Park Uniting Church, 286 Kensington Road, Leabrook. Julie-Anne can be contacted on 0403 393 854.
Richard Hearn, CEO Resthaven The foundation of the Federal Government’s present aged care system dates back to the Aged Care reforms of 1987. A further major review was introduced in 1997, adding some flexibility within the system. Since the early 1990s the Federal Government has also offered increasing levels of community care packages to help people remain in their own homes. This has been an important initiative, but it does not offer enough choice for many older Australians. At the same time, the aged care system has become increasingly regulated - to the point where it risks being counter-productive in terms of being able to attract staff. Key to a sustainable aged care service system is ensuring adequate government funding as well as funding from elderly people who can afford to contribute towards the cost of services they are using. There are two fundamental funding issues being raised by service providers at present: • Capital funding for aged care facilities • The day to day indexation of both residential and community service programs. There is a significant risk that the Federal Government will not continue a critical 1.75 percent indexation supplement called “CAP” (Conditional Adjustment Payment). Choice and access in service delivery are also important, and intrinsically linked to ensuring sustainability of the system and to provide services near where people live. To ensure sustainability, residential aged care service providers have lobbied for the extension of accommodation bonds (interest free lump sum payments) to include high level care accommodation (nursing home). This system has been successful for low care accommodation (hostel) since the 1980s and has helped providers supply modern, high quality accommodation in residential care. We believe most service providers, church authorities and consumer advocate groups have seen the merit of a lump sum payment as a fair and equitable way to ensure sustained viability, yet Government continues to discount this option.
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The current Global Financial Crisis could have a devastating affect on our children. Unemployment, investment collapses, homelessness and even access to nutritious food could all be outcomes of a changing economic landscape.
But you can help. Fill out the enclosed UCWB appeal slip in this edition of New Times or visit our website at www.ucwb.org.au to donate online.
Uniting Care Wesley Bowden, 77 Gibson Street, Bowden SA 5007. Ph: 8245 7100. F:8346 7336. www.ucwb.org.au
APRIL 2009
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MAGAZINE
New Times the film ‘Touching the Void’ an award-winning record of two mountaineers climbing ‘Siula Grande’, an Andes-high alp in Peru, as the basis of their course and drawing on the biblical account for guidance, they lead to the sharing of our own Christian experience and learning. All this happens within a group experience that leads to both trust and prayer.
Book review:
‘Exploring the Void – a Lenten course’
This is not a course for those who are not willing to be challenged to grow in their faith, but those who do undertake the trip will, I think, find the going worthwhile. - Lindsay Faulkner
Authors: Nicholas and Judith Calver Published by Darton, Longman and Todd, 2008: RRP $15.95
CD review:
Each year we are asked to travel through Lent with a refreshing of our Christian lives, our eyes fixed on Jesus ‘the pioneer and perfector of our faith.’ But we tire! We see the same old trip in different guise.
Author: Henri J. M. Nouwen Published by DartonLongman and Todd; RRP $31.95
‘Exploring the void’ I found to be a fresh approach to this Lenten travel. They have subtitled their booklet ‘a Lenten course’ and so it is. By using
About your letters
Please keep your letters short — about 150 words is ideal. Longer letters will be cut or rejected. You’re welcome to email letters to newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or they can be posted to us at GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001
‘Return of the Prodigal Son – A Lent course on CD’
Once upon a time Lenten studies consisted of the Bible and a study book, then we got studies on videos with a talking head introducing the topic each week. Now in this case we have
The world continued to get smaller. Two more Uniting Church people visited. Thinking I knew not one person in the town, I experienced a network of outreach fellowship and prayers dispelling loneliness and warming my heart. I now know how the Uniting Church logo can break down barriers as God works miracles through his wide family. Coincidences? I don’t think so. They were all blessings. Helen Williams
UCA LOGO POWER During a recent visit to Port Broughton I became aware of how special the Uniting Church logo is and the immediate feeling of belonging it evokes. It was when I was admitted to Port Broughton Hospital with a back injury for six days that little miracles began to happen when others saw my UCA badge. First the Port Broughton doctor knew my GP; and my friend is god-mother to their children. Then the hospital presented me with a gift pack of toiletries and two visitors appeared wearing UCA badges. Then I received a card from my Adare Uniting Church home group, passed on by the home group leader’s brother who lives in Port Broughton. APRIL 2009
McCracken WHERE ARE OUR YOUTH? Where are our youth? They are in the pubs and clubs. A visit to any hotel on a Friday or Saturday night will find them crowded with young people. It is the age-old boy meets girl syndrome. This was the province of the church many years ago, but the youth have changed venues. No attempt has been made to win our young people back by allowing alcohol into our activities and many other plans have been tried and failed. Whilst such an idea appears preposterous we must do something. Is alcohol such a demon? Careful, prayerful consideration must be given. It is critical that people
something in between – a CD with audio only. The five studies are based on the book by Henri Nouwen in which he reflects on the spiritual journey inspired by Rembrandt’s painting of ‘The Return of the Prodigal Son’. There is a female narrator who introduces each session, setting the scene and telling us when to turn the CD off. I found her accent and style vaguely off-putting and a bit schoolmarmish. The male actor who reads excerpts from Nouwen’s book is easier on the ear. The CD is accompanied by a leader’s booklet with three sets of questions for each study. These are used when the CD is paused. I had just been reading Nouwen’s book and thought it would be interesting to share his insights with others, as he walked through the scenario of the parable of the Prodigal Son and put himself in each of the characters with reference to the painting. I am not sure that audio is the easiest format these days. The group would need access to a copy of the painting (as recommended in the course notes) and I wondered whether the five studies - which are very
reflective in nature - would be better suited to a weekend retreat than a Lenten study. However, to get to Nouwen’s conclusion is wondrous, whichever way you get there. - Glenys Badger
leading such a change would be capable of delivering a message well, knowing that the audience have most likely never been to Sunday school or a church service and are not devout Christians of deep spiritual experience. John Clarke Kurralta Park
the World Wide Web. It’s time those people on a mission review the processes and procedures through which they hope to achieve their aim. Unless they do, the repellent forces may well be greater than the forces of attraction. Maarten van de Loo Crafers
EVANGELISM OR EXPULSION
EXPANDING SUNDAY SCHOOL Three years ago, Enfield Uniting Church told its story to ‘New Times’. We were a congregation with more children (40 - mostly Sudanese from a refugee background) than we could adequately cater for. Now we have up to 70. We told of teachers who were “dedicated but tired”. They’re still dedicated and tired, but have had the wonderful experiences this ministry provides. We now use a bus and collect children from as far as Burton, and have employed a youth worker. But the needs are still great. The present workers need more support. We seek people who could commit to joining us. If you feel called to become part of our team, please get in touch. Email enfield.church@ internode.on.net, or call 8344 7857. Helen Munro Enfield Children’s Ministry Team
Many Christians see themselves as “people on a mission”, reaching out to the unchurched in order to bring them to Christ. That is fine, proclaim the Gospel and preach to all who will listen, your actions are commendable and will please God. But, having reached my twilight years, allow me to make a few observations. While the ‘dos’ of your mission should be taught by well trained and experienced theologians, the ‘don’ts’ can be passed on by anyone, particularly those who have been hurt. Evangelists need to listen with an open mind and should not accuse their opponents of being anti-Christianity and anti-church. And, most importantly, evangelical theologians should NEVER air their disagreements on
Book review:
Introducing the Uniting Church in Australia Author: Andrew Dutney Uniting Church Press, 2008; RRP $8.95 In less than 40 pages Rev Dr Andrew Dutney demystifies the Uniting Church in Australia, outlining its origins and history, traits, mission and structure in simple, easy-toread chapters.
The booklet contains much of the information that Andrew presented to Uniting Church ministers at three national ministers’ conferences last year. It’s an ideal resource not only for ministers, but also for congregation leaders and members, and for those preparing for baptism and confirmation within the Uniting Church. Several points stood out for me, such as the fact that it took 20 years to negotiate Church Union – an exercise that was “massively disruptive” to thousands of congregations and agencies; the fact that our church is “all about mission” and that our church is a “Christocracy” and not a democracy, and as such, must keep itself continually open to Christ’s leadership. The book ends with further questions for thought and discussion, making it an ideal resource for groups. However for those reading it on their own, Andrew has thoughtfully developed an online discussion forum which can be accessed via the Assembly website at: http:// assembly.uca.org.au. - Jill Freear
FEMALE MINISTERS I have read with interest your article on Rev Dr Anna Grant-Henderson. Besides giving an outline of Anna’s life as a minister you also mention Norah Norris from the Presbyterian Church and Margaret Polkinghorne from the Methodist Church who were both ministers at the time of union. I would like to point out that you have omitted my sister Thelma Holmes from your list. As Thelma was the first female to be ordained in the Methodist Church in South Australia I would have considered her worthy of a mention in your article. She is still very actively involved in the life of the Uniting Church. Beryl Aylen North Haven VICTORIAN BUSHFIRES When our political and church leaders ask us to pray for “all involved in the bushfires” do they mean we should also pray for the arsonists? David Wright Port Augusta
15 MAGAZINE
New Times The William Road, Christies Beach, choir, (part of the Noarlunga Uniting Church), is looking for surplus SATB sheet or multi song books, (at least 15 copies of each). Enquiries to Marjorie Oates on 8382 4119 or Graham Tilbrook on 8386 0004 or email: gdtilbrook@bigpond.com. Willunga Uniting Church will celebrate the opening of their new community hall on Easter Sunday (April 12) at 10.30am. Morning tea and a tour of the facilities will follow the service. All welcome. Murray Bridge Uniting Church are holding their annual thrift shop from April 14 to April 29, from 9am to 4pm daily (closed Sundays and Anzac day). Half price days on April 27 to April 29. Enquiries to Faye Menadue on 8532 5148. History grants are available from the Uniting Church Historical Society to assist churches with their celebrations. Closing date for applications is April 30, 2009. Contact Rev George Potter for an application form, via email: gwmepotter@picknowl.com.au or write to 26 Booth Avenue, Morphett Vale, SA 5162. Frontier Services Fundraiser. The Australian Army Band Adelaide will give a concert at Adelaide West Uniting Church on Sunday May 24 at 2pm. Adults $10, children $5; includes afternoon tea. Phone 8261 6852 for tickets.
To have your upcoming event or message published in the Notebook section of ‘New Times’, email newtimes@sa.uca.org.au, with the word ‘Notebook’ in the subject line.
The Marion-Warradale Uniting Church is offering Lent Labyrinths each Wednesday through Lent. The church will be open between 7 and 8.30pm every Wednesday. All welcome. State Mission Fellowship will be meeting at Scots Church on April 28 at 10am. Speakers are Lesley Williams on ‘Micro-finance in PNG’ and Bev Watson on ‘Hospital and health work in Southern India’. The Corner Uniting Church presents a ‘Mother’s Day Art Exhibition’ from May 9 to 27 in conjunction with a ‘Women of the Bible’ floral display from May 9 to 17. The exhibitions are open on Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 3.30pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 3.30pm, in the church foyer, corner of Oaklands and Diagonal Rds, Warradale. Entry $3. Enquiries to Pauline on 8376 2666. ‘Beyond the Chrysanthemum’ - a service acknowledging infertility, miscarriage and infant loss will be held on Saturday May 2 at 6.30pm at Westbourne Park Uniting Church (cnr Sussex Tce and Monmouth Rd Hawthorn). Enquiries to Judi Hartwig on 8271 7066. Restore your phonographic records or tapes to near original quality & preserve them on CD. Restore faded 35mm slides to original bright colour & preserve them on DVD. Ask us about VHS & 8mm film to DVD conversion.
SA MEDIAWORKS
Kent Town SA Ph: 8362 2251 samediaworks@soundtrack.net.au www.samediaworks.soundtrack.net.au
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The Grange Uniting Church Coffee Shop offers meals at reasonable prices in friendly surroundings and raises funds for Frontier Services and other local charities. The shop is open every Tuesday from 11.00 am to 1.30 pm. Group bookings can be made by calling Veronica Baines on 8353 1225. The centenary of the opening of the Mallala Uniting Church building will be celebrated on Sunday, June 28. A church service will be held at 10am and include a reenactment of the laying of the foundation stone. Lunch will follow at 1.30pm with a time to remember. All welcome. Please bring memorabilia and photos. Enquiries to rosejenkin@gmail. com.au or phone 8527 2424. A volunteer electrician is needed to assist a working party going to Mwandi, Zambia during June/July 2009. The group will be installing a watering system for the Mwandi Mission Hospital. Enquiries to Robin DixonThompson on 0429 690 397 or 8684 2065 or email mwandisupportteam@gmail. com.
Aboriginal Art for Sale .
Assist artist to attend Christian Events. Check Website “On God’s Track” (ongodstrack.net ) Click on Julia’s art. Other artists available. Or contact David Wright, 0428 265 543
MARRIED COUPLES Take 'time out' at a GTIM retreat weekend just for you and your relationship. Dates for 2009: 1-3 May, Weintal Resort, Tanunda 26-28 June, Weintal Resort, Tanunda 21-23 August, Nunyara Conf Centre, Belair 30 Oct - Nov 1, Weintal Resort, Tanunda
Enquiries: phone 8331 7061 See also www.gtimsa.org
The daily practice of peace Shannon Dillon, Uniting Faith and Justice Violence plagues our world, our communities, and sometimes our families and personal relationships. As Disciples of Christ we are called to be peacemakers. But what can we do as individuals to counter the powerful force of violence? “Peace begins within each person and needs to be nourished by our own spirituality. The next step is to develop the skills to put that peace into action in our relationships, communities and world,” said Rev Glenda Blakefield, associate general secretary of the Uniting Church Assembly. Recognising its commitment as a peacemaking church, the Uniting Church in Australia is supporting a series of retreats
known as ‘The Daily Practice of Peace’. The retreats provide valuable opportunities for individuals to develop their understanding of peace and learn to implement the sustainable practice of peace and nonviolence in their lives and their communities. Retreats will be held in South Australia from July 13 to 17 this year. Further information is available on the Assembly website at: www.assembly.uca. org.au. The Uniting Church holds that God came in the crucified and risen Christ to make peace and that God calls all Christians to be peacemakers, to save life, to heal and to love their neighbours. ‘The Daily Practice of Peace’ retreats provide an opportunity for church members to reflect on how this can be done, both on an individual level and as a community. OUTBACK EXPERIENCE TOURS by Jingo
Work Wanted CARPETS LAID. Expert repairs. 0417 872 105 or 8344 4725. EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN Odd jobs and gardening. “Your spare pair of hands” Phone 8346 0933
Travel with well-known Kerrin (Jingo) March in 2004 MODEL 4WD BUS to Birdsville, Innamincka, Strzelecki Track, Coober Pedy, Flinders & Gammon Ranges, Kangaroo Island and Broken Hill. Fully accommodated - no camping For bookings phone: AUSSIE GETAWAYS (08) 8231 2004
OFFICE SUPPORT PERSON Rosefield Uniting Church at Highgate is seeking to add an office support person to its ministry team. Flexible. 16 hours/week, over four days. Duties include reception, preparation of e-newsletter, PowerPoint and orders of worship. Further information email admin@rosefield.org.au or contact Rev Phil Hoffmann 8271 9528.
Deputy Executive Officer, UnitingCare Are you looking for a diverse and challenging role? If so, this could be the position for you. Reporting to the Executive Officer, UnitingCare, the Deputy Executive Officer is an integral part of the UnitingCare SA team, working with the network of Uniting Church agencies, colleges and schools. Key responsibilities include: Ê UÊ Ã«iV wVÊÃÕ«« ÀÌÊÌ Êà > iÀÊ1 Ì } >ÀiÊ>}i V iÃ Ê UÊ vwViÊ> `ÊÃÌ>vvÊ > >}i i Ì Ê UÊ ÃÕ«« ÀÌÊ> `Ê`iÛi « i ÌÊ vÊÌ iÊ1 Ì } >ÀiÊÌi> Ê UÊ « VÞÊ`iÛi « i ÌÊ> `Ê « i i Ì>Ì Ê UÊ «À iVÌÊÜ À A full Information Pack and Position Description are available online at www.sa.unitingcare.org.au. For further information please email hrm@sa.uca.org.au or call Karen Granger on 8236 4278 Applications close Monday 20 April 2009.
APRIL 2009
16
MAGAZINE
New Times
Resource helps churches connect with local communities A new resource is available to help congregations understand the make-up of their surrounding communities. The National Church Life Survey (NCLS) resource profiles the local community for every church in Australia and helps churches connect more effectively with their community. The Community Connections Pack is based on national census information and is uniquely tailored to each individual church. The resource is available to every church, regardless of whether they participated in the NCLS Church Life Survey. The NCLS Community Social Profile (CSP) is the centrepiece of the resource pack. It contains information about a local community, including population, age, education, income, housing and cultural background.
Deb Harrison leads her Keep Fit class at Westbourne Park Uniting Church.
Raising a sweat for mission For the past 20 years Deb Harrison (front right in the photo) and the ladies who attend her Keep Fit Classes at Westbourne Park Uniting Church have been raising a sweat to raise funds for mission. Over the years the ladies’ fees for ‘Fit and Fabulous’ and ‘Forever Forties’ classes have raised more than $90,000 for a variety of causes. As well as staying trim, taut and terrific they have supported church projects – such
as surfacing the playground, repairing floors, purchasing heaters and employing crèche workers. They have also donated to a host of other organisations which support the disabled, sick and disadvantaged. For Deb, who’s a physiotherapist and a member of the congregation, it’s been a great way of raising funds for mission while also helping others to keep their bodies and souls fit.
The Community Connections Pack was sent to all churches late last year, with the option to purchase or return. Churches that purchased the resource will soon have access to their Community Social Profiles online, by using their Admin Key on the NCLS website - ww.ncls.org.au/community.
Where is your God? In the wake of Victoria’s tragic bushfires, Rev Dr Peter Blackwood, the associate General Secretary of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, discusses a crisis of faith. The summer fires in Victoria have raised many questions. Tough times always do. Some of the questions will be asked of science. Some of politics. Others will be asked of religion. In some of the ancient songs of the Hebrew Scriptures, the poets described their suffering as separation from God. “When shall I come and behold the face of God?” sings Psalm 42. The singer’s detractors ask the devastating question: “Where is your God?” Tough times evoke such feelings of abandonment. When the times are really tough it can be hard to recognise where God is. We may need to move on a bit and then look back to see where God was. It is often in retrospect that people of faith have recognised that in every act of self-giving love, grace, generosity and heroism, the spirit of God has been at work. APRIL 2009
When time has passed, bushfire survivors may be able to look back and recognise God in the work of emergency services and medical staff and others who gave comfort and support. These are the obvious evidence of the presence of God. God is in selfgiving love. But it is not only in the helper that God is present. God is present experiencing all that the victim experiences too. This is a truth Christians realise as they contemplate the death of Jesus. Where is God in the story of the Christ’s crucifixion? God is hanging on the cross. God suffers in the victim. When the church speaks of the crucifixion, it speaks also of resurrection of new life that comes from death. This is not the time to be rushing on too quickly to talk of new life, but we will discover that new life will become a part of the story. A few days after the fires of 1983 (Ash Wednesday), I drove through the blackened farms and forests east of Warrnambool. Everything looked charred and dead, but then I noticed new blooms of little pink belladonna lilies. For me they were a promise
of new life to come, a sign of hope. The church has learned that resurrection is about new life. It is not a resuscitation of the old life. Victorian towns can expect resurrection. The new life they build will not be the same as the old life. The empty spaces left by those killed will be part of their rebuilding, part of the wholeness they will come to embrace.
HELP South Aussies keep going forward
(Reprinted from Crosslight)
WE DO! PLEASE DONATE TO UNITINGCARE WESLEY ADELAIDE. 10 Pitt St, ADELAIDE SA 5000 or GPO Box 2534, ADELAIDE SA 5001. Ph: 82025112 www.ucwesleyadelaide.org.au