August 2012
Church partnerships Issue 31, No 7 August 2012
Sharing, giving, living
Milking money from markets Newland Memorial partners with Fleurieu Milk Company pp. 8–9
Shouting together When enough sexualisation is enough pp. 12–13
Serving the WHOLE church
Contents FEATURES Post-disaster partnerships
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Meeting needs with milk
Why not consider enrolling in: Engaging in the Gospels The foundation story of the Christian Church (Certificate IV level, in distance mode) Leadership and Organisational Culture with Craig Bailey Leading a Christian, volunteer-intensive, non-profit organisation 12-23 November (Bachelor of Ministry or Post-Graduate level) Leadership as Discernment with Beatrice Panne Applying a communal discernment process to your own context 27-29 November (Post-Graduate level) Uniting College for Leadership & Theology is the ministry training and theological education agency of the Uniting Church SA. Uniting College is a member college of the Adelaide College of Divinity, a registered Higher Education Provider and Registered Training Organisation
CONTACT: 08 8416 8420 info@unitingcollege.org.au www.unitingcollege.org.au www.acd.edu.au
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Shouting together
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Seven page Assembly coverage
REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s Comment
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Positions Vacant
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Reviews
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Letters to the Editor
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Diary
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Editor Caryn Rogers p. 8236 4230 e. crogers@sa.uca.org.au Advertising Loan Leane p. 7007 9020 m. 0404 089 762 e. advertising.newtimes@sa.uca.org.au Enquiries e. newtimes@sa.uca.org.au
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ISSN 0726-2612 New Times is the voice of Uniting Church SA. Published monthly, February through December, New Times represents the breadth, diversity and vision of Uniting Church members in SA. News policies, guides and deadlines appear online at newtimes.sa.uca.org.au. Articles and advertising do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor. Phone: (08) 8236 4200 1300 766 956 (toll free from
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Men of faith
After covering women of faith in May last year, now we turn our attention to men. Men come in all shapes and sizes, but often their faith is expected to be one-size-fits-all. How are churches offering new explorations of masculine faith? iStockphoto reference: pp. 12-13 erwo1
The good, bad and the dismembering It was the best of times; it was the worst of times... states the opening line of ‘The Tale of Two Cities’ by Charles Dickens. I feel like church partnerships, and partnerships in general, are both the best of times and the worst of times. In fact, when I think about partnerships in this best/worst regard, it makes me think of two very different uses for a team of four horses. The first is obvious. When a team of four horses, of even height, strength and athleticism, are hitched to the same carriage or weight, they create an efficient partnership to transport their cargo to wherever it needs to go. The second is not so much a team as four competing bodies. In differing, torturous settings over the course of history, four horses have been tied to the individual limbs of a human being
and then spooked to run in opposite directions until the human body is torn apart. It’s the same numbers of horses, but in one scenario they draw together, they direct forward; in the other, they pull in opposite directions - they divide, dismember and destroy. Four horses with purpose, four horses in disarray - a violently different result. Partnerships involve compromise, mutuality, sharing of ideas, humility and yes, agreed direction. I think within the Uniting Church we struggle and succeed in each of these areas as we wade in our often difficult diversities. I was really proud of the Uniting Church Assembly as it stood together with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress on the steps of Parliament House on Thursday 19 July
to protest ‘Stronger Futures’ legislation. We were a team pulling in the same direction - we were believing in the story of our past, and a greater hopefulness for our future, as Aboriginal and nonAboriginal Australians. I think this momentous moment of togetherness helped the Assembly meeting to see each other humanely and, as we dealt with areas we knew we couldn’t pull together in, the decision making process was taken gently, tentatively and thoughtfully. Though there were tears at times, there were also triumphs. I was proud to observe an Assembly – which even when it was painful and difficult to do so – remained committed to unity and community.
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Uniting on the steps of Parliament House to protest ‘Stronger Futures’ legislation.
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Partnering for life Rev Rob WIlliams
Partnership has been part of my life as long as I can remember.
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I’m sure I didn’t think of many situations that way at the time but with the wisdom of hindsight, I believe it to be true. At first there was the parent/child ‘partnership’ followed by others such as teacher/student, friend/ friend, employer/employee and so on the list goes. When preparing for the vote on Church Union, I became aware of further partnerships I’d never considered before. I heard or read that the new ‘Uniting Church’ was to be formed with a series of inter-related councils. Each would be in partnership with the other, each with specific duties and responsibilities,
each being strengthened in its role as one listened to the other and respected the mission shared in Christ that would help each work together. As I write this article, Assembly 2012, the 13th Triennial Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia, is only days away. By the time you read this, the church will have installed its new President, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, and dealt with matters to ensure more appropriate ways of working together within our church as well as with others living in our various communities. The presence of guests from overseas churches will have reminded the Assembly of the many
partnerships we share for the sake of the Gospel, while attendees from Australian churches and church bodies will have recalled some to the importance of working together ‘at home’. As a church, we engage in partnerships such as these because we each have a common, personal partnership/relationship with the Lord of the Church, Jesus Christ. That partnership causes us to be aware of the needs of others within our congregations and communities, as well as within Australia and overseas and to move that awareness to Christian action. Such action results in the church being enriched as we see Christ at work through us
and as we see Christ at work through those we serve. This is the exciting experience of being in a mutual partnership. I invite you to take some time out to reflect on your partnership/relationship with the Lord of the Church. Those feeling stressed or tired through serving could consider Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 11:28-30 – rest in weariness. Others sensing the fragility of your partnership/ relationship with Jesus Christ might find encouragement in John 15:1-8 – remain in me. And may the Spirit grow your mutual partnership with Christ.
Rev Rob Williams blesses and ‘releases’ Rev Prof Andrew Dutney at the June Presbytery and Synod SA meeting ahead of his installation as President of the Uniting Church in Australia.
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Pastoral statement on Christmas Island tragedy Rev Alistair Macrae, Ex-President, Uniting Church in Australia Assembly
More than 25 years ago a bassbaritone, the late Jeff Nicholls, recognised a need for music that might stimulate and entertain residents in nursing homes and aged care facilities. He gathered together a group of interested Christian musicians to consider how they could respond to the need. Consequently, the Celebration Concert Party (CCP) was born. CCP has a wide variety of artists both instrumental and vocal, who come from many different Christian denominations. Currently the eight singers, four instrumentalists and three pianists work in approximate teams of five for each concert, determined by availability. There is no uniform, group rehearsal or cost (though a means of transportation is desirable) - they are simply Christians who feel called by God to the valuable ministry.
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The tragedies of today and last week have once again drawn our attention to the plight of asylum seekers in our region. Too many places in our world are ravaged by violence and too many people suffer the horrors of torture and persecution. In this broken world, people will always seek safety and the opportunity to live a life of freedom, even if the journey itself poses grave risk. This life of safety is one that we as Australians too often take for granted, and too often fail to share in the true spirit of hospitality and welcome. The boats that come to our shores do not carry criminals. They carry men, women and children who flee torture and persecution. As the nation responds to these latest tragedies, we pray that the harshness of partisan politics be replaced with compassion and humanity. We pray that the Parliament will rise above the longstanding and divisive rhetoric which damages lives and destroys hope. We pray that the voices of Australians who embody the spirit of hospitality in their everyday lives will be heard above a shrill minority. We continue to pray and work for a world in which people are not forced to abandon their lives and their homes and seek safety by way of a dangerous journey to nations such as ours. This response was written in late June promptly following Christmas Island tragedy which occurred on 27 June 2012.
Music, entertainment, aged care—is God calling you to this ministry?
Putting faith into action
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Jeremy Brown Churches play a very special and unique role in our community. They offer something that is increasingly hard to find these days: a place to belong. I am constantly amazed by the various community outreach projects that have been created and driven by local congregations. These programs support the most vulnerable, include the marginalised and provide opportunities for those who have been left behind by mainstream society. Every church I visit has its own unique sense of mission in its surrounding community. As an agency of the Uniting Church, we hope that Uniting Communities can play a role in encouraging and supporting congregations in community outreach projects. During the July to September period, Uniting Church SA is focussing on the links that exist between local churches and their surrounding communities through the ‘CommUnity Day’ campaign. This campaign is a great reminder of the unique and essential role that the Uniting Church plays in our society. To play our part, Uniting Communities is very excited to be running a ‘Community Development Day’ specifically
targeted towards church congregations. This day has the aim of encouraging and further equipping churches in their local mission. There will be inspiring speakers, lots of interaction and an opportunity to meet and share with other church representatives. We really hope you are able to be part of it. We are encouraging as many Churches as possible to participate in the day through identifying members that are passionate about ‘Community’ and sending them along. The community development event, titled ‘Putting Faith into Action – Church and Community’, will be held at Burnside City Uniting Church on Saturday 15 September, 9am - 4:30pm. Bookings are essential and can be made by contacting Kim Graham on 8202 5101 or kimg@unitingcommunities.org. You can access information about the event including the poster, flyers and a draft Church newsletter article at the following web address: Bit.ly/faithintoaction We really hope to see you in September! Jeremy Brown is the Manager of Community Engagement for Uniting Communities.
Stopping for roses In hope of encouraging people to become more involved with their spiritual sides, Pilgrim Uniting has created the Rest of Sunday Experience (ROSE) to cater to those looking for a varied church experience. ROSE events are held from 5-8pm fortnightly, with the first Sunday of each month hosted at home (Pilgrim Uniting) and the third Sunday at another location. The initiative allows for space and capacity for dialogue and dreaming beyond Pilgrim’s three regular services.
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Past events have involved meditative walks through the Botanic Gardens followed by dinner at Hackney Pub. Another time, ROSE gathered with Quakers for 30 minutes of silence, before dinner and a speech from former Anglicare CEO Lyn Arnold. A couple who cycled around Vietnam provided the focus for another ROSE event, with stories and photos interspersed with reflections from the film, Motorcycle Diaries. On 5 August, ROSE will host a poetry night where the imagery of professional
storytellers costs only a gold coin donation. The following ROSE evening is a Gospel Jazz performance held at Noarlunga Uniting Church, with light supper provided at the interval. Later in the year, an insightful seminar on living creatively in older years will be presented. The ROSE events are intended for Pilgrim people and beyond – particularly those who wouldn’t regularly come to church for worship, but are interested in a spiritual connection.
Church Partners for life For Uniting Churches, mission is a two-way street. With a focus on partnership and mutual learning, local churches often find their lives enriched – even when they have expected to be the ones doing the enriching.
Offering post-crisis support Andrew Clarke The effects of a natural disaster can take a long time to clean up. For example, some of the houses damaged in the December 2010 Stockport floods are still not repaired due to the presence of asbestos. This now seems a very long wait for those who were affected by this short, sharp event. For the rest of us, unaffected, the event is long-gone and almost forgotten. Others will never forget the loss of loved ones in situations like the Wangary (Eyre Peninsula) fire. Neither can those easily forget who, having to leave their caravans at the Port Lincoln Caravan Park, stood in the sea as that same fire swept towards them. The Post Disaster Ministry was established to provide pastoral care for these and other emergencies. It is ecumenical, and operates across South Australia in over sixty settings, most commonly through Interchurch Councils.
This Ministry, which operates in partnership with the state government and is solidified through a memorandum of understanding, can be activated at any time of need. These times of need include fires, floods, extreme heatwaves and evacuations for safety reasons along with all the traumatic events which we know can occur. When disaster strikes, the first necessary response is to deal with the physical event. The fire needs to be put out, the flood mitigated. Along with this is the longer term effect on the individuals concerned. It is here that the church can offer pastoral care. People never forget those who stood by them at a time of crisis. Although professional help is often made available in the short term, at some point, the professionals all depart and the local church remains to provide what care it can for the long haul of recovery and
restoration. This is both an important partnership and an important witness. In an effort to improve our response to such events, the Post Disaster Ministry has invited Rev Stephen Robinson to present a two-day workshop at Burnside City Uniting Church on 7-8 August. Stephen has studied pastoral care for such situations, has a significant background of fieldwork in this ministry and is a published author. He will be presenting a chaplaincy approach to pastoral care in disaster settings. This seminar offers an opportunity to fine tune our responses and improve our skills. It is open to all who would like to find their feet in this much-needed field. For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me in my role as the Post Disaster Pastoral Ministry Coordinator on 0429 190 007.
In a crisis, many helpful community groups and volunteers flock to support a community get back on their feet. But when the danger of that crisis is over, there is often still much work, and caring, that needs to be done – this is often where Post Disaster Ministry work is most needed.
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Milking money from markets Church Partners for life
For Rev Matthew Stuart, taking up his first placement as a minister in Victor Harbor has meant a paradigm shift in his thinking – away from mission equalling an abandonment of traditional church buildings.
The place of the church in culture has drastically shifted from 20 years ago and with it, so has the role of the church. While we are seeing dwindling numbers in traditional churches, we are also witnessing an increase in the number of people searching for something spiritual. It explains why much of our missional energy has been directed towards the exploration of new ways to do and be church. We continue to see many small congregations struggle financially. Within these communities there is often a passion for mission opposed by the responsibility of the church’s budget and
mounting maintenance bills. Three years ago, my inexperienced answer to these financial questions would have been: "Sell the building, and explore new ways of being church with your local community.� It remained that simple until I received my first call to serve Newland Memorial Uniting Church in Victor Harbor. As a 30-year old in my first year of ordained ministry, I was placed in a congregation with an average age of 75. We had two heritage-listed buildings slowly falling apart - and selling was not an option. As a congregation, we were desperate to connect better with the community yet we didn't have the
Aaron offers his dad, Rev Matthew Stuart of Newland Memorial Uniting Church, a drink of Fleurieu Milk Company milk at the Victor Harbor Market stall they are manning with Harvey Bennett. The stall benefits the locally owned dairy business while raising funds for a much needed re-roof at Newland.
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knowledge or resources at hand to think outside of the bricks and, slowly disintegrating, roof tiles. I had been praying for some guidance about our financial affairs, especially since our Church Council had decided that we had to fix the roof. I was concerned about how we, a small congregation of about 55 worshipping members, would be able to afford such a pricey project. As a new member of the quiet seaside town, I began taking my young son to the local Farmers Market every Saturday to get a better feel for the place, and to take advantage of the perks of regional
for the market and also decided they would operate it all by consignment. The only thing the church had to do was put the order in each week, pick up the truck on Friday, sell the products at the market Saturday morning, and then return the truck. Now, I just had to work out how to sell it to the Church Council. Through prayer and great risk, Newland Memorial Church Council decided to go with it. The opportunity to build relationships with a different section of the community overshadowed the number of concerns the church had. December 2011 was our first month at the market and we were expecting to see about $250 for the four Saturdays combined. We were also expecting it to take some time for people to become comfortable with the idea of the church selling products at the local farmers market. Well, we were incredibly surprised by the outcome— close to $500 for the first month and an established 30 regular customers.
Since then, we turn an average of $100-150 profit per week. We have also advertised our Christmas and Easter services through the stall, and had about 120 people at each service. Our relationship with the Farmers Market continues to grow. What will come of the relationship between the church and the market? Right now, we continue to be blessed by this amazing opportunity to build wonderful partnerships with the people around us and to share in the joy of great local produce – and the livelihood it gives to producers.
Church Partners for life
living. The market community welcomed me, pushing a pram around the crowded market for several hours while dressed in my clerical collar, as I became a regular figure at the weekly event. I was slowly getting to know the stall holders when, during these early months, I overheard the Market’s manager lamenting that they were about to lose their dairy stall. It sparked an idea - one which could synonymously solve our missional conundrum and financial problems. I approached the manager with a crazy idea: "What about if the church could manage a dairy stall for you? Could that work?" My lack of knowledge about milk was remedied by a meeting between myself and the owners of Fleurieu Milk Company (FMC). The idea was met with great enthusiasm, as the company hoped to be at the Victor Harbor Farmers Market but didn't have anyone to represent them. By the end of the meeting, FMC had donated the use of one of their refrigerated trucks
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The origins of our dissenting tradition
Church Partners for life
Rev Dr Jonathan Barker
Three hundred and fifty years ago, on 24 August 1662, the English Parliament passed the Act of Uniformity soon after Charles II was restored to the throne following the Commonwealth. The Act prescribed that any minister and congregation who refused to conform to the Book of Common Prayer by St Bartholomew's Day 1662 should be ejected from the Church of England. This date became known as Black Bartholomew's Day, for it was on the same day in 1572 that the French Protestants (Huguenots) were expelled and massacred. Up to 2,500 dissenting Puritan ministers left their positions as Church of England clergy with their congregations. Known as the Great Ejection this event is arguably the birth of our particular own Uniting Church religious tradition. Dissenters were hounded, harassed, imprisoned and tortured, but undaunted they gathered in homes and barns, even under trees, which became a particular symbol of their radical faith.
Then the Five Mile Act was enacted, which decreed that dissenting chapels could only be built 5 miles outside any town. Soon chapels sprang up all over England and Wales. Interestingly, many congregations actually chose to use the Prayer Book. Freedom to choose was the issue. For dissenters, the authority of Christ was vested in the local congregation, not something to be exercised by bishops from on high. The core issue was not "phrases in the Book of Common Prayer and forms of church order," but the very "nature of true Christianity." Dissenting churches included Independents, Presbyterians, Baptists and Quakers. Strict religious tests excluded these nonconformists from public affairs and Universities for a century and a half. Roman Catholics were also excluded. Despite Bishop JC Ryle referring to the Ejection as an “injury to the cause of true religion in England, which will probably never be repaired", the fact is that non-conformity endured sufficiently to become a vital part of the religious landscape. To this day, people’s Christian allegiance can be known as either “church” or “chapel”. Over the next couple of centuries, Independents became known as Congregationalists, although the Welsh continue to be known as Independents.
Subsequently, various forms of Methodism swelled the numbers of non-conformists, most of who were imbued with the dissenting ethos. In time, English Law was moderated and dissenters were allowed into Universities. In the mid 19th century, the dissenting tradition experienced considerable growth and influence politically, economically and culturally - among the bourgeoning middle classes and, in some instances, associated with radical movements such as the Chartists, who campaigned against oppressive working conditions and championed civil rights. The first Congregationalists and other non-Anglicans in the colony of South Australia were still infused with the spirit of dissent and were in the forefront of rejecting all attempts for the Church of England to become the established church. South Australia became known as “The Paradise of Dissent”. With a majority in its first Legislative Assembly, the first Parliamentary acts were to reject an established church and any form of State Aid to religion. This was the first time such a separation between church and state had occurred in the British Empire.
To celebrate this “birthday” the Historical Society has planned a Symposium, which will also feature a discussion on the ongoing place and need for dissent in church and society today. The Symposium on the place of ‘Dissent in Church and Society – then and now’ will be held on Friday 24 August at 7.30pm in the Uniting College Chapel of Reconciliation at Adelaide College of Divinity.
Rev Dr Jonathan Barker is secretary of the Uniting Church Historical Society. He has ministered in SA, WA, NSW, the NT and more recently in the ACT. His particular concern as a Deacon is the future shape of the church in its engagement within the wider Australian society, his doctoral thesis being on the theology and practice of social transformation.
Uniting voices for change Kerry Enright, National Director, UnitingWorld Recently, twelve women from across the Pacific gathered together to share talanoa - stories. In a workshop organised by UnitingWorld, we met with these women, valuing their experiences and listening to what they had to say.
The Uniting Church does not see people as “helpless” or “desperate”. We recognise that people have dignity and strength. We know they have inherent rights and something to say. Impelled by the Gospel, we stand with our overseas partners, supporting their work in addressing systems that perpetuate poverty and violate human rights. We come alongside them as they effectively minister to their communities. We listen to their voices.
This emphasis on partnership underpins our relief and development model. The Relief and Development Unit of UnitingWorld works with partner churches and their extensive networks on the ground as they meet the needs of people living in poverty and promote their full involvement in all aspects of social, cultural and political life. One of the reasons this approach works is that it focuses on the experiences and rights of the people concerned and is largely driven from within communities themselves We are not alone in this approach. Community development, which focuses on the experiences and rights of the people it seeks to benefit and the transformation of systems that ensnare people in poverty, transforms lives. It is good aid and it makes a difference.
Even at the government level, action has been taken to make aid more transparent and even more effective. This is resulting in improved living conditions and life changing transformation. Of course, the provision of aid needs to be part of a broader strategy to improve overall living conditions and respect human rights. In the case of emerging African nations, stable democratic and accountable governments, as well as broad economic growth, have been important. Aid in isolation is not “the solution”. The concept of partnership is also central to the other ways the Uniting Church in Australia, through the UnitingWorld Church Connections Unit, engages with overseas partners. By sending and receiving personnel, connecting Australian communities in meaningful, international relationship and supporting the local ministries of our overseas partners, we share and learn together. In recent weeks, we gathered in communion with our overseas partners at the 13th Assembly. As with our Pacific sisters, this provided us opportunity to share stories, to hear the voices of people who know what it is like to live at the margins. Their presence at the Assembly reminded us that our identity can never be complete without our sisters and brothers from other churches throughout the world, some of whom share with us a rich history stretching back 100 years.
UnitingWorld National Director Kerry Enright with Pastor Berlin Guerrero, Philippines.
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Church Partners for life
They spoke of teenagers who are turning to substance abuse, of their earnest desire to find a way to combat the rising tide that flows around their homes, of their patient industry with woven baskets, of the silent epidemic of violence in their homes. They spoke about leadership – and what it might mean to find a voice loud enough to bring about change.
Within the Uniting Church, UnitingWorld is commissioned to share our partners’ journeys. As an agency, our mission is to connect people and church communities in Australia, the Pacific, Asia and Africa to partner in God’s mission. We build partnerships between Uniting Church people and churches overseas.
Shouting together
Church Partners for life
In a fast-paced landscape of new media endeavours, modern advertising is pushing as many buttons as it is boundaries. Here Louise Heinrich highlights the passion of Collective Shout, a community group dedicated to letting advertisers know when they go beyond the push of sales and into the sale of sexuality. At the heart of Christian belief is a desire for justice–an unshakeable conviction that all people are entitled to live a full life, free from oppression. Often, justice is the foundation for community organisations which unite people from all faiths (or no faith) to work towards building a better world. Collective Shout is one of these organisations. At a grassroots level, its members protest against advertising and media agencies and brands that use sexualised images of girls and women to sell products. “Ever feel like you’re living in a giant porn theme park?” blogs author and co-founder of Collective Shout, Melinda Tankard Reist. “Billboards dominate space with hyper-sexualised messages. Buses are painted with semi-naked women... porn mags next to the lollies at the petrol station counter, t-shirts in
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youth surf shops depicting S&M and Playboy bunnies on everything from girls’ jewellery to doona covers.” While denominations have no bearing in this group - all participants regardless of gender or religion are passionate about working together for a better, less-sexualised world – Dan Anear and Nicole Jameson represent a percentage of Collective Shout members who belong to faith-based communities. The pair aptly demonstrates the partnership that can be enjoyed across denominations through interacting in open community organisations. Dan works in counselling survivors of sexual abuse and can attest to the devastating impact of overt- sexualisation on peoples’ lives. Dan, a member of CitySoul with his wife Caitlin, views his participation in Collective Shout as somewhat of a preventative measure.
“I’m personally involved because I’m appalled by how complacent we have become to the objectification of women as a society,” Dan states firmly. “Through billboards, internet and television, men and women have more sexual stimulation than ever before. It’s no wonder sex crimes are on the rise. “Collective Shout do a great job bringing these issues out from under the rug. They cause people to think about what they believe while, simultaneously, holding corporations accountable for their actions.” Nicole became aware of unequivocal suffering experienced by women and children around the world whilst completing her Masters in International Public Health. “I realised that I really wanted to be a part of interpreting and changing the factors which lead to women and children
being exploited and voiceless, damaged and discarded,” says Nicole, who attends Holy Trinity Anglican Church with her husband, Pete, and their two young children. “When I first came across the work of Melinda Tankard Reist and the Collective Shout movement it spoke to everything I had been thinking and feeling for so long, and has since provided me with an avenue to speak out against exploitation of women and girls.” Created for anyone concerned with the way the media presents “distorted and dishonest ideas about women and girls, sexuality and relationships”, Collective Shout mobilises volunteers via a strong online presence.
For more information, head online to collectiveshout.org
The not-so-sexy breakdown Sex sells. We’ve known this for years. But how has the proliferation of sexualised images affected our society? The Australia Institute’s 2006 report Letting Children be Children: Stopping the sexualisation of children in Australia noted an increasing trend of children hospitalised with eating disorders, claiming that, “the capacity of children to develop healthy body image and self-esteem is compromised by pressure to look like miniature adults.” Similarly, the American Psychological Association (APA), in Taskforce on the Sexualisation of Girls, details how frequent exposure to sexualisation affects the reality of sexual expectations in both men and women and can be linked with “three of the most common mental problems of girls and women: eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression or depressed mood.”
Church Partners for life
“People join Collective Shout because they recognise that there is a growing problem with the sexualisation of children and objectification of women,” says Melinda Liszewski, Brisbane-based Collective Shout campaigner and web administrator.
Methods of protesting range from making a formal complaint to the Advertising Standards Bureau, emailing the advertising companies and personal boycotting to signing petitions to provoke politicians. “Collective Shout members recognise that there is strength in numbers,” continues Melinda L. Previously they may have thought they were the only ones who saw a problem with particular cultural trends; they now know that there are thousands more who feel the same way. “Members are responsible for keeping this movement alive. It is because of those who make their voices heard and take action in their local communities that we have been able to make such an impact.” Melinda L acknowledges that justice unites those who join Collective Shout. “The common thread is a desire to see women and girls treated respectfully and equally.”
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Four virtues—nothing in life is more precious than these Four Cardinal Virtues
It seems there are many among the Christian community who are rethinking the language we use for telling the story of our relationship with God in Christ. But while such rethinking is about connecting our church-speak with the communication media of everyday folk, this book resurrects language that has already gone from our modern world. Of the four key words at the heart of this study series, I imagine two are unfamiliar to most. Justice and courage we have no problem with. But regarding the concepts of prudence and temperance, I hope people are intrigued rather than put off. These habits for life lived well are each a cardinal virtue—an innate human capacity to develop behaviour that enables us to do good and live well.
Author: Ian Price
This book seems to suit an articulate and well-educated demographic. The studies’ movement - from experience, to reflection, to action - affirms what people bring to the study with them. It creates space in which to explore and challenges us to keep moving forward with practices for healthy living.
Recommended for: Christian small groups seeking deep conversation about living purposefully In short: A study resurrecting the concept of virtues to develop habits for doing good and living well.
Questions are open and invite deep engagement with the Bible, the world and ourselves; thankfully, they do not lead to predetermined answers. I wondered if it would be helpful for individuals to work through the questions between group sessions to appreciate the breadth of the studies, concentrating on a part of each virtue together to gain the depth offered.
Available from: MediaCom Education
- Sarah Agnew
RRP: $10.00
Book: Captured by a Better Vision: Living Porn-free Author: Tim Chester Recommended for: Christians struggling against pornography In short: What porn is, does, and how to escape its grip by God’s grace. Available from: online bookstores RRP: $21.00
Book: The Language of Genetics: an Introduction Author: Denis R. Alexander Recommended for: Those who have some background in science and an interest in the theory of evolution. In short: Scholarly exploration of the history and morals behind genetic engineering. Available from: online bookstores
Chester’s research suggests 50% of Christian men and 20% of Christian women are struggling with pornography right now. If these statistics are accurate, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. With access to suggestive images readily accessible by the internet, lewd music video-clips, late-night films or even basic Myer catalogues, it seems we have nowhere safe to look.
When I opened this book at random and read “The specialized prestin found in echolocating mammals provides…” I wondered about the lot of a book reviewer. Even though I got an A in Matric biology, this was not an easy read. However, I dutifully read it from beginning to end and managed to find some gems amongst the technical stuff.
Many are leaving the Church because of personal conflicts with what happens in the company of their laptops at night, compared with how they are expected to act in their congregation on Sundays.
reviews
Finding life’s purpose in genetics
Spiritual Cancer
Chester recommends avoidance, by setting up internet filters, as well as accountability through finding mates and becoming real. Assurance of God’s grace is the greatest help to people suffering in loneliness, bound by the false promises of titillation on demand. The book is clear that, while struggle is overwhelming, God offers hope through a better vision: Jesus Christ. As Paul said, focus on what is right, pure, true and lovely and fill your mind with that so that what is false, perverting, sickening and habit-forming is pushed aside. - Damien Tann
RRP: $31.95
This book claims to be an introduction but is very thorough, giving a history of scientific thinking behind genetics as it evolved from the earliest Greek philosophers onwards. It includes sections on the genetics of human evolution, the basis of disease
and engineering of the human genome. Later chapters then explore the big questions of life, regarding the suffering behind genetics and the purpose of life. The Language of Genetics: an Introduction will not appeal to everyone, but I think my scientifically inclined sonin-law will enjoy it. Even a layperson would benefit from moral questions raised in the conclusion, without needing to understand intricacies of the science. Though challenging, this book is worth pursuing. - Glenys Badger
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RELIGIOUS PRACTICE AND COMMUNITY IN A SECULAR AGE: Contemplation and Meditation. A PCNet SA four week study series presented by Jonathan Barker. Thursdays 9, 16, 23 & 30 August 7.30pm-9.30pm. Effective Living Centre (26 King William Road, Wayville). Cost $10. Bookings phone: 82710329 Mon, Wed, Fri 10am-3pm, or email office@effectiveliving.org, or visit www.pcnetsa.org. JUMP INTO SPRING FAIR will be held at the Western Link Uniting Church, (93 Crittenden Road, Findon) on Saturday 25 August from 9am-1pm. Trading tables, Devonshire morning tea and sausage sizzle provided. Free entry. Table hire available. Enquiries 8445 2332 (Church Office), or 8443 8145 (Pam Marshman) or email wlink1@internode.on.net.
diary and letters to ed
SUNSET ROCK ANNIVERSARY. It has been 25 years since Sunset Rock Uniting Church was formed and we are celebrating with an Anniversary Service, lunch and more. All former members are invited to share in its history and hear about the future God is slowly revealing. It is on Sunday 26 August at 9.30am, (40 Spencer Street, Stirling). RSVP to Marty & Naomi Rosenberg, on 08 83709361 or enquiries@sunsetrock. unitingchurchsa.org.au INTERFAITH SEPTEMBER is an initiative of the Assembly Working Group on Relations with Other Faiths. During the month, congregations are encouraged to create a community of hospitality, conversation and friendship with people of all faiths throughout their neighbourhood. You are warmly invited to explore and celebrate the presence of diversity through our Interfaith September Resources (http://www.assembly.uca.org. au/rof/resources/int-sep).
FRONTIER SERVICES AND ITS PREDECESSORS STAFF REUNION DINNER. If you have ever worked for Frontier Services, AIM, Methodist Inland Mission, or Congregational Inland Mission, why not join our current staff, Board members and guests for a dinner to catch-up and reminisce about times past! An informal BBQ dinner will be held at The Geelong College (Talbot St, Newtown VIC 3220), on Thursday 27 September 2012. All former staff members are invited to join us from 5.30pm-9pm to renew old acquaintances and meet new friends. To assist us with numbers for catering please RSVP to Kate Higginbotham, email kate.h@frontierservices. org or phone 1300 787 247. UNITING CHURCH STAMP GROUP (KNOWN AS SALLY STAMP) sells stamps in aid of Mission and to fund shipments of used school books to countries via South Pacific School Aid Inc. We encourage members to save their stamps for this cause. Any unwanted collections are gratefully received. We also encourage people to approach businesses in their area to save envelopes. Stamps may be left at reception, Uniting Church Office, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide for Maxine Haines—Stamp Convenor.
HYMN FEST will be held on Sunday 23 September at 2.00pm at the Corner Uniting Church which is situated at the junction of Diagonal and Oaklands Roads, Warradale. For more information phone Mavis Thomas 8377 1926.
To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary’ in the subject line.
STOP THE INHUMANITY
TRUTH AND REALITY
The Church distinguishes itself from “the world” but increasingly I wonder by what? I'm proud of the social justice actions of the Uniting Church and others but some Christians are complacent and have opinions which seem racist, or ignorance, based. There are Christian politicians and yet both main parties have inhumane policies for asylum seekers and try to outdo each other with regimes that to succeed in “stopping the boats” must be worse than what the refugees already suffer. It seems that it is people of “the world”, not Christian politicians nor the Christian population, who promote practical, compassionate solutions involving direct action to give refugees hope of resettlement before resorting to a dangerous boat trip to Australia. I hope that the eminent people selected by our Prime Minister make compassionate, practical proposals and all Australians actively support their adoption. A. Nield, Whyalla Norrie
I write in response to the letter from T Price (June New Times) re PCNetSA. There is a plethora of opportunity around in our multimedia age to debate faith and theology - outside the Christian Church. The ABC Religious Programmes are a good place to start and who among us doesn't rethink our faith when challenged by atheists such as R. Dawkins or the late C. Hitchens. However I question the point of challenging 'long held beliefs' from within the Church. Most of us attend church for worship and to affirm those 2000 year old beliefs. Our faith in Jesus takes on a deeper and richer meaning if applied in the maelstrom of life. Lets ‘progress' by going spiritually deeper into faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is still much to be said about testing, trying and applying the 'Good News' - relevant to us all through the ages past and today. J. Mugford, Kidman Park
Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or PO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.
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FRONTIER SERVICES OFFICIAL CENTENARY CELEBRATION to mark 100 years since the establishment of the Australian Inland Mission, and the continuing work of Frontier Services will be held on 26 September 2012, at the Dallas Brooks Centre (300 Albert St, East Melbourne VIC 3002). Frontier Services staff, Board Members and guests will be travelling from all over Australia and we invite each and every one of you to join us. The evening will run from 7pm-10.30pm, and consist of a special Centenary liturgy, including commemorative songs and worship, followed by supper. Visit our events page at www.frontierservices.org/centenary for more information. To assist us with numbers for catering please RSVP to Kate Higginbotham, email kate.h@frontierservices.org or phone 1300 787 247.
Be topical, be brief, be timely. Letters over 150 words will be edited; responses to previous letters /articles will be considered within two months of the original item’s publication only. All letters are published at the editorial team’s discretion.
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