July 2007
Issue 26, Number 6
PP 565 001/00190 ISSN 0726-2612
Church’s bright future This year Parkin-Wesley Theological College has 28 candidates studying for specified ministries. New Times spoke to four of the candidates – Benji Callen, Sarah Agnew, Tim Hein and Andrew Robertson - about how and why they decided to study ministry. While some might argue that science and religion are diametrically opposed, ministry candidate Benji Callen had little trouble switching from one to the other. Benji had a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Adelaide and was working as a postdoctoral researcher in Nanotechnology at the University of Liverpool in the UK when he felt called to full time ministry. “I decided to work hard to achieve and enjoy my research and then see if I still felt called to ministry – and that proved to be the case,” said Benji. “I returned to Australia and became the youth pastor at Malvern Uniting Church and since then I’ve felt a lot more satisfied with my life. The restlessness is gone. “I’m really enjoying the learning and taking the time to understand theology and ministry. “Previously I spent a lot of time finding out about micro-organisms, which are great, but not much time learning about something that’s far more important to me.” Benji attempts to balance his studies and youth ministry work while raising a two year old son with his wife Nichole. He is optimistic about the Uniting Church’s future in South Australia. “I see the church now as a church of resurrection. It has gone through a decline but if we believe in a God that brings Jesus back to life, who resurrects things, then new life is going to come out of this new church, so it’s a really exciting place to be. “And to be a part of that, to be one of the ministers shaping the future, is a tremendous opportunity.”
Ministry students (from left) Benji Callen, Sarah Agnew and Andrew Robertson are an indication that the church has a bright future. Sarah Agnew had reached a crossroads in her life. After two stints at university (BA and Honours in English), jobs in the Synod youth office, bookstores and publishing and then not receiving a scholarship to undertake a PhD in Shakespeare, she decided to take a year off and enter a Period of Discernment. “I was clear about a call to a creative vocation, but had no idea how that would take shape, so I thought I’d listen to God’s ideas,” said Sarah. “Through that year, as I learned more about ordained ministry, I began to feel that was where I was being called.” A mentor helped her during the discerning process and also encouraged her during the development of Black Wood Jazz,
an alternative style of worship at Blackwood Uniting Church. Sarah is enjoying the journey with the other ministry candidates and believes taking the journey with others is the most rewarding aspect. “I am passionate about the different ways we can be the church and be in the community, encouraging people to explore and express their faith authentically. “I guess that’s part of the challenge - there aren’t many people to take up positions in ordained ministry and there is some relationship building to be done between the church and the wider community, if we are to have a role to play in the spirituality of our communities.”
inside… Church’s bright future Woodville Gardens grows
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Pastoral visitor training
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Paper Tracker project
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What’s Earth
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Youth read Bible
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Thailand experience
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Birthday celebrations
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Continued on page 2.
Please hand out at your church door
NEWS
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New Times
Church’s bright future
Uniting Church in Australia
QUEENSLAND SYNOD
GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE SYNOD (Full time; 5 year initial contract)
The General Secretary’s position is a significant leadership role for a Church facing a challenging context. Working with other key leaders, this important position will focus on strategically facilitating the Queensland Synod’s capacity for mission and ministry in partnership with Presbyteries Congregations and Agencies. The position will also co-ordinate the oversight and development of the Synod staff team. The successful applicant (lay or ordained) will be a member of the Uniting Church in Australia with a commitment to, and understanding of, the mission and ethos of the Uniting Church. She/he will have extensive experience in the management of large organisations and/or complex systems, a comprehensive understanding of Church governance and have demonstrated exceptional leadership, team building, and strategic planning skills that concentrate on delivering quality service provision that will energise a complex organisation. The Synod is seeking applicants who have: • Demonstrated working knowledge of the Church and the polity of the Church, • Demonstrated capacity to think strategically and to facilitate strategic discussions within complex organisations, preferably in the context of the Church, • Demonstrated disciplined thinking, decision making and problem solving on complex organisational issues, in particular change management and quality service delivery, • Demonstrated ability to implement key organisational resolutions, decisions and strategies within financial and time constraints coupled with compassion, • Demonstrated capacity to provide strong leadership on issues confronting the Church in its ministry and mission within the current social context, • Demonstrated team leadership, negotiation, conflict management, pastoral care and written and oral communication skills, including the ability to deal with the wide range of stakeholders associated with the Church and sensitive/confidential issues. This position will be based in Brisbane, with travel throughout Queensland and interstate as required. An information pack is available via the website (http://www.ucaqld.com.au/career.php) or by contacting Ana Mila (07) 3377 9709 or ana.mila@ucaqld.com.au Applications close Tuesday, 31 July 2007.
Ministry student Tim Hein who is studying at Parkin-Wesley Theological College. From page 1.
and experience of the church.
For the past two and a half years Tim Hein has been young adults’ pastor at Hope Valley Uniting Church. He resigned recently to discern God’s next call on his life.
“When I look back on it, I see all these times when God has been present in my life, even before I started attending church. It’s just highlighted in my life the whole idea that God is active in this world now.
Tim is studying ministry part-time and is a candidate for ordination. “I felt God calling me to this place in the church - and I am keen to follow that call, wherever it may lead me. “I deeply appreciate the space and freedom within the Uniting Church to be authentic and to be yourself. “Having come from a diverse ministry and church heritage, God’s call has challenged my paradigms, but also affirmed who he has made me. For some strange reason he has invited me to be part of his plan for this world. “The fact that he invites us all to mission is miraculous indeed. Becoming ordained is acknowledging a certain role within that mission.
“A significant factor in coming to this decision has been the advice and wisdom of mentors, especially Rev Dr Graham Humphris (Uniting Church SA General Secretary) over the last 14 or 15 months.
A hunger for learning and knowledge has made study both rewarding and enjoyable for Tim.
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“I love reading, and I love learning. I enjoy ploughing through dynamic theology as well as good stuff on church ministry and mission. I’m very interested in learning from people who have actually been fruitful. Andrew Robertson’s road to ministry is a little different to some of the other ministry candidates. In fact Andrew never attended church before he was thirty; he was busy travelling the world competing in triathlons. “I was struggling with the feeling of being called to be a church minister before I even knew God,” he said. “But when I walked into church and I started going to church, I just wanted more knowledge
“I went through the Period of Discernment to work things out. Not knowing where it was going to take me made it quite a challenging experience. “Now instead of racing off to compete around the world, I get a sense of peace and comfort from doing what I’m supposed to be doing, and I really enjoy that.”
What’s a candidate Ministry candidates are people who have felt a call to serve in a particular kind of ministry within the Uniting Church. They have all been through a PoD (Period of Discernment) and have also had their call endorsed by a church panel. Parkin-Wesley College principal Rev Dr Andrew Dutney says the PoD is not only for people considering ordained ministry as a career. “A lot of people undertake a Period of Discernment and never intend to apply for a candidacy ... they do it for themselves,” he said. Andrew sees his role as a ‘facilitator’, helping people respond to God’s call. “The call is always in two parts. There is the individual experiencing God’s call, and that individual is also involved in a bigger call, which is God’s call to the church. “My role is to help candidates to be true to their personal call and appropriately equip them for the church’s call.” The Presbytery has a new Preparation for Ministry team that oversees the PoD and progress of ministry candidates. Rev Rebecca Purling convenes this group. People interested in a PoD should first speak to their minister and then call Rebecca on 8342 1583.
NEWS
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Renewal at Woodville Gardens Woodville Gardens Uniting Church in Adelaide’s north western suburbs is experiencing a dramatic renewal. Minister Rev Kaye Colliver has realised in retrospect that the previously dwindling congregation’s turnaround has occurred as they have inadvertently implemented the Six Key Directions in the Uniting Church SA’s Strategic Plan. Growth has occurred so quickly Kaye jokes that their profile from last November’s National Church Life Survey is basically irrelevant. “We had only about eight people who were eligible to participate in the NCLS,” said Kaye. “That’s all changed! “At the moment we have between 25 and 30 people attending Sunday morning worship. “I recently asked the newcomers to stand up in church, to make the point. Out of 30 people, only four had been here more than 18 months – basically everyone’s a newcomer.” A lot of growth has sprung from the Sunday evening ‘Kids’ Church’ which is now held twice a month with up to 60 people attending. Kids’ Church is multicultural, reflecting the surrounding community – with Aboriginal and Sudanese families attending and others from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ethiopia and India. Woodville Gardens UC (which is a joint congregation with Croydon Park) is situated in the heart of the Westwood urban renewal project; and the congregations are working hard
to connect with people in the developing suburb. After analysing the congregation’s renewal, Kaye was amazed to find how closely it aligned with the Strategic Plan’s Six Key Directions. “We’ve developed a culture of conversion growth (Key Direction 1) by making connections with the unchurched in our community through an Op Shop, Kids’ Church, craft group, community garden and Alpha courses. “We’re also developing leaders (Key Direction 2) by attending church workshops and training days and encouraging our young people to go to KCO and SAYCO. Leadership development is also a key aim of our Junior Youth Group. “Many of our families can’t afford to send their children to camps, but fortunately the elderly church members at Croydon Park have dug deep to send the children. “We’ve been developing disciples (Key Direction 3) through encouraging lay people and young people to lead worship and through running Alpha and other study groups.” The congregation is also busy developing fresh expressions of church relevant to their community (Key Direction 4). Kid’s Church is the major new expression and the Op Shop has become a place where refugee and Indigenous families are offered coffee and support as well as clothing and household goods. Kaye describes it as “a really practical expression of the church at work”. The congregation is now working in conjunction with
Woodville Gardens Minister Rev Kaye Colliver surrounded by children from the Sunday night “Kid’s Church”. the Westwood Developers to build a community garden on the large block of land surrounding the church. The garden plans include a shade house, a prayer garden, a pergola-covered play area, fruit and vegetable plots, a native garden, composting areas and rainwater tanks. A major effort has also gone into raising the church’s profile (Key Direction 5). “We have displays at Westwood community gatherings; I’ve contributed articles to the new Westwood newspaper and we put large banners on the church to promote Kids’ Church, Alpha and the community garden,” said Kaye. “One of the best things I’ve done was to buy a digital camera. I take photos of everything and display the
laminated photos in both the Woodville Gardens and Croydon Park churches. “This allows people to see what’s happening – they get excited and want to help.” The congregation has also been actively and passionately seeking God’s Justice (Key Direction 6). They have strong links to the UAICC and are supporting refugees and other economically disadvantaged families through the Op Shop and by sending children to church camps. Woodville Gardens Church council chairperson Ian Dempster said belonging to the
Community Outreach Mission Network was another positive factor. “It’s been really exciting hearing the fantastic ideas and stories that are happening in other congregations,” Ian said. “And we felt really supported when network members came to hear about our Kids’ Church and saw the children lead worship. “Fifteen months ago I really wondered if our church had a future – now I know there’s something very special happening here.”
Openbook Howden Design & Printing
Sales Executive . Career opportunity . Energetic team environment Openbook Howden is proud of our ability to consistently provide outstanding products for our clients. Our commitment to customer service and product excellence, as well as design and printing solutions, is unequalled in the marketplace. We are now seeking a Sales Executive to expand our market presence. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to gain a solid foundation in the printing industry and a career path in sales. Primarily responsible for managing existing clients and building long-term relationships with them, you will also develop new business, particularly within schools and the wider education market. Some sales experience is essential and will need to be demonstrated. Knowledge of the printing industry is not essential, but would be an advantage. You will be passionate about customer service and prepared to work as part of a dedicated team, all sharing a common goal. You will have solid networks, preferably in the education sector and will be confident in liaising at all levels. Your sales territory will also include interstate clients. In return, you will be rewarded with a competitive remuneration package, sound induction and further education and training. It will also provide you with a great career path and the opportunity to work for an organisation that offers a fantastic support network to enable budgets and targets to be met and to encourage maximum results and job satisfaction. Please send your application to: The Sales Manager Openbook / Howden Design and Printing GPO Box 1368, Adelaide SA 5001 Telephone enquiries to Greg Hassold on 08 8124 0071 Applications close Friday, 20 July 2007.
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NEWS
New wing for Old Timers FRONTIER SERVICES opened a new wing at its Old Timers Village aged care service at Alice Springs in May, completing a $3.5m extension and improvement program. The Old Timers Village now offers 68 nursing beds, 43 independent living cottages, a hostel for residents requiring lowlevel care and a day therapy centre. Frontier Services Board chairperson Jan Trengove officially opened the new Nancy Lamb wing. The wing was named after a long-time resident and tireless supporter. It provides single and double-room accommodation for an additional 20 people and includes special facilities for residents with dementia. The wing was added to meet increasing demand for nursing home places and the first residents were due to move in last month. Frontier Services will recruit additional nurses and carers to staff the new wing. The existing Marion McGeough wing was also extensively upgraded as part of the building program. The building program was funded by the Australian Government. The Old Timers Village dates back to 1949 and was part of Rev John Flynn’s wide-ranging vision. – Trevor Dalziell
From left, Pastoral Pathways project officer Dianna Bartlett with ACHA Health chaplain Sharonne Price.
Caring for others ANYONE WHO feels they may have a gift for caring for others is being encouraged to consider training to become a pastoral visitor. The Uniting Foundation has recently granted $70,000 over two years to a Pastoral Pathways project. The project aims to recruit and train pastoral visitors in Uniting Church agencies and congregations. ACHA Health chaplain Sharonne Price said the project will focus on equipping people for pastoral visiting in the chaplaincy environment and will also offer opportunities to congregational-based carers. “At the moment our chaplains face many challenges as they try to encourage and support the many volunteers who assist with pastoral care,” said Sharonne. “The workload of chaplains is growing. Most
do not have the time or the expertise to develop training programmes or recruitment strategies. “This project will encourage new people to get involved in the rewarding mission of pastoral visiting and also provide a uniform training program as well as continuing education and support. “We’re looking for people who can provide companionship and caring conversation.” Dianna Bartlett has been appointed Pastoral Pathways project officer. She will consult with partner agencies, chaplains and congregations, while developing and supervising the training programme. Anyone interested in becoming a pastoral visitor should contact Dianna at the Presbytery and Synod office on 8227 0822 or email pathways@sa.uca.org.au.
Courses in aged care PARKIN-WESLEY College and the Adelaide College of Divinity are offering new ministry topics in aged care which may be taken individually or as part of a Certificate IV in Ministry. The initiative is specifically designed to help volunteers and others develop the pastoral visitation and worship leadership skills appropriate to aged care settings. In addition these courses provide an opportunity for meeting the continuing education or professional development requirements that some aged care agencies expect. The new topics give people an opportunity to think about God, the Bible and their own faith and how their understanding may relate to ministry with aged people. Some of the topics on offer are: •Orientation to Aged Care Ministry •Challenges and Processes at the End of Life •Worship and Preaching in the Aged Care Setting •Pastoral Care Issues in Aged Care Settings •Plus other related biblical and theological topics. Enrolments are invited from anyone looking for continuing education opportunities or just interested in studying for the first time. Topics emphasise skills development and integrating faith and practice in ministry. For more information contact ParkinWesley College on 8416 8427.
Church rejects PM’s comments THE UNITING Church is dismayed at Prime Minister John Howard’s comments that migrants and refugees with leprosy and HIV/AIDS should not be allowed into Australia. Rev Elenie Poulos, National Director of UnitingJustice Australia said the Christian church is founded on the words and actions of Jesus who reached out to those with leprosy and other diseases. “We believe that, as a society, we are long past stigmatising people with leprosy and HIV/AIDS,” she said. “We are concerned that these comments will incite unnecessary fear in the community.”
Copy for August issue closes Wednesday July 11 JULY 2007
NEWS
New Times
Insurance Agency is on the move
THE UNITING CHURCH Insurance Agency has entered into an agreement with Donnelly Insurance Brokers, which will see personal insurance clients transferred to a newly created division of Donnellys. The change will affect approximately 600 agency clients who will be transferred to Church Communities Insurance Services (CCIS) from July 2. Uniting Church SA Property and Insurance Services manager Dennis Wright said the change will ultimately provide clients with a broader range of products and services. “We are keen to see CCIS grow because this business will continue to provide financial support to the Uniting Church SA.” All Uniting Church Synod assets and liabilities will continue to be protected by the Uniting Church Insurance Services’ program.
Athelstone’s covenant
ATHELSTONE UNITING Church chose Reconciliation Week last month to confirm their Covenanting commitment with Indigenous people. In March last year the Presbytery of South Australia decided to encourage congregations to display covenanting symbols and to also acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land. Early this year Athelstone Uniting Church Council invited Uniting Church SA covenanting coordinator Peter Russell to speak on the topic “What’s Covenanting About?” Council responded to Peter’s presentation by recommending that the congregation produce a statement acknowledging and supporting the Covenant. During morning worship on Sunday May 27, (the beginning of Reconciliation Week), council chairperson Jeff Dry and retired Minister in Association Rev Brian Ball shared the message relating to the Covenanting symbols. Following the service a framed certificate was hung in the church foyer as a reminder of the need to acknowledge and pray for the ongoing process of reconciliation. - Jeff Dry
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Tracking the issues A NEW PROJECT launched by UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide will help Aboriginal people living in remote South Australian communities to keep track of government promises made to them.
“The Anangu Lands Paper Tracker” will record government commitments to remote Indigenous communities and monitor the roll-out of specific programs and services. The focus of the project is Anangu communities (where Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people live). This includes Oak Valley, Umoona, Yalata and all of the communities on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands (APY Lands). Project spokesperson Jonathan Nicholls said the Paper Tracker will make it easier for Anangu to make informed decisions and to deal with governments on an equal footing. “Anangu have endured decades of poorly planned and poorly delivered services – we hope the Paper Tracker will support their efforts to have appropriate services delivered on time.” UCW Adelaide minister Rev Peter McDonald, chairperson Ms Julie Redman and Jonathan recently spent a week on the
UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide Minister Rev Peter McDonald with Jonathan Nicholls who is tracking government promises to remote Aboriginal communities through the “Anangu Lands Paper Tracker” project. APY Lands talking with Anangu about the project. Those discussions highlighted a number of strong community concerns, including the delivery of disability services and the need for police to spend more time in communities. A website is a key component of the project – it will track
promises and publish accurate, up-to-date information on government programs and services. The site: www. papertracker.com.au will be live at the end of the month. The project is a strategic extension of the agency’s social justice and advocacy work with Aboriginal people.
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New Times
What on earth is Earth?
Keren DeBoo
Earth is a networking group for young adults in the Uniting Church SA who are interested in social justice issues and putting their faith into action. Deanna Howland was recently appointed Earth’s new project officer and is looking forward to the challenges the position will offer. “When this job came up, I thought, wow, I could do that - it’s something I’m passionate about,” said Deanna. “As a young adult I know that it’s sometimes hard to be in the church at this age when you’re trying to find out about faith and work through issues. “This is a really exciting opportunity to work with people my age, to talk about faith and God and things I’m passionate about.” “One of our aims is to encourage young adults in their faith and look at the impact it has on their lives
and the things happening in the world. “We like to encourage young adults to be actively involved in mission in their church, in the wider community and to be involved in social justice issues.” Apart from organising social networking events, Earth also runs “Ye Olde Book Club” which meets every six to eight weeks. “At the moment we’re reading “Time for Change” edited by Tim Wright. It’s a collection of 12 essays written by prominent Australians on issues like refugees, family law and the environment. “Next we’re going to read “How (Not) to speak of God” by Peter Rollins who spoke at NCYC.” Earth’s main annual event is the “Leadership for Life” weekend, which will be held at the end of this month at the Nunyara Conference Centre. Keynote speaker will be
Deanna Howland is the new project officer for Earth – a network for young adults in the Uniting Church SA. Victorian Health Minister Bronwyn Pike and Bible studies will be lead by Rev Dr Andrew Dutney, principal of Parkin-Wesley College. This year there will also be a “Mission Immersion”,
similar to what happened at NCYC, where small groups will go to different areas around Adelaide to look at mission in local communities. For more information about Earth or to register
for “Leadership for Life”, visit: www.rosefield.org. au/earth or call Deanna on 8271 9528 or 0427 042 932 or email her at earth@ rosefield.org.au.
© Copyright 2007 Edi Leane. Artwork not to be reproduced in any way without the written permission by Edi Leane of Joie Creative. All Rights Reserved.
To advertise in New Times: Contact Russell Baker phone 8361 6822 fax 8361 6833 email ribad@bigpond.com
JULY 2007
New Times
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Young encouraged to read Bible YOUNG PEOPLE are reading the Bible – 13 year old Miriam Crosby from Adelaide West Uniting Church is proof of that. Miriam tries to read the Bible every day and often studies Bible verses while waiting to catch the bus to Adelaide High School in the mornings. Miriam and 23 other young South Australians are encouraging local high school students to read the Bible this month, through a joint Bible Society and Scripture Union project called “Twentyfour”. “Twentyfour” focuses on the 24 Chapters of Luke and involves 24 young people who each read a chapter of the book and share the impact it has on them. At least nine of those young people belong to local Uniting Church congregations. Adrian Blenkinsop, who heads Bible Society SA’s Youth Ministry section, said “Twentyfour” provides three core resources. “There is a daily journal containing the 24 Chapters of Luke, with reflections and questions,” he said. “There is also a DVD showing young people reading Luke and answering questions about it, their faith and the Bible. “And there is a website www.bty.com.au where a young person reading a new Chapter of Luke will be posted each day in July. Young people are also being encouraged to participate in online discussions on the site.” Two thousand resource packs are available for youth throughout the State. Youth groups can register on-line at www.bty.com.au or by contacting Adrian on 8292 4888. Adrian said while the project runs during July, it is also possible to use the resources later in the year.
Miriam Crosby from Adelaide West Uniting Church is one of several Uniting Church young people involved in “Twentyfour” – a project designed to encourage high school students to read the Bible. Miriam reads the first Chapter of Luke on the “Twentyfour” website.
The awesome call of God AS THE ROOM began to fill up with people of all ages, you could sense the anticipation. Asking around, people were keen to hear something fresh, real and inspiring at Out of the Valley ‘07. As the band launched into a soaring version of U2’s “Where the streets have no name” the screens filled with images of young people and the names of every school in Australia. One thing soon became clear – this wasn’t just another event or conference. Sure, there would be teaching, and equipping. And with speakers including Bo Boshers from Willow Creek Community Church and Louie Giglio from the Passion Ministries, (currently exploding in colleges across the US), we were in for quality stuff from the best. But there was also a real sense that what was to unfold would be something that would open the hearts and spiritual eyes of those attending. There was such an immediate momentum and hunger – one could already see the echoes through the hundreds of churches and youth ministries represented from around Australia. A strong theme of the magnificent character of God emerged and of the great love given for all people. Each delegate soon felt part of a bigger team, a team intertwined in the missional work of the Gospel. With prayer for each other and for our schools and universities, those attending felt a real sense of being “The Church”. To feel such a strong sense of unity inspired both purpose and momentum – to see young people flourish in the love of God! But the true test of a ministry oriented conference isn’t so much what occurs over that short time period. It is in the years of ministry yet to come and is best articulated in seeing people become truly alive in Christ. The Uniting Church’s OOTV (Out of the Valley) ministries seek to inspire and equip generations of new leaders to rise to new levels of effectiveness and calling. This was evident in the enthusiasm of the delegates, the commitment of the volunteers, the anointing of the speakers, the honesty of the worship – and the vision of generations of people changed by the gospel. - Tim Hein
A session during “Out of the Valley ’07” - a conference designed to equip and empower young leaders. JULY 2007
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COMMENT
New Times
Jack Spong – the man and his message Controversial international theologian Bishop John Shelby Spong will visit Adelaide in August, as part of a national lecture tour following an international gathering of progressive theologians in Sydney. Rev Sean Gilbert from Christ Church, Wayville believes Bishop Spong deserves a respectful hearing. I WELL REMEMBER the first time I encountered John Shelby Spong. As a part of an airport welcoming committee in the July of 2001, I somehow landed a ride with ‘”Jack” across town to where he and his wife Christine were being billeted. With such a formidable reputation, striking up a conversation with him seemed an equally redoubtable task. I needn’t have worried. The retired bishop asked me a question or two about who I was and what I did, then asked more questions in light of my various responses. His interest was genuine, his warmth, totally disarming. I tell that story to underscore where I, at least, begin to evaluate the worth of a person’s words or force of argument; that being, in their being, or the way in which the Christian faith has shaped their character in relation to others and to the world around them. It is a critical litmus test for me; the fruit of graciousness of far more importance than myriads of persuasive words about all things ‘Christian’. The words of Jack Spong, however
contentious they are for some, are always related to how Christians are to behave in the Spirit of Christ. For at heart, his theology and reading of Scripture is no mere speculative exercise, nor is it an intellectual ‘sport’ to simply raise the ire of more conservative believers! Rather, it is always related to a vision of greater peace, inclusion and justice; a world (gospel) view that would have the Christian faith playing creative, thoughtful and inspiring roles in society, not defensive or frivolous ones. My own experience would suggest that the many people who have stopped attending church - by virtue of its lack of meaning for them - are still looking for credible frameworks of belief that would allow them to return and to contribute. These good and gifted folk, I would suggest, are as much a part of our mission – our evangelism – as is anyone else. And in this context, Jack Spong is no nemesis but potentially a great friend. He has an integrity of thought and practice that may be criticized from a distance yet cannot be so readily mocked from close quarters. Indeed, his message engages both heart and mind because at the centre of it, lies the challenge to follow in the compassionate and daring footsteps of Christ within the complex world of 2007 and beyond. For that reason alone, he is, I believe, worthy of a respectful and expectant hearing.
‘The ACC – it’s not a single issue group’ The national chair of the Assembly of Confessing Congregations (ACC) visited South Australia last month to explain the movement in more detail to interested church members. Rev Dr Max Champion addressed church meetings in Port Lincoln, Port Augusta, Balaklava, Keith and Adelaide. He said in South Australia 43 congregations and 200 individuals have joined the ACC and nationally the organisation has 115 member congregations and 1,000 individual members. Max said the ACC has networks or clusters in every state and is encouraging congregations to join. “In South Australia I hope our membership will increase by 50 per cent in the next 12 months and I am encouraged by what I hear around the State,” he said. The ACC is opposed to Resolution 84 and Resolution 108 from the last two UCA National Assemblies. “We are opposed to them as we believe the splendour of our creation is male and female and the unique dignity and sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman is a joyful expression of the Gospel and what is intended in Scripture,” he said. “At the same time we have a very strong statement of pastoral concern for people who find themselves in relationships with confused sexual identity; we also abhor any vilification or other mistreatment of people who find themselves in those relationships. “The ACC is a positive movement that reaffirms the reformed, orthodox and evangelical faiths of the Church, its beliefs and practices.
COMMON DREAMS Progressive Religion as a Transforming Agent You are invited to join Keynote Speakers
BISHOP JOHN SHELBY SPONG & REV STEPHANIE DOWRICK at a gathering of progressive religious and spiritual people from around Australia.
SYDNEY - 16th to 19th August, 2007
Bishop Spong will launch his new book Jesus for the Non-Religious on Thursday, 16th August, 7.30pm at the Pitt St Uniting Church, Sydney. He will also be speaking in Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane as part of a post-conference lecture tour.
Early Bird and Concessional Discounts available. For Program and Registration details:
www.commondreams.org.au or phone (02) 9267 3614 JULY 2007
“We believe these have been lost sight of in the life of our denomination and we are encouraging people to see that what we are doing is a positive thing in the life of our church. “We are also encouraging people to stay within the UCA; we are working within the UCA and we adhere to the Basis of Union.” The ACC believes that the question of homosexuality and leadership is a matter of doctrine, rather than process and that the issue still needs to be resolved. “Even if it is resolved in a manner that we don’t like, we believe the church must be honest and resolve it at a national level. This is still an outstanding issue for us.” Max said the ACC should not be viewed as a “single issue group” and was working to develop positive programs in many areas. The organisation has established six national commissions which will provide resources for church members. These commissions are: •Doctrine and Theology. •Discipleship and Evangelism. •Social Responsibility. •Ecumenical. •Networks Development. •Cross Cultural. The ACC has developed a Charter which can be found at www. confessingcongregations.asn.au.
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Thailand – an amazing experience Lynne Aird ONE WORD describes our time in Thailand – amazing! The Thai people are beautiful and we loved living with them, eating with them and sharing life with them for a short time. I’ve always wanted to serve God overseas, but this trip was initiated by my husband Craig. Craig was inspired by a friend in his men’s group at church who had taught English in Thailand with his wife and returned the following year for a further six weeks. Craig and I were part of a team of 11 sent by Aberfoyle Uniting Church to teach at the Zion Sai Mai Church English Summer Camp. The Zion Sai Mai Church was planted by the Zion Church in Bangkok two years ago and the church expresses God’s love by providing a low cost English Summer Camp for children with “native English speaking teachers”.
English Summer Camp was held at three different venues. Craig and I taught at a local Buddhist school and met the school president, vice president and a number of teachers. The English teacher was most encouraging and we developed a friendship that we hope will continue by email. Her written English was far better than her verbal English and we conversed with a writing pad and pen when we became “stuck”. The children we taught were lovely and we grew quite attached to them. We learnt some of their stories. They knew some English vocabulary but knew very little about using words in sentences and even less about pronunciation. They thought the phonetic alphabet was hilarious. We became quite precious about the pronunciation of ‘th’, ‘f’ and ‘r’, among other things. The children enjoyed singing
songs and playing games - particularly “Heads and Shoulders”, “Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree” and “Bingo”. It was such a privilege to serve God in this way. We enjoyed the teaching, the children, relating to Thais in the church, worshipping God in a Thai service, relating to nonChristian Thais, the Thai culture and, of course, the Thai food. We received far more than we gave. We found new friends and we’ve communicated with many since by email or msn. This trip was about teaching children and much, much more. It was about enabling opportunities for the local church to witness; it was about knowing Jesus and growing in him; it was about growing in our marriage as we served God in a different way together; it was about living and relating with the Thai people; it was about relationships; it was
Lynne and Craig Aird with some of the children they taught English in Thailand.
about learning from Christians Would we go again? from another culture; it was Absolutely! about our local church assisting another church in another • Lynne Aird is the Uniting country in its mission; it was Church SA’s deputy property about being an instrument for manager. God.
Unity Hill supports Mwandi Rev Rob Tann
CHURCH MEMBERS from the Uniting Church congregation at Unity Hill, Port Lincoln are actively supporting the mission centre for orphans and vulnerable children in Mwandi, Zambia managed by Port Lincoln woman Fiona “Fred” Dixon-Thompson. Businessman Paul Keys recently spent 12 weeks in Mwandi where he helped tile floors in the new village bakery and mission offices. He also trained some Mwandi residents so they could attend to future tiling needs. Cherie Yeates, the director
of the Port Lincoln Children’s Centre, has been volunteering in the Mwandi kindergarten that cares for the children and orphans of HIV-Aids parents. Esther Garner, a speech pathologist, has also been to Mwandi to assist some of the orphaned children with education and social problems. Last month Fiona’s father Robin Dixon-Thompson visited Mwandi for two weeks to install a permanent water supply to the village hospital. Robin works in the irrigation industry and used materials and pumps donated by Australian and American
churches to provide the hospital with a more reliable water supply from the Zambezi River. He is expected to return later to install a water tank, pump and generator which will help irrigate orchards and vegetable gardens. Meanwhile the Unity Hill congregation has been busy packing a shipping container of goods to support the project. Donated items include a generator, an ultra-sound
from Melbourne University Medical Campus, educational aids, bedding, clothing, kitchen cookers and sporting equipment. • A DVD called “7 Days in Zambia” is available that records a week in the life of Fiona Dixon-Thompson in Mwandi. The 55 minute DVD is being sold as a project fundraiser to help pay for the costs of sending the container. To order contact Leonie DixonThompson on (08) 8684-2065 or email: robwater@bigpond. com.au.
Honoured Spicer Uniting Church member Graham Lloyd has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Graham was recognised for his service to youth in the Uniting Church and also through the Scouting movement. He is supporting children and young people at Spicer Uniting Church presently and has also worked with children and youth at Morialta Uniting church.
www.wesleykenttown.com JULY 2007
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THE PRESBYTERY and Synod of South Australia will meet on July 27 and 28 at Maughan Church, corner of Flinders and Pitt Street. Keynote speaker is Western Australian UCA minister Ian Robinson who will speak on desert spirituality. Non-members may register by calling 8236 4221 or email: sue@sa.uac.org. au. UNITING CHURCH Adult Fellowships’ “Connect with Creation” is on Wednesday July 11, at 10.30am at Adelaide West Uniting Church. Lunch will be available for $2.50. Enquiries to 8236 4275. THE CITY YOUTH Preaching and Leadership School is designed for potential leaders aged from 12 years to young adults. From July 17 – 20 at Adelaide West Uniting Church; cost is $35. Enquires to Neil Milton on 8234 1199 or youth@ adelaidewest.unitingchurch.org. au. THE ANNUAL returned missionaries gathering will be held on Sunday July 22, at 3.30pm at Walkerville Uniting Church, Smith Street Walkerville. Enquiries to 8295 7745. A LIVING FAITH, lead by Rev Dr Andrew Dutney is a 12 week overview of Uniting Church beliefs. On Thursdays from 7.30 - 9.30 pm starting July 26 at Parkin-Wesley College. Enquiries to 8416 8427 or visit http://www. parkinwesley.org.au/events. THE ANNUAL Leadership for Life weekend for young adults is on July 27-29. Victorian Health Minister Bronwyn Pike is key note speaker and Rev Dr Andrew Dutney will take Bible Studies. Enquiries to Deanna Howland on 8271 9528 or earth@rosefield. org.au. A MUSICAL BENEFIT CONCERT to help Ben Yengi return to the Southern Sudan to rebuild his village will be
New Times Contact Rev Gowan Armstrong on 8263 8724. For more Uniting Church events, visit Uniting Church online www.sa.uca.org.au and click on “What’s On”. There is also an online form which you can fill out to contribute notices to Notebook.
held on Sunday July 29 at 2pm at Brougham Place Uniting Church, 193 Brougham Place, North Adelaide. Tickets $25 (concession $20). Enquiries to 82672657 or 8269 4305. STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP will be held on Tuesday July 31 [Not Tuesday 5] at 10:30am at Scots Church, North Terrace. Speakers are Bishop Mariano Inong of the North Luzon District of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines and Kate Tretheway, UCA Solidarity and Justice Officer. Enquiries to 8295 7745. ONE TREE Hill Uniting Church is celebrating 140 years. Past members are invited to a church service on August 5 at 10am. Rev Neale Michael will be the speaker. RSVP to 8280 7135. THE PARKIN MISSION’S 125th anniversary will be celebrated September. There will be a tour of the West Terrace Cemetery on September 15; a book launch and service at Pilgrim Church on September 16; and a celebratory service at St Andrews by the Sea on 23 September. Enquiries to Joan Blanchard on 8236 4217. THE ANNUAL Winter Retreat “God’s Story, Our Story” will be held on Friday evening August 3 and Saturday August 4 at Nunyara, featuring Julie Perrin storyteller, educator and retreat leader. Enquires to 8416 8427 or visit http://www.parkinwesley. org.au/events. A GROUP of 12 Uniting Church folk will visit our partner church, Church of North India, Diocese of Amritsar late March - early April 2008. For
more details, contact Robert Bos at robertbos@optusnet.com.au. WHO IS a member of the Uniting Church? In February, a discussion paper “A Church of Passionate Disciples” was sent to all Presbyteries, (or download from from http://assembly. uca.org.au). Assembly needs responses by the end of October. PRIMITIVE METHODISM is the subject of a book titled “Pioneering Para Plains”, researched by Rev Ted Curnow. Order through the Presbytery and Synod office reception or by email: tedberyl @bigpond. net.au or by mail “Book Release” 174 Target Hill Road, Salisbury Heights SA 5109. A NEW DISABILITY RESOURCES section has been added to the Uniting Church website - www.sa.uca.org. au/goto/disability. Provides resources for those engaged in worship, Christian Education, small groups and children’s ministry. THE MANINGRIDA congregation in Arnhem Land is seeking old Methodist or Australian Hymn Books.
PORT ADELAIDE Uniting Church is holding a “Rhythm and Pews” fundraising concert, featuring the Port Uniting youth ensemble and “The Standard Deviations” band, on Sunday July 29 from 2-4pm at the church on Commercial Road, Port Adelaide. Enquiries to pauc@chariot.net.au or call 8240 0200 or 82401945. THE CHILDREN’S MINISTRY resource KUCA News is full of ideas for churches, schools, playgroups, school chaplains and anyone working with children. Purchase the remaining three issues for 2007 plus a full year’s subscription for 2008, for $35. Enquiries to 8236 4245 or kucanews@ sa.uca.org.au. UNITING CHURCH congregations running playgroups are asked to contact Uniting Church SA children’s mission planner Heidi Jane Harding. Heidi is establishing a resource sharing network for playgroups and a website. Contact Heidi on 8236 4281 or email heidi@sa.uca.org.au. THANKS TO EVERYONE who participated in the 2007 Lenten Appeal. All outstanding donations should be forwarded as soon as possible. Enquiries to 8236 4239 or email: lyn@ sa.uca.org.au
MODBURY UNITING CHURCH is holding a series of winter seminars from Sunday July 8 to Sunday July 22. Presentation; shared tea; question time: 6.00 to 8.15pm approx. Enquires to Tony Price on 8289 3707. BRINKWORTH UC will celebrate 100 years with a Thanksgiving Service at 10.30 am on November 4, 2007 followed by a luncheon in the Brinkworth Hall. Enquiries to 88462083 or 88462085. UNITING CHURCH congregations and agencies receiving invoices from Mediacom in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane are advised to check the invoice. This company has no relationship with Mediacom Education Inc of PO Box 610, Unley SA 5061. ARE YOU USING your Uniting Church SA 2007 Calendar? To help the Communications Unit plan for next year, please tell us if you like the calendar style annual report and how many copies your congregation might like for 2008. Contact Jo Watts on 8236 4260 or email jo@ sa.uca.org.au.
Ministry Moves
Brian Scott will move to Loxton/Renmark from January 1, 2008 and Cake Baker to Prospect Road from September 1, 2007.
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
NCLS GIFT NCLS IS a gift to the church. It provides congregations and Synod leadership with indepth information about attitudes and trends in UCA congregations all over South Australia. We know more about church life than any previous generation of Christian leaders. NCLS has created a data rich environment that is designed to empower local congregational leaders in mission. While we read the NCLS ‘good and bad news’ let us not loose sight of the reality that the future of the UCA is in God’s hands. It is God who is faithful to his people, it is God’s salvation given through the Son that is our good news, and it is God’s empowering Holy Spirit which leads us into the future. Rev Dr Phil Marshall Tea Tree Gully Uniting Church
ALDERSGATE CHAPEL THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY of the chapel at Aldersgate Aged Care facility will be celebrated on Sunday September 14, 2008. A planning meeting of all interested people will be held at the chapel on Wednesday August 1 at 7:30 pm. The meeting will plan four celebratory events including a special service on Sunday September 14. For further information contact me on 8206 0411 or 0408 852 925. Jim Winn Aldersgate chaplain 60x48mm Advert
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Classifieds Work Wanted CARPETS LAID. Expert repairs. 0417 872 105 or 8344 4725 EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN Rose pruning. $15 per hour. Your spare pair of hands. Phone 8346 0933
Hospitality Venture HOLIDAY PACKAGE Broken Hill Congregation’s “Hospitality Venture” 6 –day holiday package, 6th to 11th September 2007. Phone our church office (08 8087 5317) for a brochure or for more information.
Church celebrates its 30th Birthday
UNITING CHURCH groups across Australia celebrated the church’s 30th anniversary on June 22. Church leaders attending last month’s Minister’s Day took time out to mark the occasion with a cake. From left are Heidi Jane Harding, Adam Tretheway, Ruthmary Bond, Peter Morel, Diane Bury and Moderator Graham Vawser.
New General Secretary needed The Uniting Church SA is looking for a new General Secretary as Rev Dr Graham Humphris hopes to return to congregational ministry at Aberfoyle UC next year. Graham initially took on the General Secretary/CEO role for two years which will be up at the end of this year. He will stay on until a replacement is found.
‘Night out at Nackara’ relieving the drought A ROARING bonfire greeted about 250 people at Nackara early last month for a drought breaking Saturday night event called “Night out at Nackara”. The event was orchestrated by a small band of folk who saw the need to cheer the drought stricken pastoralists and farmers of the North East and Peterborough/Orroroo area. The evening was funded by the Uniting Church SA and the South Australian government. The barbecue tea was served in the supper room with a minimum of fuss, despite the caterers having no inkling of how many might attend. Jeanette Wormald and Andrew Clermont delighted the crowd with their singing and musicianship. Jeanette is a renowned and celebrated artist from the Mallee and Andrew travelled from Queensland to share his repertoire of violin, mandolin, banjo and didgeri-bone! Enthusiastic dancers, young and old, were
instructed in some old-time favourite dances – with a few games thrown in for extra laughs! The magnificent bonfire drew the revellers to its warmth. The promised fireworks were more than anyone had imagined, enthralling all and drawing comments like “This is better than Sydney on New Year’s Eve!” The pyrotechnician was Rev Jonathon Button of Booleroo Centre. Late in the evening the “hangers-on” returned to the hall, where they were instructed in the fine art of circular breathing, but alas, most conceded that we will never play the didgeridoo, trumpet or bagpipes! All enjoyed a marvellous meal, magnificent music and fabulous fireworks. Well done to the organising committee – John and Pat Casey, Rev Jenny Swanbury, Pastor Robyn Mackay, Chris and Daphne Bretag and Jill Heilmann. It certainly was a night to remember. – Ros Breeding
Centre for Theology & Ministry
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New Times
Young invited to carry Cross
The cross and icon that will soon travel around Australia in preparation for World Youth Day in Sydney next July.
ADELAIDE’S ASSISTANT Roman Catholic bishop, Bishop Greg O’Kelly, has invited young people of all churches to help carry a giant Cross through Adelaide and various parts of South Australia. The Cross will visit SA from November 6 to 16. The pilgrimage of the Cross will prepare for World Youth Day (WYD) in Sydney in July next year. The Cross is visiting various parts of the world to prepare for WYD in much the same way as the Olympic Torch is carried round the world before the Olympic Games. Bishop O’Kelly gave the invitation informally during a meeting of the SA Heads of Christian Churches, which represents all the major Christian churches in SA. He was speaking on behalf of the Adelaide WYD coordinating committee. “The heads of churches at the meeting all reacted well,” he said. “They all seemed interested. “We’re certainly keen to continue to explore ecumenical cooperation. “It will require significant numbers of young people to carry the Cross. It’s four metres high – and it’s heavy. “It requires crews of people, eight at a time, to carry it for 10 minutes or so. “We’re pitching this at young people in their 20s and early 30s. Teenagers will be
welcome, too, but it’s mainly for people over 18. And it happens to clash with Year 12 exams. “We’ll send out invitations to churches and their young people’s groups. “This is something that can unite us.” Bishop O’Kelly said the Cross’s detailed route has not yet been decided. “We hope that carrying the Cross will appeal to all young Christians,” he said. “The Cross transforms and it reconciles. The Cross transformed the world. And through the Cross people were reconciled to God. “We hope to take the Cross to places where reconciliation is an obvious need, where it can be a symbol – such as reconciliation between Indigenous and European people. “It can be transforming in places where there has been evil, such as places of execution – perhaps the site of the first hanging in the colony. “And the Cross is a symbol in itself of Christianity. It can witness to the power of the Gospel. “If we take it, for example, to Light’s Vision, it would symbolise the desire for reconciliation in Adelaide between all those who need it, the desire that the people of Adelaide be transformed into a people of justice and love. “It would symbolise the city’s need for the message of the Gospel.” An icon of Mary will arrive in SA at the same time as the Cross. Bishop O’Kelly hopes there will be a major ecumenical service while the Cross is in Adelaide.
‘Christ’s prayer is being heard’ Nick Kerr
Baptist, Pentecostal, Uniting, CHRIST’S PRAYER for unity Presbyterian, Catholic, Salvation Army – the whole is being heard, Bishop Greg range – sitting together, O’Kelly said. conscious of what unites us.” The bishop has been Bishop O’Kelly said the appointed new president of differentiated power of Christ the SA Council of Churches. was working in an array of “It’s a truism, but still different people. factual, that what unites us “There’s a growing is greater than what divides appreciation that the beauty us,” he said. of Christ is like a polyEcumenical dialogues faceted diamond,” he said. had led to some agreed “Some traditions show forth statements. the beauty of a particular “But in practice facet in a way that others congregations are still haven’t. staying separate,” he said. “Together you get this “Church structures are still power of the personality of separate. Each still has its Christ coming through. own ethos. “You have the privilege “Even at those very of seeing how sincere and friendly meetings with genuine people of other the SA Heads of Christian denominations are, how Churches, the churches are moved they are by the power, all very different and, in a the personality, the gift of way, content to be different. Christ. “I don’t think that “Christ prompts their hearts contradicts the prayer of and souls so very obviously. Christ that all may be one. It’s wonderful to experience “I think the prayer of that. Christ is being heard. There’s “By being together we a most refreshing absence have a more complete of rancour or suspicion. picture of the face of Christ. So we have Anglican, We certainly have a more JULY 2007
complete picture of the impact of Christ in the lives of individuals and in the different churches.” All churches, he said, are facing challenges that were not so great in earlier times. “There was a religious setting and a religious tone to society, even if it wasn’t formally religious. “There was an accepted family, social and individual morality. That’s been rather fragmented. “And the churches aren’t the opinion makers in society that they used to be. “We have a common challenge – how to preach Christ, how to be faithful to him, how to show forth his face more effectively in a world that in some ways doesn’t want to see him.”
Bishop Greg O’Kelly is the new president of the SA Council of Churches.