New Times - March 2014

Issue 38, No 2, 2014

The voice of Uniting Church SA

March 2014

Teach

CALLED TO TEACH

A CARING COMMUNITY

Exploring the connection

Meeting local needs through

between faith and teaching

church teaching programs

p.9

pp. 10-11

Contents FEATURES More than a long weekend

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Called to teach

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A teaching church Exploring mission networks From charity to capacity building

13 16-18 24

REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s Comment Getting to know...

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Diary 20 Letters 21 Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Loan Leane Design: David Lombardi Print: Graphic Print Group For editorial inquiries: p. (08) 8236 4249 e. newtimes@sa.uca.org.au m. The Editor,

New Times GPO Box 2145

Adelaide SA 5001 For advertising bookings: p. (08) 7007 9020 e. advertising.newtimes@sa.uca.org.au

w: newtimes.sa.uca.org.au facebook.com/NewTimesUCA 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.

Print circulation: 10,000 Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie St, Adelaide p. (08) 8236 4200 f. 8236 4201 country callers. 1300 766 956

Next issue: Cry out To ‘cry out’ is to scream or shout aloud, especially in pain or terror. To ‘cry out’ for something is to demand it in an obvious manner. ‘For crying out loud’ is an exclamation of anger or dismay. There are so many people, across the world and in our own backyard, who are crying out in these ways. In April, New Times will focus on justice and God’s constant presence in times of struggle.

DEADLINE FOR APRIL 2014

Wednesday 12 March

Uniting College Study Intensive Pioneering Ministry 17-21 March Explore pioneering and innovation in Christian ministry and mission.

Dynamic morning presentations by Director of the Centre for Pioneer Learning at Ridley Hall, Cambridge, David Male.

Thought provoking and inspiring evening presentations of local stories, fused with worship, facilitated by Uniting College Principal, Steve Taylor.

Enquiries and bookings Ph: 8416 8400 Uniting College is a member of the Adelaide College of Divinity, a Registered Training Organisation and Higher Education Provider.

editorial

A guiding God The Bible is full of teachings about how God wants us to live – what kind of expectations God has for us and how we should treat other people. We can read the Bible regularly and prayerfully and seek out God’s teachings. However, the Bible doesn’t necessarily provide us with specific instructions on situations we may face throughout our lives. Having a deep relationship and getting to know God better enable us to seek out God’s guidance and will for our lives. I have compiled some principles and verses that help me seek guidance and will hopefully help you too: Seeking – Wake up every day seeking to do God’s will. When we seek God, we will be heard and given the wisdom required to make the right choices.

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

(Matthew 7:7 NIV) Asking – God hears us and wants us to ask – even though the answer may take a while, we know God is listening.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us – whatever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of him. (1 John 5:14, 15 NIV) Trusting – That God will show you what to do.

“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.” (Mark 11:22-23 NIV)

Remaining open to God – Submitting to whatever God wants us to do and surrendering ourselves to God’s timing and guidance.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6 NIV) Contemplating – The more we ponder the Word of God, the clearer our path will become.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

(Psalm 119:105 NIV) God teaches us through everyday ways and in all situations.

But the real learning comes in the context of a deep and loving relationship with God, not one where we are unthinking robots programmed to move through the motions. Because of this, I feel the need to act as someone who shares the Lord’s concern for the world, noticing opportunities, helping those in need, acting with compassion, being fearless and utilising the gifts I have been given.

An apt prayer is the one shared by David, who enjoyed a personal relationship with God his shepherd: Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your path; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are my God my Saviour, and my hope is in you all day long. (Psalm 25: 4-5 NIV)

Bindy Taylor

Ian Tanner memorial service There was standing room only at Scots Church Adelaide as many gathered to celebrate the faith, life and ministry of Rev Ian Tanner on Monday 17 February. The memorial service provided an opportunity for those gathered to reflect on the contribution Ian made to the lives of individuals and the Uniting Church, both in South Australia and nationally.

Cover details

Pictured is Early Childhood Educator Bethany Hewitt of Seeds Uniting Church. In this edition, Bethany discusses the connection between teaching and faith in her life – see “Called to teach” on page 9.

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moderator

Teaching and learning – a lifelong journey I love the Flinders Ranges – the stunning beauty of the landscape, as Wilpena Pound (Ikara) rises out of the flat plains, the colours that emerge as the light hits the side of the mountain. It’s impossible to capture the beauty in a photograph – even in digital panorama mode!

This past week my view of the Flinders Ranges has changed and deepened. There is more there than meets the eye. I have been privileged to be part of a group of 12 who were led by Auntie Denise Champion in “Walking on Country.” Denise is the South Australian Chair of the Uniting and Aboriginal Islander Christian Congress and Covenanting Coordinator; she is also an Adnyamathanha (Flinders Ranges) woman. During our walk Denise shared Dreaming stories with us and talked about her connection to the country on which we stood. She encouraged us to reflect on three things from these stories: “rules for living, relationship to the environment, and relationship to the spiritual world.” Denise highlighted themes of resurrection and light overcoming darkness.

In our four days together, we experienced what I see as key elements in effective and faithful Christian education – information, formation and transformation (see the work of Christian educator, Thomas Groome for more on this). We heard stories

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of the Adnyamthanha people and learnt some words in Adnyamthanha language.

We reflected on Biblical and theological foundations. We shared in Christian community and grew in our understanding of each other, ourselves and God – a formational process. We were transformed as we opened ourselves to this pilgrimage of faith, entering into the stories, listening for God speaking to us through story, creation and encounters with each other.

Many of our significant experiences of growth in Christian discipleship come when we intentionally set aside time and create spaces to reflect on our journey with God. As we enter into the season of Lent, I encourage you to find the time and space, both personally and communally, to reflect on what it means for us to follow in the way of Jesus in contemporary Australia.

One of the resources that can be used to support our growth in faith is UnitingWorld’s Lent Event. This campaign has been designed to offer a wide range of resources to help congregations, Bible study groups, families and individuals to enter into the season of Lent in ways that encourage us to participate in God’s mission in the world.

Another very important focus this Lent is A Destiny Together, a Uniting Church Assembly initiative expressing our Covenant with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander

Christian Congress. A Destiny Together is a week of prayer and fasting (Monday 17 – Sunday 23 March) where we pray and work together for justice for the First Peoples of Australia and for reconciliation.

There will be a national event in Canberra and congregations, schools and agencies are invited to plan local events that focus on justice, reconciliation and hope. There are excellent resources on the Assembly website for congregations, individuals and small groups.

I pray that this Season of Lent you will find time and space to immerse yourself in the Christian story and vision, share in the life of a faith community and experience the transforming power of Christ who invites us to journey through struggle, compassion and love, toward Resurrection hope.

For more information on Lent Event, please visit lentevent.com or call (02) 8267 4267.

For more information on A Destiny Together, please visit assembly.uca.org.au/ adestinytogether or call (02) 8267 4238.

Dr Deidre Palmer

news

More than a long weekend A long weekend is always much anticipated, the Easter long weekend maybe more than most. These four blissful, work-free days (for most!), often spent taking advantage of the last of the warm weather, help to cleanse us of the stress and busyness of our daily lives. But, when we return to routine, we find the pressures quickly come flooding back.

For Christians all over the world, the Easter long weekend is about another, more lasting kind of cleansing – that offered by Jesus as he died on the cross for our sins. Through this amazing act we are given a fresh start.

Easter is more than a long weekend: it’s a time for us, the people of the Uniting Church in South Australia, to gather and reflect on a message that is at the heart of our faith – Christ crucified and risen again. It’s a message that opens the way for us to experience life in all its fullness – abundant life – in relationship with God. “Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus Christ.”

(1 Corinthians 1:30 MSG) This year’s Easter postcards draw on these ideas, and provide a great way to invite others in your community to hear the Easter message.

More than a long weekend

Vacant Placements: Profiles available – Bordertown, Buckingham & Mundulla; Bridgewater (0.5); Clare; Goyder Ministry Area; Mallala & Two Wells UC (0.6); Rosefield; Waikerie; Western Eyre (Cummins, Cornerstone, Lock & Yeelanna).

Your services details here

Return to Contents

Placements News

Upcoming Induction Services: Craig Mitchell (Specified Youth Worker), National Director – Formation, Education & Discipleship on Monday 3 March, 7.30pm at Rosefield Uniting Church Rev Cate Baker, Resthaven – Leabrook & Paradise on Thursday 20 March, 2pm at Paradise Resthaven Rev Tim Hein, Director of Christian Education & Discipleship on Saturday 15 March at the Presbytery & Synod Meeting, Adelaide West Uniting Church

Your custom greeting here

For all Uniting Church Easter services in SA, please visit sa.uca.org.au/Easter

Postcard details Back cover verse: Jesus said, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

(John 10:10 NRSV) Postcard cost: $69 per 1,000 (minimum of 1,000) Poster cost: $10 for 10 A3 posters (minimum of 10) Orders close: Wednesday 5 March, 2014 Available for pickup: From Adelaide West Uniting Church during the Presbytery and Synod meeting, Friday 14 – Saturday 15 March, 2014, and from 212 Pirie Street after this date. (Registered Post can be invoiced if you would like the postcards to be sent to you once printed.)

Placements finalised since the February edition of New Times: Rev Dr Beatrice Panne to Eldercare, Seaford from 1 March, 2014 Linda Driver (MOP) to Burnside City Uniting Church (0.8) from 1 May, 2014 Rev Steve Thompson to Morialta Uniting Church from 1 May, 2014 Rev Beth Seaman to Kent Town Uniting Church (0.5) from 1 July, 2014

Easter

Jesus said: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

Each postcard provides space for your congregation’s Easter service days and times, as well as a custom message.

For further information, please visit sa.uca.org.au/postcards or contact the Communications team on 8236 4249 or communications@sa.uca.org.au

Profiles not yet available – Aldinga-McLaren Vale Linked Congregations; County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell & Driver River) from September 2014; Flinders Congregations (Booleroo Centre, Booleroo Whim, Melrose, Murray Town, Wilmington & Wirrabarra); Newland (0.7); Port Augusta Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress; Windsor Gardens (0.5); Whyalla; Yilki (0.3).

For more information on any of these placements, or to view national placements, please visit sa.uca.org.au/pastoral-relations/placements-vacant

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news

Joining Jesus’ team As the March long weekend approaches, groups at Uniting Church congregations across the state begin to get excited about KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out).

KCO is an annual Uniting Church camp for children between the ages of seven and 12. The event provides an opportunity for children to explore their faith through fun and fellowship.

KCO will be held at the Barossa Valley Tourist Park from Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 March in 2014. Attendees will explore the theme of “Team Jesus” through worship, music, games and activities. The theme aims to teach campers about the life and teachings of Jesus in a way that they can easily relate to and understand.

For more information, please contact the KCO Event Office: e. kco@sa.uca.org.au p. 8236 4246 Or visit the website: w. kco.sa.uca.org.au Children enjoy the fun and games at KCO in 2013.

Experiencing gospel this Fringe Rev Dr Vicky Balabanski

The Adelaide Fringe Festival is turning out to be more controversial than usual this year.

The 2014 programme includes some intentionally provocative voices raised against the Christian faith, even targeting Jesus himself. However, there are also more Christian venues and shows this year than ever before.

Alongside such excellent events as Carpe Idiotus at Pilgrim Uniting Church, this year’s Fringe will offer a rich feast of music and thought through an event called God at the fringe.

Featuring Paulini (of Australian Idol renown), Adelaide’s own Charmaine Jones and Gospo Music, and blogger-theologian

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Ben Myers, this show will present a fun, culturally credible celebration and articulation of the Gospel – one that seasoned Christians can confidently invite non-churched, nonChristian friends to attend. All within the Uniting Church in SA are invited to pray for someone, bring them along to the event and be a part of the way God can disciple that person.

God at the fringe is a show that will appeal to all ages. There will be coffee and sweets available for those who would like to reflect on the gospel songs and message of the evening, to have a word with Ben, or maybe to pray with someone.

In the contested space of the Fringe

Festival, some voices have called on Christians to boycott the Fringe. Let’s not do so. Instead of leaving the field of cultural discourse bereft of the message of God’s grace, we can be out in the marketplace as Jesus was (Matthew 11:16-19!) and invite people to experience the Gospel afresh!

God at the fringe will be held at House International Uniting Church, 43 Franklin St, Adelaide, at 6pm and 9pm on Thursday 13 March. To find out more about the event, please visit godatthefringe.org.au or call Vicky Balabanski on 8416 8425.

Tickets are available through FringeTix outlets, via adelaidefringe.com.au or by calling 1300 621 255 27.

news

Joining together in prayer On the World Day of Prayer, Friday 7 March this year, people will gather at 150 locations across South Australia to celebrate and pray together, following “Streams in the Desert,” the 2014 program of worship prepared by women in Egypt. This program will provide a guide for prayer services in 170 countries around the world, including over 1,000 services across Australia.

World Day of Prayer is an international, ecumenical organisation which enables Christian churches to hear the voices of people from all over the world – their hopes, concerns and prayers. This year’s focus on Egypt draws attention to concerns that have arisen in the area since the 2011 Arab Spring uprising.

Egypt is a place where history flows across every location, like the Nile River flows through its land. This history is both ancient and Biblical as Egypt has been both a place of exile and a place of refuge. It is a place where

World Day of Prayer state committee members (left to right) Judy Burge (Secretary Uniting), Nita West (President - Uniting), Pam Broadbridge (Assistant Secretary - Catholic), Lois Denholm (Committee - Salvation Army), and Helen Stanger (Publication Officer Uniting) packing envelopes and admiring an Egyptian Costume.

streams flow through desert lands, bringing with them the fertile nutrients needed for plants, trees, and all forms of life to flourish.

But these streams are not only physical rivers – through this year’s World Day of Prayer worship service, Christians are invited to seek the streams of living water which Jesus offers.

In Adelaide, the interdenominational event will include a city service at Pilgrim

Uniting Church, 12 Flinders Street, Adelaide at 1.30pm. Fuzz Kitto will speak at the event, sharing his experiences of travelling and working in Egypt.

For information on other World Day of Prayer services being held across the state, please contact Judy Burge on 8271 5795 or judyburge@adam.com.au

A time of prayer and fasting In the February edition of New Times, readers were invited to take part in a new Uniting Church campaign, A Destiny Together. This week of prayer and fasting, to be held Monday 17 to Sunday 23 March, will feature worship, prayer vigils and events across the country – including South Australia.

A group from the Uniting Church in SA will attend the prayer vigil scheduled for Tuesday 18 March on the Parliament House Lawns in Canberra. Those who cannot travel out of the state are encouraged to take part in a prayer vigil and walk through the streets of Adelaide, starting at Pilgrim Uniting Church and heading to the steps of Parliament House.

This will take place later in the week, on a day that is yet to be determined. Details will Return to Contents

be available on the “Uniting Church. Uniting People.” Facebook page and through UC e-news closer to the date.

Events will also be held at Blackwood Uniting Church, Pilgrim Uniting Church and Congress at Salisbury. Uniting College for Leadership & Theology and several other local churches will also offer times for prayer during the week.

Uniting Church SA congregations are encouraged to focus on A Destiny Together as part of weekly worship on Sunday 23 March; resources for Sunday 16 March are also available from the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly website (details at the end of this article).

Resources for worship and daily prayer

around A Destiny Together will also be made available through Assembly, Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress, and the South Australian Covenanting Committee. A bookmark with prayer points around seeking justice and recognition for First Peoples will also be available at the March Presbytery and Synod meeting.

For more information, please visit the Assembly website at assembly.uca.org.au/ adestinytogether or call (02) 8267 4238.

For further information about South Australian events, please contact Ian Dempster on 0417 217 320 or idempster@sa.uca.org.au or Dean Whittaker on 0409 090 824.

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God at the fringe Prepare to be blown away by the soulful voice of talented Australian songstress Paulini as she brings her unique style of Gospel. She will be joined by renowned blogger Ben Myers with a compelling contemporary slant on an age old story. Also performing is talented vocalist Charmaine Jones and GospoMusic (Adelaide’s leading gospel choir). Come along to this inspirational, one-of-a-kind event.

Bring a friend!

House International Uniting Church Cnr Franklin and Pitt St, Adelaide 5000

AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

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13 Mar 2014 at 6pm, 13 Mar 2014 at 9pm BankSA $18 Adult $22 Concession $18

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godatthefringe.org.au

KEEPING OUR BALANCE Growing Together in Marriage (GTIM) weekends in 2013 struck a good balance between: • young and older couples (1 - 40+ years married) • city and country couples • ‘’good” marriages and struggling ones • being pampered and working together • laughter and addressing issues But whatever their starting point, each couple left the weekend with: • better understanding of their husband or wife • renewed conviction that God brought them together • excitement about their future as a couple • resolve to give greater priority to their relationship • a vision of a more balanced life in a busy world The first weekend for 2014 - April 4-6 at The Weintal Resort, Tanunda.

No group discussions - all your sharing is in the privacy of your room.

Enquiries: Rob & Lee Allen, ph 8331 7061; Wayne & Jeanette Starick ph 8396 2848. www.gtimsa.org

(Morgans A.B.N. 49 010 669 726 A.F.S.L.235410) Participant of ASX Group, A Professional Partner of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.

Te a ch “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19 KJV). Jesus was called teacher by the multitudes and by disciples throughout the course of the Gospel, but he also calls on us to teach others. In the March edition of New Times, we explore the idea of education and teaching in the Uniting Church today.

Called to teach Bethany Hewitt is an Early Childhood Educator and Uniting Church member who feels a strong connection between her faith and her work as a teacher. She spoke to New Times about herself, her faith and her career.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Bethany Hewitt and I am 24 years old. I am an Early Childhood Educator and have just started a new job as a teacher of three year old children at Accademia di Montessori, a new Early Learning Centre in Newton. I have been involved in the Uniting Church all my life, and have always been encouraged by my parents in my faith and leadership.

What is your background in education/ teaching? What are you doing in that sphere now?

My journey to this current teaching position has been an interesting one over several years, with experiences as an Early Childhood Worker, a relief teacher while studying Honours, and teaching a young boy with autism in a mainstream school.

I have always been drawn to working with children, especially the younger ones.

Their views of the world are so completely different to that of adults, and they’re always open to exploring everything about the world.

They’re also unafraid to ask questions that adults sometimes avoid. I find them inspiring.

You never know what they’re going to ask or say next, and their passions or interests can be everlasting or change with the wind.

Every day at work is different, and they definitely keep you on your toes, but that’s one of the things that I’ve come to love – it keeps things colourful!

What about your background with faith and Christianity, particularly the Uniting Church?

As I said earlier, I have been involved Return to Contents

in the Uniting Church all of my life.

My grandparents and parents have all been involved since its inception and passed on their love of it to me. I remember attending many Uniting Churches around Adelaide throughout my life. Both parents moved away from teaching to become teachers of another sort – Ministers of the Word. As such, we have also attended various churches through their callings. They have always encouraged and supported my sister and myself in our faith, and this certainly impacted my leadership.

I have attended many KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out) and SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out) events as a camper and as a leader, and during my teens I became one of the Sunday School teachers for the preschool age group.

The camps especially impacted me strongly and I am now heavily involved in SAYCO and KCO as part of the leadership team that organises and runs them.

Do you see a connection between your faith and your role as a teacher?

I find that my leadership roles in KCO and SAYCO are simply an extension of my teaching life, another form of my ministry.

I definitely think that my faith influences my teaching, but I also believe it goes the other way as well. My teaching as a form of ministry grows and develops my faith through my inspiring experiences with my students. I am constantly amazed at the beauty and wonders of the world God created, as seen through a child’s eyes. My students help me to grow as a person and a Christian.

Do you feel called, as a Christian, to work particularly in the public or private school system?

I have worked in both sectors and have enjoyed both. I have worked in a Uniting Church school, and found it refreshing to

talk openly about faith, to say prayers and grace. But that is not to say that you can’t have similar conversations in a public sector centre or school. It all depends on the workplace, the staff and the children. Some of my most philosophical conversations have been with three year olds with no prior experience of church. I have found that faith is about spirituality - no matter how you express that.

Everyone encounters spirituality of one form or another in their life, Christianity being one of these. I think being open to having those conversations, being respectful of others’ beliefs, and keeping the loving, justiceoriented heart God encourages us to have are the important things.

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Te a ch

A caring community Wendy Sinnott

To arrive in a community as a refugee or as an immigrant from a non-English speaking country is sure to be a frightening experience. It is hard for some of us to imagine not being able to speak the language or to understand the culture, unsure how to enrol children in schools, where to shop, how to rent accommodation or where to go for medical help. The Government provides some assistance in these areas, but it is local interaction that has been proven to be most helpful – to find a friend or some ongoing support at such a vulnerable time is something to be cherished.

Approximately 11 years ago, a number of African families were settled into the Modbury-Tea Tree Gully area. Modbury Uniting Church became aware that many of them felt isolated and lost and were in need of support from their new community.

The big question the congregation faced was how best to create such a community and to reach out to the isolated. Despite this, the church created a new programme, unsure of where it would lead.

A group of volunteers from the church began a weekly women’s group, African Women’s Day, where new arrivals could find friendship and help to settle into their new environment. In the programme, women would begin to address some of the issues facing them – issues to do with housing, language barriers and general health.

The group has evolved over time and now includes new (and some not-so-new)

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arrivals from many countries. Consequently, the name has been changed to International Women’s Group. More than 20 different countries were represented in the group last year.

Every Tuesday during school term, up to 35 women and their preschool children attend the International Women’s Group where they have a chance to meet with each other and establish new friendships. The programme offers all levels of English instruction in conversation, reading and writing. It also offers instruction in the intricacies of the sewing machine and assistance is provided in making simple garments and performing alterations. Workshops and seminars are held on various topics such as women’s health, nutrition, safety in the home and money matters.

One of the volunteers has developed an excellent course that provides assistance for women who wish to sit for the Australian Citizenship test. In addition, basic computer skills are taught, as is the use of a computer programme for those learning to sit for their learner (L plate) driving test.

In the past, Families SA has been able to provide a financial counsellor on a weekly basis and a staff member from Centrelink now attends on a fortnightly basis to assist with the various problems that arise and require professional assistance.

The programme is run solely by volunteers who bring a variety of talents and expertise to assist new arrivals in becoming confident

in their new home. Up to 25 volunteers take part each week and some have been with the programme since its inception. Some of the volunteers are church attendees but many are not – members from the community see this programme as an important service in the area, and it has been recognised as such by numerous community groups and awards.

While the women are involved in the various activities, a crêche, staffed by volunteers, is available for any pre-school children present. After a morning of instruction volunteers, participants and their children gather together for a light lunch and a chat.

While running the International Women’s Group over the last 11 years has been exciting, daunting and sometimes exhausting, it has also been incredibly rewarding. Through this programme, many relationships have been joyfully formed between Modbury Uniting Church, the local community and families from non-English speaking countries.

The International Women’s Group meets at Modbury Uniting Church from 10am to 1.30pm every Tuesday during school term times. For more information, please contact Wendy Sinnott on 8379 5495 or 0412 646 086, or Pat Thomas on 8251 1371 or 0419 869 219.

Te a ch

A new mission field Upon learning that the government had stopped funding the Thebarton-based English classes for asylum seekers on bridging visas, Coromandel Valley Uniting Church decided that they had to take action. Raylene Pearce shares the story of how the Coromandel Valley congregation took teaching into their own hands.

Over past years, our congregation at Coromandel Valley Uniting Church has sent missionaries to the far corners of the earth to preach the word of God. Now the mission field has come to us!

Coromandel Valley has always been a comfortable, middle class, well-educated congregation – we now face a different reality with a more diverse community. Persian asylum seekers made up approximately 10% of the church at one point last year; 90% of them were on bridging visas that did not allow them to work.

Two members of Coromandel Valley, Urs and Lesley, have worked with refugees in the past and helped to facilitate relationships with the refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants who have recently started attending our church. The congregation at Coromandel Valley has been transformed through this experience; witnessing people coming to faith has revived our own.

Each Sunday service is a teaching opportunity. We have English and Farsi translations of the Bible readings on PowerPoint, and Rev Greg Pearce, our minister, has changed his 35-year-old writing Return to Contents

habit to ensure a précis of his sermon is ready

by Tuesday each week. This is then translated so that it can be handed to Persian attendees on Sunday morning. The congregation has learnt some Persian worship songs and enjoyed Persian food together.

We have a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) group where people visit Persians in their homes, take them shopping and for picnics, make friends, and enjoy conversational English. These visits originally supplemented classes run at Thebarton – these classes are no longer run.

This is particularly unfortunate for a couple of students who were ready to begin Year 11 and 12 this year.

As Coromandel Valley is quite a long way for many to travel, Unley Park Baptist Church has recently provided rooms for us to use to teach English every Monday. Six English as a Second Language teachers attend each week along with volunteers and students. Four Monday sessions have been held so far, each running from 9.45am to 2pm. After the initial meeting, students are divided into smaller classes depending on their level of English.

The focus of these classes is on conversation;

if people can’t talk and communicate with one another it is very easy to become isolated.

While grammar and phonics are taught, there is a focus on practicality – learning how to understand an electricity bill or ask a simple question.

But we have found there is a need to go beyond merely teaching English to our new neighbours, recognising that more is required if they are to grow in Australian society. With this in mind, Greg is currently forming a creative new trainee programme.

Based on the belief that God did not create people to ‘do nothing’, the course will focus on keeping fit, learning a musical instrument or new skill, sewing, Bible Study and ministry opportunities in addition to English language classes. Community service and times of reflection will also form a part of the programme.

The congregation at Coromandel Valley Uniting Church is excited to be embarking on this new initiative, supporting the new members of our church community.

For more information on the programmes featured here, please contact Raylene Pearce on raylene@adam.com.au or 8370 2310.

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Innovation and invigoration Kelly Higgins

When Uniting College was launched at a meeting of Synod on 27 March in 2009 it was on the proud traditions of the Parkin-Wesley Theological College, which had its beginnings over 100 years ago.

Now celebrating its fifth birthday, Uniting College upholds its tradition as a teacher of theology and leadership while being deeply faithful to its previous generations. Yet, its approach and delivery chart a dynamic new course to guide students as they realise their full potential as disciples, learners and leaders. Uniting College responds to the dynamic community in which we live, to offer innovative and flexible learning that meets the needs of wide-ranging students.

In 2013, Uniting College gave candidates the opportunity to spend three days living among the Ngarrindjeri people at Camp Coorong, listening to stories and reflecting on the implications for mission and ministry.

In 2014, a similar experience with the Adnyamathanha people in the Flinders Ranges will be on offer. These experiences enable students to reflect, grow as leaders and work more effectively across cultures.

Uniting College offers those with a passion to serve the church as chaplains (in either a voluntary or professional capacity) in schools, aged care facilities and hospitals, to gain training and accreditation in this vocational area through a Diploma of Ministry. An innovative new space at the College allows interested students to experience the practicalities involved in chaplaincy. The space features healthcare equipment, furnishings and imaginative artwork to add a valuable real life element.

The Master of Ministry program has two cohorts; innovation and invigoration. Uniting College uses video conferencing to connect ministers and leaders from around Australia.

Uniting College Post-graduate Coordinator Rosemary Dewerse connected students with

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Bishop Justin Duckworth of the Anglican Diocese of Wellington, New Zealand, who pioneered urban ministry and worked with people who were homeless. The College has also used video technology to connect with 12 ministers from around Australia.

Uniting College’s Bachelor of Ministry is now offered in Uniting Church buildings including The Corner at Warradale, Hope Valley, Goolwa, Newland at Victor Harbor, Seeds Aberfoyle Park and even Newlife Uniting Church’s Robina campus in Queensland. Early indications are that this enables Uniting College to connect with a significant group of lay people – over the three topics offered in South Australian churches 53 people have enrolled, 46 of whom are lay people participating for audit. The aim of these church-based programs is to involve as many people as possible in opportunities for education and formation, and to develop a climate in which a greater diversity of courses and units of study can be offered to people nationally.

Uniting College is committed to growing lifelong learners, nurturing disciples and training leaders for the practicalities of ministry today.

For more information about Uniting College for Leadership & Theology, please visit unitingcollege.org.au or call 8416 8420.

By the numbers Churches served – 70 preaching sermons in congregations – 38 leading intensives or retreats – 27 chairing planning groups in SA and overseas – 5 Bachelor of Ministry students – 72 Bachelor of Theology students – 56 Vocational Education and Training (VET) students - 54 Candidates in phase two and three – 46 Supervised postgraduate students - 28 Topics in Bachelor of Ministry, Bachelor of Theology, Master of Ministry - 23 Research outputs - 19

Te a ch

A teaching church Craig Mitchell

The Gap Uniting Church in Brisbane hosts a four-week teaching series twice a year.

A giant hot air balloon hangs in the church, a reminder that this time is like going up in the air to get a broader perspective on life.

As well as sermons on the theme, about 60 people turn up to a Monday night book discussion for the four weeks.

In 2013, members of Rosefield Uniting Church were invited to undertake the 34 week “Disciple” Bible study program – 40 people expressed interest, with about 25 eventually signing up. It was an intensive teaching and learning experience that was transformational for heart, mind and soul.

Some years ago, the Mid-Lachlan Mission Area in New South Wales introduced worship resources, including sermons, on DVD for smaller churches. The most significant faithbuilding dimension of this initiative was four questions offered for small group discussion after every sermon during the worship time.

This not only enriched the teaching aspect of worship, but the faith conversations continued during morning tea.

I recently interviewed ministry leaders from 22 congregations across the country, from Darwin to Hobart, Bunbury to

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Wauchope, as part of a national Uniting Church research project on Christian education. Most of these churches were serious about teaching – from the Bible, from Christian wisdom through the ages, and from current Christian thinkers.

What does it mean to be a teaching church? Leading educator Tom Groome says that Christian education forms, informs and transforms.

Formed faith Families form. Leaders model. Mentors mould. The life of a community of faith forms or shapes our character. We learn through belonging and imitation, the example of role models often speaking more loudly than words. Kippax Uniting Church in Canberra works hard at fostering intergenerational relationships as the heart of its approach to formation.

Hospitality, trust and conversation are the marks of such a community. The way we treat people of different races, whether or not women and men are treated equally, how we spend our money, whether we know children’s names and speak to them – all of these things reveal who we really are and what we really believe.

Informed faith Queenscliff Uniting Church in Victoria hosts a book club which discusses everything from St Benedict to postmodern theology.

In this retirement community, people have plenty of time on their hands to engage in small groups, spiritual retreats and seminars with visiting speakers. The ministers, Charles and Kerrie, admit that they are learning equally as much as the congregation.

I visited congregations whose leaders actively organise and promote learning opportunities that add something fresh into the life of their congregations. In the Port Macquarie region, the ministers host Bible background and culture days with ancient

music and food alongside Bible study.

For Christ Church in Wayville, the formation of the Effective Living Centre created opportunities to relate faith to everyday concerns and to explore spirituality in relation to creativity.

Mature discipleship draws us deeper into biblical understanding and engages us actively with current issues.

Transformed faith Good news is life-changing. Good teachers hope for something more than knowledge to be passed, or actions to be imitated.

Transformation happens when we are careful and humble enough to craft the environment for grace; where both people and God are invited into encounter, and the teacher can step back, wait, watch and be thankful.

I identified ‘calling’ churches who encouraged people to discover, develop and use their gifts. They actively invited, equipped, affirmed, supported and resourced their members. People were transformed through being used by God. I also identified ‘sending’ churches who actively called, sponsored and learnt from people who went to leadership training events, mission trips, National Christian Youth Convention events, and exposures to other cultures. They were full of stories about life-giving change poured back into the life of the congregation.

A congregation is a lifelong learning community of discipleship, constantly being formed, informed and transformed in faith for the sake of the mission of God. Craig Mitchell is National Director for Formation, Education and Discipleship for the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly.

Craig blogs at growing-disciples.org and hosts a Facebook discussion group, “Forming Faith, Growing Disciples” at facebook.com/ groups/formingfaith

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magazine

Our changing landscape – a pilgrim begins to navigate Paul Turley

The landscape is changing.

I know that.

The landscape is always changing.

Nothing stays the same.

Even the ground beneath my feet is moving. I mean, even the continent of Australia is heading north at seven centimetres a year!

I know the landscape is changing for the church, too. Things aren’t like they used to be. Our Sunday Schools aren’t bursting with kids.

Our properties are no longer the centre of community life. How many of our congregations have no one in them under the age of 60?

And how many can no longer afford to support a minister?

However, there’s more to this whole changing landscape issue than things not being what they were. A changing landscape is true Uniting Church territory. It is stitched into the DNA of the Uniting Church to be travellers through a changing landscape. The Basis of Union – that great poetic document that we have carried with us from the beginning – insists that we are a gaggle of pilgrims, tramping through the landscape of the world on the way to the promised goal.

Sadly, we have not done much to take that document seriously.

We have this wonderful, inspiring guide for travellers but many of us meet in buildings that aren’t going anywhere, and our movement is sometimes hampered by the weight of the past. Some of the load we carry is precious gold, some of it pointless lead; at times the weight of it keeps us so exhausted we haven’t the energy to figure out which is which. But, nonetheless, we keep insisting that we are travellers, pilgrim people. And so, as travellers, we must keep an eye on the terrain.

So here’s what I am trying to do at the moment. I’m trying to think less like a settler and more like a nomad; less like a town planner and more like a tent pitcher; less like I’m living in my own house and more like I’m living in a hotel. I want to be less in the way and more on the way – more like a backpacker on the way to the promised goal, as our President Andrew Dutney encouraged us to be in mid-2013.

Paul Turley speaks to those gathered at Clayton Wesley for the “Jesus was a Refugee” campaign.

I’m also reminding myself that this is not my Church – it’s God’s.

We have no idea what is around the bend or over the hill but we have the great joy of going forward to see. And, as John Wesley said at the end of his own journey, “The best of all is, God is with us.”

If you would like to contribute to discussion about the future of the Uniting Church in South Australia, please contact Presbytery Strategy and Planning Team representative, Rev Paul Turley on 0488 537 781 or paul6756@gmail.com

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mission networks

The gift of being UnitingWorld National Director Kerry Enright

In April I conclude seven years as National Director of UnitingWorld to take up congregational ministry. As I look towards that role, one of my first thoughts concerns how I will enable the congregation to engage globally.

How will I support children and adults who have been baptised to meet, at least in their imagination, their brothers and sisters in faith across the globe? How will I help those coming for Confirmation to have a deep sense of being bound to people beyond their locality? How will I help nourish disciples to act with the people suffering injustice not reported in popular media? How will I guide the congregation in experiencing God beyond the constraints of Western culture?

Yes, some of these things will happen as they meet their neighbours, people of diverse cultures and faiths, right on their doorsteps. And their relationship with the First Peoples will remain fundamental.

Yet there is much more.

The last seven years have populated my life with fellow pilgrims.

I now journey with the young woman in Maluku, Indonesia, who with her family ran from their long-owned home, alerted by the sound of an approaching angry crowd. They never returned. They made it to the wharf, the women crossing the bay by boat and the men swimming with the sound of bullets pinging the water around them. She spent five years in a refugee camp, initially with intense fear and hatred of Muslims. However, she gathered the courage to reach towards Muslim people and formed with them a group for reconciliation. Incidents that once ignited violence now generate shared compassion.

I journey with the group of women I met in Juba, South Sudan.

Their country has known more than a generation of war and the statistics suggest hopelessness. The worst maternal health figures in the world. 90% illiteracy outside the three main centres. Young adults who have never been to school. Poor infrastructure typified by the less than 100 kilometres of sealed road in a country the size of France.

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The older women I met knew all this for they had experienced it at its most agonizing. Yet their hope was evident, feeding a quiet and fierce determination that they would do their best to make it different.

These people and many others have led me to understand my faith, the Bible and the Church differently. My temptation to lassitude now has the antidote of countless stories of courage. My doubt, such a natural part of faith, runs up against my experience of changed lives now bringing change in the most unpromising circumstances. A safe, placid and compliant faith makes even less sense now.

Perhaps most of all, amid the secularity of Australia and New Zealand, I have a strong sense of the burgeoning dynamic nature of the Christian movement world-wide. 80% of the world is publicly religious.

Australia, New Zealand and other descendants of the Enlightenment are islands of secularity in a vast sea of religion, especially in our part of the world. Even Western scholarship no longer propounds the longheld view that affluence and education inherently secularise.

The faith handed to us via largely Western thinking is changing.

The silverfish will finally consume the fading posters of a Scandinavian Jesus pinned to the walls of our Church halls. Instead, we are engaging with a Christ seen through Asian, African and Latin American eyes, through the sheer dint of population numbers and their dynamism.

A new Church is built in China every three days, following Africa’s experience of Christ.

Even from New Zealand, where I am going, I will look to UnitingWorld to give me stories to tell week by week, the names of people to pray with, churches with which our older and younger people can volunteer, issues about which to advocate, justice to be part of, and opportunities for sacrificial giving. Most of all, I will look for a sense of the dynamic, life-changing, burgeoning movement of which our congregation is a part.

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mission networks

Exploring mission networks Almost ten years ago the Uniting Church in South Australia collapsed its seven Presbyteries into one, leading to the establishment of ‘mission networks’ in November 2005. A mission network is defined as a group of congregations joined together for the purpose of resourcing one another and providing pastoral care. Each network must have a stated missional focus and a common ethos which has been agreed upon by the Uniting Church SA Presbytery.

At present, nine mission networks encompass Uniting Church congregations across the state. For this edition, New Times asked

each network to provide a brief article to inform readers of their background, focus and plans for the coming year.

Please note: the South East Mission Network has not been able to participate in this article – further information about this network will be provided at a later date.

For more information about the establishment of the mission networks, and the rules each must follow, please see the “Pres Synod Decisions 2005-Uniting Church SA” document at sa.uca.org.au/pres-synodmeetings/previous-presbytery-and-synod-meetings

3DNet

Community Outreach Mission Network (COMN)

From its inception, 3DNet seriously explored the notion of what it means to be a ‘network’ – we did not want to become another layer of business or management within the church. Hence, we continue to strive to connect people across the network in mutually fulfilling and productive ways. This fostering of relationships helps people with common interests and understandings of church and mission to network in both arranged and informal ways.

3DNet avoids formal business meetings, although we do have a seven person leadership team that endeavours to guide the network and provoke active networking amongst the members. We embrace the title of ‘gathering’ to further reinforce that the face-to-face coming together of people is for inspiration, sharing, motivation and equipping for mission. We do not have congregation representatives as such on the network. Instead, we welcome any one from our member churches to attend the gatherings and to take initiative in connecting with people of similar interest and mission incentive. Our fruitfulness is enhanced when we support and learn from each other. At gatherings we may have some specific input and this is complemented by substantial networking and connecting.

Our Network’s focus is to resource and support our people.

We especially encourage all congregations and members to develop purposeful networking relationships.

Aware that our congregations face many challenges, we seek to assist where possible, encouraging creative thinking and action that often entails courageous innovation. We believe that leadership is crucial in this. Hence, we provide opportunities for pastors/ministers to develop their leadership understanding and capacity. We encourage the discipline of participation in leadership reading groups, meeting to discuss the application of leadership principles derived from carefully chosen books.

Each year we conduct a three day retreat for our pastors and ministers where we encourage each other, consider relevant mission matters, and generally strengthen collegiate relationships.

With member churches across the whole state, we seek to run regional and metropolitan gatherings and, where possible, shape those gatherings around the particular needs of a region at that time.

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It is not the church of God that has a mission, it is the God of mission that has a church - Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams The COMN understands community outreach as expressing Christ’s love for the world in their local communities. Hence, outreach is not seen as primarily attracting the community to the church (in-reach), but participating in the community in the manner outlined by Rev Peter Riggs of the Playford Uniting Church: “A final challenge for us is whether we see ourselves as serving the community, or living alongside and in our community. If we see our local community as recipients of what we do, what we subtly create is separation, our community and your community. What would it look like to seek to share life together more fully? For if we are prepared to, we ourselves cannot remain as we are.”

Sharing this common desire to participate in God’s mission in the world is an inclusive network of 36 Uniting Church congregations (worshipping in 39 locations) spread across greater Adelaide and the Riverland. To support this common desire, COMN assists and equips these congregations by sharing stories, experiences and ideas, and by building up their skills. This is achieved by COMN gathering each year on four occasions, at four different locations, with each gathering having a particular focus: • what congregations are doing in community outreach; • learning about our communities into which God calls us to minister; • developing our community outreach skills; and • evaluating the mission network and identifying any possible changes.

In addition, the member congregations of COMN are supported through: • COMN Mission Grants (up to $800) to extend God’s mission into their community; • a Pastoral Team (which also organises an annual Minister’s Retreat Day); • an Executive (providing direction and exercising appropriate financial controls); • a monthly newsletter; and • a part-time Administrator and Pastoral Team Leader.

mission networks In 2013, $60,000 of COMN contributions were redistributed to those outreach mission activities of Synod identified by the member congregations of COMN.

Grace Connections Mission Network Grace Connections Mission Network is calling to promote a missional culture within historical churches to create a new future. It is our goal to help churches within our network to honour their historical context yet embrace a new future that encourages growth and new thinking.

We are aware that this is a difficult task, but we feel called to navigate a renewal of our traditional churches to be the light of Christ in our communities.

To fulfil this calling, we hold two main gatherings a year that create conversation surrounding our goal. We also hold an annual ministerial lunch to offer support and encouragement to the clergy that are in our network.

We are currently focussed on how to participate in down-to-earth Australian evangelism, looking at how we are sharing our faith through our programs, such as playgroups, to see people come into a lifechanging relationship with our God through Christ.

HopeNet Hope Mission Network is geographically widespread with 57 congregations from the Upper South East to the West Coast of South Australia, ranging in size from hundreds to a handful, many without a minister or pastor. Common to these congregations is the centrality of the Gospel to the lives of individuals and the mission and outreach of the church.

Our network minister, Rev Ian Clarkson, has a passion for enabling congregations to engage in meaningful worship and relevant outreach in their local communities. 2013 saw several “Rise Up” events in local halls, sharing the good news of Jesus in testimony, music and the preached Word. Other places experienced a ‘Q&A’ style event staged by the local congregation to introduce people to the claims of Jesus.

We have a HopeNet gathering during each Presbytery and Synod Meeting where we share a meal and encourage one another with stories from our congregations – all are welcome, not just Synod representatives. The HopeNet Executive meets monthly, sharing around God’s Word and caring for our ministers, pastors and congregations. Our annual ministers’/pastors’ retreat, on Kangaroo Island this year, serves to refresh, support and connect those in leadership in our congregations.

A focus of HopeNet congregations is concern for the whole body of Christ and we strongly urge prayerful identification with, and support for, the persecuted church. HopeNet has assisted in sponsoring visits from Dr Patrick Sookhdeo (Barnabas Fund), Daniel Sheyesteh (Iranian ex-terrorist) and Bishop Joel Kakembo (Uganda).

HopeNet congregations share common ground theologically, including an evangelical reading of scripture regarding sexuality and marriage. The Executive acts as an advocate for its congregations on

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these and other issues in the public forum and within the Uniting Church.

2014 will see more “Rise Up” Gospel celebrations as more congregations look for ways to connect with their communities.

We would encourage any congregation to organise a Gospel event in their community and are happy to share what we’ve learnt from past events. In April, our Mallee and South East congregations will enjoy a weekend of ‘coming together’ at Renmark. In August, HopeNet will sponsor another “Stir the Fire” with Mike Raiter providing teaching on ‘must-hear preaching’. We’ll advertise the details prior to the event and anyone interested in thinking about the power of the Gospel in preaching is welcome to attend.

Gulf Mission Network The Gulf Mission Network consists of 19 churches from the Yorke Peninsula. The network exists to encourage churches from the same geographical area in mission, worship and fellowship. Our main way of doing this is through combined meetings that are held three times a year. We endeavour to hold a meeting in each of the member churches on a rotational basis and, in particular, some of our smaller congregations have found these combined meetings that ‘fill’ their churches to be most encouraging.

In 2012 and 2013, our meeting in the middle of the year has been for the sole purpose of a combined worship service. These services have been most encouraging and inspirational. The 2012 service was held at Maitland, with the guest preacher being the then-Moderator, Rev Rob Williams, who preached a Gospel sermon that encouraged us all in our discipleship. The service also featured great singing with a band comprised of people from a number of the network churches. A shared meal followed the service.

The 2013 combined service was held at the Stansbury Uniting Church, which was filled to capacity. Guest speaker Rev Dr Vicki Balabanski, New Testament lecturer at Uniting College, preached another inspirational Gospel message. Local country Gospel singer David Crosier helped us all praise the Lord through song. Again, a shared meal followed.

These combined worship services have been so successful that another is planned for mid-2014 at Wallaroo Uniting Church.

The guest speaker on this occasion will be the current Moderator, Dr Deidre Palmer. The Gulf Mission Network is in ‘good heart’ and we cherish and look forward to our combined meetings.

Northern Rural Mission Network Over the past two years, the Northern Rural Mission Network has been minimally operational – but this does not mean that nothing is happening!

Small, rural congregations make up the majority of Northern Rural, which was formed on a geographical basis rather than through a shared theological viewpoint. Many of the congregations continue to function through lay leadership; Northern Rural provides support and

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mission networks encouragement, and is able to intervene in rare cases where problems occur.

The network is committed to sponsoring an annual training day in Jamestown organised by Mission Resourcing SA. This event, which is open to members of all mission networks, continues to be wellattended each year as people from the Uniting Church join together to learn and be inspired.

Northern Rural currently sponsors a student, Mary-Grace Bingham, at Uniting College of Leadership & Theology. There is also opportunity for other members of congregations in the network to receive financial assistance if wishing to study at Uniting College.

Urban Mission Network (UMN) The Urban Mission Network comprises 35 congregations and two faith communities located in communities across the state.

Member congregations share a clear understanding of being called to give witness to the love of God in Christ as word and deed in environments which are primarily urban, secular and culturally diverse. They have a sense of mission in the wider community, and share a conviction that we must engage with that community to allow the Gospel to bring about personal and social transformation.

Quarterly gatherings are the centrepiece of our networking. Hosted by one of our congregations, the program includes celebrative worship, a time of teaching or exploration of issues, and, over a relaxed meal, space to encourage each other in ministry and mission, share resources and provide mutual support. A collage featuring photos of the Minister(s) in Placement and ‘happy snaps’ of each congregation’s life runs quietly in the background.

Main forms of communication include our website, a monthly bulletin and regular personal contact at important events and special occasions, Network-wide and across the Presbytery/Synod. Priority is given to promoting programs and events hosted by the two Synod Centres embedded in UMN congregations.

The Coordinator worships with one of the congregations in the Network one Sunday per month to reinforce, particularly to smaller congregations, that they are not alone and that their ministry and mission is valued and supported.

Hosted by the UMN and in partnership with the Presbytery, Community Outreach Mission Network and Uniting College for Leadership & Theology, the main teaching event, a Workshop for Church Councils, is offered in February and July. In earlier years UMN partnered with the Presbytery to offer a Grant Writing Workshop and a Workshop for Congregations with Heritage Listed Buildings.

Continuing education opportunities and spiritual formation events include: • An annual retreat day for refreshment of heart and mind.

• Informal barbeques twice a year, which have become an invaluable time for ministers, Ministers in Association, retired ministers, Candidates for Ministry, and chaplains aligned with UMN to relax, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

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•

Paid administrators who staff offices across UMN and the wider Presbytery who continue to meet regularly to support each other, share resources, expertise and knowledge.

• Until 2014, “Windows into the Text” provided opportunity to gain insights into the following year’s Gospel. This year, UMN will support Rosefield Uniting Church’s teaching weekend focussing on the Gospel of Matthew in May and the Association of Mission Studies Conference in October.

The Urban Mission Network warmly welcomes members of the wider Synod/Presbytery to any and all of its events and programs. For further information, please contact the UMN Coordinator, Christine Secombe, on 8332 8339 or christine@urbannetwork.org.au

Western Mission Network The Western Mission Network consists of the following geographically linked congregations scattered over Eyre Peninsula: Arno Bay, Ceduna, Cleve, Coffin Bay, Coolanie, Elliston, Kimba, Koinonia Faith Community (Port Lincoln), Lipson, Poochera, Poonindie, Port Neill, Streaky Bay, Tumby Bay, Wudinna and Minnipa.

The aim of our Network is to provide mutual support and encouragement to each of the congregations represented. This is achieved by developing relationships, sharing mission initiatives, supporting each other in mission growth and sharing resources.

We usually hold two meetings per year – one in March and the other in August. The meetings are held in Elliston Uniting Church, except for the times we have held “Refresh” events at Lock.

The format of the gatherings includes a time of worship, sharing resources and announcements, fellowship over cups of tea and lunch, a time of teaching or workshop, and a time for each congregation to share their joys and burdens, followed by prayer.

One of the highlights of our times together is hearing what is happening in the congregations throughout the Peninsula. Some of the events and mission initiatives held in 2013 included special Easter and carol services, ecumenical services, fun-raising events, children’s ministry activities, and local community outreach events.

We have continued to provide grants up to $500 to congregations for outreach projects in their worship services and in their communities.

The grants have been used for a variety of mission initiatives: multimedia resources; laptop computer for data projector; craft materials for kid’s club activities; an isolated church’s centenary celebrations; audio equipment for worship services; and ministers’ camp expenses.

Although we are a small network and many of our rural towns and congregations are declining in numbers, we will continue to provide support, training through workshops, fellowship and networking and resources to the congregations dotted throughout the Eyre Peninsula.

If you would like to contact any of the mission networks, please contact New Times on 8236 4230 or newtimes@sa.uca.org.au

g e t t i n g t o k n o w. . .

Lameroo Uniting Church Lameroo is a small, isolated country town in the South Australian Mallee, just over 200 kilometres east of Adelaide. The town’s first Methodist Church building was erected in 1906, and the current hall was built in 1985. Since its establishment, Lameroo has built a reputation as a caring church family who are welcoming, friendly and down-to-earth. The congregation is also unique in having spent the last 10 years without a minister.

The people of Lameroo aim to be faithful witnesses of God’s love to the congregation’s members and the wider community, to engage the congregation in faith development and in searching for answers about God, and to encourage all to live by trust and faith.

The Lameroo congregation comes together for a morning service every Sunday. This service is usually held at 9.30am but will be pushed to 10.30am to accommodate visiting church leaders. Approximately 25-30 people regularly attend each service.

The Lameroo worship team is responsible for arranging the church’s preaching plan and inviting people to conduct services; the team conducts worship services at Lameroo at least once a month. They also hold services at the Lameroo Day Centre, which provides programmes for people with disabilities, older people, and those with dementia and related disorders.

Lameroo is also home to an active children’s programme, Kids Zone.

The programme is run every Sunday during term time and usually attracts about seven children. In 2013, Kids Zone leaders also operated a successful school holiday programme, “God, the Sea & Me,” which was well-attended by people from the local community. Children from the Lameroo congregation and the wider community also join together every year to attend KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in

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Australia] Camp Out). This year, 20 children signed on to take part in the event. The Lameroo children’s programmes are strongly supported by the congregation.

In small communities, pastoral care can be a struggle for churches without ordained ministry. As people within the town know each other so well, problems are not always easily shared. However, Lameroo is blessed by the Ministry of Pastoral Carers who regularly visit our town every couple of months to provide pastoral care to church members and the community.

On Sunday 26 October, the Lameroo Adult Fellowship will celebrate its centenary with a church service led by State Fellowship President, Rev Lindsay Faulkner. Members regularly attend monthly meetings and are passionate about missions. They are involved in special ecumenical events like the World Day of Prayer (7 March) and the Combined Churches Day. The Lameroo congregation also financially supports the House of Hope in the Philippines, as well as supporting Uniting Church missions locally and overseas. Closer to home, Lameroo supports a Christian Pastoral Support Worker at Lameroo Regional Community School, both financially and through the prayer chain.

On the fifth Sunday of the month, the congregation joins other Lameroo churches in ecumenical services. In 2013, the churches joined together for special services on Easter and Christmas Day. This year they have planned a Palm Sunday walk/drive visiting all churches in the town.

Lameroo Uniting Church is grateful to the many ministers and lay preachers who assist them in keeping the congregation active and engaged. They feel blessed to be part of the family of God.

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reviews

Reaching out This month we have chosen to review the album Tell Me You’re Alive, released by Ruby Charlotte, a young person involved in the life of Naracoorte Uniting Church. Regular book reviews will return in the April edition of New Times. The recording of the album is the culmination of the artist’s Year 12 research project.

Sounds like: Missy Higgins, Birdy Influences: Taylor Swift, Barlow Girl, Superchick, Georgia Germein Facebook: facebook.com/RubyCharlotteMusic Buy it from: True Vine (Naracoorte), The Veg Shed (Naracoorte), Bronny’s (Mount Gambier), Dale Cleves Music (Mount Gambier), Scots Church Adelaide, iTunes Tell Me You’re Alive is an eclectic selection of music and lyrics written by talented young musician Ruby Charlotte. She is supported by band members Kimberly Francis, Joey Dow, Clancy Dow, Chelsea Homan and Emma Becroft. Ruby Charlotte’s lifelong love of music shines through the album as she shares her experiences of high school through songs that are sometimes pensive, sometimes bold.

Through Tell Me You’re Alive, Ruby Charlotte seeks to give advice from one teenager to another through her vital lyrics about friendship and spirituality.

The album particularly promotes positive mental health and does not shy away from asking hard questions about consequences of negative behaviour. The upbeat melody of the first track, “Liar, Liar,” features lyrics that speak of the dangers of seeking acceptance in the wrong place. Mental health is a central theme throughout the album, and is particularly evident in the track “To Write Love on Her Arms.”

This song engages with the idea of supporting young people who are struggling with mental health issues, and is named after an American not-for-profit organisation who reach out to people in these situations.

“Music is so powerful, and a person’s soul can be impacted or touched by lyrics,” says Ruby Charlotte. “Lots of people turn to harmful behaviours when they need to escape from what’s going on, and listening to music can be a really safe alternative to this. I pray my music will impact people in this way.”

The engaging and soulful words of Ruby Charlotte are set to challenge your thinking.

Lisa Birch

diary PANCAKE DAY. UnitingCare Pancake Day will be run on Tuesday 4 March.

Marking the beginning of Lent, Pancake Day is a fantastic event focussed on community, learning, enjoying activity together and, most of all, helping one another. Funds raised at Pancake Day events across the state will go towards supporting work undertaken by UnitingCare agencies. For more information, please visit sa.pancakeday.com.au or call 1800 060 543.

A NIGHT WITH DAVE MALE, a training event for young adults and young adult leaders, will be held on Wednesday 12 March, 7pm at Burnside City Uniting Church, 384 Portrush Road, Tusmore. Dave Male holds numerous teaching positions in the United Kingdom, particularly in the areas of fresh expressions, pioneer learning, evangelism and mission-shaped ministry. For more information about this event, please call 8236 4266 or email unitingyoungadults@sa.uca.org.au AN AFTERNOON OF MUSIC. The Barton Singers will present an afternoon of music with guest artists Three Parts and a Diva at the Corner Uniting Church, 93 Oaklands Road, Warradale. Sunday 16 March at 2pm, followed by afternoon tea. Adults $12; Concession $10; Family $25. For further information, please call 8350 5400.

ECUMENICAL QUIET DAY – the Lord’s Prayer. A time of input, prayer and reflection during Lent. To be led by The Most Rev Jeffrey Driver, Rev Rob Williams and Dr Patricia Fox RSM. Saturday 22 March, 9.30am arrival for a 10am start; concludes at 2.30pm. Christ Church, 62 Jeffcott Street, North Adelaide. $5 contribution invited on the day. BYO snack/lunch. Tea and coffee provided. RSVP is essential. For further information or to RSVP, call 8215 0300 or email sacc@picknowl.com.au STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP. Tuesday 25 March, 10.30 am at Scots Church. All are welcome to join in hearing the latest news from Sandra Pugsley about the Mwandi OVC programme in Zambia. Come early for morning tea and stay for lunch and fellowship, all $5.

A CLEAR CALL, the National Mission and Evangelism Conference of the Uniting Church in Australia, will be held from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 March. More than 15 speakers and presenters will be featured over the course of the weekend. To register, or to find out more, please call 8236 4200 or visit sa.uca.org.au/clear-call SA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES GENERAL MEETING. Saturday 5 April, 9am at the Otherway Centre, Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, 80 Payneham Road, Stepney. Main topic: stories with the people of the Otherway Centre.

All welcome. For further information or to RSVP, please call 8215 0300 or email sacc@picknowl.com.au PANWAKEMA MARKET. Saturday 12 April, 10am-2pm at Unley Uniting Church (187 Unley Road) and Edmond Terrace. Free entry. Market offering clothes, jewellery, homewares, children’s goods and more. Face-painting, a bouncy castle, sumo suits, raffles, food stalls and a Devonshire Tea Room will also be present. For further information call 0423 207 800 or email panwakema.inc@gmail.com

Youth and Young Adults Pastor

THE SPIRIT OF PLACE: Isle of Iona, Scotland at A Thin Place, a contemplative worship space built around stations and multimedia. Sunday 16 April, 5.30-6.30pm at the Corner Uniting Church – thecorner.org.au

Westbourne Park Uniting Church is seeking a 1.0 FTE Youth and Young Adults Pastor. This position will involve and integrated and visionary approach to Youth and Young Adults ministry.

Our vision is to be a vibrant, growing community who know Jesus and make him known.

For information about the position please contact the WPUC office by email wpuc@internode.on.net or phone 8271 7066.

Applications close Wednesday 12 March 2014.

100 YEAR CELEBRATION. Kensington Gardens Uniting Church will celebrate 100 years of Christian witness on Sunday 20 July 2014. A service at 2pm will be followed by fellowship and memories. Enquiries to 8331 8550 or jalomman@adam.com.au To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary’ in the subject line.

positionsvacant.sa.uca.org .au 20

letters to the editor

Justice for First Peoples

Lindsay Faulkner after the commissioning service that saw him assume the role of Uniting Church Adult Fellowship President.

Recognition and commissioning On Australia Day this year, several Uniting Church members were recognised for their work and service. Congratulations to all of those individuals, as well as the many volunteers who contribute valuably to the community.

Congratulations also go to Rev Lindsay Faulkner OAM who was recently appointed President of the Uniting Church Adult Fellowship.

On Sunday 2 February, Lindsay was commissioned into the role at a service held at Payneham Road Uniting Church. The many people present – including Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer – braved the sweltering heat to see Lindsay take on his new role.

classifieds RESTORE your phonographic records or tapes to near original quality & preserve them on CD Restore your faded 35mm slides to bright colour and preserve them on DVD. Ask us about VHS or MiniDV video tape & 8mm film to DVD conversion, SA MEDIAWORKS, Kent Town SA Ph: 8362 2251 samediaworks@soundtrack.net.au HOLIDAY APARTMENT. “By The Sea” self-catered furnished 3 br ground floor apartment on the Esplanade at Encounter Bay; Victor Harbor. a/c and nicely appointed. Relax with views to Granite and Wright Islands and watch the waves roll in. $170pn (min 2 nights) or $650 p.w.—see Dodd and Page website for photos and more details Ph Kerry @ Dodd and Page 8554 2029 or email kerry@doddand page.com.au HOPE VALLEY UC CHOIR. Hope Valley UC choir has vacancies for singers – in particular men’s voices and altos. If you enjoy choir singing please contact conductor, Graham Warren at 83375795 or 0400061571.

THE VALLEY SINGERS From Hope Valley Uniting Church has vacancies for harmony singers - in particular mens voices. If you enjoy praising God in song , please contact conductor Graham Warren 83775795 or 0400061571.

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I write as the minister of one church [Dean Whittaker is the Adelaide Congress Minister] that is very excited about A Destiny Together, a Week of Prayer and Fasting for Justice for the First Peoples from Monday 17 to Sunday 23 March.

As an Aboriginal church which is deeply committed to praying for renewal and justice in this nation, we are thrilled that God and the national Assembly have identified this special week. We are delighted that a number of churches around South Australia (and beyond) are committing themselves to take the call to prayer and fasting seriously.

We believe that the Holy Spirit is blowing fresh winds through this event, which is crossing divisions within the church in healthy ways.

We believe that it is the right time, as a church, and on behalf of the nation, for people to say we need: - to stop and be still before God and seek God’s face.

- to take time to reflect, hear, lament, confess, repent, pray and thank God for the reality that the First People were here first, and are still here, in Australia.

- to confess and repent of all that which has caused so much destruction and loss in First Peoples’ communities, that Second Peoples benefit from.

- to ask God to release something new in the relationships between First and subsequent peoples in Australia.

- to pray that God raises up leaders in the First and Second Peoples with a vision for a destiny together that respects and addresses the rights of the First Peoples of South Australia to the actual occupation and enjoyment in their own persons and in the persons of their descendants of any Lands in South Australia that were actually occupied or enjoyed by First Peoples at the time of settlement (as promised by the Letters Patent).

In times past, and even today, many churches have found incredible life and deep hope in the practice of prayer and fasting. The Assembly has invited us to dare to go deeper in this area.

Many of our churches in South Australia seem grimly stuck in a white, ageing demographic. Perhaps, as we seek to pray and fast and listen, both to God and to those who have experience in this area (e.g. many First Peoples, many of the more recent Christian arrivals to Australia, intercessors, etc.), we will be able to confess our own bondage and brokenness, and reach out afresh.

God is doing something exciting. Please consider how you might be involved.

D. Whittaker, Salisbury North Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or PO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.

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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Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the team at UC Invest

Thanks to your support we have contributed $1.68 million to the Church in 2013.

Invest with someone who invests in your community.

Visit us at ucinvest.com.au or call us on 1300 274 151.

UC Invest is an activity of The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.) ABN 25 068 897 781, the legal entity of the Uniting Church SA. Investment services are provided on behalf of the Uniting Church SA pursuant to ASIC Policy Statement 87 exemptions and APRA Banking Exemption No. 1 of 2013 (“The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.)�). Neither UC Invest nor the Uniting Church SA are prudentially supervised by APRA. Investments and contributions lodged with UC Invest will not benefit from the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act (1959). All products offered by UC Invest are designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the Uniting Church SA.

magazine

The battle to find meaning Mandy Harvey

“Mum, why are we here?”

When my then-eight year old son asked me this question, I was taken aback.

“What do you mean?” I replied.

“Well, why are we here? I can’t work out what the point is.”

This question came from the mind of an eight year old boy; how much more might such musings affect us if they remain unanswered as we grow older?

Meaning is something that, I believe, we all crave. I have known many people over the years, including myself and other Christians, who have struggled to find meaning, particularly in their working lives, which many find unenjoyable or stressful.

My own work is as a pharmacy assistant in a chemist shop close to my home. It is an ordinary job – the kind of work that millions of people do every day – so it may surprise you to learn that I see this job as ministry, an act of worship, with deep meaning. Treating my work this way has not come easily – I used to think that the church building should be the centre of Christian meaning and activity in my life. I no longer believe this to be true. It is, I believe, God’s intention that we see all parts of our lives as sacred moments, offerings to God that are just as holy as the hour we spend at church on a Sunday morning.

But how is it possible to genuinely treat the ordinary daily grind as a truly sacred moment? Finding meaning does not come easily to me. I fight not to fall back into my old habits of just going through the motions.

However, by solid engagement with personal discipleship practices, I am able to find what I need to grow in the awareness that God is in all we do (details of my personal discipleship practices can be found in “The lost art of discipleship” on page 15 of the February 2014 edition of New Times). It is in the knowledge that God can use the small things, the tiny gestures, and the little acts of kindness to change lives that can give each of us meaning in all that we do. God can use anything we do as a source of transformation, even just a smile.

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Sometimes I wonder if this kind of thinking is arrogance on my part – who am I to think that what I do for a living can transform lives?

But it’s not actually about what I can do at all; it’s about being fully aware of what God can do with just one tiny offering to bless and transform. We are all, with our hands firmly grasped by God, able to make a difference by choosing to see every moment of our lives as sacred and of use to God. Even if what we have to offer is small. If we know this to be true, if we really know it, then we will find meaning in everything that we do. As Jesus himself said, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” (Luke 6:10 NIV) If you’d like to know more about the discipleship practices of contemplative spirituality, consider contacting the Stillpoint Spirituality Centre by calling 8178 0048 or sending an email to stillpoint@internode.com.au

April 4-6...........Weintal Resort, Tanunda June 20-22...........Lyndoch Hill Retreat, Lyndoch Aug 29-31...........Lyndoch Hill Retreat, Lyndoch Oct 31- Nov 2...........Weintal Resort, Tanunda

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magazine

From charity to capacity building Christa Megaw

Global poverty is one of the most critical challenges facing our world today. In many countries there is an increasing divide between the wealthy and the very poor. Despite this, there has been considerable progress in alleviating poverty over the last 13 years. One of the reasons for this is that, in 2000, Australia and other members of the United Nations signed up to support the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to halve hunger and extreme poverty by 2015. Overseas aid has assisted in progressing many of these goals, but there is still a long way to go.

At the Presbytery and Synod meeting last October, a presentation was given to encourage South Australian Uniting Church congregations to engage with the MDGs and become part of the movement to alleviate global poverty. The Millennium Development Goals fit within the holistic picture of building relationships with God, with others, with ourselves and the environment.

Eradicating hunger, improving maternal health, reducing child mortality and empowering women are just some of the shared goals being addressed by current projects. The Uniting Church in SA is working with partner churches to support livelihood development in West Papua, training midwives in South Sudan, and partnering with women in Kiribati. Peacebuilding and advocacy in Papua New Guinea is another important project as there can be no lasting change without peace.

In the past, the focus has been on churches in Australia giving to poor people in overseas countries. Charity – providing relief funds to those who are poor – is important in times of disaster and emergency.

However, working with communities has proven far more helpful than doing things for them; long-term capacity building programmes provide more effective and sustainable change in communities.

A major part of starting to work with communities involves finding out what God is already doing. In the Western world we tend to want impressive results in a hurry, but for worthwhile and long-lasting change to take place, the process needs to be taken slowly.

A part of this process involves building relationships of trust and integrity with our partner churches. Development projects are one aspect of relationships that have been built over time, usually including mutual visits and solidarity on critical issues. The concerns, needs and

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cultures of our partner churches are diverse and understanding these is vital to establishing community projects.

Projects are most effective when the local people are able to take ownership of them and, as such, they need to be established according to local cultural norms. This is particularly important when working with poor communities as they often have been disempowered in the past by other groups taking control. The local people are the ones who know their history, their people and their issues – they are the best people to work towards a better future for their community.

Congregations and individuals within the Uniting Church in SA have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with these projects, and to support the MDGs, through Lent Event this year. This engagement will help to strengthen relationships between the Uniting Church and our partner churches as we celebrate being part of the universal church.

Together we are working towards creating a world where God’s peace, compassion and justice are evident.

For further information on the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), please visit un.org/millenniumgoals or contact the Uniting Church SA Moderator’s office on 8236 4221.

For further information on Lent Event, please visit lentevent.com or call (02) 8267 4267.

For further information on Uniting Church SA partner churches, please call Christa Megaw on 8236 4203, call Adam Tretheway on 8236 4239 or visit sa.uca.org.au/international-mission

Sesquicentenary Celebrations 2015 Wesley Uniting Church Kent Town To celebrate the 150 years since the opening of the Church at Kent Town a number of events are being planned for people to have the opportunity to celebrate this occasion, to give thanks for this Church’s role in proclaiming the Christian gospel and the influence this magnificent building as a House of God has had on the lives of so many people.

To begin planning the celebrations a small committee is now seeking the names of people who would be interested in joining with us during 2015.

If you and those who you know who would like to be on the mailing list to receive information about the activities, please email the contact details to tori@robee.com or forward them to Wesley Uniting Church, 150yr celebrations, 27 Grenfell Street, Kent Town SA 5067

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