New Times - December 2015

Issue 34, No 11, 2015

The voice of Uniting Church SA

December 2015

Grace THE GIFT OF GRACE

AMAZING GRACE

Thoughts on grace

The issue of

and grief

modern day slavery

p. 9

p. 11

Contents FEATURES Presbytery and Synod meeting

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The gift of grace Simple gifts make all the difference New Times survey

9 14-15 24

REGULAR PAGES Moderator ’ s comment

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CEO/General Secretary ’ s comment

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Letters 20 Diary 21

Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Communications Design: Winaya Kamaputri 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) 8236 4260 e. newtimesad@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: 9,250 Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie St, Adelaide p. (08) 8236 4200 f. 8236 4201 country callers. 1300 766 956

Help save lives over Christmas & New Year The festive season is a critical time for many people – a time when Lifeline Adelaide will answer more calls for help.

Your support will train volunteers to save lives.

Help make a vital difference to those in our community at greater risk of suicide.

A service of Uniting Communities.

Please donate now.

www.unitingcommunities.org/donate

Next edition: February/March 2016 Next year will see some changes to New Times with print editions being reduced from 11 per year to six. New Times will no longer use themes in 2016, ensuring the most newsworthy and thought-provoking pieces are able to be included. Deadlines for 2016 are available at sa.uca.org.au/ new-times DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016:

Friday 22 January

Cover details

The symbol of a wreath has significant meaning at Christmas time. Its circular shape represents eternity, as it has no beginning and no end. The material a wreath is made of also has historical significance. Wreaths made of holly represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus upon the cross. Evergreens symbolise growth and everlasting life. The wreath has also evolved to become a sign of welcome and an acknowledgement of the Christmas season.

editorial

Change as a call for grace On Sunday 8 November, a particularly hot afternoon, I had the privilege of attending a celebration of ordination at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church.

The occasion marked 50 years since ordination for 11 ministers, five of whom have passed away – Thomas Atherton, Don Bell, John Cameron (deceased), Cecil Duke (deceased), Lindsay Faulkner, Jim Gallagher, Ray Gifford (deceased), Lewis Kelsall Sr (deceased), Lewis Kelsall Jr, Duncan Morris (deceased) and David Purling. The event was a wonderful celebration of the ministry of these men.

As part of the service, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney shared a message, speaking about the rich history of the Uniting Church in Australia and the need to accept that the Church has changed. With my mind already on this edition of New Times, I was struck by the role grace plays in accepting – even contributing to or welcoming – change.

For many, change is something that is difficult to deal with. When we are used to things being a certain way, and have always liked them that way, a change to the way things are done is often unwelcome.

However, change is often necessary and positive, even in cases where it is not entirely welcome.

In his message, Andrew spoke about the changes to the way churches interact with community or conduct their services, as well as the growth of culturally and linguistically diverse church communities.

There are tremendous opportunities for the Church to be revitalised through these areas.

Focussing on opportunity, rather than loss, is something I have been trying to do over the past few months as I ’ ve gone through periods of change both at work and in my personal life.

With this in mind, I want to inform you of some changes to New Times that will be occurring in 2016. It was recently decided that the number of print editions to be produced next year would be cut from 11 to six. As a result of this change, there will be an increase in the amount of online content the Communications team produces.

“Across ” was launched on the Uniting Church SA website earlier this year. It features articles, links and other media relevant to the Uniting Church community. In 2016, the name of this space will be changed to “New Times ” , building on the rich history of the print publication and attracting a broader demographic of readers.

Growing this online space means there will be another avenue for contributions from members and congregations. It will also allow space for leaders and members of the Uniting Church to express opinions over current news and events in a timely manner. Articles will be easy to share through social media and other online platforms, connecting the Uniting Church SA with a wider audience. I believe these are all positive changes, and hope they will encourage you to continue sending contributions to New Times.

The Communications team is dedicated to producing high quality

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Ministers, and family members of ministers, receive recognition of 50 years since ordination.

content that informs, reaches and inspires members right across the entire Uniting Church SA community. The New Times editorial team will continue to work towards this end – both online and in print.

We are excited about the new opportunities this change provides to serve Christ and the Uniting Church in 2016 – and beyond.

Catherine Hoffman

Placements News Placements finalised since the November edition of New Times: Paul Glazbrook (MOP) to Parkin/Sturt Remote Area Ministry from 1 January 2016 Nick Patselis (Candidate for MOW) to Salisbury Uniting Church from 1 February 2016 Vacant placements: The following is the current list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Profiles available – Ascot Community Church (0.8); Ceduna and Districts (0.5); County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Kalparrin and Murraylands Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (0.5); Keith “One Church ” (Uniting Church and Church of Christ); Lefevre UC (from 1 January 2016); Lower Murray Linked Congregations (includes a 0.3 Presbytery Placement component); Malvern and Unley (from 1 March 2016); Tumby Bay and Districts (0.5); Parafield Gardens (from 1 January 2016); Summertown (0.6) (from 1 February 2016); Whyalla.

Profiles not yet available – ConneXions (0.5) (from 1 January 2016); Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations (from January 2016); Marion / Warradale; South West Fleurieu Linked Congregations (0.6).

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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moderator

Signs of God ’ s grace Grace has been described as the unmerited, freely given love of God. Gracious behaviour may be experienced as “unexpected kindness ” , or people “going beyond what is necessary or required ” . Grace expressed in our lives may be seen as a generosity of spirit that is nurtured by the Spirit of Christ within us.

Over the past two months, I have experienced gracious hospitality in a number of settings. On at least two of these occasions, the grace has been extended to a community of people.

In late November, I was part of a joint gathering of the Assembly Formation, Education and Discipleship working group and the Assembly Mission and Evangelism Network. Together we sponsored a colloquium on “Forming Disciples of Jesus Christ in God ’ s Mission ” .

During this time, we were guests of the Korean Church of Melbourne, who were gracious and hospitable hosts. They were generous in the ways they provided meals, and in their giving of their time and energy to share with us about their various ministries.

I also experienced gracious hospitality during a visit with UnitingWorld to the squatter settlement of Nanuku in Suva, Fiji.

As the Uniting Church, we support our partner, the Fijian Methodist Church, in its ministries in Nanuku. We particularly support educational resources for the children and young people of the community. This project is featured in UnitingWorld ’ s “Everything in Common ” gift catalogue.

During our visit, we were warmly welcomed into worship with the Nanuku community. The children and young people led us in singing, which included the song “His banner over me is love ” . We shared in a delicious meal of curry, roti bread and various vegetable dishes.

While this community has limited resources, they warmly welcomed us and provided generously for us. I was struck by the graciousness of our hosts, and recalled the meals through which Jesus offered God ’ s grace.

As we enter into Advent and Christmas, we are particularly aware of God ’ s love poured out. This is love that flooded a hillside with light and people ’ s hearts with hope, as the angels announced to the shepherds the gift of a baby who would – unexpectedly perhaps! – be the Saviour of the world.

When we live our daily lives, personally and communally, in the light of God ’ s grace given in Jesus Christ, we are transformed. As the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to see the world as God sees it, we become a people of gratitude, compassion and grace. As we experience God ’ s gift to us, we are called to be a gift of hope and light to the world.

At Christmas, we see signs of God ’ s grace all around us. We invite people into our homes, we reach out to others, and we give gifts to our international partner churches. We host events for our communities,

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Dr Deidre Palmer (centre) with members of the Nanuku community.

and we receive unexpected gifts of love and care. We do “above and beyond ” things at Christmas because God ’ s amazing grace calls forth from us a generosity, arising from God ’ s gift. As we are blessed, we seek to be a blessing to others.

May God ’ s grace and peace be with you this Christmas and always!

Dr Deidre Palmer

A Christmas message Every year, the Uniting Church SA Moderator presents a Christmas message. The 2015 message will be made available in video and text formats on the Uniting Church SA website (sa.uca.org.au) in December. Links to the message will be provided through UC e-News and on through the “Uniting Church. Uniting People. ” Facebook page (facebook.com/UnitingChurch.UnitingPeople) when it becomes available.

ce o / ge n e ral se cre ta r y

Gifting grace across generations At a function recently, someone asked me, “Have you become a South Australian yet? ” In response, I quipped, “I fear I will never be a fully fledged South Australian because I don ’ t support the right football team. ” After a bit of a laugh and some conversation about which football team I support, we moved on to discussing the state of the Uniting Church.

On the way home from the function, I began reflecting on what legitimises someone ’ s identity. To be known as anything in our society requires legitimately meeting some written or unwritten standard. For instance, can a person be truly South Australian if their heritage and history is not grounded here?

In turning this thinking to Christianity it is clear that God ’ s grace changes everything.

Grace, as a concept, is often spoken of as being “unmerited favour ” . What favour does God graciously offer all people? The most expansive work of God ’ s grace is to draw people into God ’ s life without a standard needing to be met. Therefore, anyone can be legitimised as God ’ s own. God draws near to people without prejudice or comparison. The loving approach of God to us provides people with the opportunity to respond in kind. This basis for a relationship between God and humanity underscores the framework for the church to grow.

The regeneration of the Uniting Church is one of the most pressing responsibilities facing all people in our denomination. A commitment to regenerating the Church requires a collaborative approach – an “in it together ” perspective. It also needs a view that not everything about the Uniting Church is broken and busted. In fact, there is so much that we can build on and strengthen as a denomination. Therefore, with respect to the Uniting Church, together we can “make it stronger ” .

In moving together to make the Uniting Church stronger, our direction hinges on one necessary act of grace – the generational transition of the church ’ s life. Generational transition is risky, and this article cannot carry all the practical realities and questions around this activity. What does need to be identified, though, is that this transition is an act of grace. Generational transition does not require one generation to give up its influence. Rather, the graciousness of the transition is found in the way in which the influential generation gives permission for other generations to enter fully into the life of a congregation, especially in its decision-making.

God ’ s grace draws people into God ’ s life. In doing so, Christ calls us co-heirs. He shares of what he has so that we can have all we need to fully participate in what God is up to in our world. There is no clearer evidence of God sharing life with us than the way that he took on flesh and lived among us.

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Rev Nigel Rogers (left) with other Synod General Secretaries, giving thanks for the 15-year service of Rev Terence Corkin (centre) in the role of Assembly General Secretary.

As it is with Christ so it needs to be with us. None of us own Christ ’ s church. We are co-heirs in it. That is our graciously legitimised place as God ’ s people. This attitude is what we pass on through the generations.

My prayer is that God ’ s grace, manifest in generational transition across the Uniting Church, will be the prevailing legacy that we leave for those who belong to the Church in the decades to come.

Rev Nigel Rogers

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news

Discussions and decisions at P&S The October meeting of the Uniting Church SA Presbytery and Synod was held at Adelaide West Uniting Church from Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 October. Key points from the meeting have been summarised for New Times. More detail is available in the meeting minutes, which are available at sa.uca.org.au/pres-synod-meetings/29-31-October-2015

Dr Deidre Palmer and Rev Yong Soo Song at the recognition of ministry service.

Penny Pancake visits an aged care home for Pancake Day in 2015.

Children participating in the activities at KCO is 2015.

Recognition of ministry A recognition of ministry service was held at Adelaide West during the Friday evening session of the October meeting, celebrating the past and future ministry of many within the Uniting Church.

Ten retired or retiring ministers were recognised for their faithful service to the Church – Gerry Hodges, Matt Curnow, Jenny Swanbury, Graham Vawser, Brian Scott, Rob Stoner, Geoff Ellery, Ian Kitto, Ken Wright and Ian Giles.

Rev Yong Soo Song, who was joined by his family at the service, was recognised as a minister in the Uniting Church having moved from another denomination.

Having moved from the Queensland Synod earlier this year, Rev Kerry Pierce was formally inducted as Lecturer in Pastoral Care at Uniting College for Leadership & Theology.

She has been serving in this role since July.

Five people were recognised as they transition from Phase 3 to Phase 4 in their ministry – Douglas Monaghan, Peter Riggs, Nathan Whillas, Michael Dowling and Dieter Engler.

Pancake Day Julianne Rogers presented an enthusiastic “Thank You ” to the Presbytery and Synod for their strong support of UnitingCare Pancake Day and the Christmas Appeal.

“Besides being delicious, Pancake Day is a great way for congregations to show their support for the work of UnitingCare organisations in the community, ” said Julianne.

“The funds raised by Pancake Day enable grants to be made to organisations for projects that benefit vulnerable members of society.

With the ever-increasing demand, Pancake Day becomes more important each year.

Pancake Day is early next year on 9 February, so register today! ” In 2016, Pancake Day (Shrove Tuesday) will fall on Tuesday 9 February. For more information, please visit pancakeday.com.au

Intergenerational ministry In a report relating to intergenerational ministry, members of the Uniting Young People team and KCO Executive spoke about the future of KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out) and SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out).

KCO will have a new date and venue in 2016 – it will be held at Adare Caravan Park from 10-11 September. SAYCO will be held at Woodcroft College from 1-3 October.

Members affirmed the Church ’ s long-term commitment to KCO and SAYCO. Mission Resourcing will hold SAYCO and KCO consultations over the next few months.

The gatherings provide an opportunity to hear from local congregations to assist in developing a sustainable model for KCO and SAYCO that will serve local churches for discipleship with young people.

Initial consultation gatherings have been held in November, with more being arranged for December and beyond. Gatherings will be held at a variety of times and venues to cater to the needs of as wide a group as possible.

Future dates and locations for the gatherings will be shared via UC e-News and Facebook.

For more information, please contact Melissa Neumann on uyp@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4246.

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news

Left to right: Dr Deidre Palmer, Rev Sue Ellis, Uniting Church President Stuart McMillan and Rev Nigel Rogers.

Sharonne Price with Rev Beth Seaman.

UnitingWomen presenter Katheryn Curnow speaks to Dr Deidre Palmer.

Moderator-Elect announcement Three nominees for the position of Moderator-Elect shared messages with those gathered at the meeting, and Rev Sue Ellis was later elected to the position.

Sue has served as a minister in rural and urban placements, as the Rural Resourcing Minister, and on various Uniting Church committees and councils. Sue ’ s vision for the Uniting Church SA is linked to the image of the mustard seed/tree in Matthew ’ s gospel.

Upon being announced as the ModeratorElect, Sue spoke about her hope that the work of the Church will continue to grow and “spread its branches ” as seeds are planted.

New Times hopes to include a profile of Sue in an edition early next year.

Appreciation of ministry and service The Presbytery and Synod resolved to place on record its appreciation for the ministry and service of Sharonne Price, who is stepping down from her position as Executive Officer, Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning. Revs Beth Seaman and Phil Gardner, members of the Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning team, shared their deep appreciation of Sharonne ’ s six years of service and the caring way she dealt with the challenges of the role.

Sharonne offered her own thoughts, and her thanks for the support of her colleagues and family. She will conclude her placement in January 2016.

Later in the meeting, Rev Ruthmary Bond was also recognised for her ministry and contributions to the Uniting Church, noting the conclusion of her placement as Evangelism and Fresh Expressions Officer.

Ruthmary will continue to serve in her 0.5 FTE placement at CitySoul Uniting Church where she also oversees the Experience Cafe.

UnitingWomen 2016 Dr Deidre Palmer and Bindy Taylor presented an informative session about the upcoming UnitingWomen conference to be held in Adelaide from 28 April-1 May, 2016. They spoke about some of the women who will be speaking and contributing to the conference.

Katheryn Curnow, one of the presenters, also spoke to a gathering over afternoon tea.

More information about registration, speakers and workshops is available at unitingwomen.org.au

National Church Life Survey Meeting attendees engaged in considerable discussion over the potential benefits and costs of participating in the next National Church Life Survey (NCLS). It was decided that Rev Dr Amelia Koh-Butler (Executive Officer, Mission Resourcing) would continue negotiations with the NCLS to enable Uniting Church SA participation in the 2016 survey.

In memoriam The gathered members stood in silence to acknowledge those who have died since the 2014 October/November meeting of the Presbytery and Synod, expressing their gratitude for their contribution to the ministry and mission of the Uniting Church.

Those recognised were William (Bill) Howell Edwards, Robert Allan Drummond, Mervyn Vivian Norman and David Smith.

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Smith of Dunesk Trust Rev Phil Hoffmann and Nelson Varcoe, Chairperson of TACL (Training Aboriginal Christian Leaders), presented a proposal asking that the Presbytery and Synod acknowledge the transfer of the invested funds of the former Smith of Dunesk Trust to TACL, and recognise the long-standing service of Jim Hayward to the Trust. The rationale for this proposal contained an informative history of the Smith of Dunesk Trust, which can be read in the proposals document available at sa.uca.org.au/pressynod-meetings/29-31-October-2015

Ordinations The Presbytery resolved to ordain Priscilla Hein as a Deacon in the Uniting Church in Australia. Priscilla will be ordained at Adelaide West Uniting Church on Sunday 21 February; Nick Patselis will also be ordained on this occasion, having received a placement at Salisbury Uniting Church.

2016 Mission and Service Fund Budget Astrid Kuivasaari (General Manager, Resources) presented the 2016 Mission and Service Fund Budget, and outlined the revenue and expense categories of the Fund.

She also detailed the 2016 budget process, particularly the significant changes to income and expenditure which have helped ensure a balanced budget for 2016. The proposed budget was passed by consensus, approving the 2016 Mission and Service Fund Budget, and in particular, a break even operating budget (on an accrual basis) and a capital expenditure budget of $195,360.

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news Remote area ministry Sharonne Price (Executive Officer, Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning) outlined national changes to Frontier Services, inviting Pastors Gary Ferguson and Paul Glazbrook to share their experiences working in remote ministry. Paul particularly emphasised that people in remote communities “just want us to be there… It ’ s the little things that make a difference. ” Sharonne spoke about the recent redefinition of remote area ministry, which is reflected in the Remote Area Ministry Report.

The priorities of this ministry will change “just a tinge ” and will become a whole of church Uniting Church President Stuart McMillan and Rev Denise Champion led communion for the recognition of ministry service during the Friday evening session of the October meeting. responsibility. The two South Australian Denise also delivered a series of Bible studies over the course of the meeting. patrols will combine to one under the name Parkin-Sturt. Paul will take up this ministry Lay preachers ’ celebration International Mission on behalf of the Uniting Church SA. Max Howland, Chair of the Lay Preachers ’ A number of proposals relating to The Remote Area Ministry Report is Committee, addressed the members of the International Mission were presented to available at sa.uca.org.au/pres-synodPresbytery and Synod and spoke about the the gathering of the Presbytery and Synod, meetings/29-31-October-2015 importance of lay preachers in the life of all of which were passed by consensus.

Uniting Church congregations across South International Mission Officer Adrian Property Sale Proceeds Policy Australia. Many people have served as lay Nippress introduced these points, which Property Manager Geoff Watson introduced preachers within the Church, including the each had to do with developing the the Property Sale Proceeds Policy Review following who are celebrating anniversaries of relationships between the Uniting Church Team report (Geoff finished in his role in their ministry: SA and international partner churches in November; the new Property Manager will 30 years – Betty Emerson, Neville Pope the Philippines (North and Middle Luzon be announced in early 2016). Jan Trengove, and Cliff Proctor; 40 years – Colin Beaton, jurisdictions), Korea, Papua, Thailand and a member of the Review Team, spoke about Graham Galpin, John Howland, David Papua New Guinea. the new opportunities that would arise from Carver, John Napier, Malcolm Haskard, Peter More information about the decisions changes to property sales proceeds policy Russell and Doug Warmington; 50 years made regarding these relationships is available – largely, the opportunities congregations – Harold Benn and Enid Wurfel; 60 years – in the proposals document at sa.uca.org.au/ will be given to direct proceeds from Howard Pearce. pres-synod-meetings/29-31-October-2015 property sales.

Christmas resource An original, intergenerational Christmas resource has been created by the Uniting Young People team to fit with this year ’ s Christmas postcard theme – “Journeying together this Christmas. ” The resource includes an article about the role of magi in the Christmas story, general notes about all-age worship, suggested texts and songs related to the theme, and a scripted worship service focussed on engaging people of all ages and encompassing the 2016 theme.

For more information, please visit sa.uca.org.au/uyp/churchresources/all-age-worship or contact the Uniting Young People team on uyp@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4246.

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g ra c e

Grace is the love and mercy God continually gives – generously, freely and undeservedly. This grace was realised in Jesus Christ. This month ’ s edition of New Times explores the complex theme of grace, particularly in relation to the Christmas story and the love God demonstrated when he gave us his son.

The gift of grace Dr Tanya Wittwer

The participants in the Christmas Pageant all rose early. Sparkly costumes and greasepaint applied, uniforms ironed, and instruments warmed up and tuned. They might not have had time to listen to a news bulletin. But many of the families getting ready for the morning that ushers in the Christmas season in Adelaide would have tuned in to the tragic news of a series of violent attacks in Paris.

Meanwhile, my 20-something friend Rebecca was writing a Facebook message: “So, as many of you know, tomorrow is my birthday. However, it is not a happy one. Tomorrow, on my birthday, mum will move into hospice care. I am going to ask you all to hold me in your thoughts, but to refrain from wishing me a happy birthday… understand that I am grieving, not celebrating. ” A four year strategic campaign to destroy cancer has been unsuccessful, and the time has come for the family to cherish every minute, to tell the stories that haven ’ t been told, to speak out loud of the love that is there.

There is something that feels so wrong about the juxtaposition of the tinsel and joy with violence and mayhem, or of celebrating a birthday by looking death squarely in the face.

Yet, when we look past the cultural layers, we discover, again, the grace of Christmas in earthly reality. Grace, that God – wholly other, mysterious, majestic – comes to be among us, comes to be one of us.

Grace, that God would take on the vulnerability of a tiny human being, be born in a small town weighed down by military occupation, to parents prepared to risk everything to keep their baby safe.

I remain entranced by a line from a Leigh Newton song:

How can God be a helpless child

When God made it all and is still creating?* Was the One who is love ever loved so fiercely as by Mary? I find it hard to get my head around the idea of this young woman cuddling the very One that cradles the universe.

Rebecca ’ s mother recalls assuming the role of Mary in a Nativity play, with baby Rebecca in swaddling cloths. With her heart bursting with the love for her child, love for God and knowing God ’ s love came especially near for her in that moment. It was a profound experience that shaped her prayer life.

“When I pray ” , she wrote on Christmas Eve, a year after her diagnosis, “I try to remember that holding and being held. When I pray, I take both of my hands, palms up, and lay one on top of the other.

With the top hand, I experience being held. With the bottom hand, I

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practice holding.

“That is what we all get to do this night: hold the Christ Child and be held by him. That is what we can do each day. With each sharing of the peace, with each gift given, with each embrace… we hold that Christ Child closely. With each sorrow lifted up, with each grief shared, with each tear shed, with each prayer prayed, and with each sigh offered when words are done, we are held securely in Christ ’ s loving arms. ” ** God chooses to be enmeshed in the very fabric of God ’ s own creation by entering finite, creaturely existence. And with that choice God has chosen to know life and joy and birth and pain and suffering and death.

Whether the candles and carols can transport us again into the wonder of the incarnation, or whether we are in a space where pain cuts us off from feeling anything, God is there. God embraces humanity, and embraces the world. And in this embrace is found more hope and healing than can be found in the beauty of a Christmas tree or a cake blazing with birthday candles. This Christmas gift is truly grace. * In the Night, written for New Times in 1989. ** Koppenhoefer, Laura A . Notes on the Journey: Living with Sarcoma and Hope. Living in Hope Publishing: Rock Island, IL. 2014 p 202.

Dr Tanya Wittwer is Postgraduate Coordinator at Uniting College for Leadership & Theology.

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g ra c e

Grace – the giver and the gift The term grace is one that Catherine Hoffman feels very familiar with, having heard it talked about in sermons and Bible studies since she was a young girl. However, she realised she ’ d never really thought through the multitude of meanings the word has. Here Catherine attempts to outline some very basic definitions of grace in hope they might prove useful to other muddled minds.

There are many big, oft-uttered terms used in Christian circles that defy an easy, single definition. Grace is one of the most complex of these concepts.

In non-Christian spheres, grace usually refers to a person ’ s deportment – their appearance, the way they move or carry themselves. Or it has to do with good will; being polite, civil, showing respect.

In the New Testament, “grace ” is translated from the Greek word charis, which in secular circles meant “favour ” or less frequently, “kindness ” or “generosity ” . This is the kind of grace that we can extend to one another.

While these meanings hold true for the way charis is used in the Bible, it also encompasses something greater than this.

Almost all of the New Testament writers use the word grace at least once, with Paul using it almost double the amount of all the other writers combined. The theme of grace ultimately culminates with the coming of Christ: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory,

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the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth… Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. ” (John 1:14, 16-17) Through passages like this, we often come to think of grace as being a gift from God. Based on Ephesians 2:8-9, the United Methodist Church defines grace as “the love and mercy given to us by God because God wants us to have it, not because of anything we have done to earn it. ” This idea of grace as an unmerited favour or gift that God gave to humanity through the birth and death of Jesus, delivering eternal salvation, is often spoken about in Christian circles – particularly over the Christmas and Easter periods.

This definition often makes it easy to see grace as something separate to God – an idea that many theologians and Biblical scholars are quick to reject.

As Jeremy Treat, a pastor and author from the United States, writes in an article for the

Gospel Coalition: “Grace is not a thing. Grace is not stuff that God gives apart from himself… God gives us himself when we don ’ t deserve it; that is grace… Grace is a gift, but God is not only the giver, he himself is the gift. ” To summarise, finding a single definition of grace is difficult – and the multiple ways it is used within Christian circles can make things confusing. But there are ways we can engage with each of the meanings over the Christmas period.

Christmas is a time when we are called to show grace towards one another. This may be through acts of good will or doing someone a favour. We can show one another kindness and generously give our time and gifts to others.

As we consider Jesus ’ birth, and all that this mean, we are also reminded of the larger meaning of grace – of God as both gift and giver, source of our salvation.

g ra c e

Amazing grace – poverty and modern slavery Catherine Hoffman

Despite being illegal in every nation on earth, many forms of slavery still exist today. Estimates put the number of slaves in contemporary society at somewhere between 21 and 29 million.

Modern slavery is a topic that Adrian Nippress, Uniting Church SA Transforming Justice Coordinator, is passionate about.

“Freedom from slavery – is it possible on this earth? ” he asks. “When you hear that there are – depending on what numbers you look at – around 28 million people serving in slavery at the moment, freeing ourselves from that seems like a huge challenge. The number of slaves in the world now is actually greater than at the peak of the slave trade in the 1700s. ” Modern slavery can take many forms – slavery by descent, bonded labour or debt bondage, forced migrant labour, sex slavery, early or forced marriage, child labour, and Islamist slavery (Boko Haram and the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant have supported practice of slavery).

Human trafficking is also a key component of many types of slavery.

Slavery can affect people of all ages and genders. However, it most prevalent amongst vulnerable, socially excluded or minority groups.

A discussion paper released by Anti Slavery International in 2007 states that: “Development and slavery have always been closely linked… the majority of individuals around the world who are subjected to slavery practices are generally from the most impoverished and socially excluded sections of society within their countries. ” Titled “Poverty, Development and the Elimination of Slavery ” , the articles goes on to explore the many links between poverty, social exclusion and contemporary forms of slavery. It also explores the

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potential for development projects to reduce both poverty and slavery.

Despite the huge numbers of people living as slaves or in poverty, Adrian believes there is hope in focussing on development and the work that all people can do to assist in ending slavery.

He points to William Wilberforce – the leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade in England – as an example of how change can occur through the work of determined individuals.

“We ’ ve seen a lot of progress in the areas of poverty, human trafficking and slavery through the work of organisations like the United Nations – particularly their recently concluded Millennium Development Goals, which saw a drastic reduction in the number of people living on less than $1 per day, ” Adrian says.

“We have a chance to continue this work through the UN ’ s new Sustainable Development Goals, and try to reduce poverty – and slavery – even more drastically by 2030. ” The 17 Sustainable Development Goals, also known as the Global Goals, were identified by the United Nations earlier in 2015.

The Uniting Church in South Australia is dedicated to working towards these goals, and will continue to make this a focus in coming years.

“The Moderator shared some information about these goals at the October Presbytery and Synod meeting – and you can be expecting to hear more about them as we engage further, ” says Adrian.

For more information about the Uniting Church SA and the Sustainable Development Goals, please contact Adrian Nippress on anippress@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4203.

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Christmas service times Would you like your Christmas service times and details to be shared on the Uniting Church SA website?

Each year the Communications team compiles Uniting Church SA Christmas service details so that the general public are easily able to find services appropriate to them.

Please contact Communications with your church name and location, service days and times, and service titles if applicable (e.g. Blue Christmas, Family Service, Carols Service, etc.).

Email: communications@sa.uca.org.au Phone: 8236 4249 Post: Communications, Uniting Church SA, GPO Box 2145, Adelaide SA 5001

g ra c e

Simple gifts make all the difference Delphine Vuagnoux is the coordinator of the Christmas Bowl appeal for Act for Peace, the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia. Recently, she visited Akula, a refugee camp on the border of Ethiopia and South Sudan, which is also home to an Act for Peace program and is the focus of this year ’ s Christmas Bowl. In this article, Delphine shares her experiences visiting the camp and the people who live there.

Nothing could have prepared me for the shocking reality facing refugees living in Akula camp. Walking into Akula, I was immediately aware that the refugees living there had next to nothing. Their homes were made from torn UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) tents and anything else they could find. There were no toilets, and the smell of faesces was overbearing. It was extremely hot, dry and dusty.

Akula is located just across the Ethiopian border and is home to South Sudanese refugees who have fled ongoing civil war to find safety and a better life for their families. After decades of conflict in surrounding countries, Ethiopia is now host to more refugees than any other country in Africa. As one of the world ’ s poorest countries, they are struggling to cope.

One of the largest problems facing refugees in Akula camp is a lack of water, sanitation and hygiene.

There are no toilets in Akula, and just one working water pump.

People are forced to go to the toilet out in the open. The lack of water means that there is no way for people to wash their hands and deadly diseases spread rapidly. Children are particularly at risk from these diseases, as I quickly found out during my visit to the camp.

In Akula, I met John, an 8-year-old boy who was extremely sick and at risk of dying due to lack of access to clean water. When John ’ s family fled the horrific war in South Sudan, they arrived with nothing. They thought that in Akula they would, at last, be safe. But they were wrong.

When I visited the family, John was too weak to move. His mother, Tuskur, was worried he would die. Dozens of others in the camp had already succumbed to the disease he ’ s caught – Hepatitis E. It was devastating to see this little boy so sick, especially as I knew all

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it would take to save him would be some clean water and some soap.

No fancy drugs. No cutting edge medical research. Just water and soap.

Others in the camp shared with me their own harrowing personal stories – about life in their home countries and in Akula camp.

One of the stories I was most moved by was that of a young mother named Kama, who impressed me with her courage and determination.

Kama told me that she grew up in a small farming community in South Sudan. But this peaceful life had been disrupted a few months earlier when soldiers arrived in the village.

Kama, pregnant with her second child at the time, only just escaped alive. After grabbing her one-year-old daughter, Nyadak, the pair hid in the bush as the soldiers burned down houses and crops, and killed many of Kama ’ s friends and family. She fled to Ethiopia all alone, desperate to keep her daughter and her unborn child safe.

When she arrived in Akula, Kama faced another danger – dirty water and disease. Young children and pregnant mothers are at the highest risk of dying from diseases such as Hepatitis.

Kama arrived at the camp with nothing – not even a container to carry water from the far-away pump, which made life for her even more difficult than most. She was terrified that she or Nyadak would grow ill.

Fortunately, soon before I arrived at the camp, Kama had been given a jerry can and soap. The can helped her to gather clean water from the pump, while the soap helped her to keep her small daughter clean and prevent contamination. These things may seem simple to those of us who have easy access to them, but they make a world of difference to people like Kama.

The third person I met who made a huge impact on me during my

g ra c e

visit was Mr Merga, a gentle, dedicated man who works tirelessly for Act for Peace ’ s local partner in Akula.

“God asked us to help those in need, it is our Christian duty, ” Mr Merga told me. “It ’ s tragic that they have had to abandon their lives and flee their homes. With your help, I am trying to support them when they arrive. ” I was touched by his dedication to ensuring that no one in his community would die from a preventable disease. He worked hard each and every day – repairing water pumps, building toilets, distributing soap, and training people in good hygiene.

Meeting refugees like John and Kama, and spending time with dedicated staff like Mr Merga, are experiences I will never forget.

What has stayed with me most is how simply the some of the most pressing problems people face in places like Akula can be fixed – with access to soap, toilets, education about hygiene, and clean water. All things that are easy to take for granted in a place like Australia.

In 2014, members of the Uniting Church in South Australia raised more than $175,000 as part of the Christmas Bowl that supported Burmese refugees and communities around the world. This year, Act for Peace hopes that the combined effort of churches around Australia will

make a huge difference to the lives of South Sudanese refugees and other people in need.

“Love is at the heart of the Christian faith. The Christmas Bowl is a bowl of love, at the centre of our gatherings in homes and communities, ” says Stuart McMillan, President of the Uniting Church in Australia.

“May I encourage all my sisters and brothers to participate in this year ’ s Christmas Bowl, and to reflect in your families and communities on the nations and peoples whose lives are touched by the ‘bowl of love ’ . ” By sharing my own story of visiting Akula, I hope to encourage Uniting Church communities to once again be involved in the Christmas Bowl appeal – and make a difference in the lives of many.

“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving… The goal is equality, as it is written: ‘The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little. ’ ” – 2 Corinthians 8:7,15 To donate to the 2015 Christmas Bowl appeal, to find out more or order a church fundraising kit with worship resources, please visit actforpeace. org.au/christmasbowl or call 1800 025 101.

Seeing lives changed through the Christmas Bowl Act for Peace has some exciting news to share about Than, whose story was shared in New Times prior to the last year ’ s Christmas Bowl. The 2014 appeal saw funds raised for refugees living in Mae La camp on the Thai-Burma border.

The article spoke about the life of Than and his family, who were living in Mae La camp as refugees and were relying on food rations to survive. Than ’ s children had spent their entire lives in a refugee camp, and Than lived there for more than 21 years.

Recently, Than and his family were granted asylum in the United States of America, and they will be moving there later this year.

“Life for my sons, Aung and Bo, will be much better in the US, ” says Than. “I am so excited that in the US they will be able to get a good education and make a better life. ” Join us in wishing every success for Than and his family in their new life.

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“Your investments are helping Eldercare maintain its commitment to the care of older South Australians. We’re undertaking a major multi-million dollar redevelopment and expansion phase that will see us deliver best practice care in first class residential facilities.”

Chris O’Grady, Major Project and Property Executive, Eldercare

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. 4 of 2014 (“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

My life as a pilgrim Candace Champion Left to right: Candace Champion, Lizzie Ferguson, Philippa Paul, Alexandra Bingham and Adrian Nippress are all Uniting Church SA members who attended the Voices for Justice conference in 2015.

Following in the footsteps of people who follow Jesus Christ is a form of pilgrimage.

I follow my Creator ’ s footsteps. I follow my mother ’ s, father ’ s, grandparents ’ , older siblings ’ , ancestors ’ and Creator ’ s footprints.

My home is in heaven. Earth and my physical being are temporary homes.

The Kaurna Spirituality Pilgrimage The Kaurna Spirituality Pilgrimage, held on Saturday 12 September this year at MarionWarradale Uniting Church, was, for me, a unique and profound experience. I was fortunate to be part of such an important journey of truth-telling, spirit-seeking and justice-hunting.

The willingness to share, listen and learn from all participants was encouraging and sincere. The “walking on country ” together has become a much sought out commodity in covenanting, reconciliation and justice circles.

The telling of history and stories from Kaurna perspectives at Warriparinga and Tjilbruke was beautifully carried out by Frank Wanganeen.

Rev Lyn Leane ’ s sharing of her story, knowledge and relationship to the Colebrook elders and site was powerful, and added to the valued experience of the 2015 Kaurna Spirituality Pilgrimage. The stories from Colebrook Home paint a sickening, sobering history of Aboriginal children whose futures were changed without permission or consent.

The site is a place of great sadness for parents, caregivers, families and visitors.

During the pilgrimage, sacred and significant sites of Aboriginal people were Return to Contents

explored quickly, but effectively. Personally, I felt many of the places and spaces spoke for themselves.

Coming into these spaces, the respect and acknowledgement shown by the pilgrims was beautiful. The sites we visited were, and continue to be, significant and sacred. It is encouraging to see and sense other pilgrims ’ recognition of this. The spirit of the Creator and people was both felt and acknowledged in these significant and special places.

Taizé Pilgrimage I was fortunate enough to be asked by brothers at the Taizé Community in France to return, speak and participate in a special week of celebration from Saturday 1 to Sunday 9 August, 2015.

Seeking, listening, learning and growing my understanding of God ’ s call to compassion, mercy, joy and simplicity is a suitcase I am still unpacking.

Being able to share my story, to help educate and grow the understanding and knowledge of others about First People in Australia and my own relationship with God the Creator, is a treasure of endless value.

Voices for Justice Micah Australia is a coalition of churches and Christian organisations with a powerful voice for justice. I was given an opportunity to attend the Micah Australia Voices for Justice conference earlier this year, held from Saturday 10 to Tuesday 13 October in Ngunnawal country (Canberra).

I gained valuable tools relating to processes of advocacy and lobbying, which I will be

able to use in the future. I was exposed to significant issues such as climate change, tax and transparency (tax evasion, money laundering, etc.) and Australian aid.

It was great to be given the opportunity to “do justice together ” . All people involved were willing and available to hear God ’ s call and act upon it. I believe God calls us to be available to doing God ’ s work by listening to stories from one another, learning and feeling the hardships of others – working together to ensure equality, unity, justice, peace and security for all of God ’ s creation.

I feel that Voices for Justice is God ’ s people listening to God, advocating for and standing in solidarity with those whose voices remain unheard or unacknowledged by unequal, unsustainable and unfair systems.

While I believe Aboriginal people have a powerful voice in areas highlighted by Micah Australia, I felt there was a lack of connection, participation and relationship between Micah Australia and Australia ’ s First People in facilitating the Voices for Justice conference. I look forward to seeing relationships between all Australians participating in “doing justice together ” in future.

This article was written for the October meeting of the Presbytery and Synod. Candace read the piece aloud as part of the report on Covenanting and the activities of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress in South Australia. This version has been slightly edited for length.

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magazine

Attendees at the symposium conducted by the Uniting Church SA Environment Action Group earlier this year. For a full report on the symposium, please visit sa.uca.org.au/across

Listen again; act now In the February edition of New Times, Rev Brian Polkinghorne shared his thoughts on eco-theology as it related to the Old Testament and to his own life. In this edition, Brian addresses the New Testament.

Earth ’ s crowded with heaven,

And every bush aflame with God,

But only those who see take off their shoes,

And know they are standing on holy ground.

- Elizabeth Browning-Barrett The first three gospel writers begin their accounts by describing the birth and early life of Jesus; beyond this, John and Paul start at a deeper level by analysing the meaning of this brand new beginning.

They discern that this new beginning is the bringing together of the spirit and the flesh, the introduction of the sacred into the secular, the superseding of law with love on a cosmic scale.

John ’ s gospel tells us that in the very beginning the Word was with God and was God, and that “nothing in all creation was made without him. ” Nothing? So then, if all things visible and invisible were made by this Word, the Logos, then everything belongs to this mysterious Word. John unlocks this intriguing mystery by telling us that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us full of grace and truth ” . This brings us to the understanding that he is talking about Jesus – not just a human being like us, but one in whom the Word, the eternal Christ, dwelt.

This is one of the most powerful cornerstones of eco-theology. The eternal Christ, dwelling in the man Jesus, is the maker and owner of all things visible and invisible. According to eco-theology, if we claim Jesus, the Christ, to be our Lord and Saviour, then it is sinful to harm or destroy any of his property.

This idea is further affirmed by Paul in the opening chapters of his

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letters to the Colossians (1:15-20) and Ephesians (1:10, 21-23), and the writer of Hebrews claims “he is the one through whom God created the universe. ” It is no easy task to step out of our anthropocentric (human-centred) thinking and lifestyle into a Christocentric one. The commercial world and our egos distort our Christocentric attitudes as we hang onto our personal security blankets, piling possessions upon possessions. In stark contrast, Jesus models the way of simplicity, giving and servantlove as the pathways to the Kingdom of God. Personally, I find it deeply distressing to see other Christians acting similarly to worldly people – paying little heed to the effect of their actions and consumerism on the environment and on other people.

Many seem to act in ways that ignore that these actions have a negative impact on the world God created, and on the people within it, who suffer through our actions.

As Christians, I believe that before we turn on a tap or a power switch, drive a car or visit the shops, we must consider the impact this will have on God ’ s created world. I urge you to think about the environment, and ask yourself what effect your actions may have on God ’ s people or on his gift of land, air or water – those things which nurture us. Once we start doing that we are beginning to give shape and form to eco-theology.

This is the last in a series of articles submitted by the Uniting Church SA Environment Action Group. Feedback about articles in this series should be sent to justice@sa.uca.org.au

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

Left: Kingscote Uniting Church.

Top right: Penneshaw Uniting Church.

Bottom right: American River Uniting Church.

Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations The first Christian worship service ever held in South Australia took place on the beach at Reeves Point on Kangaroo Island. As the first white settlers from England stepped foot on the island, the ship ’ s captain led a thanksgiving service. The site of that first service is marked by a cross and a “prayer nook ” in presentday Kingscote, and is used every Easter for a combined churches dawn service. Since that first ship arrived bringing people of faith to South Australia, the Christian church has been active on Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island ’ s Linked Congregations (originally Methodist, now Uniting Church) worship at five locations – Penneshaw, American River, Kingscote, Parndana and Stokes Bay. The historic chapel at Penneshaw dates back to the 1860s, while the building at American River will be celebrating its 50th anniversary early next year. Kingscote ’ s classic stone building, which also houses the Kingscote Lutheran congregation, was built on the site of an earlier wooden structure and was established in 1907. The 1960s building at Parndana now houses local Lutheran and Catholic congregations in addition to the Uniting Church community. The Stokes Bay congregation meets in a local community hall.

As the main residential and corporate centre of Kangaroo Island, Kingscote has about 40 regulars. The lively Stokes Bay Return to Contents

congregation is the next largest, attracting approximately 30 people each week, many of which are farming families with young, primary school-aged children. The group of 4-5 faithful locals in Parndana sometimes combine services with Stokes Bay. Finally, the Penneshaw and American River congregations meet fortnightly and have about 10 regular attendees.

Across the various locations and services, traditional models blend with more contemporary styles. A common strength of each place is the sense of belonging and caring for one another as Islanders.

The congregations contain a mixture of denominational backgrounds, with Baptist, Church of Christ, Lutheran and others included in their membership.

Kangaroo Island has a population of approximately 4,200, and although geographically close to Adelaide, it is separated from the mainland by a 15 kilometre-wide strip of water. The costs of travel to and from Kangaroo Island are not cheap - the cost of living, and the cost of ministry, are affected by this barrier of water.

Members of the Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations are actively involved in ministry, local community life and international mission projects. This includes a recent Alpha course, which was successfully run for 14 participants and fully sponsored by

a Kingscote congregation couple who manage a local motel.

Being one of the “mainline ” churches on Kangaroo Island, the Uniting Church also has a good relationship with the local Anglican, Catholic and Lutheran Churches. These four key denominations meet regularly as the Kangaroo Island Inter-Church Committee.

The Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations have also developed a strong overseas mission link with two projects in Cambodia.

The Stokes Bay congregation has sent work parties over to these projects a number of times. Louise Davis, a member of the Kingscote congregation, is involved in work in Uganda around the slums of Kampala. She is supported in her ministry there for two or three months at a time.

At present, the Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations are looking to the future as a time of reshaping and renewing local mission.

The current full-time minister, Rev Rob Tann, will be retiring in January 2016, and the financial decision has been made to pull back to part-time ministry.

The Uniting Church has a long history on Kangaroo Island and is highly valued – being the church, rather than just going to church, is vital to life on the Island. The Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations hope to continue living out their ministry and mission for many years to come.

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letters to the editor

Re-forming Maughan Church?

Editor ’ s note: Although we do not usually allow letters of this length in New Times, we felt compelled to make an exception in this case. Maughan Uniting Church has a long history in the local community. The editorial team felt that this letter expressed ideas and thoughts that may echo those of others who have found it difficult to deal with changes to the Maughan site. – Catherine Life is full of surprises, and for me, and a substantial number of people, the plans of Uniting Communities to erect a multi-storied building which involves the demolition of Maughan Church came as a troubling surprise.

It is encouraging that Uniting Communities wants to have extended facilities which will enable significant programmes to be conducted there, and that units will be available to meet the urgent and necessary needs of people.

However, the prospect of the most significant and distinctive ministry of Maughan Church, “a church with sleeves rolled up ” , whose congregation worshipped and developed an outstanding programme of witness and service in the city of Adelaide for 150 years through the Central Mission, now coming to an abrupt end, and the Maughan church building being demolished after a mere 50 years is grievous indeed.

Maughan Church was always markedly and purposefully different from the other city churches. It was always an evangelical church, but never a fundamentalist church. Sure, the congregation has declined like many other churches, but as the highly regarded minister the Rev Cliff Symons used to say: “Trend is not destiny ” .

The world is changing at an enormous rate; belief in God has altered quite radically. I don ’ t know if Uniting Communities have done their homework and are aware of the significance of the strong growing number of people who now speak of “spirituality ” , and would relish the opportunity to belong to, and worship within, a fellowship which wrestled with the implications of our changing world.

Uniting Communities, or the church, could have used its financial resources and searched the nation, or beyond, for an outstanding

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person who could have brought a whole new perspective to contemporary faith in our city. Adelaide needs such an injection.

A different approach, I believe, would soon have a congregation of “searchers ” calling Maughan Church their home.

I enjoy drawing, and couldn ’ t resist an amateur attempt at imagining what the new plans for the site would look like if Maughan Church were retained [see picture to the left]. There are many competent architects who could design such a concept, even if two or three floors would need to be added to the proposed building.

Of course my burning issue is not what the remarkable Maughan Church, the soul of the Mission, has been in the past, but rather what it could be yet again with some of the creative and faithful decisionmaking which, years ago, brought it into life.

Hopefully there is still time to re-consider some parts of the new, exciting plans that are developing!

D. Pill, Magill North

Love your neighbour

I suggest R. Anderson (New Times, November) try rereading their Bible through the lens of “love your neighbour as yourself ” and “the only thing that counts is faith working through love ” (Galatians 5:6).

That way, their next contribution might show at least some evidence of the radical love, tolerance and inclusion that Jesus showed. I would also suggest that the now clear majority of church going Christians who support marriage equality (various polls) may well be a much clearer sign of the will of the Spirit for the church on this issue than R. Anderson ’ s letter.

On a related note, I am greatly disappointed that New Times would publish a letter which (by design or not) has the effect of hurting and further alienating those among us identifying as other than straight and also those who love them and of inflaming an already sensitive aspect of our common life. That the letter had no credible scientific, theological or historical basis further compounds the misjudgement.

B. Lang Salisbury Heights

Open doors, open minds

Marriage equality? – Very soon I hope.

Journeying through life involves a string of contentious issues.

Having just attended [the October Presbytery and Synod meeting], where we are continually encouraged to listen respectfully to the views of others, I find it quite confronting to read a letter from R. Anderson of Balaklava in the November issue. The language used verges on the dogmatic and there is not a glimmer of light in the door that would encourage or allow meaningful discussion. I despair of a way forward when I read letters like this on any topic – as the door is firmly shut.

However, I pray, that on this faith journey of ours, there are enough folk with open hearts and minds to enable sensitive, and productive

diary

dialogue. Then one day very soon, through God ’ s totally inclusive love, long term, committed same sex relationships will be accepted and formally recognised as marriage. Surely we all aspire to a society of equality.

D. White, Encounter Bay

Reviews need review?

I recently viewed the film War Room, and appreciated the strong evangelical emphasis on the power of prayer, and the way faith can shape human lives and decisions. I found the recent review of War Room came across as dismissive of these values when it described the film as “terrible ” . In my opinion, while there are some flaws in the story and presentation, the film and the readers of New Times deserve much better than this in its choice of review standards.

R. Bassham, Port Elliot 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.

Intergenerational Discipleship Developer (with particular focus on Youth and Young Adults) Unit of Presbytery & Synod: Mission Resourcing Classification: Part Time Permanent Placement (0.8FTE) •

Mission Resourcing – Intergenerational Unit (Uniting Young People focus)

•

Uniting Church SA Presbytery and Synod Office

•

Leadership/discipleship position (Ordained Minister/Deacon), Specified Youth Worker (or Lay Ministry of Pastor)

Expressions of Interest: to akoh-butler@sa.uca.org.au Application Period: December 6-22 Position available: from February 1, 2016 - start date prior to Easter 2016 Description: The successful applicant will be passionate about growing disciples of Jesus Christ and in particular working with youth and young adults. Answerable to the Executive Officer, Mission Resourcing this ministry position is within the Intergenerational Unit of the Mission Resourcing team.

With the Team, the successful applicant will be responsible for the growth of networks of Youth and Young Adult Leaders, working with them to develop and support strategies for discipleship development.

This position will suit an articulate Christian whose passion for the mission of God extends to developing and nurturing Christian growth in others.

Expressions of Interest are welcome. Information about the vision and goals for Mission Resourcing and the Uniting Young People Directions of the Intergenerational Team can be found at sa.uca.org.au The Position Description will be provided on request. Applications to: Rev Dr Amelia Koh-Butler, Executive Officer Mission Resourcing, Uniting Church SA, GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.

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CHRISTMAS SERVICES. Uniting Church congregations and faith communities across the state will be offering and engaging with a variety of services over the Christmas period. Please visit sa.uca.org.au for more details.

MESSY CHRISTMAS. Join us for Messy Christmas at The Corner Uniting Church (corner Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) on Sunday 6 December, 3.30pm-5.30pm. An afternoon of songs, drama, and many craft activities. Fun for the whole family, including a shared meal. Cost $5. More info at thecorner.org.au COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS in Ramsay Place, Colonnades Noarlunga Centre on Thursday 17 December, 6-9 pm. The Noarlunga Uniting Church choir, in conjunction with Don Hopgood ’ s Jazz Bandits, at the request of the Activate Ramsay Place Committee of the City of Onkaparinga have held this event for the past three years. Local organisations/agencies are involved in providing activities for children, a sausage sizzle, arts and crafts, community information, and a visit from Santa Claus. This year the Hackham Baptist Church Youth singers will also perform. The event is supported by Country Arts SA (Hopgood Theatre), City of Onkaparinga, Uniting Church COMN, Colonnades and allBIZ. All welcome.

CHRISTMAS MUSICAL. The Corner Kids Performing Arts Group presents “The Night Shift Before Christmas ” , a Christmas musical for the whole family. Please join The Corner on Sunday 20 December at 10am for a fun-filled morning followed by morning tea at The Corner Uniting Church (corner Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale). More info at thecorner.org.au SEMAPHORE RAINBOW CAROLS. The annual Semaphore Rainbow Carols will be held at Semaphore Uniting Church (on Semaphore Road, next to the Exeter Hotel) on Monday 21 December at 7.30pm. Come and sing your favourite carols in a beautiful old church with 100 other GLBTIQ people. Supper will follow the service. All welcome! Enquires to Rev Ian Hunter at ian.anna.hunter@gmail.com ADARE AWESOME ADVENTURE – GARAGE SALE. Join us in Victor Harbor at Adare Uniting Church on January 9 from 7.30am for a mega garage sale. Come along for breakfast, bargains, a cuppa and scones. Browse through a variety of stalls including toys, books, CDs, DVDs, haberdashery, household items, cakes and BBQ. See you at Adare Avenue, McCracken for a lovely day out. For more information, please visit adarechurch.org.au or call 8552 8377.

A MISSION PICNIC will be held in the basement of Brougham Place Uniting Church, North Adelaide, on Tuesday 12 January from 12noon to 2pm. All interested in the mission of the Uniting Church at home and abroad are welcome to meet with returned and returning missionaries of our partnerships in mission. Please bring a luncheon to share. Tea, coffee and cool drinks provided.

To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary ’ in the subject line. established 1928

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www.aldermanredman.com.au | phone: (08) 8212 5186 email: lawyers@aldermanredman.com.au

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“ Discover your potential and develop as a life-long disciple and effective leader ” Blue Christmas Service Important Dates Visit uniting.college.org.au for details Thursday 11 February Last Day for enrolment (08) 8416 8420 | info@unitingcollege.org.au in Semester 1

Tuesday 23 February Campus Orientation Monday 29 February Semester 1 begins

Thursday 17th December 6.00pm

For those who feel sadness and grieve the loss of loved ones in the Christmas season.

CHRISTMAS EVE

6.00pm Festival of Readings and Carols with Pilgrim Choir and organ

10.00pm Christmas Eve Contemporary Worship With Communion

2016 enrolments now open!

It’s never too late to f ind your calling…

CHRISTMAS DAY

9.30am Christmas Day Celebration

Music with Pilgrim Choir, organ and brass

Visit uniting.college.org.au for details (08) 8416 8420 | info@unitingcollege.org.au Uniting College is a member of the Adelaide College of Divinity, a Registered Training Organisation and Higher Education Provider.

Ministers: Rev Jana Norman, Rev Sandy Boyce & Rev Andrew Prior Ph: 8212 3295

www.pilgrim.org.au

Looking forward with compassion In this advertorial article, Julie Redman, a lawyer, Chair of the Christ Church Uniting congregation and former Chair of Uniting Communities, shares her insights into the South Australian Government ’ s Advanced Care Directives, compassion and life planning.

In 38 years of legal practice, I have found that many people find it hard to discuss end of life planning openly with family or close friends; instead, many keep their final wishes private, relying on posthumous documents such as wills. Making decisions on behalf of a loved one in the event of an accident, mental health episode, dementia, stroke or death can be highly emotional and stressful. It is a compassionate decision is to have these conversations early to guide your family members towards an open and frank conversation about your wishes.

In July 2014, the South Australian Government made Advanced Care Directives (ACD) available to families as a life planning tool.

A comprehensive, step-by-step toolkit available through the ACD encourages family members to discuss these decisions openly with one another, working through their wishes and values.

The ACD allows you to write down your wishes and instructions for future health care, end of life, living arrangements and personal matters. It allows you to appoint substitute decision makers to make these decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make these decisions for yourself. If you have an existing Enduring Power of Guardianship, Medical Power of Attorney or Anticipatory Directions, the ACD will replace these. Health professionals and hospitals now require

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the completion of the ACD form and should ask you on admission whether you have completed one.

Even with the helpful step-by-step guide, the ACD form can still be long and daunting for some, particularly the elderly. As a lawyer, I am finding my role in the process is to sit with the whole family or with individuals to talk through and assist in the preparation of the ACD. Time spent preparing the ACD can also provide an appropriate avenue to discuss your wishes with your family, or to review your will and Enduring Power of Attorney. The ACD does not deal with finances in the event of mental incapacity; the Enduring Power of Attorney is still the only form that can do this. It must be remembered that all of these documents must be signed prior to impaired decision-making capacity.

As we consider these issues, let us reflect on the compassion shown by having an open family approach to end of life planning to elevate the stress for loved ones in the future.

The Advanced Care Directive toolkit is available at advancecaredirectives.sa.gov.au Julie Redman ’ s contact details are available in advertisements on pages12 and 21.

reviews

Local author, unique limericks Book: The Seriously Funny Bible Author: Brian Jefferies; illustrated by David Kowalick Recommended for: people who like supporting local Uniting Church authors and illustrators In short: A series of limericks offering a unique take on Biblical passages.

Available from: Brian Jefferies on brianjefferies@internode. on.net or 8379 7856 Brian Jefferies has had a hugely interesting life and ministry, which have been detailed in part in his previous two books – Field of Miracles and Miracles by the Day. In his latest work, The Seriously Funny Bible, Brian takes a less personal angle. Published in late 2014, this book contains limericks written by Brian on various passages in the Bible.

The book opens with acknowledgements and thanks to a number of people – many with names that may be recognised by Uniting Church members across South Australia. Here, he also briefly explains how his Bible study group at Rosefield Uniting Church encouraged him in writing limericks as they studied different chapters.

The book is organised into sections according to either the book they are from (Acts, John, etc.) or another category (The Prophets, Women of the Bible, etc.), which makes for quick and easy navigation.

A number of cartoons – drawn by Rev David Kowalick of Fishgate Uniting Church in Ascot Park and the new ConneXions Uniting Church in Noarlunga Downs – are peppered throughout each section.

The cartoons are a particular highlight in this book. Mixing Biblical stories with contemporary ideas through simple, effective cartoons, many of David ’ s illustrations demonstrate a keen sense of humour.

They are an excellent complement to Brian ’ s wordy limericks.

For those not well-versed (no pun intended) in poetry – a limerick is a poem typically characterised by an anapestic rhythmic structure (two short syllables, followed by a long one) and an AABBA rhyme scheme.

The first, second and fifth lines usually tend to be longer, and rhyming lines generally have the same number of syllables. Limericks also tend to be obscene or lewd, with humour as the key intent.

Those who are already aware of the typical structure and content of limericks may find Brian ’ s take on them a little baffling. Few fit into the structure, and while some are humorous, they are very seldom rude or crude – which is probably as to be expected in a modern retelling of the Bible!

Brian displays skill in finding rhymes for some trickier passages – and names! – from Biblical stories, and often manages to get the heart or message of particular verses through quite nicely.

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As my background includes some study of poetry, I often found myself distracted by the author ’ s lack of adherence to regular limerick structure. However, for those who are not as nit-picky and who appreciate unique ways of interpreting Bible stories, this book just might fit the bill!

Catherine Hoffman

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 Card Makers and Scrapbookers!

Regular workshops around Adelaide or I can come to you. Suitable for all ages and experience. All workshop details at www.cardsbyfiona.blogspot.com.au Contact Fiona Meier 0424-269-039 for program details to be mailed to you or to make a booking.

FABULOUS HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION Treat yourselves to absolute luxury, beachfront accommodation on Kangaroo Island ’ s famous Island Beach. Due to owners ’ change of holiday plans, extensive availability over summer months can now be secured in this large, beautifully appointed home. The home provides private ensuited accommodation in four king size bedrooms; ideal for four couples. Summer rate including linen $4,500 per week. Enquire now on 0418 836 833.

MORIALTA UNITING CHURCH STUDENT HOUSES VACANCIES 2016 Undergraduate university/TAFE students from rural/ regional areas. Furnished single bedrooms, shared bathrooms, living areas. Close to UniSA, Magill. Easy travel to city for Adelaide University and UniSA, and to Mawson Lakes campus. Rent $350 monthly. Anne Ind 8336 6836; Church Office 83319344. Now is the time for school leavers heading for tertiary studies to apply for accommodation in our student houses.

positionsvacant.sa.uca.org .au 23

s u r vey

New Times survey

Please complete and return this survey by Monday 11 January 2016 to: New Times c/o Uniting Church SA GPO Box 2145 Adelaide SA 5001 Alternatively, complete the same survey online: surveymonkey.com/r/newtimes2015 Tell us a bit about yourself…

1. I am ☐ Under 18 ☐ 18-25 ☐ 26-35 ☐ 36-50 ☐ 51-64 ☐ 65+ 2. My postcode is: 3. How do you generally acquire information about the Uniting Church in South Australia?

Please choose all that are appropriate. ☐ Uniting Church SA website ☐ “Uniting Church Uniting People ” Facebook page ☐ New Times ☐ UC E-news ☐ Congregational newsletter ☐ Church noticeboard ☐ Mix of some/all of the above ☐ None of the above ☐ Other (please specify) 4. Please rate the quality of the publication by numbering the following aspects.

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Over 11 editions in 2015, New Times brought readers news about conferences, campaigns and congregations from across the Uniting Church SA. Now the editorial team wants your feedback about the articles and topics you found most interesting, and to identify changes you ’ d like to see occur. This survey is an opportunity for you, the readers of New Times, to provide input into the shape of the publication in 2016. The survey should only take five to 10 minutes to complete. Thank you for your time!