Issue 38, No 1, 2019
The voice of Uniting Church SA
February / March 2019
REACHING YOUTH
CYCLING WITH CHRIST
ON THE FRINGES
Olympian Matthew Glaetzer's
Skate parks becoming
journey through faith
teaching tools pp. 6-7
pp. 12-13
Contents FEATURES Reaching youth on the fringes
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From church to club
7
Religious Freedom
9
Cycling with Christ
12-13
A sporting community with a difference
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REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s comment
4
General Secretary's comment
5
News snippets
10-11, 23
Getting to know…
16-17
Out & About
18-19
Diary 20 Letters to the editor
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this issue contains the image and name of a deceased person (page 23 ). Sub-Editor Tasha Crumpler Editor: Petronella Lowies Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Communications Design: Thaddeus Brady Print: Graphic Print Group Cover photo: courtesy of Matthew Glaetzer
For editorial inquiries: p. 08 8236 4230 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
sa.uca.org.au facebook.com/UnitingChurch.UnitingPeople ISSN 0726-2612
New Times is the voice of Uniting Church SA. Published bi-monthly, February through December, New Times represents the breadth, diversity and vision of Uniting Church members in SA. Articles and advertising do not necessarily reflect the views of the New Times Editorial team. Print circulation: 8,250 Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie St, Adelaide p. (08) 8236 4200 f. 8236 4201 country callers. 1300 766 956
DEADLINE FOR THE APRIL / MAY 2019 EDITION: Friday, 22 March Cover details: Two time Olympian, Matthew Glaetzer competes at the 2017 Manchester Track World Cup where he broke his own world record. Matthew went on to then break his personal best at the 2018 Commonwealth Games where he also set a new record for the fastest time trial recorded at sea level. Read more about Matthew's professional and spiritual journey on pages 12-13.
Placements News Placements finalised as of 4 January 2019 Rev Malcolm Rawlings to Brighton UC from date to be advised. Rev Nathan Whillas to Port Lincoln Parish from 1 January 2020. Vacant placements The following is the list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Profiles available: Adare UC from 1 February 2019, Blackwood UC (up to 1.2 FTE for two positions), Dernancourt UC from 1 March 2019, Enfield UC, Malvern UC (0.8), Mount Barker UC (0.8) from mid-2019, Port Augusta UC (0.5), Prospect Road UC (0.5), Summertown UC, Uniting Churches of Tatiara (0.8) (Bordertown UC, Mundulla UC, Buckingham UC), Unley UC (0.4), Waikerie UC. Profiles not yet available: Adelaide Korean UC (0.2), Belair UC, Burnside City UC (2nd Placement), Flinders Congregations (0.6) (Booleroo Centre UC, Booleroo Whim UC, Melrose UC, Wirrabara UC, Wilmington UC), Loxton UC and Renmark UC from 1 January 2020, Mannum UC (0.3), Southern Yorke Peninsula from 1 January 2019, The Grove UC (0.3). For more information about any of these placements, please visit sa.uca. org.au/pastoral-relations-mission-planning/placements-vacantand-finalised
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editorial
Built for purpose Life is full. What I’ve noticed about growing older is a matching list of growing responsibilities and commitments. It can be hard to carve out time for myself. As I mentioned in my previous editorial, I have been studying change management, and last year our cohort focussed a lot on self. How to self-reflect, practice self-care, and be self-aware and how to really know ourselves - what drives us, what skills, talents, hobbies and interests do we possess. Often in the busyness of life, the latter can disappear as distractions and responsibilities compete for our time and attention. Being more intentional about discovering the things that bring joy has not only changed me as a leader but has, and will, change the focus of my life trajectory. It is almost like I have re-lit that fire in my belly that has been there since I was a kid but has been buried under the layers, demands and responsibilities of adulthood. God has built us for purpose and meaning so why not tap into that purpose in an intentional way and live our lives the way God intended? Becoming intentional about pursuing my strengths, gifts, talents and hobbies has given me the idea of sharing these newfound discoveries with others in the form of a retreat called ‘Balance’. This first retreat of its kind for Uniting Church SA women will take place at in. CAFÉ + WORKSPACE on Pirie Street on International Women’s Day (IWD), Friday 8 March. This year’s IWD theme is #BalanceforBetter which celebrates gender-balance and the way this balance drives for a better working world. The retreat will focus on three main areas: joy, connecting with self, and balancing the body. Some exceptional Uniting Church leaders have offered to run sessions on the day, including Sharonne Price who is renowned for her spiritual guidance and insights into enriching the soul (she has recently published her first book, Soulstice: The Journeys and Seasons of the Soul). Lauren Andris is another fabulous Uniting Church leader who is passionate about yoga and is a popular social media influencer. Lauren will lead a session on the ways she uses social media for good and how she balances her body through exercise. I will lead a session on self, which will work to draw out women’s gifts and strengths through a fun exercise and time for self-reflection. We invite all women to gather with us on IWD at in. CAFÉ + WORKSPACE. Spaces are limited so please register your interest as soon as possible. Lauren, Sharonne and I hope this one day retreat is just the beginning of something even more special for women and men in the Uniting Church as we fulfil our life purpose the way God intended.
Rev Felicity Amery Chairperson/Presbytery Minister, Northern Synod and Rev Philip Gardner, Executive Officer Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning spend time self-reflecting by finger-painting as part of the National Executive Development Program in Change Management.
Belinda Taylor
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m o d e ra t o r
Flourish in Ministry When people discover the love of Jesus through our ministries, lives are transformed by the Holy Spirit. New friendships are formed, discipleship is nurtured and as love is shared with people, new love grows and ministry flourishes.
During the summer break, some Uniting Church congregations offer holiday programs for children and some help to host beach missions. I was delighted to be invited to come and see the holiday program at Westbourne Park Uniting Church, where a week long summer holiday event has been offered for over 25 years. Their ‘Cowabunga Farm’ experience proved to be an amazing event. It was a flourishing intergenerational ministry of the congregation, with emerging youth being trained in small group leadership, older youth and young adults participating in music, drama and leadership roles, parents and older congregation members supporting craft, catering and caring for the 150 excited children in attendance. ‘ Come and see , ’ is an invitation I often receive as the Moderator. It is an invitation I enjoy because it puts me in touch with the ministries into which God is calling congregations. Our missional ministries are life-giving places where Jesus can be found by believers and those seeking hope and healing. The words ‘ come and see ’ are uttered by Jesus to the first people who followed him after his baptism (John 1: 28). They came to where Jesus was staying and remained there, enjoying new friendship, seeing and understanding new things. One of them was Andrew, who went immediately to share the news about Jesus with his brother Simon Peter. The next day, Philip invited Nathaniel to ‘ come and see ’ that something good had come out of Nazareth – Jesus. These hopeful disciples ministered to their friends by introducing them to Jesus. They were all eager to know of God ’ s intervention into their world, offering hope, liberation and freedom. Every missional ministry program we offer through our congregational life carries the invitation to ‘ come and see! ’ Come and see Jesus – see his love, see his care, see his healing, see his hope, see his friends and their lives. As members of congregations and bringers of these programs, our task is also to ‘ come and see ’ . As we serve , we come also to see what Jesus is doing with our work. When people discover the love of Jesus through our ministries, lives are transformed
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Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis attends Westbourne Park Uniting Church's holiday program and their ‘Cowabunga Farm’ experience.
by the Holy Spirit. New friendships are formed, discipleship is nurtured and as love is shared with people, new love grows and ministry flourishes. When ministries flourish, the kingdom of heaven comes in all its goodness and fullness of life. Make this the year that we and our ministries in the Uniting Church in South Australia flourish.
Rev Sue Ellis
As part of the year of flourish in ministry, the Moderator is seeking ‘come and see’ experiences at congregations and faith communities. Invite the Moderator to your missional activity so she can participate and witness in the ministry your church is extending to the wider community. Email moderator@sa.uca.org.au or telephone 08 8236 4221.
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ge n e ral se cre t ar y
Where to from here? “The Church lives between the time of Christ’ s death and resurrection and the final consummation of all things which Christ will bring; the Church is a pilgrim people, always on the way towards a promised goal; here the Church does not have a continuing city but seeks one to come. On the way Christ feeds the Church with Word and Sacraments, and it has the gift of the Spirit in order that it may not lose the way.” (Basis of Union, para. 3) Our pilgrim nature has never been more evident than over recent months as we have wrestled (in the best sense of the word) with the issue of same-gender marriage. This wrestling has been a feature of the meeting of the 15th Assembly in July 2018 as well as our own meeting of the SA Presbytery and Synod in November and, more recently, the meeting of the SA Presbytery held at the beginning of January. Throughout this process, we have all experienced a degree of pain and I imagine that this will be the case for some time to come. I am particularly aware of the outcomes of our meetings within South Australia. We are used to making decisions using the consensus decision-making process. Under normal circumstances that means that are almost all are in agreement with the final resolution that is decided upon. There may be a minority who stand aside one way or another but, generally speaking, we finish with something we can all agree with. As we have found, however, when a very divisive matter is brought to our Presbytery or Synod we need to move beyond consensus decisionmaking into formal procedures, in which a particular majority determines the outcomes. This can lead to clear decisions being made. However, as was the case at our recent Presbytery meeting, the majority can be as slim as 51 to 49 percent. A clear decision has been made, but a large minority of people may feel aggrieved or disenfranchised. Also in paragraph 3 of the Basis of Union we read: “The Church ’ s call is to serve that end; to be a fellowship of reconciliation, a body within which the diverse gifts of its members are used for the building up of the whole, an instrument through which Christ may work and bear witness to himself. ” Therein is the challenge for us all. Notwithstanding the pain, the differing theologies that have been expressed in our meetings, the disappointment we have experienced when decisions made did not line up with our own personal views, we still live together in that fellowship of reconciliation. Within that fellowship it is now time to resume our missional focus to get on with sharing the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The communities in which we live are diverse in their cultures, ethnicities and demographics. God needs our differing approaches and beliefs to ensure that all can be reached by the Word we are called to share. We now enter a very exciting time in which we will define new Presbyteries. One, at least, will cover the whole of the State. Others (we
don’ t yet know how many) may be located in particular regions. They will be in those various locations because that is where God is calling the Church to be. Or if there is only one other Presbytery, this too may cover the whole of the State. How will those Presbyteries function? How will congregations be supported and overseen by these new Presbyteries? Many new processes will be put in place to answer those questions. Throughout all of this we need to be continually open to the leading of God ’ s Spirit. Things will not be the same but we can rely on God to lead us into our new future together. The illustration that I am about to give does not come from a deep theological reflection. It ’ s not a quote that you’ ll find in the Bible. But nonetheless there is truth within it. As we move forward, as we experience the pain and excitement of doing things in new ways, as we seek to be a fellowship of reconciliation, working with each other to build God ’ s Church, this illustration provides helpful insight. As a frequent traveller to India over many years, one of my favourite films is The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel . In that film (and in the book that preceded it), the main character Sonny Kapoor is very much a ‘ glass half full ’ personality: forever optimistic! His classic comment is: “Everything will be all right in the end so if it is not all right it is not the end . ” (excuse the Americanised ‘ alright ’ ). And again from the Basis of Union (para. 5), “...the Church is a pilgrim people, always on the way towards a promised goal ... ” We are not at the end yet!
Rev Rob Brown BUT IT'S ALSO TRUE THAT THE PERSON WHO RISKS NOTHING, DOES NOTHING; HAS NOTHING. ALL WE KNOW ABOUT THE FUTURE IS THAT IT WILL BE DIFFERENT. BUT, PERHAPS WHAT WE FEAR IS THAT IT WILL BE THE SAME. SO, WE MUST CELEBRATE THE CHANGES. BECAUSE, AS SOMEONE ONCE SAID "EVERYTHING WILL BE ALL RIGHT IN THE END. AND IF IT'S NOT ALL RIGHT, THEN TRUST ME, IT'S NOT YET THE END."
Evelyn Greenslade (Judi Dench) THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
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leadership
Reaching youth on the fringes Petronella Lowies
Skateboarding doesn ’ t have the best of reputations. According to the Council, ” explains Christine. “We applied for a grant at the Marion Michael Harris-Walker, owner of Sk8 Therapy, there ’ s a good reason City Council and with the money we received we have been able to for that. host community barbeques in parks and purchase outdoor playing “Most kids who hang around skate parks are fairly troubled and equipment like a giant Jenga game. The skateboarding and scootering have it tough. They are either being bullied, workshops tied in nicely with our community neglected or simply in search of a place to barbeques and parents were appreciative belong , ” he says. of the safety and skills their children were Michael should know. He describes himself learning. This is a place we can be beside as having been a troubled child ‘until his late I have helped a lot more kids young families. ” twenties ’ . Homeless at 15, the skate park was Like most churches these days, Hallett in one year of skateboarding the only place where he felt safe, because there Cove UC can count the under 40s in workshops than I have ever were people he knew there. His experiences led managed to help in ten years their congregation on one hand. But their him to become a youth worker for a residential of being a youth worker. enthusiasm for community engagement organisation, but there was a yearning to has built, among other initiatives, a holiday do more. children ’ s program of more than 50 local kids, “I have helped a lot more kids in one year a well-attended weekly Music Capers session of skateboarding workshops than I have ever and a working ecumenical relationship with managed to help in ten years of being a youth other church denominations in the suburb. worker, ” he says. “That is why I started Sk8 Therapy. You can make a This relationship with other churches has led to hosting joint annual child so much more confident by showing them what they can achieve events such as community carols and supplying ecumenical services rather than telling them. ” which support the Schools Ministry Group. Now it ’ s Michael ’ s mission to help those kids find confidence in themselves. Through skateboarding workshops he teaches them life Building confidence changes lives skills, gives them a way to participate in community and hopes to While the suburb of Hallett Cove cannot be described as change the reputation of the sport of skateboarding as he journeys. underprivileged, there are nevertheless a number of kids left to their own devices at the local skate park. Citywide, the need for Building community beside young families skateboarding workshops and the mentoring that goes with it is clear. It is this community participation aspect of Sk8 Therapy that got Since Sk8 Therapy opened its doors just over a year ago, Michael and Hallett Cove Uniting Church involved in setting up skateboarding his team have presented more than 500 workshops and 160 private workshops in the local area. According to their minister, Rev Christine one-on-one sessions. Through the NDIS they also work specifically Manning, the skateboarding kids’ appetite for high risk is also an with children with disabilities – from physical ailments to children indication of strong leadership qualities, which is why she feels strongly diagnosed with autism. about channelling their abilities in a positive way. Michael says the difference in these kids from when he started In partnership with the Marion City working with them and where they are today is phenomenal. Council, the church held their first “The confidence these kids gain by achieving something physically skateboarding workshop and community and mentally demanding does not only change their abilities, but their barbeque at the Hallett Cove Skate Park whole attitude to life, ” he says. in September of last year, and a second is planned for 24 February. If you would like to host a skateboarding workshop in your congregation’s “We were looking for ways to be more car park or at your local skate park, get in touch with Sk8 Therapy involved in our immediate community as a through their website sk8therapy.com, sending an email to church and invited Sk8 Therapy to partner michael@sk8therapy.com or by calling Michael on 0416 588 638. with us through the youth department of
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leadership
From church to club
Pictured Page 6: Rev Christine Manning connects with community members. Pictured Above: Michael Harris-Walker assists kids in a skateboarding workshop at Hallet Cove Skate Park.
Sports chaplaincy in Australia only really started to get some recognition and traction in 1984 when Rev Mark Tronson was appointed as chaplain to Australia ’ s Test Cricket team. Since then, Sports Chaplaincy Australia has grown in leaps and bounds with most professional and amateur sporting clubs now being supported by a chaplain. In a sports-crazy society such as Australia, where most games and competitions seem to have moved into Sunday morning time slots, this makes a great deal of sense. “What we found is that people aren ’ t going to church, they are going to sporting clubs. If we can be in those clubs, supporting and caring for those people and representing Jesus while we do it, then that ’ s a really good opportunity , ” says Simon Johnson, chaplain for the Glenelg Tigers Football Club. In the eleven years that Simon has been with the Glenelg Tigers, he has seen sports chaplaincy grow as a service across a wide range of sports, but especially so in the countryside. The local sports club is the new place to build community whereas in the past it used to be the church. “As awareness for sports chaplaincy services grow, the need for it seems to grow too , ” he says. Sometimes the value of a sports chaplain only becomes evident when tragedy strikes. “Providing pastoral support to those who would never expect it is invaluable and there seems to be a real appreciation for the services we offer . ” Simon explains: “This is because sports chaplaincy is not about trying to get the best possible performance out of athletes. It ’ s about making sure they are okay within themselves. It is pastoral care for the individual, not the end result. Also, a club is a community that encompasses all the coaching and support staff too, as well as their families, not just the individual athletes . ” When a club appoints a sports chaplain, they are acting proactively in providing care for everyone involved, for both the tough times and the good times ahead. Sports chaplains are volunteers. In South Australia there are over 80 sports chaplains across a broad range of sports. Simon explains that anyone can become a sports chaplain, as long as you are committed to your local church. “We do believe that a spiritual grounding as provided by a congregation of faith is essential . ” Training, which is offered through Sports Chaplaincy Australia, is recommended but not necessary. The organisation is seeking to train as many men and women as possible to place with sporting communities that have a need for chaplaincy. Interested in sports chaplaincy? Contact Simon or Roger Johnson on 0429 356 601 or sa@sportschaplaincy.com.au.
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Religious Freedom Rev Sandy Boyce
In 2018, the Hon Philip Ruddock convened an ‘ expert panel ’ to determine if the Australian law adequately protects the human right to freedom of religion. The panel heard from thousands of Australians, including members of the Uniting Church, and this formed the basis of the final report. The issues around religious freedom are often complex, with emotional rhetoric focused on limitations to freedom of belief and worship or imposition. The Ruddock report included sections on responses to blasphemy, vilification and discrimination revealing the necessity to deal with the latent social hostility which can arise from exclusivist religious positions that are deemed to need protection over and against other religious practices. Religious freedom is enshrined in international law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 18 of the ICCPR defines religious freedom as: the freedom of “ thought , conscience, and religion”; the freedom to practise religion as an individual or in a group, publically or privately; the freedom from coercion; and the freedom “ to ensure the religious and moral education of their children in conformity with their own convictions ” . The UCA Assembly submission reiterated the commitment to the right of religious freedom for every person as outlined in Article 18. The submission also emphasised that this protection should be set within a broad commitment to uphold all human rights. Living in a multi-cultural and multi-religious global village means being actively vigilant so that the human rights of other citizens are not diminished. All people need to be free to practise their religious beliefs while holding respect for diversity and difference and demonstrating religious tolerance at the same time. However, religious freedom must almost always give way when it impacts upon anyone else ’ s human rights. What we need to remember is that our beginning point is a fundamental respect for our fellow human beings. In the last Census of Population and Housing, 58% of Australians identified as Christian. Of these, only 27% of these people thought religion was “very important” , as indicated by a Pew Research Centre poll. So what does it mean for the Christian faith to be practised in a society where many other faiths and beliefs co-exist in the public arena? The Uniting Church ’ s commitment to a diverse society means that “ ...while we recognise that there may be cause for certain exceptions or exemptions for discrimination by religious organisations, these should be limited in scope, being only as is required in order to maintain the integrity and existence of the religious organisation. We do not as a general principle believe that such exceptions should be provided to
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individuals or businesses seeking to discriminate against other people on the basis of religious belief . ” The apostle Paul in Acts 17 delivers a speech that begins: “Athenians, I see how extremely religious you are in every way. ” He had found among the objects of worship in the city an altar with the inscription “To an Unknown God. ” This becomes his rhetorical starting place to proclaim his known God, the one and only God, “ the God who made the world and everything in it, the One who is Lord of heaven and earth.” His contribution to the world of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers was to share what he knew about the revelation of God in Jesus Christ. People interested in the ‘world of ideas’ engaged with his message, glad to hear this new teaching. Paul concludes with a reference to a day of judgment to come, calling for all people everywhere to begin to repent - the religious as well as the nonreligious, and philosophers and atheists. It is not argued from a position of privilege, since Paul says none stand outside judgment. It is an invitation to turn towards Jesus as ‘The Way ’ , a living faith where the gifts of God ’ s Spirit bring healing and wholeness. Paul acknowledged those in our searching for God, no matter what our tradition, God is not far from each one of us. Indeed, he affirmed that in God we all “live and move and have our being. ” Freedom of religion invites us to think about how Christians view their own religious (and sometimes local and cultural) practices, and that of other religions. It invites us to reflect on freedom ‘ from religion ’ for people who have no particular religious affiliation. Professor Diana Eck in her book, Encountering God, speaks about the diversity of understandings about God as an opportunity for robust engagement and dialogue with one another. It does not mean giving up our Christian commitments; rather, those commitments are integral if we are to be credible dialogue partners. Our Christian commitments are the foundation for the give-and-take of mutual discovery, understanding, and, indeed, transformation. Rev Sandy Boyce is Convener of the Public Theology and Mission sub-committee of the Mission and Leadership Development Board, SA Synod, and Deacon in Placement at Pilgrim Uniting Church.
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n ew s
NYALC conference Nicole Mugford
The National Young Adult Leaders Conference (NYALC) was held from 17-20 January at Nunyara Camp and Conference Centre in the Adelaide foothills. There were 150 leaders from across the country who gathered for four days of community. The gathering represented our multicultural and diverse church, with the rich diversity adding to worship and the formation of many new friendships. Over the four days of the conference, we journeyed through the book of Ruth. Young leaders led all aspects of the conference: leading worship, running activities, hosting discussions and leading the bible study. The opportunity to sit with and discuss things that are important to us with the President and all six Moderators was a highlight, as young leaders shared passions and hopes for the Uniting Church. The theme of NYALC was L.E.A.D. (live, embrace, act, disciple). During leadership sessions Naomi Nash, CEO of New River Leadership, empowered us to consider the places we have offered leadership, learnt skills and tools to help us develop our leadership abilities with confidence. Participating in the first Day of Mourning service together, visiting the Colebrook Reconciliation Park and hearing from Sean Weetra and
Attendees gather at Nunyara for NYALC 2019.
Special Presbytery meeting
Restructuring task group
On 5 January 2019 the Presbytery of South Australia gathered at Adelaide West Uniting Church in response to a request from members to reconsider a proposal from the November P&S meeting where a decision failed to be reached. The Proposal was that the 15th Assembly marriage decision ‘was a matter vital to the life of the Church and made without prior adequate consultation ’ . The voting members of the Special Presbytery Meeting did not pass the Proposal. In a pastoral letter distributed after the close of the meeting, the Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis said, “For many years, we have been a church in deep pain around the recognition of people of same gender orientation into the full life of our church. That pain has not ended for LGBTQI+ people or for others with particular theological views . ” A Special Meeting of the Synod is scheduled for 9 February 2019. The meeting has been called to determine the appointment of a new General Secretary and to consider Proposals not dealt with at the November 2018 meeting of the Presbytery and Synod. New Times will publish further information as a result of this meeting in the April/May edition and online via the Uniting Church SA website and UC e-News.
At the November 2018 Presbytery and Synod meeting it was agreed that the existing structure of one Presbytery and one Synod (that has been in place since 2006) would be modified to allow more than one Presbytery . The Uniting Church SA now needs to define the new Presbytery(ies). One, at least will cover the whole of the State and has already begun work establishing a non-geographic Presbytery . A Restructuring Task Group Committee has been appointed by Standing Committee to begin the work of separating the Presbytery and Synod of South Australia. The task group will help form the new Presbytery(ies) and will also work to clarify which functions may need to remain centralised and which will be the function of a new Presbytery(ies).
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other Congress leaders was a moving experience which challenged our thinking about what it means to live out our covenant relationship with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress as the Uniting Church. What was clear over the four days we gathered together, was that the Uniting Church includes gifted young adults who are exercising significant leadership both inside and outside the church. They are passionate, skilled, and hopeful young leaders who are ready to step into change and new opportunities.
A web page has been created to share information, minutes and updates from the restructuring task group. The page can be accessed here: sa.uca.org. au/presbytery-and-synod/restructure. The contact for the task group is Rev Rob Brown (Interim General Secretary) who can be contacted on 08 8236 4232 or via email gensec@sa.uca.org.au.
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l eew n a dse r s h i p
Pancake Day gives families a reason to smile Pancake Day is around the corner and you ’ re invited to participate in our 17th year! Pancake Day helps UnitingCare organisations to provide services to people in need here in SA. UnitingSA, an organisation in the UnitingCare SA network, has a Pancake Day event each year and uses funds raised to provide extra Emergency Relief to families facing financial hardship in the western suburbs. Pancake Day funds have allowed UnitingSA to buy back-to-school packs for families who otherwise would not be able to afford the educational necessities. Connected Families worker Tashara Hague says the experience of one of the recipients highlights the value of school packs for children in need. “ A ten-year-old girl I work with received a lunch box in her school pack, ” she says. “Her granddad reported back to me that she can ’ t wait to get up in the morning and make her own lunch now, and then she cleans it first thing when she gets home from school. Something so little can make such a big difference . ” UnitingSA has also put the funds towards helping people on bridging visas, who often miss out on vital support because their visa status prevents them from obtaining government-funded assistance. The funds raised allowed the organisation to buy supermarket vouchers to support them. “Because of Pancake Day, we were able to help these people buy food and other necessary items to ensure they can support their families, ” Cindy Adey, Anti-Poverty Team Leader says. “It is such a relief to be able to assist people who would otherwise miss out . ”
Rebecca Morse (10 News) will be flipping pancakes at Resthaven Malvern in 2019.
Preparations for KCO 2019 are in full swing. Registration has opened and more information can be found on the KCO webpage sa.uca.org.au/kco or via the Yapp app: https://my.yapp.us/WQEY52 KCO Program Director David Buxton is enthused about the 2019 event and how children will experience this year ’ s theme WELCOME - A PLACE TO BELONG. “I’m a great believer in opportunities where our children can get to experience the wider church in action – to see themselves as part of the gospel story that includes so many others and to share this experience with friends old and new , ” says David. “KCO offers this and so much more. We ’ d love to have you on board, and if you ’ d like to find out more then please get in touch and we will do our very best to help . ” KCO is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help run the program. If you are available and interested please contact Team Leader Mark Schultz on mschultz@sa.uca.org.au.
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Cycling for Christ Tasha Crumpler
South Australian Matthew Glaetzer has followed his passion and calling since he was 16 years of age; but it wasn’t without hard work and a solid faith in God . Growing up strongly enthusiastic for sports , Matthew tried his hand at several types before he found his first passion in pole vaulting . “I specialised in pole vaulting until I was 12/13 years old and I loved it. I got quite good at it too. I could jump 3 metres and I came second in the national championships . ” But through multiple hamstring injuries and a development of Osgood-Schlatter disease (inflammation that is common during growth spurts) in his knees, Matthew was forced to give up the sport. It was during this time that Matthew found his connection to Christ was failing. “When I had to quit pole vaulting I struggled. I became a bit trial where he not only set a new personal best but also set a new rebellious at school and I started to drift from my faith. I became more sprint record for the 1km time trial at sea level with a time of 59.3 focused on what people said to me, which affected my self-image. ” seconds. The fastest time ever recorded for this event was 56.3 seconds “ It was three years later when my faith was kick-started again at a which is held by French cyclist François Pervis. who competed 1887 youth camp through my church. I had a powerful encounter through metres above sea level which is notably an altitude where atmospheric praise and worship during which God revealed to me that I’ve been conditions make it significantly easier to go faster . given a gift to show Jesus through me. It was an important moment to Now firmly in his career , Matthew has found the hardest aspect think, okay so this is what I can do and it’s not for my glory but God ’ s . ” of being a professional cyclist is maintaining perspective and not Two years after quitting pole vaulting, whilst keeping his distance succumbing to the internal competition that sporting events can place from sports to heal from injury, Matthew’ s English teacher suggested on individuals . he attempt a triathlon. During the “It’ s a very ego driven cycling leg of the multisport race environment which makes it Matthew found an enjoyment for difficult to make sure that you the sport and quickly joined a club have your perspective right and However , my identity isn ’ t in what I do or my to become more involved. Three your priorities in line because it achievements, it ’ s in Christ. Through God I years later Matthew placed first can be very easy to get distracted. find I can have a different perspective on the by 0.001 of a second in the 2012 What helps me is to remember profession and my performances . World Championships for Men’s that I’ m not just there to ride a Team Sprint and finished fourth bike. Of course all I do is just ride with his teammates for the Men’s a bike in circles but I know I ’ m Team Sprint during the 2012 there for a greater purpose than London Olympic Games. just to ride. ” “Looking back now , I believe it was completely God ’ s plan for me Matthew ’ s Christian outlook on competitive sport helps to keep him to find the sport. I know I was always good at all the sports I did , but grounded as the pressure and expectation to succeed can be deafening. cycling was just a rapid trip to the top where three years after starting “ If you’ re not winning gold, people don ’ t care. It’s so hard just to the sport I was an Olympian and World Champion. That doesn’ t win a medal and then you kind of feel pushed aside if you ’ re not that normally happen, so I know that this is definitely where I’m supposed number one person. It can be detrimental to the athlete ’ s mental health to be . ” too because you ’ re always trying to win and you don ’ t get recognition Matthew ’ s achievements have since skyrocketed, culminating in for the hard work and effort you’ ve put in if you don ’ t . ” his huge win in the 2018 Commonwealth Games for the 1km time
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fa i t h
“ However , my identity isn ’ t in what I do or my achievements, it ’ s in Christ. Through God I find I can have a different perspective on the profession and my performances . Even though I might have a bad result I know at the end of the day that it doesn’t affect who I am. My grounding as a person is deeper than what I do . ” Matthew ’ s advice to others, not just those in competitive sport is to focus on yourself not others. “ It ’ s just being comfortable with your own performance. Being focused on the end result and your placing can be dangerous. As long as it ’ s the best you could have done, then be proud of that, and if someone is better, then celebrate with them because it ’ s really impressive what they ’ ve done . ” For more information on Matthew’s career and upcoming events head to his Facebook page: facebook.com/MattGlaetzer/
Pictured: Matthew Glaetzer in prayer and competition.
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c u l t u re
A sporting community with a difference It ’ s a little known fact that one of the biggest church-associated sports competitions is situated in South Australia. With 90 teams actively playing, the South Australian Church Basketball Association (SACBA) is also one of metropolitan Adelaide ’ s biggest competitions. “And we are aiming to get bigger, ” says Tristan Prentice, the organisation ’ s Growth/Development Officer. “We are introducing more teams into our junior and women ’ s competitions, and we have just established an Under-20 ’ s competition – the only one of its kind in the state. ” For many families, South Australian Church Basketball Association (SACBA) is almost a tradition. Three generations of kids and adults alike have played in this ecumenical competition and, in some cases, for the same club within the competition. This is where they have made life-long friends since the 1950s. “The great thing about church basketball is that it fills the gap perfectly between the heavily-competitive (and expensive) district basketball and the social leagues. We are more professionally run than the social leagues but with fees that compare really well. For a very long time we were also the only basketball competition in the state that played on Saturday afternoons rather than on Sundays and weeknights. ” While not all the players in the competition are necessarily Christian, the church link, culture and ethos are strong. The community cares as much about the individual player and their life journey as they do about the lessons that come with competitive team sports. Tristan describes an incident that embodies the caring nature of the basketball league: “We were about to play a match in last year ’ s finals when we noticed our opposing team were all wearing black arm bands. It turned out that the team had recently tragically lost one of their young players. Our team offered to pray for them, which they gladly accepted, and that was the spirit in which we all started that match. ” Something else that distinguishes church basketball from the other competitions is the compassion shown by the match referees. Instead of just solely enforcing the rules, they coach the younger players while refereeing the match. The referees explain the rules to the younger players and tell them why they have been penalised and, where necessary, apply mercy rules to support learning and make matches more even. If you are interested in playing or would like to enrol a team in the SACBA 2019 competition, contact the SACBA via their website sachurchbasketball.sportingpulse.net, send an email to sachurchbball@gmail.com or call Josh Nottle (Competition Administrator) on 0476 262 011.
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Pictured Above and Below: SACBA players compete at Wayville Sports Centre.
The Uniting Church in South Australia currently has five congregations who have their own teams that compete in the SA Church Basketball competition. These congregations are always looking for more players to join. Contact a church near you: Seeds UC, The Corner UC, Spicer UC and Burnside City UC. Coro Valley UC also recently joined the competition.
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c u l t u re
Churches on the Fringe February and March in Adelaide spells FRINGE. This year there are three Uniting Churches chipping in as venues for the Adelaide Fringe and Adelaide Festival shows. Here are some of the shows hosted at Uniting Church venues:
The Visual Art of Alon Kabaale: 18 Feb – 15 March at Pilgrim Uniting Church Alon Kabaale, an artist from Uganda in East Africa, exhibits his paintings, antiques, batiks and sculptures that tell stories about the warmth of various African cultures, nature and wildlife.
Tosca: 19 – 23 Feb at Clayton Wesley Uniting Church (The Spire Community) An intimate production of Puccini’s classic intensely dramatic opera. A compelling tale of passionate love, deceit, murder and revolution told with extraordinarily beautiful music. Starring Joanna McWaters, Joshua Rowe, Andrew Turner, Daniel Goodburn and Rodney Kirk.
Bennett, Bowtell and Urquhart: 22 Feb at Church of the Trinity Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart's live performance is a beautiful thing to witness, acoustic instruments, three part vocal harmonies, a deep respect for each other and an almost spiritual quality that will lift your spirits and enrich your soul.
Ralph McTell: 13 – 14 March at Church of the Trinity Lose yourself in fabled folk singer-songwriter Ralph McTell's storytelling style, 50 years on from the release of his debut album, Eight Frames a Second.
Sax to the Max: 24 Feb – 10 March at Clayton Wesley Uniting Church (The Spire Community) Each member of the quartet SAXISM comes from a somewhat varied background. They play a wide variety of music from classical to jazz.
Sufi Music Party - Farhan Shah & Brothers: 24 Feb at Church of the Trinity Sufi music from Pakistan and North India will be presented in both a traditional and contemporary styles. Featuring mystical music that stretches back almost a thousand years into the Middle East and South Asia, Sufi music is inspired by poetry to the creator and the universe. Hypnotic, energetic, meditative, ambient, uplifting, soulful, optimistic.
Adelaide Fringe tickets can be purchased online at adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix or via phone from 9.30am on 1300 621 255 or at the Rundle Mall Box Office (near Twin Street), Adelaide. Adelaide Festival tickets can be purchased online at adelaidefestival.com.au or through, Bass 131 246.
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g e t t i n g t o k n o w. . .
Mission Resourcing Mark Schultz (Team Leader Mission Resourcing)
Mission is one of the most vital components of who we are as the church. As we look around the various congregations and communities who form the Uniting Church in South Australia, there is an almost overwhelming range of ways in which we are engaged in the mission of God. But there are also many other opportunities for new ventures, to refine what we do and see some of God ’ s hopes for the church realised. Mission Resourcing is a team within the Synod of South Australia committed to doing just that. At a team retreat and planning day Mission Resourcing developed the following mission statement: “ As followers of Christ, we are called and committed to listen, equip and partner with the people of God to participate in the transforming mission of God in the church and all creation. ” Over the coming issues of New Times, we will introduce you to different Mission Resourcing team members so that you can connect with them. We invite you to share where you see God at work in your patch, and to discover how your congregation or faith community might discover and tackle new opportunities in the future.
Introducing Tim Littleford - Intergenerational Discipleship Developer, Youth & Young Adults
What three words best describe you to our readers who haven’t met you yet? A ponderer, a wanderer and a pioneer. Can you tell us about your faith journey and background in the Uniting Church? I grew up at Brooklyn Park UC, then Adelaide West UC and loved it. When I began High School, we moved to Gawler UC where my Dad became an ordained minister. Away from all my Christian friends I began to investigate for myself whether God was real or if my parents were just nuts. So I jumped into whatever church and the books I could find had to offer. At a Uniting Church youth camp at age 15 or 16 I had a profound spiritual experience, I felt the hand of God physically touch me and his Spirit come upon me and I knew that if my parents were nuts, then I had equally lost it. I have changed though, once I was too scared to talk to anyone about Jesus, now I take any
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Pictured: Ash and Tim Littleford
opportunity I can get. In Year 12 I had an opportunity to share the Good News about Jesus with two friends, and they came to know Jesus and were changed too. God used me, even me, to reach those who were far from him. This lit me up. God is in the business of transforming lives – and he wants to use me? Yeah! I ’ m all-in on that! Everybody needs to know this! When did you begin taking on more leadership roles within the church and what inspired you to pursue ministry further? I had no idea what I wanted to do after High School, but God had ideas. All the different clichés where God opens a door somehow are true for my life. From Youth Leader to Chaplain to Youth Pastor to Pastor. As a teenager I always said I would never be a pastor or work in ministry, but
God has funnelled me through door after door, along the way helping me to understand that he has given me a pastor ’ s heart, he has created me for and with a purpose, and to never, ever say you’ ll never do something. What is the ideal landscape for young people within the Uniting Church? Young people don’ t need a social group, or a club, there are plenty of those out there. They want to be a part of a movement. The good thing is we are a part of the greatest movement in human history – a movement of God ’ s kingdom manifesting here in our communities as it is in heaven. We can just forget that sometimes. Don ’ t just give young people a part in your worship service, get alongside them, give them a shovel and break new ground for the Kingdom of God in your community together.
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g e t t i n g t o k n o w. . .
Introducing Sitiveni (Siti) Rogoimuri - Covenanting and International Mission Officer
What three words best describe you to our readers who haven’t met you yet? Open, listener, (sometimes) different. Can you tell us about your faith journey and background in the Uniting Church? I started off my membership in the Parramatta Parish Mission of the Parramatta/Nepean Presbytery (NSW Synod). As a young adult, I loved and attended four National Christian Youth Convention gatherings. I have been actively involved in the formation and negotiation of the Fijian congregation in the Parramatta Mission. When did you begin taking on more leadership roles within the church and what inspired you to pursue ministry further? I was a youth leader with the Fijian Congregation from 1981-1987 and was the Parramatta Fijian congregation Chairperson and Pastor from 1991 to 1994. From 1996 to 1999 I was a Candidate for Minister of the Word with the United Theological College, NSW Synod. In South Australia I have held Lay Preacher roles in the Berri Uniting Church and most recently, the Vermont Uniting Church. I guess I have been inspired by the ongoing need for Christian leadership for Fijian diaspora. As is the tradition, most of us were formally farewelled by our home church upon leaving Fiji and are reminded of the value of remaining in the church for nurturing our faith.
Pictured: Sitiveni (Siti) Rogoimuri
What is the ideal landscape for our congregations’ relationships in Covenanting with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress and International Mission partners? An active commitment and openness to engage with the local Indigenous community and be in solidarity with Australia ’ s First Peoples through the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) by actively pursuing Covenanting activities. As an Australian Church, UCA SA congregations are encouraged to uphold and value our covenant with First Peoples. This comes from the heart (and theological endeavour) as it can add flesh to our faith journey. For International Mission, I ’ d like to see more support groups set up for other partner churches in Asia and Melanesia. I would also like to initiate ongoing exposure visits and grow relationships with members of congregations. It is important to learn and share from experiences beyond our faith community and culture.
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out & about
Out & About
Burra Uniting Church welcomed new minister, Rev June Ladner, on Sunday 2 December 2018. June (on the left) became the congregation’ s 65th minister and was inducted by Rev Ashley Davis (Presbytery Representative). Also present and pictured were Rev Jane McDonald from Ardrossan Uniting Church and John Arthur, Chair of Burra Church Council. Members from the local Anglican and Lutheran congregations welcomed June alongside the Burra Uniting Church congregation.
On 19 December 2018 the Noarlunga Uniting Church Christmas Carols event attracted a considerable crowd to Ramsay Place at the Colonnades Shopping Centre. The Onkaparinga City Band played alongside the Noarlunga Uniting Church Choir, singing Christmas Carols in front of the Hopgood Theatre. There were plenty of stalls for the children to enjoy and the evening was attended by dignitaries including Ms Nat Cook (MP) and Ms Katrine Hildyard (MP).
The Willunga Christmas Tree Festival, hosted by Willunga Uniting Church, proved to be a huge success last year with a large attendance from the community that celebrated the Christmas story in songs, hospitality and trees. With the theme of “Going Green”, every Christmas tree in the Festival was accompanied with its story, how it originated, how it was inspired and created. This year the overall prize was awarded to Alison Gostlow with an intricate Bee Green tree.
On Christmas Day, Noarlunga Uniting Church hosted a two course traditional Christmas lunch for those in the surrounding community who had nowhere else to go. There were 49 people who attended and celebrated Christmas together. Thanks to the generosity of the Adelaide West Men’ s Choir and the congregation at Seeds Uniting Church, everyone who attended was also able to take a hamper home. Sadly, the current church facility couldn’t accommodate more than 49, so some people had to be turned away. The congregation has a bold plan to create new facilities and provide more food to those who need it throughout the year. If any individual or church feels called to help with donations of food please contact Noarlunga Uniting Church 08 8384 3868.
Photo Credit: Warren Bradley.
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out & about
Each child baptised at Echunga Uniting Church over recent years has received a special Baptism Bear created by the local Craft, Cuppa & Cards group. In October 2018, a Baptism Bears Picnic was held to reconnect with some of these families. According to Rev Matt Carratt, this may become a tradition. Pictured here are Riley Pietsch, Josiah Carratt, Hannah Stapleton, Lachlan Kelly and Archer Bolton with their Baptism Bears.
Rev Christine Manning of Hallett Cove Uniting Church challenged Nicholas, a local youngster, to a game of giant Jenga during the Hallett Cove Community Carols event held on Friday 7 December 2018. This well-attended event is held annually through ecumenical relationships with other Christian denominations in the suburb. (P.S. Nicholas won)
Out & About profiles, events and happenings across the Uniting Church in South Australia and beyond. Do you have a photo of your event that you would like to see featured here? If so, please send it to us along with a description of what happened, where it happened and who is in the picture. We can only print high resolution photographs sent as attachments to newtimes@sa.uca. org.au. Keep them coming!
letter to the editor
Adelaide celebrated the The Living the Change initiative from 7-14 October 2018. The event was organised by the Multi-faith SA Network, Environmental Action Group (UCA-SA) and City of Adelaide. Participants at the launch discussed ways their communities can care for the Earth in line with their faith teachings that call for “ generosity, compassion and responsible action ”. Highlights of the day were a performance by the Dusty Feet Mob troupe from Port Augusta, reflections and commitments to “Living the Change”, and an interfaith blessing before a shared vegan meal. Interested to make a pledge? Sign up at https://livingthechange. net/commitment-tool to connect with faiths across South Australia, working towards a healthier earth. Pictured is Rev Liellie McLaughlin with Dusty Feet Mob.
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Thank you to New Times for publishing a paragraph about Packing Day in the “Out and About” section of the December/January edition. I wanted to make UC readers aware that without the generosity of Allied Pickfords and Sea Swift, none of the work of Packing Day would occur. A big ‘thank-you’ to these organisations for the generosity they extend to this project and we would highly recommend their services. Peter Cranwell Convenor – Packing Day Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.
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diary LAUNCH OF THE BIBLE APP “JUST EARTH” . Thursday 14 February, 7:30pm. Effective Living Centre. You are invited to the launch of Environmental Action Group ’ s new Bible Study App “Just Earth” by Uniting Church Australia President, Dr Deidre Palmer. With guest speaker, Dr Ingo Weber, Doctors for the Environment, Australia on the topic: Health Impacts of Climate Change, Especially on Children. For more information, contact Brian Phillips on 0426 849 885 or email office@effectiveliving.org GROWING YOUNG CONFERENCE. Saturday 16 February, 9am – 4pm. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Jake Mulder is the Director of Strategic Initiatives with the Fuller Youth Institute in USA and is in Adelaide for a 1 day Conference that will help churches to engage with 15-29 year olds and encourage them in their ministry. Cost: $35 per person, (or $25 each for a group of 5 or more) this is an opportunity not to be missed. For more information, contact Bev Freeman on 08 8236 4243 or email bfreeman@sa.uca.org.au AN EVENING WITH JAKE MULDER. Saturday 16 February. 7:30pm – 9pm. Uniting College for Leadership and Theology. As those who seek to encourage others in ministry, being aware of up-to-date evidence-based research on how churches are effectively engaging 15-29 year olds can be really helpful. Add to this, an opportunity to hear from, and ask questions directly to the researcher and Director of Strategic Initiatives at Fuller Youth Institute. Commencing at 7.30pm at Uniting College, this evening is presented by Mission Resourcing and is freely available to anyone working with youth. RSVP by February 12 to 8236 4243. For more information, contact Bev Freeman on 08 8236 4243 or email bfreeman@sa.uca.org.au PUBLIC LECTURE- “MORE THAN FOUR? COMPARING THE GOSPEL OF JOHN WITH THE GOSPEL OF THOMAS” . Friday 1 March, 7:30pm - 9pm. Uniting College for Leadership & Theology/ Yarthu Apinthi. All are welcome to attend a public lecture by Professor Francis Watson of Durham University. The title of the lecture is “More than Four? Comparing the Gospel of John with the Gospel of Thomas” . This lecture explores the formation of the canonical boundary and compares selected passages and key theological themes between these two writings. The cost is $10 per person and bookings can be made via the Uniting College website (unitingcollege.edu.au) or on the night. For more information, contact Uniting College for Leadership & Theology on 08 8416 8420 or email info@unitingcollege.edu.au ENGAGING WITH UNFAMILIAR GOSPELS – SEMINAR. Saturday 2 March, 10am – 3:30pm. Uniting College for Leadership & Theology/Yarthu Apinthi. All are welcome to attend a Seminar by Professor Francis Watson of Durham University titled “Engaging with Unfamiliar Gospels” . (1) The Gospel of Judas and early Judas traditions. (2) Revisiting Easter Morning: the Epistula Apostolorum. Cost is $50 per person. Morning and afternoon tea provided, please bring your own lunch. Enrolments can be made via the Uniting College website (unitingcollege.edu.au). For more information, contact Uniting College for Leadership & Theology on 08 8416 8420 or
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email info@unitingcollege.edu.au 170th CHURCH ANNIVERSARY. Sunday 17 March, 9:30am 12pm. Cherry Gardens Uniting Church. Cherry Gardens Uniting Church will celebrate their 170th Anniversary. The Moderator of the Uniting Church in South Australia, Rev Sue Ellis will speak at the service. For more information, contact Dianne Dyson on 0427 863 429 or email dirdyson@yahoo.com.au GAWLER UNITING CHURCH’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY. Sunday 24 March, 11am - 4pm. Gawler Uniting Church. The presentday congregation will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Tod Street church. All present and former worshippers are invited to the anniversary worship service with the guest preacher, Rev Sue Ellis, Moderator of Uniting Church SA. After the service, there will be a shared lunch in the church hall, followed by a Pleasant Sunday Afternoon concert to be held in the church commencing at 2pm. If those attending have old photos or memorabilia to share with others in a display they are invited to bring those items on the day. For more information or to RSVP (for catering purposes) please contact David Taplin on 08 8523 4303 or email office@gawleruniting.org.au or davidtaplin@bigpond.com CHRISTIAN MEDITATION: GIFT FOR LIFE. Friday 29 March, 9am – 3:30pm. The Monastery Function Centre. This day is recommended for teachers, school chaplains and anyone who would like to teach children how to meditate. For further information and to register, please email mirellapace49@gmail.com. Bookings are essential. LENTEN COMMUNITY DAY. Saturday 30 March, 11am – 3pm. St Saviour's Anglican Church. Lent: A season of Losing and Finding. Mirella Pace and Penny Sturrock from the World Community of Christian Meditation Australia will lead this Lenten Day. The group will meditate, reflect, and enjoy lunch, with discussions and news in the afternoon. Please bring lunch to share and bring your own cup. Suggested donation: $15. For more information, email chr.med. southaust@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/ACMCmeditation Diary events are submitted online and featured on the Uniting Church SA website (sa.uca.org.au), in UC e-News and in New Times (deadline permitting). To submit your event please visit sa.uca.org.au/events/submit-an-event
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letters to the editor
Re: New Times Article – “When the Bible says something I don’t like.” Issue Dec/Jan 2019 I was confronted when I read this article for a couple of reasons. I believe in the sovereignty of God . I have been a practising Christian for over 60 years and believe absolutely in the life and divinity of Jesus Christ, his ministry on Earth, his crucifixion as an atonement for our sins, his resurrection and his ascent to his Father in Heaven thereby opening a portal for all of us to also gain entrance to our life everlasting. As the author of the article is an esteemed, respected and experienced pastor I am sure that his address was insightful and instructive. What I objected to was the decision to crop the address and then the editorial decision to include the picture that accompanied the article. However well-intentioned it may have been, I viewed it as yet another put down for women as it presents the image of a befuddled women thereby alluding that it is women who do not have the facility to understand the Bible . This is something I repudiate. Yes , the Bible texts were written by men in a very male-centric society when women were not worth considering thereby setting the precedent for the valuation of men within the Christian ethos. However, women are more than capable of understanding the Bible as well. I find it confronting that this image of a Christian woman still persists and that this was the picture selected to accompany the article. I don’t usually respond to articles printed in the New Times but this had to be an exception as I found it to be disturbing to my faith. The message in the article was interesting but the whole tone was brought down by the accompanying image. The article would have been better received without it .
classifieds BOARD AVAILABLE Board Available in North Eastern suburbs of Adelaide for a country student. Close to transport links. $100 per week. Telephone: 0437 527 771. MORIALTA CHARITABLE TRUST FUND Morialta Charitable Trust Fund has been supporting disadvantaged children, young people and their families in South Australia through its annual program of distributions for 40 years.To enable the Fund to continue this support through community organisations in South Australia, Morialta Charitable Trust Fund seeks donations from the public.Donations of $2- and above are tax deductible and can be forwarded to the Morialta Charitable Trust Fund at PO Box 92, Crafers SA 5152. SUNDAY SCHOOL RECORDS Interested if any Sunday School records exist from the 1960’s for Sydenham Road Methodist Church, Norwood (now privately owned) and the East Parade Methodist Church (Parade Road, Beulah Park-now Korean Church). Please contact me on 08 8523 0831 or email diannegawler1960@gmail.com if you have any information.
Irene Meyer The Vines Uniting Church
The article by Andrew Dutney in the December2018/January 2019 “ When the Bible says something I don’t like ” was both helpful and timely. Sooner or later someone is going to read a passage similar to Joshua 10:12-14 as part of a Church service and at the end of the reading recite the usual “This is the word of God” and everyone will dutifully reply “ Thanks be to God ” – except for me. I’ll be thinking this God appears to be guilty of war crimes. This can’t be the God we adore can it? Surely it would be better to end by saying “In this is the word of God” . At least then I might be challenged to find what this passage has to say to today ’ s world. Trevor Lloyd McLaren Vale Uniting Church Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.
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l eew n a dse r s h i p
National Redress Scheme update In December 2018, the Uniting Church in Australia provided the Federal Government with its application and supporting documentation to participate in the National Redress Scheme (NRS) for people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse. The Church ’ s national council, the Assembly, submitted information from all six Uniting Church Synods to be covered through the UCA ’ s participation in the Scheme to the Department of Social Services in Canberra. The submission followed months of work in cooperation with the Department and Uniting Church bodies across the country. In that time the Church has established a national vehicle for dealing with redress claims for survivors of child sexual abuse. The Department will advise in due course when the UCA will be an operational member of the NRS. President Dr Deidre Palmer has affirmed the Uniting Church ’ s commitment to the National Redress Scheme and acknowledged the pain caused for survivors, who are waiting to access redress through the National Redress Scheme. “For those who might have been concerned about our commitment, please be assured that we are working to make amends and to ensure that our Church has a strong and robust culture of child safety that empowers children and adults in our care. ” “For anyone who was abused in the care of the Uniting Church, in our churches, schools or agencies, I ’ d again like to apologise sincerely. I am truly sorry that we didn ’ t protect and care for you in accordance with our Christian values, ” said Dr Palmer. If you or anyone you know needs support, please contact the following 24-hour support services: Lifeline 13 11 14 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78 If you are a Uniting Church member and would like information about safe church training, please contact Safe Church via email: safechurch@sa.uca.org.au or telephone 08 8236 4268.
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Vale Rev Jeffrey R Garrawurra
A much-loved former National President of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress Rev Jeffrey R Garrawurra passed away after a long period of poor health in Darwin on 14 January 2019. He was 74 years of age. The church has paid tribute to his faithful and dedicated service to God’s mission throughout his extraordinary life. Rev Garrawurra’s full obituary can be read here: https://assembly.uca. org.au/news/item/2958-vale-rev-jeffrey-r-garrawurra
Uniting Church members receive Australia Day Honours Uniting Church members were among 1127 outstanding and inspirational Australians to be recognised in the Australia Day 2019 Honours List. Congratulations to all Honours recipients recognised for their contribution to the wider community. Members that have served the church in South Australia include: • OAM recipient Mr Ronald Colin Sargent from Goolwa received Honours for service to the community through a range of organisations which includes Mylor Uniting Church, Church Elder, Member, Synod Property Committee. • OAM recipient Ms Joan Clare Zanker for service to the community of Mount Baker. Mount Barker Uniting Church. • AM recipient Mr Peter Ernest Bicknell, for significant service to social welfare, and to the community of South Australia. Peter's service to the community includes: UnitingCare Australia: National: Chair, National Committee, 2006-2017. Collaborator with Chinese Christian Church in Australia, for development of leadership and Aged Care services in China, 2010 s. UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide: (formerly Port Adelaide Central Mission): Board Chair, 2008-2016. Chief Executive Officer, 1998-2008.
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easter
Turning Hard Times into Good Times “I’ m creating new heavens and a new earth. All the earlier troubles, chaos, and pain are things of the past, to be forgotten. Look ahead with joy. Anticipate what I’ m creating: I’ll create Jerusalem as sheer joy, create my people as pure delight. ” – Isaiah 65:17-18 We welcome you to join us this Easter and experience the Joy that Easter promises. There is so much happening in today ’ s world, at times it can make us feel despondent and lose hope. Natural disasters such as droughts and bushfires are becoming more frequent. There is war and widespread oppression that has misplaced millions of people, in the process placing immense financial and cultural pressure on all the nations of earth. Easter is a time when we can pause and reflect on the selfless act of Jesus dying for our sins on the cross. With this act, Christ has taken upon himself everything that is bad and dark and turned it into the purest hope of everything that is good. With every selfless act that we show towards others, whether they face adversity or not, we too can bring hope and help them flourish. As members of the Uniting Church in South Australia and as sisters and brothers in Christ, our ministry to others should be one of upliftment, joy and flourishing. This Easter, this is the message that our congregations will reflect and act upon. The Uniting Church SA Easter campaign helps our congregations and faith communities to communicate service and event details, to share in the Easter story, and to raise awareness of the Uniting Church in the wider community. Orders must be placed by Friday 1 March. Postcard design The front of this year ’ s Easter postcard features a cross budding and flourishing with new growth and greenery against a backdrop of dry, cracked soil. This symbolises new life sprouting forth from the desolate – a chance to flourish – which points to Isaiah 65:17-18 and the hope brought by Jesus’ death on the cross The back of the postcard provides space for Easter service details and dates, and a quote from Isaiah 65:17-18. Postcard cost: $82.50 per 1,000 (incl. GST) or $44 (incl. GST) per 500. Costs for orders of fewer than 500 copies can be discussed via email. Poster design The Easter poster features the same design as the front of the postcard, and shares similar design features. It includes space to write service details and dates, and is A3 size. Poster cost: $22 (incl. GST) for 10 (minimum of 10).
Collection The postcards and posters will be available for pick-up from the Uniting Church SA Synod Office (Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide) from Tuesday 8 March. Posters/postcards can be sent via post if required. This will attract an additional cost. PowerPoint slides Free PowerPoint slides with visual elements from the Easter campaign will be available to download online at sa.uca.org.au/ppt-easter Orders must be placed by Friday 1 March using the order form online at sa.uca.org.au/postcards For further information, please contact the Communications team on 08 8236 4237 or email communications@sa.uca.org.au
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