New Times - November 2015

Issue 34, No 10, 2015

The voice of Uniting Church SA

November 2015

Compassion THE ICE PROBLEM

SAYCO 2015

The community

Young people make their mark

responds to ice

p. 24

pp. 10-11

established 1928

Contents

ALDERMAN REDMAN

FEATURES Save the date for KCO

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Ice: a compassionate community response

10-11

Connecting on Country

16-17

SAYCO 2015: Young people make their mark

24

REGULAR PAGES Moderator ’ s comment

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CEO/General Secretary ’ s comment

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Family Lawyers, Mediators and Collaborative Practitioners

We provide quality, cost effective and timely legal advice based on a compassionate understanding of our clients needs Julie Redman, Member of Christ Church Uniting and Accredited Family Law Specialist with 38 years’ experience

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

Letters 19 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

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Next issue: Grace 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. It will also look at the different ways Uniting Church congregations and individuals engage over Christmas.

DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER 2015 Wednesday 11 November

Cover details

Young people joining in the fun at SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out). Read more about this year ’ s exciting, faith-filled event on pages 4 and 24.

editorial

Compassion in action I have always been a compassionate person. It upsets me to see people hurting or suffering particularly when their circumstances are beyond their control. I remember when I was a little girl I would see World Vision ads on television that showed African children standing in the dirt with inflated and bare torsos, flies circling their faces I ’ d ask my Mum questions like, “why do they have big stomachs if they are hungry? ” , “do they have TVs? ” , and “why aren ’ t they wearing many clothes? ” She would respond, “their tummies are malnutritioned and they don ’ t have enough money for clothes and TVs. ” This seemed surreal to me, when I had the blessing of a big house, plenty of food and two wardrobes full of clothes. I would say to Mum, “I ’ m going to fly there one day and help those people. ” In 2013, I was given a unique opportunity to travel to India to learn more about human trafficking. Immediately, my compassionate nature kicked in, particularly upon meeting girls and women who were directly affected by human rights abuse, which had been instigated by people who clearly prioritised greed before need.

I learnt that human traffickers do not care about people. A person in the eyes of a human trafficker is someone that can be used over and over again, to be exploited and used to make money. The people at the mercy of these abusers were living in extreme poverty, with limited options for employment or to raise the money for basic living expenses.

What gave me hope in the midst of all the hurt and despair I encountered in India was the compassion of others. I found hope in the NGOs educating girls in the slums, in the trade union reps advocating for better conditions for textile workers, and the doctor who dedicated her life to helping those living with HIV. Then there are things I find hope in now I ’ ve returned from India. I see it when my daughter says “I want to help the poor people ” ; in the dedication of the My Sister ’ s Scarf committee; in the local minister teaching the Indian woman how to read and write; in the group of girls I recently met in Adelaide who are bringing awareness of the true cost of the clothing we purchase and goods we consume.

Romans 12:21 has also provided me with a sense of peace in the midst of despair while contemplating human trafficking – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ” Compassion requires action. We can feel saddened and hurt by what we experience but if we do not act, how can things change?

I am inspired by those people who are willing to stand up in the face of injustice and offer their gifts and time to make a difference in the lives of others.

Bindy Taylor Return to Contents

Top to bottom: A fundraising event in 2014 was held by Adelaide West Uniting Church to support My Sister ’ s Scarf, an initiative that aims to provide work for women in India to assist them with avoiding human trafficking situations; NGO representatives from Stop the Traffik UK and Tirripur coming together to help girls and women who have suffered human rights abuse in the textile industry; Trade union representatives working to support girls and women in the Tamil Nadu region.

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moderator

A compassionate vision An act of compassion is a profound gift that can lead to healing and transformation – for those who receive it and for the giver. Compassion is about a willingness to be vulnerable, to hear and see the suffering around us, and take action to alleviate that suffering. If we believe that every person is created in the image of God, then it leads to an understanding that compassion lies within each of us. It is a gift that can be nurtured and strengthened as we open ourselves to the voice of the Spirit. The Spirit invites us to hear the cries of those who are in pain and to hear when people ’ s voices have been silenced.

I witnessed a compassionate community at SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out), which was held at Woodcroft College over the October long weekend. Approximately 500 young people and leaders gathered to focus on inviting people into relationship with Jesus, growing in their Christian discipleship, and exploring what it means to be a follower of Jesus in our contemporary Australian context.

One of the SAYCO leaders commented on how moved they were by the care and concern the participants showed towards each other. They were attentive to those who were going through a tough time, prayed with them, and sensitively listened.

I attended a workshop on advocacy and justice at SAYCO. The participants were young people clearly committed to working for justice in our world. They expressed concerns about issues of poverty and human rights, reflecting Jesus ’ compassion for the poor and oppressed.

We have seen acts of compassion on a global scale over the past 15 years as the nations of the world committed to achieving the United Nations ’ Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The date for achieving these goals was set for 2015. The MDGs have been the most successful global movement in history to address extreme poverty, hunger and inequality.

Since their establishment in 2000, there has been significant progress in achieving the MDGs. According to the United Nations ’ MDG Report 2015: “Poverty rates have been more than halved. In 1990 nearly half of the population in the developing world lived on less than $1.25 a day, that proportion dropped to 14 percent in 2015. This translates to over 1 billion people lifted out of extreme poverty. ” In reducing child mortality: “the global under-five mortality rate has declined by more than half. Dropping from 12 million in 1990 to below 6 million in 2015. ” There is still much more work to be done.

This year, in September, the United Nations resolved to build on the work and achievements of the MDGs through the development of 17 new “Sustainable Development Goals ” or “Global Goals ” . These goals include a pledge to end poverty, and the aim is to achieve them over the next 15 years.

The Uniting Church is part of the movement to achieve these

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The Moderator speaking at SAYCO 2015.

international goals – particularly through the relief and development work of UnitingWorld, and our Uniting Church SA International Mission partnerships. As individuals, you are part of this global movement through your support of relief and development work with the Uniting Church and with other non-government agencies.

As Australian citizens, we also participate in addressing poverty and injustice through our government ’ s contribution to international aid.

God ’ s compassion at work in us has us longing for a world of justice and peace, reconciliation and hope, where everyone has enough, where children don ’ t go to bed hungry, where mothers don ’ t die in childbirth, and where every child has an education.

We are motivated by a vision Jesus identifies in the Gospel of Luke – God ’ s vision for our world. In this vision, our world is a place where there is good news for the poor, liberty for captives, freedom for the oppressed, and a Jubilee year when debts are forgiven and there is enough for everyone.

May the Holy Spirit give us courage, wisdom and compassion to live this vision now!

Dr Deidre Palmer

The United Nations ’ Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015) 1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger 2. Achieve universal primary education 3. Promote gender equality and empower women 4. Reduce child mortality 5. Improve maternal health 6. Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases 7. Ensure environmental sustainability 8. Secure a global partnership for development.

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

Stories of compassion One of the cultural norms that I talk about around the Presbytery and Synod is “make it stronger ” . There are many areas in our life as a church that function really well. However, we can always look at how we make things stronger.

A strong suit of the Uniting Church in South Australia is the way in which compassion is shown to people locally, nationally and internationally. I have the immense privilege of visiting a range of congregations throughout the state. Each visit affords me the opportunity to hear what the congregation is doing within their local community. Often what I encounter are testimonies of compassion by local congregations within their community. Acts of compassion have always been a hallmark of who we are as the Uniting Church.

I recently read a book by John Stott in which he spoke of Jesus ’ compassion. In this book, the author suggests that: “Jesus was not afraid to look human need in the face, in all its ugly reality. And what he saw invariably moved him to compassion, and so to compassionate service. Sometimes, he spoke. But his compassion never dissipated itself in words; it found expression in deeds. He saw, he felt, he acted. The movement was from the eye to the heart, and from the heart to the hand. His compassion was always aroused by the sight of need, and it always led to constructive action. ” Compassion is more than a particular action, it is an attitude of the heart that informs the way in which we see other people. There are possibilities for us to exercise compassion everyday if our heart informs our purview of the people around us. In fact, compassion is one of the most essential elements of sharing the nature and truth of Christ. An axiom that has a lot of merit is “people don ’ t care how much you know until they know how much you care. ” This is particularly relevant to Australian culture.

A heart filled with compassion does not seek anything in return, nor does it hold any other agenda beyond benefitting the life of another.

This attitude of compassion speaks loudly to others that they are valued and cared for. It was certainly the case as far as Jesus ’ ministry was concerned. People flocked to Jesus because they knew he cared for all people and would minister to everyone. In many ways this is reflected in our life as a church. The breadth of our acts of compassion are extraordinary as the Uniting Church ministers across all ages, ethnicities and demographics.

The wide-ranging expression of compassion through the Uniting Church provides us with many stories of hope. I would encourage you to share these stories with us. Therefore, I would welcome an email (gensec@sa.uca.org.au) from all those across the Uniting Church in South Australia who have stories of compassion to share.

Collecting these stories will provide us with the impetus to share them in innovative ways throughout the Presbytery and Synod in the hope that we will be strengthened as a church through hearing what Christ is doing.

Thanks for all you do.

Rev Nigel Rogers

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news

Growing community On Sunday 29 November, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress community in Salisbury North will celebrate the opening of their newly upgraded building at a 3pm event. Rev Dean Whittaker shares some of his thoughts about this development.

The Salisbury North Congress congregation have for many years believed God wanted us to upgrade our building to better serve the mission God has called us to – and we recently got a chance to achieve this.

With help from volunteers, builders and architects, and support from the Congress Regional Council and the Uniting Church SA Synod, we were able to design and approve a new building project.

In March this year, we held a “turning of the sod ” service, in which we had the Uniting Church SA Moderator and other guests in attendance. We marked the occasion using three traditionally painted spades.

The first stage of the project is now complete – our church building has a new entrance, functional kitchen and church hall/ meeting area. Included in this new upgrade are internal toilets and a disabled toilet, which will be wonderful! We have a number of folk in wheelchairs or with other serious health or mobility issues – it will be excellent to be able to provide them with appropriate facilities in the future. The second stage of the project, which will be finished in approximately six months, is largely related to landscaping and reworking the back area of the church lot.

Our congregation has seen this project as having a prophetic dimension, at different stages reflecting what we see God doing more broadly in our congregation, in Congress more widely, and in the wider Uniting Church.

When the trenches for the foundations were dug we had members of our congregation write prayers, blessings and verses on ice-cream sticks, which we placed around the foundation trenches. We see the project being founded in the love of God, built in and for the glory of God. We are hoping that through these new developments we can further our Christian outreach activities based at the church.

Our congregation would be delighted to have friends and supporters join us at 3pm on Sunday 29 November as we celebrate the opening of the building and the completion of the first stage of this project.

Top to bottom: Members of the Salisbury North Congress community during the build; “turning the sod ” with traditionally painted spades.

Ecumenical encouragement A successful ecumenical “Dinner of Light ” was held in the Port Pirie Lighthouse Uniting Church hall on Friday 14 August. This event, organised jointly by the Catholic parish of St Mark ’ s and Lighthouse Uniting Church, was an initial receptive ecumenism celebration promoted by the Uniting Church/Roman Catholic Dialogue of South Australia.

Eighty guests gathered at specially prepared tables replete with peace doves, lights of many colours and olive branches. It was an evening of

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sharing delicious food, conversation, music and prayer. The Florence singers and a combined Uniting Church/Catholic Tenor group provided the musical entertainment.

The theme chosen was “I am the Light of the World ” as 2015 is the United Nations International Year of Light.

Frank Miller, a Port Pirie Uniting Church parishioner who is visually impaired, spoke movingly of his personal faith journey in seeking the light.

news

Cultivating hope Bindy Taylor

“Stories of Hope.” This is the theme for UnitingWomen 2016, a conference for Christian women from across Australia. Over the course of the four day event, many women will share their own stories of hope with others – through messages and workshops, and in community space.

One speaker who will delve into hope in a different way is Katheryn Curnow, a Senior Consultant responsible for Leed Consulting ’ s ‘Women Who Leed ’ program.

In this professional role, Katheryn creates the space for people to speak openly about the vision for their life (and/or the life of their organisation), to challenge assumptions, and to ask pointed questions that create a shift in thinking regarding where they want to be and what might be holding them back.

Katheryn has a unique ability to enable women to push through any blockages that may be preventing them moving forward in their life – she will take a similar approach when presenting and facilitating a workshop at UnitingWomen 2016.

Katheryn describes hope as a noun, and as a verb – as something we do, moving collectively towards developing a culture of hope. When we share with one another – as conference attendees will be encouraged to do – we are cultivating a culture of hope. Susceptibility to hope relates to past experiences, environment, and a variety of other personal factors – in some cases,

individuals may need to determine what factors or other circumstances are hindering their opportunities.

In her UnitingWomen 2016 workshop, Katheryn will ask attendees to focus on ways they can tap into stories of hope they have experienced or witnessed. She will encourage women to focus on areas in their lives requiring growth, on their strengths, and on active reflection.

The workshop will look at the process required to find hope in life; this will involve planning and clear goal setting. Those attending will be part of a group coaching session focussing on how to be open to hope.

Continued from page 6 Geraldine Hawkes, the Ecumenical Facilitator of the South Australian Council of Churches, led the gathering graciously and imaginatively into a reflective experience of receptive ecumenism.

The proceeds of the evening will help support an ecumenical seminary in Baguio City in the Philippines.

The event ’ s organising committee, comprising members of the Roman Catholic and Uniting Church denominations, plans to meet again at the beginning of 2016. Another Catholic/Uniting Church Return to Contents

Through Katheryn ’ s workshop, and the many others being offered at UnitingWomen 2016, conference attendees will be encouraged to think about hope in a wide variety of ways and to share stories of hope with one another.

UnitingWomen 2016 is being held from Thursday 28 April to Sunday 1 May, 2016.

The conference will be hosted by Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church (27 Grenfell Street, Kent Town, SA). Workshops on Friday and Saturday afternoon will be held at Prince Alfred College (23 Dequetteville Terrace, Kent Town, SA).

For more information, please visit unitingwomen.org.au

dinner and a more broadly ecumenical event for the season of Pentecost are under consideration.

For a longer version of this article, please visit sa.uca.org.au/across For more information about the South Australian Dialogue of the Roman Catholic and Uniting Church, please visit sadialoguercuc.org

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news

Children joining the fun and faith-building at KCO in 2015.

Save the date for KCO Uniting Church events catering to young people are highly valued by members of the Uniting Church in South Australia. At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Friday 25 September, the Church ’ s commitment to the continuation of KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out) and SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out) was expressed.

These two events are significant parts of the Uniting Church ’ s ministry with children and young people, as they provide space to nurture discipleship, encourage intergenerational ministry and help to share the good news of Christ with the wider Australian community.

At the meeting, Standing Committee approved changes to KCO for 2016 – a change of location to Uniting Venues Adare, a date change to 10-11 September, and the aim to pursue a partnership with Uniting Venues ’ Beyond Limits.

The Uniting Church SA community is invited to engage with the Mission Resourcing team to discuss how KCO and SAYCO might operate in future years. Melissa Neumann will be leading a consultation process over the coming months to hear from congregations and individuals, seeking a sustainable model for these events so that they can continue to serve local churches in coming generations.

As part of the consultation process, forums will be held in November and early December to discuss ideas. The first of these will be held on Thursday 17 November, 9.30-11am in the Presbytery and Synod Office (Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide). Dates and venues for later forums have yet to be determined – keep an eye on UC e-News for more information.

People wishing to engage online can join the Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/1000846816633140 or email uyp@sa.uca.org.au

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The results of the conversations will be communicated across the Uniting Church SA in early 2016. There will be an opportunity for final feedback and responses before a proposal for the 2017 events is finalised in March 2016.

For more information about this year ’ s SAYCO event, please see pages 4 and 24.

Placements News Placements finalised since the October edition of New Times: Linda Forsyth (MOP) to Kadina Wallaroo (0.8) from 1 January 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); Berri Barmera (from 1 February 2016); County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Kalparrin & Murraylands Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (0.5); Keith “One Church ” (Uniting Church and Church of Christ); Lefevre (from 1 January 2016); Lower Murray Linked Congregations with a (0.3) Presbytery Placement component; Malvern and Unley (from 1 March 2016); Tumby Bay & Districts (0.5); Parafield Gardens (from 1 January 2016); Salisbury (from 1 February 2016); Summertown (0.6) (from 1 February 2016); Whyalla.

Profiles not yet available – Ceduna and Districts (0.5) (from 1 November 2015); ConneXions (0.5) (from 1 January 2016); Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations (from January 2016); Marion /Warradale (from 1 November 2016); Parafield Gardens (from 1 January 2016); 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

compassion

The gospel is full of stories about Jesus ’ compassion, demonstrated through both word and action. As followers of Christ, we are called to be compassionate and to share God ’ s love through acts of kindness. This edition explores some of the ways we care for others, and the reasons we are called as Christians to do so.

Australia: a compassionate country?

Catherine Hoffman

He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? – Micah 6:8 Australian aid, previously known as foreign aid, has done an immense amount of good for vulnerable people around the world and for Australia ’ s reputation as a trading partner.

In 2014 alone, aid supplied by Australians: • Helped get 1.3 million more children into school.

• Built more than 9,000 new classrooms.

• Trained over 100,000 teachers.

• Equipped more than 400,000 farmers with better technology.

• Vaccinated more than 2.3 million children.

• Supplied 2.9 million people with access to drinking water.

• Ensured nearly 1 million more mothers had access to a skilled birth attendant.

• Increased access to basic sanitation for over 1 million people.

• Provided critical services for more than 66,000 women who have survived violence.

• Responded to emergencies in 24 countries including Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines and flooding in Solomon Islands.

Australian aid makes a real difference in the lives of many – and it looked set to do so for quite a lot longer.

In 2013, after considerable lobbying by the Uniting Church and its partners, then-Prime Minister Julia Gillard committed to doubling Australian aid by 2018 by committing 0.5% of Australia ’ s Gross National Income (GNI). In December 2014, however, the Abbott government made a significant reduction to the aid budget.

In its Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook, the Abbott government announced savings of $3.7 billion over the next four years due to these cuts. The Australian aid budget has now fallen to $4 billion – that ’ s $1.6 billion less than its peak in 2012-2013. By 2018, Australia is expected to be committing just over 0.2% GNI on aid – well below the United Nations ’ recommendation of 0.7%.

The Uniting Church in South Australia has often demonstrated how highly it values helping others, particularly through international mission projects and support of the United Nations ’ Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015).

“As Christians, we are called to love our neighbour and to care for God ’ s creation – including the humans God regards as most precious, ”

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Graph (above) and 2014 statistics (left) supplied by the Australian Aid campaign.

says Adrian Nippress, Uniting Church SA International Mission Officer and Transforming Justice Coordinator.

“It is our Christian duty to be compassionate, share our wealth and care for the poor. The Bible regularly calls us to be obligated to caring for the needs of the poor from the early chapters in the Old Testament, a constant theme raised by the Prophets and an essential part of the teachings of the Gospel. ” Earlier this year, the Uniting Church SA announced its support of the Australian Aid campaign, which aims to encourage members of the government to increase Australia ’ s aid commitments and to assist in meeting the United Nations ’ new Global Goals.

“They take a three-pronged approach to this, ” says Adrian. “They ’ re calling on the government to restore the Australian aid budget, work with purpose in areas where aid can have the largest impact, and commit to being purposeful and accountable in regards to aid. ” There are many ways that congregations and individuals within the Uniting Church SA community can assist with this campaign – and help to make a real difference in the lives of many. Raising awareness by talking to others is the essential starting point.

More information about how to engage can be found on the Australian Aid campaign website at australianaid.org or by contacting Adrian on anippress@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4203.

As the Uniting Church SA engages further with this campaign, more news will be shared through New Times, UC e-News and online.

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compassion

Ice: the need for compassionate community responses Bindy Taylor & Catherine Hoffman

It ’ s been called an epidemic. A crisis. A scourge. Over the past 12 months, problems associated with the use of the drug ice, also known as crystal meth, have captured the attention of the media, politicians and the nation.

According to new research and news items, the terms used to describe the ice problem across the country have led to an overinflated sense of the problem amongst the wider Australian population.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation shared the results of a survey of 11,000 people which revealed that only one in seven respondents had an accurate idea of the prevalence of ice use. Almost half of the respondents believed that 30 to 100 percent of the population had tried ice during their lifetime – the reality is 7 percent.

But although the prevalence of ice in our communities may not be as large as many Australians believe, it is still a problem facing many across the country.

Ice use among meth/amphetamine users more than doubled between 2010 and 2013 – rising from 22% of meth/amphetamine users to 50%. Smoking ice is also more addictive than the majority of other types of drug use.

“Ice use is everywhere ” Rev Andrew Robinson has been a minister at Mount Gambier Uniting Church for the past two years. In this time, he has seen the effects of ice firsthand.

“Ice use is everywhere and it ’ s not just young people, it ’ s all ages. It ’ s in our congregations and it ’ s showing up right in the middle of families, ” Andrew emphasises.

“There is growing concern in the community – everyone knows everyone in the country so it becomes an issue for everyone.

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“Members of our church community are demonstrating a passion to understand and are educating themselves at local forums. ” In 2015, the local council and police force in Mount Gambier coordinated two forums to educate and inform the community about ice and its use.

Titled “Understanding the Ice Factor ” , these invaluable events drew unexpectedly large crowds. The 528-seat Sir Robert Helpman Theatre quickly reached capacity on each occasion, and some community members had to be turned away.

Sponsored by the Mount Gambier West Rotary Club, the forums also provided information about drug treatment and counselling options for both users and families.

Amongst these options is Rubys, a therapeutic service operated by Uniting Communities and catering to young people aged 12 to 17 who are at risk of homelessness.

Andrew sees Rubys as a sign of hope in the local community.

“Rubys operates out of a house with trained counsellors and helps kids who might be struggling with parents with addictions or vice-versa, ” says Andrew. “It brings families together to talk about issues. ” Operating in Adelaide since 1983, Rubys first established a base in Mount Gambier in 2010. Across four South Australian locations Rubys follows a unique model to reintegrate young people into their homes through counselling and temporary accommodation.

Cheryl Hillier, the Services Manager of Therapeutic Youth Services with Uniting Communities, is aware of the ways poverty, family tensions and homelessness can impact on drug use. This can be exacerbated in rural and regional communities where counselling services are often less accessible.

“Drugs continue to be an issue in rural areas as we see families struggling with things such as unemployment and affordability of housing, as well as intergenerational issues, which are often linked with drug and alcohol problems, ” Cheryl says.

Access to counselling services in these communities is largely a funding issue. The future of services like Rubys is dependent on how much funding continues to be supplied by the state and federal government.

Many rural and regional communities already lack services to deal with issues like ice – including South Australia ’ s MidNorth region.

Rev Trevor Faggotter is the minister at Clare Uniting Church, and is concerned about the lack of education and support services for the many suffering from ice addiction.

“Recently there was a parenting seminar at the school, but there was no mention of ice or the issues it is causing in the community, ” Trevor says worriedly.

He approached the local council about hosting a forum similar to ones held in Mount Gambier, but was told the federal funding that supports the forums had run out for this year.

“A community forum would help us, ” he says. “But it costs $20,000 to stage, and no one can fund that at the moment. ” Trevor has put a lot of thought into how the event could help others, and knows someone willing to share her story with a wider audience.

“She has overcome ice addiction and found faith by entering the Teen Challenge program.

To be in the program she needs to share her testimony, which she can do to help others. ” Trevor ’ s passionate response stems from the heartache he has witnessed throughout his local community.

“Ice is a dark and helpless situation for

compassion

families in Clare, ” he says. “Local police are frustrated, no one knows what to do. The first thing we need to do is talk about it, but there are challenges around awareness. ” Moving forward In April 2015, former Prime Minister Tony Abbott established the National Ice Taskforce to report on the use and impacts of the drug on the Australian community. An interim report was presented in July, and the taskforce delivered its final 200-page report to the new Prime Minister in mid-October.

At the time of writing this article, the full report from the taskforce has not yet been made public. However, news sources have released some of the recommendations and insights it included. Chief amongst these is a recommendation to focus less on policing and more on treatment, education and community support programs.

There are a number of specific recommendations made within the report in relation to education and prevention – including a recommendation that additional funding be made to communities to develop local responses. It also recommends expanding treatment services, particularly community support services and day clinics, for those addicted to ice.

Emphasis was also placed on the role of addicts ’ families and the need to provide support as they try to break their addiction.

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If the government chooses to put the taskforce ’ s recommendations into action, services to support those affected by ice use could be introduced or expanded to meet the current needs of communities like those in Mount Gambier and Clare..

The call of the church “…for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me. ” – Matthew 25:35-36.

As Christians, we are called to respond to the hardship of others with compassion.

Uniting Church congregations can play a role in the prevention and treatment of drug use in their communities.

Research in the United States has shown that religious involvement is the strongest protective factor in preventing initial substance use amongst children and adolescents.

Churches and families have an opportunity to educate young people about issues like ice in a compassionate and honest manner as part of their faith development.

Engaging with treatment and support services is more difficult than educating young people about the issue – especially in places where those services are minimal or unavailable.

But as Andrew said, “Ice use is everywhere. ”

It is affecting people in Uniting Church congregations – its members, their family members or friends.

Ways the church can engage will depend on what is available in the local context. There may be a community forum to attend or to support in another capacity; local support or community services may have volunteer opportunities or have other needs that could be met through donations; support could be offered on a more personal basis to those who have been personally affected by ice use or addiction.

The ice problem is one our communities will be facing for some time, even as the government takes action on the issue. It is worth beginning to think about ways you can respond to this situation with compassion and care.

Uniting Communities ’ Therapeutic Youth Services provides family counselling and the Rubys program across metropolitan Adelaide and Mount Gambier. Anyone interested in finding out more or accessing support should contact 8202 5060 during business hours.

Trained counsellors respond to each contact to discuss individual situations as well as short or long term support.

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For more than 150 years UCWB has been delivering life-changing services to South Australians in need. We are a charitable ‘for purpose’ organisation that relies on Government funding and public donations to continue to provide these critical services.

compassion

Left: Young people sitting outside St Andrew ’ s By the Sea Uniting Church which hosts the 50-year-old Friendship Café.

Serving up compassion for 50 years Glenelg ’ s Friendship Café is celebrating 50 years of hospitality and care this month. Judy Clayton, former coordinator of the café, shares some of the history and legacy of this unique outreach.

The first iteration of the Friendship Café was established in November 1965. A project largely organised by Rev Michael Sawyer and women from Glenelg Congregational Church, it started as a simple café space in the church ’ s hall, and was open one day a week.

The café was appreciated by locals, and a year later, representatives from Glenelg Congregational Church, Trinity Methodist Church, Glenelg Church of Christ and Glengowrie Methodist Church gathered together to discuss future plans for the café.

With the aim of focussing on service and friendship, the team decided to name this outreach the Glenelg Churches Friendship Café.

The decision was also made to open the café twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting in February 1967.

Each of the churches involved in this decision contributed volunteers to assist with the café; in later years, the Glenelg Anglican Parish and St Leonard ’ s Methodist Church also came on board.

A number of changes have taken place in the years since the establishment of the café. These include a move from the back room to the hall, an upgrade to the kitchen, and minor operational changes.

Today, the café operates from February to November, 11am-1pm, and sources support from St Andrew ’ s by the Sea Uniting Church, volunteers from the church ’ s op shop, and members of the local community who wish to volunteer their help. These volunteers meet before the opening of the café to prepare ingredients for sandwiches, set up tables, and prepare for the day.

The Friendship Café offers a simple menu of freshly made sandwiches (fresh or toasted), homemade scones, apple pie and fruit salad; tea, coffee and orange juice are also available. During the winter months (May – September) there is also a soup option. Any profit made, after expenses, is given to UnitingCare Glenelg to assist Community Aid in their outreach.

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Over the years, many people have become regular customers, and the volunteers like to take the time for a chat to make the customers feel welcome. Friendships have often been formed in this way, and the volunteers have also formed close bonds with one another – the sometimes noisy chatter and laughter in the kitchen are testimony to that!

As well as friendship and hospitality, the café has a focus on faith. Before starting each session, volunteers share the Friendship Café Prayer:

Lord God, you feed us with the bread of life;

That we are able to give to others,

For the good friendship and opportunity of service

In the Friendship Café.

As you satisfy the needs of our bodies

So satisfy the longings of our hearts

And fulfil in us your promise that

Those who come to you shall hunger and thirst no more.

In April 2012, another dimension was added to the café. Suggested by the then newly arrived Rev Adam Tretheway, a prayer table was set up for customers to use. Adam has also been committed to providing an ear for patrons wishing to talk about any issues over their meal. This move has been appreciated by patrons, customers and volunteers alike.

In December this year, the Friendship Café will have served the community for 50 years. It would not have been possible to achieve this milestone without the care and compassion of the many volunteers who have contributed their time and skills to this outreach. Without them the café could not operate.

Volunteers and members of the St Andrew ’ s by the Sea Uniting Church congregation hope that the Friendship Café will continue to offer hospitality and care to the local community in future.

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Christmas service times

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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.

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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.).

www.acd.edu.au

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

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news

Calling interested congregations!

Neryl McCallum

The Centre for Music Liturgy and the Arts (CMLA) is inviting congregations to apply for their 2016 Musician in Residence program with Professor Michael Hawn. The following Q&A provides more information about Michael and the program to help congregations discern whether it is something their community would like to engage with.

What is a Musician in Residence Program?

It can be many things, but at its most basic it is a week (from Sunday to Sunday) in which a musician comes into your community to be a part of it, working for and with you on a project of your choice.

Who is Michael Hawn?

Michael is a wonderfully generous teacher and musician who has had a lifetime of thinking about, writing and engaging in church and sacred music as University Distinguished Professor of Church Music and Director of the Sacred Music Program at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Texas University, USA. He is well known throughout the United States in the areas of children ’ s choirs and congregational song and worship, and he is a frequent contributor to church music periodicals in the areas of church music education and hymnology. As a student of global music and cross-cultural worship, Michael has travelled extensively, most recently to Russia and China. His latest book is New Songs of Celebration Render: Congregational Song in the Twenty-First Century (GIA Publications, Inc., 2013).

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Professor Michael Hawn will be the CMLA Musician in Residence in 2016.

What kind of project can it be?

That is entirely up to you and your creativity.

Definitely use Michael to enhance and encourage your church music, but CMLA would suggest that this can be an opportunity to engage with and serve your broader community. For instance, if you know that there are choirs that rehearse in your area, ask them if they would like to have a teaching or singing session with Michael; ask your local music teachers if they would like to organise a special class; ask whether the Christian Pastoral Support Worker at your local school would like to have a lunchtime music experience session. This could be an opportunity to further your ecumenical relationships.

Who can apply?

Any Uniting Church congregation is welcome to apply. Rural, remote and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) congregations are encouraged to apply.

Is there a cost?

Yes, congregations are asked to contribute to a living wage for Michael (about $200).

However, if this is a serious impediment for your community please contact CMLA and talk to the coordinator about potential options.

How do you apply?

Simply fill in the application form available on the CMLA website at cmla.org.au/pdf/ Hawn2016Brochure.pdf Applications close at the end of November 2015.

The Centre for Music Liturgy and the Arts is a ministry centre of Mission resourcing within the Uniting Church in South Australia. CMLA seeks to encourage and develop music and arts that support the breadth and depth of worship and community life in a contemporary, multicultural and inclusive church.

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The Dusty Feet Mob share a dance for volunteers and staff after a day of hard work on the community garden.

Connecting on Country Caryn Rogers

The Flinders Ranges is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of Australian landscape.

Having captured the attention of countless hikers, travellers and photographers, those who still hold the strongest affinity with the Ranges are the traditional owners, the Adnyamathanha people. This is the people born onto this harsh yet magnificent landscape.

As Rev Denise Champion jokes, the Adnymathanha are the original rock group, with Adnya meaning “rock ” and Mathanha meaning “people ” in the native tongue.

But, like many Aboriginal elders, Aunty Denise and her sister Pauline McKenzie, are concerned about the future of their young people and the future of their ancient culture.

This concern is not empty. Rituals and languages of Aboriginal nations are finding it difficult to survive and find a voice in many areas of Australia – even on country. Young Indigenous Australians are struggling to find their place and sense of identity. This plays out with often tragic effects, like poor life expectancy, mental health issues and suicide.

“We want this to be a place of healing, ” said

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Aunty Pauline. “Not just for Adnyamathanha people but for all Aboriginal people. ” “This place ” which Aunty Pauline refers to is the Hawker Cultural Hub that, after laying in wait for a number of years, is finally beginning its renewal.

The Hub is a small plot of land, just off the Outback Highway on Elder Terrace in Hawker, bought a number of years ago by a group called the United Yuras. This group was made up of representatives from a number of different Aboriginal people groups. It was long hoped that this house and its surrounding land could be a meeting place for Aboriginal people to remember, to refresh and to renew their Aboriginal heritages.

Though the members of that original group have passed on, the land has remained as a potential site for “something ” . Over time, it became cluttered with junk and rubbish. In 2014, the dream to “do something ” with this property was renewed when Angela Beattie from Artesian Foundation connected with local elders, Aunties Denise and Pauline, and asked what their hopes were and how those could be supported.

So, while many were resting over the October long weekend, a group of volunteers and staff from Artesian Foundation headed out to Hawker to begin a week-long adventure, culminating in the building of a garden on the site of the Hub. The Artesian Foundation is a not-forprofit initiative that connects corporates with causes through event-based experiences.

They saw that there was a need in this region and, through building relationships along the way, discovered the vision of the Hub and the youth-led grassroots initiatives of Ninnal Seed and Dusty Feet Mob, both located in nearby Port Augusta.

Dusty Feet Mob is an indigenous dance troupe which engages young people in storytelling through dance. It is run by Wanita Calyun and has been so popular that children are now on a waiting list to join.

Ninnal Seed is an initiative run by Rhanee Lester, her husband John Tsetakos, and Jesse Size. It helps kids engage with their Aboriginality through sand play, drum beats, quality time, conversations and more.

For the past 12 months there have been

magazine

Members of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation constructing a garden bed for the benefit of the Hawker community.

many phone calls and meetings regarding this 5-9 October event. There was much to do at the Hub site – and much to clear.

Local Uniting Church and Frontier Services leader, Pastor Gary Ferguson called on his support networks and secured necessary support from Scots Church Adelaide – in the shape of a skip bin. There could have been no success without this unglamorous donation as the site was difficult to access and impossible to plant only two months ago.

Partnering with Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation meant that the Artesian team could rely on experts in the field to create a garden that would thrive in the challenging soil of Hawker. This organisation creates regionally appropriate gardens in consultation with, and with the hands-on support of, the local community.

Speaking early on with the Aunties, it was easy to see the passion that there was for regional plants – for bush tucker and bush medicine. They wanted to build a garden that celebrated their heritage, that would thrive in those conditions, and would also contain other vegetables that the Hawker community

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rarely saw in their home town – fresh herbs, greens and sun-ripened tomatoes.

After spending the day on Tuesday hearing the vision of hope for the region, corporates from businesses across Adelaide were driven to the site of the Hub and, after seeing the site map, looked around and asked, “what can we do? ” Though accustomed to sitting at desks in temperature-regulated offices, these corporates made light work of the final clearing that needed to be done of the property and helped set up for the garden build the following day.

With support from families involved with Dusty Feet Mob and Ninnal Seed, as well as a fresh intake of corporate guests, the garden was built and the local community drawn together with the vision of watching it grow and filling it with their new stories, new recipes and new memories.

The Hawker Cultural Hub will continue to grow from here, with visions of an art gallery and a shop to sell local artifacts and foods, as well as a space for the land and culture to come alive through story, song and scent.

You are welcome to drop by next time you

are driving out to the Flinders Ranges – Aunty Pauline and others might just be there to greet you.

Head online to find out more about each of the organisations involved in this project: Artesian Foundation: artesianfoundation. com.au SAKGF: kitchengardenfoundation.org.au Ninnal Seed: vimeo.com/128759261 Dusty Feet Mob: dropbox.com/s/ nso27lfndcwh8hf/Dusty%20Feet%20Promo. mp4

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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.

letters to the editor

Editor ’ s note: As usual, the only changes made to the letters have been stylistic (for example, italicising New Times) or to correct spelling errors.

A fond farewell

On Sunday 1 November Rev Ian Kitto will conduct his last service at Adare Uniting Church. He, like many of his present congregation, has reached the wonderful stage of retirement.

Ian moves into this era of his life with wife Karen, no doubt with mixed emotions, like all of us who entered that arena.

Ian first entered the ministry in 1987 and ministered to Cleve, Port Broughton, Waikerie and Loxton congregations before coming to Adare.

To farewell Ian and Karen and acknowledge their service to the people of this Victor Harbor, a luncheon will be held following the 9.30am service. Ian and Karen have been at Adare for nine years and have over that time contributed invaluably to the church and wider community.

During his time, Ian, amongst other ministries, has stimulated the growth of home groups, encouraged young people to extend and grow their skill, and has been both an encourager and challenger. He has been a familiar figure riding his bike along the bike path as a member of the Adare bike crew or joining the walkers on the weekly walk to Granite Island. Ian has been a member of the church band, The Adarables, which would see him jumping up from guitar playing to receive the offering. He has been invaluable as the security guy sleeping over for the garage sale.

Karen has been a prime mover with the Sit ’ n ’ Stich group at Adare spending countless hours making wonderful quilts to be given to Frontier Services and many other needy causes.

As they move to spend more time with their children and eight grandchildren and hopefully find more time for themselves we wish them much joy and many blessings.

On behalf of the Adare Congregation and Church Council we want to publicly acknowledge their contributions and commitment to Adare and Victor Harbor and thank them for their faithful service.

Adare Uniting Church Council, Victor Harbor

Marriage equality?

I am enquiring about the lecture ad in the New Times magazine (October 2015) – marriage equality and the church... Is this ad/lecture designed to suggest same sex marriage is acceptable in the eyes of our Lord? Same sex marriage violates Gods principles! People involved in same sex relationships deliberately choose to live outside of God ’ s design and principles. Believing that this is ok demonstrates a loss of sensitivity to God. Deliberately ignoring the truth separates man kind from God completely. Same sex marriage will destruct society.

Counterfeit love is indulgent, selfish, deceitful and always ends up in sexual immortality.

R. Anderson, Balaklava Return to Contents

Domestic violence and men

Your article, “Love is... ” (New Times, October 2015) rightly focusses attention on the nature of domestic violence and the need for all to recognise the role they should play in offering support to victims and eliminating violence from our relationships with one another. As one who has worked with men over many years and supported programs to eliminate violence I continue to find that the majority of the literature and programs available merely focus on women and children and assisting them to escape from violent situations. Shame and blame is often all that is offered for men. Put them away and punish them.

Certainly something that may be justified in many cases but an approach that does little to address the real cause of domestic violence or to acknowledge that all relationships involve two people and in many cases both contribute to the breakdown of that relationship. Programs for men are sadly lacking and the literature available only alienates them and does nothing to assist them to appreciate what is required to have a loving, caring relationship. If we are serious about our claim that “we are called to loving, non violent relationships ” then we will offer men much more assistance to handle anger and develop loving relationships.

B. Harris, Encounter Bay

Encouraging expressions

The Uniting Church in recent times has had an interest in “fresh expression of church ” and looking at alternative ways of doing or being church. I would like to draw attention to two young people who are doing exactly that of their own volition and have developed ways of connecting young people to the church. You may think they are not new ways and we ’ ve “done them before, ” but their ministries aim to revitalise old approaches that previously were the backbone of church growth.

Micah Prior, a young 22-year-old from Burnside City Church realised that youth often fail to transition into young adults within the church.

As a result they lack any real opportunity to engage in relevant faith.

He set up a mentoring sports team based in “basketball, friendship and faith ” which involves young people from all over Adelaide.

Christie Bridge runs a youth group at Kapunda. The need for meaningful experiences for youth in the area is evident when on the first night 150 kids attended and now they average 60 regularly. The event comprises of fun activities followed by a short devotional.

It is encouraging to see a renewed and fresh emphasis on practical ways of assisting youth to connect with faith.

E. Prior, Dernancourt Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or PO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.

Be topical, be brief, be timely.

Letters over 150 words will be edited; responses to previous letters /articles will be considered within two months of the original item ’ s publication only.

All letters are published at the editorial team ’ s discretion.

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October Presbytery and Synod meeting The October meeting of the Uniting Church SA Presbytery and Synod was held from Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 October at Adelaide West Uniting Church. Due to print deadlines, we have been unable to include coverage of the meeting in this edition.

Summaries of the topics discussed and decisions made at the meeting will be featured in the December edition of New Times.

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PASTORAL RELATIONS & MISSION PLANNING Uniting Church in Australia Presbytery and Synod of South Australia

Applications are invited from enthusiastic, exceptionally gifted and highly motivated members of the Uniting Church, either ordained or laypersons, to this executive leadership position within the Church.

The task embraces the functions of: •

leading and managing all matters relating to the Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning Ministry Centre, including placements and pastoral relations

•

strategic leadership of the Pastoral Relations & Mission Planning (PR&MP) Team

The successful applicant will have: •

exceptional leadership, pastoral and administrative skills that concentrate on delivering quality service provision that will energise a complex organisation

classifieds

•

the capacity to think strategically and manage multiple complex issues at the same time

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•

a passion to see the Uniting Church thrive

•

disciplined thinking and a capacity to manage change combined with a pastoral heart

•

the ability to implement policy decisions, coupled with compassion

p o s i t i o n s va c a n t . s a . u c a . o r g . a u 20

This is an exciting opportunity for a church that God is regenerating.

A full information pack and Position Description is available from Tracey Bost, Executive Assistant to the CEO/General Secretary, 82364232 or tbost@sa.uca.org.au Applications close 4 pm Friday 20 November 2015.

Please forward applications to: Rev Nigel Rogers, CEO/General Secretary, GPO Box 2145, Adelaide SA 5001 or gensec@sa.uca.org.au

General Secretary (CEO Level Role)

Uniting Church in Australia: Synod of Western Australia This position has at its core, providing leadership in the development of the Synod’s capacity for mission and ministry. The successful applicant will have a deep knowledge of the Uniting Church and the ability to lead through times of change with a pastoral approach. The position requires a person of vision, prayer, managerial skills and empowering leadership.

To be considered for this position you must be a member of the Uniting Church and available to commence in 2016. A position description and information package is available.

Please email your expression of interest to: Maureen Bourke Administrative Assistant to the Selection Committee Uniting Church in Australia (WA Synod) Email: maureen.bourke@wa.uca.org.au Phone: 08 9260 9833

diary FINDING LIGHT IN DARK PLACES. This event is focussed on helping young adults with depression, and equipping people who pastorally care for young adults who struggle with depression. It will be held at Westbourne Park Uniting Church (27 Sussex Terrace, Hawthorn) on Saturday 7 November, 9.30am to 3.30pm. It includes three sessions, each with a different speaker and focus – scriptural and theological foundations with Rev Dr Mark Worthing, an overview of psychological depressive and anxiety conditions with provisional psychologist Amber Lin, and practical pastoral tips for carers with Danica Patselis. Cost is $20, and includes a light lunch.

RSVP essential by Monday 2 November by email at office@wpuc.org.au or phone on 8271 7066.

50 YEARS ORDINATION SERVICE. Join us for the 50 years of Ordination Thanksgiving Service, from 3pm, Sunday 8 November at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church (corner Grenfell Street and Fullarton Road, Kent Town). Special guest Rev Professor Andrew Dutney will speak. For more information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au A THIN PLACE. Everyone who enjoys (or wants to try) contemplative worship is invited to A Thin Place at The Corner Uniting Church (corner Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) on Sunday 8 November at 5.30pm. All are welcome to an hour of quiet reflection on John ’ s gospel at several prayer stations, and including a multi-screen audio visual presentation of art, photography and scripture. For more information, please visit thecorner.org.au COMMUNITY DAY. On Saturday 14 November the Australian Christian Meditation Community SA will be holding a Community Day at St Ignatius Church Hall (Queen Street, Norwood) from 11am to 3.30pm. Guest speaker Kathryn Houston (Director of Liaison with National Coordinators WCCM) will speak on the topic of “The Peaceful Life: Do not be anxious about your life, for life is more than food, clothes and other material things ” . Please bring lunch for sharing. Suggested donation $15. Enquiries to Dianne on 0413 633 905.

PRIDE MARCH. Saturday 14 November, leaving from Victoria Square in Adelaide at 6.30pm. You are invited to gather with Unity & Friends members to march in support of LGBTIQ friends as they struggle for equal rights in the community. Gather with us at 6pm. A banner will clearly identify us. For further information, please contact John Maddern on 8353 5226.

KENT TOWN AND METHODISM EVENT. All are welcome to attend the talk “Kent Town Church – Its significance in South Australian Methodism ” with Dr David Hilliard. Sunday 15 November, 2.30pm at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church (corner Grenfell Street and Fullarton Road, Kent Town). For more information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au BOOK LAUNCH AND FORUM. On Friday 20 November at 7.15pm, the Effective Living Centre (26 King William Road, Wayville) will host a book launch and forum with Dr Val Webb, author of Testing Tradition and Liberating Theology. Val is an Australian theologian who holds graduate degrees in science and a PhD in theology. Entry is $20 adult, $15 concession or $12 for Friends of the Effective Living Centre. Bookings are essential on 8271 0329 or at effectiveliving.org/pcnetsa GARAGE SALE. Come grab a bargain, and enjoy a sausage and cold drink or cuppa and scones at The Corner Garage Sale. On Saturday 21 November, The Corner Uniting Church (corner Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) will come alive from 9am-1pm with lots of wonderful stalls, including cakes, plants, clothes, books, Christmas gifts and more. Fun for the whole family! For more information, please visit thecorner.org.au NOVEMBER MARKET. Saturday 21 November, 9am to 2pm at Temple Centre, Henley Fulham Uniting Church (corner Durham Street and Military Road, Henley Beach). Come to this market for yummy homemade produce, beautiful craft items, sausage sizzle, morning tea, pre-loved clothes and white elephant stall. Pick up a book from our secondhand book stall, buy some beautiful Christmas cards, and keep the children amused with the face painting, lucky dip and other children ’ s activities.

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CHRISTMAS MUSIC EVENT. On Sunday 22 November at 3pm Illumina Voices will present a program of wonderful Christmas music entitled “Rejoice! ” at the beautiful and historic Scots Church Adelaide (corner North Terrace and Pulteney Street). Directed by Deborah Munro, with guest artists Peter Combe, Peri Kowal (harp) and Tammy Papps (violin), the program includes something for everyone. Tickets $25 Adult, $20 Concession at trybooking.com/IQZQ or at the door. Enquiries to Sue on 0403 911 130. For more information about Illumina Voices, please visit illumina.org.au CAROLS IN THE BUSH. In the 32 years since its inception, Rockleigh Uniting Church ’ s Carols in the Bush has become a popular annual event.

This year the event will be held from 6pm on Sunday 22 November at Rockleigh Uniting Church (410 Rockleigh Road, Rockleigh). It will feature performances by the SA Police Band and local artists. A sausage sizzle will also be held from 4.45pm-5.45pm. Proceeds to go to the Rockleigh CFS Support Group. A collection will be taken and all donations to go to the Guide Dogs. The evening will be followed with a country supper. All are welcome to come and herald the Christmas season. For more information, please contact Barbara on 8538 7060.

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL. Athelstone Uniting Church invites participation in their fifth Christmas Tree Festival. Present a themed Christmas tree and/or come along to enjoy this creative and fun event.

Entry by donation. Thursday 26 (by appointment), Friday 27 (10am-9pm with Kids Club and BBQ at 6pm), Saturday 28 (10am-4pm), and Sunday 29 November (9am-4pm with morning service at 9.30am). Held at the church, 33 Fox Street, Athelstone (just off Gorge Road and opposite the Athelstone Shopping Centre). Children ’ s activities and Devonshire tea available daily.

For more information, please contact the church office on 8336 9905 or office@athelstonechurch.org.au STRAWBERRY FAIR. It is almost time for the annual Vines Uniting Church Strawberry Fair! Held at the church (corner of Reynell Road and Rolton Avenue, Woodcroft) from 5.30pm until dark on Friday 27 November. This has been a traditional community event in the Happy Valley (and now Woodcroft) district for well over 100 years. Along with the usual food, amusement, crafts, white elephant, books and produce stalls you ’ d expect to find at a Christmas fair, Santa will be making his customary appearance for the children. A great evening for all the family! Please note: all stalls have been allocated.

STILLPOINT ADVENT QUIET DAY. “Dreams and Visions ” written by Lynona Hawkins can be purchased for use in your own time and place, or you can come to Stillpoint Spirituality Centre on Friday 27 November or Monday 30 November (for either a half or full day). For more details, visit Stillpoint (5 Burnell Drive, Belair), contact them by phone on 8178 0048 or visit the website at stillpointsa.org.au TWILIGHT RETREAT. On Tuesday 1 December the Australian Christian Meditation Community SA will be holding their annual Advent Twilight Retreat, “Light in the Darkness ” , at St Columba ’ s Church Hall (3 Rosevear Street, Hawthorn). From 6pm-8pm with tea, coffee and book stall available from 5.30pm. Admission is free. Enquiries to Dianne on 0413 633 905.

IGNITE ADELAIDE. This exciting young adults ’ conference will be held at Westbourne Park Uniting Church (corner Sussex Terrace and Monmouth Road, Hawthorn) on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 December. The event will feature an address by Rev Tim Hein on “The cost of being a disciple. ” It will also include worship, seminars, panel discussions, community time and more. Cost is $30, with an additional $25 for food. Registrations close Friday 20 November; places are limited. For more information, please contact Charlie Tatera on 0451, 038 058 or ignite@wpuc.org.au or visit igniteadelaide.org.au To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary ’ in the subject line.

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Why I feel called to protest Rev John Brentnall Left to right: An aerial view of the Leard State Forest and existing Boggabri mine; protesting the Maules Creek Mine in March 2014. Photos courtesy of Leard State Forest - flickr.com/leardstateforest

For three years, until March this year, I was the Uniting Church minister working in Gunnedah, Quirindi and Werris Creek in northwestern New South Wales. During this time, I have seen the impact of drought and witnessed the destruction of parts of Leard State Forest.

The latter came as the result of mining developments within the forest, including the Whitehaven Coal mine. Located near Gunnedah, the Whitehaven Maules Creek mine has been operating commercially since July 2015 and will be one of the largest open cut coal mines in Australia.

Mining has been opposed by environmental groups and farmers, who are concerned about the ecological impacts of coal mining in the area, particularly in the case of the new Whitehaven mine. I have taken part in three protests against this mine ’ s development. On one occasion I was even arrested. It is a cause I believe in strongly, knowing the local and global impact of coal mining, and feeling it is my Christian responsibility to care for the environment.

The new mine development and current mine expansion involve the destruction of approximately 70% of Leard State Forest – tearing down the last remnant of White Box-Gum woodland, and destroying the habitat of nearly 500 species of flora and fauna, including approximately 28 endangered species.

In addition, the mines potentially impact on local agriculture and water supply. Thousands of tonnes of toxic dust created by coal mine activity will be blown over the surrounding countryside, contaminating farmland and homes alike. It threatens to destroy or contaminate underground aquifers, and the water used by the mines will lower the water table by two to seven metres. The mine is also drawing huge amounts of water from the Namoi River.

On the global environmental level, I am opposed to the development of any new coal mines because of the contribution that burning fossil fuels makes to global warming and climate change.

Another reason for my support is the affect the mines have on

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local Indigenous communities. The Whitehaven mine involves the destruction of scores of Indigenous sacred sites. Local Gomeroi elders claim that 10 of 11 sites have already been bulldozed by Whitehaven, and they have been denied access to land over which they have a native title claim in order to conduct traditional ceremonies.

Underlying my stance is my Christian faith. I believe that all Christians are called to be environmentalists – I base this on precepts from the Hebrew and Christian scriptures.

Passages in Genesis highlight the role of humans within nature, and call Christians to be gardeners and tillers of the land, tasked with keeping it fertile and productive. Later verses emphasise this.

However, I ’ d like to bring your attention to a commandment that is not often drawn upon as a directive to care for the environment, but is one that I have found particularly applicable – “Love your neighbour as yourself. ” Like many other Christians, I interpret the word “neighbour ” to include not just the people who live next door, but all of humanity.

Not just the ones who are alive now, but the ones in the generations to follow. I also include all living creatures, and the environments in which they live, including the oceans and the forests.

By protesting about what is happening to Leard State Forest, I believe I am loving my neighbours.

Coal mining in this area is a social justice issue, as well as an ecological one. It is a matter of justice for my neighbours – the people of Kiribati and Tuvalu who are affected by climate change, the farmers and residents of Maules Creek, the Indigenous communities affected by the developments, and all creatures and ecological communities living in Leard State Forest.

As a Christian minister, a father and grandfather, I have a responsibility to “do my bit ” to ensure that the environment future generations have to live in is bearable and sustainable.

The Uniting Church in Australia has taken its role as an agent of

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Klaxons sound at War Room ’ s success

care for creation very seriously. At the June 2015 meeting of the Uniting Church SA Presbytery and Synod, the gathered members made the decision to divest the Uniting Church SA investment portfolio from companies involved in the extraction or exploration of thermal coal. The decision was also made to seek ways to further decarbonise the Church ’ s investment portfolio, and committed to reducing its carbon footprint.

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

Karen Abercrombie (top left) and Priscilla C Shirer in War Room.

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Film: War Room Director: Alex Kendrick War Room is terrible. There ’ s no getting around it. It ’ s a turgid, artless film with an unusually simplistic approach to prayer and a staggeringly problematic slant on abusive relationships.

It ’ s also wildly popular.

War Room is the latest in a string of films by the Kendrick brothers, who have a talent for making movies panned by critics but lauded

by Christian audiences. True to form, churches have turned out in droves to see this faith-based flick, rocketing War Room to a surprise US opening weekend, coming second only to the critically-acclaimed Straight Outta Compton.

Elizabeth Jordan (Priscilla C Shirer) is caught in what can only be described as an abusive marriage. Her husband Tony (TC Stallings) leers at other women in front of her, stops her accessing their shared bank account, goes through her phone and cruelly undermines her in front of their daughter. When she complains to her workmates, they all laugh in resignation about how difficult it is for a modern woman to submit to her husband.

When Elizabeth ’ s mentor Miss Clara (Karen Abercrombie) hears about it, she tells Elizabeth her lukewarm faith is to blame for her situation. Elizabeth has allowed the devil to enter her home and marriage. Instead of seeking couples counselling or directly telling Tony there is a problem, Miss Clara tells Elizabeth to shut herself in her walk-in wardrobe and pray about it. Elizabeth never stands up for herself again.

Spoiler alert: The changes to Elizabeth ’ s life are, literally, miraculous.

Tony becomes a faithful and attentive husband with such speed the film is barely halfway finished. It then drags on for another hour.

There ’ s nothing wrong with making a movie about prayer, and movies with explicitly Christian characters (like The Blind Side) don ’ t have to be bad. While its focus on making Christians serious about their prayer lives is very admirable, the tin ear it lends to those who have experienced domestic violence combined with the uncritical endorsement of the film from pulpits across the country is deeply concerning.

What is the message conveyed by churches directly endorsing this movie? Tapping into church networks has certainly been profitable.

From a meagre budget of $3 million, War Room has made over $40 million in the United States alone. Its undeniable commercial success with Christian audiences indicates there ’ s a disparity between what churches think War Room is saying, and the message it is broadcasting to the world.

As a representation of Christian life to mainstream society, we deserve much better than this.

Rohan Salmond This review was first published in Journey magazine.

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magazine

Campers engaging in worship and games at SAYCO 2015.

Young people make their mark Over the October long weekend, 23 groups of young people from over 30 Uniting Church congregations and faith communities across the state joined together at Woodcroft College for SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out) 2015.

With workshops and worship, games and food, there was plenty to keep the high school-aged attendees engaged with the 2015 theme, “Make Your Mark. ” Many campers and group leaders identified speaker Dave Shepherd as the camp ’ s real highlight. A father, husband, teacher, mentor and pastor, Dave brought a wealth of youth ministry experience to his SAYCO role.

His passion for encouraging the next generation of leaders and rallying young people to hear the call of God in their lives was clearly spelt out in his messages.

“The best things were the speaker and his messages. They were really relevant, ” said one

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15-year-old camper.

“David is an amazing speaker – truly inspirational! ” added another, aged 16.

Surrounding Dave ’ s messages were energetic worship sessions and prayer times.

“Many of the youth [were] praying for each other with a strong connection to feeling God ’ s Spirit, ” one leader identified.

Small group times were also appreciated as opportunities for young people and leaders to reflect on Dave ’ s messages and respond together.

“In the small group, each person made small goals to further God ’ s kingdom, which could lead to being open to saying ‘yes ’ to God ’ s mark he has placed on us, ” said one group leader.

Many of the young people reflected on how SAYCO helped them to explore and grow their faith, as well as giving them confidence as leaders.

“I ’ ve been inspired to trust in God and share his love through my actions, ” said a15year-old camper.

“I have been inspired to pray more, ” another camper said.

Every year, SAYCO provides a safe space for young people to engage with their faith in a variety of ways – but this could not happen without the work of tireless volunteers and local church group leaders.

“SAYCO was an excellent weekend of young people growing in faith and having great fun, ” said Coordinator Melissa Neumann. “Thank you to all those who contributed to the event. ” In 2016, SAYCO will again be held at Woodcroft College over the October long weekend (1-3 October, 2016).

For more information about SAYCO, please email sayco@sa.uca.org.au or visit sa.uca.org.au/sayco

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