St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
INTERSECTION
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
Winter 2015
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Mingary
Message from the Minister
Smooth seagulls swirl around the tower As though their body language had Something implicitly to say About the give-and-take between A sense of liberty and faith. Open to being read like this, Gulls arabesque around the tower. Mingary, in a truly ancient way Draws you into the quiet association Of water’s perpetual mobility With stable stone. Haled back from the city’s turbulence, You come into seclusion of a cavern Or hermit’s chapel, ready to brood on things As old as rock Some kind of church in 1841 Stood here. It has true grandeur now, Yet underneath its eloquence we find Mingary’s water and stone. Prayer’s Cave or Haven In brick and stone and glass The structure of St Michael’s stands Above a streaming Collins Street In brown, with ochre bands. Trusting the architecture may Convey an abstract thought, The gables and the tower reach up Implying something sought, Something believed in, something true: A meaning for the sky. And all around that yearning tower Seagulls and pigeons fly. by Chris Wallace-Crabbe
St Michael’s is a unique church in the heart of the city - unique for our relevant, contemporary preaching that embraces inner wellbeing as our core message. Sunday services include a mix of traditional and modern presentations. Inspirational music is an integral part of our services and most Sundays include performances from internationally renowned musicians. St Michael’s is a place that affirms and encourages the best expression of who you are and who you can be, not only through our Sunday Service, but also through our commitment to counselling and psychotherapy. We believe faith, spirituality and a meaning to life are vital ingredients for our health and wellbeing, and that there is a need to get hold of a more authentic religious understanding and to express it more confidently and diversely.
A Blessing For You May you find good friends and be good friends. May you enjoy the good things of life and share the good things in life with others. May you hear good stories and may you be carriers of good stories. Every day. - Francis Macnab
This edition of Intersection Newsletter is printed on 100% recycled paper. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Mingary Sunday On Sunday 10 May we celebrated 16 years of healing in the Mingary Quiet Place. Hundreds of people attended the special Sunday Service, which explored the awe-inspiring story of Mingary. After the service, the new Mingary Meditation Book was launched in the foyer of St Michael’s Hall. A free publication dedicated to enhancing the Mingary visitor-experience. The book is available from the Information Desk in St Michael’s Hall after Sunday Service, and from Mingary, The Quiet Place, during opening hours. Manager of Music, Rhys Boak, gathered some of the finest musicians to perform for this special event: Megan Reeve (Harp), Peter Sheridan (Flute), The St Michael’s Brass Ensemble and the St Michael’s Singers.
Peter Sheridan
Megan Reeve performing in Mingary
White flowers were worn by many
The St Michael’s Congregation
After the service, hundreds visited The Quiet Place 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
S.A.G.E. Seminars Sell Out
Stress Less, Laugh More
On Thursday 7 May, Comedian and Clown Doctor, Anthony Akroyd, presented a fascinating workshop in St Michael’s Hall. The Seminar explored how to use laughter to move away from stress and embrace positivity, creativity, happiness, fun and success.
Red Nose Day Memorial Service
Lighting candles for those who have been lost
Dr Macnab’s S.A.G.E. seminars have seen a huge increase in attendance in recent months. The April, May and June events sold-out as more than 150 people packed the St Michael’s Hall to hear Dr Macnab speak about healthy ageing in the 21st century. This increased interest in healthy ageing shows how much these seminars are wanted and needed. The next S.A.G.E. seminar will be:
After the service, doves were released in the courtyard
We were honoured to host the 25th SIDS memorial service on Friday 26 June, an annual special service dedicated to the young lives lost to SIDS. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
Everyone’s Task: Adapt to Life’s Rigid Realities. Macnab’s Principals of Adaptation. 11am, Friday 31 July Visit www.stmichaels.org.au for more information and to book for up coming S.A.G.E. seminars.
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Regional Morning Tea
We had a barrel of laughs at the East and North East Regional Morning Tea on Sunday 7 June. This wonderful gathering was made possible by Anita Sawatsky and Wendy Salisbury, with scrumptious catering by Heather Martin.
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Craig Coonan Tells His Mingary Story I stumbled across Mingary soon after it opened. At the time, I held a very demanding executive role with one of the major banks. This global position held many challenges for me and many times I felt so overwhelmed that I would leave my office and go for a walk to try and reduce my levels of stress and anxiety. It was while on one of these outings that I walked past the Mingary sign inviting people to enter The Quiet Place. At the time, I had no knowledge of St Michael’s nor a connection with any church. I had a deep need for a quiet space to help soothe the constant demands and noise in my life, and so I entered Mingary all those years ago. In time, Mingary became a regular space for me to visit during my lunch break, or during times of stress. It was extremely helpful. I continued to use Mingary from time to time even when I changed employer to the Docklands. It was around June or July 2008 when I had decided that I would attend a church service at St Michael’s. As organised religion had never been part of my life, it took me a while to confront some of my fear of the unknown. I had no understanding of what a Uniting Church offered compared to the Catholic or Anglican Church. I had no knowledge of Dr Macnab or the New Faith. By chance, my first visit to the church was St Michael’s Day 2008. While I enjoyed my first visit to St Michael’s, I was still very unsure at that time that ‘it was my thing’, particularly at my age where I had a busy work and home life with my wife and three school age children. With my work stress and anxiety continuing, I decided that I would continue to attend service when I could for a bit longer. I also decided to enquire about membership of St Michael’s.
demographic. I’ve never read the old or new testaments and I currently have no desire to do so. I just like the idea of a new faith with a modern and inclusive approach to spirituality - where everyone is welcomed. By being open to that little voice that spoke to me while I was sitting quietly at Mingary back in 2008, I’m now part of a broader community. A community that I can turn to when required, rather than trying to sort out my issues on my own. Mingary helped me to move from independence to interdependence. ___________________________________________ We’d like to thank Craig for his candid and inspirational story. If you would like to tell your Mingary or St Michael’s story please contact us at office@stmichaels.org.au.
It is now some six years later and I continue to be a fairly regular member of the congregation. I am no longer intimidated by a large and established church. Nor do I hold concerns about whether I fit into the age 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Be Part of the Digital Coracle of Mingary
Be Part of the Conversation
What is the Coracle of Mingary? In times gone by, a coracle was a small boat used by people living on the remote islands of Scotland to carry food and comfort to their neighbours. Dr Macnab was inspired by the solidarity and friendship these small boats represented. The Coracle of Mingary embodies the same values as the small boat - it helps to spread the word about Mingary, The Quiet Place and the healing work of Mingary Counselling Service. When you become a part of the Coracle of Mingary, you can help let others know about this unique place that gives people a place to pause, reflect and restore. You can join the Coracle online. Simply visit www.stmichaels.org.au/mingary/coracle-of-mingary and click the “join now” button. By doing this, you will be sent fortnightly emails to with ideas and updates about Mingary, The Quiet Place. Alternatively, you can simply write a letter to someone you know and tell them about Mingary. For more information pick up a copy of our free Mingary Meditation Book or visit our website. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
Each Sunday Dr Macnab invokes new conversations with his Sunday Address. Hundreds of people visit St Michael’s each week to be part of this conversation. The good news is, the conversation doesn’t end on Sunday. The Address is posted on our YouTube page and Website each week. No matter where you live in the world, you are able to participate every day in the conversations we create via social media. We invite you to visit St Michael’s online and be part of our conversation - watch, share and comment on all our images, blogs and videos. • www.stmichaels.org.au/blog • www.youtube.com/StMichaelsChurch • www.facebook.com/stmichaelsmelbourne • www.instagram.com/stmichaelsmelb
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
The Opening of the St Michael’s Gallery Dr Francis Macnab cut a purple ribbon and declared the new St Michael’s Gallery open during a special celebration on Sunday, 5 July, featuring thirteen artists from the St Michael’s community. Dr Macnab invited everyone to enjoy the extraordinary presentation of art, delicious cakes made by Heather Martin and champagne in celebration. As soon as we announced that we were opening a gallery the response from our community was immediate. The many talented artists within the St Michael’s community came forward to be part of this inaugural exhibition. Dr Macnab stated that “as you pass through the exhibition, all the artwork is excellent, all of it, no exception.” He also thanked all the artists who “have shown us that an empty space can suddenly take on colour in the most magnificent manner.” “This exhibition gives pleasure, and beyond pleasure there is a good purpose – it shows that St Michael’s is generating newness, new ideas and new programs.” We would like to thank the following exhibiting artists for their dedication to this fantastic exhibition: Wilmore Bajada, Barbara Bateman, June Furness, Dr George Galanis, Ken Gosbell, Robyn Horton, Ronald Muller, Stephen Ngaa, Eric Anthony Phillips, Rose Rokicki, Josephine Telfer, Ingrid Wilson and Patsy Worledge. The exhibition will run until Sunday 13 September and is open to the public during business hours and after Sunday Service. If you are interested in purchasing any of the artwork on display please contact the office on 9654 5120.
Dr Macnab cutting the purple ribbon, opening the gallery
Artists Robyn Horton, Josephine Telfer, Eric Anthony Phillips, Patsy Worledge, Barbara Bateman, Rose Rokicki, Ronald Muller and Ken Gosbell
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Dr Macnab announcing the opening of the St Michael’s Gallery
The first wave of art admirers enters the exhibition - accompanied by Joe Chindamo on piano
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
The Pillars Of St Michael’s
Nine Years of Celebrated Light
You are invited to become a part of St Michael’s history in a new program, The Pillars of St Michael’s. This new initiative gives members of the St Michael’s community the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for future generations. ‘The Pillars of St Michael’s’ offers a unique way to be a part of the church and contribute to the preservation of St Michael’s. Have your name or the name of a loved one inscribed on a dedication plaque placed on the base of one of the pillars in the church (pictured above). All funds from the plaques will go towards the conservation of St Michael’s. While this is an ongoing program, we will be holding a special ceremony on Sunday 15 November acknowledging the first Pillars of St Michael’s. Please note, to be part of this ceremony we must receive your application on or before Friday 2 October 2015. Visit www.stmichaels.org.au to download an application form, call the office on 9654 5120 or pick up an application form from the information desk in the hall after Sunday Service. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
The tapestry, Celebrated Light began with a poem, The Tapestry Greets the Traveller, by Dr Francis Macnab, nine years ago. Designed by artist Lara Merrett, the tapestry incorporates the poem into an important, colourful work of art, which now hangs in the interior of St Michael’s Church. The design reflects the sentiments expressed in the poem and the peripatetic nature of faith. The colour of the tapestry complement the beige, ochre and gold of the church, while its organic forms contrast with the geometry of the church’s interior architecture. Strikingly different from traditional iconoclastic art often found in churches. As a celebration of life, its message is one of joy and healing, conveying a sense of welcome, sanctuary and spiritual uplift to all who see it. To celebrate nine years of this beautiful artwork being part of St Michael’s, Dr Macnab dedicated his Sunday Address on July 12 to the tapestry, you can watch it onling at our website www.stmichaels.org.au.
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
What People Are Saying About St Michael’s
What People Are Saying About Mingary The Quiet Place
“Ten Star address (Is Religion a Waste of Time?) - A lifetime of researching, exploring, expressing a relevant meaningful religion. Should be compulsory viewing.” - Bruce D. Watson
“Love Mingary - solitude in the centre of our beautiful Melbourne. ” - Kay Carey
“Dr Macnab, your reasoning ability makes you an amazing person.” - Bernadette Brown “Dr Macnab, You are a marvel in so many ways. Thank you, for your meaningful sermons which you deliver every week, full of insight and inspiration.” - Andrew Gunn “(St Michael’s is ) such a beautiful and peaceful church.” - Dianne Burjorjee “The moment you enter, you feel embraced and welcomed with open arms.” - Artie Ng “St Michael’s is such a beautiful venue with so much history, and even though we had such a small wedding there the venue felt oddly intimate.” - Anonymous “Beautiful symetry, reminds of a carousel.” - K “I love the theatrical style of the interior and the wonderful acoustics.” - phunnyfotos
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
“The most brilliant concept; loved calling in whilst the city moved outside. Such a peaceful oasis in a bustling city.” - Bruce a’Beckett “A great place to unwind and think on the important things rather than on the things we think are important and are not. I like the fact that spirituality appears to be one of the emphases, but not religion per se.” - Jacob “I’ve been passing here (the Mingary Gardens) on my way to work. Just seeing it relaxes my eyes and my heart.” - Anonymous “I love the idea of the creation of a place of respite not linked to any one faith. Mingary itself was beautiful, peaceful and serene.” - Melbournaingirl “Really beautiful work! I especially like the welcome bowl.” - Halcyon “I feel blessed that Melbourne offers a place such as Mingary. It is truly a precious piece of hidden Melbourne.” - Joyce “A welcomed break from the bright lights and noise of the city.” - Chloe Brien
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Attending St Michael’s for Over 5 Decades
We love hearing stories from people who have a special place in their hearts for St Michael’s. Donald Marshall (pictured above in the white shirt) has been attending St Michael’s since 1962 and has been a member since 1990. He sent us this photograph showing one of the first times he visited St Michael’s. If you would like to share a story or a photo about your time at St Michael’s email us at office@stmichaels.org.au.
St Michael’s Gives to the Nepal Region Earthquake Appeal
The generous gift of $1000 from the St Michael’s community will go to provide: • Tarpaulins to provide immediate shelter. • Health and care services. • Emergency shelter kits. • Safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
Dr Neil Roy AM
We were delighted to hear that past St Michael’s Medallion recipient Dr Neil Roy received an AM at the recent Queen’s Birthday awards. The award honoured his significant service to medicine in the field of paediatrics, particularly through the development of neonatal transport services. Dr Roy led the development of the first state-wide Neonatal Emergency Transport Service (NETS). This service was not only transport, but also incorporated education and advisory and referral networks.
St Michael’s on Instagram
Have you seen the St Michael’s Instagram account? Visit and follow us at www.instagram.com/stmichaelsmelb to stay up to date with our beautiful photos and videos.
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
Remembering Vale
Max Kidd OAM
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of long-time members and friends of the St Michael’s congregation: • • • • •
Mr Allan Browne Mr Max Kidd Ms Joy Kneale Mrs Patsy Stubbs Dr John Williams
Max Kidd’s major passions were with family, education, rugby, church and community involvement. He was a strong advocate of “Play” and of group participation in everything he did. In his true spirit the family have asked to acknowledge the many groups whom Max shared his life with: rugby clubs, St Michaels Uniting Church, the ALP, dance and music communities, Low Vision Altona, and family friends.
Patsy Stubbs
We offer our condolences and support to their families and friends at this time.
Dr John Williams Dr John Williams, scholar, minister, educator died on Monday 8 June 2015. He had a distinguished career as a philosopher, preacher and teacher. He was a guest preacher in St Michael’s pulpit on many occasions, and was a strong supporter of the causes that were the high priorities of St Michael’s and its people. For many years, prior to his retirement, he was a senior teacher at St Leonards College, Brighton. He was a vigorous participant in philosophical debate both in Melbourne and New York. He was a man of outstanding ability and warm sensitivities. We record our gratitude for his presence in St Michael’s over several decades. 120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
Patsy Stubbs was a respected member of the St Michael’s community. She had a passion for the work of Mingary and The Cairnmillar Institute. Her compassion and kindness were deeply interwoven into her life. People in all walks of life were pleased to say they knew her. A dedicated worker with several important causes. • Salvation Army, Sacred Heart Mission. • The Ambulance Board. • Lort Smith Animal Care. • Monash University Centre for Ambulance. • Paramedic Studies.
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Green Intersection
Upcoming Sunday Programs Sunday 19 July 11.45am - New Faith Discussion Group Sunday 26 July 11.45am - Philosophy for Beginners Sunday 2 August 11.45am - French Conversation 11.45am - Mobile Minds
We are delighted to announce that the Intersection is now printed on 100% recycled paper. Printed on Impact recycled paper, a bright white 100% post consumer waste recycled paper, it meets the full complement of environmental accreditations. Manufactured carbon neutral by the recycled paper specialists Lenzing Paper, it is certified carbon neutral and chlorine free, with a net zero climate impact. The mill the paper is produced in uses 86% renewable energy, meaning emissions generated by producing the paper are incredibly low.
Sunday 9 August 11.45am - Poetry Group Searchers Group Excursion: Buddhist Centre Sunday 30 August 11.45am - Philosophy for Beginners Sunday 6 September 11.45am - French Conversation 11.45am - Mobile Minds Sunday 13 September 11.45am - New Faith Discussion Group Sunday 20 September Start of St Michael’s Week - Visit www.stmichaels.org.au for updates closer to this date
Getting Ready for St Michael’s Week We are only a few short months away from one of the most exciting times in our calendar, St Michael’s Week! St Michael’s Week will start on Sunday 20 September and culminate with a special St Michael’s Day Service on Sunday 27 September. Visit our website and Facebook page regularly in the coming weeks to hear about all the exciting events being announced.
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
St Michael’s ON COLLINS - MELBOURNE
Upcoming Events
Hiroshima Peace Service 10am, Sun 8 Aug St Michael’s will commemorate Hiroshima Peace Day with a special Sunday Service. Cost: Free
Wilma Smith And Friends 7pm, Fri 13 Nov An evening of inspirational chamber music with Donald Nicolson (harpsichord), Marya Martin (flute), Wilma Smith (violin). Cost: $30/$20
The Laborastory 7pm, Wed 19 Aug A special National Science Week event. Five scientists from diverse backgrounds, share remarkable stories of the heroes of their field. Cost: $15/$20
Professor Camilleri Lecture Series Tue 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Sep A series of five lectures exploring the most critical social, economic, environmental and security challenges of our times. Cost: $15 per lecture $50 for the whole series
St Michael’s Week Art Competition Applications Due Monday 31 August As part of our annual St Michael’s Week celebrations we are holding our first ever Art Competition. Artists are invited to enter artwork that responds to or embodies the ideals of quietness. Entry Fee :$25 One artwork per artist will be exhibited. Size limit of 40cm x 40cm. Due to space restrictions we will be accepting the first 40 entries only. For more information and to download the application pack visit www.stmichaels.org.au/gallery
120 Collins St Melbourne 3000
(03) 9654 5120 office@stmichaels.org.au www.stmichaels.org.au
Mingary Counselling Service Confidential, low-cost counselling
If you are seeking relief from painful or stressful experiences, assistance with major life changes or help reducing anxiety, fear and uncertainty, call Mingary Counselling services to make an appointment today. Or visit The Quiet Place (pictured above): a peaceful, nondenominational sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures. Open 8am to 5pm weekdays and 8am to 1pm Sundays; enter from the Russell Street side of St Michael’s.
St Michael’s Place, 120 Collins Street, Melbourne www.mingarycounselling.com.au | (03) 9654 5120