Guardian Easter 2018

MAR 2018

GUARDIAN THE MAGAZINE OF THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF ADELAIDE

Music Ministry In Myanmar

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THE ANGLICAN GUARDIAN Published by the Diocese of Adelaide Edited by Peter March Phone: (08) 8305 9350 Fax: (08) 8305 9399 Email: pmarch@adelaideanglicans.com www.adelaideanglicans.com

Layout and Design by Alex Gatley agatley@adelaideanglicans.com

The Light of Reason

By Margaret Clark Based on a Christmas sermon by John Donne and a composition by Nicholas O'Neil to commemorate the life of Jo Cox, a member of the British Parliament who was killed for her compassion for refugees.

Take this light of reason and light from it your candle.

Give thanks to God for humble beginnings.

See in the light, your Saviour in a stable, his mother in heavenly obedience and earthly shame.

Understand the sacrifice of Son, mother and earthly father.

Watch their flight to Egypt and see in them

Subscriptions: Diocesan Office 18 King William Rd, North Adelaide 5006 Phone: (08) 8305 9350

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the refugees that travel homeless in our world.

Watch him heal and comfort yet live his life with nowhere to rest his weary head.

Follow him into the garden. Stay with him a while in prayer and grief for a damaged world Deny him not as he is whipped and hung upon a tree.

Stand by and share his mother’s tears.

Turn that tiny light inward. See your own soul

The Guardian is a member of The Australasian Religious Press Association

and let the light cast out the darkness.

For when the bright fire of worldly man burns itself to ash, that tiny flame, lit from the light of Christ, the light of reason and compassion, shows pearls of great wisdom to warm and guide you to eternal life.

Ann Nadge is The Guardian’s Poetry Editor.

Submissions of no more than 20 lines can be sent to ann_nadge@yahoo.com

The joy of learning

Anglican Schools . . . the right choice Enquiries: Jim Raw, Anglican Schools Liaison Officer 18 King William Rd, North Adelaide 5006 Phone: 8305 9349

INVESTIGATOR COLLEGE 2 Glendale Grove, Goolwa.

Ph: 8555 5700

PULTENEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL 190 South Terrace, Adelaide.

Ph: 8216 5555

ST. COLUMBA COLLEGE President Avenue, Andrew’s Farm.

Ph: 8254 0600

ST. PETER’S COLLEGE Hackney Road, St. Peter’s.

Ph: 8362 3451

ST PETER’S WOODLANDS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 39 Partridge Street, Glenelg.

Ph: 8295 4317

WALFORD ANGLICAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 316 Unley Road, Hyde Park.

Ph: 8272 6555

PEDARE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 2-30 Surrey Farm Drive, Golden Grove.

Ph: 8280 1700

ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOL 22 Smith Street, Walkerville, Ph: 8168 5555

ST. JOHN’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL 29 Gloucester Avenue, Belair.

Ph: 8278 2233

ST. PETER’S COLLEGIATE GIRLS’ SCHOOL Stonyfell Road, Stonyfell.

Ph: 8334 2200

TRINITY COLLEGE Alexander Avenue, Evanston South.

Ph: 8522 0666

WOODCROFT COLLEGE Bains Road, Morphett Vale.

Ph: 8322 2333

THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP Archbishop Geoffrey Smith

We are now well and truly into the wonderful season of Lent, that forty days of preparation helping us to be ready to celebrate the gift of our salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus and recommit ourselves to following Jesus as his disciples. Like many other words ‘disciple’ or ‘discipleship’ can easily become just another piece of jargon brought out when convenient but otherwise ignored. The concept of ‘following Jesus’, which ‘discipleship’ describes, is central to being a Christian. Through our baptism, (whether it was called Christening or baptism, whether it happened in an Anglican or other church context and whether it involved loads of water or just a little) we are called to be disciples of Jesus. A disciple is not a super Christian more committed and enthusiastic than an ordinary Christian.

To be a Christian, to have accepted Jesus as Lord and saviour, is to have heard and answered ‘yes’ to the call to be a disciple, to follow Jesus. In other words, a Christian is a disciple of Christ-the two cannot be separated.

a lecture and then get on with their normal life. The disciples learned by spending time with Jesus and each other.

A disciple is a learner, someone who learns from the teacher. A disciple of Jesus seeks to learn from Jesus, to become like Jesus, to continue and expand the ministry of Jesus and to make disciples of others. We can clearly see in the four gospel accounts (Matthew Mark Luke and John) Jesus interacting with the disciples to teach them and show them what it is to be a disciple. Their learning was not classroom based. They didn’t have

With Easter only a couple of weeks away, can I encourage us all to make use of the remaining time of Lent to prepare for that wonderful feast so that we are ready to recommit to following Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit. That’s our calling, that’s our vocation and that is what will make a real difference to the community in which we live.

Discipleship is critical for Christians.

Effective discipleship is also critical for us as we participate in the work of God in our community. God has a vision for the world called in the gospels the kingdom of heaven or the kingdom of God and God is bringing this vision into reality. As disciples of Jesus, we have a part to play in that process by pointing to God’s vision, helping others to get on board with what God is doing and ourselves acting in a way which makes the vision become a reality today.

Jesus’ first disciples spent time with him literally and that’s how they learned. As disciples today, we spend time with him as we read and reflect on the gospels and the rest of the New Testament, as we spend time in prayer and as we spend time with other disciples. The whole point of that is to become more like Jesus and continue his work.

contents

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MISSION

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Music Ministry in Myanmar

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Helping To Change Young People’s Lives

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FAITH

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St Barnabas Celebrates Start of New Academic Year

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How Good to Meet Up With St Barnabas After All These Years

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FOCUS

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What Could Be Better Than Cricket

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Meet Our New Registrar & Secretary of Synod

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The 10th Anniversary Of The Apology To The Stolen Generations

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The Quickest Warmth

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A Reflection on Billy Graham

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COMMUNITY

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Church Responds to PNG Earthquake

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Centenary of the ABM Good Friday Gift

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St Saviour’s Do Battle For The Ashes

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New Exhibition Reconciles AnglicareSA’s Work With Christian Faith and Life

17 Nick Moves To Mobilise Young Graduates 17

City Bible Forum: Season 2018

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Film Review: Mary Magdalene

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MISSION

Music Ministry in Myanmar

by Rev’d Mark Peterson I have for decades been thinking that music ministry is something we need to do better at in Australian Anglican churches, particularly contemporary music.

It’s not that I don’t love traditional music. A number of the inspiring moments that nudged me in the direction of 12 years of vocational music ministry included relishing in the sound of a thunderously well-played pipe organ, the addition of a melodious, peeling trumpet, or a choir with tight harmonies.

But if I think about the types of music with which most of the wider Australian community is familiar, it’s the stuff written in the last 50 years. Their ears are attuned to what we loosely call contemporary music.

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I’m not saying we can win them by hiring a rock band. I’m saying we’re faced with the confronting reality that although many of us have grown up in the church with ears attuned to traditional music, the vast majority of the people we would like to introduce to Christ have not. And so for their sakes, we need to get better at doing contemporary music in our services. For some of us this may be a bit like doing cross-cultural ministry.

Although we can come to value deeply the musical traditions around us, music is simply a language with a whole range of dialects. We need to get skilled in it, but it’s not the main thing.

Somewhat out of the blue in early 2015, I was asked if I would consider travelling to Myanmar to teach an intensive course on song writing in the Music and Ministry school in the Diocese of Mandalay. Come again?

A Music and Ministry school? In an Anglican Diocese overseas I’d never heard of?

I am still struck by the wisdom and boldness of their strategy. There are some aspects of the program that would probably only work in a place like Myanmar, like the fact that 10-20 young men live together in a big room in the Diocesan head office for 2 years. But there are other aspects that are quite transportable, such as the program of Bible teaching and music teaching that equips these young men to run music ministry in churches throughout the Diocese in the future.

Their trainers include the Bishop, an Archdeacon and a couple of priests, along with a range of musical specialists. They are being trained to work alongside Parish Priests in remote areas, and will be skilled in both traditional hymns (of which there are many that have been translated into the Burmese language) and contemporary guitar-driven and band

driven music. There is a rapidly growing collection of locally written gospel songs, which is what these young guys are most likely to major in.

So I went in June last year with a former colleague, Chris Jolliffe. We were sponsored by the Diocese of Willochra, who had caught the vision of what Mandalay were trying to do and had decided to support it financially in a range of ways, including supplying musical instruments. It was a song writing intensive, and, since the best hymns are written by people with biblical and theological training, Chris and I made sure we included a substantial biblical reflection component. So we split the task in half.

He would teach them the Letter to the Hebrews, and I would teach them how to put the ideas from that letter into song.

Well, we had a blast. It was hard work, particularly because of the language and translation issues – after all, song writing requires a pretty good grasp of words and meaning. And we only found out on the final day that about half the class only spoke Burmese as a second language, so there was double translation going on!

But our overwhelming feeling was positive. Chris opened Hebrews for them in a way that shone a bright light of clarity on the great gift of the gospel, for which we are deeply grateful to the Spirit of God. Over the length of the course they became better able to articulate what they were hearing and then use different turns of phrase to transform those ideas into corporate songs.

There are some wonderful people driving these efforts to inspire and train in music, and I hope new musical traditions spring out of their efforts. And yet we must not get the cart before the horse.

There are some budding skilled song writers amongst them. But is song writing what they really need?

One of ways I like to shock new recruits in a church music ministry is by telling them that church music has very little to do with music. Perhaps I’m overstating it, but we need to be clear about why we sing. Although we can come to value deeply the musical traditions around us, music is simply a language with a whole range of dialects. We need to get skilled in it, but it’s not the main thing.

I’ve reflected long and hard on this (including before I agreed to go). I think music traditions spring out of song writing. When musical creativity bursts into life, people’s attention is grabbed and they want to participate.

And creativity begets creativity: writing leads to arranging, performing, more song writing and so on. This is what I hope and pray will happen in Myanmar.

There is a message that should always take priority over the means or methods by which we attempt to communicate it. Jesus called it “the good news of the kingdom.” It is an unchanging message, just as relevant for Myanmar as for Australia. But here’s the thing: whilst the message never changes, language develops continually. So just as we need up-to-date translations of the Bible, and

Over the length of the course they became better able to articulate what they were hearing and then use different turns of phrase to transform those ideas into corporate songs. new sermons for a new week, so we need new songs, to retell the old, old story.

I hope to return to Myanmar one day to continue to support them in whatever way I can. But it also makes me think more about our own context. Music has the ability to put into our mouths the truths that have been handed down to us. But we don’t just want congregations mouthing the truths! We want them to grab hold of them in their hearts.

Join me in praying not only for the Diocese of Mandalay, but also for the crop of young musicians heading out to the churches to help them praise the Saviour!

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MISSION

Helping To Change Young People’s Lives Supporting young people to be the best they can be through strong relationships, a love of learning, finding the right career and being connected with their community is a key driver for many of AnglicareSA’s programs.

Sadly, many young people lack stability in their lives, affecting their education, social and future career prospects.

Two programs by AnglicareSA are having a major impact on the lives of the most vulnerable in our community – Power Generation and Turning Point.

Nineteen year old D’Allen Worden credits the Power Generation program for his success in securing a full-time traineeship with the State Government.

A partnership between AnglicareSA and the Port Adelaide Football Cub’s Power Community Ltd, the Power Generation program supports young Aboriginal students to continue their education and transition into vocational training and employment. Practical and relevant assistance is given, including

mentorship, job readiness, emotional wellbeing, driving lessons and access to training.

D’Allen said he was introduced to the program when he attended a Powerful Futures Expo hosted by the Port Adelaide Football Club.

“I spoke with the Power Generation Coordinator and a week later she rang me and helped me explore some employment opportunities,” he said.

“She helped me source appropriate work clothes for job interviews and write cover letters and resumés for every job I applied for. She gave me interview tips and put me in touch with recruiters for the Government’s Jobs4Youth program.”

“As a result, I am now working in a full-time administration traineeship position with the Department of Premier and Cabinet.”

“The Power Generation staff go above and beyond to support young Aboriginal school-leavers like me to achieve their dreams.”

Another much-needed and successful program from AnglicareSA is Turning Point. This program provides safety, dignity and stability for single parent families fleeing domestic and family violence. AnglicareSA provides them with short-term housing and social support, helping the children address trauma and stay engaged in school, whilst transitioning the families into stable, long-term housing.

Since 2016, the program has assisted 20 families to transition through this program and 85% percent of participants have gone on to secure stable housing.

Turning Point program recipients arrive at the service often at the lowest point in their lives. As one Turning Point recipient said, “If it wasn’t for AnglicareSA and the Turning Point staff my kids and I would have nothing right now. They gave me hope and made me come alive again.”

These life changing programs need your support.

Please donate to the AnglicareSA Autumn Appeal today to help change the life of a young person.

Phone 8305 9200 or visit our website www.anglicaresa.com.au

Help AnglicareSA offer young people relevant and practical support to keep them active in education and pursue their career goals.

Please make a tax deductible gift by donating online at anglicaresa.com.au or call us on 08 8305 9200

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FAITH

St Barnabas Celebrates Start of New Academic Year St Barnabas College began the 2018 academic year on Wednesday 21 February 2018 with its Prizegiving and Commencement Service at St Peter’s Cathedral.

The occasion, set within the Order of Evening Prayer, was presided over by The Rev’d Canon Jenny Wilson, with Archbishop Geoffrey Smith delivering the Commencement Address in which he outlined his vision for the future of St Barnabas College.

Five graduates of last year’s programs were recognized: Linda Dillon and Grant Moore for having received a Bachelor of Theology; Carol Cornwall and Marian Giles the Graduate Certificate in Ageing and Pastoral Care; and Wendy Jeffrey a Graduate Diploma in Theology.

Prize winners of the College included Nicola Brice, Deborah Jeanes, Grant Moore, Wendy Morecroft and Michael Rogers.

Acting Principal, The Rev’d Dr Don Owers AM was very pleased with the joyful and positive tone of the service which was attended by staff and students of the college, members of the College Council, and guests from other Adelaide theological colleges.

The evening finished with a light supper in the atrium of the St Barnabas Building, where a sense of celebration of the new academic year was felt and appreciated by all.

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FAITH

How Good To Meet Up With St Barnabas After All These Years

by Archdeacon Emeritus Michael Whiting

On Friday 11 June 1880, Bishop Augustus Short laid the foundation stone of the Diocese of Adelaide’s first theological college and named it after St Barnabas. The day was the Feast Day of St Barnabas, Short’s seventy-eighth birthday, and was during his thirty-third year as our Diocesan Bishop. Short’s first biographer, F T Whitington, assumed the College was named after Barnabas because it was Short’s birthday – I have never been too sure about that!

Short could be vain like any of us, yet in matters of theology and church policy he was usually more modest and restrained. I am convinced Short had loftier intentions in naming the College, and as St Barnabas is my favourite early church father, I dreamt up an excuse to go in search of an answer. Now, 2000 years is a long time I admit but I thought if I went to Cyprus (Barnabas’ home), reading Acts of the Apostles all the while, then clues would be uncovered about the saint; clues which might indicate Short’s intentions.

So, Janine and I travelled to Cyprus in January, and what an adventure. Few locations in the world have been at the crossroads of history like Cyprus, and the locals delightfully celebrate this remarkable history. We know from the Acts of the Apostles that Barnabas was

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a native of Cyprus, a Jew and a Levite.

A contemporary of Our Lord, he visited Jerusalem like others (such as Saul of Tarsus!) to immerse himself in his faith then was converted. Family members lived in Jerusalem (I like to think he was John Mark’s uncle) and it is reasonable to assume that he may have witnessed Our Lord’s ministry for he was well known and greatly respected by the first apostles.

In the Acts of the Apostles (ch9), when the newly converted Saul visits Jerusalem to interview the suspicious and wary apostles, it is Barnabas who extends the hand of friendship and trust and recommends the younger man. Not long after it is Barnabas and Saul setting off from Antioch for that first great missionary journey – beginning in Cyprus, at Salamis, Barnabas’ home. Here the gospel is preached, and the two men travel via the coast (as we did) to the capital, Paphos. The story, as told by Luke in Acts of the Apostles, (ch13), is gripping.

Then the real character of Barnabas begins to shine – he has recognised the brilliance in the younger man and God’s intentions for him - so, he steps aside to let Saul’s star rise; no signs of jealousy or resentment just loyalty and unselfishness and generosity. Saul, now Paul, and Barnabas continue the missionary journey to Asia Minor with results we all still live with. Barnabas is called by Luke ‘a good man, full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 11.24) and he becomes

the great example of Christian humility and goodness, of trust in the Lord, of someone who understood the thoughts soon to be written by St John (John 14.23) – and Jesus answered him, ‘Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home in them’. Barnabas loves his Lord, keeps his word, and the Lord abides in him!

Since the Turkish occupation of Northern Cyprus in 1974, and the subsequent ceasefire, the location of Barnabas’ burial site has been in Turkish-controlled lands. Crossing the border, we travelled to the outskirts of ancient Salamis (adjacent to the modern city of Famagusta). Down a side road, in a non-descript paddock under a few trees, is a small Byzantinestyle chapel. Here is the resting place of the saint. The chapel is small, empty except for icons on its walls. Down a narrow, worn smooth staircase of fourteen steps, there is the grotto where the remains of Barnabas are believed to be – tradition holds he was buried with a copy of St Matthew’s gospel. The unassuming and modest nature of this space, where thousands upon thousands of pilgrims have come over the centuries, and prayed, some lighting candles, overwhelms the visitor.

How true to the character of the man as revealed by St Luke and revered by Cypriot Christians to this day. Up in the winter sunlight, not more the fifty metres away, is the Monastery of St Barnabas – no monks now, but caring locals who manage the site and admit visitors to the monastic church with its compelling frescos and icons.

While Augustus Short never visited Cyprus, he shared St Luke’s understanding – here was a church father the paragon of Christian ministry. Who better to name a theological college after? On Monday 28 November 1881, in his last official act before retiring and returning to England, Bishop Short dedicated his theological college of St Barnabas, and his intention was clear – could there be a more appropriate inspiration for prospective ordinands than one such as Barnabas? What a legacy, and what a stirring way to conclude such a distinguished episcopacy!

by Sandy Mitchell I have to confess that one of the highlights of summer for me is cricket – cricket in all its forms.

I love cricket, even more so when Australia or the Strikers are winning! Yes, I have to admit that I am rather one-eyed, but I am not alone in my enthusiasm for the sport.

This summer, thousands upon thousands of cricket enthusiasts have watched cricket on television or attended matches, some travelling around the country to support Australia or their chosen Big Bash team. The Barmy Army travels the world in support of the English team and their enthusiasm cannot be ignored - even when their hopes of retaining the Ashes were dashed!

What is it about sport that inspires supporters to the point where they commit themselves to “outward and visible signs” of their commitment team colours, team songs, homage paid to heroes and heroines (especially the captain) for their part in the action? It is liturgical. Supporters move into the ‘sacred space’ of the sporting arena in an attitude of excited anticipation, flags and a variety of symbols in readiness, voices prepared to sing the praises of the side whom they hope will be the victors. In supporting their chosen team, they believe they are on to a good thing – at least they hope they are.

It is quite an extraordinary experience to be part of a 50,000 strong crowd, hopeful of victory but nevertheless without assurance, yearning perhaps to be part of something greater than itself.

And all of this made possible through the rigorous, committed training of the players, generous donations from sponsors for high quality (some may beg to differ) promotion of each event

and willingly purchased tickets by the enthusiasts.

As I watched one such crowd entering the arena it gave me pause for thought.

Could the church draw such a crowd?

After all, its members support a team – “The Kingdom” - whose captain has already won the victory on behalf of its members. Anyone who joins this team –there is always room for new members, no waiting list necessary – has complete assurance of the trophy won on their behalf. Not the Ashes for this team but Abundant, Eternal Life.

We live in an increasingly secular world yet vast numbers of people are desperately searching for something to give lasting meaning and purpose to their lives, often in ways that lead to disappointment and despair. Christians have the best news that anyone could receive. It is news that sets the captives free from every kind of fear, from broken relationships, lovelessness and loss of identity. It is news that brings Jesus’ assurance of forgiveness for the truly penitent and an eternal relationship with the Author of the universe. We are known and loved in wonderful, immeasurable, unconditional ways. There is no other news like it. It is news to be rejoiced in and shared.

That is what Jesus has invited us, indeed commanded us to do.

I pray that 2018 will see a ground-swell of enthusiasm in this diocese for the Gospel of Jesus, his Kingdom and the renewal of our church. The hymn writer Edward J Burns penned, “We have a gospel to proclaim, good news for all throughout the earth; the gospel of a Saviour’s name: we sing his glory, tell his worth [for] … he broke the power of death and hell that we might share his victory.” This is the news a broken world needs to hear. Dare we pray: “Here we are Lord, send us in whatever way you choose.”?

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FOCUS

What Could Be Better Than Cricket?

Meet Our New FOCUS

Registrar and Secretary of Synod

by Peter March

It was in October 2017 that the Anglican Diocese of Adelaide appointed a new Registrar and Secretary of Synod but it wasn’t until January 2018 that Amanda Harfield started in the job.

Amanda entered the role with a wealth of experience in corporate governance, legislation and law, previously serving as the Associate Director of the University of Adelaide’s in-house legal team.

Her qualifications cover Science, Law, Business Administration as well as having completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Directors Course.

After more than three months of anxious anticipation, Guardian finally got to sit down with Amanda to discover a little bit about what makes her tick…

Q. What attracted you to apply for the position of Registrar/Secretary of Synod?

past, present and future. I have been connected with St George’s for over 10 years now.

A. The opportunity to serve in this unique position was an important consideration in my application. I have a passion for both governance and leadership that fits well with the requirements of the position. My previous roles across a few different sectors provide me with a broad base of experience that I considered would allow me to bring some different insights to the role of Registrar/ Secretary of Synod.

Q. I understand you’re a 4WD/camping enthusiast – where does that passion stem from?

Q. Has the reality met your expectations of the role after the first month?

Q. Where was you last 4WD trip to?

What was your best/most memorable 4WD experience?

A. Yes! I have however been surprised (in a positive way) by the breadth of activities being undertaken in Parishes and across the Dioceses and just how hard working and committed people are.

A. My last trip was beach camping in the Coorong – a breath taking place.

My most memorable 4WD experience has to be my wedding! Thornton and I were married in the Flinders Ranges – and of course the bride and groom arrived in a 4WD. We then undertook a 4WD holiday into central Australia with friends and enjoyed all of the sights of the West McDonnell Ranges.

Q. How does Church Office differ from previous workplaces?

A. It is an obvious thing to say but it has a God-centred approach to work.

This is very different from my previous experiences – and is refreshing and energising. Speaking about your faith in this work place is encouraged!

Q. Where do you worship? How long have you worshipped there?

A. St George’s at Magill. We recently celebrated our 170th birthday – a lovely occasion to reflect on the

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A. I enjoy being able to experience the beautiful landscape and wildlife, particularly in remote parts of South Australia. When in these locations, you must focus on the ‘here and now’ – the environment demands your attention – allowing you to properly put into perspective other aspects of your life.

Q. Do you have any other passions/ hobbies/interests?

A. I enjoy watching and being around birds. Their behaviours are fascinating and their intelligence under-rated.

This interest matches very nicely with my passion for camping and being outdoors. At home we currently have a magpie pair who visit us daily and so I get lots of opportunities to learn more about them.

by Bishop Chris McLeod February 13th this year saw the 10th Anniversary of the ‘National Apology to the Stolen Generations’ by the then Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd. It was a significant event in the life of Australia and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; especially for the stolen generations and their descendants. It was a moment of great hope and promise. At last a government of Australia was prepared to acknowledge the wrongs of the past, and the trauma inflicted upon the stolen generations and their descendants. It coupled Paul Keating’s 1992 ‘Redfern Speech’ as a high watermark, in my opinion, of responsible and courageous political leadership. At the heart of the ‘Apology’ was the issue of ‘truth telling’.

An acceptance that Australia for all its greatness does get some things very wrong, and certainly did in the past with the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their parents.

It has also been 20 years since the release of ‘Bringing them Home: the report of the National Inquiry into the separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their families’.

This report still makes for very important reading, especially given that only 19 of the 54 recommendations have been fully implemented. The question most often asked is have things become better or

worse since ‘Bringing them home’ and the ‘Apology’.

The issue of inter-generational trauma has risen in prominence over the last two decades. Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples carry within their family networks deep scars of trauma. This often leads to a cluster of issues and problems. Some of which can be depression, anxiety, acute low self-esteem, emotional ‘numbness’, unexplained feelings of deep sadness, anti-social behavior, interpersonal and relationship issues, poor mental and physical health, and at the more extreme end, violence and aggression, substance abuse, and suicide. There is often a pall of a sense of worthlessness that hangs over many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; especially those who have the forced removal of children in their family histories (which is just about every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person!). This inter-generational trauma increases with each new generation as the issues surrounding this trauma are not dealt with: one generation hands it onto another.

Some of these things I know at a personal level. My Aboriginal grandmother, and my mother and her sister, were members of the ‘Stolen Generations.’ My mother was taken from her mother and placed in an orphanage

I have written in the past about the importance of ‘truth telling’, and that is the issue that seems to confound many who struggle with the idea of Australian ‘Stolen Generations’. There are some in the Australian populace who are in deep denial about the existence of the ‘Stolen Generations’, and seem to be unable to accept that Australia has a troubled history with the treatment of its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Christians have nothing to fear from the truth, and we of all people know the power that sin has in shaping our personal and collective actions.

The misguided belief that Australia has, and can do, no wrong is simply fantasy.

The reality of the forced separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, and its consequences, need to be squarely faced. I believe it to be an essential component of the healing that needs to take place in the heart of our nation.

The ‘Apology’ was an important step on the journey towards reconciliation, yet there is much more still be done and more truths to be faced.

L to R: Bishop Chris’ grandmother, Dolly, aunt Sylvia and mother, Margaret on the banks of the Todd River, just outside the ‘Telegraph Station’, Alice Springs, circa 1942/3.

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FOCUS

The 10th Anniversary of the Apology to the Stolen Generations

at three years of age, and lived in a number of institutions from thereon. My own mother was deeply traumatized by this experience, and lived with severe and debilitating depression all her adult life. She lived in constant fear that her children would be removed from her or something sinister would happen to us. We were taught to ‘lay low’, and not draw attention to ourselves, just in case. It made for a complex upbringing.

I should quickly add, however, that we experienced great love from her, and she did her best to provide a healthy home for her children. My sister, Ronda (a retired primary school teacher), and I turned out alright, I think. I would also hasten to add that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, members of the ‘Stolen Generations’ and their descendants, have achieved much and live perfectly healthy and productive lives, go to school and university, have jobs, have families, and contribute greatly to the well-being of society. Yet, we do so in the context of having to face our own traumatic histories; often on a daily basis.

FOCUS

The Quickest Warmth

by Peter March & Prue O’Donovan In a climate when funding for emergency relief and assisting those who

contributors and supporters from all across South Australia who have made, purchased, donated literally thousands of items, handmade quilts and rugs, blankets, handmade clothing, bedding, kitchen items, new handmade curtains, toiletries, books and stationery for children and teens, to any group or organisation who needs help.

have fallen on hard times is withdrawn and dried up, it’s the generosity of volunteers that can make the difference to so many people.

Donations have been made to several Anglicare programs, four DCP venues, Aboriginal health, the APY Lands, Domestic violence, Adelaide centre for Homeless men, Gawler Community House. Dolls, wooden and other new toys, pillowbeds, new socks and underwear, and just about anything that assists people in difficult circumstances.

A project to make warm sleeping bags for people experiencing some level of homelessness began last winter. In the past 3 Christmases, QW has made and distributed close to 700 Christmas stockings that are used by staff to provide Christmas gifts to their children clients.

QW supporters, The Round Table Quilters make aprons for staff and volunteers at the Way Cafe, Elizabeth Mission

The Quickest (Quilt Crochet Knit Embroider Sew Team) Warmth Project (QW) is a group of volunteers who create and provide colourful, ageappropriate items for children and young people whose lives meet with adversity.

The handmade and newly purchased quilts, blankets clothing, carry bags, beanies, scarves, toys, pillow cases, quilt covers, and decorative cushions find their way to the many children for whom these gifts bring joy and comfort.

Prue O’Donovan explains how she became involved the project, “To be honest, I suffer terribly with the cold and I felt increasingly aware of and concerned for people who were experiencing homelessness.

Whether couch-surfing, car-sleeping or living rough, it seems a desolate and dehumanising experience. To eliminate this situation for people would be wonderful, but in reality, there are people living in these vulnerable situations and I felt the need to provide what we could for people. The Rev’d Gail Hardy and I had 7 handmade quilts

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and thought we would see where they might be best used. I sent an email to our local MP, Tony Piccolo, who forwarded it onto about 40 care agencies in the Gawler area. Families SA (now department for Child Protection, Gawler) was first to respond. After a wonderful interview with the senior financial counsellor, our first 7 quilts were delivered. That was in April 2015.”

As the Quickest Warmth Project approaches its 3rd birthday, it has grown to include almost 200

“We put out a ‘Weekly Special’ to the venues which, are items received in the week past. Staff put in their requests and we pass on what we have and attempt to access other needs and requests.

“Very often carers and social workers will send us a wonderful note containing responses from people who receive these items.”

The 200 contributors and supporters are men, women and some children who have a heart to help others…

Mothers’ Union in all three Dioceses are huge supports, there are congregations of many denominations, quilting, craft and other groups, individuals, people in aged care facilities, businesses and op shops very often provide needed items, schools, Guides, bereavement groups, a men’s shed, Anglicare, DCP also provide.

“The amazing growth of The Quickest Warmth Project has been astounding, but we help wherever help is requested without question or judgement. There is never any pressure on people to contribute, so some are seasonal,

and all offer what they love giving and making. These are people who have a heart to give and know that what they offer finds a home somewhere. So many people relate how much they love being able to create and donate.

“The monthly newsletter keeps people in touch, thank you notes for items provided let people know where things have been distributed and an annual thank you day (birthday party) and other coffee mornings are times when people can gather. Between 50 and 80 people turn out for these events, any meeting for the first time. With the assistance of DCP Gawler we will have our third birthday party and Thank You Day in April/May. People bring hundreds of items and the care agencies present can take them for their clients.”

Funding is completely through donations, and money is used to purchase more expensive craft items for quilters and knitters and sew-ers.

Sometimes money has enabled QW to supply requests for other items, pillows, new clothing and underwear, packs for new born babies etc.

A Reflection on Billy Graham

by Yvonne Davis Whoever said a Saint was perfect?

History shows that the most influential prophets were those who were not immediately joyful at the prospect of being called by God to do a particular task, and yet, they did it anyway.

As Bill Hybel once said, “The greatest and most effective life’s work happens when these three things come together: 1 Temperament, 2 Natural ability, 3 Spiritual gift.

In Billy Graham” Hybel continues, “all three did coincide: his temperament was extrovert, happy with filling stadiums full of people, and, having the self-confidence to bring the word of God to the people, as he felt compelled to do. Secondly, his natural ability gave him the stamina, drive, voice, persuasion and mental ability to complete his task without flagging. Thirdly, he was a spirit-filled person with the God-given gift of EVANGELISM and used that gift with maximum efficiency.”

Throughout my church life, I have been struck by the number of people who have confessed to being a Christian by the influence of Billy Graham and his Adelaide Crusade at Wayville in 1959.

“There are different needs for different contexts which means that needs are great when requests are made for example, Anglicare’s Housing inclusion program in the north has been able to provide people going into housing with brand new curtains, made or renovated

by QW supporters. Dozens of curtains have been given and distributed.”

Being only sixteen at the time, I had only once heard the name of Billy Graham, by overhearing a conversation in the locker room at school. I thought nothing more of the name until an old friend invited me to go to the Crusade with him. What on earth did that mean?

To get involved in the Quickest Warmth project contact Prue O’Donovan on 0412 387 641 or at prudy@internode.on.net

There was a plan: read the bible daily, pray every day, and, attend church.

What alarmed me was the urgency of his message, and his sincerity. The call to come forward to make a decision to follow Christ, over-powered me; I found myself with hundreds of others on the Wayville oval, streaming to the front of the stage where dozens of counsellors waited.

Church for me had been a rare happening but my friend encouraged me to go. This new experience helped me to see God in a new light, a more accessible light. So, I began a journey!

I am still on that journey, which has taken me in many directions.

From a simple faith, convinced of the infallibility of the bible, I began studying theology in various forms. This led to interest in the emerging Christianity, and, changing my understanding of the nature of religion, over the last sixty years.

Knowledge and relationships are never static, and so, I believe that the Ground of all being is leading us into an ever greater understanding of life and love.

I truly thank and praise Billy Graham for his part in getting me, and millions of others, started on this life’s journey of enlightenment!

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COMMUNITY

Church Responds to PNG Earthquake From ACNS The death toll from the recent magnitude 7.5 earthquake in Papua New Guinea has reached 67 as aftershocks continue to hit the island.

Churches are helping to co-ordinate relief efforts and are working across denominations to ensure aid reaches those most in need.

A Church Partnership Program has brought together members of the Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea, the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea, the Catholic Church, the Lutheran Church, Salvation Army, Seventh Day Adventist and the United Church in Papua New Guinea.

The United Church has establishing church-led response centres in Tari, Hela Province and Mendi, Southern Highlands, to coordinate initial needs assessments and share church actions and to plan for the coordinated response and recovery efforts.

“People are bewildered and traumatised by the severe events . . . and families continue to sleep outside for fear of the ongoing aftershocks,” said United Church Bishop Wai Tege.

“People of the highlands are not used to the impact of natural disasters, and this Magnitude 7.5 earthquake has taken everyone by surprise. The last major earthquake to hit the highlands region . . . was in 1922 – almost a century ago.”

The Anglican Primate of Papua New Guinea, Archbishop Allan Migi, has returned to the country following this weekend’s regional Primates’ Meeting in Fiji. He has told ACNS that the Anglican Church in PNG is focusing its efforts on Jimi, Chimbu, Siane and Momase areas, where homes and gardens have been severely damaged and there is a need for food, including rice, flour and oil, as well as carpentry tools, building materials, gardening tools, canvas for shelter, safe water and second hand clothes.

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The Church intends to purchase supplies locallally, in Goroka or Mt Hagen, and transport them to parishes by road or air. He is asking Anglicans and others to support the emergency appeal by the Anglican Board of Mission (ABM) in Australia.

“About 150,000 [people] are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance,” ABM said yesterday as they launched an emergency appeal. “Many highland villages, particularly in the area west of Mt Hagen, have been cut off by fallen power lines and blocked roads.

This situation is hampering efforts to distribute emergency supplies to remote villages. There is a real concern of food shortages, as well as health and hygiene issues if aid cannot reach the victims of this disaster.

“There have been reports of three strong aftershocks of more than magnitude-5, about 600 km north-west of Port Moresby, including another shallow quake early on Monday 5 March.

“The PNG Government has declared a state of emergency for the affected

regions of the Highlands in Hela, Southern Highlands, Western and Enga Provinces.

“ABM seeks to raise $50,000 for humanitarian aid so that vital supplies of food and water can be provided for the many people in need. We are in touch with the Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea who are assessing and preparing their emergency response.”

Archbishop Allan Migi has written a prayer for use following the disaster: God our Creator, we ask your blessing and comfort during this time of disaster We pray for all those whose lives are affected by earthquake through loss of life, loss of homes and livelihood.

We pray for the rescue workers as they work together to bring hope to communities torn apart by natural forces.

We pray for courage and strength to rebuild lives and move into the future.

Amen

Donations can be made via www.abmission.org

This year marks the centenary since the Anglican Board of Mission – Australia first began collecting donations for the Good Friday Gift in support of people in the Holy Land.

The ABM Good Friday Gift is an annual appeal which traditionally focuses on fund-raising for ABM’s partner, the Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East.

Today the Church is made up of four dioceses, three of them multi-national.

The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem covers Palestine, Israel, Lebanon Syria and Jordan. The Episcopal Diocese of Egypt, North Africa and the Horn of Africa is made up by Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Somalia. The Anglican Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf comprises Cyprus, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Yemen. The fourth Diocese is the Diocese of Iran.

The birth of the Good Friday Gift was set against the backdrop of World War 1, where key moments took place in the Middle East. The Sinai and

Palestine Campaign saw fighting take place between the British Empire and the Ottoman Empire, assisted by the German Empire. The British imperial forces were boosted by Australian diggers. Many families here will have relatives in their family trees who fought in Palestine between 1915 and 1918.

As fighting raged, ABM received a Cry from the Holy Land, an appeal on behalf of the ‘distressed and starving peoples of Palestine and Syria […] sent to elicit the sympathy and to enlist the cooperation of the Christians in Australia’.

This cry for help was promoted to ABM’s supporters in October 1917 and is the beginning of ABM’s relationship with the Church in the Holy Land.

Funds were distributed ‘to the poor and destitute irrespective of race or creed. Train loads of food, clothing and medical stores were got through …’

Thus it was that in 1918 the first monies sent by Australian Anglicans through ABM reached those in Palestine whose lives had been turned upside down by imperial conflict.

This tradition continues today through the generosity of many modern-day Australian Anglicans, enabling local church institutions, such as those run by EpiscoCare in Egypt, to serve those in need regardless of faith background.

ABM has supported the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza for many years, including during times of emergency.

The hospital’s value to the local community is immeasurable, helping Arabs whether they are Christian or Muslim, and providing a tangible witness to the love of Christ in action.

The Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East has seen many changes since those early days, with more of an indigenous church represented today. It is reassuring to know that Christians in the Middle East continue to serve God through faithful service, and that the ABM Good Friday Gift continues to fund their good deeds.

Find out more about the ABM Good Friday Gift Appeal at www.abmission. org/GoodFriday18

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COMMUNITY

Centenary of the ABM Good Friday Gift

COMMUNITY

St Saviour’s Do Fattle For “The Ashes” The setting was picturesque Tusmore Park on a warm summer’s evening in late December when a large proportion of the Glen Osmond parish prepared to do battle for the church picnic cricket match.

Gun star Tom was run out first ball – he’s not quite as quick as he used to be.

The oval was lined with spectators, some suggesting close to 100, as the umpire The Rev’d Dave McDougall called the teams in to start the match.

Nettie, in her 90s, showed she still has what it takes.

The event was designed to celebrate each other’s company over a picnic and offer a healthy activity for the church’s youth and their friends. Ray Correll, a champion for youth activities in the parish, led one side called Correll’s Corellas. The opposition was led by the sprightly, energetic Bishop Keith Rayner.

Initially, the Corellas were to be the youth and the Bishop’s XI were to be more mature parishioners, but after much bravado, each side boasting they were too strong for the other, the teams evened out a bit.

Sadly, the skill level didn’t quite emulate the Adelaide Oval battles as wickets tumbled consistently.

Taylor and Meaghan showed class with the bat. Young Tom proved to be a skilled bowler.

Adam put in a couple of quick overs which the veteran Clive refused to lay down and hit out lustily near the end.

Finally, it was the skipper himself coming in at the last wicket that led the Bishop’s XI to a last ball victory.

The crowd were delighted with the spectacle, although it is suspected they chatted, sipped, and nibbled more than they watched.

Fortunately for all, Craig and Virginia cooked the sausages to perfection and there were no “ashes” to be presented after all.

Quiet recruiting has already begun for this year’s teams as the rivalry grows.

New Exhibition Reconciles AnglicareSA’s Work with Christian Faith and Life St Peter’s Cathedral recently hosted a photographic poster display of the work of AnglicareSA. The series focussed on the diverse work of AnglicareSA through simple and captivating photographic images.

The nineteen posters seek to portray the Vision, Mission and Values of AnglicareSA together with twelve different service areas and invite a journey to discover the human dimensions of this work and its resonance with Christian faith and life.

AnglicareSA’s Director of Mission and Anglican Community, Peter Burke explains, “Each photograph is matched with a Bible verse to convey the deeper meaning of the Vision, Mission and Values of AnglicareSA as well as a range of direct service areas.”

support the work of AnglicareSA. The posters will be available for display in Anglican parishes and schools from April 2018.”

As for the genesis of the project, well the answer is simple, “The idea for the poster display began at the October 2017 Synod when Frank Nelson, Dean of St Peter’s Cathedral, suggested the idea of a visual display of AnglicareSA’s work in the Cathedral.”

“In picture and word, the posters reveal how loving service can speak of the reality of God in the Spirit of Christ through ordinary human lives.”

Any parishes interested in hosting the display in their parishes during the year can do so.

“The posters are accompanied by information on services and how to

Contact Peter Burke for more details pburke@anglicaresa.com.au

In the December 2017 edition of Guardian, we failed to credit Rev'd Stephen Daughtry for his wonderful photos taken at the service celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ordination of Rev'd Susan Straub, Rev'd Joan Claring-Bould and Sister Juliana SI to the priesthood. We would like to thank Stephen for his contribution to the piece.

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Nick van Ruth has stepped out in faith to take up the position of Young Graduates Mobiliser with City Bible Forum. The role exists to encourage the smooth transition from University to workplace for young graduates and to help them see themselves as on mission in their work context.

Nick, who worships at St Bart’s Norwood, was working as an engineer for a large manufacturing company in South Australia and experienced first-hand the benefits of being well equipped to share the gospel with co-workers, “I met with other workers in the city as part of an Evangelistic Prayer Team (EPT), to talk about work and to pray. That helped me to focus on the bigger picture and mobilised me to mission in the work place. It put me in the right mind-set to go to work to be a positive influence and to take steps to share the gospel.

“Working for a manufacturing company, I got to work a lot with the operators in production. I love working with them to solve the production issues that come up - I find their experience and insights incredibly valuable! They were great fun to work with too. “(But) Jesus captures my heart - he is the one who knows me, loves me and saved me. Everyone around me needs to hear

about him. My colleagues are the people I see the most of out of anyone! The people I’ve worked with have become some of my closest friends, and there is nothing I want more than to see them come to know Jesus. I believe that God has put me in my job for the people around me.”

City Bible Forum has been serving the business community since 1991 and works to make the discussion of life’s challenges and of the Bible as convenient and accessible as possible. Nick explains what drove him to step up out in faith to take on full time vocational ministry with City Bible Forum, “I’m passionate about helping Christians live out their faith in the workplace.”

“It is hard not to be overwhelmed with the stress and workload of working. As Christians, we are called to be different in how we conduct ourselves and interact with our colleagues and managers. Maintaining the bigger picture (and a positive attitude!) is tough when there is so much going on. That’s why I’ve loved being a part of an EPT at my work.

It has helped me focus on what is really important - standing out and standing up for Jesus, (and now I can help other) Christians in the workplace to be a positive influence and take steps to share the gospel.”

“I guess if I was an encouraging influence on other young workers in the workplace as they navigate as a Christian, that would be a positive impact for the kingdom.”

To find out how you can get involved with City Bible Forum go to citybibleforum.org

City Bible Forum: Season 2018 Blessed are the Wine & Cheese Makers Thursday 22 March 5.45pm-8.15pm Thank God SA is spoilt for choice when it comes to local produce. But do we? Koonowla Wines teams up with Udder Delights to match the right wine to the right cheese.

For the Love of God – Movie night and Panel Date: May (TBC) How the church is Better + worse than you ever imagined.

Christian history is full of violence, corruption and oppression.

So, would we be better off without Christianity? Does religion poison everything?

Take your Pastor to Breakfast Friday 15 June For many Christians, work lives and church lives are separated by a great Chasm. What if your pastor could better support or understand your workplace mission? Hear Federal Senator David Fawcett and his pastor Mike Stevens share practical tips on this.

Christmas in July with Michael Ramsden Tuesday 3 July Peace, goodwill to all. Is it a pipe dream globally? Enjoy a sumptuous winter Christmas Dinner while listening to international speaker Michael Ramsden on "Finding Peace".

Life@Work bitesize Conference Friday 21 September Following the success of last year’s Disruption Conference, for one night only, plunge into the murky waters of Christian Ethics.

Mike Baird on Leadership October/November (TBC) Authentic, fresh, oozing, integrity, former premier of NSW, Mike Baird explores our hopes for public leadership in a cynical age.

More information and Season Tickets available from citybibleforum.org/city/adelaide

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COMMUNITY

Nick Moves To Mobilise Young Graduates

COMMUNITY

Film Review: Mary Throughout cinematic history, there have been various waves of interest in capitalising on the rich content found in the Bible. From the Ten Commandments to The Passion of the Christ, filmmakers have utilised the material found in the 66 books of the beloved and maligned text from history.

Recent incarnations have come from Darren Aronofsky (Noah) and Ridley Scott (Exodus: Gods and Kings) who have put their reputations in the hands of these Old Testament characters, but in reinterpreting these familiar stories, they have been panned by critics and the Christians who are the target market of these films.

With the recent announcement of Mel Gibson’s follow up to The Passion of the Christ, there seems to be a resurgence in the characters within the New Testament. Paul, The Apostle of Christ, will hit theatres around Easter alongside the most intriguing venture for a big studio, Mary Magdalene. Directed by Academy-Award nominee Garth Davis (Lion) and cast with award-winning actors like Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix in the lead roles, this is worth viewing consideration. Especially with the lead character being recognisable but with little mention of who she is in within the biblical accounts. This viewpoint has the potential to be an unmitigated disaster or a fascinating study of this woman’s perspective on the details surrounding Jesus. The biggest challenge is determining what audience they are hoping to attract to this film.

The director, the writers and the producers did their due diligence to honour the heritage of the writings of the original authors and historians who would provide the cultural realities of the first century in the Middle East.

Beginning with a young woman who lives in a world of spiritual and social conflict in her fishing village, Mary

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Magdalene

“Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons.”

Mark 16:9 (Mara) starts to follow an unassuming and radical new teacher named Jesus of Nazareth (Phoenix). In her search for the answers to life, she becomes a follower within the community that supports a man who speaks with authority against the religious leaders of his day and provides hope for all who believe in his words. As Jesus’ fame and the opposition against his teachings grow, Mary and the others must decide how far they are willing to go to associate with these new views of the world of God. Upon arriving in Jerusalem, the extreme responses of the people and the religious leaders confront the reality of this movement and Mary’s faith.

Unlike many of the past Christian films that have included Mary Magdalene, this story contains more of a nuanced depiction of the female disciple and the Messiah. It needs to be said that this is not a Christian film, but an arthouse film that centres on some of the most important figures in Christian history. Christians who attend one of the screenings of Davis’ film may experience a bit of discomfort. Not because of heretical content, but with

Russelling Review: coming to terms with the idea that life continued around the Biblical accounts and other elements might have happened to these people in history.

The actual historical records of Mary do not have enough content to fill a full-length film, but that does not mean that Mary’s story should not be told.

The discomfort for those who know her story should be forced to go back and study what is known of this well-known woman and what is artistic license.

This production should be labelled as an artistic film due to the visual effects the stylised script. Opposed to a straightforward depiction of this look into history, Davis takes this narrative through a creative lens that tells as much about the era and geographic elements as the script. These visual elements complement the scripting that depicts a different perspective of the historical accounts without sacrificing the significance of the message. The writers deliver a ‘man of many sorrows’ messiah and one who provided groundbreaking treatment of women. The interactions between Mary and the key players in this story are

fictional but do prove that a multitude of conversations did occur that may not have been documented, but they do have the possibility of happening.

Theologians will pick apart the storyline and some may have an issue with the casting choices of the different individuals who follow Jesus. In this analysis, the hope would be that they will see the value of incorporating the most significant event in history into a modern construct.

Understanding the importance of getting the conversation started on the topic of Jesus and the impact that he continues to have on the world. Viewers

should not expect to gain every element of the Biblical story from this film, but be challenged to explore it more indepth by engaging with the historical documents that are readily available to them. The key objective for Christians to consider from this film is to get the conversation started on the subject of Jesus and Mary. Not expecting the film to do the heavy lifting of evangelism, but to encourage people to engage with the subject matter. The challenge will be to work through some of the artistic license taken to get to the main point of the Biblical message.

After seeing the film, many may find it difficult to determine what is actual history and what is fiction.

Mary Magdalene delivers a quality of storytelling with a respectful treatment of history. It will cause discomfort for many, but in amongst the uneasiness, the challenge will be for all to go and read the actual accounts of Mary, the disciples and Jesus. Many may claim that this a familiar historical character but may find that they may not know as much as they thought and will be pleasantly surprised by the reintroduction. reviews written by Russell Matthews based on a five star rating. http://russellingreveiws.blogspot.com.au

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