Skip to main content

Guardian June 2014

Page 1

JUNE 2014

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF ADELAIDE

Faith schools in our

INSIDE: The Emmaus journey of ecumenism

1


G

THE ANGLICAN GUARDIAN Published by the Diocese of Adelaide

Edited by Katrina McLachlan THE ANGLICAN GUARDIAN Phone: (08) 8305 9348 Fax: (08)of8305 9399 Published by the Diocese Adelaide Email: Edited by Katrina McLachlan communications@adelaide.anglican.com.au Phone: (08) 8305 9348 www.adelaide.anglican.com.au Fax: (08) 8305 9399 Email: Layout and design by WOW! Creative communications@adelaide.anglican.com.au Phone: (08) 8362 1533 www.adelaide.anglican.com.au www.wowcreative.com.au Layout by Writing by Ashleigh Knott Benjamin van Caspel 0478Edwards 082 114 Photography Phone: by Brenton www.caspeldesign.com Phone: 0419 815 443 www.storieswelltold.com.au Photography by Brenton Edwards

Phone:Subscriptions: 0419 815 443 Diocesan Office Subscriptions: 18 King William Rd, NorthDiocesan AdelaideOffice 5006 Phone: (08) 8305 18 King William Rd, North Adelaide 9350 5006 Phone: (08) 8305 9350 Advertising enquiries contact: Loan Leane Advertising enquiries contact: Phone: (08)Loan 7007Leane 9020 loan@joiecreative.com.au Phone: (08) 7007 9020 loan@joiecreative.com.au Printed by Lane Print & Post Phone: (08)Print 8179&9900 Printed by Lane Post

Phone: is (08) 8179 9900 The Guardian a member of The Australasian Religious Press Association The Guardian is a member of The Australasian Religious Press Association

STUDY IN BLACK

LOOKING ByBACK Paul Wilkins

THE CHALLENGE (OPPORTUNITY) OF CONFLICT

David Thornton-Wakeford

Looking back, Looking back, do you see some daft moments you can’t change a thing and when you must have totally ‘the benefit of hindsight’ lost the plot and had a is poor consolation for brain freeze? your mistakes. No one expecting to swap stories Cradling white chrysanthemums, Looking back, Looking back: or entertain strangers unawares, an unattended traveller do you wish you’d had the insight what’s the point? a private from another time and place, to know you were barking All communication you’ll really getpreferred at best up the wrong tree is a sore neck or at worst in a Facebook to the world, anxiously joined our journey. without a prayer? a pillar of salt. Looking back, Busily surrounded were you too impatient by hand-held devices, watched to see the big picture; driven to distraction like beetles in digital boxes, with fleeting fancies? dialling tortured fragments

So whether a messenger of peace or an angel of death, remains forever under the veil.

of the Ode to Joy, Ann Nadge is The Guardian’s poetry poetry editor. Submissions of 20 lines orlines less are welcome. Ann Nadge is The Guardian’s editor. Submissions of 20 or less are welcome. Send toSend the general editorial email address. to the general editorial email address.

The joy of learning

INVESTIGATOR COLLEGE 2 Glendale Grove, Goolwa. Ph: 8555 5755

ST. PETER’S COLLEGE Hackney Road, St. Peter’s. Ph: 8362 3451

PEDARE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 2-30 Surrey Farm Drive, Golden Grove. Ph: 8280 1700

ST. PETER’S COLLEGIATE GIRLS’ SCHOOL Stonyfell Road, Stonyfell. Ph: 8334 2200

PULTENEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL 190 South Terrace, Adelaide. Ph: 8216 5555 ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOL 22 Smith Street, Walkerville. Ph: 8168 5555 ST. COLUMBA COLLEGE President Avenue, Andrew’s Farm. Ph: 8254 0600

ANGLICAN SCHOOLS... the right choice Enquiries: Mr. Jim Raw, Anglican Schools Liaison Officer

218 King WIlliam Rd, North Adelaide 5006 Phone: 8305 9349

ST. JOHN’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL 29 Gloucester Avenue, Belair. Ph: 8278 2233

ST. PETER’S WOODLANDS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 39 Partridge Street, Glenelg. Ph: 8295 4317 TRINITY COLLEGE Alexander Avenue, Evanston South. Ph: 8522 0666 WALFORD ANGLICAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 316 Unley Road, Hyde Park. Ph: 8272 6555 WOODCROFT COLLEGE Bains Road, Morphett Vale. Ph: 8322 2333

Archbishop Jeffrey Driver

contents

4 4.

FA ITH The 16th General Synod Meets in Adelaide

6. The Emmaus Journey of Ecumenism

One of the toughest things we can deal with in life is serious conflict.

In human community we cannot escape it. So I take some comfort in the fact that Jesus himself spent so much time right in the middle of it.

We love it when it is ritualised in sport; when the Adelaide Oval heaves with the emotion of a “Showdown” and our heroes contest the day.

Take another look at a Gospel like Mark. Soon after its introduction of Jesus it shows him plunged into conflict with religious authorities; about healing a paralysed man, about eating with tax-collectors and sinners, about the Sabbath, and healing on the Sabbath (Mark 2:1 – 3:6).

But in real life it is much harder. In personal relationships it is so easy for conflict to turn sour and take on a life of its own. Families can harbour a division for decades. Lovers can become estranged and embittered. In politics, where the conflict of ideas and ideologies is essential for the creative working of democracy, so often what we see is aggressive, unnecessarily personal, and far too often less than creative. The rambunctious conflict style of a parliamentary question time might be rare in the Church, but what we often do is equally destructive. Under the guise of love and community, we can avoid and suppress real differences and difficulties. When that does not work, our conflicts will often be worked out indirectly, or once removed. A deep rift in a parish might fasten onto an argument about the placement of a piece of furniture, the choice of music, or who controls the keys to the parish hall! Such skirmishes will continue, and with disproportionate emotion, unless the deeper issue is brought to the fore. We all know the damage that conflict poorly handled can do. It leaves the defeated damaged. It reduces collaboration and drains energy. It can kill an organisation. But then without conflict organisations also die. Conflict handled well opens up possibilities, clarifies directions, renews and gives vitality.

The conflict stories continue relentlessly through the Gospel until we see in the journey of Jesus to the Cross that conflict can be an expression of love. Have you ever pressed ‘send’ on a sharp and reactive email only to regret it later? The rapid change and immediate communications of the world in which we live ramps up for us all, the intensity of conflict. We cannot avoid it. The challenge is to handle it well.

When Jesus gave his disciples the great commandment of love he was not giving a free pass out of the struggles of conflict. But he was telling us that we needed to learn to do it and do it well; so well, in fact that the world might believe. This is a challenge we cannot avoid if our Church is to grow.

+Jeffrey

8.

The First to Give a Helping Hand

10 MISSION 10. It is a Different World 12. Fondly remembering The Rev’d John Henry Stephenson 13. Blessing of a Musical Education

18 FOCUS 18. Liturgy and God’s Grandeur 19. Nurturing Essential Partnerships 20. Feeding the Historical Soul

15 SCHOOLS 15. Pilgrimage into Living Tradition 16. Anglican Schools Coming Together 18. Education in the Paddock 20. A Vibrant Collision of Cultures

21 COMMUNIT Y 21. Books 22. God Words 24. Local, National International News 26. People and Places 31. Advertisements

On the cover: Anglican Schools Service. Image by Brenton Edwards.

3


F AITH

The 16th

GENERAL SYNOD

meets in Adelaide Dr Baden Teague (BA honours, BSc, PhD) is a long time member of the Synod of the Adelaide Diocese. Formerly an elected Senator for South Australia in the Australian Parliament, 1978-96, he is an elected member representing Adelaide in the 16th General Synod.

The Anglican Church of Australia is a diverse and unique community consisting of 23 dioceses. While there are many dioceses in New South Wales and in Victoria there is only one for the Northern Territory and one for Tasmania.

4

and the General Synod Treasurer, Allan Perryman are well-versed in the workings of General Synods but I have only been a member of the General Synod on the two occasions it has been in Adelaide.

South Australia has three dioceses; Adelaide, Willochra and The Murray. Every diocese has its own Synod responsible for the governance of the Church in that region that meets once or twice a year. But once every four years the General Synod, which concerns all Anglicans across Australia, is held in a different location.

Taking part in this unique event will be 13 members of the Adelaide diocese. They are our diocesan bishop, The Most Rev’d Dr Jeffrey Driver, six elected clergy – Ven David Bassett, Rev’d David Covington-Groth, Rt Rev’d Tim Harris, Ven Paul Mitchell, Rev’d Michael Russell, Rev’d Peter Sandeman – and six elected laity – Hon David Bleby, Allan Perryman, Emma Riggs, Wendy Jeffrey, Keith Stephens and Baden Teague.

Responsible for the order and good government of the Anglican Church of Australia, General Synod is a time for much discussion and debate.

General Synod begins on Sunday 29th June at 5.30pm with an opening service of Holy Communion at St Peter’s Cathedral. This is a public service that everyone is welcome to. The sermon will be given by the Primate, The Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall, Archbishop of Brisbane.

This is only the second time that General Synod has met in Adelaide, the other being our 12th General Synod back in 1998. Some of our Adelaide representatives have attended many General Synods. Archbishop Jeffrey Driver, our Chancellor, David Bleby,

While this will mark the beginning of General Synod, preparations began months ago when all involved received the Five Books containing this Synod’s proposed legislation for debate and resolution, and many reports, including the Standing Committee Report and the Financial Report.

Bright and early on Monday morning five days of meeting from 9am to 9pm each day will kick off. Only Wednesday evening and after midday on Friday will members have spare time. For five days Memorial Hall at St Peter’s College will be a buzz with lively conversations. The Chapel, the Dacosta Dining Hall (for lunch and dinner each day) the Big School Room (for information and elections) and twenty classrooms (for small group daily discussions on “matters central to the future of the Church”) will be home for all General Synod members. And faith reflection has not been left off the agenda with Bible Studies and services of worship and prayer included in the sessions. General Synod is like a parliament. In this case it is the parliament for the national Anglican Church of Australia. Church law, the rules and the disciplines are discussed and decisions are made. These decisions are referred to the 23 dioceses to consider in their own synods if the decisions concern “the ritual, ceremonial or discipline of the Church”. There are safeguards to ensure proper dialogue that respects the integrity of every individual diocese. Remember that the Anglican communion of churches is not a top-down Church, not a hierarchical church; nor world-wide is it a single, global

church. We are looser, more dispersed, more like a family of dioceses. It is the diocese that has ministry initiative. Our dioceses nevertheless share the same Lord, the same Gospel, the same Christian ministry. We pray together and we live and work together. In 2014 we are making comprehensive provision for the use of iPads and other personal computers to distribute papers, to clarify agendas and motions, to register formal questions and to circulate responsible answers. Every day General Synod members will use the wireless network at St Peter’s College and there will be computer specialists to give us advice ensuring all our communications are clear and efficient. Nevertheless, like all modern parliaments, there is no escaping the spoken presentation of many speeches. These speeches will need to be in good order, but the most effective speeches will be delivered with knowledge, persuasion and passion. We are Christians alive in the Holy Spirit, moved by the Gospel, moved for faith, hope and love, moved for justice and peace, and moved for engagement with the world about us. Computers these days help us in our tasks but support at the General Synod will also be provided by volunteers from

our Anglican schools and our Adelaide parishes. Hundreds of General Synod members will need to quickly understand the transport arrangements, the geography of our venue, how to make things work, how and where to vote, meal arrangements and even help with parts of the business agenda. Our trained volunteers will be vital in providing this help. Remember all the volunteers who worked day and night at the Sydney Olympics! Our Adelaide-based volunteers will be among the welcomers, the friendly faces, the practical problemsolvers of the General Synod. Some of our volunteers will be specialists in areas such as media liaison or vote counting. A brief discussion cannot begin to summarize the Five Books that describe hundreds of precisely worded business items for this year’s General Synod. There are 18 “Bills” including, for example, one Bill that proposes an amendment to our Matrimony Canon (1981) to no longer require at least one of the persons to be married in the Church to be baptised. The reason for this proposed change is to reclaim marriage as an ordinance for all people including those who are not yet baptised, thus allowing “the church to speak to the world”.

Apart from Bills, there will be proposals concerning the world-wide Anglican Communion, expressing Appreciation, about Ecumenical-Interfaith priorities, about Finance, about Liturgy and Worship, about Ministry and Mission, about Professional Standards and about Public Affairs. In addition, we will receive, question and discuss Reports about Church Law, Doctrine, Aboriginal Ministry, Refugees, the Anglican Board of Mission, Anglicare, the Women’s Network, Bush Church Aid, and much more.

As Anglicans here in South Australia we welcome this General Synod meeting. We welcome the hundreds of Church representatives from every part of Australia. Please pray for us all. The sessions of General Synod are open for all to attend by sitting in the public gallery upstairs at the Memorial Hall of St Peter’s College .

5


F AITH

A global view for the SACC

Ms Geraldine Hawkes, Executive Officer, South Australian Council of Churches Several South Australians, including Bishop John Stead and Rev’d Dr Gregory Stephens SSM (Willochra Diocese), joined me and participated in the Third International Receptive Ecumenism Conference at Fairfield University in Connecticut, USA from the 9th to the 12th of June. The theme was Receptive Ecumenism in an International Perspective: Contextual Ecclesial Learning. SA Council of Churches was named as a co-sponsor of the conference in acknowledgement of the Churches in South Australia’s, through SACC, immense contribution which have been made to Receptive Ecumenism both in learning about and practically applying it. I was thrilled to be on the panel for the Conference Opening Session. As the only woman and layperson, as well as the only panellist with specific responsibilities at the local level, it was a great honour to be involved. The three other panel members were The Most Rev’d Sir David Moxon, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Representative to the Holy See, Director of the Anglican Centre in Rome, and Co-Chair of the Anglican – Roman Catholic International Commission, Rev’d Dr John Gibaut, Director of the Commission on Faith and Order for the World Council of Churches, and Rev’d Anthony Currer, The Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity. Undergirding and drawing me more deeply into the journey of ecumenism is a great love for my sisters and brothers in Christ. When I meet them in their woundedness, I grieve with and for them; when I encounter them in their beauty, I delight with and for them. At this international conference, together with the other Australians who are participating, we discovered more about how our churches can be reflective of the way and unity of Christ, especially in our systems, structures and practices, and so provide a seamless sign of love, justice and peace in our world. SA Council of Churches will host a local mini-conference on Receptive Ecumenism on the 17th and 18th of October, and plans are in place for contributions from local and overseas participants in the international conference. My hope is that people from across the Churches will gather in October to continue the journey of healing, from within as well as across, so that we might deepen our practice of looking on one another and on our world with the same loving gaze that God has for all creation.

6

SACC Executive Officer Geraldine Hawkes

THE EMMAUS JOURNEY OF

ecumenism by KATRINA MCLACHLAN

Ecumenism is travelling through a period of exploration and significant change. There is no doubt that the Anglican Church prides itself on being ‘ecumenical’ in nature – seeing itself as part of the ‘whole household’ of God within each local community as well as throughout the world. A strong commitment to ecumenical dialogue and overcoming impediments to fellowship with Christians of other traditions is central to the work of the Anglican Church in Australia. Much effort is put into developing and strengthening lines of communication between and within Christian faiths. The Anglican Church of Australia is a member of a number of ecumenical organisations including the World Council of Churches, the Christian Conference of Asia, and the National Council of Churches in Australia.

Currently there are also discussions with the Roman Catholic Church, the Uniting Church, the Lutheran Church and the Orthodox Church. Archbishop Jeffrey Driver has been a long standing member of The General Synod Ecumenical Relations Commission (GSERC) and is currently the Convenor. Also on the GSERC are Archbishop Glenn Davies, Bishop Tim Harris, Bishop John Parkes, Bishop Doug Stephens, Rev’d Jane Lee Barker, Rev’d Erica Mathieson and Ms Alison Preston. Meeting annually for the past three years, highlights of ecumenical conversations have included the re-establishment of the Anglican-Lutheran Dialogue and the Anglican-UCA Dialogue. Archbishop Driver speaks frequently about ecumenism and believes like churches, the ecumenical movement has been shaped by its own history and culture. “The challenge for ecumenism is similar to the challenge facing churches – responding creatively to individual history and culture, without being imprisoned by it.” “The modern ecumenical movement cannot deny the history that has shaped it but we must ensure ecumenism can live creatively against this background and can find new ways of expression in the modern world.”

A new round of the Anglican-Lutheran Dialogue commenced in 2013, and has met twice to outline possible directions.

constantly testing itself against the mission of the Church in the world.

A new body, the Anglican-Lutheran International Coordinating Committee, the successor to the Anglican-Lutheran International Commission (ALIC), which has received a mandate from the Anglican Consultative Council, had its first meeting in Finland in September last year.

“In the secular West, most of our churches are struggling to adapt to a shift from privileged centrality to the missional margins. We are struggling to learn mission afresh, particularly among those underaged-forty Australians so disconnected from traditional and institutional expressions of faith,” the Archbishop says.

The Right Rev’d Dr Tim Harris is one of five Anglican representatives to ALIC which in its report to the Anglican Consultative Council, ALIC wrote:

“Since the Church’s context is always a mission context, the reception of churches by each other must be an essentially missiological journey.

“In our work we have discovered a number of theological topics which require further exploration. However, we consider that the priority at this time for Anglicans and Lutherans at the international level is to promote closer relations at all levels. Thus we do not recommend at this time the establishment of an ALIC IV but rather a Co-ordinating Committee.”

“For ecumenism in Australia to find new energy, I suggest, it will be at the missional edge, where the church engages the world, in joint experiment, in shared risk, in common disappointment and in mutual learning. It will do well for us to remember that when Jesus prayed that his disciples might be one “that the world might believe”, he also uttered these words: “I have sent them into the world”.

Interaction with the WCC mission statement ‘Together Towards Life: Mission and Evangelism in Changing Landscapes’ is expected to bring further focus to this dialogue. Whether it is Anglican-Lutheran dialogue or conversations with another church, Archbishop Driver says effective ecumenical expression will need to be

“The Emmaus journey of ecumenism: is a journey of openness, conversation and disclosure; a journey upon which we dare to travel lightly laden; a journey into the risk of mission; a journey from death and grief into surprising life; a journey which one day, pray God, finds us surprised to be breaking bread together with our Lord.”

7


F AITH

the first

TO GIVE A HELPING HAND

Though it is unquestionably a topic that is difficult to talk about, chances are you and many people you know, have been affected by suicide. After a first suicide attempt, individuals and families can be shocked, scared, and they often don’t know what to do or where to turn for help. A pilot program funded by AnglicareSA called A Cry For Help has been developed to connect people dealing with a first suicide attempt and their families with support services. A Cry For Help is being run in partnership with the Flinders Medical Centre Emergency Department and the hope is that it will provide individuals and families with a toolkit of what to expect and where to seek and receive help. AnglicareSA CEO The Rev’d Peter Sandeman says that while there is lot of support for people in the community, it can be a difficult time to navigate through. “AnglicareSA’s trained case workers will be there to guide people through those weeks after the first suicide attempt, in that period of high stress and distress.” “A Cry for Help will help people to understand that they don’t have to do everything by themselves. “This program resonates so strongly because suicide doesn’t discriminate,” The Rev’d Sandeman says. “Whether we talk about it openly or not I think all of us have either been touched personally by suicide, or known someone close to us who has been affected.” Adelaide brothers, Simon and Richard Bryant, have proudly thrown their support behind the program, having personally been touched by suicide. In 2009 Simon and Richard’s vibrant and optimistic mother, who had embraced life, took her own life.

8

“I know a lot of people want to deny it ever occurred but we didn’t want to do that,” Simon says.

The Rev’d Sandeman says A Cry for Help case workers will assess what support individuals and their families might need.

“But you need to find a balance between denial and being overt.”

“People might need help with communication skills – telling their employer that they need to take time away from work, they might need financial counselling – we know that money worries cause families enormous stress, or they might feel overwhelmed as parents – and we can put them in touch with our parenting programs,” The Rev’d Sandeman says.

The Archbishop’s Appeal inaugural Cathedral Banquet was held in May in St Peter’s Cathedral to highlight the A Cry for Help program and develop conversations around the trauma and stress of suicide. “We believe that by working together to develop the A Cry for Help program we can make a difference during some of the most difficult moments of a person’s life,” The Most Rev’d Dr Jeffrey Driver, Archbishop of Adelaide, says “It’s often said that a suicide attempt can be ‘a cry for help’ so giving our pilot program that name provides the opportunity to highlight the desperate need that individuals and families find themselves in after a first suicide attempt.” AnglicareSA hope to run the A Cry for Help program alongside their already existing Living Beyond Suicide program, which supports families and friends in the days and weeks after a person has taken their own life. A Cry For Help will be a free, holistic approach that aims to provide a place of support for a period of around six weeks. It is hoped that it will also build resilience and create strong support structures. After a first suicide attempt it is the practical issues that are often the most difficult to deal with. Things such as telling an employer you need time off, looking after your children and financial issues. Richard Bryant knows all too well the challenges of supporting a family member after a suicide attempt. “I made Mum promise me she wouldn’t do it again. But it came down to a chef and a builder trying to look after her,” Richard says. “They were extremely frustrating and difficult times. You’re trying to keep life going and pick up the pieces at the same time, you feel like you’re on your own.”

“To prevent them feeling isolated we can help them connect with their community and other programs we run and where there is a need that isn’t met, we’ll seek to fill it.” While the A Cry for Help program will provide support immediately after an attempt the long term hope is that it will also prevent future attempts. “Working directly with individuals and families, AnglicareSA will help to build resilience with the ultimate aim of preventing future suicide attempts,” Archbishop Driver says. “Lives are transformed all the time in St Peter’s Cathedral so it was fitting to launch the A Cry for Help pilot program in such magnificent surroundings. “With the support of the broader community, AnglicareSA has the power to transform many lives through A Cry for Help.”

anglicaresa.com.au/cry-help For support and further information about mental health issues or suicide please access the following services: THE HUNTER INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH: www.himh.org.au LIFELINE: 13 11 14 THE SANE HELPLINE: 1800 18 SANE (7263) BEYOND BLUE: 1300 22 4636

The Archbishop’s Appeal and its Committee have raised millions of dollars for important capital works and innovative social support services. At its heart is a group of volunteers and supporters with a desire to assist vulnerable South Australians wherever possible and to facilitate personal and corporate relationships with AnglicareSA in its important and strategic work. It was a great thrill for our Committee to plan and assist with this year’s Cathedral Banquet at St Peter’s Cathedral. The Cathedral was breathtaking in its transformation. A busy team of workers removed the pews and other important fixtures to allow the catering staff to change the space into an exquisite dining venue. Within 24 hours after the banquet all had been restored and it was business as usual for the Cathedral. It was important to gather together in the physical heart of our Diocese to launch A Cry for Help. The Cathedral is an important place of worship, ministry and reflection. It’s a place of gathering and conversation. The Cathedral means different things to different people, however I am confident that all of our guests, whilst in this sacred space, could sense the caring spirit of AnglicareSA, and health professionals from Flinders Medical Centre, for people who are dealing with the complex results of attempted suicide. As Chairman of The Archbishop’s Appeal, I would like to personally thank everyone who donated their time, funds and services in order for AnglicareSA to commence this vital program. A special and personal thanks goes to our friends Richard and Simon Bryant, The State Opera Company, Principal Sponsor, Graham and Sally Fraenkel from Laser Vision SA, and Sir Eric and Lady Neil for their ongoing support over the years. In addition, our Committee would like to thank Rev’d Frank Nelson, Dean of St Peter’s, and his staff for their generous hospitality and for welcoming us and our guests.

Andrew Marshall

9


MISSION

It is a DIFFERENT

WORLD Tuesday, 20 May, was a great evening. The Anglican Board of Mission (ABM) Provincial Committee hosted a reception at Saint Andrew’s Walkerville to listen to Meagan Morrison speak about her work in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Nearly 50 people gathered in Saint Andrew’s Hall to hear a most insightful address. Meagan reminded us of the changes in the relationship between the Anglican Church of PNG (ACPNG) and the Australian Church (through ABM) that have taken place in the last 30 years. ABM no longer sends missionaries to PNG, it instead supports programmes which are initiated by ACPNG. The Church there decides its own priorities and timetable. ABM’s role is to support and encourage the Church there in its many different programmes. Meagan is employed by ABM as the PNG Program Coordinator and Partner Liaison Officer and is based in Port Moresby, the capital city of PNG. Her role is to represent ABM to the Church in PNG and to represent ACPNG to the Australian Church via ABM. She keeps ABM informed of developments and needs as well as offering advice and encouragement to ACPNG.

Meagan spoke of the remarkable variety of activities occurring within ACPNG – community building, health, education, evangelism, church support and being a prophetic voice in society. All of these activities are undertaken by the local Church and the method of undertaking them is determined by ACPNG. The Church is no longer a ‘daughter’ Church of Australia; it is now a ‘partner’ Church. Just as PNG is no longer an

10

Australian Colony, rather an independent nation, so ACPNG is a member Church of the Anglican Communion of equal standing with the other churches of our communion. Clergy, teachers, health workers and church administrators are Melanesians employed directly by ACPNG.

ACPNG still needs support and encouragement from the Australian Church.

Chair of the ABM Provincial Committee, Bishop David McCall, reflects on some very special visitors to South Australia. revealed how concerned all the churches are about this matter and how the pressure of a growing population and shortage of land pose some very difficult issues. The Provincial Committee was delighted to host the gathering and was grateful to God for the insights we were given in a lively and fascinating address.

ABM GLOBAL HEALTH PROJECTS Families and children will benefit immensely under the Anglican Board of Mission’s new international health projects. In May, the ABM announced they are providing aid for those living in remote communities in Gaza, South Sudan and China. Often, people living in rural locations find it difficult to maintain their health as the infrastructure does not allow them to easily visit medical facilities. These three new projects aim to combat the struggles many families face.

ABM will establish a community health program at the Al Ahli-Arab hospital in Gaza. The program will help malnourished children under five with a three month nutrition plan, follow up visits and health education. In South Sudan a health clinic will be completed with the help of ABM allowing locals access to treatment without lengthy walks through rough terrain. HIV care and support groups will be established in China to decrease the stigma attached to those living with the

infection, as well as providing support and health check ups. Agricultural training opportunities will also allow sufferers to feel less excluded from the community. ABM has called on the public for funding to support and further develop the projects. “To support these three projects, $80,000 is needed,” ABM Program Director, Dr Julianne Stewart, says. “Your support will make a huge difference to the lives of people living with poor health.”

It is largely a rural church and the majority of its adherents have very little money. Although the stipends of teachers and health workers are met by the Government, much of the other support (equipment, teaching material, maintenance, etc.) has to be found by the church. In addition, the Church has to provide for the training and payment of clergy and evangelists, for supporting its bishops and the administration of the church at a diocesan and national level. While each diocese is responsible for its own budget and raises what it can locally, the need for support from outside is still essential for the church to fulfil its mission effectively. Meagan spoke movingly of the many ways in which churches of different traditions work together. In some parts, where there are very few Anglicans, church members receive Holy Communion at the hands of Roman Catholic, Lutheran or United clergy. ACPNG is a key player in ecumenical work within PNG, including the PNG Council of Churches and the Australian Aid (DFAT) funded Church Partnership Program (CPP). The churches co-operate closely in raising issues with the government and seeking to call the government to account for the way in which issues are dealt with. Two examples given were the way in which the government and mining companies are called to account for the way they treat the environment and for the way they relate to local communities. The second example given was in response to a question about the treatment of asylum seekers. Meagan

Left to right: Bishop David McCall with ABM members Meagan Morrison, Brad Chapman and Greg Henderson.

11


Blessing of a musical education

F OCUS

by ASHLEIGH KNOTT The Adelaide Anglican community will be blessed by a group of rising stars in August when the Fieri Consort lands in Adelaide to begin their debut international tour as guests of the St Peter’s Cathedral Music Foundation. Having trained as part of the Genesis Sixteen, a prestigious program for young, talented singers run by The Sixteen Choir, the ensemble banded together in 2012 to form the Fieri Consort. Their visit to Adelaide will be a precious opportunity for our own singers to learn from the group’s elite musical education. And it’s certainly going to be embraced by many.

F O N D LY R E M E M B E R I N G

The Rev’d John Henry Stephenson Close friend and colleague, Father Keith Brice, reflects on the blessing of the life of The Rev’d John Henry Stephenson. The year was 1982, I had just completed my first curacy of two years at the Church of St Margaret, Woodville and began my second at the Church of St Jude, Brighton. It was at this time that I formally met the Reverend John Henry Stephenson, then Rector of the Parish of Brighton. I spent the best part of 1982 working alongside John Henry before he left to become parish priest of the Church of St Oswald, Parkside and Director of Post Ordination Training. That time spent with John Henry, Denise and the Stephenson family was especially important for me and was exactly what I needed. To be loved, accepted and supported by an extraordinary family and mentored by a gifted and experienced parish priest comfortable and confident in his own skin was precisely what I required as I was still coming to an understanding of what it is to be a part of the ministerial priesthood. In our first formal conversation as priest and curate John Henry asked me “What do you think you are good at?” I cannot now recall how I answered but can remember thinking about the motive for the enquiry. I was soon to find out because John Henry

12

encouraged me to exercise and practise in areas of ministry in which I felt comfortable and effective in order to grow in confidence so as to address other areas of ministry with a growing self-assurance. John Henry seemed to adopt this approach with anyone who would listen and I witnessed the fruits of this in the parish of Brighton at that time. In 1982 John Henry completed his formal studies of psychotherapy within the discipline of Transactional Analysis, this required John Henry to accumulate so many hours working with clients, usually referred by medical practitioners. I discovered over time that I could determine as to what John Henry was doing at certain points throughout a normal day by the shirt he was wearing, clerical shirt for the priest, and Hawaiian shirt for the psychotherapist. He managed to synthesize the two vocations with adept sensitivity. John Henry was an amazing and passionate entrepreneur. David Stephenson likened him to an ecclesiastical Arthur Daly (from the ‘Minder’ series of the 1970s). Pete made the observation that John Henry

was always very generous “with other people’s stuff!” He was still endeavouring to make things happen, even from the High Dependency Ward of the Wakefield Street Hospital where we discovered he had managed to contact and speak to the appropriate person at the SPC factory in Victoria to suggest that they put ring pulls on their smaller tins of fruit so Anglicans across Australia could purchase them for distribution out of Anglicare centres. For John Henry it was all about faith, family, food, wine, music and friends. Throughout his life he had unwavering and unconditional love and support for all of his beloved family members. As many will recall he was unashamed to express emotion and at the same time maintain composure. John Henry’s insight and ability to discern the giftedness of those around him has been a blessing in every community of faith he has touched. He taught me to take the ‘but’ out of my conversation with others and rather exchange it with an ‘and’ – always the minster of encouragement! I thank God for the life of John Henry Stephenson.

The highlight of the tour for young students and singers will be the School Concert when the Consort will share their knowledge and training. One of the schools who will be involved in the educational session is St Peter’s Girls. Head of Music, Sally Rounsevell, will escort 50 students from Australia and New Zealand to the event at the Cathedral. “The venue is very special and hearing such a high quality group will be a wonderful experience,” Sally says. “Their diverse range of music is something the students are looking forward to. Many of our girls sing more contemporary styles so this will be very educational for them.” St Peter’s Cathedral Canon Precentor and member of the Music Foundation, The Rev’d Jenny Wilson, is thrilled that the Fieri Consort will be sharing their knowledge with Adelaide school students. “The Fieri Consort are passing on their knowledge and hopefully we will be able to then continue the education process,” Jenny says. “This is the way education should work in the true sense.”

The Fieri Consort School Concert will be held on Thursday 14th of August at St Peter’s Cathedral. While it’s undoubtedly a huge opportunity for Adelaide’s choral music community to be exposed to such high-quality international talent, the excitement goes both ways.

“It’s equally delightful to them,” Director of Music at St Peter’s Cathedral Music Foundation, Leonie Hempton, says. “You might think we’re very much on the receiving end, but they are delighted to be spending time with us because it’s a great opportunity for them to tour.” It was a performance in London’s landmark church St Martin-in-the-Fields that first inspired Jenny Wilson to bring the Fieri Consort to Australia. “I saw them and spent the entire concert thinking ‘wouldn’t it be fantastic to bring them out to share their music with our musical community,’” Jenny says. “The Music Foundation was wonderfully supportive and we decided to bring these positive, young and highly talented people to Australia so they could be part of our community. “Everyone loved the idea and the plans have blossomed since then. “They’ll live in our community for a week. They’ll sing the Sunday services and there will be some social events. “They will be a choir in residence, really – just to have that inspiring presence I think will be a very positive thing,” Jenny says.

The Fieri Consort is also looking forward to being immersed in the sound of our mix gender choir – something that is still relatively uncommon in the UK. With the theme of promoting musical excellence, our local students will learn performance skills, repertoire, singing techniques and learn about the experience of touring internationally. Though it’s not only school students who will learn from the Fieri Consort. “One of the things I try to get through to our choir is the business of singing music from the heart, not just singing the notes on the page but making it live, and I think they’ll be able to see the Fieri Consort really make the music live,” Leonie says. Experiencing the Fieri Consort perform will no doubt bring great inspiration to all who hear them. ‘Fieri Consort in Concert’ will be held at the St Peter’s Cathedral on Friday, 15th of August at 7.30pm. Full price tickets $35, concession $28, student $15. Book at bass. net.au. Further information can be found at www.stpeters-cathedral.org.au

13


S CHOOLS

Pilgrimage into Living On Monday 30th June a group of Year 10 students, staff and volunteers from St Columba College will be embarking on a pilgrimage to the United Kingdom to explore the religious sites and history of the college’s Anglican and Catholic traditions. We will have opportunities to tour and participate in liturgies in a number of significant places of worship including Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral and Canterbury Cathedral. We will also visit the small Scottish island of Iona where Columba, the patron saint of our college, funded a monastery. It will be a wonderful opportunity for the

TR ADITION

students to immerse themselves in a range of religious contexts and to absorb the atmosphere of busy city environments, isolated communities and places of worship that were established thousands of years before Christianity, such as Stonehenge. These opportunities will enable the students to gain a clearer understanding of the foundations on which our college was established and to experience worship in buildings that have been sites of religious faith for centuries. Gaining an insight into the turbulent history of our Anglican and Catholic denominations engenders a deeper understanding of the similarities and differences that the students encounter in their academic and spiritual life and will enable them to make informed decisions about their faith. Our College mission statement expresses the desire to develop within our students a close relationship with God, and a major focus of the pilgrimage is that

by JANE BAILEY of exploring individual spirituality. There will be numerous opportunities to explore connection with God, both in formal and informal settings and through participation in prayer, worship and ritual. The students’ increased knowledge from visiting sacred sites and investigating theological understandings of Christian tradition goes hand in hand with the more spiritual experience; the two cannot be separated and each enhances understanding and expression of the other. The pilgrimage experience has already begun for the students – for many it began on the day they wrote their application to go on the pilgrimage, and for others their journey had already started in their private seeking and exploration of faith. A more focussed approach began for all of us when we spent the day together at Port Noarlunga. We contemplated the nature of being on pilgrimage as a community yet also undertaking a pilgrimage as individuals. The students were encouraged to consider that, even though we will see the same sights and take part in the same worship, each of the participants will come away with their own understanding and interpretation of the experience depending on what the encounter evokes in them. We were graced with beautiful weather and the chance to stroll on the beach – getting to know each other in such a stunning context was in itself a blessing. The pilgrims have already undertaken the opportunity to share the focus of their journey with some of the younger students in the Primary School. They took part in the St Columba Day liturgy, acting out the story of St Columba as part of our patronal festival celebrations.

Pilgrims: St Columba teachers, from left to right, Jane Bailey, James and Deirdre Walters, Deputy Principal Wayne Gladigau and Executive Principal Madeleine Brennan will all travel with students, pictured, to the UK.

14

Archbishop Jeffrey will be accompanying us for a few days when we visit Iona and the students are very much looking forward to spending some time with him and sharing their pilgrimage experience. A highlight in our preparations was Archbishop Jeffrey visiting our college to speak informally with the students and commission them for the pilgrimage on which they are soon to embark.

15


S CHOOLS

ANGLICAN

SCHOOLS Coming Together

the central aisle of the Cathedral and were accompanied by a quartet of string players and vocalists. The dance, entitled Enemy of Apathy was a fitting conclusion to the ‘Inspired’ section of the service. A student from each school then lined the Cathedral’s central aisle, holding a lit candle before The Rev’d Paula Thorpe and students from St Columba College lead everyone in a Taize chant (in three part harmony) called Veni Sancte Spiritus.

Anglican Schools Liaison Officer Jim Raw reflects on this year’s annual Anglican Combined Schools Service. Having travelled to Adelaide from as far to the south as Goolwa and as far to the north as Gawler, more than 600 Anglican school students and teachers gathered together in St Peter’s Cathedral last month for the annual Combined Schools Service. In its third year, the event, held on the 21st of May, brought together students from the 12 Anglican Schools across South Australia and was a joyous celebration. The music of Pedare Christian College Rock Band welcomed students as they entered the Cathedral and combined with a procession led by the Pulteney Grammar School Drum Corps set the scene for a striking beginning to the ‘Inspired’ part of the service. A student representing each school accompanied by their Principal then carried their school banners into the Cathedral. The Rev’d Natasha Darke from St Peter’s Girls’ School and the Rev’d Steve Daughtry from St John’s Grammar School then welcomed everyone to the service and made special note of Archbishop Jeffrey Driver who gave the address. Four dancers from St Peter’s Girls’ School performed a liturgical dance in

16

This reflective worship provided the opportunity to listen to solo verses sung by St Columba College students. Each of these verses gave the students a brilliant opportunity to think about the Holy Spirit in their lives as the following verse shows:

You are our only comforter, peace of the soul. In the heat you shade us; in our labour you refresh us, and in trouble you are strength. Veni Sancte Spiritus. The Archbishop then spoke about the ongoing developments for the proposed medical treatment for Majur – a South Sudanese orphan who was abandoned by both of his biological parents shortly after his birth and requires urgent medical attention for his legs and his eyes. The Archbishop used the verse from John 14:18 “I will not leave you alone like orphans” to describe how the Holy Spirit comes to us so that we are not left alone when we face challenges. This year’s service concluded with the traditional hymn “Be Thou My Vision” – a fitting end to another memorable Combined School Service where students in our Anglican schools can come together in worship and stop, think and reflect on being spirited, spiritual and inspired people.

SPIRITED! SPIRITUAL! INSPIRED! The Rev’d Andrew Mintern, Chaplain at St Peter’s Woodlands Grammar School and Senior Chaplain for all the Anglican Schools, reflects on the passion and the spirit of this year’s Combined Anglican Schools Service. The phrase is ‘Spirited! Spiritual! Inspired!’ more than a catchy title for the 2014 Combined Schools Worship. It is a phrase that captures both the spirituality of young people and the breadth of approaches within the Anglican Church. It is a phrase that could be used as a road map for school chaplaincy and other ministries in the Church. Sometimes we find it hard to speak of the Holy Spirit, for there is something a little difficult to pin down about it. But isn’t there also something liberating about that as well? For years we have been hearing that many people in our community think of themselves as spiritual rather than religious. Surely all people can relate to being spirited, spiritual and inspired. What connections can we make with those feelings and the presence of God’s Spirit? The Combined Anglican Schools service was divided into three sections – Spirited (contemporary), Spiritual (contemplative) and Inspired (traditional). Despite these different approaches the service didn’t feel disjointed, something wove the whole piece together. Could this be the work of the Spirit? I felt there was a very real energy amongst the Anglican school students as they exited the cathedral, dare I say ‘they were inspired’? One school offered student feedback a few days later on a significant thing that each student remembered from the Worship in the Cathedral, these included: reflection time to think of others; the pipe organ; chanting together; kindness and helpfulness to others; a celebration of different schools coming together; the variety of the service. In the middle ages, the Cathedrals of the world were the biggest and most inspirational buildings a person could visit. Now when the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, towers over 800 metres high, can a cathedral still inspire young people today? The answer would appear to be yes. Here are some of the words the students used to describe St Peter’s: impressive, breathtaking, majestic, huge, elegant, historical. “The Spirit blows where it wishes” says Jesus to Nicodemus (John 3:8). Perhaps we can accept the challenge to speak with young people about the times they feel spirited, spiritual and inspired. Perhaps we can explore together the movement of the Spirit in those experiences. Think about it! What inspires you?

17


S CHOOLS

EDUCATION in the

PADDOCK by ASHLEIGH KNOTT

Trinity College classrooms are increasingly turning into places where students have to watch where they step for fear of getting a little too up close and personal with furry and feathered classmates. Lucky Trinity students now have the opportunity to gain certificates in agriculture, horticulture and rural operations. The Regional Skills Training Program provides immersive, hands-on training for students interested in pursuing careers in rural fields. They also offer an alternative entrance point for students into the industry which Aaron Fechner, Senior Agricultural teacher at Trinity College, says students are increasingly seeking. “The program was set up as a vocational pathway from agriculture into industry. That’s as opposed to the academic pathway of studying agriculture in Year 11 and 12 and then on into university,” Aaron says. Regional Skills Training Program co-ordinator Aaron Fechner with Year 11 students Rhiannon Price and Connor Townsend.

18

Year 11 student Rhiannon Price is studying a Certificate 3 in Rural Operations, Animal Care and Husbandry. After the 18 month course, which runs through Years 11 and 12, she has an animal-focused career in mind. She has wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to get outside the traditional classroom during her studies.

“It’s great. I got to bring my dog to school twice – we got to do pet first aid and dog obedience with her,” Rhiannon says. Fellow Year 11 Connor Townsend has a more crop-focused future in mind. “I want to start off as a farm hand and then go on to buy my own farm,

maybe growing wheat, barley, canola, once I’ve finished my Certificate in Rural Operations,” Connor says. The facilities at the school are about as close as you get to a running farm. “We do try to emulate all of the prominent industries in the area. We have the cropping, we grow all of our own grain and hay for our livestock. We have cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, goats and our vegetable gardening, as well as the vineyards of course,” Aaron says. The launch of the program, also available for students outside of Trinity, is expected to see a rise in the number of students studying rural subjects. “It’s all hands on and you learn heaps from it, a lot more than what you’d learn in the classroom,” Connor says.

19


S CHOOLS

C OMMU NIT Y

A vibrant COLLISION of CULTURES In the first class we introduced them to Google Maps and showed them their town from above and the Chipembele Centre where they attend conservation classes. We also virtually visited their school and saw one boy’s house. This was a very special experience for the Zambians as, not only was it their first time on a smartboard and using Google Maps, it was very exciting for them to be looking at their small town and recognise areas of it. When we moved into the Year 6 classes the students were completing worksheets about Zambia. The Zambian student’s were very good at working with the younger children and helping them with their project.

Pulteney Grammar student Tessa Manning with Zambian student Mirriam Ng’uni.

Year 11 Pulteney Grammar student Tessa Manning describes the colour and movement of the recent visit from a group of students from Zambia. Earlier this year Pulteney was treated to a fantastic performance by ten visiting students from the Chipembele Conservation Club in Zambia. The students dressed in traditional costume and danced and sung to the beat of drums played by two of the boys. By the second verse of the song the whole school had joined in and was clapping along. As one of the fortunate students who had travelled to Zambia and participated in activities with the Zambian students in the week leading up to this, I had seen this dance twice before but was still amazed by it. It was clear that the Zambian students were enjoying this much more than they had the first time I saw it, owing to the large smiles on their faces. After the dance they got up and said a few sentences about themselves and what they hopped to get out of their trip.

20

I think that the highlight for most people came when Enala stood up and talked about her wish for gender equality in Zambia. The Zambian students then had a full day of classes. They attended a range of classes including PE, art, maths, biology and music, in which they were all fully engaged and enjoyed themselves. Having one of the students in my classes was a great experience as one of the best and most memorable days I had in Zambia was when I attended class with Kings Chimungu for a day. I recall learning about the importance of education in Chinyanja (the local language) and proper subsets in maths. I think the Zambian students took more out of their day in our classes than we did in theirs. I asked if they learnt similar things and they all said that they did but they also said that it was very different. In Zambia they have up to 80 in a class and here we have small classes and everyone has a computer. Spending time with these Zambian students allows us to see how fortunate we are here. The Zambian students also attended classes with Middle School, Prep and Kurrajong students. I was lucky enough to assist them in the Prep classes.

Some students made a special connection with the Zambians. One girl asked a Zambian boy to sign her ruler and then took a selfie with him on her iPad. I’m sure this was an odd, but very exciting, experience for the Zambian boy. Seeing these kids, who come from a place where the classrooms are square brick buildings, packed full of kids with not enough resources to go around, coming to a place where we are blessed with plenty of space and who have more than enough to share, was a great experience. At the assembly, I was in awe of the confidence of these students. They were only told minutes before that they would be performing to an audience of nearly 1000 people but this didn’t seem to bother them at all – they still performed to their charismatic best. When we moved into classes I could see just how well they work and how well they could keep up with us in subjects like biology and maths. In the Prep School classes I watched them develop and learn with the younger students when using Google Maps then see them take on a new role and begin teaching kids about Zambia with pride. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them slide into this school and I was glad to see all Pulteney students and staff took time to talk to them individually and made such an effort to welcome them. We will miss them, but never forget them. For some of us, Zambia is now our second home.

BOOK S

A POLITY OF PERSUASION: Gift and Grief of Anglicanism “A POLITY of PERSUASION: Gift and Grief of Anglicanism” by Archbishop Jeffrey W Driver reviewed by The Rev’d Stuart Langshaw This brief book (184 pages) presents itself on three levels: a reflection on the state of the Anglican Communion and how this developed through history; an examination of the Anglican Church of Australia as a microcosm of the Anglican Communion; and the presentation of some practical ways of allowing the strains and stresses within the Communion and the national church to be used dynamically and positively. Archbishop Driver reflects, examines and presents his material from his unique perspectives as a diocesan bishop, as a provincial archbishop and as a scholar. Both in their theory and in their practice, the strains and stresses of the Communion affect his episcopal ministry. His writing, therefore, contains strong pastoral concerns as well as the objective enquiry of the researcher. The book helps readers to understand the forces that could potentially lead to the desuetude of the Anglican Communion. National churches, and Provinces within national churches, bring their own priorities and emphases to the ‘fellowship’ expressed in the Lambeth Conferences. The role of the Archbishop of Canterbury is that of a juggler trying to keep in play all the pieces of the Communion, many of which appear to have the ability to fly off into their own orbits. Driver points out that even the ‘Instruments of Unity’ – The Archbishop

of Canterbury, the Lambeth Conference, The Anglican Consultative Council and the Primates’ Meeting – are viewed with differing degrees of importance in different provinces of the Communion. Readers are helped to see the importance of the role The Grindrod Report, The Eames Report, The Virginia Report and The Windsor Report that sought to respond to the strains on relationships within the Communion. But with no juridical status and no coercive power, these reports and the various covenants that have been produced, have no authority to impose a ‘top-down’ solution to such strained relationships. The Australian Church has many of the same relationship strains as exist in the wider Communion. Driver analyses the situation of the Australian church from historical and theological perspectives. But all is not lost. The book presents practical ways forward – through ‘reception’, through conversation and through persuasion. This is a book for people who wish to understand the Anglican Church at a theological level. It is a book for those who wish to see a way forward for the Anglican Church. It is a book for those who wish to live constructively and hopefully in a church whose critics give it little chance of surviving into the medium to long term.

Archbishop Jeffrey Driver

A POLITY OF PERSUASION: Gift and Grief of Anglicanism is published by Cascade Books. ISBN-13: 9781610974035 2014 publication RRP: $21.00 paperback $9.98 Kindle Visit www.wipfandstock.com or email orders@wipfandstock.com

21


C OMMU NIT Y

GOD WOR DS

GOD

at the

CHECKOUT: the problems and the power of shopping

by SOPHIE RELF-CHRISTOPHER In a society that places so much emphasis on shopping, and values citizens according to their purchasing power, there is worth in a clear and culturally engaged Christian response to our everyday consumption habits. The liberating truth is that we enjoy more power than we imagine to effect change, to contribute to popular discourses and to inspire alternative and healthy responses to the challenges posed by hyper consumption.

CHRISTIAN CONSUMERS AND THE CURSE OF EXCESS

Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry. (Luke 12.19) For most of us, it only takes a trip to the garage, shed or spare bedroom to see how much excess we have in our lives. We seem to be fighting a perpetual battle with the waste we accumulate. In the United States, the self-storage unit industry has a higher economic turnover than Hollywood. Endless shopping physically takes up space, but emotionally, and even spiritually, it comes at a cost. We sometimes make the mistake of doing as the rich fool does in the Parable, and say to ourselves “relax; with all this lovely clobber I am complete”. In the face of excess, Jesus cautions against all forms of greed because it weighs us down, exhausts us and completely misses the point of life and death.

22

THE LIE OF MERITOCRACY

Then he called his disciples and said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury.’ (Mark 12.43) One of the fictions of prosperous Western democracies like ours is that of meritocracy. We are told that if we work hard enough then we will have (read: deserve) more purchasing power. Meritocracy tells us that an unemployed woman can be the CEO of a bank if only she would want it, and would then work at it enough. That is often a lie. Luck, upbringing, health and a range of other factors all impact on someone’s chance of making it to the top of the money ladder. The poor are not poor because they are degenerate, the rich and not rich because they are worthy. You are not short on cash because you are a lesser person than a mining magnate.

FREEDOM FROM SCARCITY

Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?” (Matthew 6.31) Compulsive consumption, of the spareroom-overflowing variety, is often motivated by an anxiety around fictive

scarcity. There is nothing necessarily wrong with the object of our desire, nor indeed with the desire itself. The concern lies with the feelings of inadequacy that the aspiration to acquire can foster. The problem of confected scarcity, a mainstay of advertising and marketing, is that it feeds an anxiety of selfhood and stokes the veracious consumption appetite that does nothing to assist us to flourish or live well. We are all free to disarm its power by naming it and, when we are able, to resist the compulsion to give into anxious shopping.

FREEDOM FROM ABUNDANCE

And he said to them, ‘Take care! Be on your guard against all

kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.’ (Luke 12.15) On the other side of the perceived scarcity equation, is the reality of our access to gross abundance. We are free, thank God, to use our unparalleled access to surplus for good, but should be wary that fantastically cheap and plentiful products that stock our shelves often have a murky back-story. The reason that many of us can feast on meat so cheaply every day of the week is that animals are too often factory-farmed, hormone-filled and raised in horrendous (but profitable) conditions. The reason chocolate and coffee products are relatively cheap is because child slaves are frequently used to harvest the raw ingredients. The reason that a t-shirt

only cost us a few dollars could be because the woman who made it sat for hours on end at a sewing machine in Bangladesh in an ungodly, appalling sweat shop.

SHOPPING LIKE WE MEAN IT – GOD AT THE CHECKOUT As Christians we can offer an alternate world view. We can call attention to the ‘emperor’s new clothes’ in the marketplace that is often ecologically, ethically and morally impoverished. We can affirm the fact that human worth is not derived from products, and that excessive consumption is not a compulsory treadmill. Christians can get to the heart of the lie of meritocracy and champion the rights of all people, because we know the poor are not less deserving than the rich. We

can name the troubling abundance of the developed West and then shop as if we have a responsibility to reduce cruelty, end slavery and uphold the dignity of all. We are often encouraged to feel powerless against the might of commercial interest in the consumption landscape, but it is average Australians like us, who are obscenely rich on a world scale, who set the limits of what is commercially viable. We can commit to buying free-range eggs and meat, we can buy Fair Trade or ethically accredited coffee and chocolate, we can make environmentally responsible choices, we can support shops that agree not to use sweat shop labour in production of their goods and we can consume less. We are free to shop as if God cares how we treat each other, creation and ourselves.

23


C OMMU NIT Y

LOC A L , NAT IONA L & I N T E R NAT IONA L N E WS

ST BARNABAS’ THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE SHINES BRIGHTLY

ABP WELBY’S MESSAGE TO GLOBAL SUMMIT TO END SEXUAL VIOLENCE IN WAR

by Ashleigh Knott

The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby gave this video message to the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, hosted in London by the UK government.

As an emerging international-level calibre theological college, St Barnabas’ Theological College has plenty on its plate. And it’s more than willing to share.

“Professor Charry is from the most prestigious theological college in the world. So for her to be coming to Adelaide for five weeks is a big thing,” Dr Anstey says.

The College is playing host to the upcoming Flourishing in Faith: Positive Psychology and Theology Conference, held on the 29th and 30th of September.

Professor Charry is leading a movement of theologians who are interested in investigating what Christianity says about human flourishing and shifting to focusing on positive aspects – something St Barnabas is now also turning its focus to.

Alongside this, the College is also hosting a symposium, entitled Anglican Women’s Ministry Symposium: Flourishing in the 21st Century, which will be a unique celebration and reflection on the achievements of the Anglican Women’s Ministry. Professor Ellen Charry of the Princeton Theological Seminary will be keynote speaker at both of the events. As inaugural Theologian in Residence, Professor Charry will spend five weeks in Australia. Principal at St Barnabas’ College, Dr Matthew Anstey, says her visit is testament to St Barnabas’ rising profile.

The Flourishing in Faith Conference will be sectioned into three main workshop streams: Education, Bible and Theology, and Psychology. Theologians, educators and psychologists are invited to attend the conference which will be presented in partnership with St Peter’s College. The one day symposium on the Women’s Ministry will be held on October 10th at St Paul’s Retreat at The Monastery and will bring together a variety of speakers.

Along with Professor Charry, Dr Heather Thomson of St Mark’s College, School of Theology, Charles Sturt University will also speak at the event. She will present her findings of a recent survey of ordained women which have been published in St Mark’s Review. The symposium provides an opportunity for those not able to attend her official presentation at Charles Sturt University in July. With a limit of 120 audience members at the symposium, online registration is essential to secure your place. For those traveling far for the event, overnight stays in rooms at the St Paul’s Retreat Centre are also available. This is just the tip of the iceberg, there’s plenty more on the horizon for the College. “By the end of this year we will be well and truly on the national stage,” Dr Anstey says.

CHRISTIANS OPENED THEIR DOORS TO NEW FRIENDSHIPS with REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS Hundreds of Christians around Australia opened their homes and their hearts to refugees and asylum seekers participating in Welcome to My Place during Refugee Week, from the 15th to the 21st of June. Welcome to My Place provides a new opportunity for Christians to show their hospitality to refugees and asylum seekers by hosting a dinner in their home or church community. By sharing a meal, Christians and refugees and asylum seekers are able to share their experiences and cultures as well as develop new friendships. Welcome to My Place Coordinator Visier Sanyu said that Welcome to My Place allowed Christians and churches to be

24

proactive in making refugees and asylum seekers feel included in their communities. “Many asylum seekers and refugees who come to Australia often experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. Likewise, there are many Australians who would like to be able to reach out to refugees and asylums seekers in their community but are unsure of the best way to do so.” “Welcome to My Place is a way for Christians to heed Christ’s message of reaching out to our fellow man and making them feel welcome,” Mr Sanyu said. One hundred and forty two churches from across Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth invited refugees and asylum seekers into their church communities for dinner.

Vicar Richard Condie from St Jude’s Anglican Church in Melbourne said that local parishioners had been very forthcoming in offering to host Welcome to My Place dinners in their homes. “Parishioners from our church took a keen interest in Welcome to My Place. This initiative really gave people the power to play a part in reaching out to others in a very human and practical way,” Vicar Richard Condie said. Welcome to My Place was an idea originally developed by Welcome to Australia and is now a campaign organised in partnership with World Vision Australia.

By ACNS

The message was played at a panel discussion on the role of faith leaders in preventing and responding to sexual violence in conflict. A transcript of the message; “I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to say something to this extremely important gathering. The Foreign Office has committed itself, and the British government generally has committed itself, to combating sexual violence across the world – and that is a project of such value and significance that it is hard to describe. “A few weeks back I was with my wife in the eastern DRC and seeing what – funded by the British government – churches and NGOs are doing to combat sexual violence. And when you see what happens to people, it is breathtakingly terrible; and when you see what targeted, careful work does it is extraordinary in what can be achieved. “Let me give you an example. On both visits over the last few years I’ve gone to see churches working with women

BRAZIL’S PRIMATE SAYS: ENJOY THE FOOTBALL JUST DON’T FORGET THE POVERTY By ACNS The World Cup is a global celebration, on a par with the Olympic Games. As a global showcase, it is an opportunity to bring people and cultures together. But while we can all appreciate the talents of wealthy footballers, we are also encouraged not to forget the needs of those living in poverty, including many in

The panel, chaired by Nicky Morgan, Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Minister for Women, discussed examples from across the faiths where religious leaders and communities have played a distinctive role in addressing the root causes and consequences of sexual violence.

They also considered how barriers to their effective participation can be transformed.

who had been raped. The society of the eastern DRC is being progressively more brutalised by war, by rampaging militias, by extractive industries misbehaving, and that brutalisation is slipping into the general population. The churches are the main bulwark against this brutalisation. They love the women who come to them for help. They show them love and human dignity – that is extraordinary in itself.

recently as well, there has been a culture of impunity. Faith leaders are challenging that culture fiercely, and saying that rape and sexual violence in war is absolutely unacceptable and will result in consequences. It’s hugely important.

“Through wonderful organisations like HEAL Africa they treat their physical injuries. And then individual clergy, trained and equipped, with their wives, begin to deal with the issues of deskilling – and so they teach them a craft. They enable them to re-enter society. They show them that they are of unique importance as people; not merely the objects of other people’s lust, rage and disempowerment. “Historically, as we are seeing in wars also in the South Sudan where I’ve been

Brazil, which is hosting the tournament. Here are the thoughts of the Most Rev’d Francisco de Assis da Silva, Primate of Brazil: Brazil and football are almost synonyms. We often say that Brazilians are born with football in their DNA. Football is a cultural trademark of the country. This year we have the World Cup in Brazil (12 June to 13 July), and around it there have been many demonstrations – not against the tournament itself, but against the lack of investment in public services that guarantee a better quality of life for the Brazilian people. The people are asking: if the government and private sector can invest so much

The speakers, who represented different faith communities, included the Anglican Archbishop of Rwanda, Onesphore Rwaje.

“Secondly, the churches are deeply involved in the restoration of relationships – particularly the relationships, the proper relationships between men and women, in which there is equal valuing. “In other words, with the right collaboration on the ground, this is an issue where we can, in this world, make a significant difference. “I want to end by again commending the British government for a costly and deliberate policy of attacking this terrible crime. And to commend this conference for giving the time to seek to make a difference that is achievable if we work together. Thank you.”

on the construction of stadia and infrastructure for the World Cup, why can’t they invest in public services, such as transport, education and health? The World Cup should be an opportunity for world cultures to meet and celebrate, and we pray that this larger goal is reached. But, equally, we hope the government and local authorities will understand the need for a programme of investment that serves the majority of the population, rather than just supporting a single month-long event. May God enlighten our leaders for a wise answer to these demands. As Brazil grows economically, it should also grow in the field of citizenship.

25


C OMMU NIT Y

PEOPL E & PL AC E S

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL OF CHURCHES NEWS Receptive Ecumenism Handbook Healing Gifts for Wounded Hands: The promise and potential of Receptive Ecumenism – a booklet to assist us all in the way of Receptive Ecumenism: updated Available at www.sacc.asn.au

Receptive Ecumenism Workshops Receptive Ecumenism Workshops for Inter Church Councils and for Congregations and Parishes – contact www.sacc.asn.au

Receptive Ecumenism in International Perspective: Contextual Ecclesial Learning Several Australians, including at least six from SA, participated in the Third International Receptive Ecumenism Conference at Fairfield University, Connecticut, USA from 9th -12th June 2014.

The theme was Receptive Ecumenism in International Perspective: Contextual Ecclesial Learning. In addition to this participation, SA Council of Churches was also named as a co-Sponsor of the Conference, in acknowledgement of the immense contribution the Churches in SA, through SACC, have made to the way of Receptive Ecumenism, in learning about as well as in the practical application. “My hope for this gathering of people from several denominations across the world is that we will discover more about how our churches can be more reflective of the way and unity of Christ, institutionally as well as individually, and so be a seamless sign together of love, justice and peace in our world,” SACC Executive Officer, Geralidine Hawkes said. SA Council of Churches will host a follow-up Receptive Ecumenism Lecture/Conference on 17 & 18 October, with contributions from local and overseas participants from the international conference. More information at www.sacc.asn.au

Peace Lamps from the Holy Land SA Council of Churches (SACC) invites you to buy a Peace Lamp, made by young people in Taybeh, a small Christian village in the West Bank 25kms north east of Jerusalem. The hope of the project is to place a Peace Lamp in every single church in the world and to unite as many Christians and people of faith is a common prayer for peace in the Holy Land. Peace Lamp 1: Traditional Model $44 + p&p (includes glass cup and two tea lights) Peace Lamp 2: Small Dove Model $20 + p&p Photos of Peace Lamps + Order Form, and stories at www.sacc.asn.au Contact Helen at SA Council of Churches, 65 Flinders St, Adelaide sacc@picknowl.com.au or Ph: 8215 0300

FLOURISHING IN FAITH: POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY AND THEOLOGY CONFERENCE 29-30 September, at St Peter’s College Flourishing in Faith is an innovative conference that will focus on the contemporary issues of human flourishing through the lens of theology. It is a joint initiative of St Peter’s College and St Barnabas’ College, the Anglican Theological College of Adelaide and part of the Charles Sturt University School of Theology. Religious Education has long focused on a range of objectives from faith formation and the fostering of Christian character, to building knowledge and ethical competencies. Positive psychology has, more recently, been exploring an evidencebased approach to human wellbeing through topics such as character development, relationships and meaning and purpose in our lives. How does this recent research fit with the long-standing traditions and teachings of the Christian faith? Is there a tension between positive psychology and theology? Or is there a congruence?

26

This conference will present some of the best thinking and promote discussion on just such topics.

Workshop presenters will come from leading Independent and Catholic schools across Australia.

Positive psychologists argue that a key goal is to develop evidence-based approaches to strengthen individual and community well-being, whereas Ellen Charry claims that before modern medicine and psychology, philosophers and theologians were the therapists of the West.

Presenters will include reflections on the application of positive education to religious and values education in the classroom, with particular emphasis on learning in Junior, Middle and Senior schools.

Conference Themes

• Chaplains

The conference will appeal to a wide range of people including:

This conference will be a pioneering interdisciplinary meeting that will explore the relationship between positive psychology and theology with particular focus on religious and values education programs in schools.

• Theologians

With over 20 workshops, several keynote speakers and panel discussions, the conference will explore theological issues at the intersection between faith, religious education and positive psychology.

Details at flourishinginfaith.sbtc.org.au

• Psychologists • Principals /Heads • Teachers • Religious and Values Education Coordinators.

A FIGHTING CHANCE FOR MAJUR By Emma Riggs

Adelaide Anglicans have been kindly following and supporting the journey that a few of us have been taking to bring Majur to Adelaide. As we brace ourselves for the end of the financial year, we must hope and pray that only good things will come in the New Year for Majur, Mamma Mary and our South Sudanese brothers and sisters who have suffered significantly over the past few months. We met Majur in February 2013 in Bor, South Sudan. Despite being almost completely blind and unable to walk on his underdeveloped legs, Majur is a happy child. Even though it doesn’t seem so, Majur is one of the lucky ones. Abandoned by his biological parents, he was taken in by his Guardian Mamma Mary despite his significant physical limitations. Mamma Mary was left with no family following the Sudanese civil war and took Majur in shortly after he was born. Mamma Mary is a remarkable woman and has given Majur a second chance of life.

Following months of negotiations, a second ceasefire was signed on May 9th by Kiir and Machar to allow sustainable peace and development in South Sudan. It is reported that despite this commitment violence has broken out in some areas in South Sudan, though forces loyal to Kiir and Machar deny any involvement. Once it is clear that the political situation in South Sudan has stabilised, we expect that Mamma Mary and Majur will travel back to their home in Bor. As far as we know, their home has been completely destroyed in the fighting and they will need to rebuild not only their home, but also their community’s infrastructure and town. I am continuously

inspired by the South Sudanese people’s tenacity and persistence even in instances where their government lets them down. The civil unrest and senseless violence has impacted Majur significantly and we have been unable to secure a visa for him to come to Australia to receive medical attention to treat his legs and vision. Our first visa application for Majur was rejected by the Australian High Commission in Nairobi on the basis that he was found to be a non-genuine applicant. With the support of the Adelaide Anglican community, we will continue to fight with Mamma Mary to ensure Majur will be provided with every opportunity he deserves.

It has, however, taken more than luck for Majur to survive the last few months as tension in South Sudan culminated in widespread violence around the world’s youngest nation. In December last year, fighting erupted amongst soldiers in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The violence has been attributed to accusations by President Salva Kiir that the former Vice President Riek Machar attempted a coup against Kiir’s leadership, accusations which Machar publicly denies. Since this happened, it is estimated that more than 1.5 million people have been displaced around South Sudan and across the borders in to Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia. Many fled to Juba, including Majur and Mamma Mary, to take refuge in the United Nations’ compounds. As the instability continued and disease spread around overcrowded UN compounds, Majur and Mamma Mary travelled to refugee camps in northern Uganda. They are now believed to be in Kakuma, Kenya with over 35,000 other South Sudanese People, over 70 per cent of which are women and children.

27


You are invited to attend the C OMMU NIT Y

AnglicareSA Annual Reflection & Service 2014 PEOPL E & PL AC E S

Celebrating 154 years of Anglican community service and the work of AnglicareSA today

Pray, sing, hear stories, reflect, celebrate and enjoy each other’s company...

THROUGH THE (STAINED) LOOKING-GLASS

WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA Thanks to everyone who was part of last year’s Welcome to Australia Day.

Rated the ninth best city in the world, the guide listed our beaches, wine and arts scene as hidden treasures worth exploring. We Adelaidians view ourselves as a reasonably sized fish in a large pond, knowing the eastern seaboard sharks are circling for any tasty SA events they can devour. A kind of flattery in a way. Our art culture in particular is very eclectic with our world-famous Fringe Festival and our culturally diverse Art Gallery of South Australia housing great works sourced both locally and from around the world. Adelaide has plenty of hidden gems, and it’s good to know they exist. Not so we can brag, but just to know they’re here within reach. One such gem is a lovely mosaic work by the renowned artist Napier Waller. Known for his impressive work at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, a also made a much smaller, but just as impressive, mosaic in a small chapel in Nailsworth.

at St Peter’s Cathedral at 7pm at which Bishop Tim Harris fruits’. One immediate effect, not least of which, was the will Preach with reference to Anglican and Lutheran Presentations By: chance to come together as a community group to engage Dialogues. This will be followed by Supper and a Forum with new arrivals, was the linking up of three Afghan Presentation with time for Discussion and Questions in the families with a support group in the community. Cynthia Poulton Hall. RSVP to Peter Burke 8305 9295. Refreshments will be served atthem the conclusion of the service and all are welcome. Also I have made contact with a local basketball club to let know about three newly arrived teenage boys from the Philippines, Please catering who have been reunited with their family RSVP and wishfor to join the club. purposes – by 7 July to Jill Rivers

The Reverend Dr. Warren Huffa and The Reverend Peter Sandeman

In 1963 a bequest of money was left to the North Road Cemetery to create a mosaic memorial in the Chapel of the Resurrection, the centrepiece of the cemetery.

Hopefully other clubs involved have picked 8305 up some new members as well. We would like to facilitate this event again this year, drawing on the Marion Council’s ‘Building Healthy and Vibrant Communities’ funding.

Already a famous and sought after artist, Napier was commissioned to create the piece depicting Christ at his Resurrection. Once complete, the Venetian glass memorial mosaic was placed above the altar in the Chapel.

For more information please contact Jeff Oake at jtoake@gmail.com or ph 0411800048.

Celebrating Celebrating154 154years yearsofofAnglican Anglicancommunity communityservice service and andthe thework workofofAnglicareSA AnglicareSAtoday today

Whilst serving in France in 1917 he was seriously wounded by shrapnel that resulted in his right arm being amputated at the shoulder.

Returning to Europe in 1929, Napier was impressed with the mosaics in Italy and stayed to study the craft in Venice. He returned to Melbourne in March 1930 and began to work almost exclusively in stained glass and mosaic. In 1931 he completed a great monumental mosaic for the University of Western Australia. Two important commissions in Melbourne followed: the mosaic façade for Newspaper House (completed 1933) and murals for the dining hall in the Myer Emporium (completed 1935).

The Adelaide Benefit Concert Choir will hold a Winter Concert at St Peter’s Cathedral on Sunday 24 August at 2.30pm to benefit the work of the Bush Church Aid Society. This will include a variety of individual and choral performances. Entry at the door is $20 or $10 or donation.

AnglicareSA AnglicareSAAnnual AnnualReflection Reflection&&Service Service2014 2014

Napier Waller was a unique Australian artist. Born in 1893, he exhibited his drawings and water-colours in Melbourne before enlisting in the Australian Infantry Force in 1915.

Rather than give up his art, he taught himself to write and draw left handed while convalescing in England.

ADELAIDE BENEFIT CHOIR

9294 or jrivers@anglicaresa.com.au

You Youare areinvited invitedtotoattend attendthe the

It was dedicated by Bishop Thomas Reed on All Souls Day, November 2nd, 1965.

Between 1952 and 1958, he designed and completed his most famous work – the mosaics and stained glass for the Hall of Memory at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra.

28

The Annual Forum of the Anglican Ecumenical Network

will be held on Sunday 3 August, beginning with Evensong Theme: ‘Stewardship’ Although the numbers were small, the day did ‘bear some

by BRENTON EDWARDS According to travel bible Lonely Planet, Adelaide is a city of untapped secrets.

To be followed by the ANGLICAN Annual Service at 6-7pm, ECUMENICAL St Mary’s Anglican Church NETWORK 1167 South Road, St Marys

Annual Reflection at St Mary’s Anglican Church 3-5:30pm, Thursday 10 July The Reflection session is for staff, By Jeff Oake volunteers and board members.

Pray, Pray,sing, sing,hear hearstories, stories,rere flect, flect,celebrate celebrateand andenjoy enjoyeach eachother’s other’scompany... company... Each one of the Hall’s fifteen stained glass windows represents a defining quality of Australian servicemen and women, incorporating images of Australian soldiers, airmen, sailors and a nurse, all from the First World War. The walls and dome of the Hall are lined with one of the largest mosaics in the world. The figures on the walls – a soldier, a sailor, an airman and a servicewoman – depict the Australian experience of the Second World War. Such was his contribution to Australian art, Waller was appointed OBE in 1953 and CMG in 1959. He died in 1972 and his three major works can still be seen in Melbourne and Canberra.

Annual AnnualReflection ReflectionatatStStMary’s Mary’sAnglican AnglicanChurch Church 3-5:30pm, 3-5:30pm,Thursday Thursday1010July July The TheReflection Reflectionsession sessionisisfor forstaff, staff, volunteers volunteersand andboard boardmembers. members.

To Tobebefollowed followedbybythe the Annual AnnualService Serviceatat6-7pm, 6-7pm, StStMary’s Mary’sAnglican AnglicanChurch Church 1167 1167South SouthRoad, Road,StStMarys Marys

Theme: Theme:‘Stewardship’ ‘Stewardship’ Presentations PresentationsBy: By:

The TheReverend ReverendDr. Dr.Warren WarrenHuffa Huffaand andThe TheReverend ReverendPeter PeterSandeman Sandeman Refreshments Refreshmentswill willbebeserved servedatatthe theconclusion conclusionofofthe theservice serviceand andallallare arewelcome. welcome. Please PleaseRSVP RSVPfor forcatering cateringpurposes purposes– –byby7 7July JulytotoJillJillRivers Rivers 8305 83059294 9294ororjrivers@anglicaresa.com.au jrivers@anglicaresa.com.au

We are very fortunate to have our own right here in Adelaide and it is well worth the visit to Nailsworth.

29


C OMMU NIT Y

PEOPL E & PL AC E S

FIFTY YEARS YOUNG Parish Council Member Rick Smith reflects on birthday celebrations at St Richard’s. On the 15th of June, 2014, St Richard’s in Lockleys celebrated the 50th year of its beautiful red brick church. It was a big occasion – Archbishop Jeffrey Driver preached, a brass band played fanfare and a new translation and setting of St Richard’s Prayer was sung. The after party will probably still be talked about at the 100th anniversary – this parish’s catering prowess has always had a good reputation that surely predates the 1966 publication of a recipe book.

diversity means influences from several continents, although the integral display of Polish and Czech artists’ work in the church shows a long history of embracing all cultures. When he first joined us as a worshipper, Fr William noted that it was the high tower and cross which drew him to our church, even on the first drive to his Findon home from the airport. Looking over the celebrations, it is easy to hope that the tower and cross might draw people to St Richard’s for a further 50 years – and more.

The carnival is held at the start of the winter season. The sports included are football, netball, hockey, girls and boys soccer and girls and boys basketball. This means that more than 90 students and 10 teachers from each school come together for a very exciting day every year.

Going back to the year 1927, a small band of worshippers from the rural Reedbeds district (now Lockleys) are waiting for the tram to St Michael’s at Henley Beach. They decide they’d prefer a church closer to home. They form a community at Lockleys Memorial Hall and with the help of the Bishop’s Home Mission Society buy a block in Cross St, and later – despite the privations of the Great Depression – the present site on May Terrace.

Jack White, who has been a member of St Richard’s for more than fifty years, hangs out with Chloe and Phillip Hilton - two of the newest members of the St Richard’s congregation

CITY BIBLE FORUM EVENT What do scientists make of Genesis?

Professor John Lennox

Do you wonder about the fusion of Christianity and science?

John Lennox is Professor of Mathematics in the University of Oxford, Fellow in Mathematics and the Philosophy of Science, and Pastoral Advisor at Green Templeton College, Oxford. He is also an Adjunct Lecturer at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University and at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics and is a Senior Fellow of the Trinity Forum.

Do you like to wrestle with ideas of faith and scientific claims? Professor John Lennox will be speaking at Bonython Hall on August 12th with City Bible Forum. This is a public lecture, presented by City Bible Forum in every capital city, the topic will be Does God and Science Mix?. It will include a question and answer along with a moderator from the ABC. The event will be accessible to all and particularly great for Christians to bring their not yet Christian friends along to hear Professor Lennox and ask questions. citybibleforum.org/city/page/prof-john-lennox

30

In addition, he teaches for the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme at the Executive Education Centre, Said Business School, Oxford University. Prof Lennox has written numerous titles on the interface between science, philosophy and theology, including:

Four Anglican co-educational schools have competed in the Anglican Cup for the past 10 years. Pulteney Grammar School is the venue for the annual senior sporting round robin competition between Pulteney, Pedare Christian College, Woodcroft College and St John’s Grammar School. The Anglican Cup was established to create stronger links between the schools and also to provide an opportunity for friendly rivalry on the sports field.

Today, St Richard’s is a thriving and diverse community under locum Fr William Deng, ready and willing to welcome its first female priest, Sue Burgess, later this year. Community groups hire the hall in between its other uses as for three weekly services, a men’s shed, the popular trading post and second-hand bookstore. The parish runs various outreach activities including an AFL tipping competition for the footy-mad local shop owners and a writing competition for seniors in West Torrens and Charles Sturt councils. But on occasions like these, one likes to consider beginnings and journeys.

The post-war era brought with it rapid population growth and in 1952 a hall was built on the site. St Richard of Chichester was adopted as Patron in 1956. To befit the growing community a rectory was purchased in 1961 and 1964 the present church was opened by the Bishop of Adelaide, Dr T. T. Reed. The wonderful pipe organ took a little longer, finalised in 1966. These days our

ANGLICAN SCHOOLS PARTNERSHIP

• God’s Undertaker: Has Science Buried God? (2009)

On that day, Pulteney becomes a sea of marquees, parents and friends sausage sizzles and stalls, brightly coloured uniforms and lots of spectators enjoying a marvellous festival of sport. The games are played in good spirit with great school pride demonstrated by all. Each of the four schools has won the Anglican Cup during its short history. Winners have been: 2005–09: 2010: 2011: 2012: 2013–14:

This is a wonderful example of Anglican Schools working together to strengthen networks and to provide memorable experiences for students.

RESTORE YOUR PHONOGRAPHIC RECORDS or tapes to near original quality & preserve them on CD Restore your faded 35mm slides to bright colour and preserve them on DVD Ask us about VHS or MiniDV video tape & 8mm film to DVD conversion SA MEDIAWORKS, Kent Town SA Ph:8362 2251 samediaworks@ soundtrack.net.au

• God and Stephen Hawking: Whose Design is it Anyway? (2011) • Gunning for God: Why the New Atheists Are Missing the Target (2011)

A PENNY for your thoughts

• Seven Days that Divide the World: The Beginning According to Genesis and Science (2011)

But $'s for your pennies Richard is looking to buy pennies & all Aust.pre decimal coins & notes,wrist & pkt.watches, cuff links, military & sporting medals, old jewellery and more, all in any condition. Particularly any GOLD.

He has 70 published mathematical papers and contributed to other academic texts. He has debated Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Peter Singer and Lawrence Krauss at events around the globe, and is hailed as one of the most gifted speakers of our age.

Pedare CC Woodcroft College St John’s Grammar Woodcroft College Pulteney Grammar

Always happy to call. PH.83645638.

31


32


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Guardian June 2014 by Anglican Diocese of Adelaide - Issuu