Encounter June/July 2018

ENCOUNTER JUNE/JULY 2018 | ISSUE NO. 477

Because of her, we can BECAUSE OF HER

HEARING OUR CHILDREN

FINDING OUR VOICE

This NAIDOC Week we recognise and celebrate the remarkable women who are not only shaping the Anglican Church but also changing the communities around them.

In this edition Bishop Peter encourages us to hear the voice of the children and ensure our churches are safe for all our children.

As we prepare for Refugee Week, Fr Rod Bower reflects on how we can find out voice for justice for refugees and asylum seekers.

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REFLECTIONS

Hearing the voice of the children BISHOP PETER STUART bishoppeter@newcastleanglican.org.au

Today we remember and celebrate a woman who did great things, Mary, Mother of our Lord. As we do, we recall that her pregnancy placed her at great risk in a world largely controlled by men, and in which women's sexuality was under tight control. Mary, by being pregnant, risked being outcast and destitute. She risked violence to herself, and thus her child. She faced potential death in the name of purity. The tendrils of this culture reached to Joseph, who risked shame and ostracisation. This was a difficult world in which the child was announced, in which Mary became pregnant, in which Mary and Joseph became earthly parents.

God through Mary and Joseph transformed the cosmos as they nurtured the incarnate one, Jesus Christ. Mary is for us, the archetype of a radical woman whose Godbearing life changes the course of history.

We also remember Mary Sumner, the woman who could see the benefit of having women meet together as they nurtured their families. In an age of groups gathering for all sorts of adventures, mothers met to encourage and support one another, as well as promoting a life of faith. Interestingly, it was Mary Sumner's experience of becoming a grandmother that helped her set up Mothers Union, for her daughter and her daughter's peers. We all know that Mary Sumner was at first very uncertain about taking on a public speaking role, but her reluctant acceptance of an Episcopal request

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led to a powerful movement of people of all ages, contributing to a rich female religious culture within the Anglican Communion.

One author has likened the growth of Mothers Union to something like the growth of the church in the Acts of the Apostles, for it spread so quickly and so far. For many women, and for a long time, Mothers Union was a place where women found voice and found the ability to make a difference in the life of their church, most profoundly in a spiritual way.

As we all know, Mothers Union has been a values-driven organisation.

Integral to its life and work, have been values that have been shared and reinforced. The spiritual aims of Mothers Union focused on the sacredness of motherhood, and this has been at the core of Mothers Union identity from the beginning.

Those who are familiar with the history of Mothers Union know that its values have at times been contested through history, that with the changing face of motherhood in Australian society, Mothers Union has had to reflect on how it responds. The place of divorced women was, in the 1920s, a source of great controversy. There have been controversy and questions ever since about different expressions of motherhood, and different experiences, and how they are to connect with our story. What we have seen is that Mothers Union has continued to adapt to the experience of women, and continues to do so as women continue to enter into the workforce full-time, some of whom

are the sole breadwinners for their families.

Mothers Union in this diocese has been a place in which women have found their gifts acknowledged.

It has been a place where they have developed a deeper spiritual companionship, and they found ways of working for the good of families, locally and across the globe. In 1910, the Bishop of Newcastle said that there weren't many Mothers Union branches, for the women were very independent here. Mothers Union has continued to grow from that point, and to make a difference. Mothers Union now takes on and continues to take on a different shape as it continues to minister in the life of the diocese.

I want to call on the grandmotherly and motherly instincts that you all have under the patronage of Mary, Mother of our Lord, and seek your support in a vital project for our Anglican and Australian life.

At the end of 2017, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse issued its report. It proposed that all institutions in Australia commit themselves to 10 child safe standards.

The diocese has already done so.

The Royal Commission believes that with these standards in place, an institution is much more likely to be safe for children today. While much of the focus of institutions has been on those who have been harmed in the past, the Royal Commission was clear that our call is to address the past and to make sure that we are

REFLECTIONS safe for children today.

One of the standards focuses us on hearing the child when they speak; properly hearing. And I must say that as we've reviewed these standards in our diocese and life, that's one we've put a big circle around to ask ourselves the question, "Do we in our parishes, when children are present, properly hear them?"

Sometimes we hear children so that they might entertain us. Their responses to the children's talk might be this. Sometimes we hear children whingeing and crying, laughing and celebrating, but do we properly hear them?

Our culture in Australia is vastly different from a world where children were to be seen and not heard. I remember my parents telling me that, usually when I was being heard. But it was a culture we all know about, don't we, when children weren't to have a voice? It was present in our homes, but even now we must ask ourselves the question, "Will the voice of the child be given dignity and equality?" The voice of the child being given dignity and equality. To be heard with dignity and equality is a struggle that we know many women had to work hard for, that their voice might be given dignity in a church in some places which says women can only speak in certain environments. It's a struggle we've had in our church where women have been locked out from all sorts of ministry until only three decades ago. So if that's been one of our struggles, how ready are we to hear the voice of the child with dignity and equality?

Theologically, we know that Mary's vocation was to enable her child to be heard, as a child and as a man.

We know that Jesus took the children and held them, he drew the child to his heart, and he esteemed them.

Jesus went on to name the child as a wisdom-bearer of the kingdom life, become like this child to enter the kingdom of God. We probably are meant to be the best at hearing the voice of the child, given this teaching of Jesus.

Yet sociologically we know that children who have sought to cry out have been dismissed. We know that some of the children who were crying

out were crying out because of the harm they were experiencing, but we didn't hear. We also know that it is really hard for children to speak, especially as damage is unfolding.

To get a child to speak when in their teenage years is a really difficult task. We know that, for we have been parents, some of us grandparents, some of us great grandparents. But we also remember what it was like for ourselves when we wanted to live in our interior world, rather than tell others what is going on.

But I know that your first reaction to my question, "Will we listen to children with dignity and esteem?" will be, "Of course". But what will we do when they say things we don't want to hear? Will we be quick to cover their words with our words? Are our gestures such that really we say, "I'd rather not know?" I don't want any of us to feel profoundly guilty about that on one level, because some of the stuff that children want to tell us is hard to hear. The sort of hearing we're talking about involves grace, grace to be able to continue in the conversation when the conversation gets hard.

But my suggestion is that the environment of critical listening begins a long way back, before any difficult moment. If our culture is about celebrating the voice of the child, if our culture is about saying, "please speak so that we might hear you", then we will find ways of always encouraging their contribution, we'll make sure we let them finish their words, we'll be listening for the words behind the words, the ones that are unspoken, and we'll make it safe for them to explore ideas that children do. Because they work out how to walk in this world sometimes by disagreeing with us, actually quite often by disagreeing with us.

My reason for asking you, as the Mothers Union, is because this goes right to the heart. Mothers Union was formed to look after families.

The purpose of families is to look after children. This is core business, and I know that if in our parishes, you went back and said, from today we are going to listen to children in a different way than what we've been doing before and show it, you will bring change. I know that if you

do this, our diocese will be different because you will say, "If we're not listening to children we're not doing the right thing, how can we change?"

Because you are women in the spirit of Mary, mother of our Lord, and women in the spirit of Mary Sumner.

My reason for asking you is that we do need to be well placed to hear children. To hear the child who says to us, "I'm wondering about my sexual identity." We need to be well placed to hear the young person say to us, "I've shared an intimate image of myself and it's now being misused".

We need to be well placed to hear the child who says, "This is what's happening to me".

Mothers Union is value-driven, protecting children is our highest value. You are gathering here today to celebrate radical women, Mary, mother of our Lord and Mary Sumner, women who made a difference for the world. You are part of the church that needs to reform in the light of its failures, and you can make a difference because you have done so before. Will we together do all that is in our power to ensure that children are fully heard in our church life? So that they can be properly heard at all times, so that they can bear the kingdom to us in ways that we've yet to discover, so they can speak to us when they need our help?

One of the things that shape us is that as we look at what's gone on in our diocese, we feel the weight of the problems that have come.

We wonder where we've been, and what our part might have been, and we can be weighed down by that burden. The invitation, I think, of the Royal Commission and of days like today, is to go, "Yes that's part of our story, and some things I would like to have done differently. But I can do something different now".

My invitation to you in living out the values of Mothers Union, in living out its mission, in sharing the mission of Christ, which is reflected in his love for children, that you will be agents and ambassadors of making sure that our children are fully heard in our life.

Adapted from Bishop Peter's MU Lady Day sermon.

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THIS EDITION 2 Reflections 4

Topics

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Because of her, we can!

TOPICS

Episcopal Visits

14 Q&A 16

Refugee Week

18

Samaritans Winter Appeal

20

Around the Diocese

28

What's On

29 Notices 30 Recipe 31

Puzzle

Cover photo Rev'd Di Langham, 7.30 Report The Anglican Encounter, the magazine of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, is published bimonthly from February to December. The Anglican Encounter is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.

Contact Details PO Box 817 Newcastle NSW 2300 P: 02 4926 3733 F: 02 4926 1968 E: editor@newcastleanglican.org.au www.newcastleanglican.org.au Production Team Editor/Designer: Louise Mackay Publisher: The Rev'd Murray Woolnough Editorial Committee: Robyn Ashley-Brown, Emma Clark, Dianne Rayson Proofreaders: Kath Dockrill, Pat Dring, Barbara Sweet, Judith Weaver, Pamela Lusty Printing & Distribution Printer: BlueStar Web Distribution: House With No Steps, Newcastle Subscriptions Local $30 per year; Overseas $40 AUD per year. To subscribe send your name, address and a cheque made out to the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, to The Editor, PO Box 817, Newcastle NSW 2300.

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Next Deadline: July 13, 2018

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Bishop Ross Bay from the Anglican Diocese of Auckland has been visiting the Diocese this week. We snapped this photo of Bishop Ross and Bishop Peter as they popped into the office today.

In Brief APPOINTMENTS The Ven Charlie Murry was episcopally ordained and appointed Assistant Bishop – Coastal on May 10.

The Ven Canon Sonia Roulston was episcopally ordained and appointed Assistant Bishop – Inland on May 10.

Archdeacon Arthur Copeman was appointed Archdeacon of Newcastle on May 10.

The Rev'd Canon Allan Bate was appointed Canon for Evangelism and Evangelical Ministries on May 10.

Archdeacon David Battrick was appointed Archdeacon for Mission and Mission Planning on May 10.

Archdeacon Rod Bower was appointed Archdeacon for Justice Ministries and Chaplaincy on May 10.

The Rev'd Canon Kesh Govan was appointed Canon for Fresh Expressions and Ministry Innovation on May 10.

The Rev'd Canon Paul West continues as Canon for Theology, Mission and Arts.

RESIGNATIONS The Ven Charlie Murry resigned as Rector of the Parish of Singleton on May 10.

The Ven Canon Sonia Roulston resigned from the Paterson Canonry on May 10.

The Rev'd Chris Orczy has resigned as Rector of the Parish of Morpeth. He will conclude his ministry on June 18.

The Rev'd Murray Woolnough has accepted appointment as Chaplain at the Police Academy. He will conclude his ministry as Rector of the Parish of St John's Cooks Hill on June 30.

MOVEMENT The Rev'd Jenny Foley has moved from a part time to a full time chaplaincy role with Anglican Care.

She concluded her ministry in the Parish of Cockle Bay on April 29 2018.

DIOCESAN OFFICE Mrs Jenny Chung has concluded her role as the Chief Financial Officer to the Diocese.

Mr Glen Cousins has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer to the Diocese.

Mrs Jemma Hore, the Executive Assistant to the Diocesan Chief Executive & Chief Operating Officer, is currently on Maternity Leave. Miss Jennifer Ryan has been appointed in the Maternity Leave relief role.

TOPICS

Diocese called to be Flourishing By Grace In April 2018, Bishop Peter invited the Diocese to come together for Regional Meetings held across the Diocese in the Central Coast, Maitland-Paterson, Manning, Upper Hunter and Newcastle regions.

The meetings saw clergy and laity from across the Diocese come together to explore Jesus' call that we might have abundant life.

The response to the meetings was very positive with the meetings shaping up to be a success.

"It was an evening of deep reflection and trust that the God who has brought us this far will continue to sustain and strengthen us to face the past and shape a healthy future," one attendee said.

The call on the Diocese of Newcastle is to be flourishing by grace.

"My prayer and my vision for the Diocese is that we will flourish by grace. There are, across the Diocese, some wonderful green shoots of creative change. It is a delight to see clergy and people re-energise existing ministries and embrace new opportunities," Bishop Peter said.

"Thank you to all who have been involved in coordinating and attending the Regional Meetings."

"It has been good to pray and reflect together on the critical issues facing the Diocese as we respond to God's call to mission and ministry."

At the meeting Bishop Peter presented the Anglican Church Newcastle Strategic Directions and Work Plan 2018 – 2021.

You can find these Strategic Directions along with the videos Bishop Peter presented at the meetings on our website www. newcastleanglican.org.au/ flourishingbygrace.

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Because of her, We Can

As pillars of our society, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have played – and continue to play - active and significant roles at the community, local, state and national levels. As leaders, trailblazers, politicians, activists and social change advocates, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women fought and continue to fight for justice, equal rights, rights to country, for law and justice, access to education, employment and to maintain and celebrate our culture, language, music and art.

This NAIDOC Week we recognise and celebrate the remarkable women who are not only shaping the Anglican Church but also changing the communities around them.

Words by Louise Mackay

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NAIDOC WEEK

The Rev'd Di LANGHAM Chaplain, Cessnock Gaol Every time I have the opportunity to meet with the Rev'd Di Langham I come away with this overwhelming sense of calm and content, and this time was no different. Sitting on the lake at Toronto I met with Di, not talk about her incredible chaplaincy ministry, but this time to really get to know her - for the NAIDOC Week theme "Because of her, we can".

Rev'd Di grew up on the Hawkesbury River near the Central Coast with her grandmother, parents and siblings.

Her family found themselves on the Hawkesbury when Di's grandmother was believed to be running away from the protection board. Growing up was difficult for Di, often being discriminated against alongside other ethnic refugee groups from Europe in her community. She did her schooling through correspondence (home-schooling), a fundamental her grandmother pushed on all of her children. It was this passion for education that saw Di win four scholarships – two teaching scholarships and two science scholarships, although she wasn't able to take them up.

In 1970, Di found herself in Newcastle to complete a teaching certificate.

In 1978 she became a member of the Teacher's Federation to address significant misrepresentations of Aboriginal history in our education systems.

"There was no Aboriginal history what-so-ever, except the stuff from the Northern Territory about "little pickaninnies" and "the dying race"," Di said.

"I thought there's a huge history here that is being covered up. Everyone was quite happy to have it that way except I knew there was a whole community that needed that history to be taught."

From there Di became a fundamental player in the writing of the curriculum, as well as writing policy with the Teacher's Federation in the Australian Teacher's Union to ensure Aboriginal education was delivered in schools.

"I thought from the get-go that the only way you can make change is through teaching and education," she said.

"I didn't want people to feel sorry for me, I wanted them to just embrace the history that we have, which is really rich and beautiful, so I got involved in that and continued to be involved. I started to see changes in the education around 1985-86."

The bicentenary of Australia was celebrated in 1988, marking 200 years since the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney in 1788. The event triggered debate on Australian national identity, Aboriginal rights, historical interpretation and multiculturalism.

Di became front-page news after writing a letter to the Newcastle Morning Herald and the Maitland Mercury expressing that as an Aboriginal person she wasn't happy and that as an Aboriginal teacher she didn't want to give out the bicentenary medals.

"1988 was a big bombshell for me," Di said. "Bicentenary was celebrated in Australia and everyone just wanted a big birthday party. It was just totally abhorrent to me."

At the time Di was a teacher at Rutherford Primary School. The Principal at the time became quite angry with Di, as he didn't like the publicity placed upon the school.

To celebrate Bicentenary, Maitland hosted a big celebration party with floats in the main street. Di

refused to take her students to the celebration. In the end, Di and the school were able to make a compromise.

Di, with the support of some staff and some of the Aboriginal community, took the students to the Watagans, "I took the Aboriginal kids out to the sites for the day and had a picnic with the families, right away from the whole thing."

"There were some Aboriginal families who wanted the medal, and I was quite happy with that."

"They were pretty hectic years for me," Di added.

In 1989 Di's teaching took a different turn. She started teaching Aboriginal students in the local gaol using Land Rights and other Aboriginal material.

The program, which taught basic education and language, was very successful. She continued to do this teaching for a number of years.

Di ended up in "a bit of a mess" following a major marriage breakdown, "I couldn't teach, I couldn't do anything." During this time Di got involved in spirituality and began to look at her own spirituality, joining Morpeth College.

Di started working with street kids and kids at risk as part of her ministry.

There was a very high percentage of kids who were Aboriginal kids in the kids at risk and juvenile detention.

The Bishop at the time encouraged her to focus on this as the basis of her ministry.

"I thought the only way to start working with them is to give them their identity back. That's a lot of the reason why they are the way they are. From there the rest is history," she said.

Di has been working as Chaplain in the Cessnock Correctional Centre ď‚„

"I thought there's a huge history here that is being covered up. Everyone was quite happy to have it that way except I knew there was a whole community that needed that history to be taught." - Rev'd Di Langham 7

NAIDOC WEEK ever since. Approximately 38% of the inmates at the gaol are Aboriginal.

She teaches culture and spirituality to the inmates and ensures Aboriginal spirituality is taught to all the inmates.

"I think we all own it [Aboriginal spirituality]. When you live in Australia that's the spirituality that is here."

Over the years Di has been an advocate for Aboriginal culture, and her big push now is for the church to embrace Aboriginal spirituality as well.

"I can see changes here in Newcastle. To have the Aboriginal language at the beginning of services now, that would not have been heard of 20 years ago," she said.

But we have come a long way. When Di started her ministry in Newcastle she received a letter from the Primate at the time about having a "heathen" instrument (a didgeridoo) in the Cathedral.

"I was organising Eucharist I the Cathedral. I arranged for a didgeridoo to be played during the sharing of the wine and bread.

Around a week later I received a letter outlining the offence that some people had taken that a didge (a heathen instrument) had been played during the service. I was also asked to explain the clash of Aboriginal spirituality and Christianity."

"I explained the didge this way: When you are in the Cathedral and you look up at the pipes of the organ. Are not they a pipe through which wind is blown to make a sound that glorifies God? There are many of them. A didgeridoo is also a pipe through which wind is blown and makes a sound that glorifies our Creator. The beauty of the didgeridoo is that it is wood and come from this land. What is the difference?"

"Sometimes making indigenous changes that are spirituality creative are positive steps into embracing a much more inclusive picture of God." But it to see it actually becoming a part of what happens in church, for Di, is just "wonderful".

"The church here at Toronto does a Welcome to Country at every service.

The church itself is working out how to acknowledge the Aboriginal heritage, but do it in a way that's appropriate and doesn't offend the community."

"Today we see many people celebrating the Aboriginal heritage, including people who are not necessarily Aboriginal, like Bishop Peter who will get up and speak in the language."

For Di, it's all about the little things – taking small steps to recognising the Aboriginal heritage, "We still have a lot of work to do, but I don't worry about that. It took 200 years to make

a mess of it all, so it's going to take time."

And as for the theme for NAIDOC Week, "Because of her, we can?"

Di looks up to her grandmother and mother who were "very strong women". Her grandmother wanted to be a doctor but was not allowed the education.

"It wasn't until 1949 that Aboriginal kids were allowed to go to high school, so how you become a doctor?"

Instead, her grandmother was able to influence her offspring to get an education, ensuring Di was equipped with all the books and educational resources she needed to study.

"She always made sure we were all going to school, and that education was the key. When I look at it I thought education was the key, and it is to a point, that education over everything is the key," Di said.

"So she's probably the strongest influence in my family. And now when I look back I think she was a very intelligent lady and she would have been a good doctor. But the sadness of the circumstances of the history that struck her didn't allow this to be possible."

And that, for Di, is where the theme "Because of her, we can" comes from, "Its because the mothers have been strong and continued to be there and nurture."

by reducing their isolation so that they feel as though they belong.

She's making a significant impact in the lives of Indigenous young people to whom she has been able to offer connection to country, culture and community.

Annissa's journey to supporting people in need has been inspired by her own experiences of vulnerability.

"I grew up in Armidale and faced my own battles with drug and alcohol addiction. I left school in year nine and found myself isolated from my family - I hit rock bottom. I was a victim of domestic violence and as a

single mum of three boys, knew that I needed to move to a new place to make a better life for us all," Annissa said.

Newcastle and the Awabakal tribe became a home for Annissa where she found casual work through the Awabakal Childcare Centre and began building new connections to the local community.

"It was when I started my role at Warlga Ngurra Women and Children's Refuge that I knew I had a bigger purpose in life. With guidance from colleagues, mentors and support services, I completed my Certificate

Annissa Hooper Samaritans Annissa is a fierce advocate for social change. She's a feminist, a survivor of domestic violence and a champion of people who are escaping family violence, who have experienced homelessness or adversity in their lives. She is a proud Murrawarri descendant from remote NSW, Goodooga, who is transforming the lives of young people through her work in Samaritans Specialist Youth Homelessness Services on the land of the Awabakal people.

Annissa is a connector and sees her work as an opportunity to support people throughout life's challenges

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NAIDOC WEEK III in Community Services at TAFE and I have never looked back," she said.

Annissa has now lived in Newcastle for 14 years, raising her children and making an important difference in the youth sector in which she works.

She is based at Samaritans Transitional Accommodation for people under the age of 25 and in addition to her work at the service, currently supports 20 young people whom she has assisted to find stable accommodation, pursue education and employment opportunities, as well as stability for their families.

"I feel as though I have flourished here. Newcastle has provided great opportunities for my boys and I love going to work each day," she said.

Annissa's work and experience in the sector has been recognised with her membership of various committees, internal and external to her work at Samaritans. She contributes to the Samaritans Reconciliation Action Committee, Samaritans Domestic and Family Violence Prevention and Awareness Committee, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family and Domestic Violence Committee, the Hunter Homeless Aboriginal Practice Committee and the NSW Aboriginal Homeless Reference and Community Practice Group.

Through her membership, Annissa has been able to reflect on her own journey, her work and her passion and commitment to maintaining and celebrating the culture and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the community.

"The committees have allowed me the opportunity to give back, to increase connections with the community, which has in turn provided benefits to the people we support and Samaritans staff as well as furthering my own knowledge and education," Annissa said.

Annissa is a fierce advocate for social change. She's a feminist, a survivor of domestic violence and a champion of people who are escaping family violence, who have experienced homelessness or adversity in their lives. She is a proud Murrawarri descendant from remote NSW, Goodooga, who is transforming the lives of young people through her work in Samaritans Specialist Youth Homelessness Services on the land of the Awabakal people.

Annissa is a connector and sees her work as an opportunity to support people throughout life's challenges by reducing their isolation so that they feel as though they belong.

She's making a significant impact in the lives of Indigenous young people to whom she has been able to offer connection to country, culture and community.

Annissa's journey to supporting people in need has been inspired by her own experiences of vulnerability.

"I grew up in Armidale and faced my own battles with drug and alcohol addiction. I left school in year nine and found myself isolated from my family - I hit rock bottom. I was a victim of domestic violence and as a single mum of three boys, knew that I needed to move to a new place to make a better life for us all," Annissa said.

Newcastle and the Awabakal tribe became a home for Annissa where she found casual work through the Awabakal Childcare Centre and began building new connections to the local community.

"It was when I started my role at Warlga Ngurra Women and Children's Refuge that I knew I had a bigger purpose in life. With guidance from colleagues, mentors and support services, I completed my Certificate III in Community Services at TAFE and I have never looked back," she said.

Annissa has now lived in Newcastle for 14 years, raising her children and making an important difference in the youth sector in which she works.

She is based at Samaritans Transitional Accommodation for people under the age of 25 and in addition to her work at the service, ď‚„

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NAIDOC WEEK currently supports 20 young people whom she has assisted to find stable accommodation, pursue education and employment opportunities, as well as stability for their families.

"I feel as though I have flourished here. Newcastle has provided great opportunities for my boys and I love going to work each day," she said.

Annissa's work and experience in the sector has been recognised with her membership of various committees, internal and external to her work at Samaritans. She contributes to the Samaritans Reconciliation Action Committee, Samaritans Domestic and Family Violence Prevention and Awareness Committee, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family and Domestic Violence Committee, the Hunter Homeless Aboriginal Practice Committee and the NSW Aboriginal Homeless Reference and Community Practice Group.

Through her membership, Annissa has been able to reflect on her own journey, her work and her passion and commitment to maintaining and celebrating the culture and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the community.

"The committees have allowed me the opportunity to give back, to increase connections with the community, which have in turn provided benefits to the people we support and Samaritans staff as well as furthering my own knowledge and education," Annissa said.

When asked about the importance of NAIDOC week, Annissa beamed with pride.

"I love NAIDOC week- it's a week that celebrates connection. It showcases who we are and invites everyone in the community to be a part of that.

It's a week where we know that we belong.

"NAIDOC week is an opportunity to share our culture, our stories and our knowledge. There are free events held throughout the community and we want everyone to feel welcome and involved," Annissa said.

Annissa is looking forward to participating in the NAIDOC week marches in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie with her children, attending the women's dinners and participating in the community day on the foreshore to celebrate.

This year Annissa is starting conversations with people about housing shortages, advocating for marginalised groups of people who are facing adversity, and highlighting the increased need for tailored domestic violence programs, particularly for those people who don't fit the usual criteria to participate. She continues to be a warrior for people in their time of need. Because of her, we can.

The Rev'd Helen QUINN Priest in local mission, Forster Tuncurry Imagine living most of your life not knowing your true identity. That was the case for Helen Quinn, Priest in Local Mission from Forster Tuncurry, who found out about her Aboriginal identity at the age of 50.

At a family gathering, Helen came to know of her family history that she felt was hidden from her for a long time. She felt a rush of feelings that were overwhelming, a feeling of being deprived.

"It was a feeling of anger, and then joy, and then sorrow. I felt there were things I had missed out on and things that would have made sense of some of the things that happened to me."

From a young age, Helen always felt "different". "I was called names at school, names I realise now were about my Aboriginality – and not in a very nice way."

"I felt frustrated because, although I am happy with the way things panned out for me, I looked at certain family members who'd been able to accept their heritage and use it well to do things for aboriginal

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people. At that stage, I hadn't had that opportunity."

Helen found out that her mother had chosen not to acknowledge her Aboriginality and that her father had sworn to secrecy. Her mother was one of 11 children who grew up in the era of the stolen children.

When Helen's grandfather died, her grandmother was left with quite a number of younger siblings.

"I suspect it was hidden from fear, I'm not sure. There quite a number of younger siblings together, so there was always a concern."

Helen looked to her local community to take the next steps in her journey.

She joined an Aboriginal elder's exercise group to get to know some of the members.

"I then made an application to be recognised as an Aboriginal in the community. I was accepted there, and then was accepted as a member of the Aboriginal Land Council."

Over time she got to know more of the local community. She recalls having a bush lemon tree and the

local aboriginal people coming to help prune the tree. She was able to make friends with other people who were in need of furniture and later started making food parcels for some of the Aboriginal families who were struggling. This when she recognised a need for ministry in the area.

At the time Helen was studying Education for Ministry and over time she began to recognise the connections and feelings she had grown up with. She had a yearning to learn more and to explore what she might be able to do through the church and through God. "I realised that I could do something for my people and bring us all together," she said.

With some encouragement from the Rev'd Les Forester, Bishop Peter Stuart and Bishop Greg Thompson, Helen went into formation. Since then she has been ordained and has been identified and accepted in the local community as an elder.

At the end of 2017, Helen started a Culture and Christ group that

NAIDOC WEEK

sees elders from the Forster Tuncurry community come together for painting, talking and singing.

The ministry is thriving and has been running successfully for six months. Since then, an elder in the community, who is connected to the police force, approached Helen and the church.

"Our aim is to make a connection with a group called Homebase to start an intervention program which would use the church as a meeting place for mums and children, as well as a homework group after school in conjunction with Better Living, Better Communities," she said.

"Perhaps it could become a centre where young ones could come one or two afternoons a week for somewhere to meet, or to talk about any grievances they may have, or just to meet socially. We could give them a bit of afternoon tea and help with

homework."

"That's the next step in the ministry, and where we go from there – only God knows. My ministry is with these people and I want to put my energy, while I still have it, into these people," Helen added.

With NAIDOC Week being held across the nation in July, Helen's hope is that we can help, be involved, and be together.

"I think for me NAIDOC Week really should be a focus on communities being together."

"I encourage those who are not aboriginal to attend a function and try to get to know a little more about Aboriginal people. There are so many wonderful things Aboriginal people do – they are writers, storytellers, musicians – all sorts of wonderful people within our community, and NAIDOC Week exposes these people."

If you cannot make it to a ceremony or a planned event, Helen suggests doing some research on the Internet or at the library to learn more about the culture. Helen also encourages the church communities to think of how they can involve their local Aboriginal community in everyday church life.

"A good starting point is involving food, such as a community BBQ or a cup of tea and time for a chat.

Craft groups are another great opportunity. You might want to see if some elders would like to come in and show you how to paint, or to come and paint with you," she said.

"Just saying "hello" or smiling in the street or the supermarket to people you've seen before goes a long way.

If you are brave enough, why not introduce yourself and say, "I've seen you around and I've never said hello, my name is…"

With NAIDOC Week coming up Helen encourages the church community to think of something to invite them to that allows them to be part of the community, or find ways you may be able to help them.

"I plan to ask our Parish Council or our gardening group if they can go up and give a hand to clean up on top of the hill, which is their sacred space because the people who look after it are getting old and it is hard for them," she said.

"If your church isn't doing it, why not add an acknowledgement of the traditional custodians of the land at the beginning of the service and just pray. It only has to be 30 seconds – just pray that we can walk together and work together because we are one community".

Helen believes strongly in coming together and learning to respect each other more.

"I really hope that we could walk and work together, and just hope that the community could respect Aboriginal people. Particularly Aboriginal women who really have had an uphill battle to keep families together – they still do; they go unnoticed a lot of the time."

"It must not be an us and them situation, it is all of us, we are all Australians here. Whether we were always here or we came here a year ago, this our country together, and we can't do it if we're not united." 

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NAIDOC WEEK

The Rev'd Helen HOLLIDAY Priest in local mission, Taree As we think about the theme for NAIDOC Week 2018, "Because of her, I can", each of us can probably think of at least woman who has made an impact on our own life. And for the Rev'd Helen Holliday that woman is her great, great grandmother Lucy Leane.

Having only found out about her Aboriginal heritage three to four years ago, Helen has begun a journey of re-learning her family's history and connecting with her aboriginal ancestry. In her studies and through the storytelling with family, Helen discovered the remarkable story of Lucy Leane.

Lucy was an Aboriginal farmer and landowner on Williams Creek near the Georges River in the second half of the nineteenth century. In 1865 she married an Englishman, William Leane, and they reared 13 children. Lucy was a proud Aboriginal woman and is on record in 1893 for petitioning to the NSW Aborigines Protection Board to be able to use a boat in order to sell her farm produce along the river, describing herself as "The only surviving Native Woman of the Georges River and Liverpool District, residing here ever since birth".

"She was actually an activist before her time. She was a well-connected and respected citizen. She employed a lot of people who were out of work, particularly Aboriginal people, so they could all work and have a meaningful life," Helen said.

But up until recently, this Aboriginal heritage was kept a secret from Helen and her family, "We stumbled across it purely because my cousin's children were doing some school assignments," Helen said.

"We believe it was kept a secret because Lucy had such a large family, and as laws changed and the protection board came into play, there were going to be children removed from families."

Shortly before Lucy died, the Leane family decided to disperse, many of them choosing to keep their aboriginality covered up so they wouldn't be taken.

"They just completely packed away their aboriginality and kept it quiet until it was safe. And unfortunately for us, my greatgrandmother Ruth kept it really quiet.

She even wore gloves on her hands to disguise her Aboriginality. It was never talked about."

For Helen, learning of her Aboriginal ancestry "absolutely made sense".

"When I was growing up I used to always have this sense that there was something different about our family, I have always been interested in the history," she said.

"I can't explain it – it's like there's an incredible spiritual connection to your environment and to your land. [Growing up in the Bungwahl area] I had this incredible sense of connection to that place. So when I found out that we were indigenous, a lot of things began to make sense to me about how I see the world and the way I feel spiritually connected to the world and to the place."

"When I go overseas I actually yearn for the Australian bush, I yearn for the smells in the bush, I yearn for the space and the skies. That connection to Australia, I know a lot of Australians probably feel it too, but a lot of things made sense [when I found out] – so that connection to country was huge."

Learning about her ancestry and heritage has been a fascinating adventure for Helen and her family.

Throughout this journey she has felt a real sense of loss, "There were no stories passed down to us; we were disconnected from that part of the culture," she said.

Helen has reached out to the local Aboriginal community in the Taree area to learn more about her ancestry. "I've been talking to Russell Saunders, as well as another lovely Worimi elder called Uncle Will. My mentors are those incredible elders from the community who are now

"NAIDOC Week is a celebration of an ancient culture - an ancient culture that is still so relevant and evolves and is still so much a part of who we are as Australians."

- Rev'd Helen Holliday 12

NAIDOC WEEK aware of my connections and they are trying to guide me a little bit."

"We've lived here for over 20 years, so we've often worked together in different ways and supported each other through social justice and emergency relief."

Finding out about her Aboriginal heritage has also refocused Helen in her ministry. Over the years she has heard stories of the tragic heritage in the Manning Region, including some massacres that occurred.

"There needs to be a lot of healing around the Manning Valley. There are some stories I have heard that make me aware that we need to do a lot more work to help heal this community, and there are a lot of amazing people wanting to be a part of that – both Aboriginal and nonAboriginal people."

"Sometimes I question my vocation, and I think "no", I actually believe this where I am meant to be so I can help, and also connect with my heritage and develop a far richer spirituality."

Helen believes this work can be done through a social justice capacity, through walking with them and listening to the people, to help make a difference in their lives.

"You learn from the people you are caring for," she said.

"I feel very focused in that area.

When I go back to Taree [after my locum] I want to see what more I can do for the Worimi and Biripi people.

I feel this move becoming stronger and stronger."

This passion for her ministry is also reflected in Helen's passion for NAIDOC Week. Her church is aiming to share a church service during NAIDOC Week to celebrate this ancient culture.

"NAIDOC Week is a celebration of an ancient culture – an ancient culture that is still so relevant and evolves and is still so much a part of who we are as Australians. I think it is a wonderful celebration of culture, and

William and Lucy Leane

it is accessible for everybody."

And was does Helen think of the 2018 theme? "There have been lots of really strong women in my life that I look up to," she said.

"But when I think about this particular theme I actually go right back to my great, great grandmother Lucy. I just feel, that as a woman in that time in the 1890s, she was able to connect and be strong for her family. She was an incredible leader in her community and connected indigenous and nonindigenous communities together."

"So I look to her as the epitome of that statement – "Because of her, we can!" And she sets a very high bar for this family because I come from a family of very strong women."

"The more I find out about Lucy and the more stories I hear I just think, "good heavens, she really was a woman before her time". I'm going to reflect on that as I continue my ministry and on my journey. I just think she is very special," Helen concluded. 

NAIDOC WEEK 2018 NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week will be held throughout the week of July 8-15, 2018.

13

Q&A

Q&A ith journey?

How have women impacted your

fa

Kara Ford Parish of Wingham In the many parishes and churches I've called home, the women have been a life blood. I know I have sisters in Christ who walk the Christian journey with me, who understand life as a wife, a mother and friend. There was once a time I hid behind the scenes; I have since learnt God wants more for me than that. He wanted me to not only know my true value but to share that with others.

I have learnt through my connections with many incredible women that you don't have to be someone you're not.

You don't need to have the perfect life or have all the answers, you just have to be yourself and spend time with one another.

Some will come and pray with you when you feel you can't even put words together. Some will remind you how to laugh when you go to get in the wrong car or put the milk in the pantry instead of the fridge. They

simply remind you that we all have our off-days.

In each place I have lived there have been those women who have made it special for me. I've learnt to never say "no" when women ask if help is needed in the kitchen, because that's often where the bonding starts.

Walking this faith journey is much better when we don't have to do it alone. Through the lessons I've learnt and the compassion given to me, those women I have shared with, who I've laughed and cried with, have helped shape my Christian life. Each has shown me that God made us all unique and beautiful, with always

something to offer one another. Let us never forget that.

God is always teaching us different things at different times, so the lesson you learn this week will likely help someone else next week. We just have to be open to God's lead and most importantly, be ourselves.

"Some will come and pray with you when you feel you can't even put words together. Some will remind you how to laugh when you go to get in the wrong car or put the milk in the pantry instead of the fridge."

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Q&A

The Rev'd Cameron FREESE Rector Merewether I would say that the women who have impacted my faith the most are the Sisters at Jamberoo Abbey. I became an Oblate nearly 10 years ago and in that time they have all, in some way, journeyed with me and I with them.

Having said that, as Merewether well knows, much of that journey has been with Sr Hilda Scott who has been my Sister mentor. She has a very matter-of-fact way about her and can often just cut to the heart of an issue. She will laugh and cry with me and I know she will be praying for me all year round. Her love for Jesus is inescapable. She is radiant when she talks about him and when she is at worship she worships him with everything she has. You can see that she and Jesus know each other well.

But more than anything else, it is her love and compassion that you can't look past. As an example - about five

years ago, we, as a family, needed to make some serious decisions and she knew that Terri was struggling every bit as much as me.

And while I could sit and talk with Hilda, Terri couldn't. So, Hilda took off her St Benedict medal from around her neck and said, as she placed it in my hand, "I want you to give this to Terri and tell her to wear it so that she knows I and the Sisters are praying for her too." What else could I do but hug her. I have a deep love for the Sisters at Jamberoo. They may not say much but it's the little things that they do

that let you know that you are loved.

The little smile you get as they come to worship, the joyful wave and even the hugs. They are a remarkable group of women and if I can learn to love half as much as they do then I reckon I'll be doing OK.

The Rev'd Canon Michael DAVIES Rector Woy Woy

Perhaps the most prominent of women to impact my faith journey would be Mary, the mother of our Lord. Greek Orthodox icons refer to her as Theo Tokos which means God Bearer.

As the God Bearer, she reflects back to me the fundamental truth that I am likewise a God Bearer. Jesus

dwells within me as surely he did in Mary of old; and the incarnate Word, sewn within her, is no less the Word of God sewn within us at baptism.

As surely as she brought Jesus to birth in a Bethlehem stable, so too we need to bring him to birth in our lives daily. He must not lie dormant within our person or within our sacred spaces, but shared within our society at large.

Like many other characters we encounter in the biblical epic, Mary is a great model of faithfulness, especially in Luke's Gospel, which is the most catholic or universal.

She is favoured by God because

she is humble and obedient, she is thoughtful and believing, she is worshipful and devoted. Thus she remains a great exemplar to me.

Mary may not have attained apostolic status like the original twelve, but she epitomises discipleship, reappearing in the gospel narrative at key moments, most notably at the foot of the cross when the male disciples had scarpered.

As a great example to me, I endeavour to follow her lead.

Her name Mary is the anglicised version of the Greek Maria which in the original Hebrew is Miriam.

Appropriately it means beloved of God. Being created in God's image we are likewise beloved of God. I pay homage to Mary for her faithfulness to God and her exemplary discipleship. My ongoing prayer is to bear the good news as did she.

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Finding our voice for justice

16

REFUGEE WEEK 2018 #WithRefugees is the theme for Refugee Week 2018. Today, more than ever, we need to demand the safety and rights of refugees are protected. In Australia, it is the responsibility of our Government and each one of us to ensure people forced to flee from their homes can live with dignity and with hope. Refugee Week will take place Sunday June 17 to Saturday 23 June 2018.

THE VENERABLE ROD BOWER ARCHDEACON FOR JUSTICE MINISTRIES AND CHAPLAINCY Never could I have imagined that in a country like Australia I would ever experience someone personally begging me for a cup of water.

Early on the morning of Sunday, 5 November 2017, as a standoff continued between the men of Manus Island (who refused to move to an unsafe facility) and the Australian government, a Tweet came in addressed to me from one of the beleaguered refugees, a man named Ghulam Mustafa. This is what he Tweeted: Father, we are begging you let us arrange water. Navy is not letting us to get anything in from outside.

Please help us please.

This haunted me. I shared it with my colleague, Fr Chris Jackson who used it as the core of his sermon.

Father Chris had the Tweet up on the church screen. These words hovered over me, goaded me and accused me. Because here was a real human being – someone named to me – begging me for a glass of water. It was extraordinarily personal.

I had texted him back, "I want to give you a glass of water but I cannot do it alone. I need the help of the majority of the Australian people."

And that is the truth. There are just over 16 million people in the Australian electorate. Ghulam Mustafa needed them to tell both major parties that Australia's treatment of asylum seekers is no longer politically sustainable.

Literally, it would take just over 8 million people to give him a glass of water.

I have preached many times on the saying of Jesus: "For as much as you give one of these a glass of water, you give it also to me." But I have always taken that text allegorically.

Something has changed. Something has changed in the Australian people that we could have had men begging for water on Manus Island because we had denied them the very essence to sustain life.

What have we become?

I began to understand that as a nation we were capable of creating a morally corrupt and brutal regime, and that the Australian people were capable of standing by and allowing this to happen. In the process, we were allowing our own corporate soul to be sold to the devil. We were allowing ourselves to be diminished in such a way that would lead to the self-destruction of our own society.

The people who head for Australia by boat are not illegal. They are acting within their rights. That such displacement and desperate behaviour occur reflects a simple fact: situations in some places around the world are so intolerable that the risks associated with fleeing are better than the risks of staying put. Part of what makes us human are things like our instincts to have a home and to belong. These are powerful forces. Human beings don't leave everything and everyone they know, literally risking their lives, if the risk of staying isn't worse.

Often, I've heard Australians say that they would never put their families onto a dodgy boat, or, worse, that to put a child in a boat is paramount to child abuse. How can they be sure about that? If someone were on their way to your house to kill you and your children, wouldn't you do whatever you could to get to a place of safety?

What it boils down to is that Australia as a nation signed the UN Refugee Convention in 1954 – we made a

promise to protect refugees, and then, when it didn't suit us any more, we broke that promise. We did it in a non-partisan way: LNP and ALP governments alike. For a long time, differences in policy between these two major parties have been minimal.

The dehumanisation of asylum seekers is an immense evil that is being perpetrated in the name of the Australian people and, up until this point in time, with the compliance of the majority. This must change if Australia is not to be considered among the ranks of international pariahs and rogue States.

For the Australian people the asylumseeker issue is complicated by the smoke-and-mirror tactics employed by successive governments over decades; none of us ever gets to see any more than one piece of this particular puzzle - the vilified boatpeople piece.

Successive Australian governments have told us that this treatment of asylum seekers is designed to send a clear message to those who would seek asylum by boat from Indonesia. However, the real intention is not to send a message to those contemplating paying a people smuggler but to demonstrate that the government of the day is more than capable of protecting us, the Australian people, from those we have come to believe to be a threat to our national sovereignty.

This is an excerpt from Fr Rod's book Outspoken: Finding our voice for justice. Published by Penguin Random House out in September.

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Winter Appeal How far would you go to protect a child?

When it comes to supporting vulnerable people in our community, Samaritans diversity is one of our strengths.

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SAMARITANS

Providing safety to local children and families this Winter BRAD WEBB ACTING CEO, SAMARITANS

One person may connect with us for Emergency Relief support, and then Samaritans may be able to offer financial counselling and/or support for their family. Another person may be welcomed at a domestic violence refuge, and be referred on to longer term accommodation support or counselling.

Many of you in the Diocese will be well aware of Samaritans work and this diversity. You may have been a valuable part of our organisation, volunteering, supporting us or participating in your parish's commitment to care for those who are vulnerable.

As the social welfare arm of the Diocese of Newcastle, Samaritans aim is to strengthen the mission of the Diocese. Both Samaritans and the Diocese have the shared responsibility of expressing God's love by caring for those in need. As one, we can keep the dream of a whole and just society alive.

This winter, I want to invite you to continue to be a part of our work and consider a gift to our Winter Appeal.

Your support goes to help protect people like Jenny and Patrick*. I share their story below as it has reinforced the importance of wrap around, or holistic, support.

Jenny, her daughter, and her son Patrick have experienced trauma that many people would find hard to believe. The family fled their home

after facing severe domestic violence from Patrick's father. Patrick's father had stolen large sums of money from Jenny's business to buy drugs, he had attempted to murder Jenny, he had stalked the family despite them moving, and he had made multiple threats to kill Patrick and other family members. Having moved several times to try and escape, Jenny found herself in a regional community struggling to make ends meet when she turned to Samaritans for help. Despite the ordeal, she was concentrating on her children and wanted to make sure Patrick and his sister could manage the trauma they had experienced.

When Samaritans first met Patrick he said that his stress caused stomach aches and sweating. He said that if his stress left he would "enjoy stuff again" and "go outside". He had no friends at his new school, and he didn't think it was possible for him to make new friends.

With Samaritans support and regular counselling, Patrick made huge improvements in many aspects of his life. After four months of help, he achieved his list of goals.

Participating in school, spending time with family, enjoying a pet.

What stands out to me in this list are the everyday activities of a child.

Being happy with friends and at home should be every child's reality.

But it's not.

Samaritans was able to further support Jenny with finding stable and safe housing and our counsellors worked with our partners to ensure that Jenny did not have to repeat her story of trauma over and over again.

Samaritans also provided vital petrol vouchers and food when Jenny had to travel to Sydney for surgery.

Unfortunately, this family's struggle is not unique. One in seven children in NSW is living below the poverty line.

In 2017 Samaritans provided 280 women escaping domestic violence with accommodation. 177 young people received counselling from our Adolescent and Family Counselling service. We supported 13,346 with Emergency Relief.

These numbers highlight the needs in our local communities. Our work to support people is not possible without the generosity of others. *Names have been changes to protect the identity of this family.

Enclosed in this edition of Encounter you will find a donation slip. I ask you to consider a generous gift to Samaritans Winter Appeal so that Samaritans can continue to offer safety and support to families in need. Together we can make a difference.

19

Around

the Diocese

20

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Sonia Roulston and Bishop Charlie Murry takes place at Christ Church Cathedral History was made on Thursday evening May 10, 2018 when Sonia Roulston and Charlie Murry were made bishops in the Anglican Church at Christ Church Cathedral.

The special service steeped in church tradition saw bishops from across Australia ordain Sonia and Charlie for their new work alongside Bishop Peter. The Cathedral saw a full congregation as clergy, family and guests from across the country came together for this historic occasion.

The service was a significant occasion for the diocese. It is the only time the diocese has had more

than one assistant bishop, and it is the most senior role a woman has ever held in the 171 years of the diocese.

Sonia Roulston will be the first woman bishop to serve in the Diocese of Newcastle. It will be the first time that the Diocese has been served by three bishops.

Bishop Peter Stuart said, "The appointment of Sonia and Charlie has been well received across the Diocese and I am looking forward to working closely with them.

They join me at a time when the Diocese continues to implement

the recommendations of the Royal Commission and restructuring for its future mission."

From Thursday evening Bishop Sonia Roulston, 52, will be Assistant Bishop to the Inland Region of the Diocese, exercising ministry in the Upper Hunter, Maitland and Paterson areas. Bishop Charlie Murry, 48, will be Assistant Bishop to the Coastal Region, exercising ministry in the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Manning areas. Bishop Peter Stuart, as the Diocesan Bishop will continue to lead across the whole of the Diocese.

21

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Gifts of Love at Merewether In 2015 the children, staff and families from St Augustine's Sunday School at Merewether decided to embark on a program where their offering was to be used for specific purposes. A particular target was set and money was used for a Gift of Hope which was sent to Gospels for Asia to buy practical gifts (chosen by the children) eg a water filter, a toilet.

In 2016 our offering became a gift of Love to the Leprosy Mission arising from our Sunday School lesson on the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:10-19). This was strongly and enthusiastically supported by our Mission Secretary and individuals from the congregation.

In 2017 our offering was chosen again by the children to support local homeless children. The members of the congregation were asked if they would like to assist us support Jenny's Place, a refuge for women and children who were victims of domestic violence. This project was chosen in connection with the Mothers Union. The response was overwhelming as toys, books, food, Christmas goodies, toiletries, crocheted rugs , gifts and money were donated, all in time for Christmas. The gifts were greatly appreciated by the families , some of whom were recovering from very traumatic situations and not only wondering where and how they were going to live, but how they were going to be able to provide for their children at Christmas and ensure Santa comes.

Earlier in the year our Mothers Union had enlisted the help of all able-

bodied knitters in the parish to make squares to be sewn into rugs. With the help of friends, they were able to donate seven rugs (each utilising 28 squares) made with love. Touched by the response of the recipients, they hope to be able to repeat this effort again this year and are well on the way to achieving their goal.

One of our younger parishioners even learned to knit to assist in the task.

In March of this year one of our children was overcome when seeing the plight of the cows in the Hunter Valley and wanted to know if we could help. So our gift of love and

hope came early this year as we undertook a mission to support Buy a Bale of Hay. So touched by our endeavours, the Parish Council donated $500, the Mothers Union $100 and individual donations helped us to send an amount totalling $2071.

This was collected in four weeks.

Surely our love for Christ, our love for one another and our love for the people around us in need was evident in these responses. "Love is kind‌. Love never dies" (I Cor 13:4,8).

Love brings new life and along with this there is hope for these destitute farmers.

LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL TO THE CHURCH Once you have made provision for your loved ones, you have the opportunity to make a lasting gift to God, by leaving a bequest to his church.

A gift in your will is one of the most valuable and lasting ways you can continue to support its mission and ministry within your community.

Contact Linda Wilson at the Diocesan Office for more information on 4926 3733.

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

Christ Church Cathedral launches the Dr Keith Murree-Allen OAM Endowment Fund On April 21, The Friends of Christ Church Cathedral Music launched the Dr Keith Murree-Allen OAM Endowment Fund in honour of Dr Keith Murree-Allen's long-standing contribution to the Cathedral.

For nearly 200 years the musical tradition of Christ Church Cathedral has enriched the cultural and spiritual life of the City of Newcastle.

During this time the organists, choir and musicians have played an integral role in facilitating music at the highest level, making the music ministry of our Cathedral amongst the finest in Australia.

Since 1952, Dr Murree-Allen has served, at various times as Organ Scholar, Assistant Organist, Director of Music and Organist Emeritus, alongside his distinguished career as a Respiratory Specialist at John Hunter Hospital.

Peter Guy, Organist and Master of the Choristers at Christ Church Cathedral said, "This is a landmark opportunity to celebrate Keith's extraordinary commitment to the worship and music ministry of Christ Church Cathedral and to the wider Newcastle and Hunter community."

"It is our hope that the Endowment

Fund will provide ongoing financial support to continue the work of the Music Ministry by enabling Choral and Organ Scholarships, as well as providing additional funds for orchestral musicians and other endeavours," said Mr Guy. "Keith's 65-years of service is one of the longest organist

tenures in Australia and has been recognised with the Royal School of Church Music's Certificate of Special Service. The launch of the Endowment will be a fitting celebration and will ensure the future of this great musical tradition in the City of Newcastle."

Students Celebrate Bishop Tyrrell Day The staff and students of Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College came together at Christ Church Cathedral on March 14 to celebrate Bishop Tyrrell Day. Each year Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College celebrates the foundation of the College and honours the life of William Tyrrell.

The day commenced with a service at the Cathedral where the students were treated to an amazing performance by the school choir and band.

In the afternoon, back at the College, they enjoyed ice cream and had fun with games and activities that the Year 12 students organised.

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

Diocesan community comes together for Chrism Eucharist The Chrism Eucharist took place on March 28 at Christ Church Cathedral. The Chrism Eucharist is a gathering of the diocese to reflect on ministry.

The ministry reflection for 2018 was "Sharing the Christian faith with others."

Commencing at 10am, the congregation heard from three clergy on their reflections on Ministry Today. Each reflection was followed by 10 minutes silence.

The Eucharist took place following the reflections. During the service the laity, deacons, priests, and bishop each renewed their commitment to ministry.

Prior to communion, the oils of healing, commitment (oil of the catechumens), and of blessing

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(chrism) were brought forward and blessed by Bishop Peter. These oils will be used in the parishes of the

Diocese in the coming year as a part of the sacramental ministries of blessing, healing and setting apart.

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

Service of Commissioning for Rev'd Gary Atherton The Rev'd Gary Atherton was Commissioned by Bishop Peter Stuart as the Rector in the Parish of Cardiff on April 11.

Father Gary Atherton has returned to the Diocese after 16 years and comes to the Parish of Cardiff with over 30 years experience in ordained ministry.

Having served in eight separate parishes spread over four different dioceses, he was given a lot of opportunities to develop his skills in a few different areas of ministry, including youth and children's, puppeteering, Bible study and pastoral care.

Gary is married to Karen, his very supportive wife, and has four children and one granddaughter: Christopher, Matthew, Jessica and his eldest son David married to Jenna who have a daughter Aria.

Gary looks forward to getting to know the Diocese again and

immersing himself in the life and work of the parish of Cardiff.

Commissioning of the Reverend Hilary Wong The Rev'd Hilary Wong was commissioned as the Rector of the Parish of Wyoming on April 9 2018.

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

Sacred Cathedral artefacts included in Anzac Day dedications Christ Church Cathedral's hallowed Warriors Chapel was incorporated into Newcastle's program of Anzac Day Commemorations for 2018.

The Anzac flame monument at the Nobbys Dawn Service was lit from a flame that has flickered in the chapel since Great War widows and families of the fallen gathered to mourn husbands, sons, brothers and fathers buried on foreign battlefields.

The sanctuary lamp was ceremonially relit by Dean Katherine Bowyer during the annual Anzac Service on the Sunday evening before Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes used it to light the Anzac flame at the Dawn Service.

Newcastle Sub-Branch RSL President Ken Fayle said Newcastle's Anzac Day Committee was proud to include the Warriors Chapel's treasures in the commemorations.

"By tying in the lighting and blessing of the flame from the Warriors

Chapel we are seeking to create more interest in the Anzac Service in the Cathedral, which has been held without a break since 1916,

and highlight what amounts to an incredible museum of our war history," Mr Fayle said.

Prayer Windows connect with Families and Children The Parish of Georgetown has been connecting with families and young children through this fantastic creative worship. Here are some lovely photos of the prayer window in action at the Parish Market Day in May.

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WHAT'S ON

Dates For Your Diary

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July 6 Bishop Ric Thorpe

July 7 Messy Workshop

August 11 Diocesan Convention

Join us on Friday July 6 for a workshop with Bishop Ric Thorpe at Raymond Terrace. Bishop Ric will be speaking on the themes of church planting in our context, how to grow new life in times of change, and practical ideas.

The Rt Rev'd Ric Thorpe has been Bishop of Islington since September 2015. Before being appointed to Islington, Bishop Ric was the Bishop of London's Adviser for Church Planting and Rector of St Paul's Shadwell.

Date: July 6, 2018 Time: 9.30am-3.30pm Venue: Raymond Terrace

Save the Date: Join us for a Messy Workshop at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College on Saturday July 7.

The Messy Workshop will focus on the theme of Hospitality is the Key. Messy Church is a way of being church for families involving fun, is a church, not a craft club, that helps people encounter Jesus as Lord and Saviour, is found across the world, values are about being Christ-centred, for all ages, based on creativity, hospitality and celebration.

Date: Saturday July 7, 2018 Time: 8.30am-4.30pm Venue: Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College

Save the Date. The annual Diocesan Convention will take place at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College on Saturday August 11.

Our keynote speaker will be John Capper who will be speaking on Evangelism and apologetics.

We will also hear from Sally Bathgate who will present on Tea and Threads, plus a presentation by CEY on hearing the voices and views of our children.

Date: Saturday August 11, 2018 Time: 9.15am–3.30pm Venue: Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College

NOTICES

Newcastle Chapter of the Company of Servers All servers are invited to consider joining our Chapter. The objects of the Company include "to provide a sense of belonging and fellowship to all who serve at the altar" and "to promote good practices in our churches". We also aim to deepen our understanding of what we do as servers and why we do it – to learn to be adaptable and to be aware of what the priest we are serving requires.

We believe that we have an important role in the life of God's Church and need the support and prayers of others fulfilling the same role.

We meet on a Saturday every two months at the parish of one of our members, beginning at 12 noon with a "bring and share meal" and then celebrate Holy Eucharist, followed by our meeting. We take turns in serving and reading the Scriptures. This way we experience the subtle differences

in serving in each other's churches and with another priest. This means we are continually learning different ways of service. We learn all of the different roles required to make up a full sanctuary team.

The Company of Servers is affiliated the United Kingdom Company of Servers and also is the servers branch of the Society of Catholic Priests.

We provide a Sanctuary Team when requested by the S.C.P. for special services, especially for the Keble Mass which is held in Christ Church Cathedral each year.

Current members are from the parishes of Belmont (including our Chaplain, Canon Janet Killen), the Cathedral, Beresfield, Mt Vincent/ Weston and Morpeth.

For more information, please contact either our President Faye Preece on 4966 4184 or Secretary Dorothy Fuller on 4937 5062.

Murrurundi Murrurundi has some church furniture available to any parish free of charge. The pulpit and altar from St Luke's, Blandford were removed when the church was sold. These items were constructed in Newcastle and are in good order. They are available to any parish who requires them.

Please contact the church warden, Rex Dollin, at rexdollin@gmail.com for more information.

Birmingham Gardens The Parish of Birmingham Gardens will close on July 1. The parish is offering the opportunity for the other parishes in the Diocese to be gifted the goods and chattels that have been accumulated over the life of the parish. The furnishings, etc. will be available for pick-up after the concluding service on July 1. For further information please contact Fr Lyle Hughes 0419 460 938 or email at lyle.hughes43@gmail.com.

“Thank you, Australian Anglicans, for making a difference...”

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ur End o .au To donate to o rseasaid.org e v o n a c li g n visit www.a 249 880 or call 1800 ABN: 39 116 072 050

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RECIPE

Winter vegetable stoup with spinach and parmesan dumplings For a hearty winter meal, try this vegetable 'stoup', topped with cheesy spinach and parmesan dumplings.

Prep: 30mins | Cook: 40mins | Servings: 6 | Difficulty: Easy INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 leek, trimmed, thickly sliced 4 garlic cloves, peeled 2 teaspoons mixed spice 2 teaspoons sweet paprika 2 desiree potatoes, peeled, cut into 2cm pieces 2 parsnips, peeled, thickly sliced 2 baby fennel, trimmed, cut into wedges 2 sprigs fresh sage 400g can whole peeled tomatoes 3 cups vegetable stock 500g Kent pumpkin, cut into 3cm pieces SPINACH AND PARMESAN DUMPLINGS 1 ½ cups self-raising flour 250g packet frozen spinach, thawed ½ cup grated parmesan ⅔ cup milk 50g butter, melted

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METHOD Step 1: Heat oil in large heavy-based saucepan over medium-high heat. Add leek and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 4 minutes or until leek has softened. Add mixed spice and paprika. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add potato, parsnip, fennel and sage. Stir to combine. Add tomatoes, stock and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer. Cook, covered, for 10 minutes. Add pumpkin.

Cook for a further 5 minutes or until vegetables are almost tender. Remove and discard sage sprigs.

Step 2: Meanwhile, make spinach and parmesan dumplings. Sift flour into a bowl. Make a well in the centre. Squeeze excess moisture from the spinach. Add spinach, parmesan, milk and butter to flour. Stir to form a soft dough. Roll into 12 balls.

Step 3: Top stoup with dumplings. Reduce heat to medium. Cook, covered, for 20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through. Serve.

PUZZLE

Find-A-Word

BY THE REV'D JUDY WALSH PARISH OF CESSNOCK

Aboriginal Tribes/Clans/Languages of Sydney & New South Wales

ALURA AWABAKAL BANDJALANG BARANI BEDIAGAL BIDJIGAL BIRRABIRRAGAL BURRAMATTAGAL

CATTAI DARKINJUNG DHARAWAL DHARUG DYIRRINGANY EORA GADI GADIGAL

GAMILARAAY GUNAI GUNDUNGURRA GURINGAI KAMEYGAL KAMILAROI KERAMI KULA

MATHI PONO THARRAWAL WIRADJURI WONNARUA WORIMI YUIN

N_________________ 31

NAIDOC Week 2018

Artwork: tarmunggie-woman Artist: Cheryl Moggs

BECAUSE OF HER, WE CAN!

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NAIDOC Week 2018 celebrates the invaluable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have made – and continue to make - to our communities, our families, our rich history and to our nation.

This artwork portrays the courage and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. From the ripples of fresh water and salt water, across the travel pathways and song lines of our traditional lands and skies.

naidoc.org.au @naidocweek #NAIDOC2018 #BecauseOfHerWeCan facebook.com/@NAIDOC

8-15 JULY 2018