The
monthly Anglican Diocese of Bendigo
may 2016
issue 119
Inducted: Rural Dean Ian Howarth, Bishop Andrew, Don Bellamy and John Nieman during the presentation of symbols
God of surprises visits Maldon Charles Sherlock
“Y
Yvonne to a quiet life, and they found a home in Maldon. But the parish was vacant, being ministered to by the Revd Christine Kimpton as locum.
But that was 18 months back. With life getting on, and some health issues, Don had decided that God was calling him and
Holy Trinity church was packed, the brass shone like never before, the organ was played magnificently, and the sanctuary filled with white-robed clergy making a good impression of the elders of heaven, as Bishop Andrew inducted Don into his new charge. This, one of the most traditional buildings in the diocese, was resplendent in the ‘beauty of holiness’.
ou lucky people!’ was how Dr Alan Smyth spoke about the induction of the Revd Don Bellamy as Rector of the Parish of Maldon with Newstead on 7 April. Dr Smyth was warm in his commendation of the new rector, going on his time as churchwarden in Don’s former parish of Black Rock, Melbourne.
New Registrar appointed page 3
Ordination anniversary page 6
Which is where “the God of surprises” paid a visit, Don admitted. Step by step over the previous year, he was drawn into the life of the parish, to the point where a new call was sensed, to become its rector. “The God of surprises” was, perhaps not surprisingly, the theme of Bishop Andrew’s sermon, drawing on the story of the Emmaus walk, when the risen Lord surprised the two disciples.
“God keeps surprising us,” the bishop preached. “And in this Easter season especially, we are called to follow wherever our Lord leads.”
Seasonal Suggestions: Reconciliation Week page 9
God’s surprises page 10