networking conference news
Churches of Christ
in Queensland
october 2011 - Volume 2 Issue 10 Executive Director’s update Why do you have to drag religion into it? I recently caught up with a group at one of our Churches of Christ Care aged care facilities to talk about our Strategic Plan. Staff, volunteers, and a number of clients joined in the discussion. We talked about who we are as Churches of Christ, what we stand for and why we do what we do. We also talked about our mission of bringing the light of Christ into communities and our collective goals for the next few years. At the end, one chap said to me, “This is all beaut, but why do you have to drag religion into it?” Chatting over coffee, I found out he was a volunteer. When I asked him why he volunteered, he said that he just felt it was important to look after the oldies, and that one day if he ever needed it, someone might look out for him. I expressed my appreciation for his care and contribution as a volunteer and also indicated that he had just put into words one of Christ’s great teachings known as the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31). We had a good discussion about Jesus, religion and where values come from. Churches of Christ in Queensland’s Strategic Plan talks about ‘kingdom access points’ (KAPs) - we have over 200 facilities in Queensland operating as Churches of Christ, and at least 40,000+ significant relationships with people either as members of our congregations, staff, volunteers, clients, families etc. Each person has their own story and spiritual journey, and each person connects with us for various reasons – regardless of whether or not they want to drag religion into it. Each of our places - local church congregation, local child care service, local aged care service etc - has their own story and part to play, but ultimately as part of Churches of Christ, we should all be focused on Christ’s mission. “You were all called to travel on the same road and in the same direction, so stay together, both outwardly and inwardly” (Ephesians 4:4). So instead of talking about many different care services and many independent churches, the Strategic Plan attempts to describe what things could be like if we saw ourselves as one body with one mission – if we all saw ourselves as kingdom access points, travelling and working together to advance God’s kingdom.
In this issue • Executive Director’s update • Global Leadership Summit • Annual General Meeting • Conference Council monthly report • Mission update • Open house at Bribie Island Retirement Village • End of an era at ACOM • Churches of Christ in Queensland – positions available now • Churches of Christ Theological College changes name • Singer Kate MillerHeidke visits Boondall
Churches of Christ in Qld PO Box 508 KENMORE QLD 4069 Phone: 3327 1600 www.cofcqld.com.au
Bringing the light of Christ into communities Build on THE Foundation
Kingdom access points So, what actually is a kingdom access point? In simple terms a KAP is a place where the kingdom of God can be accessed. It is a point of light in the community. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house (Matthew 5:14-15). The kingdom of God (also referred to as the kingdom of heaven) is described by Jesus many times in the scriptures, and was talked about extensively by the apostles. It is a highly valued way of being together in community and a way of being as individuals – underpinned by faith in a God who loves each one of us unconditionally and wishes to welcome us into his kingdom now and after death. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6), and the Christian life was referred to as the “Way” in the first century of the early church (cf. Acts 19:9, 23; 22:4; 24:14, 22). Therefore a KAP is a presence in a community where people are intentionally trying to practise or live this way: • to love God and put him first in their lives • to love one another and especially care for the poor, sick, vulnerable and oppressed • to tell, train and encourage others in this way of life • to live the most rich and fulfilling life they can through following this way of Jesus (Matthew 22:37-40, 25:35-36, 28:18-20, John 10:10). A KAP is a ‘place’ of peace and hope where: • God’s Kingdom is evident and the Spirit of God filters through every aspect of the community. • There is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • There is genuine warmth and laughter, and a sharing of grief during hard times.
• Where people: ±± feel safe and have a decent roof over their head, and enough good food and clean water to be healthy ±± belong – they feel connected and part of a community ±± care for one another, and feel loved and cared for themselves ±± feel valued and are able to contribute
±± have life with meaning ±± take responsibility for themselves and the greater good ±± are honest and talk straight with one another - there are no mind games or manipulation ±± are able to grow and be themselves ±± experience wholeness, uplift and healing.
±± have a sense of purpose and hope
The apostle Paul contrasts it well in his letter to the Galatians 5: 19-26 of the Message:
“It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on. This isn’t the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God’s kingdom. But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified. Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives.”
Dean Phelan, Executive Director Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Global Leadership Summit Stirring up, challenging and uniting God’s people Toowoomba - October 28/29 HumeRidge Church of Christ 461-467 Hume St Toowoomba, QLD, 4350 The Global Leadership Summit is designed to inspire, stretch, and equip you for the unique role God has called you to play in His plan to redeem and restore our broken world. The Global Leadership Summit is a movement of sold-out, serious minded Christ-followers committed to bringing Christ’s transformative message of redemption and restoration to our broken world through the power of the local church. These leaders are united in their commitment to maximise the positive impact of their leadership regardless of how large or small their sphere of influence is. Speakers include: Bill Hybels, John Dickson, Patrick Lencioni, Hon. Cory Booker, Mama Maggie Gobran, Wess Stafford, Dr Henry Cloud, - Michelle Rhee, Erwin McManus and Steven Furtick.
Bill Hybels
The Summit will be held in HumeRidge Church of Christ on 28-29 October. For more information, go to www.willowcreek.org.au/events/globalleadershipsummit. The Global Leadership Summit exists to transform Christian leaders around the world with an injection of vision, skill development, and inspiration for the sake of the local church.
Churches of Christ in Queensland State Office has a limited number of FREE tickets available for the Global Leadership Summit in Toowoomba 28 and 29 October. If you would like a ticket, please contact Communications & Marketing on 3327 1643.
Limited free Glo ba Leaders l hip Summit tickets!
Fijian risk forum The Risk, Quality and Internal Audit team recently shared their expertise with our Fijian neighbours. Trent Dean, Group Manager, and Julie Litwin, Internal Audit Coordinator, facilitated a half-day ‘Risk and Internal Audit’ workshop for visiting Fijian delegates to assist them in developing their National Risk Management System in order to improve public financial management in the Fijian Public Sector. Organised by the International Projects Unit of the Queensland University of Technology, Julie and Trent presented their personal reflections on Internal Control, Risk and Leadership to the five from the Fijian Revenue and Customs Authority and Ministry of Finance.
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Annual General Meeting It’s time for a muster at Gympie – 12th November 2011 The 2011 Annual General Meeting of the Churches of Christ in Queensland will be hosted by the Gympie Church of Christ on Saturday 12 November 2011 in the multi-use hall of the Cooloola Christian College (1 College Road, Gympie).
It’s going to be a great day gathering together the churches and divisional ministries of the Churches of Christ in Queensland. The program for the AGM day is still being finalised by representatives of Conference Council, Gympie Church and the State Office; so mark the date in your diary and plan to come along. Everyone is welcome.
It’s going to be a great day gathering together the churches and divisional ministries of the Churches of Christ in Queensland.
Church secretaries: stay tuned to your inboxes for more information soon ... 28 October 2011 – deadline for affiliated churches to nominate their representatives to the AGM.
Any inquiries can be directed to the Conference Secretariat at the State Office Email: gensec@cofcqld.com.au Phone: 3327 1600.
125
th
Anniversary
Church of Christ Gympie is celebrating 125 years Saturday 12th November Come and celebrate with us!
The Board of the Church of Christ Gympie invites you to their 125th Celebration Dinner to be held on Saturday 12 November 2011 Venue: Civic Centre Mellor Street Gympie Time: 6:30pm Cost: $25 per person Please RSVP by Friday 4 November by contacting Adrian Risson on ph 5483 9787, or Andi Owen on mob 0458 029 566 or email andio@spiderweb.com.au
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Gympie Church of Christ A Ministry of Churches of Christ in Queensland
Conference Council monthly report New Board members Board chair Alan Sims and I have been interviewing personnel for the Council to consider for appointment to the Board. Progress is being made. We are looking for committed and active Christians who are church members and are skilled in areas of expertise that will serve the Board in its important considerations for decision making for our Conference. As of this meeting Mr Peter Hicks from the HumeRidge Church of Christ Toowoomba will be appointed as a Board member. He will commence on the 24 October.
Council Member to assist our Mission Division in ‘Postcard Forums’ Peter McAloney has been invited to serve a day a week with Steve Drinkall (Mission Division) in the Postcard Forum. In recognition of our constitutional responsibilities, he is to be funded privately by external donation. In matters that are discussed at Council that involve the Mission Division, he will simply declare his conflict of interest and exempt himself from any vote.
Devotion for September Barry Tramacchi, associate minister from our Whitehill Church in Ipswich, led the devotions for September. Barry dealt clearly with ‘second chair’ leadership. Illustrating from Genesis 39-41 he drew our attention to the experience of the maturing Joseph under three leaders. He found himself three times in the second chair position. He found favour under Potiphar where he was given considerable responsibility. His second was the prison warder who trusted him with responsibility in the prison setting. Then his third was under Pharaoh himself where Joseph acted with clarity and integrity. Then Pharaoh said to Joseph who was only 30 years of age: “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you” (Genesis 41: 39-40 NIV). Each of us is to give leadership with integrity, whatever may be our position.
Discussion on ‘young care’ Concern has been raised recently that the only option for young people with disabilities who need constant supervision and care, is available from aged care homes. At this stage, there is limited government funding available for this area of needy care. If we are to look into this and develop it, it will take time and considerable amounts of training and money. Realising this is very exploratory, we will move through the right channels to examine these needs more fully. Council will take steps and move toward a feasibility study to consider any future development into the area of ‘young care’.
Churches of Christ Sunday 2 October “We are a people where every member ministers” The theme for this year reflects the belief in our churches that it is not just our leaders that are engaged in the ministry of the church. We uphold the priesthood of ALL BELIEVERS. Each of us have different personalities, passions and situations in life that give us a unique ability to minister. More information at www.churchesofchrist.org.au/latestnews/ general/146-every-member-ministers
Bruce Armstrong Council Chair Conference President
We are a people where every member ministers Oct 2011
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Fri 11th-Sat 12th Nov 2011
Centrifuge
Leading into our AGM on Saturday afternoon Gympie Convention Centre SPECIAL GUEST AND FRIDAY DINNER SPEAKER: Jon Owen, Team Leader (Bidwill), Urban Neighbours of Hope Cost is $40 per person including dinner. Accommodation options are available. Contact us to register or find out more Email: andrew.rienecker@cofcqld.com.au or phone Andrew: 3363 1717
Gathered, Impassioned, Compelled
Christ mas in t he Park
Churches of Christ
in Queensland
Celebrating the birth of Christ
Churches SATURDAY 17TH DECEMBER 2011 of Christ Bringing Christians together in one place to celebrate the birth of our Saviour
in Queensland
STAY TUNED FOR ONGOING UPDATES AT www.cofcqld.com.au Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Mission update This month, I want to introduce you to some of the people who are working full time in Mission for Churches of Christ in Queensland. Greg Murphy, Martin Thompson and Bonnie Seip work in the Church Ministry and Pastoral Care team under the guidance of Geoff Risson, while Andrew Rienecker provides administrative assistance and support to the Mission Division. I will let them tell their story individually but I want to first make a couple of general points about them and the whole of the Mission Leadership Team. These people are passionate about doing whatever is necessary to help people on their journey of faith, both to meet Jesus and to follow him as a committed disciple. They have been chosen for these positions not just because of the skills they have but also because they have been called by God to serve the church in this way. I want to emphasise how important this is. When we talk about people being employed in any capacity it is certainly true that they earn their living by that employment, but working in Mission is, and needs to be, more than that. Mission is about taking on the forces of darkness that permeate our communities and bringing the light that is Christ into their midst. Paul said to the Christians in the Ephesus Church:
“God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.” (Ephesians Ch6 Vs 10-18. The Message). Can I challenge you to pray for each one of these fellow workers personally?
Greg Murphy, Group Manager – Church, Ministry and Pastoral Support Greg has an extensive history within Churches of Christ in Queensland having worked in pastoral ministry in various churches for 16 years. Six and a half years ago Greg joined Churches of Christ Care as the Chaplaincy Coordinator overseeing the development and implementation of pastoral care services within Churches of Christ Care. Greg is passionate about equipping churches for ministry. In his role as Group Manager for Pastoral Care, Greg sought to empower and enable pastors and leaders with the necessary skills and tools to bring effective pastoral care not only to the local church but also to the wider community through our many care services.
Greg will work alongside Geoff Risson, the Senior Pastor, in overseeing the Pastoral Care ministry team, mentoring and coaching for church leaders and the children’s and youth positions within the Mission Division. Greg is enthusiastic because he feels that this approach is about being proactive, about going to the church and the community and resourcing people intentionally.
“We need to ensure that churches have all the resources they need to fulfil the mission of Jesus,” Greg said. Greg believes that, because every community is different, his biggest challenge will be to recognise the variety of need areas and identify appropriate responses. Greg is also keen to work together with the Leadership, Learning and Development Unit and the Mission Action Team in providing resources, training, and discipleship programs. He has a desire to harness the skills, experiences and strengths within the broader movement of Churches of Christ in Queensland and to facilitate greater networking and better use of resources for the sake of bringing the light of Christ into communities.
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Martin Thompson, Senior Youth Pastor, Churches of Christ in Queensland Martin brings considerable ministry experience to his new role as Senior Youth Pastor. He began working with Tweed Heads Church of Christ 15 years ago as a youth pastor and has been a Bible Ministry Consultant with Scripture Union (SU) for the last five years. Martin is passionate about the gospel story and sees the gospel as the renewal of all things. Quoting Jesus statement “I have come so that you may have life and life to the full,” Martin said. “I am passionate about following Jesus into the celebration of all aspects of life, be it arts, relationships, politics, sport, social justice, indigenous issues, or science.”
Bonnie Seip, Children’s and Youth Ministry Coordinator Bonnie brings a wealth of experience to her new role as Children’s and Youth Ministry Coordinator. Prior to this Bonnie worked in various roles at State Office supporting and resourcing our churches for the past seven years. Bonnie and her husband Darryl, who is the senior pastor at Whitehill Church of Christ, have been in ministry for 28 years. Bonnie is passionate about the local church and believes it can be a catalyst for “bringing families to Christ”. “Children and young people are a vital part of the church.” Bonnie said.
Martin is truly excited about his new role as Senior Youth Pastor with Churches of Christ in Qld and is keen to help consolidate all the work that has been done before him and to support those already engaged in youth ministry. ‘Inspire, resource, support’, are three words Martin uses often to define his approach to ministry. Martin is committed to working to develop, promote and support a vision that is relevant, inspirational and exciting. “What do our pastors need?” is the question Martin asks himself. His response: “Resources to deliver the vision on the ground which involves coaching, mentoring, and encouraging. I am particularly looking forward to connecting with existing youth pastors and building into and supporting them so that their ministries are empowered and effective,” he said.
“I am keen to build a strong team who wrestle together with the key issues in youth ministry today and who are equally passionate about encouraging existing churches as well as building new kingdom access points.” Martin and his wife Rachael and their two children live in Tweed Heads.
Bonnie understands that children’s ministry has changed significantly even in the last five years. One of her biggest challenges will be to ensure that what churches are doing today is relevant and engaging. Initially Bonnie says her new role will involve gathering information from local churches to assess the needs within the children’s and youth areas.
“My goal is to be intentional about how we support and resource local churches. I don’t want to assume how best to do this but to listen to the people on the ground in order to better understand how to walk with, assist and serve local church leaders who serve in these vital areas.” Bonnie sees her role as advocating for children within the boarder church setting to ensure that families are equipped and encouraged to face the challenges of daily life in contemporary society. Bonnie will also be involved in developing access to resources for youth ministry as well as supporting and assisting the new Senior Youth Pastor.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Andrew Rienecker, Assistant to the Director – Mission Andrew brings a background in social and community services, local church pastoral ministry as well as hands-on experience in our care services. After seven years as an associate pastor with one of our local Churches of Christ, Andrew worked for 12 months with a Baptist Church developing a program for people with disabilities, and worked as a Chaplain with Scripture Union at the same time. He has worked with Pathways residential services for 18 months before transferring to the Mission Division. “Working with Pathways has been a real eyeopener. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the leaders and field and support staff who care for the needs of some of our most marginalised children, young people, and families as well as older Australians,” Andrew said.
Andrew is keen to draw on his ministry and local church leadership experience in his new role. “I know what it’s like for pastors and leaders working hard week in week out, building into people’s lives, providing pastoral care and training and supporting people to grow through difficult times.
“I am passionate about mission and about making a difference in people’s lives. In my new role I feel I can play a significant part in effecting the mission of Churches of Christ in Queensland. I am keen to be actively engaged with local churches and encouraging pastors and leaders in their great work in the community.” Andrew looks forward to serving the Mission Division and supporting Gerry Weatherall, Director of Mission in the work God has called us to do. “Whether it’s providing follow up and information for pastors, planning a pastors and leaders gathering, dealing with enquiries, meeting with the Mission Action Team or taking notes for a meeting, I’m committed to providing people with quality service, and as much information, resources and support as possible,” Andrew said. Andrew and his wife Nerida and their three children live on the Gold Coast.
Please support the work of the Mission Action Partners by making a donation CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN QLD MISSION ACTION FUND First name: Surname:
Payment details (Please circle your option below) Please accept my gift of: $100 $25 $50 Other _______
Address:
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Card type: Mastercard / Visa / AMEX For direct deposits: Churches of Christ in Queensland Westpac Bank BSB: 034 055 Account: 256201
Oct 2011
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An important message about making your Will ... Did you know that around 50% of adult Australians do not have a valid Will? A Will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign! Without a valid Will, you will have no say in how your estate is managed after death, and your assets will be distributed according to State Law, even if your intentions are well known. This can cause unintentional hardship and emotional stress for your loved ones. The only way to ensure your wishes are carried out is to prepare a Will. Taking time to write your Will allows you to make provision for your family and friends. It also gives you the opportunity to let your love live on through a bequest to charitable organisations or to a specific cause that you have a strong commitment and belief in, such as Churches of Christ in Queensland. A bequest – however large or small – is a legacy of love. It stands as a monument to the values you hold dear in your life, and is a unique way to continue your support for Churches of Christ long after you are unable to do so personally. Your bequest will touch the lives of many people in need in the community. It will allow us to continue and extend our outreach.
For more information on how you can help support local communities through Churches of Christ, please contact us:
1800 600 900
www.cofcqld.com.au
Churches of Christ
in Queensland
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Help people in poverty Anti-Poverty Week Poverty and severe hardships affect more than one million Australians - people who for a stroke of bad luck or circumstances beyond their control, struggle daily to feed themselves, keep a roof over their head or provide the basics for their family. We provide a range of care services to help people impacted by poverty. We would like to encourage you to assist us to help people in or facing poverty. By making a donation you are investing in the future of people in need. Churches of Christ Care uses donated funds not only to provide emergency assistance, but also to invest in programs that focus on the causes of poverty and to create opportunities for people to find and live a better life. Your donations help those who do not have the support of friends and family to overcome life’s challenges. By making a donation, you are reaching out to people in need, go to www. churchesofcare.com.au or call 1800 600 900 to make a donation. You may never meet the person your donation helped, but they will always know that someone cared enough to give.
Christmas in the Park 2011 Guest speaker and entertainment announced The Christmas in the Park 2011 program is being finalised and is shaping up to be an exciting and uplifting event.
Karl Faase
Karl Faase, Gymea Baptist Church’s Senior Pastor will be the special guest speaker. Karl is one of the most experienced Christian radio and television presenters in Australia.
Naarah Seagrott, former lead singer of Alabaster Box, her passionate lyrics accompanied by the beautiful and haunting strings, will entertain and delight the audience as each song takes you on an inspiring journey.
New booklet available Order online
at vailable A no charge ! online
Christian Management Australia’s (CMA) free new book is the second in its principles and standards series. CMA’s Guiding Principles of Ministry Resourcing’ was written by Tim Matthews from Pilgrim International/ Triumph Communications, with CMA National Director, Gary Williams, as series editor.
It is not a ‘how-to’ guide for ministry fundraising, but looks instead at twelve key principles that should underpin the overall process of resourcing Christian churches and organisations. The booklet is available at no charge from CMA at www.stewardship.org.au. Executive Director Dean Phelan said the event is an opportunity to bring people of different faiths together to celebrate the birth of Christ. “It is also a wonderful way to come together as a community and with your family, in a beautiful park, to share the joy of the season.” The event is supported by the Anglican, Australian Christian, Baptist, Catholic, Wesleyan Methodist and Uniting Churches as well as organisations such as Family Radio 96.5 and Scripture Union. “Christmas in the Park is about celebrating the true meaning of Christmas and coming together despite our difference in faith,” Dean said.
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End of an era at ACOM From the start of October, all ACOM (Australian College of Ministries) administration will be done from the Rhodes offices of ACOM, collocated with the New South Wales Churches of Christ Fresh Hope offices. Stephen Parker, Learning Support Manager for Queensland will be based in Kenmore, once space becomes available there. However, for some ACOM staff this is a season of sadness, as their role in serving students comes to an end. Merise Newland, our dedicated and efficient National Administrator has been with ACOM for over a decade. For four years Val Lochel has been an incredibly competent Assistant Administrator and Daniel Bingham has been our visionary IT Manager for the last three years. Heather Waters, Mary Tidey and Neville and Lorraine Carr have graciously volunteered their work at Springwood for many years. Leanne Thompson, Jenny Edwards, Nikki Ralfe, Angie Pittar, Irene Walton, Sascha Lochel, Greg Murphy and Pam Paddick have all worked with distinction at various times for ACOM at Springwood over the last decade. These people have provided brilliant service to ACOM students, and they will be sorely missed. They have worked tirelessly, graciously and flexibly, always putting the needs of students before anything else. They worked long hours because they cared about our students and wanted to help equip them for ministry. We owe all of these staff a great debt of gratitude. Our hope is as ACOM transitions to a new model of unit delivery, that centralising our administration in Sydney will bring great benefits to both ACOM and our students. Nevertheless, our Queensland staff will always be missed and will always be appreciated for their wonderful service to our movement. Thank you for all that you have done.
Merise Newland
Daniel Bingham
Val Lochel
Since 1999, the majority of ACOM’s high educaton has been centralised in Queensland. After selling the land to Churches of Christ Care, ACOM’s administration team relocated to share offices with Springwood Church of Christ in 2000. ACOM formed after the merger of Kenmore Christian College and the Churches of Christ in New South Wales Theological College.
If you want to contact ACOM, please contact: Phone: 1800 672 692 Email: info@acom.edu.au www.acom.edu.au Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Training with ACOM
Flexible
What do you think of when you consider ACOM? There are a whole series of words that describe what ACOM is about; however, there are four words that we think describe the distinctives of ACOM well – mission, formation, flexible and practical.
We take a flexible approach to everything that we do. This starts with our staff being prepared to bend over backwards to help. Our curricluum allows students to choose units that interest them. We let students study at their own pace, in their own ministry environment. We don’t ‘give’ students their theology either – we teach students the tools to learn and apply the Scriptures, but don’t demand that students conform to one narrow way of thinking. We’ll do whatever we can to help work towards their God-given passions and dreams.
Mission ACOM is dedicated to helping individuals and churches have a focus on mission above everything else. As Jesus was sent into the world, so we too are sent to reconcile the world to Him. ACOM is not interested in merely propping up social clubs or perpetuating institutions. Instead, our hope is to be a catalyst for renewal and mission in our churches, lives and world. Each of our units of study have the idea of mission permeating them, and helping students to apply what they are learning in a missional context.
Formation Formation is crucial to the preparation of Christian leaders. Christians are not intended to be people who merely believe various truths, but are those who are followers of Jesus, who seek to live their lives the way Jesus would if He actually was in charge of those lives. We should expect transformation in our lives as we grow more Christlike. Consequently, ACOM prioritises personal formation in its training, to equip leaders to establish healthy habits that will help them to avoid burnout, moral failure and interpersonal relationship problems.
Build on THE Foundation
Practical We train our students to be practical. We have no desire to train ‘ivory tower’ academics who are unable to communicate with the outside world. We want to train practitioners who understand, and are part of, their communities. Our facilitators are all people who don’t just know their material well, but have experience in applying it in local minstry practically. We don’t ask our students to leave their ministries to train for the ministry, but ask them to stay practically involved in real ministry while they study, so what they learn is being constantly applied on the job. Even our assignments are practical, and allow students to focus their learnings in real situations.
To find out more about what ACOM is like to train with – from Certificate IV to Doctor of Ministry – please contact us on info@acom.edu.au, 1800 672 692 or www.acom.edu.au.
supporting your church ... through:
Churches of Christ
in Queensland
Savings and Investment Accounts Loans
Our Funeral Assistance Plans Home Loans
SUPPORTING YOUR CHURCH www.cdf.org.au / ph 1300 659 644 Oct 2011
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Professional development Benefits of being an ACOM student ACOM is facilitating a number of three-day courses to push your thinking out of the box and be challenged by the ideas of others. Each of these facilitators has significant ministry experience, are experts in their fields and excel at leading groups. You will thoroughly enjoy being part of this training, which many students say is the highlight of their ACOM experience. If you’d like to audit any of these facilitations, please contact ACOM on 1800 672 692 or info@acom.edu.au.
Third semester choices to be held in October: Preaching
Oct 18-20 Gateway
Jason Elsmore
Team Leader, Gateway Baptist
Mastering Change
Oct 24-26 Gateway
Rod Irvine
Former Senior Pastor, Fig Tree Anglican Church, Wollongong
ACOM has a partnership with Fuller Theological Seminary where students can do the course while staying in Australia with only one two-week trip to the USA. Students then learn in the context of their own ministry, with course work from the likes of Dallas Willard, Arch Hart, Mark Conner, Keith Farmer, Kim Zovak, Richard Blackaby and many more. It is a fantastic program that practically equips Christian leaders to wrestle well with issues of leadership, culture and mission, all with a strong theological foundation.
THE THEOLOGICAL WISDOM OF CHANGING YOUR PREACHING
Recent D Min Graduate, Ross Pelling, Ministry Team Leader at Southport Church of Christ said doing the Fuller D Min has been one of the most significant positive influences on both his ministry and his life. “This course brings together some of the best resources together from around the world to reshape ministry understanding and practice. It's highly relevant, challenging and inspiring - just what I need for tackling the issues of church and ministry in today's world,” Ross said.
Coming classes in Australia: • • • • • •
Empowering Leaders through Coaching, Kim Zovak, Oct 24-28, 2011 Homiletic Development, Allan Demond, March 19-23, 2012 Spiritual Leadership, Richard Blackaby, August 13-17 Character Shaped Leadership, Keith Farmer Oct 2-4 The Dynamics of Leading a Contemporary Church, Mark Conner, Oct 23-25 Plus the National Youth Ministry Convention, Hillsong and Willow Creek Global Leadership Summits can all be used for independent units.
If you would like to enrol in the class Homiletic Development March 19-23, 2012, you would need to have completed your D Min course application by 10 August 2011. To discover more about this course, please visit the ACOM website or www.acom.edu.au or call 1800 672 692 or sparker@acom.edu.au.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
COCOA Great Gifts on the way The COCOA (Churches of Christ Overseas Aid) Great Gift catalogue will be arriving in the mail or via your church soon. Giving a COCOA Great Gift card is a special way to meet real needs and involve others in making a positive difference overseas. One COCOA partner, Jabulani Xaba, director of Khayelihle Children’s Village in Zimbabwe, reports, “God’s love is so amazing. He has seen Khayelihle Children’s Village (KCV) through difficult times of harsh economy, bad weather and political instability. Warm-hearted people have continued to support us despite all odds, by providing us with seeds for crops and vegetables and with dairy cows. All these gifts have helped KCV to be what it is today. “Vegetables grown in the KCV garden include spinach, cabbages, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, green beans and onions. In the family unit gardens, which are supervised by the house mothers, children learn how to grow and nurture seeds so as to produce good vegetables. Crops such as maize and sorghum are also grown. Some of these are put into the silage pit to feed the dairy cows during winter and some is stored for the children’s consumption. These seeds go a long way in providing food for the children.
Celebration of Global Mission 2011 All are warmly invited to attend this year’s Celebration of Global Mission on Saturday 29 October, 10:30 am – 3:00 pm Northside Community Church, Crows Nest, New South Wales. The special guest speaker will be Hery Susanto, Academic Dean at the Bible College in Salatiga, Central Java.
The event will feature: • the new partnership with Indonesia • news from around the world including Bangladesh, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Sudan, Vanuatu, Vietnam and Zimbabwe • stories of local churches engaging in global mission Cost: $20 includes lunch and refreshments
“The gift of a dairy cow makes a big difference at KCV. A cow means more milk for the children and also generates income for the village. The dairy project is a core project for KCV. Currently, about 200 litres of milk are produced every day. The children have milk in their diet, which is especially good for our children who are on antiretroviral treatment.”
RSVP: Friday 21 October to:
The process of partnering overseas via a COCOA Great Gift is quite easy. You select a gift or gifts from the catalogue and send, fax or telephone the order to the GMP office. We receipt your tax deductible gift and send you a card including a picture of the gift for you to pass on to the person you have in mind. It may be for Christmas, a birthday, a thank you, an anniversary or any special occasion. Tell us what it is and we will print the card to suit you. You can also order online via our website at www.inpartnership.org.au. Your support means the ministry of COCOA continues to grow in its impact.
• Melbourne (Oct 23-25) contact info@inpartnership.org.au or 08 8212 4446 • Sydney (Oct 26-Nov 1) contact Colin Scott colin@gmp.org.au or 0401 671 349 • Perth (Nov 2-6) contact bevan@gmp.org.au or 0402 770 056
Australian Churches of Christ Global Mission Partners Inc, PO Box 6454 Halifax St, Adelaide or info@ inpartnership.org.au
Hery Susanto will also be sharing in:
Hery Susanto
Oct 2011
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Churches of Christ in Queensland positions available now Minister for Sunnybank Church of Christ The Sunnybank Church of Christ, in a southern suburb of Brisbane, seeks a full time minister who will coordinate the spiritual leadership, preaching, and its congregational care; officiate at weddings, conduct funerals, work with the elected leaders and fulfil any other duties mutually agreed upon.
Birthday celebrations at Bright Solutions Bright Solutions team celebrating its first birthday
The applicant should demonstrate that he is: • a devout follower of the Lord Jesus • a person of vision with a passion for growth, outreach, pastoral care • a man of prayer • a conservative evangelical comfortable with contemporary worship • able to relate to people of all ages and cultures with experience ministering to multicultures • a person with a high standard of integrity • respected by his wife and family • blessed with a sense of humour • experienced Minister (min five years pastoral experience, called by God to ministry with ability to lead • prepared to commit himself and his family to a long term ministry (5-10 years minimum) • able to demonstrate an ability to persevere • a minister recognised by the Churches of Christ Queensland. Applications close on 10 October 2011. No overseas applications will be considered.
More information about this church, the position advertised and the selection criteria are available from David Daniels on 07 3344 5152 or 0416 315 556. Email daviddaniels@optusnet.com.au or write to PO Box 3003 Sunnybank South, Qld 4109.
Volunteer needed for Vanuatu Churches of Christ Conference in Vanuatu (CCCV) is looking for a volunteer (preferably with a background in the Churches of Christ) to strengthen their operating systems, human resource practices and financial systems. Volunteers will be provided with a living and accommodation allowance, airfares, and insurance. Only citizens or permanent residents of Australia are eligible to apply for this assignment.
To find out more and how to apply for the role, visit www.australianvolunteers.com or contact Nancy Zele on nzele@australianvolunteers.com.
Bright Solutions (BSol) has just celebrated its first birthday. The celebrations included a traditional Vietnamese cake – always a favourite and enjoyed by all the team. Director Fiona Briers said it was a real joy to acknowledge BSol has been active for a year. “Some of the initial workers are still with the company and have been integral in sustaining its development,” she said. A special gift was a donated laptop, delivered along with chocolates and lots of encouragement, by some recent visitors to Bright Solutions. This computer is the first step towards establishing a small bank of computers to build basic computing skills for workers in the coming months. A new project that is currently being worked by the Bright Solutions’ staff is a variety of Christmas designs, which will supplement the interactive cloth books and animal pencil cases already available. The new products will be ready in a few weeks. There is ongoing training and a search for new workers to fit well with the Bright Solutions team. One lady has just commenced a new job in child care. A new coordinator has recently been appointed and a replacement cook found for the one who finished work at the end of last month. Fiona said she has begun new training sessions to build these women’s skills. “These are delightful times that really reveal a lot about the individual’s needs,” she said. A Micro Loan pilot program has also been developed to give practical support for women who regularly find themselves in debt crises. There is a commitment to work together through money management strategies. Bright Solutions seeks to make a practical difference in every area of life.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Call for mission-hearted people to volunteer for mission service in our developing churches and new pioneering work. Throughout Queensland we have a number of developing churches and new pioneering faith groups who need the assistance of mission hearted people to help them build their work for the Kingdom. If you are part of a larger established church, successful youth or other ministry, perhaps you should consider whether God is calling you to help in a situation where resources are more limited and your skills and passion for mission could be used to great effect. We have churches with great opportunity to impact local youth but no youth leaders, churches situated in communities with growing numbers of young families but no young families in their congregations and a host of other situations that I’m sure you know of. There are times in our lives when we need to be part of a larger congregation, need the fellowship of our long time friends and the nurture and discipleship teaching that our home Church provides. But sometimes we are just comfortable and ignoring God’s call on our lives to be sent out and engage vitally in the wider mission of establishing God’s kingdom.
We are seeking the assistance of mission hearted people
If you’re interested in exploring the opportunities for mission then why not get in touch with us and discuss what’s possible.
Why not send an email to Andrew.rienecker@cofcqld.com.au or call Andrew on 3363 1717 at the Mission Division to register your interest or make arrangements to meet with our team.
Open house at Bribie Island Retirement Village The Bribie Island open house day in August was a huge success with over 31 people visiting Churches of Christ Care Woorim and Bribie Island Villages. Retirement Living Coordinator at Bribie Island Village, Karen Tibbits said the open house days are for people interested in living in our villages. “We show them the quality of the re-furbished units available with a view to purchasing and to answer any questions they may have. This was our third open house day at both villages and we hold them six monthly,” she said. Morning tea was held in the Clubhouse prior to the tours with Karen and Belinda Rus as hosts. “We all enjoyed a lovely morning tea and lots of happy conversation with a lovely group of people. I’m sure the morning was enjoyed by all,” Karen said.
Oct 2011
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Girls’ Getaway Camp 2011 Coolum Be who you are Beautiful Coolum’s Luther Heights will be the venue for a weekend of sharing for a girl’s getaway. Registration for the Women’s Ministry Team annual girls’ getaway from 21 – 23 October is open. Come and renew old friendships, make new ones and enjoy the company of like-minded women while listening to guest artist Kylie Vincent and guest speaker Pam Hine as she shares her adventures. Pam’s life changed 15 years ago when God’s calling turned her life around. Since February this year, Pam and her husband Gary have been serving the Lord as part of the ‘itinerant’ outback ministers. Kylie leads the worship team at Ann St Churches of Christ, is involved in small group ministry and mentors a group of indigenous girls.
Call Elaine Hales to register on 3314 0297 or email elainehales@optusnet.com.au
Centenary Home Loans is your dedicated lending service provider and was set up by Churches of Christ in Queensland almost 10 years ago. Our purpose is to provide staff, families and friends with a professional brokerage service that can source outstanding loans and provide unmatched service and advice for all our clients. One of the most tangible benefits of Centenary Home Loans is the fact that at no extra cost each loan helps Churches of Christ reach out and do more in our communities.
Why let the bank profit from your loan?
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Use Centenary Home Loans and let your loan impact God’s Kingdom. As a fully accredited member of the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) you can rest assured our advice and service is professional, personal and market leading. For some essential information about lending, as well as the benefits of an MFAA accredited broker, go to www.essentialsofborrowing.com.au.
For more information on Centenary Development Foundation phone (local call) 1300 659 644 Phone: (07) 3327 1628 Fax: (07) 3378 1334 Email: info@cdf.org.au or go to www.cdf.org.au.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Churches of Christ Theological College changes name At its meeting on 16 August 2011 the Board of the Churches of Christ Theological College (CCTC) made the historic decision to change the name of the college in honour of former graduate and vice-principal, Gordon R Stirling. From 1 October 2011 the college will be known as Stirling Theological College. Name changes are indeed a rare occurrence in the college’s 104 years of training people for leadership and ministry. Originally known as the College of the Bible when founded in 1907, the college adopted its current name (CCTC) when it moved to the Mulgrave premises in 1989. Andrew Ball, Chairperson for the Council of Churches of Christ in Australia said, "Gordon Stirling passionately pursued his love for people and God through ministry across Churches of Christ in Australia. He was a wonderful minister who deeply believed in the potential of all people for ministry in God's service. This name change is not just in honour of Gordon, it ushers in a new era for the college in encouraging a new generation to offer themselves in service for God's kingdom." “We enter this new era as Stirling Theological College: a Ministry of the Churches of Christ excited by the opportunities before us. We exist for the development of God’s people as ministers, leaders and servants towards the full potential that is ours to imagine, as the Church of Christ.”
In the life and ministry of the Churches of Christ there have been two national voices. The Australian Christian was a prominent source of national conversation as was the theological college. As a former editor of the Australian Christian and former vice-principal of the College the name Stirling can remain in the movement’s lexicon as it embodies
the love of Christ into the future. Gordon Stirling’s three daughters have given their permission and blessing to the use of their family name in this way. Board Chairperson John Sharpe said, “It has not been an easy or rash decision to consider a name change, but as a Board and faculty we remain committed to encouraging the best in practical ministry formation in all of the variety that the 21st century demands. The name change powerfully signifies the flavour, the feeling, the passion, the imagination and articulate witness of the College in service to the diversity of our movement of churches across the nation and also our witness ecumenically, across the Tasman and into our emerging partnerships internationally. “Gordon’s significant pastoral ministry, inspirational leadership and Christ-centred witness capture exactly what our processes are about. My favourite image of Gordon comes from my own church’s 90th anniversary in 2009 where Gordon was interviewed by a year seven girl. There was something about the quickness of mind, the sharp contemporary witness, grace, wisdom and cross generational momentum in Gordon that I would want to see captured by every one called into Christian leadership and formation. The name encapsulates our intention, our interest in people, our faithfulness to Christ and our commitment to the future.” Paul Cameron, Executive Officer for the Churches of Christ in Vic/Tas said “G.R. Stirling was committed to forming healthy and growing minister-leaders prepared to get their hands dirty in the lives of people and neighbourhoods as they, like him, simply lived out and explained the story of Jesus where they were. This name change honours and celebrates a person who lived out the deeper story of our movement while calling us to unite around this common story. It is also a tangible way for the Stirling legacy to live on, in and through a theological college committed to inspiring, encouraging, equipping, and walking alongside people preparing for mission and ministry leadership.”
Oct 2011
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Singer Kate Miller-Heidke visits Boondall
Surfs up at Southport for Boardies Day For the third year in a row, Churches of Christ Care’s Early Childhood Centre Southport, has donned their boardies to support the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. The club has a special link with the early childhood service Manager Robyn Pointing, whose family has been members of the club for three generations. “Each year, we raise money for the club through our Boardies Day. Over the years, we have raised money to purchase a rescue tube, which has been a great way to reinforce with the children how valuable their contribution is,” Robyn said.
If you do not have a teenage grandchild or a young person in your household, you are excused if you have not heard of Kate Miller-Heidke. Boondall Church of Christ was lucky to have a visit from the internationally acclaimed songstress during August. Attending with her grandmother, mother and brother, Kate delighted the service by singing ‘Ave Maria’ and her popular song ‘Ducks don’t need satellites’. Kate and her husband Keir Nutall were the first Australians to win the grand prize at the 2009 International Song Writing Contest for ‘Caught in the Crowd’, which is about not bowing to peer pressure in the case of bullying in the school playground. The year they won, the judges had to filter through 15,500 songs from 100 countries. Contest founder Candace Avery said the song:
“This year we have raised enough to help the club purchase either an oxygen cylinder or neck brace – or to contribute to the general provision of services. One of the highlights of Boardies Day is a visit from Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club members. Robyn said the members come out to the centre to interact with the children and share valuable surf safe messages. “In September, a life saver spent the morning interacting with the children and taking part in activities such as making a red/yellow flag. This served as an informal opportunity to discuss the importance of the flag and cover valuable surf safety information,” Robyn said. “Our parents and children joined in to support surf lifesaving by wearing boardies or red/yellow clothing as well as giving a gold coin donation. The children are more aware of the role of surf lifesavers as valuable community members who not only supervise the water, but can help them if they are lost as well as providing first aid when needed.”
“... tugs at my heart and gives me chills every time I hear it. Its theme is so personal yet universal that everyone can relate to it. Combined with its infectious melody, makes the song a stand-out.”
On the 4 September for Fathers Day, Boondall had two Queensland Grandfathers of the Year attend. John Brown (2008, who was 99 on 8 September, and Ivan Wall (2005) recited two Christian poems to the delight of the church.
For the third year in a row, Churches of Christ Care’s Early Childhood Centre Southport has donned their boardies to support the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
New vehicle branding causing a ‘ruckus’ Keep an eye out for Churches of Christ Care’s new vehicle branding as it rolls out over the next 12 months. Already on the road on Bribie Island is the new white Toyota Rukus and it is attracting a lot of interest. Colleen Rawson, Bribie Island’s Community Aged Care Coordinator, said there have been people chasing after the cars. “They want to know who we are and what we are doing,” Colleen said. “I think the new branding is striking and it is certainly getting attention.” The new branding is an integral element of the 20112016 Strategic Plan to increase awareness of the work we are doing and to present a consistent corporate identity.
Connecting globally while playing locally Over 8,500 children can’t be wrong. All of these children have taken part in the holiday program called KidsGames and had a great time. A multi-day sport focused program, KidsGames is designed for kids to have fun, focusing on involvement rather than excellence, while learning about God’s love for them. Operating across Queensland for over 10 years, KidsGames runs every two years for primary schoolaged children over the winter school holidays. Operators Manager for Brisbane KidsGames, Terry Williams, said that KidsGames is an opportunity for the church to engage with children, in the context of fun and games, and to impart something of the values of the Kingdom of God.
“The KidsGames vision is to see all children united globally, learning, and playing together, to bring about personal, spiritual, and community transformation,” Terry said. “KidsGames is a strategy rather than a set program. All training, curriculum and resources are provided which churches can take, use and adapt to meet their church’s and community’s needs.
“It is empowering local churches to shape a program that will meet the needs of their local community. It is not a boxed program that is prescriptive in nature but rather a full range of curriculum, sports, games, craft ideas and more that can be shaped locally. “Because it is so devolved and organic, KidsGames has now spread to nearly 200 countries around the world so when children are involved in KidsGames here in Queensland they are actually a part of a KidsGames global phenomenon which is happening in almost every country.”
For more information about a KidsGames near to you visit www.kidsgamesqld.com.au or ring 3112 6491
Oct 2011
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High praise for great service and community spirit Joan Scott
It does not matter how old or young you are, change is always challenging especially when you have to move from the place you have always called home. And what makes or breaks the move into a new home is the people who make up the community you move into.
For one of Bribie Island Village’s newest residents, Joan Scott, it has been the staff and other residents that have made her move smooth sailing. And she feels so strongly about what a great community it is, she put fingers to keyboard to write a letter expressing how happy she is.
Joan said that after six months she just wanted to share her thoughts and feelings with the staff to let them know how much she loves living at Bribie Island Village. “I love my room: it is home. I love the garden in the front and my little verandah where I have my coffee most mornings ... and sometimes a drink in the afternoon. The atmosphere is wonderful and I could not ask for better neighbours,” she wrote. Joan’s letter talked about the friendliness of the residents who have helped her settle in by making her feel so welcome. “Susie is giving me great hints for my computer use; Lynn is sorting out my genealogy and when these two throw up their arms, Ross comes in and sorts it all out,” she wrote. But Joan’s highest praise was saved for the Village’s Retirement Living Coordinator Karen Tibbits and her team. “I am very happy and content, and for this I thank you as it was all your doing. My last comments are for three special members of your staff - Justine, Dawn and Christine... they go way beyond the call of duty. They are kind and caring, and always ready to help. We are all blessed to have them with us,” she wrote.
New set of wheels on trip to see whales – By Shirley Strickland On a perfect September morning, a group of Bribie Island Village residents headed for the wharf at Mooloolaba excitedly looking forward to a whale experience on ‘Whale One’ the boat formerly owned by the late Steve Irwin. There was double excitement because this was the first social trip our newly acquired village bus. It’s predecessor, purchased through the great efforts of earlier fundraising, had served the Village residents faithfully for many years, but, like so many of us, was showing the strains of time and due for retirement. The combination of ideal weather conditions, an excellent boat with a professional and capable crew, the wonder of whales, and the experience of travelling in the new bus brought everyone home with reports that it was a thoroughly enjoyable day. The comfort of this bus, provided by Churches of Christ Care, is appreciated by all residents, and they look forward to enjoying its convenience, which includes provision for two wheelchairs, on many future outings.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
National Volunteer Awards nominations open
others to join their cause; and they undertake their tasks selflessly and without the purpose of material gain.
Recognising service to the community
Nominations are now open. Award ceremonies are to be held on or around the International Volunteer Day on Saturday 5 December 2011. Ten award winners in each electorate will be recognised. For more information about the awards or to get a nomination form, please call your local federal member.
The Minister for Social Inclusion, Tanya Plibersek MP, has announced an awards campaign to recognise Volunteers are unsung heroes individuals who give up their free time to who make an deliver services outstanding contribution to their local community through volunteering. To be eligible for an award, volunteers should be widely recognised as being significant contributors to their communities, their contribution of time and effort sets an example to other volunteers; they provide guidance to other volunteers and encourage
National Volunteer Awards Award categories include: • MP’s Volunteer of the Year Award • Junior Volunteer Award (17 and under) • Young Volunteer Award (18-25) • Education Award • Environment Award • Long-term Commitment to Community Service Award • Business Volunteer Award • Innovation in Volunteering Award – organisation/ individual • New Organisation Award • Emergency Management Award
Fresh Horizons Ministry – on the move Our goal: Merryl Lynch statistics show that over 50% of baby boomers want to keep working in retirement. Some through necessity, some want to launch into a new business or career and others want to keep active in part time jobs that allow flexibility. Fresh Horizons Ministry is keen to see the same trend happen with Christian boomers through continued active participation in church life and leadership and in forming vital new connections with their community. Conferences: In August, Fresh Horizons hosted two conferences for those embracing the new wave of ministry to those in life’s second half. Tauranga in New Zealand’s north island was the host city for the first New Zealand conference of this kind in the country. A local board working in cooperation with Fresh Horizons Australia staged a fantastic event over two days that drew close to 100 pastors, church leaders and interested Christians from around New Zealand. The following week, Caloundra City in south east Queensland hosted their second Australian Conference with over 60 leaders, ministers and interested Christians from as far away as Victoria attending. Both conferences benefitted from the insights of keynote speaker Ward Tanneberg (USA) who focused on the topic ‘Influencing the Generations’. A variety
of relevant electives were offered and well received that included the topics ‘Jesus and women in today’s world’, ‘Positioning and equipping your church to reach and mobilise baby boomers’ and ‘Accentuating the positive.’ A valuable feature of both conferences was the panel of practitioners who are successfully involved in second half ministries. New Zealand’s panel featured Tom Frew, a Baptist pastor, whose entire ministry focus is on building a vibrant congregation of over 50s. Nan Kingston-Smith focused on health and fitness while Denise Whitehead is involved with the Tauranga City Council exploring the concept of global age friendly cities. Australia’s panel included Bruce Murray who is involved in the Rivers and Lakes model of reaching cross generationally into the community, Ross Morgan is refocusing his ageing congregation to re-engage in play groups and the Kids Hope mentoring program and Mark Wall is addressing men’s health issues through a growing Men’s Shed ministry. Future: Plans are already being made for August 2012 conferences so if you missed out this year plan on attending next year. Keep checking the website for updates as they come to hand.
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Christian counsellors and psychologists break new ground Compassion Services is a Christian counselling and psychological organisation prepared to make a stand for Christ. Our staff are committed practising Christians unashamed of their faith, with a passion for those suffering mental health issues. Compassion Services has four branches – Mudgeeraba, Southport, Helensvale and Springwood. There are plans for a further three branches to be opened covering Cairns, Townsville and the Sunshine Coast regions. While we work with many churches, 75% of our clients are non-church people, who have confidence in working with Christian counsellors because of the security they feel in knowing that we have sound morals and values. We have regular opportunities to show Jesus to our clients at their request. We have specialist psychologists covering clinical psychology, organisational psychology, educational psychology, sports psychology and general psychology. Our counselling division deals with many relationship issues, pre-marriage counselling, child therapy including sand and art therapy, addictions, disorders, youth concerns, teen suicide, phobias and many more presenting issues. Our psychologists are able to bulk bill you if you have a referral from your GP.
E-Therapy now available E-Therapy is now available anywhere in Australia – video counselling over the internet – ideal for remote communities, clients who are not able to see a counsellor during office hours, or have an illness that prevents them being able to see a counsellor. Call on 1300 552 367 and reach for life.
Support for Scripture Union Chaplains Compassion Services provides free supervision and support for Scripture Union Chaplains because the work SU Chappies provides is essential in our schools. A Chaplain’s ministry is difficult at times and they need support in their own lives so that they can maintain resilience and perspective. As an organisation, Compassion Services feels that part of giving to local communities is to provide that support
at no cost even though we continue to pay our staff for their time and efforts. If you would like to ‘adopt’ a Chaplain to financially support or to contribute to this work, gifts of $2.00 or greater are fully tax deductable – please call our office to ask any questions that you might have relating to our Chaplaincy Support Programs. We also support and work with Watoto, Focus on the Family, the National Youth Workers Convention, Youth for Christ and others who seek to provide services to our communities and to be a signpost to our Lord. Adopt a Chaplain today – for $70.00 per month you can build into the life of your local Chaplain and the schools that they represent. Help feed the homeless or perhaps provide nappies for struggling families – toiletries and most basic needs are covered. We have a constant stream of callers every day seeking our help and support – please pray about joining us in this work. Call us on 1300 552 367 and reach for life.
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference News
Compassion Services Reaching for Life At Compassion Services we will provide you with strategies for working through your challenges and resources for the future. With highly trained male and female counsellors and psychologists, Compassion Services Group works with couples and families to deal with the daily pressures that we all confront from time to time.
why relationship counselling? • A lack of trust between two partners • Frequent arguments, or a repeated argument about the same issue(s) • Sexuality, infidelity or an affair • Feeling disconnected from your partner • Unfulfilled emotional needs; feeling hurt, angry, neglected or disrespected • Differences in sexual desire • A change in circumstance – such as a birth of a baby
Appointments: Ph 1300 552 367 or www.compassionservices.com.au
Geoff Bullock: new ambassador for Compassion Services Geoff Bullock, founder of Hillsong's Music Australia and convener of the annual Hillsong Conference, is the ambassador for Compassion Services. Having personal experience dealing with mental health issues, Geoff is a strong advocate for Christian counselling. Geoff will be partnering with Compassion Services to draw attention to the area of mental health, particularly church acceptance of an illness, which once was a taboo subject. After eight years in Hillsong Church as Sydney’s Worship Pastor, Geoff decided to move on and expand his influence as a songwriter and communicator to the broader Christian community. However, for a number of years his life encountered brokenness and disappointment. During this time Geoff became acutely aware of the unmerited grace, mercy, forgiveness and love that we find in Jesus. He emerged with a passion to communicate this grace through his songs and CDs, his writings and his stories. In 1998, his first book Hands of Grace was released with great success. In 2000, he followed with Power of your love: Jesus, the unexpected God, which was short listed for the Australian Christian Book 2000-2001.
Compassion Services will be presenting a number of weekend events featuring Geoff and his worship seminars and concerts. For more information, contact Compassion Services on 1300 552 367. To understand more about Geoff’s current work, feel free to visit www.geoffbullock.com
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Workshop with Peter Janetzki Queensland Institute of Clinical Pastoral Education Counsellors invites you to hear from Peter Janetzki where he will talk about ‘How Family of Origin Impacts in the Present’. Peter is a counsellor and educator in private practice highly recognised and regarded within the counselling community for his wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals, couples and families in the important areas of relationships, sexuality, masculinity and conflict. Date: Tuesday 18th October 2011 Time: 9.00am to 12.30pm (registration from 8.30am) Venue: Chermside Kedron Uniting Church, Cnr Gympie and Rode Roads, Chermside Cost: $35 QICPE members $40 non-members – morning tea included RSVP: 14 October to Noela Fanshawe, QICPE Secretary on 3378 4778 or n@modratec.com Payment: payment before 18 October would be appreciated) • Cheque made payable to QICPE Inc – QICPE Secretary, 24 Blackstone St, Indooroopilly 4068 • Direct Deposit to QICPE Inc BSB 034 072, Account No. 186321 • Cash/Cheque on workshop day Tax Invoices available. Please contact treasurer@qicpe.com
Gordon Stirling’s Tertius books released Author, teacher and Christian statesman, Gordon Stirling’s books are being released and are available from Churches of Christ in Australia. For many years, a popular feature of The Australian Christian was ‘Letters from Tertius’. The identity of Tertius was a well-kept secret, but it was later revealed to be Gordon Stirling, who inspired many throughout Churches of Christ in Australia and New Zealand. Mr Stirling passed away late last year, but his legacy – his writing and his book Life of Tertius – are still around to inspire and encourage. Before he died, Mr Stirling was working on a sequel to Life of Tertius. The Stirling family, with help from Beth Butler, are releasing Tertius Revisited and re-releasing Life of Tertius. The books can be purchased from the Council of Churches of Christ in Australia and all proceeds from the sales of the book will go to future reprints and the Fred Hollows Foundation.
Tertius Revisited will cost $15 + postage, and Life of Tertius will cost $15 + postage. If you order both books, the price will be $25 + postage. To purchase, please contact Craig Brown on (03) 9488 8800 or craig@australianchristian.org.au.
NAB Education and Community
Invitation Winning Grants
Address the funding needs of your organisation Don’t miss the opportunity of a hands-on interactive
workshop the experts from GrantReady. How towith write winning grants
Date:
Friday 28 October 2011
Time:
9.00am – 11.30am (morning tea will be served)
The National Australia Bank isworkshop holdingtoahelp freestrengthen workshop on 28 October to help community organisations We invite you to attend a tailored Registration at 9.00am your chances with grants and funding programs. Presentation at 9.30am sharp increase their chances of winning grants. This workshop break down and demystify the complicated Venue: NAB Time: 9.00amwill – 11.30am (morning tea will be served); Registration at 9.00am; Presentation at 9.30am sharp world of grants and will help expand your knowledge on how to
find, qualify win 23, grants. alsoStreet get hints and help with Venue: NABand Level 100You’ll Creek Brisbane QLD 4000 writing grants, and gain insight into the mind of a grant
Level 23, 100 Creek Street Brisbane QLD 4000
RSVP: Friday 21 October 2011 Ifadministrator. you would like to attend, RSVP by 21 October to rod.j.morris@nab.com.au.
Rod Morris rod.j.morris@nab.com.au
Churches of Christ in Queensland Networking Conference NewsPlease advise if you have any special dietary requirements
Evangelist with a paintbrush The Historical Committee fondly remembers Bill Finger
Bill was a part of the Church of Christ family for many years, with many significant moments in his life centred on the church community. He met Amy, his wife of 64 years, at the Hawthorne Church and married at
Bill Finger was a sign-writer by trade, who for over 40 years used his skill with the paintbrush to write inspirational and profound messages for the sign that hung outside the Church of Christ on the busy Annerley Road. Every fortnight, a new sign appeared featuring topical messages. During a torrid state election campaign, the sign for the fortnight said, “He who slings mud loses ground.” It was during the ministry of Vic Parker at Annerley that Bill, the church secretary, started using his ‘Wayside Pulpit’. The displays outside the church attracted attention from passers-by, pedestrians and motorists. Bill’s wife, Amy, recalls how impacting Bill’s signs were – enough to stop conversations. She remembers a day when she overhead a woman waiting for the bus, stop mid-conversation, because she wanted to read the new sign outside the church. Mrs Finger was proud to tell the ladies that her husband was the author. Bill was born in Mackay, but moved to Brisbane after the family farm was wiped out by a cyclone. He worshipped at Annerley Church of Christ from the age of seven, which is now the home of his artistic legacy featuring 250 of his signs in the hall.
Annerley. Bill became Sunday school superintendent, presided at the communion table and assisted on the construction of the new church at Moorooka. Bill and Amy’s daughter, Glynthea, served in Papua New Guinea as a volunteer missionary and taught at the former College of the Bible at Glen Iris. Amy and Bill’s son, Jarvis is highly regarded in educational circles. One of the many souls who were helped by the messages on Bill’s signs was a young man, a signwriter, who sat in the hotel opposite the church. Trying to find some relief from boredom and frustration, he spied one of Bills’ sign that said, “Failure is never final.” He came to church and Vic Parker led him to Christ. That young fellow became secretary of one of our local churches, married a Christian lass and they both faithfully served Jesus Christ with dedicated lives. Following a call from the Youth Department at the time, Bill took over as superintendent of Rocklea’s Sunday school. He later served at Salisbury, the church that was wiped out during the 1974 Brisbane floods. This gifted man of God used his talents to make the Gospel relevant and we pay this tribute to one who indeed was an ‘evangelist with a paint brush’.
Oct 2011
27
Dates to remember
October
November
December
January February March
1
International Day of Older Persons
5-8
National Youth Ministry Convention
16-22
Anti-Poverty Week
17-23
Carers Week
21-23
Children’s Week
22-30
Girls Getaway Camp 2011 Coolum
28-29 6
Global Leadership Summit Grandparents Day
11-12
Centrifuge Conference Gympie
12
Annual General Meeting - Cooloola Christian College (1 College Road, Gympie)
12
Church of Christ Gympie 125th Celebration Dinner
19
Forget Me Knot day
20 5
Universal Children’s Day International Volunteer Day
17
Christmas in the Park – celebrating the birth of Jesus
25 1
Christmas Day New Years Day
21
Harmony Day
31
Earth Hour
Networking – Conference News
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rence News
Networking Confe JUNE 2011 - Volume A meme
2 Issue 6
Churches of Christ
in Queensland
In this edition
1. Executive Director’s update Day of 2. Statewide Prayer Games 2. State Youth e update 3. Conferenc 4. Board update
through a culture, that spreads may not be true, idea or belief meme may or A meme is an hold like a virus. A unshakeable replicating itself point. Either way, it takes absolutely the hold it as being but that's not d by those who refugees. Political belief about and is understoo the 5. Mission update example is the expressing it plainly, but true. A current many from real risk of 6. ACOM update that we are at in correctness prevents in many quarters (with terrorists belief prevails Muslims and their families 6. Women’s Ministry wreck our way by our taxes and being flooded Christ and will sponge off 7. Churches of of this meme their midst) who stop the boats. the strength refugees we the house know of life unless with scenes of of sides on both to be confronted Christ by riots representatives 8. Churches of traumatised also don't want Our political children being but most of us a Care staff in India accordingly; up on rocks or leaders to find and respond a boats that break agonising attempts by our course from of is church who arrive. It families drowning witness the 9. Bribie Island on centres. So we deals with those refugees are not based church at detention to yet decently fear and self stops the boats 10. Browns Plains beliefs and responses on film clips, position that peoples' primarily most but are based us" was challenged complex problem, experience. They repel anyone who is "not 10. Update from 10 details or first hand example. Acts to shun and any real data Townsville church as one well known up and challenge policy this primal instinct Yet, Samaritan step Good interest. is to similarly the story of the 11. Gatton flood us as Christians by Jesus, with and love. reflections challenge before fear instead of wisdom by another. The that have deep memes) motivated or are s be of Brisbane hold to (narrative responses that 11. 100 years of about other stories of doing things that people ways North Churches in many forums d is 70 churches - beliefs and I have spoken of Christ in Queenslan Christ in of Christ within the church nts Churches Churches that that undercurre about the story it to the story communities and compared ly impacting true. I have spoken 12. ‘Service and of caring services, kingdom outposts significant to live in profoundly Inspiration’ with a range story we choose Churches of Christ in made up of 210+ true. But the for Queensland is strategic plan Both stories are The mission 12. GMP update responses. Our around the state. this second story. identity and shaped out of services is of Christ years is being shapes our thinking, with our care 13. Churches the next 3-5 together again and working Care update Queensland over local churches initiatives with RV fete Bribie Island exciting. 13. ly wonderful ED awards For many, ‘church’ 15. Aged Care ing of church. to Thinking about and understand are not We talk of "going are our beliefs 16. Real prayers the above stories a gathering on Sunday morning.on Sunday morning. Other Interwoven in words this go to understood as y night - but the place we Life church is mainly our thinking of "church" is a service on Wednesda if you're in 16. National Church - for example, church" because morning (or 10am during the week 9am on Sunday Survey things may happen Real church happens at g Christian is not real church. word 'ekklesia' 17. Counsellin from the Greek Christ's church Melbourne). is translated women meaning to 'call'. call of God New Testament 'church' in the 'out' and 'kaleo' the in the Park Yet the word 17. Christmas words 'ek' meaning who have chosen to follow baptizing them in two from taught, up of people which comes and other events what Christ has Christ ) is made and teach others (the Church of events love one another 17-20. Upcoming Holy Spirit. to love God, and Son the Father, the name of 20. Dates to remember Build on THE Foundation
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