Insights - June/July 2016

insights J U N E /J U LY 2016

COME HOLY SPIRIT, RENEW OUR HEARTS WELCOMING REV. SIMON HANSFORD, THE MODERATOR ELECT GETTING ON BOARD – TEACHING REFUGEES TO SURF 1

INSIGHTS

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W E L C O M E F RO M T H E G E N E R A L S E C R E TA R Y

Leadership must be led by change Synod has come and gone for another 18 months. For some time yet we will be processing decisions and ideas that emerged but, at this stage, the feedback has been positive.

REV. DR ANDREW WILLIAMS GENERAL SECRETARY

THE GENERAL SECRETARY IS APPOINTED BY THE SYNOD TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP TO THE CHURCH BY ACTIVELY ENGAGING IN STRATEGIC THINKING ABOUT THE LIFE, DIRECTION, VISION AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH

In reporting to the Synod this year, I spoke of the challenges we face, particularly in the areas of governance and leadership.

I reflected that our Synod is not alone in addressing these issues and there is much discussion among Synod leaders about these particular themes.

One learning from our ongoing sharing has been that there is a variety of systems and styles among the various UCA Synods.

Each Synod manages to interpret the Constitution and regulations to suit its needs and context, yet each Synod is also struggling with how to work a complex system that has its genesis nearly half a century ago.

It is clear that as a Church, we do a good job of building systems of checks and balances to assure us that no one can tell us what to do! We have developed a system of leadership that is shared rather than being the province of a single person.

At the same time, we long for leaders and feel that we are in a crisis because of the lack of leadership in our Church today.

This hunger for leadership is intense in our local Congregations as well as in our Assembly, Synod and Presbytery offices.

In Congregation after Congregation, there is a deeply felt need for a strong witness to the community and the world, for spiritual and numerical growth, and for renewal.

There is a hunger for ministers and leaders who can spark and empower that renewal, and a growing sense that we don’t have the leaders that we need.

It also strikes me as odd how resistant to change we are. We who claim to be “reformed and always reforming”, who will keep our “law under constant review so that our life may increasingly be directed to the service of God and humanity, and in its worship to a true and faithful setting forth of, and response to, the gospel of Christ.”

And, yet, how very human.

Change is hard, uncomfortable, disruptive and especially difficult for those of us who still hold in our minds a vision I have often heard people remark that churches do not of our being successful, like change; that they provide mainstream and admired.

It is for this reason that we refuge from change, or that need a collective leadership they resist change. (I may have made these comments that is courageous enough to look forward, set bold new myself!) But, in the end, I cannot figure this out. In the directions, connect people at the level of their deepest New Testament, Jesus asks everyone to change. With the hopes and aspirations, believe the transformation exception of children, Jesus is possible, and embrace a insists that every person he fresh collective purpose and meets do something and way of doing things. change, in response to Him. The whole message of the Christian scripture is based on the idea of metanoia — the change of heart that happens when we meet God face-to-face. Even a cursory knowledge of history reveals that Christianity is a religion about change.

The Christian faith always changes — even when some of its adherents claim that it does not!

The conversations on governance and leadership in our Church will therefore continue and be informed by the various discussions that have gone on. But we will also need the courage to let go of that which holds us back — to allow us to change for the good of God’s mission among us.

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Contents 14 C OV E R S TO R Y As Synod 2016 came to a close, a shared sense of vitality and hope filled the Great Hall at Knox Grammar School. It had been an optimistic and collaborative Synod on a scale never seen before. If change is what the future holds, Synod 2016 represented a step in the right direction.

REGULARS 3

WELCOME

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LETTERS

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NEWS

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LECTIONARY REFLECTIONS

41

FELLOWSHIP NEWS

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BELIEF MATTERS

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CULTURE WATCH

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ENTERTAIN ME

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THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA IS ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S LARGEST DENOMINATIONS. OUR VISION IS THAT IT WILL BE A FELLOWSHIP OF RECONCILIATION, LIVING GOD'S LOVE, FOLLOWING JESUS CHRIST AND ACTING FOR THE COMMON GOOD TO BUILD A JUST AND COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITY OF FAITH.

MANAGING EDITOR Adrian Drayton PRODUCTION/DESIGN/EDITING Belle&Co SUB-EDITING Ben McEachen EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING/ DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES PHONE 02 8267 4304 FAX 02 9264 4487 ADDRESS Insights, PO Box A2178, Sydney South, NSW, 1235 EMAIL insights@nsw.uca.org.au WEB www.insights.uca.org.au Insights is published by the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of New South Wales and the ACT. Articles and advertising content do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or of the Uniting Church. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Australia $38.50 (incl. GST); overseas $50. © 2016. Contents copyright. No material from this publication may be copied, photocopied or transmitted by any means without the permission of the Managing Editor. CIRCULATION: 16,000. ISSN: 1036-7322 Commonwealth of Australia 2016

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M O D E R ATO R ’S REFLECTION

Asking, seeking and knocking for relationship renewal The experience of Synod 2016 was a truly blessed one for me, as I hope it was for those who attended (and those who heard about or read the stories and reports of the Synod meeting). I thank the Synod members — and everyone in our Synod — for prayers before, during and after our gathering.

REV. MYUNG HWA PARK MODERATOR

THE MODERATOR IS ELECTED TO GIVE GENERAL AND PASTORAL LEADERSHIP TO THE SYNOD, ASSISTING AND ENCOURAGING EXPRESSION AND FULFILMENT OF FAITH, AND THE WITNESS OF THE CHURCH.

At the opening service, the sound of clay being smashed by a hammer reminded us of the broken promises that require our serious confession. And that following confession comes forgiveness, and resolution to move on and do better.

renew our hearts. We sought God’s wisdom for us to follow God’s mission. We knocked on the door of God’s kingdom for the future.

During the Open Space sessions, 310 people heard 64 exciting ideas to renew our Church. From this list, 19 special projects were decided upon, beginning with next generation leadership, making a space and time to hear wisdom from our First People, maintaining a healthy climate, and teaching spiritual practices in our Church.

I was still excited about the renewing Spirit of God during Synod, when I went to the Uniting Women Conference The theme of Synod 2016 was ‘Come Holy Spirit. Renew in Adelaide (28 April to1 May). This was another our Hearts!’ This is nothing but a prayer; a deep yearning wonderful experience.

God’s Spirit was celebrated, for a renewed relationship with God, with each other and cherished and proclaimed by strong, intelligent, faithful with the earth. and beautiful women of the This prayer encourages each Uniting Church from across Australia, along with our of us to ask ourselves some partner churches in Kiribati, questions. What is in us that Zimbabwe and Tonga. requires renewal; what is in our Church that needs to be The first Uniting Women renewed; and what about Conference was held in God’s earth?

Sydney in 2014, when 500 Our teacher Jesus said, “Ask, women were invited to share their stories of God in their and it shall be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, lives. The stories of those and it will be opened to you.” women have now led to more stories of hope shared by 400 (Matthew 7:7) This simple women this year in Adelaide! teaching stays as just words, merely a suggestion, if we What a Spirit-filled church we don’t put it into action. are when we are open to the Synod 2016 put this teaching Spirit of God and prepared to share our stories. For we are into action. We asked God to

the bearers of God’s image and proclaim that God is in us and we are in God. Is this the time Jesus referred to when he said, “On that day you will realise that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you”? (John 14:20) I am deeply grateful to the Synod Spirituality Committee, which encourages the ministers in our Presbyteries to visit a wellspring like the Kaltara Retreat. Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, it is no longer good for anything.” (Matthew 5:13) We must never forget the need to encourage each other, for who we are and for whose we are. The Synod Spirituality Committee provides various information of deepening our spirituality, day retreats, women’s retreats, Christian meditation, and peer-support programs.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, let us together respond to the invitation of God’s mission as we pray: “Come Holy Spirit, renew our hearts, renew your church, renew the Earth!”

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Your say THE IMMORALITY OF GLOBAL C L I M AT E A L A R M I S M

In response to the seven letter writers [who responded in April/May Insights, to Rod McLeod’s letter in February/March edition] I say, with respect: Show me the evidence that turning coal into electricity is detrimentally affecting the world’s many different climates. Consensus amongst scientists and researchers is not evidence. The scientific method does not recognise consensus, only evidence.

Wind and solar electricity generation survives in developed countries because governments pay large subsidies, and there are coal and nuclear-fuelled grids in place, providing the reliable 24-hour, every-day electricity needed for essential services.

A THOUGHTFUL A N D G R AC I O U S TRIBUTE

Just wanted to say what a beautiful way [The General Secretary, Rev. Andrew William’s column, Insights, April/May] incorporated Bill Clarke’s own words into his column. It was a thoughtful and gracious tribute. I don’t know how much feedback you get each month but I just wanted to take a moment to pass on my thanks.

Kathryn Wyndham

PRIVILEGED TO AT T E N D

A couple of weeks ago I was privileged to attend the Synod for NSW and the ACT. Wow, was it amazing!

Colleen Geyer, General Secretary of the Uniting Church in Australia

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Climate alarmists tell us that solar power is free, ‘clean’, and inexhaustible. It is none of these. It is only possible where governments can afford subsidies. Solar power requires building infrastructure, and this increases, rather than reduces, carbon dioxide emissions — offsetting any reductions.

As with solar power, wind power requires infrastructure building and carbon dioxide production, which largely offsets reductions. Wind turbines utilise rare earth magnets; mining of rare earth elements for turbines carries the risk of serious environmental pollution.

Wind turbines inflict environmental damage, killing birds and bats, including endangered species. They must be built on sites exposed to strong winds, usually on hills and often spoiling areas of great natural beauty. There is a limit to the number of sites where wind farms could be productive.

The scientific position is that global climate disaster, due to carbon dioxide emissions from turning coal into electricity, is an unproven hypothesis that does not accord with the evidence of geology and history. For those who continue to beat the climate disaster drum, there is a moral question. Is it moral to deny the poor of the world affordable electricity on the basis of an unproved theory and, thus, condemn them to eternal poverty?

Rod McLeod, Eastwood

I N S P I R AT I O N AND HOPE WILL RESOUND

I wanted just to thank the General Secretary and the Secretariat for the Synod meeting. It was inspiring and hope-giving. You should be pleased, and proud, of creating such a gathering.

It will resonate in the wider Church for some time, I am sure. Thanks also to the great team who organised the event. They worked so hard and made the whole thing go so well.

Synod attendee

BLESSED BY O P E N S PAC E

I wanted to simply say what a wonderful Synod to be part of. To sit and listen to the final ‘Open Space’ was such a blessing for a President that believes in God’s transforming purposes at work amongst us. To know that the Spirit is moving and we are becoming a truly ‘intercultural community’ — a fellowship of reconciliation.

Stuart McMillan, President of the Uniting Church in Australia

T H A N K YO U

Be rewarded for having Your Say. Every contributor to ‘Your Say’ in this issue receives a DVD pack containing Risen and Miracles From Heaven from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Your Say letters should be sent to insights@ nswact.uca.org.au or posted to Insights, PO Box A2178, Sydney South NSW 1235.

Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

THE GOOD NEWS CAN BRING D I V I D E D N AT I O N S TO G E T H E R

The Moderator’s welcome message (Insights, April/May) mentions the challenges of reunification of her homeland, Korea, and provides a profound insight into how the message of Christ is a great force for human reconciliation.

Moderator Rev. Myung Hwa Park mentions the great Korean song Urie So Wonun Tongil [Our Hope for Unification]. I sang this song in 1989 with the Korean Student Christian Federation when I visited both South Korea and North Korea on behalf of the World Student Christian Federation. At that time, people saw the collapse of the Soviet bloc and thought Korean reunification was just around the corner.

Churches in Korea celebrated the theology of the ‘minjung’ — the ordinary working people — as a symbol of the solidarity and liberation available through the love of Christ. And yet the North Korean regime is still in power, having the same language and ancient cultural heritage as the South, but with a massive gap of wealth and freedom that has only worsened. The path to unity and restorative justice in Christ remains elusive.

The reconciling message that God was in Christ calls us to pray for divided regions — such as the Korean Peninsula and the Middle East — that they may overcome their bitter divisions and suffering, and may expand dialogue about reconciliation, unity, forgiveness, peace and common shared humanity. The message of Christ can be a bridge of faith, hope and love between the great clashing forces of the world.

Robert Tulip, Fraser ACT

PERMISSION G I V E N TO M OV E F O RWA R D

It was an honour to be a part of such an effective Synod meeting. The ideas and actions [expressed] for the need for radical and courageous change really made this Synod meeting, in my opinion, the best I have ever attended and participated in. There is now obvious reason to have hope in the UCA at the NSW Synod level. I believe that the Spirit is on the move and there is now permission for the people to go ahead and begin the hard work with vision and purpose.

Synod attendee

CONSIDER ALL THE ISSUES T H AT M AT T E R

As I write this letter (May 5) there’s still no word from Canberra as to the date of what will undoubtedly be a double dissolution election for both houses of the Australian parliament.

As we approach the date, a de facto election campaign has been running for weeks and both major parties have been seeking to prosecute their respective policies and credentials to convince a very confused electorate they are worthy of governing

when it comes to the big social justice issues and it’s right and proper that we seek to have our voice heard. However, there is a real risk that focus alone on social justice may overlook the very real fundamentals of a strong economy and the capacity of a government to actually govern for the common good.

The challenge for each of us of voting age is to carefully consider the options. To think not just of ourselves but also of others who are in very different circumstances than us.

Whatever the outcome on July 2, there will be winners and losers, amongst not only the candidates and the parties, but all Australians.

Over the next few weeks, there may be times you will just want to switch off! [But] vote wisely and whatever the result, accept it and give the leaders the opportunity to demonstrate they are, in fact, real ‘leaders’.

Allan Gibson OAM, Cherrybrook

Within the Uniting Church we have been very vocal

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News

S Y R I A N R E F U G E E S I M PAC T E D B Y O U R E V E R Y DAY S U P P O RT My name is Karen and I recently travelled to an urban refugee camp in Jordan on assignment with Act for Peace, the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia. We were seeing how urgently needed food ration packs were being distributed to Syrian refugees. Many of the packs were funded thanks to the generous support of Uniting Church Members in NSW, and it was incredible to see first-hand the difference this support was making.

While I was at the camp, I asked refugees, “What did the war take from you?” The answers I received included “Our dad”, “dignity”, “school” and, tellingly, “everything”.

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Their heartbreaking responses caused me to reflect on just how much the war in Syria has impacted ordinary mothers, fathers, sons and daughters.

During my visit, I learned a lot about people’s suffering, but also about their resilience. I saw the emotional pain people were experiencing, the terrible conditions they were living in, and their desperate need for food, medical treatment and other kinds of support.

Despite this, these people who have lived through such grief and trauma, welcomed me in to their homes and shared their stories with me.

After all that they had gone through, many of the amazing men and

women I talked with were still determined to help others in need. “With love and a smile”, Fatima is a proud and strong woman who volunteers to help distribute food aid to fellow refugees in Jordan. Though she said she will never forget the humiliation and powerlessness she felt when she first became a refugee, the war hasn’t taken away Fatima’s smile.

crisis. At a level we can all actually understand.

One way we can show refugees we’re with them, not against them, is by taking part in the Act for Peace Ration Challenge.

Thousands of caring people have already signed up.

The money raised will help provide refugees with food, medicine and psychosocial support. But, more importantly, by taking a In Australia, we are used to stand, we show refugees they seeing news headlines full of statistics about the Syrian are not alone and that many conflict, and the numbers are of us care about them. so huge they’re hard to get our heads around. But I hope that by sharing the story of FOR MORE INFORMATION ordinary people in Jordan like actforpeace.org.au/ Fatima, I can communicate rationchallenge at a human level about the suffering caused by the

N E W O R D E R TO P R AY A N D H E A L

The Rev. Professor Dean Drayton has been appointed Prior of the Order of Jacob’s Well (Aust), an ecumenical teaching and healing order to provide resources for the Church. The Order was established in Australia in 2015, following a visit from Prior of OJW (UK), Rev. Mike Endicott. He formed the Order in 1998, having discovered a new way to pray in response to Christ’s command to preach the kingdom and to heal.

A Flourishing Society: Your Faith, Your Voice, Your Vote is a resource to help you think about your vote at the 2016 Federal Election.

The aim of the Order in Australia is to start a series of local ‘wells’ where groups of Christians from various denominations will, together, learn how to pray for kingdom healing.

They then serve their surrounding churches by providing healing services.

It is an invitation to consider some of the important issues that the Uniting Church and its members have been engaged with through our ministry and advocacy. The resource explains the theological foundations for active participation in our democracy and includes material to help you identify important issues facing Australia, listen to politicians and political parties with discernment, and cast an informed vote.

On 1-3 July, the Order is running a public weekend (with two OJW Elders) at St Stephen’s Church on Macquarie Street, Sydney.

On Friday and Saturday, there will be teaching on another way to pray for healing and, on the Sunday night, a healing service will be held. See page 34 for registration details.

All resources can be downloaded for easy printing and sharing and some are available in hard copy from your synod office or UnitingJustice Australia.

Dean found the teaching helpful and also had the privilege of seeing people healed. He hopes other Christians recognise the OJW weekend offers a great opportunity to grow in faith.

YO U R FA I T H , YO U R VO I C E , YO U R VO T E

The President of the Uniting Church in Australia Stuart McMillan has encouraged Uniting Church Congregations around the country to make their voices heard during the 2016 Federal Election campaign.

“Every election is an important period of national discernment,” said Mr McMillan.

“We have many passionate advocates in our Church who will be active during this Election campaign talking to their local candidates and speaking out on a range of issues.

kind of society our children and grandchildren will inherit.”

The editor of the resource, National Director of UnitingJustice Australia Rev. Elenie Poulos, says the guide brings together the work of Uniting Church agencies.

“The future of offshore detention, climate justice for the Pacific region, valuing cultural and interfaith diversity, are just a few of the issues to be highlighted in A Flourishing Society,” said Rev. Poulos.

“This resource, made up of a booklet and a series of hot issues briefs, is a collection of contributions from UnitingWorld, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress, Frontier Services and others from across the Uniting Church.”

“I encourage Congregations to use the material as a resource for small group discussions and pre-election events of all kinds. An election toolkit includes a number of helpful tips on how to hold your own election forum and engage with your local candidates.”

Download materials from unitingjustice.org.au/election2016

“May God grant wisdom to us all as we consider and discuss issues that will shape the

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News

U N I T I N G CA L LS F O R A R E -T H I N K O N D R U G S

Uniting, the services and advocacy arm of the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of NSW and the ACT, is calling for a re-think on illegal drug use. At the recent Synod meeting for NSW and the ACT, the go-ahead was given for the Synod’s services and Congregations to call for: • i ncreased investment in harm reduction and demand reduction strategies; and • f urther measures to decriminalise individual possession of small amounts of illegal drugs (not to decriminalise the illegal supply of drugs).

A L L A B OA R D : N OA H ’S A R K

Not one, but two, life-size replica of Noah’s Ark are getting plenty of international attention. Incredibly, two separate enormous wooden boats are being floated, with the shared goal of bringing the hope and salvation of Jesus Christ to the world — in a highly distinct way.

Four years ago, Dutch carpenter Johan Huibers built the Ark of Noah (pictured above) as a religious attraction. He has partnered with The Ark of Noah Foundation, to sail the huge vessel from The Netherlands to Brazil for this year’s Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Ark of Noah Foundation is a not-for-profit aiming to raise money for facilities which “will provide social, educational and practical support to the underprivileged citizens of Brazil, and later to follow-up countries,” according to the Foundation’s director, Herald A. M. A. Janssen.

Still under construction in the USA is Ark Encounter, a themepark-styled creation backed by the Answers in Genesis ministry (led by Ken Ham, a prominent Australian Christian). Set to open in July, Ark Encounter boasts a “510-foot-long full-size Ark designed to be family-oriented, historically authentic, and environmentally friendly”.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Ark of Noah: arkofnoah.org Ark Encounter: arkencounter.com

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The Uniting campaign calls on government leaders and policy makers to rethink their stance on illegal drugs, and to consider one based upon compassion.

“There is a compelling case for us to take a new approach on drugs; a more compassionate response; a Christian response,” said Peter Worland, Executive Director of Uniting.

Uniting will join with members of the legal and medical community to argue the case for decriminalisation. “People using illegal drugs in the community often resist help out of fear of being arrested,” explained Mr Worland. “This fear prevents them from seeking help, and it ends up being either too little or too late.

“The consequences of drug use have touched almost every Australian family.

We’re calling for some difficult conversations but, as a society, we can no longer ignore the evidence.”

The Medical Director of the Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre,

Dr Marianne Jauncey, believes addressing the medical needs of people who use drugs is only half the challenge.

“If our aim is to respect the inherent dignity of every person, we must reframe the debate,” said Dr Jauncey. “I work with people every day who are trying to manage their dependence and get their lives back on track. Stigma and shame are big issues, and battling druguse convictions serves only to alienate people further.

If we are a society which believes in giving people a fair go, if we believe in saving lives, we must do something differently.”

Uniting and UCA Congregations will join the growing community who already support the medical and social evidence which proves a new approach is needed. Such supporters include Sir Richard Branson, who recently visited the Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre to learn more about its practices.

CEO and Pastor at the Wayside Chapel, Rev. Graham Long AM said: “Experts the world over are beginning to agree that the ‘War on Drugs’ is lost.

We’ve witnessed an amazing investment of resources in a policy that generally makes life worse for everyone. I’m delighted the Synod is open to considering evidence and looking for a new way forward. We’ll now have an army of voices championing the cause of the people we serve each day.”

The proposal by Uniting was bought to Synod in April, and you can find out more about this on page 27.

P R AY F O R AU ST R A L I A N A I D

F O RT Y Y E A R S O F C O M M U N I T Y S E RV I C E In April, the Caringbah Craft Centre celebrated 40 years of community service in the Sutherland Shire.

Rev. Robert Bruce created the centre in 1976. At the time, Rev. Bruce was Minister of the Caringbah Methodist Church (now Caringbah Uniting Church), and he also was the part-time Chaplain at Sutherland Hospital. There, he met Dr Keith Cotton, who was in charge of the Rehabilitation Unit. They became friends, and Dr Cotton shared some of his ideas for the long term recovery of his patients.

“One day [Dr Cotton] challenged me and the Church to do something with his ex-patients, by providing a room where disabled men could meet and engage in activities to assist in their rehabilitation,” recalls Rev. Bruce. “The germ of the idea was planted. Then, during one of the district planning meetings for the Day Care Centres in the Shire, I realised I could set up a special Day Care Centre for Dr Cotton’s ex-patients. I asked the Church Trustees if I could use the Old Cottage for this purpose, two days a week. The response was a cautious ‘Okay’.”

Initially, the clients and volunteers made pot plant holders, tiled coffee tables, bar stools and bath seats. In time, they started making children’s wooden toys, which went on to become the Centre’s most popular items. Along with the toys, therapeutic items designed to assist patients are also being made.

Located at 20 Dudley Avenue, Caringbah, the Centre welcomes clients and volunteers. It also encourages doctors in the Sutherland Shire to recommend their patients make contact with the Centre. Volunteers provide morning tea and lunches to all, between Monday and Thursday each week. An Activities Group meets each Wednesday in the Church Hall to play carpet bowls. Toys are sold from 8am to 2pm, Monday to Thursday.

For more information, call 9525 9461 or craft2@iinet.net.au

Throughout the past 20 years, Australian Aid has helped to progress millions of people out of poverty. But in 2014, the Federal Government cut the Australian Aid program by $11.3 billion over four years.

Further budget constraints will see another $224 million cut from the program, causing Australian Aid to fall to its lowest level ever.

The Uniting Church has joined church leaders from 12 other denominations to express concern at the Government’s scheduled budget cut. This group called upon Treasurer Scott Morrison and the Federal Government not to proceed with planned cuts to Australia’s aid budget.

a letter to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, or you can send an email to your local MP. Micah Challenge has also created resources for your church, to help you get involved in Australian Aid. To access these resources, visit: micahaustralia.org/ australian_aid Churches can share this information in their Congregations and faith communities, to encourage action and generate discussion about the value Australian Aid brings to the wider community.

As Christians, God calls us to embody His compassionate action in the world.

“If anyone has material The President Stuart McMillan possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has encouraged the Uniting has no pity on them, how can Church community to stand the love of God be in that on this issue. “Millions of vulnerable people around the person? Dear children, let us world, suffering the effects of not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” circumstances beyond their (1 John 3:17) control, are now worse off because Australian aid is no We need to pray for God’s longer reaching them,” said discernment for those who are Mr McMillan. making budgetary decisions Churches have an opportunity regarding Australian Aid. Pray that they will be considerate to take immediate action and responsive to the world’s by pledging to consider the most vulnerable people and Sustainable Development let this be reflected in how Goals this election. To do much we give financially. this, please sign a campaign pledge postcard and hand it Also, pray for those who are to a church leader who will assisting with the delivery of forward it to Paul Grillo, State relief and aid, that God may Organiser for the Campaign sustain them and strengthen for Australian Aid. them as they undertake the necessary support required of Alternatively, you can join them in their roles. the online campaign to send

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“WE’RE FOR MORE T H A N YO U T H I N K ” – U N I T I N G AWA R E N E S S CA M PA I G N During Synod this year, Uniting previewed its new campaign aimed at increasing awareness of the breadth of services it offers. Advertising has gone up on billboards and bus shelters, with the campaign featuring individuals touched by Uniting in some way. All involved felt strongly that Uniting had made a difference in their lives.

In Sydney’s Martin Place and Parramatta during early May, Uniting then hosted large public displays for people to view the campaign while enjoying a cup of tea. A large welcome mat was rolled out, to show how Uniting welcomes everyone.

Uniting also created a series of short films (featuring members of the Uniting community) which will be played in a limited number of cinemas across NSW and the ACT. FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit: uniting.org View the videos: youtube.com/user/ UnitingCareNSWACT

PA R R A M AT TA

M A RT I N P L AC E

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Questions or feedback about the new Uniting campaign: brand@uniting.org

G E N E R A L S E C R E TA R Y, R E V. D R A N D R E W W I L L I A M S AT T H E M A RT I N P L AC E L A U N C H

Come Holy Spirit, Renew Our Hearts WHEN SYNOD 2016 CAME TO A CLOSE, A SHARED SENSE OF VITALITY AND HOPE FILLED THE GREAT HALL AT KNOX GRAMMAR SCHOOL. IT HAD BEEN AN OPTIMISTIC AND COLLABORATIVE SYNOD ON A SCALE NEVER SEEN BEFORE. IF CHANGE IS WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR OUR UNITING CHURCH, SYNOD 2016 REPRESENTED A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. EVERY MEMBER ENGAGED IN POSITIVE DIALOGUE AND CONSTRUCTIVE DEBATE IN SMALL GROUPS. THEY OFFERED UP IDEAS AND THOUGHTS ON HOW THEY SEE THEIR CHURCH TODAY AND TOMORROW, WITH AN OPEN HEART AND OPEN MIND FOR EMBRACING RENEWAL. WHAT WAS SHARED, CHALLENGED AND APPROVED REFLECTED THE VOICE OF THE COLLECTIVE AND EVERY INDIVIDUAL PRESENT. SUCH EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES MATCHED HOW SYNOD 2016 BEGAN. WORSHIP LEADER REV. BEC LINDSAY, FROM HOPE UNITING CHURCH IN MAROUBRA, STARTED WITH A PRAYER WHICH HELPFULLY UNDERPINNED SYNOD 2016.

“WE ARE CALLED TO VIBRANT AND RELEVANT DISCIPLESHIP,” PRAYED REV. LINDSAY. “WE ARE CALLED TO PROCLAIM OUR FAITH IN FRESH WORDS AND DEEDS. WE ARE CALLED TO LIVE OUT THE COVENANT BETWEEN THE UNITING CHURCH AND THE UNITING ABORIGINAL AND ISLANDER CONGRESS. WE ARE CALLED TO BE A MULTICULTURAL CHURCH. WE ARE CALLED TO ADVOCATE FOR JUSTICE. WE ARE CALLED TO CONFESS OUR SIN. WE PRAY THAT THROUGH THE GIFT OF THE SPIRIT, GOD WOULD CONSTANTLY CORRECT THAT WHICH IS FLAWED IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH. “HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, RENEW OUR LIVES, RENEW YOUR CHURCH, AND RENEW OUR COMMUNITIES AND THE WHOLE BELOVED WORLD.”

T H E M O D E R ATO R , R E V. M Y U N G H WA PA R K W I T H UA I C C N S W/AC T R E G I O N A L CHAIRPERSON DIANE TO R R E N S

Who we are, on the way DAY ONE OPENED WITH A SPEECH BY THE MODERATOR, REV. MYUNG HWA PARK. SHE PRAYED FOR A RETURN TO WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE ARE AS THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA — AS ENVISAGED ALMOST FOUR DECADES AGO AT UNION. “COME HOLY SPIRIT, RENEW OUR HEARTS. COME HOLY SPIRIT, RENEW OUR CHURCH”.

ALSO ON THE OPENING DAY, OTHER UCA LEADERS SHARED WITH THE GATHERING ABOUT ACTIVITIES ACROSS THE ASSEMBLY, DURING THE PAST 18 MONTHS.

UAICC NSW/ACT Regional Council Chairperson Diane Torrens and the Moderator began by recognising the country on which they stood.

“We would like to acknowledge and pay our respect to the traditional owners of the land on which we meet,” stated Diane. “Our loving and wise Creator in His goodness gave this estate to the Gurung-gai people of the Eora Nation.

“As we share our own prayers, stories and songs and learn to live and work together on their traditional lands, may we also pay our deepest respect to our elders — those past and those present with us today.

Let us also acknowledge the deep wisdom, knowledge and spirituality that is embedded forever within the Aboriginal custodianship of this Country.”

SYNOD MOSAIC AND HOPE OF FUTURE RETURN

The Moderator and worship leader Rev. Bec Lindsay

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from Hope Uniting Church in Maroubra prayed and began a mosaic that took shape over the four days of Synod.

The purpose of the mosaic was to give members a visual representation of the renewal of our hearts, our Church, and our relationship with First Peoples and the earth.

The Moderator punctuated this prayer by smashing tiles, as a visual representation of our sins. The broken pieces were reformed into a mosaic that was presented at the close of Synod. “Hear this good news,” prayed Bec, “my sisters, my brothers, my friends, my Church. In Christ your sins are forgiven. Amen.”

Myung Hwa spoke of her 18 months as Moderator and how she had travelled far and wide across the country, visiting events and meeting wonderful and incredible people.

“You and I are in the same mould, and are called to take the Uniting Church on this boat,” remarked the Moderator. “We are on the journey to the Promised Land on a pilgrimage …. With humility, I have opened myself to the call of God, to the people of God. “I want to share the words that are revealed to us in Christ Jesus. I have seen God’s

face and hands and feet as I have met many Godly people in our Church; musicians, brilliant preachers, tireless volunteers, gentle teachers, and beautiful children. We have every possible saint in this institution. But the truth is we are often unaware because we tend to see our cup half empty rather than half full.

I have also witnessed the struggles our Churches have gone through.”

The Moderator spoke of her invitation to all ministers to participate in the UTalk events, and the moments of enlightenment that have helped them in ministry. Our Church has been blessed by their commitment to ministry but the Moderator added that many have struggled with the “Institutional Church” and, in many respects, we “have moved away from the Holy Spirit — the movement.”

The Moderator continued: “Trusting God that His spirit can renew us to live out the resurrection life… and a healing in the 21st century. I invite you to begin by praying that we might return to who we are, first of all, and what we are, as the Uniting Church in Australia — as envisaged almost four decades ago. That we be transformed by the will of the Spirit. We pray, ’Come Holy Spirit, renew our hearts, Come Holy Spirit ,renew our Church’.

“Teach us to live in harmony with the earth and to renew the earth. Take us into a new life with God’s creation.

I M P O RTA N T T O REFLECT ON ALL GOD IS DOING

After paying his respects to the traditional owners of the land, UCA President, Stuart McMillan shared his “joy” at sharing in the activities of Synod, in the lead up to the UCA’s 40th anniversary in June next year.

“It is important to reflect on all that God is doing amongst us,” Stuart explained. “We acknowledge our current realities and we look to the future and all that God is calling us to.

“While the latest data speaks of an ageing and shrinking Church, the other data that hasn’t been well captured is that of our cultural diversity and the rich and growing edge of the Church that is found in those communities of First and Second Peoples that are growing, taking up increasing leadership and being involved in contextual theology and changing the face of worship in the life of the Uniting Church. The Holy Spirit is doing that, not people.

“That’s what’s growing in the life of the Uniting Church, it’s “We gather as a Pilgrim People springing up in your midst,” on the journey to the Promised enthused Stuart. “In the Basis Land.” The Moderator, of Union, we are invited to together with Diane, then partner in the mission of God, offered communion to the reconciliation and the renewal gathered members. of the whole creation.”

UNCLE STEVE WILLIAMS (LEFT) CONDUCTED A SMOKING CEREMONY O N DAY T WO O F S Y N O D, A N D T H E S Y N O D M O S A I C ( B E L OW ) TA K E S S H A P E D U R I N G WO R S H I P.

T H E G E N E R A L S E C R E TA R Y W I T H MEMBERS OF THE KOREAN PRESBYTERY At Union in 1977, a vision of abundant life that Jesus intended for us to enjoy was outlined. According to Stuart, this remains a strong statement and challenge as we “work to reimagine the future of our Church that holds true to our shared foundational beliefs and our commitment to be a Pilgrim People walking on a common journey.”

“Our covenant to First Peoples remains central to us,” Stuart reflected. “We’re guests on occupied land. At the 14th Assembly in Perth [last year], we committed to a conversation regarding sovereignty and what it means for us ... and to educating ourselves as a Church about the need for treaty with our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

One of the major ways the Church is committed to reconciliation is to build a church in Mapoon in Far North Queensland.

the Councils of our Church, with groups and ministries nationally as well as ecumenical partners.

“The former Presbyterian mission was the site of a brutal forced resettlement,” explained Stuart.

“Our Church has since apologised for our predecessor’s failure to intervene. Building a new church at Mapoon is an important act of reconciliation — in the spirit of covenanting and in the spirit of our relationship with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.”

COMMITMENT TO C A R I N G IS CLEAR

Assembly General Secretary, Colleen Geyer told members of Synod about the work of the Assembly, noting: “How we work together and with others shows the importance of our collective efforts to be about God’s mission in the world.”

Colleen went on to outline the work of the Assembly standing for justice with

“Our joint commitment to people who are refugees and seeking asylum remains a strong example of the many areas of the Uniting Church’s justice work,” continued Colleen. “Our national position statement – Shelter from the Storm – was brought into sharp focus this year as many Uniting Church Congregations and members were involved in the Santuary movement and the #LetThemStay campaign — in support of the 267 asylum seekers in danger of being sent back into forced detention on Nauru.”

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A space open to progress ON THE THIRD DAY OF THE MEETING, A NEW INITIATIVE WAS LAUNCHED — AND BECAME ONE OF THE MOST TALKED ABOUT AND BELOVED PARTS OF SYNOD 2016.

COULD THESE ‘OPEN SPACE’ SESSIONS BE A VITAL AND VIBRANT ELEMENT OF OUR CHURCH’S FUTURE? The concept of Open Space is that participants create the agenda through a marketplace of ideas and, then, follow up and allocate action in areas they feel most passionate about.

Open Space facilitator Andrew Rixon hails from Narrabri and is passionate about helping organisations get a clearer strategy — together. “On the first day, people are invited to share a topic they feel passionate about,” explained Andrew. “Day two [of the Open

Space sessions] is all about what they are going to do — the call to action.”

At the first Open Space session at Synod 2016, Andrew invited anyone and everyone to raise a topic that connected with the overall theme of: ‘Renewing our Church — the issues and opportunities’. He encouraged members to participate in a dialogue about their passions with the Church, and how they might go on to find expression for these passions.

Seated in amazing concentric circles which looked almost like a space ship ready to orbit, more than 300 Synod members came together at Open Space. As the first session progressed, it became clear that all these fellow Pilgrims on a journey had some work to do.

PA S S I O N A N D RESPONSIBILITY

Andrew explained to members how the groups could operate.

“Some [people] may never attend a group; some [will be] like butterflies hovering on the edges. In science, butterflies are supposed to indicate a healthy eco-system. Then, there are the bumblebees wandering around, crosspollinating ideas; taking them to different places.”

As we can already gather, Open Space runs on the principles of passion and responsibility. Whoever comes to any group is the right person, while participants can leave and join another group whenever they wish.

A flood of topics was raised and these formed the agenda.

Topics ranged from domestic violence to outdoor church, engaging with young people, to building and operating a prison based on UCA values.

The second day of the Open Space forum saw participants indicate their key areas of interest, energy and passion.

After prioritisation, a selection of topics proved most popular as the key projects to move forward with.

AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE …

WHAT YOU THOUGHT OF OPEN SPACE

“It was a very good opportunity to share our opinions and feelings about all the proposals. Open Space is very interesting because we haven’t experienced this before. We are learning. We are trying to enjoy this time, to share new ideas and new future.”

Shin Goo Lee – Secretary of the Korean Presbytery

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“It was helpful to be in groups that aren’t talked about in the big picture of Synod. It gives you a good opportunity to talk with others interested in topics you’re passionate about.

I went to the ‘emerging congregations’ group for first session and I just went to the ‘family ministry’ sessions.”

Kaye Lewis – Sydney Central Coast Presbytery

“I found it interesting because it has allowed people to have space to speak their mind and everybody participates.

Good ideas will come out of it, because some of the people in our groups don’t normally speak during the big meetings, so they could express their minds in the small groups.”

Waisea Logologo – Sydney Presbytery

“It has been fantastic. I think we are looking at the Uniting Church growing and these are things that will help it to grow. It’s amazing; it’s great to have it, and it will help the Synod and Assembly. I went to the session that dealt with multiculturalism. Everybody had an opportunity to speak, which was excellent.”

Kodjo Nkrumah – United Theological College

During this action planning session, 19 topics were discussed and considered by groups, for submission as project proposals.

The sessions closed with reflections about what people found inspiring, and the response to Open Space was overwhelming.

ANDREW RIXON (RIGHT) FAC I L I TAT I N G T H E O P E N S PAC E S E S S I O N

Participants took to the microphone in the session, voicing their appreciation and inspiration at having been heard in the sessions.

The project proposals will be available soon and their location will be announced in a future issue of Insights.

“I’ve really enjoyed Open Space. It’s worked out that I have sat out and participated actively in multiple groups. It allows for a variety of input into different issues. I have really enjoyed that. It allows you to see how other people think and breaks up the 300 into smaller, manageable groups that are concerned for different things.”

Nathaniel Hawken – Illawarra Presbytery

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UNCLE STEVE WILLIAMS (WHO CONDUCTED THE SMOKING C E R E M O N Y O N DAY T WO O F SYNOD) IS THANKED BY PA S T O R R AY M I N N I E C O N.

PASTOR RAY MINNIECON, RESOURCE WORKER FOR THE UNITING ABORIGINAL ISLANDER AND CHRISTIAN CONGRESS, DELIVERED THE UAICC REPORT. HE DISCUSSED THE UAICC’S JOURNEY TOGETHER WITH THE SYNOD OF NSW AND THE ACT.

An invitation to share Pastor Ray Minniecon opened his presentation with the passage in Romans 12 about the body of Christ. “Each of us finds our meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way round,’ said Ray of Roman 12: 3-5. “The body we are talking about, of course, is Christ’s body. Each of us finds our meaning and function as part of His body. But as a chopped-off finger or a cut-off toe, we wouldn’t amount to much, would we?”

Ray explained the UAICC didn’t necessarily feel “cut off”, as much as trying to “graft ourselves into” the Synod. “So maybe you can grow another toe, or eye or ear with us,” he suggested. “So that we can grow together.”

“First Nations peoples are serving the Lord and are filled with his Spirit; that our Creator’s love and grace

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is brought to bear on our community challenges at every level; that our First Nations peoples are ministering to other First Nations peoples and to the whole world; that the First Nations peoples and non-Indigenous peoples work and stand together in Christ’s Church.

“Our First Nations peoples are achieving spiritual, economic, social, political and cultural independence,” Ray continued. “Our destination hasn’t changed either and that is to grow authentic, holistic models of Christian First Nations peoples’ ministry, churches, centres, leaders — within and among our people right throughout NSW and the ACT. So we invite you to be a part of our destination.”

President Stuart McMillan was asked to comment on the UAICC presentation. “It’s great

to ... see the way Congress offers leadership to us and offers encouragement in the journey together as the people of God,” said Stuart. “The invitation that Ray gave us to look at Ephesians 2:14-16 and what that means for us, is a really important invitation.

“For me, this is a wonderful invitation,” continued Stuart.

“I’ve journeyed with First Peoples for the last 34 years.

It’s formed me and shaped me and enlivened my spirituality in ways that I am greatly indebted to my brothers and sisters in Christ. So, I encourage us to receive that invitation, to spend some time in Ephesians 2: 14-16 and understand what it is that Congress offers us in that invitation.”

Watch the UAICC video “Sharing the Congress Story” at vimeo.com/162919196

F R . S T E P H E N B E VA N S

FR. STEPHEN BEVANS IS WORLD RENOWNED FOR HIS WORK IN CONTEXTUAL THEOLOGY FOR THE 21ST CENTURY. A MISSIOLOGIST, ACADEMIC AND SPEAKER, FR BEVANS PRESENTED THE KEYNOTE ADDRESS — “PARTNERING WITH THE MISSIONARY GOD: A VISION OF MISSION FOR TODAY”.

S Y N O D WO R S H I P L E A D E R , R E V. B E C L I N D S AY

Working with God God’s mission is wider than the Church’s mission, explained Fr. Stephen Bevans during his plenary speech. God is primary, we are secondary. Stephen encouraged those gathered to think in terms of “God” and “Church” being a verb.

Insights spoke with Stephen before his speech and he happily shared some of his key points. “God is always the God of the gathering,” explained Stephen.

“Wherever people are there, the Spirit is and, if we respect one another and if we are honest with one and open to another, it is amazing to see the ways in which the Spirit is moving us.

“The Spirit in the beginning with Jesus is now with us. It is moving us like it moved Jesus to do the same things — to tell people good news.

“We have to work at what is part of contextual theology.”

How do we talk about the good news today, how do we talk about the Spirit? Fr Bevans suggested: “We need to work with one another to be open. Unfortunately we don’t see the expression of Jesus. One of the greatest challenges is how do we talk about the gospel to convince us that it is worth sharing?”

Towards the end of his presentation to Synod, Stephen challenged members to reflect even further. “[God] doesn’t see us as his workers, but as partnership because it is God’s nature to be partners. God treats us as equals in God’s work — life giving, healing and redemption. That is the point of Trinitarian theology.”

“God shows us what God is really like. God is like Jesus.

If you want to know who God is, look to the cross, look to Jesus healing the blind. God is always by grace. God goes out and gathers in. That is who God is.”

Not wanting to sound blasphemous, Stephen said “somehow or another, God needs us in order to get the work done ... Even when the Spirit works outside the Church, she needs people’s co-operation. God does not force his mystery upon us.

But when God calls, God calls us to be real sharers in the divine mission.”

“This is the amazing Grace of mission ... It is partnering with the missionary God!” For more information about Fr Stephen Bevans, go to: insights.uca.org.au/ features/partnering-withthe-missionary-god

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R E V. B RO N W Y N M U R P H Y D E L I V E R S T H E S A LT B U S H P ROJ E C T W I T H M E M B E R S OF THE RURAL MINISTRY UNIT

S E E D S O F H O P E P ROJ E C T T E A M

S Y D N E Y C E N T R A L C OA S T P R E S B Y T E R Y P RO P O S A L PA S S E D

INSPIRATION CAN BE FOUND IN ALL AREAS OF THE CHURCH, SUCH AS IN THE MANY, VARIED PROJECTS AND CAMPAIGNS ACROSS OUR CHURCH. HEARING AND SEEING MISSION IN ACTION AT SYNOD DELIVERS INSIGHTS FOR LEARNING, WISDOM FOR INNOVATION, AS WELL AS, SOMETIMES, THE SPARK AN IDEA NEEDS TO BE IGNITED INTO LIFE.

Projects & campaigns RURAL MINISTRY A N D T H E S A LT B U S H P ROJ E C T

Rev. Karyn Burchell-Thomas, Presbytery Resource Minister for Macquarie Darling and Rural Ministry Unit Chairperson, began her report with a summary of the Unit’s activities. “In the last few years, we’ve looked very closely at the lives of rural ministers and ... at rural ministry right across the entire Synod,” she noted.

The Unit has embarked upon research — which may take a number of years (“perhaps a lifetime”, noted Karen) — to ascertain how to work and be in the rural and remote places of the Synod. She mentioned that for the first time, three rural Presbyteries are talking strategically and collaborating about the future of the Church and rural ministry.

The Rev. Jo Smallville is a patrol minister for the Cobar/

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Nyngan area and ministers to roughly 300 rural properties in this area. Jo is paid half-time for this ministry and discussed the challenges of minstering to this vast area. She outlined the diverse nature of her ministry, and the challenges, joys and concerns she has for those in rural NSW.

By its very nature, rural and remote ministry will never be self-funding. “I can’t visit people on properties who haven’t drawn a wage for five years and ask them to pay for my petrol,” explained Jo. “Nor can I expect them to travel hundreds of kilometres to fill the pews on Sunday morning.

With no other ordained minister from any other denomination based in Cobar, its people are justly concerned that funding won’t be available for Jo to continue. As a result, she would become another service that won’t be available.

“One of Jesus’s favourite words was ‘Go!’ Go into the world preaching and teaching and making disciples. Go and heal the sick, visit the lonely, feed the hungry. Go and love.

Go and serve. And that’s what our rural and remote ministers and chaplains do. They go out into the world and meet the needs of the people where they are. But we can’t do this if the Church as a whole cannot support our ministry.”

“I believe that I am called to be the presence of God to people in outback Australia with a purpose of meeting their social, pastoral and spiritual needs, and to build strong relationships of mutual trust and respect; treating all people as valued, worthwhile and loved members of the community,” said Jo.

“My prayer for this meeting is that God will help us find the funding for rural and remote ministry so that the people of the country living in isolation

can continue to receive the much needed pastoral, spiritual, social and community needs that they deserve.”

Members also heard from Patrol Minister David Shrimpton. Having relocated from the Northern Territory to Broken Hill, he has never experienced such extreme drought conditions.

“I’ve spoken with people in the tough times,” said David.

“I have also seen them on their properties when they are on their own and isolated. It’s an important role ... one where the Church needs to be involved.”

While all of this information is not new to our Church, radical action is required if the work is to be supported. Hoping to be such action is ‘The Salt Bush Project’, which was brought to members of Synod by Rural Ministry Consultant Rev. Bronwyn Murphy.

“The tenacity and the resilience of the rural church is reflected in the image of ‘old man salt bush’. In times of extreme hardship, the salt bush is the farmer’s friend.

Sturdy and tough, this plant provides nourishment, feeding stock in times of drought and crop failure. No matter how heavily it is chopped back, salt bush keeps on regrowing.”

“Like salt bush, the people of rural and remote areas of this Synod are resilient and strong.

The rural church is now largely lay-led. Ministry in these areas has always been valued in this Synod. Funding has always been ad hoc and always relied on the generous giving of city Congregations,” said Bronwyn.

SALES P RO C E E D S POLICY A P P ROV E D

The new “Proceeds of Sale Policy” was approved on Day One of Synod. It’s the outcome of the “Property for a Pilgrim People” program, which consulted widely across the Synod during the past few years (led by Rev. Niall Reid).

“During 2014, through the ‘Property for a Pilgrim People’ workshops and consultations, it was very clear to me that we are a Church wandering about in the wilderness looking for the promised land,” explained Rev. Reid in his introduction to the Proceeds of Sale Policy.

“It was also clear to me that there are many people who really want to be faithful to God, live as disciples of Jesus and be about his transforming work, but they just do not know where to start. Many recognised that we have to let go: of previous ways of doing things; ways of being in ministry; ways of giving expression to the faith; and ways of thinking about property and how we use it.”

Key points of the Policy: • The primary purpose of property is to serve the mission of God through the life of the Church in its worship, witness and service.

• It is recommended that all Congregations, Presbyteries and Synod establish Mission Plans (including how property supports mission).

• Retaining or disposing of property is to be determined through a discernment process (part of an ongoing mission planning process).

Funding for these ministries is now even more vital.

Synod was asked to discuss • The Policy establishes sustainable funding for The a consultation process Salt Bush Project, such as to create a collaborative approaching Congregations discernment process to and Presbyteries to consider determine how resources supporting it through best serve mission, locally something like Living is Giving. and across the wider Synod.

Synod members were asked to prioritise the important work of • When considering the use the rural Church. of proceeds, generosity is

encouraged, recognising the common wealth of property and missional needs across the Synod.

• UAICC is to be consulted where sales occur.

• Sharing with the wider Synod under this Policy has two minimum default rates based on the net proceeds’ value. However, the policy allows for sharing to range.

• Proceeds are not to be used to fund normal operational expenses, such as the payment of salaries and stipends, or the ongoing maintenance of property.

• Existing sales proceeds are to be reviewed by April 2018.

• Presbyteries are now included in this Policy.

• Exemptions are noted.

The full policy can be viewed at nswact.uca.org.au/ resource-centre/unitingresources/property/

A NEW PRESBYTERY IS BORN

A proposal brought to Synod to amalgamate the Ku-ring-gai and Central Coast Presbyteries was passed unanimously, with an entertaining presentation that outlined the challenging and exciting times ahead for the newly formed Sydney Central Coast Presbytery.

The Presbytery wants to bring a fresh approach to mission, for the future of the Church.

Efficiency and effectiveness will be a major focus; efficiency in Presbytery responsibilities, so they can be effective in living the Church’s values.

“We will take seriously our commitment to engage with the wider Synod,” noted Rev. Ann Hogan. “Finding, freeing and sharing resources, including from excess property, for the common good.”

example of how we might be able to rethink our governance and oversight in the Church,” noted Rev. Graham Perry.

The new Presbytery will be formed with a service of recognition at Turramurra Uniting Church on 22 June.

SEEDS OF HOPE C A M PA I G N LAUNCHED

The ‘Seeds of Hope’ campaign has been designed to help the Uniting Church act as an agent of change and transformation in communities.

Uniting has collaborated with Congregations, Presbyteries and Uniting Mission and Education to produce the Seeds of Hope resource for local Congregations.

This campaign is part of a bigger agenda to bring renewal to Congregations across the Synod. The focus of the campaign is based around Jesus’s Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mark 13:31-32) and what it signifies.

Key aims of the campaign • To celebrate past achievements and develop a sense of pride about our history and legacy and the work the Uniting Church has done in the community.

• To examine our rapidly changing context, looking to our response to the challenges ahead, and who might be our leaders.

• T o awaken a new mindset, which will prepare us to be the people God would have us be.

The Seeds of Hope campaign was launched with a video.

Congregations can find it, as well as more information about the campaign, at seedsofhope.org.au

“We offer the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery as an

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Talking through the issues that matter DURING SYNOD, WE ASKED MEMBERS HOW THEY FELT ABOUT THE GATHERING, WHAT THEY THOUGHT OF SOME OF THE NEW INITIATIVES (SUCH AS THE DISCERNMENT GROUPS) AND WHAT THEY GOT OUT OF THOSE GROUPS.

“My Discernment Group developed a really good relationship. We have had some people with differing points of view, but they have been expressed in a way that has really been encouraging.

We’ve tended to come to agreement, mostly. This is the first Synod I have been to since the inaugural Synod, so it’s very different to what it was then. I have enjoyed being able to be a part of it.”

Dorothy Creek — Riverina Presbytery

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W H AT D O YO U T H I N K A B O U T T H E D I S C E R N M E N T G RO U P S A N D S Y N O D 2016?

“I think Synod has gone really, really well. There has been a lot of debate and emotion shared. I think it has been held in the spirit of grace. It’s always easier to share in a smaller group, and even the process of facilitation and making sure everybody had a chance to share — even the quieter people — has been great.”

Beverly Matthews — Burwood/Croydon Uniting Church

“So far Synod has been really great. I have found the Discernment Group times really productive; that we were able to talk through the issues in a smaller group and we can consolidate thoughts and feelings and discern together, instead of just bringing our own ideas to 300-odd people.”

Emma Parr — Burwood/ Croydon Uniting Church

“I think the Discernment Groups are pretty good.

The problem with the old method of talking from the floor is that there are some people who are really good and some who don’t feel as comfortable. So this, I think, will get more insights from more people.The formal procedures are necessary, but I think it’s the personal relationships that are the most important.”

David Reichardt — Co-opted member, Minister of the Word (between placements)

“Discernment Groups have been more than helpful. It has allowed us as individuals to share with each other how we feel, because not everyone gets that opportunity in the larger group. It is building my understanding and educating me about how the Church works from a broader perspective. I am a quieter person so it has been great.

I love the worship!”

Queenie Speeding – Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress

“The Discernment Groups have been a space where more conversation and participation can happen. In the bigger group, you won’t get that opportunity. I’ve been emotionally moved in a couple of the worship times.

That was a bit of a surprise!

I have felt this wonderful sense of Spirit here, so I have appreciated that sense of being surrounded by other faithful people ... where the Holy Spirit is moving.”

Salessi Faupula – Jannalli Uniting Church

“My Discernment group has been very agreeable. We have all been pretty much of the same opinion. We have had some good discussion ... I was timer on the last Discernment Group and no one went over their time.

The Discernment debrief is helpful. I wouldn’t like to be the person putting it all together [but] it has been helpful. A couple of things we have said have been fed back to the whole group.”

Paul Creek – Riverina Presbytery

M O D E R AT O R S, E L E C T, P R E S E N T A N D PA S T: R E V. S I M O N H A N S F O R D, R E V. M Y U N G H WA PA R K A N D R E V. D R B R I A N B ROW N

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Healing and justice for survivors THE ISSUES OF ABUSE AND REDRESS HAVE BEEN PROMINENT DURING THE PAST FEW YEARS. THE UNITING CHURCH IS COMMITTED TO CONDUCTING ITSELF IN A WAY THAT UPHOLDS OUR CORE VALUES OF CARE AND COMPASSION, AND TO SUPPORTING SURVIVORS OF ABUSE. ISSUES WERE DISCUSSED AND INFORMATION SHARED ABOUT HOW WE ARE COMMITTED TO ACTIVELY CONTRIBUTING TO THE HEALING AND JUSTICE PROCESS FOR SURVIVORS, AND OUR APPROACH TO REDRESS.

The General Secretary, Rev. Dr Andrew Williams, outlined the work of the Synod with the Royal Commission, noting that it is just over a year since the Commission held a public inquiry into the responses of the Uniting Church and Knox Grammar School to incidents of child sexual abuse.

“During the Royal Commission hearing, I was deeply moved by the survivors and what they said about the impact of abuse on their lives and the injustices they experienced,” reflected Andrew. “We learned that 22 years is the average length of time for a child who has been a victim of abuse to come forward. And then there are huge hurdles and barriers in their way to achieving justice.”

respond compassionately and consistently to survivors seeking redress and justice.

Developing an Interim Redress Policy involved a Synod-wide consultation process, including Wesley Mission and Uniting, as well as use of substantial resources.The Policy will operate until such time as a government-led national approach is operational.

“As an ex-officio member of the Knox Board, I can say that it is my observation that the culture at Knox is entirely different, in a positive way, from the period under review by the Royal Commission” reported Andrew.

Following his introduction, Andrew welcomed Peter Roach, Chairman of Knox School Council. Peter expressed the School’s gratitude for their relationship with the Uniting Church, as an important part of Knox’s ethos and its students’ education.

Following the Church’s experience of the Royal Commission Public Hearing, and in light of the Commission’s recommendations, the Synod made a commitment to “Those involved at Knox were provide fair, consistent and shocked and saddened by compassionate redress for survivors of child sexual abuse. what we heard at the Royal Commission… but it also strengthened the school’s In 2015, The Synod Standing Committee approved resources resolve that what happened in the past would never be for an appropriately skilled repeated,” he said. team to develop an Interim Redress Policy, to ensure: Peter emphasised the change in culture over time, which • T he immediate needs of puts the students first and survivors of child sex abuse fosters an environment of following the Knox Hearing doing the right thing morally. are met; and He also stated the school’s • Church is equipped to

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obligation to do the right thing by its students — academically, spiritually and emotionally.

THE UNITING CHURCH SYNOD REDRESS POLICY

Rhonda Ianna, Senior Legal Counsel with UCA’s UnitingRedress team, outlined how the Interim Redress Policy has been developed. It aims to enable a pastoral response, consistent with the values and ethos of the Uniting Church.

The Policy’s key components: •A direct personal response, which may include an apology by a senior member of the Church and of the school or institution, if the survivor wishes.

•C ounselling and support for survivors.

•F inancial redress offered by way of ex-gratia payment.

This is a payment made in recognition of the pain and suffering caused as a result of abuse.

It is not compensation.

The interim policy applies to those adults and children who experienced sexual abuse as a child in an institutional context while in the care of the Synod, through its Institutions. It’s based on the Royal Commission’s recommendations for interim arrangements and applies to survivors until the government scheme is operational.

The Interim Policy was discussed in Discernment Groups. It was recevied favourably and members later voted unanimously to accept the Interim Redress Policy.

One member noted: “It really is true the UCA in this space is different and is being proactive. It is true the UCA has been so proactive in volunteering information to

the Royal Commission. This plenary has the responsibility to be very proud of its clergy — Rev. Jane Fry — working in this space to ensure justice has been done. This document is a good example of this work.”

THE BURNSIDE REDRESS POLICY

Claerwen Little, Children’s Advocate for Uniting, outlined the Burnside Redress Policy, which has been in place for a number of years.

Burnside was the largest orphanage in the Southern Hemisphere. More than 9,000 children were cared for on the site at North Parramatta from 1911 until the 1980s.

“Despite the best of intentions in providing these services, sadly, throughout the decades, many children did not receive the love and care they so deserved and their experience in our care was cruel, heartless and abusive,” said Claerwen.

“For many other children, of course, their experience was very positive and, for most, it was just okay. Nothing ever replaces a safe, loving family.”

Since the establishment of a redress policy for Burnside in 2003, 38 people have sought acknowledgement and/or redress for past abuse.

D R . M A R I A N N E J A U N C E Y, M E D I C A L LY S U P E RV I S E D INJECTING CENTRE

SOCIAL JUSTICE FORUM A DVO C AC Y C O O R D I N ATO R JON O’BRIEN

Campaigning for reform The report tabled by Social Justice Forum — a group comprising members of Synod and Uniting — outlined its campaigns and work undertaken over the past 18 months. Claerwen Little, Children’s Advocate for Uniting and Chair of Social Justice Forum, thanked Forum members for their work across the Synod.

Over time, the Forum has considered a wide range of issues that affect the daily life of the Church — from affordable housing and people seeking asylum, to coal seam gas and the issue of drug reform.

Social Justice Advocacy Coordinator Jon O’Brien, presented on the ‘Give Hope’ Campaign, which focuses on removing children from detention. The Forum also encourages churches to support the 9,000 people seeking asylum who are already living in the NSW and ACT community (many face great hardship). This year, $5,000 was raised for settlement services for asylum seekers. The Forum again will appeal to Congregations to donate vouchers for food and goods, as well as helping with outings for asylum seekers.

In 2015, nearly 70 Congregations and more

than 400 people took part in 65 ‘Table Talks’ on the affordable housing crisis.

The Forum also encourages and supports other parts of the Church to address issues that concern them.

Marion McConnell and Bill Bush are members of the Canberra Region Presbytery Social Justice Group. They met with the Forum last December, to discuss a proposal for drug policy change. Marion and Bill are also members of Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform, a group formed more than 20 years ago in response to heroinrelated deaths in the ACT. Marion and Bill have a wide knowledge of the relevant issues and they argue that the current approach to illicit drugs is not working. Drug addiction should be treated as a health and social issue, not a law enforcement one.

A paper was prepared for Synod members, promoting a mature and informed discussion of illicit drug use, and how we and the wider community respond to it.

Dr. Marianne Jauncey of the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre took questions about the issue

of decriminalisation of drug use and the Church’s responsibility for advocacy in this area.

G R E E N L I G H T TO P RO P O S A L S

On Day Four, after rigorous debate, the Social Justice Forum proposals bought to Synod were passed.

These proposals included supporting the Give Hope campaigns for asylum seekers, and sanctuary; affordable housing advocacy; and advocacy of illicit drug decriminalisation.

Debate on the floor about decriminalisation focussed on personal stories and concern about how advocacy would be undertaken in a public forum, as well as what communications among Congregations and Presbyteries would look like.

“We know a lot about working with individuals who are addicted,” said Peter Worland, Executive Director of Uniting. “We are not going soft on drugs; we are caring for the individuals involved and dealing with the issues.

We have strong community communications set up to deal with the possible publicity around this issue.”

Rev. Gordon Ramsay, chair of the Uniting Board, noted:

“There’s a number of ways in the past that we have undertaken policy position ... The reality is that as a council of the Church, we are going to have to keep working both within the Church with Congregations and in advocacy with governments around what this means in the detail.

There is more work to do; it won’t be resolved quickly.”

Katelyn Stevenson from Parramatta Nepean Presbytery supported the Forum’s proposal. “This issue affects the young people literally all around us. It is a very real issue; it affects people in my own youth group. This proposal is incredibly important from a health perspective, but it is also incredibly important from an open, belonging, gracious and loving perspective. For us to be able to show that we care so deeply for them about their health, for their rehabilitation, for the opportunities that will come to them in the future, I see this as incredibly important.”

Although the motion on illicit drugs was not unanimous, it was passed by vote and work will begin on the policy.

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REV. HANSFORD AND HIS WIFE FIONA

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A new way forward in the grace of Jesus

REV. SIMON HANSFORD HAS BEEN ELECTED TO BECOME MODERATOR OF THE UCA SYNOD OF NSW AND ACT, FROM SEPTEMBER 2017. HE BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE TO THE ROLE AS A LEADER IN THE UNITING CHURCH.

“My call to ordained ministry has always been about serving the whole Church and has not been constrained to the placement in which the call was focussed,” Rev. Hansford said, during his personal statement to members of Synod.

His experience in ministry has taken him from Sydney’s North Shore to Tamworth (where he is minister at Southside Congregation), and various places in between.

“Sharing in ministry teams in Dubbo and Queanbeyan helped me to appreciate the challenges of working with diversity — older and younger ministry agents, experienced rural practitioners, city-fresh ordinands, gifted youth workers and internationally experienced mission agents who were wise after arduous journeys.”

“There is a time to keep silent,” he explained. “There is a time to speak. I have learned, and continue to learn, about listening to the voices of joy, of pain, of experience, as I work to interpret our lives in the hope of the gospel.”

Rev. Hansford grew up in Sydney and attended the United Theological College at North Parramatta. His first placement was Dubbo. “I arrived in March 1991 and stayed for 12 years,” he said.

“Dubbo was a wonderful place and a great ecumenical experience. Tremendous links were forged with Peter Dahaner [from the Anglican Church] and [Catholic priest] Carl Mackander.”

After leaving Dubbo, Rev. Hansford spent three years at Queanbeyan. He worked for the Uniting Church Presbytery in north-western NSW for seven years before becoming the minister at Southside Uniting Church in Tamworth in 2012. Rev. Hanford and his wife Fiona have two daughters. Rachel, 23, is in her fourth year of medicine, and Miriam, who will be 21 this year, is in her final year of university study and plans to become a social worker.

“We proclaim our hope in Christ, because of the world around us, not despite it,” said Rev. Hansford. I think the Uniting Church in Australia has worked out how to speak in a very diverse and rapidly changing world.

“Often the church is heard to be judgemental, or accusatory, or obscure and none of those help. We all need to be able to articulate hope and justice in a way that makes sense in the world.

“The issue of asylum seekers, in all its breadth and depth, is important and we need to speak about it with a coherent voice.”

Rev. Hansford said the issue of CSG was “very hard” and had “radicalised” people who would never see themselves as being radical.

“It is very difficult when people see their land and important aquifers being threatened,” he said.

Rev. Hansford believes it is “Personally, I have friends important for the Church to be heard on issues including who are lying in front of bulldozers and another friend same-sex marriage, asylum seekers and the debate about who is driving the equipment that is clearing the land.” coal seam gas (CSG).

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THE MODERATOR PRAYS WITH REV. HANSFORD AT SYNOD 2016.

THANK YOU FOR THIS HONOUR, THIS CHALLENGE AND THIS PRIVILEGE. I LOOK FORWARD TO BEING PART OF OUR CHURCH IN THE YEARS AHEAD, FINDING OUR NEW WAY FORWARD IN THE GRACE OF JESUS CHRIST Rev. Hansford recently told the Northern Daily Leader he had “about 1000 goals” he’d like to achieve when he is Moderator. He also said he had a hard act to follow, as Rev. Myung Hwa Park is “an amazing woman” who has been a powerhouse of action and witness for the Church.

In accepting the role at Synod, Rev. Hansford revealed how his children’s perspective would help to shape his approach to being Moderator. “I was thinking about our daughters – Rachel and Miriam – and how they are children of a new Uniting Church. Looking for how that might be in the world — our feet in one place, our hearts in another and our heads in a new space —

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and what that means for me being a Moderator in that kind of Church.”

“Thank you for this honour, this challenge and this privilege,” Rev. Hansford told the Synod gathering. “I look forward to being part of our Church in the years ahead, finding our new way forward in the grace of Jesus Christ.”

Rev. Park prayed for Rev. Hansford and his appointment. “Gracious God, thank you for guiding and leading us in this discernment. You have given us wonderful people [with] more than willingness — they have passion, commitment and experience.“ Lisa Sampson

REIMAGINING FAITH FORMATION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY WITH JOHN ROBERTO - 23-28 AUGUST 23-25 AUGUST LEARNING INTENSIVE: ENGAGING ALL AGES & GENERATIONS

26-28 AUGUST

An intensive teaching event with John Roberto with a focus on: • How formation and education are changing in today’s mission context • Promising approaches to faith formation • Thinking beyond the gathered congregation • Learning within and across generations

A three day event with John Roberto as keynote speaker, plus electives, a multimedia expo, panel discussion, bootcamp and interest group conversations, resource displays, and a short film festival.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE: FORMATION AND MISSION IN A DIGITAL WORLD

23 AUGUST: 2.00-9.00PM 24 AUGUST: 9.30AM-5.00PM 25 AUGUST: 9.30AM-5.00PM

• • • •

The impact of digital technology in a social world Blended faith formation in a digital world Curating learning experiences Resources and tools for faith formation

26 AUGUST: 2.00-9.00PM 27 AUGUST: 9.30AM-9.00PM 28 AUGUST: 1.00-4.00PM (Sunday morning includes the option of visiting a congregation using digital media in worship or education)

MAIN SPEAKERS • John Roberto LifelongFaith Associates (Connecticut, USA) • Mr Greg Whitby Executive Director of Schools, Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta.

CONTRIBUTING SPEAKERS • Dr Mary Hess • Dr Bex Lewis • Rev Dr Lynne Baab • Mr Steve Watt

For registration and accommodation details go to the website at reimaginefaith2016.com or contact Craig Mitchell on craigm@nat.uca.org.au

Do You Care For People?

BECOME PART OF A TEAM BRINGING A MINISTRY OF CARE TO PEOPLE IN A HURTING WORLD

THE PASTORAL COUNSELLING INSTITUTE OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF COUNSELLING INCLUDING:

LET THE EXPERTS COME TO YOU! If you’re located in a rural area and are looking for training in pastoral care, stay where you are. The Pastoral Counselling Institute will bring their team of training experts to you.

The Institute offers training in a number of areas for Churches and ministry teams. These include programs on: • Learning How I Listen • I’m Going Visiting • Qualities of Leadership Each of these programs is designed to encourage members of your Congregation to increase their skills in pastoral care.

And to ensure you’re getting the most from your training, each course can be be tailored to suit the needs of your Congregation.

• mental health problems • grief and loss • trauma • behavior change • anger management • marriage • relationship and family issues • sexual orientation and gender identity issues • victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse.

Our staff have training in both Theology and Psychology and are dedicated to a holistic, sensitive approach to personal, marriage and family issues, regardless of race, gender, religion or sexual orientation.

People with a referral from their GP on a Mental Health Care Plan may be able to claim Medicare benefits* (* see Medicare schedule for claimable items – available on request or on the psychology website) http://www.psychology.org.au/medicare/fact_sheet/ Become part of a team bringing a ministry of care to people in a hurting world?

DO YOU CARE FOR PEOPLE?

Chaplaincy and Pastoral Counselling Program www.pastoralcounselling.org Delivered on the CHC42315 - Certificate IV in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care

RegisterINFORMATION your interest now – Starting MayPASTORAL 2016 in North Parramatta IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE ON ANY OFinTHE COUNSELLING INSTITUTE Turn your compassion into competent practice  Nationally accredited part-time full year course by weekend ACTIVITIES, PLEASE CALL ON 9683 3664 OR EMAIL TO PCIUCA@IHUG.COM.AUintensives

Basic counselling skills related to spirituality, bible and theology  Learn the biblical ‘Story Whispering’ © model of providing care Learn skills to provide a caring link between church and community  Find wisdom within the stories you encounter Topics include counselling, communication skills, grief and loss  Designed to meet continuing education requirements Compile a referral kit and develop liturgies for specific pastoral situations  2016 will include Chaplaincy Units  31 Learn to provide practical visitation in both parish and community settings

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The course is offered by distance learning and intensives so, if you have 10 or more people committed to studying the course, we will come to you - call us to discuss possibilities.

G E T T I N G O N B OA R D

Teaching refugees to surf FLEEING A WAR ZONE SEEMS A WORLD AWAY FROM RIDING HIGH ON AUSTRALIA’S WAVES. GROUPS OF REFUGEES HAVE BEEN ABLE TO EXPERIENCE FUN IN THE SURF, THOUGH, THANKS TO A COMMUNITY EVENT AIMED AT EXTENDING CHRISTIAN HOSPITALITY.

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A joint initiative of Gerringong Uniting Church and Christian Surfers Australia, “Surf Together” kicked off in January and was held several times throughout the summer. Locals in the Illawarra region taught refugees of all ages how to surf. Friendships were forged and food was shared during times of relationship building, service and fellowship.

Together experience was the best day he had had in 20 years. Another two young men have become involved with their local chapter of Christian Surfers, since learning to surf at Surf Together. One of the men is being supported in training to be a lifesaver.

Marty Richardson is one of the organisers of Surf Together.

In an entry on The Purpose Rev. Peter Chapman is Minister Collective blog (mattdarvas. com/2015/02/09/surfingat Gerringong Uniting Church. refugees), he described the He says the idea for Surf first event as showcasing Together came about through Australia’s accepting Congregation members community at its best. already being connected with members of their local refugee community. “It was an “As we ate our mix of halal and non-halal food, a few of organic, natural extension of the relationship we had,” Rev. our new Aussie mates shared their horrific stories of fleeing Chapman recalled. for their lives,” Mr Richardson wrote in the blog entry.

“Our congregation operates Chittick Lodge, a local “As kids played in the shore boutique campsite, and we break, locals pushed people had offered it previously to into waves and women members of the refugee laughed as their husbands fell community over Easter. off face-first into the sand.

We were blessed to have members of the Congolese “This new community of refugee community worship friends experienced a glimpse with us over Easter and build of the way it can be in a relationship from there,” Australia. No fear, no division, explained Rev. Chapman. no defensiveness and a whole lot of joy.

Only a handful of locals and refugees were expected to show up for the inaugural Surf “Seeing the kids push each Together event, but organisers other into waves, even though they can’t yet speak the same were amazed to see more language, was inspiring. And than 100 people on the day, including around 40 refugees. watching our young girls swim happily with others who were still wearing their Islamic dress An Arabic-speaking man with was terrific. Everyone grew severe visual impairment from the experience.” told organisers that his Surf

A P R AC T I C A L MINISTRY

Teaching recent arrivals about one of their new country’s national pastimes is a practical way to make a difference in people’s lives.

“Rather than making a political statement or social media gesture, we hope that this ministry will be a very real and tangible, practical … way of doing something for people who are in the midst of a huge life change,” Rev. Chapman said of Surf Together.

“We hope simply to extend Christian hospitality to newcomers to our shores.

“We wish to say you are welcome and we love you. We hope this ministry is a fun way of building connections and relationships and letting the refugee community know of the Christian church’s love and care for them.”

Surf Together has already fostered long-term relationships between the Church and refugee community members. This unusual ministry also offers an opportunity for anyone to participate — not just those who are keen surfers.

“Not everyone who lives in Gerringong can actually surf, but everyone can use the gifts God has given them to help grow relationships and offer Christian hospitality,” Rev Chapman encouraged.

Jonathan Foye

L I K E TO K N OW M O R E ?

Along with the surfers out in the waves with our Syrian and African friends, you can also get involved with Surf Together by helping with transport, catering ... or simply striking up a conversation with a new friend.

For more information on Surf Together and Gerringong Uniting Church’s ministry, visit the church’s wesbite: gerringongunitingchurch.wordpress.com

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A TRADITION OF CHRISTIAN CARE AND CONCERN

Richard & Deborah Spiteri, proprietors

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERALS CONDUCTED THROUGHOUT SYDNEY

MEMBERS OF THE FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION OF NSW

The healing order of JACOB’S WELL (Aust) presents

EVENT LEADERS - JACOB’S WELL (UK) DR GERALDINE ELLIOT-SMITH Well Elder, Retired GP, Trustee and leader of “In His Footsteps” courses and mentors future Elders.

REV. PAM GORDON Ordained Anglican Minister, Sub-Prior of The Order of Jacob’s Well and Elder responsible for running prayer communities.

WHERE: St Stephen’s Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street Sydney WHEN: FRIDAY 1 JULY - 7.30-9.30pm: Christ the Healer in the Cross and The Kingdom SATURDAY 2 JULY - 9am-5pm: Teaching the Cross and Kingdom Walking Pts 1&2 SUNDAY 3 JULY- 7pm: Christ the Healer, Service of Worship (FREE) ($20 for Friday Night, $30 for Saturday, $40 for both) HOW TO PAY: Direct payment to The of Jacob’s Well (Aust.) BSB: 105010 ACC: 120325440, please provide name, state and contact details via email to general@au-jacobswell.org FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO REGISTER GO TO THE ‘EVENTS’ PAGE AT WWW.AU-JACOBSWELL.ORG

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It’s a mouthful, but it works Some days my letterbox is full of stories of hungry children, people dying of thirst, girls left out of school and communities denied a political voice. And as I sit down to read about who needs what, I ask myself: What on earth do I base my decision upon about where to make my donation? Food? Shelter? Education for women and girls?

Recently I met people who gave me the answer: Community Development Projects (CDPs).

Bear with me. Community Development Projects are a mouthful to say, but they work. Why? Because they are able to respond to the specific needs of specific people in specific places.

WE WANT TO CREATE WHOLE, HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

“We don’t choose one issue,” explained Nita Pyne, who oversees the CDPs within the Diocese of Durgapur.

“We ask the people in the communities what they need and then train Community Organisers to help them meet their challenges.

“You can only beat poverty by addressing many different issues: women’s rights; We were visiting a community support for school; health; farming techniques; water about six hours north-west supply. We want to create of Kolkata, West Bengal — whole, healthy communities. a place so isolated that a woman gripped my hand and That’s what Community Development projects do. told me (via translator) we were the first foreigners she’d “Poverty is very complex and ever seen “in real life”. the way we tackle it must be sophisticated too.”

We were showered by marigold petals as our ears On a mat woven from were filled with the sound leaves gathered from a of welcome drums, children nearby forest — hand-made bubbling and saris singing with colour. Boys had slicked products like these are the community’s only source of their hair flat for our arrival income — a group of women and proudly offered up their told us about the progress baby sisters for photos. they had been making. Yes, they are occasionally beset Poverty is a complex web by elephants in search of that is ever-present in this food, who emerge from the community (and so many forest and knock down their others like it). Unpicking it is homes. But no, they have not the vision of the Church of lost heart.

North India.

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Once they relied on rainfall alone to grow their food and when it ran out, they moved on in search of another place to live. Now, they’ve lobbied the government for a water pump, as well as starting to irrigate crops, use droughtresistant seed and grow better food.

Their children attend school more regularly and they have a local tutoring centre to support their education, health and nutrition. The women have formed a selfhelp group to learn about available pensions and manage saving schemes and loans. A local Community Organiser goes door-to-door speaking to people about gender equality and the rights of women and girls.

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“I think my daughter will be the first person in our family ever to have a really good life,” a lady called Amala told us. “She is vaccinated. She goes to school, eats well.

This year, UnitingWorld is helping to build the capacity of the Church of North India to train more Community Organisers throughout remote West Bengal.

“I am saving for our future, for a cow through the Women’s Group. Before, none of this would have been possible, not for any of us.”

Are you keen to invest your money in sophisticated, longterm solutions to poverty?

CDPs are the place.

Community Development Projects like this one are smart, sustainable ways to overcome poverty. CDPs genuinely put power in the hands of people to take charge of their own lives.

These projects take time and energy but, in the hands of committed and capable people like our partners, they really work.

Cath Taylor, UnitingWorld

H OW TO G E T I N VO LV E D In recognition of UnitingWorld’s effective work in the sector, the Australian government makes available an annual grant to support its projects. For every $5 of government funding, UnitingWorld must provide $1 in supporter donations.

What this means is your donation will have up to 6 times more impact for Uniting Church work in the field. Please donate before June 30 at: unitingworld. org.au/endpoverty

TAKE THE RATION CHALLENGE

AND SHOW REFUGEES WE’re WITH THEM, NOT AGAINST THEM go to actforpeace.org.au/ratio nchallenge or use freecall 1800 025 101

Study Creation and Ecology How does our faith relate to our environment?

What are the church’s ecological responsibilities?

What is the future of our planet?

Uniting Earth Minister Dr Jason John and Uniting Earth Ministry Consultant Dr Miriam Pepper will be leading a five-day intensive course on Creation and Ecology. This course will run from 14 to 18 November at the United Theological College in North Parramatta.

This subject reflects on God as creator of heaven and earth, exploring critical questions about the church’s ecological responsibilities in today’s changing world. Creation and Ecology (THL211) is available as an elective in CSU’s Bachelor of Theology, as single subject study or for interest only.

ENROL NOW For more information or to register, contact: Renee Kelly or Jenny Stockton 02 8838 8914 | studenta@nswact.uca.org.au

www.utc.edu.au/courses

F4890

This subject may be studied as an individually assessed subject, for interest or credited towards further study.

UTC is constituted within the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of NSW and the ACT, and CSU’s School of Theology.

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M A K I N G M O N E Y M AT T E R

Consume or contribute?

Have you ever gone shopping to get just a couple of items and ended up buying a lot more than you intended? I know I have. When we do that, we’ve fallen victim to a phenomenon called the Gruen Transfer. (Yes, this is what the popular ABC TV show is named after.)

WARREN BIRD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, UNITING FINANCIAL SERVICES

The essence of the Gruen Transfer is that the shopping centre hits our senses with a combination of its layout, music playing in the background, colourful displays and other such tactics, with the aim of changing our thoughts and emotions about why we’re there. The hope is we’ll be induced to purchase more than we’d planned.

If this sort of hidden persuasion were found only in shopping centres, there wouldn’t be a lot of harm done. However, the phenomenon is more endemic than that. We live in a world that works hard to sweep us up into a desire for more and more things; to turn on our consumption engines and shift our gears into accumulation mode.

Through advertising, peer pressure and other means, the world tells us we never have enough, that there’s always something more to grasp or to strive for. And we believe it, so we become dissatisfied and we get caught up in the process. Even the wealthy typically don’t believe they have enough.

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What I just oultined isn’t a new process. In chapter 12 of his letter to the Church in Rome, Paul urged Christians not to let the world squeeze them into its own mould (as JB Phillips described Romans 12:2). We who have received the mercies of God are called upon to be renewed in our minds, with attitudes grounded in grace and humility, not greed and hubris.

Paul speaks in two ways about how our minds can be renewed in relation to wealth.

The first is in the context of our gifting (12:3-8). God has given all of us different spiritual gifts, which we’re urged to use to the fullest of our abilities. One gift is that of being a financial contributor (v 8); someone who responds to needs and helps to meet them. Such people are instructed to give generously.

The second context is a wonderful passage (12:921) about Christian love — its high character and its practical nature. One practical expression of love is to contribute to the needs of others and to search for opportunities to show hospitality (v 13).

We have two choices with our money. We can consume or we can contribute. There’s a place for both; the issue is proportion.

In the Old Testament the guideline was that 10 per cent

was to be used in contributing to the needs of the priests, plus offerings above that as needs arose and people had ability. In the New Testament, giving is more open than that system, with instruction simply to be generous and not to be greedy.

The key point is that we have to fight against all of the world’s means of persuasion, which strive to make us excessively favour consumption over contribution. We need to be intentional about the proportion — and also consciously plan to be a contributor, to whatever extent we prayerfully decide is right.

Some are gifted to be a contributor to a greater extent than others, but Christian love calls on all of us to have generous hearts. That way we will be, as Paul put it, ‘living sacrifices’ (12:1); that way, we will make our money matter.

LECTIONARY REFLECTIONS

June: How do we respond when God comes near?

12 JUNE L U K E 7:36-8:3

This story highlights the difference between what appears to be going on and what is actually going on.

In the ‘apparent’ story, Simon is an example of ‘righteousness’. He is the respected religious community leader, a learned man of God. In blunt contrast, the woman is a whore. She had not even a pretence of righteousness.

In front of Simon’s sensational dinner guest, as everyone else looks on, the woman is unable to restrain her gratitude to Jesus. This is the model for appropriate response to God! A life of gratitude.

LOVE CANNOT BE CONJURED. IT IS THE RESPONSE OF A FULL HEART 5 JUNE L U K E 7 : 1 1 -17

This is an outrageous story.

A funeral interrupted. A vulnerable woman’s hope restored. A community confused; coming to terms with death, they are confronted with resuscitation!

When something seems as permanent in a culture as to be of the essence of reality, we don’t even question it. For Jesus, however, death comes across as optional — almost like a choice.

Jesus knew his action would create upheaval, but God still came near. Life and hope were The death of her only son renewed. Established meaning has left the widow without a structures were dislodged. man-connection and renders her utterly vulnerable. Jesus is What Jesus did caused moved by his love and the hard upheaval and disruption (trauma) and life would never realities of the situation. be the same again.

Jesus does not hesitate to break the rules regarding not touching the dead. Neither is When have you experienced Jesus persuaded that death God coming near? What was has the final word. your experience like?

The contrast continues. Simon sits in judgement on Jesus for apparently lacking the discernment to know the truth about this woman. But what Simon, in his righteousness, knows nothing of is that love cannot be conjured. It is the response of a full heart. The woman in her gratitude knows little else!

Jesus instructs this internalised accusing crowd (‘legion’) to go, and the man is transformed. No longer excluded by the demonic condemnation, he is ready to do whatever his saviour desires.

The locals are deeply disturbed by all this. Jesus is working outside their mechanisms of social order/control, which he threatens. The people prefer the devil they know. Jesus leaves the man with his community as a testimony to an alternate reality.

When have you found the ways of God’s kingdom put at threat by the control mechanisms of your community?

26 JUNE L U K E 9:57 -62

The demands Jesus put on those who would follow him seem unbearable. No place to call home? No time for the fulfilment of cultural family expectations? No clinging to the place we once belonged?

Yet, this is who Jesus is. The one who is not ‘at home’ in this world’s power structures. The one so focused on the things of What are you most grateful for? life he has no time for the things that are not life. The one who is all about the Father’s Kingdom.

19 JUNE

L U K E 8:26-39

According to the parallel acount in Mark 5:1-20 of this demon-possessed man, he has the telling trait of attacking himself with stones — bashing himself up against the rocks.

He is effectively stoning himself! It seems he has internalised the accusations of the crowd (whose job it normally is to do the stoning).

Jesus does not ask us to do what he does not do. Rather, he calls us to follow him into all that he does — to follow his values, priorities and desires. To do life as he models it and, so, to find the life that Jesus calls ‘eternal’.

What part of Jesus’s call to you do you find most confronting?

What is it about that challenge that is so difficult for you?

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LECTIONARY REFLECTIONS

July: God’s Kingdom changes what we do and how we do it 3 JULY L U K E 1 0 : 1 -20

10 JULY L U K E 10:25-37

What has been your most response is so profoundly integrated in her sense of what fruitful experience of prayer? is right and good, Martha has Jesus was committed to Life is much easier/clearer What made it fruitful? little capacity to understand offering the grace of God’s when we have precise Kingdom to any and all who parameters around things. The how Jesus can just sit there and let Mary get away with not 31 JULY would receive it. But the lawyer in this story wants a helping her. parameters Jesus sets around ‘final ruling’ from Jesus about L U K E 12:13-21 the manner in which the who he was responsible to Greed is such a part of how Jesus’s response is not labourers are to go into the care for. If he could nail that our society functions, it what Martha expected. He harvest would seem to make it down, the lawyer could fulfil can be hard to recognise. turns the cultural norm on even more challenging! those requirements and rest Our economic system its head. There is something assured in his good efforts. relies on greed. ‘Need’ is a more significant than the In a reversal of more common category that has become established culture at play recent missional strategies, Jesus’s story of the Good interchangeable with ‘desire’. here. Mary is the one who is Jesus sends his workers out in Samaritan messes with the on to the really important thing Jesus counsels us to BEWARE! a deliberately weak manner. lawyer’s strategy. Rather … soaking up Jesus’s wisdom They go out not from a position than setting manageable (almost as if greed is stalking and values. of power or dominance, but limits around the category of us). It is not passive but from a position of vulnerability ‘neighbour’, Jesus does away aggressive. If we do not watch To what extent are you and need. with any sense of limit at out it will take hold of us. Of all distracted — or distract all. Anyone you relate to in a peoples and generations, we others — in your efforts to neighbourly manner falls into The people who respond to should know life never consists serve Jesus? the category of neighbour! the labourers with grace and of our possessions. We have generosity will enjoy (in their more than ever before, yet we response) an experience of The kingdom grows as we are not more satisfied — many 24 JULY participation in the Kingdom, allow more and more ‘others’ would say we are less so.

L U K E 11:1-13 even as they are hearing of it. to become our ‘neighbours’, by Jesus’s encouragements in the But there is to be no grovelling the way in which we treat and Do not allow your possessions area of prayer are ‘refining’. to those who resist making relate to them. to possess you! The gesture If we keep our intercessions a response of welcome. This of freedom par excellence to the straightforward and would be to unwittingly affirm How do you respond to such is generosity. It indicates we concise pattern he indicates, the power structures that the an infinite call to love and our agenda is quickly exposed. are not enslaved by our stuff. non-respondent has entrusted care for others?

Generally, agenda is obscured Giving is what we do when themselves to. by the multiplication of words. our possessions are ours to dispose of as we wish.

What makes unending The more vulnerable sign is opportunity manageable Jesus’s persistence motif is to indicate respect for their for you?

When have you discovered also very refining. We persist decision — and loss — as a at length only with those things you have been a fool in result of their lack of reception. 17 JULY that matter a great deal to us. relation to you possessions?

The activity of persisting also L U K E 10:38-42 When have you seen the What are the clearest gives us opportunity to refine The clash between business gospel most powerfully effect as usual and the arrival of the our motives and requests indications of where your a person/group/community? treasure is? before God. Kingdom is well illustrated in this domestic scene.

Were those bringing the good The most useful prayer is a news dominant or vulnerable? Martha responds seamlessly These reflections dialogue in which God gives us the desires of our hearts … were prepared by the to her culture’s expectation Rev. Dave Gore from Mustard new desires in our hearts (in that she attend to her Seed Ultimo Uniting Church keeping with God’s desires)! guest’s physical comfort. This

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N E W S F RO M U N I T I N G C H U R C H A D U LT F E L L OW S H I P ( U C A F )

Fellowship news

DRINK OF LIVING WATER Donations for the UCAF Synod Committee project for 2016 ‘Living Water Come Drink’ are flooding in from Fellowships and Church communities.

If you are donating by cheque, please make it payable to UCAF Synod Committee.

Treasurer Geoff Hicks will forward amounts on as a lump sum, but donations will be individually acknowledged.

LINKING STORIES AT THE HUNTER RALLY The 78th Hunter Presbytery Rally was held recently at East Maitland Uniting Church. More than 95 enjoyed a wonderful day of fellowship. Special speakers were Mary and Howard Jones from the Central Coast, who volunteer with

‘Outback Links’, managed by Frontier Services.

In the afternoon, guests were privileged to hear from Dan McAloon, Relationship Manager (Mission Engagement) with Frontier Services. He shared stories of the early days of John Flynn and, more recently, the Outback Links Water Project.

In support, UCAF Synod Committee gave $1,500 and East Maitland UC Fellowship gave $1,000. Half the offering was also committed to be used.

Singing was fantastic and all enjoyed their day.

COMMUNITY OF FAITH Macquarie Darling Presbytery held its Rally at Blaney Uniting Church, with the theme ‘The Community of Faith’.

Gwenda Stanbridge welcomed attendees and conducted the worship service, including communion. Fellowship was shared over a delightful lunch prepared by the church ladies.

Rev. Stephen de Plater, Presbytery Chairperson, led a worship session to begin.

RALLIES AND GATHERINGS • PWA Conference: 4 July • Parramatta-Nepean: 29 Guest speaker Julie Greig July at Quakers Hill shared stories and experiences • The Hunter: 19 August at of her work in rural ministry.

Salamander UC She spoke of the harshness of early death, suicide and do- • UCAF ‘Getaway’: 31 August-1 September mestic violence, with there not at Castlereagh being enough help to provide support. Julie also spoke about the challenges of isolation. It was a moving afternoon.

ENJOYING TIME TOGETHER Karuah Uniting Churct recently hosted the Annual Hunter Presbytery Retired Ministry Persons Lunch.

If you would like to share your fellowship news or have any questions, please contact Judy Hicks on judyh_rnh@hotmail.com

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B E L I E F M AT T E R S

Worrying about worry – what does it achieve?

These days, it seems most headlines we read are designed to make us worry: “Shooting in suburban Sydney”. “Beyonce’s marriage in trouble”.

“Dairy farmers milked dry”.

“Crisis levels of Australian school funding”. There is no shortage of reasons to worry.

requests be made known to God”. (As recorded in Philippians 4:4-6)

Repeat: God himself wants us to bring everything to him — even the worries, concerns and anxieties we have. But the problem with lovingly hurling the “don’t worry about anything” statement at And then there’s our own someone who is worrying is lives. Whether it’s a small that we could just make them concern, or som all-consuming more worried. disaster that stops us getting out of bed, having stuff to Telling someone not to worry worry about can seem as about anything because God natural as breathing. Health, tells us to not worry about finances, marriage, children, anything can sound like none work, exercise, housing, bills, of us should ever worry. But, debt, faith … the list goes on um, worry will certainly come. and on.

Right? Right.

Amid all of this, someone As a result, many may get trying to be helpful probably stuck in a vicious cycle of told you to not worry about worrying about their worry anything and hand over all your problems and cares to God. Such advice sounds easy and excellent.

But when someone said that to you, you probably wanted to scream in their face. Or worse.

Because having someone say that you when you are worrying might be one of the worst things they could say.

WO R R Y I N G A B O U T WO R R Y

The reason it’s such a terrible thing to say is not because it’s a lie. It isn’t. God does call those who rejoice in the Lord Jesus to not “worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your

because they feel guilty about having any worries at all. Sigh.

like a swap we’d all want to make, right?

But don’t worry, though. What Philippians 4 tells us about worry is not that it will never happen. Instead, it reveals what to do when it occurs.

What’s being discussed here is a liberating and empowering truth. It’s not just another reason to increase our worry because, when worry does inevitably come, we can hand it to God. By trusting and relying upon him, not ourselves, we receive his peace.

P E AC E B E W I T H YO U

The call to not worry about anything needs to be offered in the same way as Philippians 4.

God wants us to not worry and bring all requests to him SO THAT “the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus”. (Philippians 4:7)

While the answer to our “prayers and petitions” might not be immediate or exactly what we want, God’s peace can replace the unrest of worry. Our foundation can be peace in turmoil, rather than turmoil in turmoil.

Take a minute to read what A H A B I T WO RT H that promises. What’s available M A K I N G from God is his peace — in Next time you or someone you exchange for our worry. Sounds know is worrying, don’t just tell them to not worry and give it to God. Tell them why they should do that: “the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus”.

As you are tapping into that awesome peace, remind each other of another exceptional part of this antidote to worry.

God’s calling us to create a habit of trust and reliance on him, through Jesus, in any situation. No matter what. As we aim to practice theat, we should find dealing with worry becomes another opportunity for tasting God’s peace — not drowning in life’s turmoil.

Ben McEachen

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C U LT U R E WAT C H

An emoji is worth a thousand words I have an almost pathological envy of people who can speak a second language. As a journalist, I have heard and recorded a wide range of migrant stories but, to this day, a strange part of me still resents that my perfectly happy parents didn’t uproot our family and move us to a country where I would have learned a second language with childlike ease. Strangely, though, after three decades of concentrating on the written word, I find myself learning a new multilingual way of communicating that has risen out of Generation Y’s connected-from-birth computer literacy. And though the debates rage redhot in academic circles as to its benefits, I find myself thinking that this almost comic way of connecting actually provides us with some real spiritual gain.

If we were communicating via text on a mobile phone, chances are you wouldn’t have any problems understanding me if I signed off, ‘lol’. In fact, if I wrote ‘LOL’ you’d know I really meant it. That’s because this abbreviation for ‘laugh out loud’ has become synonymous with a new style of conversation that dominates the digital realms. Technically speaking, it’s called an ‘initialism’. Lol has become one of the three most recognised examples of Internet slang since this way of speaking first emerged on Usenet, the worldwide ancestor of computer forums (launched way, way, way back ... in 1980).

The other two are ‘BFN’ (Bye For Now) and ‘IMHO’ (In My Humble Opinion).

The quest to increase the humanity of computer communication soon resulted in the rise of the ‘emoticon’.

Twentieth-century users of a Japanese internet service provider collected punctuation marks to create symbols which served the same purpose as body language. Professional communicators shuddered as the wink arrived online ;o) These pictorial representations of facial expressions aimed to add mood to a speaker’s words. University lecturers were the first to make dire predictions. According to Laccetti and Molski from the

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Stevens Institute of Technology, “Unfortunately for students, their bosses will not be ‘lol’ when they read a report that lacks proper punctuation and grammar, has numerous misspellings, various made-up words, and silly acronyms.”1 But the sky did not fall and, for all of the criticism, the trend didn’t die out. Instead, it gained an imprimatur even more sacred than that of ivy-draped institutions: commercial acceptance.

However, the tipping point came with ‘Emoji’ – miniature graphics which embraced all of the initialism’s brevity and the emoticon’s expression.

Real smiley faces replaced colons and brackets, and were quickly joined by a bewildering array of expressive pictures, practices and household items.

Their creator was Japanese coder Shigetaka Kurita, who says he was continuing the trend of connecting the head with heart: “When you communicate on the Internet, it’s convenient to have emoji ... it’s hard to express emotions only with text. Look at history: after handwritten letters, there came the telephone. Then, electronic messaging emerged.

There was always a demand for something that can express emotions.”2 Smart phone users voted with their thumbs. In 2010,

hundreds of emoji characters were incorporated into the Unicode (the computing industry standard, worldwide, for expressing text). In 2011, Apple released them as part of OS X Lion. In 2013, Google added emoji support to Android. When the Oxford Dictionary announced that (Face With Tears of Joy) would be its 2015 Word Of The Year, the war was over.

And I believe communication was the winner.

This development in computermediated communication isn’t just a collective effort to abbreviate messages. It heralds a desire to connect the head with the heart.

Researchers have taken a second look and discovered that there are some surprising benefits to using emoji. 3 • We react to them just like we would to a real human face. A team of psychologists and sociologists in South Australia has proven “… when we look at a smiley face online, the same very specific parts of the brain are activated as when we look at a real human face”.

• They soften the blow of a critique. Studies on workplace communication show that when negative feedback comes with positive emoticons, the employees are

each other. Through social media and short messaging services where these icons thrive, they reach out to each other with a thousand • They help people little ‘touches’ a day, sharing understand you. The experiences and affirming International Communication connections. This isn’t the Association discovered that sum total of their relationship; people who use emoticons in that would be truly hollow. their online communications are perceived as being not only However they incrementally friendlier but more competent, build up their experience and understanding of each other. and their messages were much more likely to be Christians take note: once understood. again, it’s not just our words that will create our witness, • They promote happier but also what we choose to relationships. The HR Florida surround them with.

Review published a study which demonstrated that “… symbolic emotional cues help Our race towards more rapid and prolific styles ‘clue in’ the recipient towards of communication, IMHO, a particular emotion [and] was threatening something thereby clarify the intentions profoundly human. Email of the sender”, resulting in a was all about business; SMS happier relationship between aimed at communicating in the two parties. as few characters as possible.

In short, emoji and emoticons There was an inherent danger in stripped back can add more meaning, communication that we would improve communication and actually edit out the care we deepen bonds. should be expressing towards others. Our goal to truly Got room for one more connect with each other — a phrase? Memorise this: ‘thousand touch relationship’. God-given human trait — was being subtly undermined.

It describes the way in which the generation that grew The apostle Paul already up with these emotional knew about the mistake we shorthands tend to relate to more likely to feel good about the message and undertake the change requested.

were making in the 1st AD. He warned the church at Corinth that the communication of facts — even the glorious Gospel — without a heart for those who hear it, actually amounted to empty words:

struggling in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”5 ‘IWGYR’ wouldn’t make it clearer, and Jesus’s call can still be heard by the most technologically challenged.

“If I speak in the tongues After all, initialisms, emoticons of men or of angels, but do and emoji are tools, not the not have love, I am only a message. Yet many a person resounding gong or a clanging has received extra comfort cymbal. If I have the gift of from seeing verses like these prophecy and can fathom all sent and signed ‘YBIC’ (Your mysteries and all knowledge, Brother In Christ…), and the and if I have a faith that can symbol at the end. move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.”4 Some of those ‘thousand touches’ have reminded them that someone cares. That Instead of such empty they’re not alone. And that speech, Paul tells his should make total sense to us.

Ephesian readers that, when The Bible and our emotional communicating, truth and witness complement each love must go hand in hand. other. Proclaiming the truth of It’s when we combine our God’s Word and the love of His desire to declare God’s will children for each other should with love for those who are never be mutually exclusive listening that we are actually things. growing up in Christ.

Of course all this doesn’t amount to anything like the assertion, “If Jesus were alive today, He’d use emoji and publish on Facebook!”

Emotion has never been lacking in the written word, especially God’s Word. You don’t need an initialism to convey Jesus’ heart for the

Mark Hadley 1 Silvio Laccetti and Scott Molski (September 6, 2003). ‘Cost of poor writing no laughing matter’.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

2 Kurita, Nakano, Lee. ‘Why and how I created emoji,’ Ignition. Retrieved August 16, 2015.

3 Courtney Seiter, ‘7 Reasons to Use Emoticons In Your Writing and Social Media’, According to Science, Bufferapp, https://blog.bufferapp. com/7-reasons-use-emoticons-writing-socialmedia-according-science 4 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 5 Matthew 11:28

insights 45

Entertain me READ THIS S E RVA N T S A N D LEADERS: EMMINENT CHRISTIANS IN T H E I R OW N WO R D S

Graham Downie is best known for being a respected journalist for The Canberra Times and an award-winning religious reporter. In his latest book, it is Downie’s ability to draw out the details of his subjects that makes it such an interesting read.

Downie has spoken with everyone from Desmond Tutu, to former GovernorGeneral Peter Hollingworth, and this book contains a collection of those interviews. A photo album of sorts of the past 30 years, the 27 interview subjects provide snapshots of insight.

They go a long way to helping readers understand the spiritual experiences of leaders, many of whom have been in very public life.

Most have been at the leading edge of mission and ministry and, since the 1980s, the religious landscape has changed dramatically. What helps to make Downie’s book fascinating is the fact he revisits the interviews he has done — and reflects more deeply on the people he encountered.

UCA members will hold of particular interest the interview with Prof. James Haire, UCA president from 2000–03.

Adrian Drayton

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P R E S S P L AY EYE IN THE SKY (M)

Colonel Katherine Powell (Helen Mirren) is having a difficult time sleeping and it has more to do with her job than with her husband’s snoring issues. She oversees the UK-based military drone operation that targets international terrorist cells. In one operation, she has the opportunity to apprehend some of the most wanted international terrorists. Through the coordinated efforts of politicians, military leaders, lawyers and drone pilots in the UK, US and Kenya, the team pinpoints terrorists in a ‘safe house’ in Nairobi.

Director Gavin Hood shows that war is never victimless and that, even with the distant manner in which modern warfare can be fought, it is impossible to eliminate the human component of any strategic campaigns.

The heart of Eye in the Sky can be found in the innocent eyes of a young Kenyan girl. Without her knowledge, she becomes the catalyst for an international incident of enormous significance — and the ethical and moral decisions which must be made.

This is a thought-provoking experience that will leave many feeling conflicted about the topics of international safety and the war on terror.

Russell Matthews

BIG SCREEN MONEY MONSTER (M)

Don’t you find it fascinating when a movie, TV show, book or some other art work realises what God revealed yonks ago? George Clooney and Julia Roberts’ seige thriller Money Monster affirms the eternal accuracy of what 1 Timothy 6:9 explains: “But those who want to be rich fall into temptation ... and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction.”

Loaded with several unforgettable moments and a proud conscience, the latest feature by director Jodie Foster’s (yes, that Jodie Foster) is a commendable if showy attack upon the apparent lack of ethical accountability in the finance sector. Money Monster has TV personality Lee (Clooney) taken hostage on-air by enraged tradie Kyle (Jack O’Connell, excellent).

Kyle demands answers and an apology for his bankruptcy, leading to a mix of credible and silly events which steadily aim to blame the easiest target on offer.

Moving to a confession conclusion by way of dodgy police-work, Clooney’s slickness and movie contrivances, Money Monster overcomes its shortfalls by having an undeniable heart for injustice. As we all should do with 1 Timothy 6:9, may we heed Money Monster’s glossy warning about the ruin and destruction caused by greed.

Ben McEachen

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