St Michael’s
Programs
May-July 2016
Contents Sundays at St Michael’s 1 Music at St Michael’s 2 Pillar of St Michael’s 3 Mingary Counselling Service 4 Mingary The Quiet Place 5 Mingary Coracle 6 Communion 7 Baptisms 7 Gumnut Crèche 8 Weddings 8 Processional Staff 9 Morning Teas 9 Flower Donations 10 The St Michael’s Library 10 Bayside Book Club 11 Global Concerns 11 Membership at St Michael’s 12 Contact and Care 12 French Conversations 13 HOPE Workshop 13 Hugh Mackay Book Launch 14 Trivia Challenge 15 Blue Series Exhibition 15 A Cockroach’s View 16 S.A.G.E. Healthy Ageing 17 What Matters In The End 18 Weekday tours 18 St Michael’s Music Gala 19 New Faith Discussion Group 20 Meditation 20 In Conversation with Dr Francis Macnab 21 Philosophy for Beginners 22 I Found Happiness Exhibition 22 Mobile Minds Workshop 23 Celebrating 45 Years 23/24
Contact Us 120 Collins Street Melbourne, VIC, 3000 Phone: (03) 9654 5120 Website: stmichaels.org.au Facebook: stmichaelsmelbourne
Message from the Executive Minister Dr Francis Macnab St Michael’s is a unique place, full of passionate and dedicated people. The programs within this booklet are a testament to their enthusiasm. This booklet is an invitation to find something that will enhance your life and help you become part of a wider experience of wellbeing. At the cusp of a new era, St Michael’s is redoubling its effort to be a beacon of inspiration and mental health in the heart of the city. Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “The only thing that is constant is change.” During this change, the programs of St Michael’s will continue and build. Our people have a commitment to continue the good work of St Michael’s and sustain this inspirational place. We urge you to be part of the good work of St Michael’s by participating in these programs.
Dr Francis Macnab Executive Minister.
SUNDAYS AT ST MICHAEL’S St Michael’s is a unique church dedicated to presenting relevant, contemporary preaching that embraces inner wellbeing as a core message. Sunday services include a mix of traditional and contemporary presentations. Inspirational music is integral and most services include guest musicians who perform between readings. Here at St Michael’s we believe faith, spirituality and a meaning to life are vital ingredients for our health and wellbeing. We believe that there is a need to get hold of a more authentic religious understanding and to express it more confidently and diversely.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH 10AM, SUNDAYS MORE INFORMATION stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 1
MUSIC AT ST MICHAEL’S Music forms a vital part of the life of St Michael’s, just as it unifies and brings joy to people across cultures. Each week world-class artists perform as part of the Sunday Service. St Michael’s is a truly stunning place to enjoy high quality musical performances. Every Thursday at 1pm, the St Michael’s carillon is sounded and the grand organ comes to life for a free 30 minute recital. Performed by organist and Manager of Music Rhys Boak and visiting artists, the recital brings the joy and beauty of live music to all who attend. Throughout the year a number of concerts are held in the Church to raise funds for important causes such as The Big Tent Project and mental health programs at St Michael’s. Visit our website for more information about upcoming music events.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS MORE INFORMATION stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 2
BECOME A PILLAR OF ST MICHAEL’S
You are invited to become a part of St Michael’s history in a new initiative, The Pillars of St Michael’s. The Pillars of St Michael’s offers a unique way to be a part of the church and contribute to the preservation of St Michael’s. This initiative gives members of the St Michael’s community the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Have your name or the name of a loved one inscribed on a dedication plaque placed on one of the pillars in the church. All funds from the plaques will go towards the conservation of St Michael’s and is an ongoing initiative. A full list of donors is published on our website. If you have any queries please contact the office at office@stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH ONGOING 3
MINGARY COUNSELLING SERVICE The Mingary Counselling Service provides confidential counselling for a broad range of issues, within a caring and professional setting. The low cost service provides high quality counselling for an affordable fee. Male and female counsellors are available and there are no limits on the number of sessions you may attend. The Mingary Counselling Service operates under the auspices of St Michael’s Uniting Church but does not promote religious beliefs. Our services are available to all members of the community, regardless of background. Cost: $30 initial consultation and $20 subsequent consultations.
ST MICHAEL’S ADMINISTRATION BUILDING MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM to 5PM MORE INFORMATION www.mingarycounselling.com.au or call 03 9654 5120 4
MINGARY THE QUIET PLACE
A peaceful, non-denominational sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures. Occasionally we need time to refocus: time to pause, time to reflect, time to let positive thoughts and positive emotions be strengthened. For this purpose Mingary, the Quiet Place was constructed. Mingary is a place for personal reflection and a peaceful escape from the hectic demands of city life. It offers a haven where people may restore a sense of strength and vitality. You are invited to visit Mingary, the Quiet Place and experience the healing, restoration, inspiration, vision and empowerment it can foster within you. HOURS 8AM - 5PM, MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 1PM, SUNDAY ADDRESS Russell Street entrance of St Michael’s MORE INFORMATION stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 5
JOIN THE MINGARY CORACLE
Join “The Mingary Coracle” and help spread the word about Mingary, The Quiet Place. In times gone by, people living on the many small islands of Scotland would travel carrying food, comfort and friendship to their neighbouring islands in a small boat called a Coracle. With this in mind “The Mingary Coracle” focuses on carrying the words of Mingary, The Quiet Place to those in need. By joining “The Mingary Coracle” you are helping to spread the word about this unique space in the heart of Melbourne. Reach out to your friends and family and tell them about Mingary, The Quiet Place. Invite them to experience its soothing quietness, its silence and strength. • Write a letter to someone you think might benefit from visiting Mingary, The Quiet Place. Download a sample letter from our website. • Visit our website and share our mini-documentary on your social media networks. • Give the Mingary Meditation Book to a friend. Collect a copy from The Quiet Place, the St Michael’s office or download a digital version of the book from our website www.stmichaels.org.au/mingary.
MINGARY, THE QUIET PLACE ONGOING 6
COMMUNION
BAPTISMS
Communion takes place on the first Sunday of every month during Morning Service.
The baptism ceremony is a special occasion for you and your family and St Michael’s can make it a memorable experience.
The bread and wine are held up as symbols of life, nurture and strength in all the exigencies of our existence. The bread and wine are then taken to all to share. Visit www.stmichaels.org.au for more information.
Baptisms usually occur on the second Sunday of every month, during the morning service, however this is subject to change so please call to discuss. Sunday service begins at 10am. Baptisms occur at the start of the service. If you have any queries please, do not hesitate to contact us on 03 9654 5120 or email office@stmichaels.org.au. Download an information booklet from www.stmichaels.org.au.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 7
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH 2ND SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH
GUMNUT CRÈCHE
WEDDINGS
The Gumnut Crèche is located on level one of the St Michael’s Administration building.
For a relevant ceremony in a magnificent church, St Michael’s has been the church of choice for weddings since 1867.
The crèche is for children whose parents/carers are attending the Church Service at St Michael’s. It is staffed by accredited professional childcare workers. There is no charge for this service. Crèche hours are: • Sunday morning 9.30am-11.30am. • Good Friday 8.30am-10.30am. • Christmas Day 8.30am-10.30am.
LEVEL 1, ADMIN BUILDING SUNDAYS
St Michael’s is a beautiful heritage listed building in the heart of the city, complete with a welcoming warmth and an unsurpassed ambience. We are accepting of couples regardless of religious beliefs and previous marital experience. A comprehensive Information Kit is available from our website www.stmichaels.org.au.
MORE INFORMATION stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 8
PROCESSIONAL STAFF
MORNING TEAS
The Processional Staff is carried each Sunday by a person who is wishing to remember an occasion or person in their lives.
Throughout the year we hold special morning teas to enable members and visitors an opportunity to meet the Minister after Sunday Service in a quieter setting than the usual morning tea for the entire congregation.
Carrying the Staff is a great way to participate in the Sunday Service. Those wishing to volunteer to carry the staff are encouraged to put their name down at the Enquiries Table in the Hall any Sunday.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH SUNDAYS 9
Provide contact details at the Visitors and Information Table in the Hall after service if you would like to be part of a ‘Meet the Minister’ morning tea.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH VARIOUS SUNDAYS
FLOWER DONATIONS
ST MICHAEL’S LIBRARY
Each week there is a beautiful display of flowers in the church donated by people like you.
The library at St Michael’s has been a valued resource for many years.
If you would like to donate the flowers for a Sunday service in celebration or remembrance of a special person or moment please contact the office on 03 9654 5120.
There is a wide selection of books about psychology, theology and spirituality, plus biographies and some fiction; Dr Macnab’s books are well represented. Loans are available (two books per loan) for four weeks at a time. Open after the service each Sunday, there are comfy chairs for a quiet read, and everyone is welcome. Drop in to browse and/or borrow, and enjoy the best view at St Michael’s!
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH ONGOING
LEVEL 1, ADMIN BUILDING OPEN SUNDAYS 12PM - 1PM 10
BAYSIDE BOOK GROUP
GLOBAL CONCERNS
The Bayside Book Group meets every six weeks in the homes of group members on a Sunday afternoon from 2.30pm.
Global Concerns is a collective group within St Michael’s which raises funds for various social justice programs. The hard-working Global Concerns team raises the majority of their funds through a stall each Sunday after morning service selling a variety of books, CDs, home-made food and a range of other items.
Members live in the general Bayside areas of Brighton, Beaumaris, Cheltenham, Bentleigh, Malvern and South Yarra. For further information please contact Lyndell O’Brien via the office.
Donations are made to a diverse range of organisations including: • The Big Tent Project • Make a Wish Foundation • Whitelion and Open Family • David Burgess Foundation • Lifestart • Hawthorn Auxiliary of Royal Women’s Hospital • Uniting Age Well • Asylum seekers and refugee organisations and many more.
MORE INFORMATION 03 9654 5120
ST MICHAEL’S HALL SUNDAY’S AFTER SERVICE
11
MEMBERSHIP AT ST MICHAEL’S
CONTACT AND CARE
Becoming a member is about making a commitment to being part of St Michael’s.
As a city church with a strong online presence and a rich history St Michael’s has developed many ‘congregations’. These include people who attend the church, those who attend programs, internet and social media followers, people who join us for special events such as marriages and baptisms, and those who are overseas or cannot come in person but continue to see St Michael’s as ‘their’ place.
You may have been coming to St Michael’s for many years or you may have only attended a few events. If you would like to affirm the work of St Michael’s, or create a new understanding of what the faith can mean to people in the 21st century, then you may wish to become a member. St Michael’s consistently seeks to blend a helpful integration of psychology and religion, and a positive voice in the Interfaith movement. If you would like to know more or talk to someone about becoming a member, please contact the office on 03 9654 5120.
MORE INFORMATION 03 9654 5120
Our Contact and Care Team aims to assure all who see themselves as associated with St Michael’s, that they are part of a network of caring. The team, drawn from the church council keeps ‘watch’ for people needing or welcoming some care. We welcome you keeping in touch with us, especially at important or difficult times in your life.
MORE INFORMATION 03 9654 5120 12
FRENCH CONVERSATIONS
Join native French speaker, Johanna Hersey, for a fun and informal French conversation class where all are welcome to practice their French and receive some pointers in basic French conversation skills. Beginners and fluent speakers alike will find someone to chat to in French with help and guidance on hand.
TRIVIA CHALLENGE We are pleased to announce that on the Trivia Challenge presented by Val and John Little is back due to popular demand. Covering a range of topics including sport, geography, films, politics, music, musicals, literature, history, and general knowledge. Join in the fun in teams of no more than six and meet with St Michael’s people. If you do not have a team do not worry, teams will be formed on the day. Register your interest at the Information Desk on Sundays or email ironacton@bigpond.com. It will assist us knowing the number of chairs and tables to have set up.
WELLBEING STUDIO SUN 1 MAY 11.45AM SUN 3 JUL 11.45AM
WARATAH ROOM SUN 15 MAY 11.45AM - 12.40PM SUN 19 JUN 11.45AM - 12.40PM
FREE EVENT
FREE EVENT
13
HUGH MACKAY BOOK LAUNCH
BEYOND BELIEF HOW WE FIND MEANING AND PURPOSE WITHOUT RELIGION Hear one of Australia’s most respected authors and social researchers Hugh Mackay talk about his new book, Beyond Belief: How we find meaning, with or without religion. At a time when 61 percent of Australians still identify as Christian but only 8 percent attend church weekly, Mackay tackles one of the big questions about contemporary Australia: how do we find our sense of meaning and purpose when religious faith and practice are in such sharp decline? (And why are enrolments at church schools skyrocketing?) There will be an opportunity to purchase his new book and have it signed.
ST MICHAEL’S HALL WED 11 MAY 6PM FREE EVENT PLEASE RSVP stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 14
HOPE: HELPING OUR PLANET EARTH
THE BLUE SERIES EXHIBITION
St Michael’s environment group, explores the environmental issues of concern for the wellbeing of our planet.
Casey Freeman is a local Melbourne artist, wife and mother. She spends the mornings chasing toddlers and in the evenings transforms into an artist with blue stained fingertips.
There will be guest speakers to inform and enlighten you and a discussion about the actions we can take in our home and workplaces to better care for our world. Gain credible information to become more aware and more active in environmental matters. Every individual can help care for the environment and these workshops will help you to do that. Please bring with you an inquisitive mind and some good ideas to add to the discussions.
GREVILLEA & WARATAH ROOM SUN 15 MAY 11.45AM (Grevillia) SUN 10 JUL 11.45AM (Waratah) FREE EVENT 15
Her ink paintings are an exploration of the colour blue as it appears in our natural surroundings. Depicting ocean currents, moody cloudscapes, and mountainous silhouettes, this exhibition features ambiguous forms that evoke a sense of simplicity and purity. Casey feels that her ink washes develop a certain visual presence, which act as an invitation for self reflection.
ST MICHAEL’S GALLERY OPENING CELEBRATIONS SUN 22 MAY 11.45AM - 1PM EXHIBITION DATES 22 MAY - 19 JUNE
A COCKROACH’S VIEW AFTER 45 YEARS UNDER THE PULPIT PILLOW ST MICHAEL’S 1971-2016. THE REBELLION REVERBERATION, RELUCENCE, RESHAPELESCENCE The cockroach has seen it all. 45 years of reshaping the direction, purpose and passion of a unique church. 45 years within one of Australia’s most innovative churches. Dr Francis Macnab presents this free lecture that will tell of the remarkable renewal of a city church and its people. It is a tale of “the phoenix rising from the ashes”. This evening will be of interest to all who would like to hear how a worn-out church has reinvented itself, ready for the next era. It will also be of interest to the many who over the years have been part of this story.
ST MICHAEL’S HALL THU 26 MAY 6PM FREE EVENT PLEASE RSVP stmichaels.org.au or call 03 9654 5120 16
SUCCESSFUL AGEING FOR GROWTH AND ENJOYMENT A monthly seminar offering psychological insights into healthy ageing in a friendly interactive forum. Dr Francis Macnab created S.A.G.E. to help people build strategies to cope with the big stresses in the years post-55, reshape their meaning of life, deal with the fears that flit through these years, learn and live well. The work of S.A.G.E is continuing and expanding with Clinical Psychologist Julijana Chochovski (pictured above with Dr Macnab) “The S.A.G.E. Seminars attract so many older people and I’m not surprised considering the important topics they discuss, all of which help older people to age well.” - Noeline Brown
ST MICHAEL’S HALL FRI 27 MAY 11AM - 1PM FRI 24 JUN 11AM - 1PM TICKETS $20 (including tea/coffee and a light lunch) 17
INTERVIEW WITH PROF KATHRYN VON TREUER Dr Francis Macnab will interview the newly appointed Executive Director of Cairnmillar Professor Kathryn von Treuer during this Sunday Service. Professor von Treuer took up her appointment at Cairnmillar on the 1st of April and is a registered psychologist; an endorsed health and organisational psychologist, and sits on the Psychology Board of Australia.
WHAT MATTERS IN THE END Discover your end-of-life options at these three informative sessions. Making plans for your funeral is a task easily postponed. Explore your options and create an ending that reflects your life and what is important to you. Give yourself the peace of mind of knowing that when the time comes; things will be done your way, without placing the burden on your loved ones. The program will include helpful advice on how to produce a document that includes all your final wishes.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH SUN 29 MAY 10AM-11AM
Presented by Marilyn Cobain and Janette James. WELLBEING STUDIO SUN 29 MAY 11.45AM SUN 26 JUN 11.45AM SUN 17 JUL 11.45AM
FREE EVENT
FREE EVENT 18
ST MICHAEL’S MUSIC GALA Celebrating the music that has inspired Dr Francis Macnab for over 45 years. Experience the rich acoustics and breathtaking ambience of St Michael’s gala event. The program will include works by Shostakovich, Mahler, Prokofiev, Mozart and others, and a new work based on a text by Dr Francis Macnab. Performing artists include: • Evgeny Chebykin (Horn) • Rebecca Adler (Violin) • Zoe Black (Violin) • Zoe Wallace (Cello) • Joe Chindamo (Piano) • David Paterson (Piano) • Rhys Boak (Organ & Piano) • The Academy of St Michael’s
ST MICHAEL’S HALL SUN 5 JUN 12.30PM FREE EVENT 19
NEW FAITH DISCUSSION GROUP
GUIDED AWARENESS AND MEDITATION
A study group led by Neil Blood, to discuss new faith philosophy, values and ethics as presented at St Michael’s by its minister of 45 years Dr Francis Macnab.
Join meditation practitioner Sian Ellett and discover the energy of your body and the world around you through guided awareness.
Our theme for 2016 is: A Creative Faith For Our Times. You are invited to join the conversation as we consider: Our times ---- Our lives ---- Our faith.
This 1 hour session will include: • a welcome and introduction to the concept of guided meditation. • a guided body awareness meditation, utilising movement, visualisation and breath; • discussion of experiences and time to ask questions. Sian is a writer and meditation practitioner specialising in health, wellbeing, meditation and personal development.
GREVILLEA ROOM SUN 12 JUN 11.45AM
WELLBEING STUDIO SUN 15 MAY 12PM SUN 12 JUN 12PM SUN 31 JUL 12PM
FREE EVENT
DONATION ON ENTRY 20
IN CONVERSATION WITH DR FRANCIS MACNAB WITH SPECIAL GUEST BISHOP IAN GEORGE Special guest Bishop Ian George, former Archbishop of Adelaide, joins Dr Francis Macnab during this Sunday Service. A rare glimpse into the life and history of a unique city church through the eyes of two inspirational leaders. This event will be part of the Sunday Service and will take the place of Dr Macnab’s Sunday Address. Join us after the service for refreshments and conversation in the hall.
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH SUN 19 JUN 10AM FREE EVENT 21
PHILOSOPHY FOR BEGINNERS
I FOUND HAPPINESS EXHIBITION
THINKING OUTSIDE THE SQUARE
Christine Minter is a self-taught Melbourne artist with a passion for painting.
A lively, interactive discussion group, presented by Dr Peter Kingsbury, focusing on thinking outside the square. Designed to inspire innovative thinking.
creative
and
Her works include mixed media acrylic on canvas. She uses colour to evoke a feeling of happiness and calm and her use of texture suggests movement and depth. The inspiration for most of Christine’s art comes from landscapes and the ocean. She was a recent winner of the 2015 St Michael’s Art Prize.
ST MICHAEL’S GALLERY CAMELLIA ROOM SUN 29 MAY 11.45AM SUN 26 JUN 11.45AM FREE EVENT
OPENING CELEBRATIONS SUN 26 JUN 12PM - 1PM EXHIBITION DATES 26 JUN - 31 JUL 22
MOBILE MINDS WORKSHOP
WEEKDAY TOURS
Get more out of your mobile device with these ‘show and tell’ sessions designed to allow users to share interesting apps and ideas with others.
Find out more about the history of St Michael’s and join us for a free tour of the church, Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 1pm. Our volunteer tour guides have much to share and would be delighted to see you.
Current users of a smartphone or tablet are invited to attend. Both Apple and Android users are welcome. Take advantage of the life-boosting potential of your mobile device with interesting, informative, entertaining and helpful apps. Bring your mobile device and your ideas to share with others. After the workshop, try out the ideas that interest you.
Bookings are not required, however, please call us to confirm that tour guides will be present on that day if you are coming in especially to see the Church. If you have a group wishing to tour the Church please contact the office. Social and school groups are very welcome.
WARATAH ROOM SUN 26 JUN 11.45AM
ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH MON - FRI 10.30AM-1PM
FREE EVENT
Call 03 9654 5120 to confirm availability
23
A message for Dr Francis Macnab Celebrating 45 years. Write your kind thoughts here. Help us celebrate Dr Francis Macnab 45 years as the Executive Minister of St Michael’s. Write your kind thoughts on the form on the opposite page and send it to the St Michael’s Office. Messages received will be compiled and where appropriate included in a special Intersection Newsletter and on our website.
___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________
SEND THE COMPLETED FORM TO: St Michael’s, 120 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000 24
St Michael’s 1 2 0 C O L L I N S S T M E LBO U R N E – W W W. S TMI CHA E L S . O RG . A U – 0 3 9 6 5 4 5 1 2 0