New Times - June 2014

Issue 33, No 5, 2014

The voice of Uniting Church SA

June 2014

Peace FINDING PEACE

PARENTING FOR PEACE

Discovering peace

Peaceful living

in the darkness

practices

p.7

p.11

For details call

Contents

8370 3756

FEATURES Youth across SA to live life loud 5 Finding peace when a Black Dog sleeps in your corner 7 Peace through sharing 8 Parenting for peace 11 Kids born to fly on the Eyre Peninsula 24 REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s comment 4 Getting to know...

18-19 Diary 20 Letters 21 Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Loan Leane Design: David Lombardi & Bindy Taylor Print: Graphic Print Group For editorial inquiries: p. (08) 8236 4249 e. newtimes@sa.uca.org.au m. The Editor,

New Times GPO Box 2145

Adelaide SA 5001 For advertising bookings: p. (08) 7007 9020 e. advertising.newtimes@sa.uca.org.au

w: newtimes.sa.uca.org.au facebook.com/NewTimesUCA ISSN 0726-2612 New Times is the voice of Uniting Church SA. Published monthly, February through December, New Times represents the breadth, diversity and vision of Uniting Church members in SA. News policies, guides and deadlines appear online at newtimes.sa.uca.org.au. Articles and advertising do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor.

Print circulation: 9,750 Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie St, Adelaide p. (08) 8236 4200 f. 8236 4201 country callers. 1300 766 956

Next issue: Seeking strength Everyone endures times of trial in their lives. While it is not always easy, we are able to turn to God for strength during such periods. The July edition of New Times details the stories of congregations and individuals within the Uniting Church SA, providing an opportunity to share their experiences in turning to God during times of need.

DEADLINE FOR JULY 2014

Wednesday 11 June

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Cover details

As well as being a part of the Uniting Church logo, doves are a traditional Christian symbol of peace.

This dove illustration has been created by Dave Lombardi especially for this edition of New Times.

Placements News Placements finalised since the May edition of New Times: Rev Sue Ellis to Western Eyre from 1 June, 2014 Rev Bob Britton to Bordertown, Buckingham and Mundulla from 1 August, 2014 Rev Jock Dunbar to Rosefield from 1 October, 2014 Graham Ingram, Lay Pastor, to Goyder Ministry Area (0.8) Rev Nigel Rogers as General Secretary from 14 July, 2014 Upcoming induction services: Rev Sue Ellis, Western Eyre (Cummins, Lock and Yeelanna) on Sunday 15 June, 10.30am at Yeelanna Uniting Church Vacant Placements: Profiles available – Aldinga-McLaren Vale Linked Congregations; Bridgewater (0.5); Clare; County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Flinders Congregations (Booleroo Centre, Booleroo Whim, Melrose, Murray Town, Wilmington and Wirrabarra); Lighthouse; Port Pirie; Mallala and Two Wells (0.6); Newland (0.5 - 0.7); Port Augusta Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress; Waikerie; Whyalla; Yilki (0.3).

Profiles not yet available – Windsor Gardens (0.5).

For more information on any of these placements, or to view national placements, please visit sa.uca.org.au/pastoral-relations/placements-vacant

editorial

Finding peace in protest

I’ve always been the sort of person who likes to keep the peace. I find conflict unsettling and upsetting. When conflicts arise I find myself becoming increasingly stressed and anxious, waiting for a moment when I can break the tension with a placatory comment or silly joke.

Sometimes I have to leave the room.

But my dislike of disagreements is something I am increasingly being forced to overcome. In recent times, I have found a sense of peace not in soothing others but in taking action for what I believe in, particularly through peaceful protests and campaign participation.

Cities across Australia have recently played host to a number of nonviolent demonstrations and protests, many in reaction to current policies surrounding the treatment of asylum seekers and refugees.

The Uniting Church in Australia – its leaders, congregations and members – has been drawn to take part in these demonstrations.

Earlier this year, people from the Uniting Church joined marches and assemblies, many participated in the “Jesus was a refugee” campaign, and some even took part in a ‘sit-in’ at the office of the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Scott Morrison.

Many chose to take part out of particular concern for the fate of children being held in detention.

In March, the Uniting Church issued a statement offering sanctuary for the unaccompanied children seeking asylum who are currently being held on Christmas Island. It was an offer prompted by information stating these children would soon be moved to Nauru.

Minister Morrison's reply states that current policy prevents this from being possible.

On Monday 19 May, leaders and members of the Uniting, Baptist, Catholic and Anglican churches staged sit-ins at the offices of Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Federal Opposition leader Bill Shorten. * The peaceful occupiers of these office spaces, in Sydney and Melbourne respectively, gathered to pray, sing and offer Bible readings as a response to bipartisan policies related to offshore detention, particularly that of children. Attendees drew on many Bible verses while stationed in the office, including a poignant passage from Leviticus:

When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not ill-treat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.

I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 19:33-34, NIV Among those risking arrest by participating in these peaceful demonstrations were New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory Moderator Rev Dr Brian Brown and past Uniting Church President Alistair Macrae. Although Section 6 of the Uniting Church’s Code of Ethics for ministers says that “it is unethical for ministers to deliberately break the law,” it goes on to state that the “only exception would be in instances of political resistance or civil disobedience.” The act of civil disobedience that Uniting Church leaders have recently participated in emphasises how important the issue of children in detention is for many.

My own involvement has been less extreme than these sit-ins, but I have found it encouraging to see our church leaders taking such an important role in standing up for the vulnerable and representing the inadequacies of current offshore detention policies.

There may be those among you, the readers of New Times, who disagree with me on this issue or on others. But, although I will certainly still be respectful when voicing my opinions, I’ve decided that it is not worth placating people and keeping silent if my own heart is not at peace. Through nonviolent demonstrations, letter-writing, survey-signing and multiple other channels, I am trying to fight for what I believe is right – despite my dislike of arguments and conflict.

So next time you see something that doesn’t seem right, I encourage you not to simply shove the thought aside in an attempt to keep the peace. Instead, take action, speak out and experience a sense of God’s peace in your heart and mind. Sometimes we must ‘disturb the peace’ in order to be at peace with ourselves. *The occupation of ministers’ offices was organised by #LoveMakesAWay, an ecumenical movement of Christians seeking to non-violently alter Australia’s current asylum seeker policies through prayer and love in action. For more information, please visit facebook.com/LoveMakesAWayForAsylumSeekers

Catherine Hoffman

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moderator

Creating peaceful spaces “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

This ancient Jewish prayer is what comes to mind for me, as we focus on peace in this edition of New Times. On Easter Sunday, we shared this prayer with the Christian community who gathered at a water hole just outside of Oodnadatta. We prayed for God’s blessing, grace and peace to shine upon the nine people who had just been baptised.

At that moment, there was a deep sense of joy and peace – God’s Spirit surrounding us with the reassurance of God’s sustaining presence in whatever life circumstances we find ourselves in, now and into the future.

Peace is part of God’s vision and desire for us – to be at peace with God and living peacefully with each other. Jesus calls us to peacemaking: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). The word ‘peacemaking’ suggests an active participation in God’s mission in the world. It’s not about keeping quiet or passive withdrawal. It’s about advocacy for relating to one another in ways that promote peace, justice and reconciliation.

Martin Luther King Jr highlighted the way in which peace and justice are intertwined:“Without justice, there can be no peace.”

As this article goes to press, I am preparing to travel to Melbourne for the Australia Talks Family conference. It is an opportunity for people from across Australia to gather and “explore possibilities for a better future for our children and their families.” This conference coincides with the 20th anniversary of the United Nations International Year of the Family. It comes at a time when many families around the world are being torn apart by outbreaks of violence, particularly in Ukraine, South Sudan and Nigeria. As I write this, Nigerian parents are desperately seeking international help in finding their daughters, who have been abducted by terrorists objecting to the education of females.

While we contribute to addressing these global situations through prayer and various expressions of solidarity and advocacy, we are also called to local expressions of peacemaking. The work of peacemaking begins when we are young. It’s the work our parents do with us. It’s the work our faith communities do to convey to us a way of being in the world that fits God’s vision of a place of peace with justice.

Research indicates that children who see adults around them working for peace and justice are more likely to be hopeful about the world and to believe they can act to make a difference.

Christian formation includes creating homes, faith communities and neighbourhoods that are peaceful spaces.

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Homes and communities where parents and children respect one another.

Homes and communities where people are able to resolve conflicts and differences in non-violent ways.

Homes and communities where every person has a voice and is heard.

Homes and communities where women and men have equal status.

Homes and communities where people learn to respect others who are different to themselves.

Homes and communities where we learn to love, to forgive, and to be reconciled in life-giving and empowering ways.

Peacemaking happens on a global scale through civil rights, liberation movements and diplomatic negotiations, and it happens locally when children, youth and adults capture a vision of what they can do in their daily lives to work for peace.

May we be peacemakers, workers for justice and embodiments of God’s compassion in the way we live.

Dr Deidre Palmer

Dr Deidre Palmer baptises a young woman in Oodnadatta.

news

Youth across SA to live life loud At the Formation, Education and Discipleship unit gathering at Nunyara in May this year, other states shared their vision for launching their own Live Life Loud events, connecting Uniting Church youth across the nation.

“Our vision is to see young people from different churches uniting in mission, seeing them become agents of change in their local communities,” Will states.

To find out more about Live Life Loud or to access promotional materials, please visit livelifeloud.org.au or contact Katrina Levi on 8236 4266 or unitingyouth@sa.uca.org.au Live Life Loud will be utilising social media using the hash tag #lll2014 on facebook.com/UnitingYouthSA and instagram.com/ unitingyouthsa Eyre Peninsula Where: Cleve Town Hall, Cleve.

When: Friday 27 June, 6.30pm for a BBQ before the event, which will conclude at 9pm.

Speaker: Pete Riggs.

For further details, please contact Steve Hanneman on 8628 4097.

Adding an exciting new location to the line-up this year, the Uniting Church SA Youth and Young Adult team will join with local churches to run Live Life Loud again this month. Dynamic speakers have been engaged to share at each of the five locations hosting the high energy worship event.

“It’s a chance for young people to share in worship and, hopefully, to have transformational encounters with God,” says Will Hall, the Uniting Young People Team Leader and one of the creators of the event.

“Since starting Live Life Loud in 2010, we’ve heard a lot of encouraging stories. It’s been great to see more and more people coming along each year.”

Held on Friday 27 June at locations scattered across South Australia, Live Life Loud promises to be full of inspirational worship, food and fun. This year, Live Life Loud has added a new location in the Adelaide Hills, an area where many Christian churches have strong contingents of youth.

“Each Live Life Loud event is ecumenical and provides a great way for locals from different youth groups and congregations to get to know one another better,” explains Katrina Levi, Uniting Church SA Youth and Young Adults Administrator.

“Holding the event across five different locations on the one night also allows youth groups to feel like they’re connected to something bigger – the broader Uniting Church.”

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Hills Where: Sunset Rock Uniting Church, Stirling.

When: Friday 27 June, 6.30pm for a BBQ before a 7.30pm start.

Speaker: Dave Shepherd.

For further details, please contact Aidan Mitchell on 0433 385 245.

Mid North Where: Horizon Christian School, Balaklava.

When: Friday 27 June, 6.30pm for a BBQ before the event, which will conclude at 10pm.

Speaker: Scott Hawkins.

For further details, please contact Lee Cunningham on 0429 621 143.

North Where: The Journey Uniting Church, Golden Grove.

When: Friday 27 June, 6.30pm for a BBQ before a 7pm start.

Speaker: Brenton Killeen.

For further details, please contact Mike Wardrop on 0430 666 959.

South Where: Seeds Uniting Church, Aberfoyle Park.

When: Friday 27 June, 6.30pm for a BBQ before a 7.30pm start.

Speaker: Cullen Bailey.

For further details, please contact Shane Rayner on 0468 453 654.

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news

Continuing conversations about change

Rev Nigel Rogers with Dr Deidre Palmer.

Meetings and management On Saturday 17 May, a special meeting of the South Australian Synod of the Uniting Church was called to consider and vote on the nomination for the placement of General Secretary.

The Joint Nominating Committee presented Rev Nigel Rogers for the position and a vote of members appointed Nigel to the role.

Nigel is a Minister of the Word in the Uniting Church in Australia.

He was ordained in 2010. His previous roles have included work with children, youth and families in Uniting Church congregations in Queensland and New South Wales. He is currently serving as Senior Minister of Pittwater Uniting Church in NSW. Standing Committee appointed Rev Rob Brown (current Executive Officer of UnitingCare SA) as interim General Secretary until Nigel begins his placement on Monday 14 July, 2014.

The Presbytery and Synod of South Australia will hold their regular June meeting on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 June. The July edition of New Times will include coverage of the items discussed at the meeting.

Newly ordained On the evening of Sunday 18 May, Stephanie Tai was ordained as a Minister of the Word in the Uniting Church in South Australia.

The service, held at Journey Uniting Church in Golden Grove, was led by Dr Deidre Palmer with Rev Tim Hein also giving a short message. Contemporary worship songs, prayer, the laying on of hands and communion all formed key parts of the service. Stephanie spoke passionately about her call to serve God, thanking those who have nurtured and encouraged her during her faith journey. After the service concluded, attendees gathered together for supper to celebrate with Stephanie and her family.

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Over the last two to three years, many people in the Uniting Church in South Australia have been challenged to think about the Church’s future and what it means to ‘be church’ in Australia today.

Two documents relevant to these conversations are the “Changing Landscapes” discussion papers and the draft “Charter for a Pilgrim People.” The Charter was developed to help church councils and congregations consider what it means to be a community of disciples and pilgrim people, holding carefully, thoughtfully but lightly to tradition, property and structures. Rev Paul Turley’s recent articles in New Times, including one on page 15 of this edition, are designed to contribute to the discussion around these challenging materials.

In the coming months there will be several opportunities for individuals and congregations to study, discuss, debate and provide feedback regarding the material contained in these thought-provoking documents. A series of seven studies, suitable for use by small groups, church councils or individuals, will be launched at the upcoming June Presbytery and Synod meeting.

These materials will be available in hard copy and online, and will offer questions for reflection, Bible study, theological reflection and suggestions for further action. These include practices that we believe might help us become a “pilgrim people always on the way towards a promised goal” (Basis of Union, paragraph 3).

Two forums will be held at Adelaide West Uniting Church on Friday 20 June prior to the Presbytery and Synod meeting. The first forum will be held from 2-3.30pm and the second from 4-5.30pm. These sessions will be significant in forming discussion around these issues.

All within the Uniting Church in South Australia are encouraged to participate in the continuing conversation around these issues at this pivotal time for the church and our rapidly changing world.

For further information about the two June forums, please watch for updates in UC e-news or contact Wendy Perkins on wperkins@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4284.

To view the “Changing Landscapes” discussion papers or the “Charter for a Pilgrim People,” please visit sa.uca.org.au/strategic-plan

peace Peace is the tangible symbol of shalom that we so urgently need. But, in our troubled world, peace and hope can sometimes be difficult to find. In times of challenge, the belief that God is present in all circumstances, offering refuge to all those in need, reminds us of God’s blessing for our lives.

Finding peace when a Black Dog sleeps in your corner Rev Sarah Agnew

I first experienced depression when I was 17, reeling from the stress of Year 12, losing friends to their different paths, and still isolated after five years of chronic back pain.

I realised that it was depression as I studied for my first year psychology exams, seeing in myself the symptoms of ‘major depression.’

At its worst, I retreated into the dark cave of my innermost self, creating distance from friends and family. Eventually I found myself, figuratively, sitting in a dark cave with my hand on the trapdoor to escape. Literally, I was sitting in the kitchen, alone, considering the ways I could die so the pain would end.

I don’t know how long I sat there, but at some point I realised my housemate would soon return home, and I moved from kitchen chair to bed.

Years later, I would reflect on that night when I sat, seemingly paralysed, unable to call for help yet also unable to cause myself harm. Looking back, it felt as though there might have been angels beside me - if not holding me down, then holding me true to myself. Who knows?

I do not think God judges or rejects those who take their life; I think they are welcomed in their vulnerability and deep need. I think this way because of the stories of Jesus.

It felt to me as though I had looked up in the darkness and discovered that I was not, after all, alone. Though I had let go of everyone else, I had not let go of God. For me, the connection with the Divine has been intrinsic to life itself – I have never known God to not be with me. We used to sing about God never letting us go, but what gave me the courage to get up and climb towards the light was that I had never let go

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of God. As I undertook the difficult climb out of that cave, the knowledge that I had chosen life gave me a calm confidence, a sense of peace.

Since then, I have flowed in and out of depression. I have never returned to the dark cave, but, along the way, a Black Dog began to accompany me. Doctors have suggested I might be able to be free of depression, but I know this illness well and I suspect it is here to stay. Mostly, the dog lies sleeping beside me and rarely stirs – we battle far less these days.

But how do I find peace with a Black Dog sleeping in the corner of my life?

I find great peace in the fact that I chose life, I chose God, and I chose to live in the hope and fullness of being I continually find in God. It’s done. The choice is made.

As a result of this choice and its influence, I committed to discerning how I would find fullness of being in my life. I have since found peace in my identity and role as storyteller, poet and minister. I experience this peace as wholeness; in this identity and role, I have found a way to live into the fullness of my being. I believe this fullness is God’s dream for each of us. When we find a way to live into the fullness of our own being, the striving for wholeness draws us on to seek this fullness for each other.

In addition to finding contentment in my vocation, I strove to find daily practices that would nurture my wellbeing – spiritually, physically, mentally. I now practice tai chi, balance time alone and with others, eat well, get enough sleep, and walk in the sunshine.

I find peace through these practices, which connect me to the Holy and to my healed, whole self.

Peace for me comes with acceptance and understanding. Peace comes with kindness and love – for myself and for others. Peace resides within me because God abides with me, and I choose to abide in God. You can read more of Sarah’s story at sarahtellsstories.blogspot.com.au Sarah is leading a team producing an event for Beyond Blue to be held at The Corner Uniting Church at 3.30pm on Sunday 20 July.

Please check UC e-news for further details or contact Sarah on 0408 087 754 or sarahagnew@adam.com.au

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peace

Peace through sharing Rev Dr Trevor Whitney is a disabilities ministry chaplain and Chaplaincy Coordinator at Uniting College for Leadership and Theology. Here he shares the story of one of the people he supports through his chaplaincy work.

In 2001 I commenced as a chaplain at Disability SA in Highgate Park (formerly Julia Farr Services), an Adelaide institution that accommodates people with debilitating disabilities.

Soon after starting I met Venetia, a wife and a devoted mother of three adult children who was now in her 60s. During the 1980s, Venetia was compelled to relinquish her satisfying domestic, suburban lifestyle to move into Julia Farr Services. She had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a condition she may well have been living with for many years prior.

Before coming to Julia Farr, Venetia had gradually begun to have difficulty walking; now, she spends her days in a wheelchair.

But Venetia has made good use of her time at Julia Farr, becoming involved in a variety of craft activities and successfully completing six TAFE-level certificates in areas such as creative writing and arithmetic. Venetia had loved school as a child but was required to leave at an early age to obtain a job. Her time at Julia Farr gave her new opportunities to learn and do what she had never been able to when she was younger.

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The influence of Venetia's life and achievements were readily seen when entering her room at Julia Farr. The small sanctuary was gloriously cluttered with family photos plastered over the walls, collections of dolls and figurines assembled lovingly and Christmas presents from her family proudly displayed – signs of her life outside of Julia Farr. Indicative of her achievements inside the centre, Venetia’s many prize-winning craft pieces adorned walls, shelves and her bedside table, in addition to her six TAFE certificates, which hung neatly in a row above her dresser.

Those who took the time to get to know Venetia would soon find themselves invited to read her life story, a volume that ran to a few dozen pages of carefully typed script.

In viewing her cluttered room, in reading her life story, and while listening at her bedside on many occasions as she recounted facets of her life, I found myself asking ‘why.’

Why the need to so emphatically make such a visual, literary and oral display of her life?

Although she never clearly explained the answer to this question, one particular story she told did give me a hint.

Over the past couple of years of her life, when she was increasingly in pain and frustratingly confined to her bed, Venetia told me how, as a youngster at school, she overheard her arithmetic teacher, Mr Jones, tell her parents, “She’ll never amount to anything.” All through her later years, as a wife, mother and Christian, Venetia remembered this story. As I listened to her on this occasion, she looked beyond me to those six TAFE certificates and, with considerable conviction and satisfaction, said, “Up yours, Mr Jones!”

The story of Mr Jones and his demeaning comment had stayed with Venetia. As the lifedenying effects of multiple sclerosis impacted her life, she was troubled by this memory. But through her commitment to life and learning, in sharing the story of her life, Venetia found validation, self-worth and peace.

As carers who, in God’s name, sit at bedsides, carefully listening to a life story unfold, may we believe that through listening and valuing we are giving rise to the possibility of the storyteller finding a measure of peace.

Story told with permission from Venetia.

peace

Peace of mind through safety Alistair Gee is the Executive Director of Act for Peace, the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia. Alistair shares the story of a man named Khalid, with whom he feels a sad kind of connection; it is a story about women, told by the men who care about them.

Khalid is a husband and a father, just like me. He lives with his family in the Shangla district, one of the poorest regions in Pakistan. I live in Sydney, one of the safest places on earth.

Both Khalid and I share a deep love for our family: they mean everything to us. Both of us have been living with the fear of losing one of the people we love most.

When Khalid learnt about his wife’s pregnancy, he feared the worst.

He knew all too well that, in villages like his, giving life could be a death sentence for a mother. In Pakistan, 12,000 women die from pregnancyrelated causes every year. This means that a woman dies every 43 minutes. And yet most of these deaths are preventable.

On Mother’s Day last month, I was reminded of the important roles that women and mothers play in our society, in our community and in my own family. One of my family members has been fighting a life-threatening disease over the past several months – a battle that my extended family has been facing with her. Through this, I have gained a greater understanding of the kind of fear Khalid must have faced.

Until recently, there was no medical clinic in Khalid’s village. To obtain medical supplies, villagers had to travel 65kms, something they simply could not afford to do. Without any medical care in his village, Khalid’s wife was forced to give birth at home with no access to even the most basic medical support. She did this not once, but three times.

“We could only rely on God’s will,” Khalid remembers.

Three times Khalid worried that something might go wrong and that his wife might die, just as many others do in rural Pakistan. Three times he had to live with knowledge that there was nothing he could do about it, nothing he could do to ensure her safety while giving birth.

Although my situation is very different, I feel I have been facing the same kind of fear as Khalid – that of losing a family member and of not being able to do anything to prevent it.

But there is something we can do to prevent Khalid, and people like him, from facing this particular fear in the future.

Church World Service-Pakistan/Afghanistan, a partner of Act for Peace, has recently re-established services at two clinics in the Shangla district, providing health care with a focus on maternal and infant care. The clinics provide doctors and medicine, employ female health workers and train traditional birth attendants.

With the support of the Uniting Church and the wider Australian church community, pregnant women, mothers, newborns and sick people will be able to get the right medical care and medicines – if there are enough funds. In the 15 years prior to the operation of the new clinics, only two women had access to local medical care while giving birth. Now, there are thousands of women getting the right care.

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None of us know for certain what the future holds for our family, but Khalid is now much more confident, his mind more at peace.

His fourth child was born at one of the clinics.

“Before the clinic opened, we had no idea of the kind of medicines or care my wife needed during her pregnancy,” Khalid states. “[Now] I know that my children will grow up healthier, as well as my wife.

This clinic has created a huge difference.”

When I think of Khalid and his family, I am deeply moved to see that providing medical support can help free a father and his whole family from fear.

For further information about Act for Peace programs in Pakistan or to donate to the cause, please visit actforpeace.org.au/pakistan or free call 1800 025 101.

Khalid with his fourth child.

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Supporting communities

Have you got a creative idea for helping to build a vibrant Uniting Church community?

Do you require assistance with an innovative project focussed on missional effectiveness? If so, Uniting Foundation may be able to offer support.

Each year, Uniting Foundation provides funding to successful applicants for projects that will significantly enhance missional opportunities of the Uniting Church in South Australia. In 2014, a total of $300,000 is available for distribution, and the grant round is now open.

Uniting Church SA congregations, faith communities and individuals are encouraged to apply for funding to assist with projects that demonstrate a capacity to extend the missional outcomes of the applying body and that are sustainable beyond the period of external funding.

Projects that align with the Uniting Church SA Presbytery and Synod Strategic Plan for 2013-2017 are particularly desirable, as are those that have the ability to influence other Uniting Church congregations and/or organisations. This year, special consideration will be given to fresh expressions and church plant projects.

Uniting Foundation currently has 17 active grants, including several projects where children’s and youth ministry workers are supported in roles within congregations and regions. Uniting Foundation also provides assistance in maintaining stipend ministry at the Adelaide Korean Congregation and the Northern Suburbs Dinka-Speaking Faith Community.

In addition to this, some limited financial support has been provided to congregations for improvements to facilities and equipment, enabling them to be more effective in their mission to the wider community. Applicants can seek funding for projects extending for a period of several years.

The Uniting Church Foundation Grants Committee is responsible for approving the allocation of Uniting Foundation grants. The committee is currently undergoing a time of change, having seen Rev Phil Pynor resign as Chairperson in the latter half of 2013. Rev Graham Humphris also concluded his placement on the committee as of Wednesday 30 April. In November 2013, the Standing Committee appointed Rev David Hoffman as Chairperson of the Uniting Church Foundation Grants Committee.

Uniting Foundation grant applications close on Monday 30 June, 2014.

Applicants will be advised of outcomes during August with funds available from September. To avoid ineligibility for a 2014 grant, a final project report is required from existing and former grant recipients.

Uniting Foundation grant application forms are available online at sa.uca.org. au/uniting-foundation/applying-for-agrant or by contacting Malcolm Wilson, Uniting Church Foundation Manager, via email mwilson@sa.uca.org.au or phone 8236 4206.

peace

Parenting for peace Mary Jo Zwar

Raising children can be challenging at the best of times. Nobody needs to teach children how to put themselves first or how to start an argument. The challenge is to recognise that conflict is inevitable in any relationship and to teach our children to be peacemakers: to respect others, get along with people and love others. Here are some ways we can parent for peace.

Peace that children observe • Seek inner peace: As parents we need to resolve our own internal conflicts so we don’t act out our own pain on our children through physical or verbal violence. We may need to seek or give forgiveness.

Therapy or counselling may help if unresolved hurtful memories lead to bitterness and anger.

• Be kind to your partner: Love your partner/s in parenting and work through any unresolved feelings that may exist between you.

Peace that children experience • Give your child safe touches: Hug your child warmly and often, even when they are bigger. Avoid hitting, slapping, beating or shouting at your children. This only frightens them and teaches them that violence is acceptable and that they are victims.

• Talk to your child: Tell them about your world and your feelings.

• Listen to your child: Allow and help your child to express their feelings. Provide a safe environment where they can cry when they are sad or rage when they are upset or angry.

Peace that children learn • Teach your child appropriate ways to deal with criticism and to express anger without hurting other people, animals or plants.

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• Teach your child about social justice and diversity. Create opportunities for them to get to know people of a variety of ages and backgrounds.

• Teach your child to calm themselves and develop a sense of inner peace, including how to ‘cool off’ when they are angry.

• Provide your child with strategies for solving conflict in ways that are non-violent and focus on win-win solutions.

• Teach your child to forgive.

• Work with your child in concrete ways to promote peace in the wider world.

• Show your child that joy and peace can result from simple acts of kindness.

No parent can do all that on their own. Just when we resolve to work for peace, babies cry, toddlers have temper tantrums, pre-teens get sassy or teenagers rebel. Even during times of celebration, our home may feel more like the eye of the storm than a haven of peace.

Peace is a gift from God. Like other gifts, we can refuse it or we can accept it: try it out, use it, be thankful for it and share it.

As parents we may be the way God gives the gift of peace to our children.

Reprinted with permission from Faith Family. Faith Family is a publication for churches to gift to parents and grandparents available through the Uniting Church SA Children & Family Ministry Team.

For further information, please call 8236 4281 or email children@sa.uca.org.au

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peace

Seeking refuge in music

The simple idea of starting a music class in the Villawood Detention Centre, Sydney, has created a vast network of instrument donors for asylum seekers in detention. Mardi Lumsden explores.

Sydney-based volunteer music teacher Philip Feinstein established classes inside the Villawood Immigration Detention Centre around two years ago. He has now expanded the Music for Refugees project to include almost all Australian immigration detention centres, including Christmas Island and Nauru.

After fleeing Apartheid South Africa in 1972, Philip appreciates the welcome he received from Australia and wants to share it with others.

“About four years ago I began to realise the terrible plight of refugees in Australia so I made contact with the Villawood Detention Centre,” he says.

“I believe music is a wonderful way to help people relieve stress.”

Serco, the company who manages Australia’s detention centres, was keen but had no instruments. Philip told someone the story and was instantly donated a piano. The piano turned out to be one Philip had sold more than 20 years prior. The project was off and running.

“I ended up getting five pianos for Villawood, over 30 guitars and violins and percussion and so on. Villawood is now chock-a-block with instruments. It now has music rooms and we have jams there.”

Music has been used as a therapy in places of incarceration for years and has proven to reduce self-harm, violence and negativity and to enhance self-esteem.

“A lot of what I do makes them feel good, which is very important, but I’m also thinking ahead. Advance Australia Fair is very important; these people will be new Australians so it is important that they know that,” says Philip.

His energy and passion for this project are infectious. Churches (and other organisations) act as drop-off points for members of the public

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to deliver instruments which are then taken to the various detention centres. The vast majority of drop-off points are Uniting Churches.

“I contacted Uniting Churches all over the country and they all came on board,” he says. “You guys put your money or your prayers where your mouth is and you really do help … your churches have been phenomenal.”

In South Australia, Pilgrim Uniting Church (12 Flinders St, Adelaide) and Mount Barker Uniting Church (13 Mann Street, Mount Barker) offer drop-off points for instruments. Instruments can be dropped off at the rear of the building at Pilgrim daily before 3.30pm or on Monday mornings only at Mount Barker.

The Music for Refugees project wants refugees who are no longer in detention to have a musical stress outlet. Community networks to continue music making are also important.

“The instrument collection has to be ongoing,” says Philip.

“They should be able to take their instrument with them. It doesn’t mean that because they are out of Villawood that their stress ends.

“Money is something we don’t need. All we want are instruments!”

The donation of small, portable instruments is encouraged (guitars, recorders, ukuleles, violins etc) but all instruments are welcome. Philip also suggests families contact their schools for any excess instruments that could be donated.

The article first appeared in Journey, the Uniting Church in Queensland publication.

For further information about this project, please visit jamwithus.net or musicforrefugees.org

peace

In trying times Earlier this year, fire ravaged many areas in regional South Australia including the Mount Lofty district of Rockleigh.

Rev Frances Bartholomeusz, a part-time pastor at Murray Bridge Uniting Church, discusses the inspirational way the local community has pulled together to support one another throughout this difficult time.

After destructive fires set upon Rockleigh in late February, I was struck by a strong desire to help but I was unsure of exactly how to do so. The small congregation at Rockleigh Uniting Church had all been touched by the fire in one way or another. Many were involved in the local Country Fire Service (CFS) while some took time to visit or check up on others in the local community. Fortunately, the fire did not damage the properties of any who attend our congregation, but there were still strong feelings of anger, sadness, helplessness and despair present in the aftermath. This was the second major fire in succeeding years.

I approached the Rockleigh congregation about the possibility of holding a service of thanksgiving for the CFS, a service which would also acknowledge the trauma of those impacted by the fires. It was an idea they readily agreed to.

We were overwhelmed by the support received from locals when we began organising this event, which centred on the theme “On the road to recovery.”

Tim Noke, a butcher at nearby Hahndorf, had previously donated 100 sausages and generously increased this amount four times over when he heard our plans. The Women’s Fellowship group from Murray Bridge Uniting Church made sweets to be shared. Graham Boyd and Rollo Hein agreed to let the group use a hangar at a local airfield as the space to hold the event – the fire had come particularly close to this area, making it a poignant spot to reflect on the damage caused by the fires. Volunteers, local businesses and the Monarto Lutheran Church also contributed skills, music, decorations and advice for the special event.

After much planning, approximately 250 locals joined together on the morning of Sunday 30 March. Amongst this number were six CFS appliances with roughly 50 volunteers, the majority of whom had been involved in helping fight the recent fires.

The event included a time of prayer and short messages from a number of guest speakers from organisations such as the CFS, BlazeAid, Natural Resource Management, Primary Producers, Trees Please and the Murray Bridge Council. Each speaker detailed their roles in offering support to the community during the fires and in their aftermath, outlining their services in addition to their hopes and plans for the future. Adrian Petherick, the local member for Hammond, also offered a word of thanks for the efforts made by both individuals and organisations. A candle lighting ritual also formed part of the event, after which attendees were invited to share a few words of encouragement or good news if they felt inspired to do so. The song “You’ll never walk alone” concluded the formalities and provided a significant moment of reflection for the gathered community.

While preparing the shared lunch that was to follow the service, attendees were surprised – and delighted – to see a plane fly low over the hangar; Rollo Hein and his long-time friend, pilot Chris Sperou, had decided to give the visitors a special treat. A delicious meal followed with people sharing their stories of how the bushfires had impacted their lives. Through this fellowship, relationships were formed, strengthened and renewed.

Donations raised at the event were given to BlazeAid to support their work in helping communities after natural disasters. It is hoped that a similar event will be held again next year.

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magazine

What is the Spirit of God doing?

Rev Paul Turley

A cross at the gathering place of the Oodnadatta faith community. Photo courtesy of Timothy Molineux.

In the Uniting Church, I think we respond to our complicated and shifting society, our changing landscape, in two ways.

One response implies that we must be a place of certainty amongst the chaos of change; that our churches ought to be the one place that never changes – a still point where tradition trumps novelty.

The other response is for churches to continually hunt for the next ‘new thing.’

By establishing a new building, program or leader within our existing church structures, we hope to make church more relevant to those who do not attend our Sunday services.

In my opinion, both of these reactions assume the same thing – that we have a solid idea of what the church is and of how we should ‘be church.’ But what if that assumption is incorrect?

Many churches continue to follow the old formulas and traditions of holding a weekly worship service led by a few people from the

front. But how can we be sure that this is the most helpful way of being church in Australia today? It may be, but it may not. We can only know if we move past our assumptions of what we think church is or should be.

According to some sources, John Wesley would ask two questions whenever he visited class meetings. The first of these seems particularly relevant to the Uniting Church as we move forward: what is the Spirit of God doing?

The whole Christian experience is predicated on the story of the work of the Spirit of God in the life of Jesus and his community of followers. Jesus was not just one more travelling rabbi preaching the grand old story; as he travelled, Jesus had a message that God was doing something new and different in that particular time and place, and for all times and places.

This new thing was so all-encompassing that Jesus spoke of it in the biggest terms

possible for his times – he spoke of it as a kingdom. For Jesus and his contemporaries, Rome was quite literally the whole world – physically, economically, politically and culturally. Calling the new work of the Spirit of God ‘the kingdom of God’ exactly captured the world-changing nature of that work.

When we consider our future as church, it is easy for us to get caught up in our past and tradition, in what we feel we should do, in what is popular, what will create the least conflict, what is efficient. But shouldn’t we get caught up in what the Spirit of God is doing?

Perhaps finding the answer to this question is going to require a different way of thinking and talking. I believe it is going to require deep, sustained reflection on our church, our community, our politics and our whole culture. It is a process that might provide us with some surprising, even unsettling, answers – after all, that’s happened before!

Celebrating community CommUnity Day was originally launched as a celebration of the anniversary of the Uniting Church in Australia – 22 June, which falls on a Sunday this month. Earlier this year, the campaign was relaunched as the plural ‘CommUnity Days.’ This enables congregations to register events at any time throughout the year. By registering an event with CommUnity Days, congregations receive promotional support from the Uniting Church SA Communications team.

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Volunteers and events that have made outstanding contributions to CommUnity Days in 2014 will be recognised at the October/ November Presbytery and Synod meeting. Nominations for volunteer awards will open in September. Further information will be made available on the CommUnity Days website (below) and through UC e-news.

To register an event with CommUnity Days, please visit communitydays.org.au

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ministry centres

Resources The May edition of New Times featured brief profiles of the Uniting Church SA Human Resources Management, Information Technology and Telecommunications, and UCInvest departments – all of which form part of the Resources Ministry Centre. In this edition, we conclude our Resources feature by providing details about Financial Services, Insurance and Risk Management, Property Services and, briefly, Uniting Venues.

Financial Services The Financial Services Team is comprised of four smaller teams rolled into one. Each team uses their diverse expertise and knowledge to provide accounting and administrative support to the Presbytery and Synod and to the wider Uniting Church community.

Payroll Bureau Service The Payroll Bureau administers all payroll requirements for the Presbytery and Synod office and for nearly 100 congregations and faith communities of the Presbytery and Synod of South Australia, on a cost recovery basis. The service includes: • calculating and paying stipends, salaries and wages and withholding PAYG tax • producing and distributing payslips and Payment Summaries • calculating and remitting superannuation contributions and WorkCover levies • Helpdesk facilities by email or phone (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm) For more information on Payroll, please call 8236 4241 or email payroll@sa.uca.org.au Congregational Bookkeeping Unit (CBU) As compliance requirements increase, so too does the challenge of finding someone in the congregation to undertake bookkeeping and financial reporting obligations. CBU help a number of congregations and entities with short- and long-term assistance.

This assistance includes: • Bookkeeping Service. A low cost service with specialist bookkeepers using Mind Your Own Business (MYOB), including preparation of regular financial reports and auditing of end of financial year reports.

• MYOB Software – installation and training. Congregations may apply for a copy of MYOB accounting software to administer their congregation’s accounts installed on a churchowned computer.

• General Support. Free support to congregation treasurers in the form of Uniting Church SA website information, quarterly Dollars and Sense newsletters and basic helpdesk support.

• Consultancy Services. For more complex matters, report design, data recovery and re-implementation of MYOB. For more information on CBU, please call 8236 4215 or email cbu@sa.uca.org.au

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Mission and Service Fund To administer the Uniting Church SA $10m annual, a range of other financial services are completed for the Presbytery and Synod. These include: • Accounts payable and receivable, and administration of Ministers’ Fringe Benefit Accounts.

• Budget preparation, board reporting, compliance, Australian Tax Office and statistical returns.

• Financial statements preparation for the Mission and Service Fund and 16 other entities.

• Mission & Service Fund contributions administration.

• Uniting Church Loan Fund and other grant applications.

For more information on the Mission and Service Fund, please call 8236 4200 or email finance@sa.uca.org.au Screening Services Screening processes are an important part of the policies and practices of the Uniting Church SA. The Synod is accredited with and permitted by the CrimTrac agency to access the National Police Checking Service to undertake National Police History Checks of employees and volunteers. Applications are processed securely through the Screening Services unit, who can provide advice on where to find the Instruction and Application Form and how to complete it.

For more information on Screening Services, please call 8236 4282 or email screeningunit@sa.uca.org.au

Uniting Venues SA Uniting Venues SA is comprised of five campsites across South Australia – Victor Harbor (Adare), Halbury (Emmaus), Belair (Nunyara), Robe (Tarooki) and Tumby Bay (Thuruna). Uniting Venues provides camps, conferences and retreats for church, school and community groups, seeking to build communities and memories.

As a mission of the Uniting Church in SA, Uniting Venues aims to provide opportunities for campers and visitors to learn, explore faith, engage in community and develop leadership skills. Uniting Venues seeks to offer exceptional Christian hospitality, genuinely welcoming and caring for people, extending honesty and grace in all their dealings.

For further information about Uniting Venues SA, please visit unitingvenuessa.org.au or call 8278 1883.

ministry centres

Insurance and Risk Management

Property Services

The Insurance and Risk Management department’s primary purpose is to protect people, property and resources against potential risks. Their function is to provide support and advice to congregations to assist in minimising liabilities arising from property loss and the liabilities that arise in a legislatively complex and litigious world.

Some of the services Insurance and Risk Management offer include: • Responding to general enquiries from congregations and other entities in relation to their diverse activities, expanding roles and, in some cases, negotiating an extension of cover with the broker/insurer.

• Arranging for changes in the value of sums insured for church buildings and contents in discussion with congregations and the broker.

• Providing Certificate of Currencies.

• Providing risk management advice to congregations to assist with statutory compliance obligations and regulations, such as Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation.

• Assisting congregations to meet statutory incident reporting obligations.

• Assisting in the interpretation of wording in insurance/legal documents, contracts and other agreements.

• Providing reference materials and resources.

• Negotiating favourable policy terms with our insurers (via the broker), thereby minimising reimbursement costs from congregations for the provision of insurance covers.

• Receiving, managing and processing insurance claims on behalf of congregations and, when necessary, appointing a Loss Adjuster to assess, qualify and quantify damage(s) &/or loss and negotiating favourable claims outcomes with insurers (via the broker).

The new Insurance and Risk Management website is almost ready for launching and, in the meantime, a handbook is available to download from sa.uca.org.au/insurance-and-riskmanagement A team member is available to answer queries Monday to Friday, and can be contacted by phone on 8236 4222 or email on insurance@sa.uca.org.au

What is Property Services?

The Property Services team provides a range of services for Uniting Church congregations and is available to help with all your property questions and needs. Our role is to serve congregations (and the Presbytery and Synod of SA), enabling them to move forward in their mission.

What does the Property Services team do?

We provide advice and process applications for building work (upgrades, alterations and new developments), building compliance, demolition, sale and purchase of property, commercial leasing, residential leasing, licence agreements, heritage listing, structural damage, property sale proceeds management, fencing, signage, land sub division and all other land matters. We also provide information and records concerning current and past properties. Additionally, we advise congregations on how to make the most of church property in a mission context.

How do we view church property?

Although the work of God is not bound to property, the Uniting Church has acquired properties across South Australia over many years. While the Church has bound itself to property, we can ‘be church’ with or without it. As form follows function, property follows mission – mission should be the driving factor for all of our property issues.

Winston Churchill once said, “We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.” Staying with an inadequate (too small, too large or too inflexible) or an historic building should not take priority over reaching the community.

Additionally, property can become a burden to the Christian community and can therefore limit ministry opportunities. In the Property Services team, we view property as simply a means to an end not an end in itself. We view the ‘end’ – the purpose and function – being the proclamation of the gospel. The Uniting Church, and all the church has and holds, exists to serve God. What tips do you have for congregations?

Hiring our church property to another person or organisation requires a Licence Agreement to be in place – both for regular bookings and one-off occasions. This agreement is available as a Word document from Property Services. There is a further Licence Agreement to be used when the ‘user’ is another Uniting Church congregation.

For further information, please visit sa.uca.org.au/property-services or contact the team on 8236 4210 or property@sa.uca.org.au

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g e t t i n g t o k n o w. . .

One Tree Hill Uniting Church In late 1866, the Gawler Wesleyan Circuit applied for permission to build a chapel at One Tree Hill; less than a year later, on 12 August 1867, locals gathered to witness the laying of the foundation stone. In more recent years, this Methodist chapel became One Tree Hill Uniting Church, and remains a strong presence in the local community.

Weekly Sunday services at One Tree Hill are led by a part-time minister and a variety of interesting guest speakers. Five different church groups are responsible for planning these services and selecting prayers, hymns and songs. Approximately 40 to 45 people attend each week and many also take part in Sunday School, Sunday Morning Youth Group, a young adults group and a Wednesday evening Bible study.

Over the years, changes have been made to the church site to accommodate the needs of the groups who meet within it. Renovations

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and additions have been made both inside and outside the church buildings. Working bees are regularly held in order to maintain the heritage church building and the recently established gardens. These events allow time not only to tend to plants or build benches, but also function as social gatherings with food, drink and conversation shared throughout the day. The beautiful site hosts a number of weddings, baptisms and funeral services every year.

Outside of the church grounds, children and youth from One Tree Hill are involved in the KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out) and SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out) events run annually by the Uniting Church in SA. Additionally, the congregation has held Carols in the Garden over the past two years.

The congregation at One Tree Hill is also involved in supporting work in the local

community. Last June, members of the congregation took morning or afternoon tea to five local community service groups as a way of celebrating the anniversary of the Uniting Church. Members frequently volunteer their time with Red Bird Op Shop, catering open garden events at Al-Ru Farm, providing sausage sizzles at Bunnings and running a monthly Adult Fellowship trading table at the One Tree Hill Country Market each month. A monthly nonperishable grocery collection is donated to Uniting Communities in Smithfield, and the congregation also provides financial support to overseas, national and local mission, charities and disaster relief.

Together, the individuals and groups within the One Tree Hill congregation work towards achieving their vision statement to be “people of faith sharing God’s love as we worship and serve in the community.�

g e t t i n g t o k n o w. . .

Para Vista Uniting Church In the 1960s, a temporary church building was erected in Para Vista, which was then a new housing area. A permanent building was later established to host weekly church services and a Sunday School in addition to a community kindergarten.

The friendly, multicultural congregation at Para Vista Uniting Church currently meet for a 10am service each Sunday. Services are led by Rev Tony Goodluck, who is also the minister to Para Vista’s sister church, Modbury Uniting. The congregation, made up of approximately 50-60 people, mostly seniors, are enthusiastic about music and worship. The church choir sings at numerous services each year, at local aged care facilities, and a variety of other venues and events.

Para Vista has a vision of growing a vibrant church, strengthened by loving care, friendliness and acceptance. They feel that they are called to follow the way of Jesus,

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and are committed to living and speaking the good news of God’s love for all people.

These ideals are expressed through the community’s five key practices – passionate worship, radical hospitality, risk-taking mission and service, intentional faith development, and extravagant generosity.

A different team within the congregation is responsible for each of these practices.

The worship team takes care of the practical side of worship services to ensure that all members of Para Vista are able to participate in humble, joyful worship each week.

The hospitality team includes pastoral care, social fellowship, women’s and men’s breakfasts, community lunches, property care and development.

The team responsible for risk-taking mission encompasses the Mainly Music programme, which draws people from

21 different families. This team also coordinates services in three local aged care facilities, regular food collection for UnitingCare, support for World Vision and other missional activities.

Intentional faith development includes adult fellowship, the congregation’s prayer chain, Bible study groups and resources for faith development.

The Spirited Generosity programme falls to the care of the extravagant generosity team who are also responsible for encouraging volunteers, missional support and financial donations for property improvements.

In future, the Para Vista Uniting Church congregation hopes to build on the current projects being undertaken by each of these teams, in addition to providing programmes for young families and participating in more outreach within the local community.

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positions vacant

Searching for a truly meaningful vocation? …

This may be your opportunity!

Coordinator of Studies - Missiology At the Uniting Church Theological College Melbourne The appointee will teach in the field of Missiology, enabling students to explore the theology and practice of Christian mission in the Australian and global contexts.

The appointee will participate in the preparation and formation of candidates for recognised ministries within the Uniting Church in Australia and resource the wider Church in understanding the nature, purpose and practice of Christian mission in the 21st century.

Appointment effective from 1 January 2015 for a period of 7 years.

Closing date: 15 June, 2014 For further information, please contact: David Barmby Administration Manager – Executive Assistant Centre for Theology and Ministry 29 College Crescent PARKVILLE VIC 3052 David.Barmby@ctm.uca.edu.au 03 9340 8832

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Employment in this field of work is ideal for sincerely caring people who strive to serve in a meaningful way, and seek a vocation which is highly rewarding.

You will find this rare vocational opportunity most desirable, fulfilling and spiritually enriching if you aspire engagement in a personal service career in the Funeral Industry.

Your priority duties will be to provide administrative and assistant support to funeral arrangers and directors caring for bereaved families. A range of other general duties are involved, including participation in an after-hours standby roster. Work outside of normal business hours is not uncommon.

You will be, or must become, familiar and genuinely comfortable with working in a faith and ritual rich environment.

In the course of this work, you will have contact with, and handle, deceased persons. Over time, with experience and training, you will develop the capability to arrange and conduct funerals in your own right.

Extensive in-depth industry and in-house training will be provided, with an initial 1 year contract offered.

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Hand written applications will be accepted up to June 30, for interviews and appointment in July.

“Vibrant Community committed to Jesus and passionately engaged in Mission”?

We have a vacancy for a PART TIME ADMINISTRATOR (20 HOURS PER WEEK)

to support the church’s mission, as well as co-ordinate events and manage our volunteers.

3 Year Fixed Term Contract At Burnside City Uniting Church, Tusmore For a position description and person specification, please contact the church office on 8331 3914 or by e mail to admin@burnsidecityuc.org.au.

Applications close on Wednesday June 11th

positionsvacant.sa.uca.org .au diary COMMUNITY EXHIBITION. This is a ‘don’t miss’ exhibition!

The show opened at The Corner Uniting Church on Wednesday 28 May and will run until Friday 27 June, open Tuesday to Fridays, 10am-3pm. Textiles, art, glass, timber work, sculptures, etc. – all with stories to tell! For further information contact Pauline Shinkfield at The Corner on 8350 5400 or at home on 8376 2666.

GARAGE SALE at The Corner Uniting Church (corner Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) on Saturday 21 June, 9am-1pm. Wonderful bargains including homemade cakes, plants, clothing, small furniture items, sausage sizzle, Kids Corner. Cafe open for scones and drinks.

To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary’ in the subject line.

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letters to the editor

Moving back to presbyteries

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Isn’t it time to discuss the proposition that we replace the mission network system with geographical presbyteries?

As I understand it, we are part of the Uniting Church in Australia and, as such, we would benefit from having the same system that other States have – namely geographical presbyteries.

Networks have achieved their objective of avoiding a split over the homosexual debate of years ago. We have also endured the downside of that process with difficulties in settling ministers into churches of ‘like mindedness’ which in itself must be a confusion for interstate ministers wishing to relocate to our fair state!

Churches have changed, people have changed, ideas have changed, and what was a clearer definition of doctrinal positions has become a lesser issue today.

Can a fully accredited Minister of the Word not minister to a congregation of mixed views? If not, there is a deficiency in our qualification.

Is there no place for doctrinal/ethical/social opinions to be discussed in a ‘unity in diversity’ ethos? Where does the phrase ‘all one in Christ Jesus’ fit in the present system?

There needs to be an open discussion about mission networks.

A. Jones and Port Elliot Uniting Church Elders, Port Elliott

Language and leadership

I think P. Turley (in his letter in New Times, May 2014) highlights an important issue for the Uniting Church SA – leadership, and the language we use around leadership, does matter.

8261 8211 All hours

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Some of us understand the title of ‘CEO’ as an endorsement of political power. Some of us would prefer a ‘ministry team’ to a ‘council.’ I believe there is much common ground but the language may be different.

Certainly the actual structures can make a difference. Our aim is to be innovative but our inter-related council structure is likely to stifle innovation. John Wesley is respected as inspirational and innovative.

While he worked with councils, critics say he wielded too much power.

My prayer is that we will participate in Christ’s mission with whatever human structures are most appropriate, and not let language be a barrier.

M.Smith, Modbury Heights

AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

Geoff Lewis General Manager

Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or PO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.

Be topical, be brief, be timely.

Letters over 150 words will be edited; responses to previous letters /articles will be considered within two months of the original item’s publication only.

All letters are published at the editorial team’s discretion.

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21

magazine

Laughter and learning at Hallett Cove Jenny Rossiter

The Monday preceding Easter saw 40 kids flock to Hallett Cove Uniting Church to enjoy a time of Easter fun. As the children entered the church doors, they were quickly engaged in a loud, hilarious balloon game and eggrolling activity, setting the pace for a day filled with fun. Over the course of the morning, children aged between four and 12 would participate in games, activities and learning, all focussed on the Easter message.

An Aladdin’s Cave of crafting fun awaited the children upstairs where tables were set up for craft, cooking and gardening activities.

Children flitted between the stations,

participating in Easter-themed activities such as making palm leaf and pop stick crosses, decorating chocolate boxes and baked biscuits, and making pastry ‘resurrection tombs.’ Baby plants were also potted and ready for the tender care of new gardeners, and many hands contributed to a beautiful paper mosaic.

The children refuelled at morning tea time as they made and ate their own fruit kebabs.

This activity soon turned into a performance

by Johnny and his puppet friend, Peter Rabbit. This segment featured Peter asking questions about Easter with leaders explaining

the story and message in response. As part of this explanation, children were given ‘resurrection eggs,’ which revealed a symbol from the crucifixion of Jesus when they were broken open. Children were also given a set of pictures to sequence and review the story of the first Easter.

This popular event provided an important missional service within the local community, giving children an opportunity to learn more about the true meaning of Easter.

Hallett Cove Uniting Church hope to host a similar children’s program during the Christmas season.

Lord of the dance At dawn on a bright, clear morning, the first ecumenical outdoor Easter Sunday service was held in Port Augusta.

Last year, the Port Augusta Uniting Church held their own outdoor service on the picturesque local foreshore, hoping to be more visible followers of Christ in the community. In 2014, they joined with other local churches to share together in an important celebration of the Easter message.

The service featured a rough cross, draped in linen and set amongst the rocks along the embankment, and provided a focal point for the approximately 120 people present.

Proceedings commenced with a Welcome to Country and opening prayer conducted by Rev Max Wright from the Port Augusta Congress Faith Community. A group of enthusiastic, young, ribbon-waving

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dancers then led the gathering in singing “Lord of the Dance.” A Bible reading and dramatic monologue followed, interspersed with songs, prayers and hymns.

Rev Jonathan Button, minister of Port Augusta and Quorn Uniting Churches, wove his message around the idea of God being the Lord of our dance, and concluded with an invitation for all to join in the dance.

The service closed with poetry and prayer, focussing on those people in countries where war, famine and injustice often prevent people from dancing.

Plans are already under way for next year’s ecumenical, outdoor Easter celebration.

reviews

Gentle spiritual disciplines for a stressed-out world Book: Invitations from God Author: Adele Ahlberg Calhoun Recommended for: those Christians on a journey of transformation using God’s word with spiritual practices and practical engagement with the world In short: This book details 11 invitations God extends to many spiritual practitioners, providing insights to assist Christians in accepting these invitations.

Available from: Koorong stores or koorong.com RRP: $9.99 Adele Ahlberg Calhoun has been a Christian minister for over 30 years and is currently a co-pastor with her husband, Doug. She is a trained spiritual director and a founding member of the Transforming Centre, a community in which she is still involved.

In this book, the author outlines a number of invitations that God extends to all who are open to them. Invitations to rest, wait and weep are included in the book and could challenge the notions of Christians committed to the Protestant work ethic.

Each chapter of the book contains a summary box. These boxes outline an invitation, relevant scripture and potential “road blocks” – the things in us which might derail the process of responding to that invitation. These are followed by possible practices which could be adopted in order to respond positively to God’s invitation.

This appears to be a very practical manual containing many helpful insights, which will assist readers in learning to listen and respond to God’s invitations. In turn, this should lead to wholeness, freedom and transformation.

Jan McClelland

A time to celebrate Christian unity The World Council of Churches (WCC) recently released “The Church: Towards a Common Vision,” their latest Faith and Order document. All WCC churches, including the Uniting Church, are invited to study and formally respond to this document, which has been supplemented with a study guide created by the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly Christian Unity Working Group.

“The Church: Towards a Common Vision” is available from oikoumene.org/en/resources/documents/wcc-commissions The Christian Unity Working Group study guide is available from assembly.uca.org.au/unity/resources

Induction of new Resthaven chaplains Resthaven is delighted to welcome two new Coordinating Chaplains to the expanded team.

On Thursday 20 March, an induction service for Resthaven’s new Coordinating Chaplain at Resthaven Leabrook and Paradise, Rev Cate Baker (top photo, centre), was held at Resthaven Paradise.

Conducted by Rev Philip Gardner, Uniting Church Placements Officer, along with Rev Sandy Boyce, Wendy Morey (Resthaven Executive Manager Workforce Development and Governance) and Robyn Trudinger (Coordinating Chaplain at Resthaven Marion, Malvern and Bellevue Heights).

Attendees included Deaconess Pat Baker, Rev Sue Langhans, Rev Kingsley Congdon and Resthaven Chief Executive Officer Richard Hearn.

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Rev Frances Bartholomeusz (bottom photo, second from left) was inducted in to the role of Coordinating Chaplain at Resthaven Murray Bridge in a service held on Tuesday 8 April. Attendees included Richard Hearn, in addition to Mark Porter, President of the Resthaven Board, and Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer, who performed the induction.

Both ministers had been acting in the position of Coordinating Chaplain for quite some time until their appointment was confirmed recently.

“We are delighted that both Cate and Frances have joined the chaplaincy team,” states Wendy Morey.

“The role of chaplain is an important one.

At Resthaven, we look to support people in all aspects of living – engaging the whole person physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.”

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magazine

Kids born to fly on the Eyre Peninsula The May edition of New Times featured an article about KCO (KUCA [Kids of the Uniting Church in Australia] Camp Out). Off-shoots of KCO are also run at both the Eyre Peninsula, which also uses the name KCO, and at Naracoorte, where the event goes by the name of SEKCO (South East Kids Camp Out). In this edition, Barb Richardson shares the joys of Eyre Peninsula’s 2014 KCO event.

From Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 April, children from across the Eyre Peninsula – from Kimba, Cleve, Lock and beyond – gathered together to celebrate and learn at KCO. We had all the ingredients for a fantastic camp: • Beautiful autumn weather • An amazing beach-side campsite at Thuruna, just south of Tumby Bay • 115 enthusiastic campers from across the Eyre Peninsula • 21 leaders supported by 15 junior leaders, all ready to bless and encourage campers • Delicious, kid-friendly food courtesy of Tim Richardson and his wonderful kitchen staff • A gracious ‘verandah granny,’ Gladys Fleming (pictured bottom row, left), prepared to comfort any camper in need Together with God’s help and guidance, these ingredients led to an amazing camping experience.

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The theme for the Eyre Peninsula KCO in 2014 was “Born to Fly.” Local Sam Telfer, leader of the Xroad Kids Club at Cummins, ably led singing and teaching around this theme.

In his teaching, Sam focussed on the behaviour of eagles when they know a storm is approaching – the way they prepare themselves by flying to a high place and, when the storm arrives, use the strong winds to soar above the turbulence and ride out the bad weather. He encouraged the campers to imitate the eagle when dealing with a problem in their own lives, soaring above the conflict.

Besides the teaching, the children’s days were packed with singing, small group times, outdoor games, crafts and other exciting activities. In keeping with the theme, one of the craft activities involved putting together a kite kit. This popular exercise kept kids focussed on the theme and was a lot of fun, despite all the tangles!

Other highlights included an evening skit from the Port Lincoln team, a night beach walk and a scrumptious pancake breakfast.

As new friendships were made and old ones strengthened over the course of the weekend, it was great to see children forming connections with one another and with God. The messages taught were ones we know the campers will carry forward as they grow in their faith journeys back home. At the end of the weekend, everyone was tired and full of delicious food, but all agreed that it had been an amazing camp.

To find out more about KCO on the Eyre Peninsula and SEKCO in Naracoorte, please visit sa.uca.org.au/kco/kco-events-around-sa To find out more about getting involved in KCO on the Eyre Peninsula, please contact Barb Richardson on 8676 2079 or dbrichos@bigpond.net.au

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