New Times - August 2007

August 2007

Issue 26, Number 7

PP 565 001/00190 ISSN 0726-2612

Young to ‘Immerse’ in mission YOUNG PEOPLE in the Uniting Church are being challenged to sign up for a mission immersion experience next month – on Saturday 15 September.

“We hope participants will spend the day in local UnitingCare agencies or with UCA chaplains who work with marginalised people,” Kate said.

The ‘Immerse’ project has been suggested by Earth project officer Deanna Howland and Westbourne Park youth pastor and ministry candidate Matt Carratt.

“We are looking at ‘small, medium and large challenges’ so that people can choose the level of challenge they feel comfortable with.

Both Deanna and Matt have had mission immersion experiences and believe young Christians will benefit from ‘Immerse’.

Matt believes young people are looking to follow Jesus in practical and radical ways that extend beyond simply attending church.

“This experience will open their eyes to some local opportunities to do so,” he said.

Deanna and Matt are planning ‘Immerse’ in association with UnitingCare and Uniting Church SA Youth Mission planner Ernest Sorensen and Solidarity and Justice officer Kate Tretheway.

Kate said there are several immersion opportunities such as spending the day with a Church agency that supports people suffering from drug or gambling addictions, homelessness, domestic violence or mental illness.

“The aim is to confront young adults with the issues people are facing in our community and to challenge them to make a Christian response.

“Each participant will have a mentor who will help them debrief over a meal at the end of the day.

“Mentors will be available for ongoing reflection with participants, as they work through their experiences.

“This could impact on participants’ career choices, or cause them to volunteer or become politically active.

“We’d like ‘Immerse’ to become a key event for young adults in the church and we also see it as a way of raising awareness about the UCA’s work with poor, vulnerable and marginalised people.”

Interested people should contact Ernest Sorensen on 8236 4261 or email ernest@sa.uca.org.au, or Kate Tretheway on 8236 238 or email kate@sa.uca.org.au.

Earth project officer Deanna Howland and Westbourne Park youth pastor and ministry candidate Matt Carratt were not playing the ‘Pokies’, but merely posing to illustrate one of the mission immersion opportunities for young people next month.

Church in ‘season of opportunity’ Jill Freear

LATEST CENSUS FIGURES showing a decline in UCA affiliation should be regarded as a challenge, rather than viewed with despair, according to Uniting Church SA leaders.

The 2006 Census shows that while the Uniting Church remains the third largest denomination in Australia, the number of people claiming UCA affiliations nationally has declined by nearly 15 percent to 1.1 million in the past decade.

In the past ten years in South Australia the number of people with

UCA affiliations has declined by more than 32,000. Last year ten percent of the SA population (151,553 people) claimed an affiliation.

Uniting Church SA General Secretary Rev Dr Graham Humphris said that while the church is naturally concerned about the decline, it’s not totally unexpected.

He said we need to acknowledge the decline, but focus on the future.

“I think these are absolutely critical times for the Uniting Church and what we do in the next five years will determine if we have a healthy,

hopeful future,” Graham said.

“We are really excited at the possibilities that will emerge from our new Strategic Plan, which focuses on ‘Conversion Growth’ and ‘New Models’.

“We believe this is a season of opportunity. We acknowledge the need to start doing things differently and we look forward to the next ten years where we think there will be significant turnaround and growth in the Uniting Church.”

inside…

Nick moves on

2

Fleet goes green

3

Incredible fundraisers

4

Indigenous child abuse

5

Parkin’s lasting legacy

7

Serving in the world

8

Stillpoint relocates

10

Raronga work party

11

Continued on page 15

Please hand out at your church door

NEWS

2

New Times

Former ‘New Times’ editor Nick Kerr has left the Uniting Church SA after 17 years to work for the Catholic Church.

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ISSN 0726-2612 Acting editor: Jill Freear, Ph 8236 4230, email newtimes@sa.uca.org.au Advertising: Russell Baker, Ph 8361 6822, email ribad@bigpond.com Circulation: Jo Watts, Ph 8236 4260, email jo@sa.uca.org.au Production: Joie Creative Printer: Cadillac Printing Circulation: 12,000

NICHOLAS KERR has moved on after 17 years as the Uniting Church SA’s communications officer and editor of New Times.

Nick, 67, has worked in religious journalism for 46 years. He is studying to be a deacon in the Catholic Church and hopes to be ordained late next year.

The Catholic Church has appointed him to two pastoral placements. He recently became executive officer of the Diocesan Ecumenical and Interfaith Commission. He has just begun working in the Adelaide Cathedral Parish as pastoral coordinator assisting the Sudanese community.

Earlier this year Nick became SA chair of Christian World Service, the National Council of Churches in Australia’s aid and development agency.

He is continuing to study half time at the Adelaide College of Divinity.

Nick worked in Catholic Communications for 25 years – and for a brief period as editor of the ‘Anglican Guardian’ – before coming to ‘New Times’.

“I actually refused an invitation to apply for the Uniting Church position in 1989,” Nick said. “I didn’t think having a Catholic in charge of Uniting Church communications would work.

“When no suitable applicant was found, I agreed to help out part time early in 1990 while the position was readvertised. I hadn’t been in the ‘New Times’ office very long before I realised that, in fact, it would work. So I applied.”

Nick said he had found the church both welcoming and encouraging.

“I’m an ‘ecumaniac’ from way back. The Uniting Church’s dedication to be a ‘uniting’ church had always fascinated me.”

Nick thanked the Uniting Church for the opportunities it has given him.

“This period of my life has given me insights that I’ve found absolutely invaluable,” he said.

“My time with the Uniting Church has helped shaped my new ministry.

“It has developed my understanding of how other churches live their lives, of what great opportunities there are for Christians to work together in so many ways, and of what ecumenism means.

“I’ve always been concerned for Indigenous people and refugees. I’ve found the work the Uniting Church does in these areas inspiring.

“My interest in Sudan and the Sudanese began from stories I wrote for New Times.

“The Uniting Church has been generous in helping to bring refugees to Australia. I’m deeply grateful for that.”

Church aids Gippsland

Distribution: On the first Sunday of the month Editorial deadline for September: 8 August Advertising deadline for September: 10 August

THE UNITING CHURCH has launched an appeal for the residents of Gippsland in Victoria who have been grappling with drought and fires and now flood.

“The people of Gippsland have been doing it tough for a long time now and we are raising money to help for a similar long term recovery,” Kim said.

New Times is published 11 times a year by the Uniting Church SA Communications Unit.

Articles and advertising content do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or of the Uniting Church.

The SHARE Flood Recovery Response appeal will establish immediate housing needs once the water subsides. It will also support children who are returning to school, local community planning, strengthen stressed families and support residents who are suffering depression.

“Residents have experienced an unholy trinity of flood, fire and drought, but whatever the cause we are determined to help families, communities and individuals get back on their feet to face the future with confidence.”

New Times articles and policies are published on the Uniting Church SA website www.sa.uca.org.au.

Office: Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide. GPO Box 2145 Adelaide, SA 5001.

AUGUST 2007

Victorian Synod communications director Rev Kim Cain said appeal funds will provide long-term support.

All donations are tax deductible and will be directed through the UnitingCare agency in the area, Kilmany UnitingCare. Donations can be made toll free on 1800 060 543.

NEWS

New Times

3

Church car fleet turns green THE UNITING CHURCH SA’s car fleet is turning green.

The church is the first fleet customer to sign up for CMI Toyota’s Carbon Neutral Program.

trees to offset the vehicle’s carbon dioxide emissions.

The church’s first carbon neutral vehicle is being leased

by Solidarity and Justice officer Kate Tretheway. Kate is responsible for overseeing the Church’s efforts to be more environmentally aware and reduce its carbon footprint.

CMI Toyota operates the scheme in partnership with the Canopy Project and Greening Australia (SA), who are responsible for planting and maintaining the first CMI forest in the lower MurrayDarling Basin.

“The church is concerned about the state of the planet and about safeguarding the integrity of God’s creation for the sake of future generations,” said Kate.

“Seeking ecological justice is a key element in the Uniting Church SA’s new Strategic Plan – this includes the development of a theological and practical response to environmental issues.

“I’m excited to be the first driver in the fleet to lease a carbon neutral car.

“This is just one example of how we are starting to change our behaviour and practices to reduce our impact on the environment.

“Obviously reducing car use is the most desirable thing – followed by off-setting the impact of carbon dioxide emissions from essential car use.”

Kate will pay approximately $6 a month over three years to off-set emissions from her four cylinder Corolla Ascent.

Uniting Church SA Fleet manager Neil Satterley said by 2010 more than 70 percent of the cars in the Uniting Church SA’s 100-strong fleet will be off-setting carbon dioxide emissions.

“So far CMI Toyota is the only car dealer that offers a carbon neutral option for business car fleets,” said Neil.

“As the Toyotas in our fleet become due for replacement, we will change them for carbon neutral vehicles.”

CMI Toyota Fleet manager Robert Gubbins said a number of the car dealership’s corporate customers are interested in the Carbon Neutral Project – but significantly the Uniting Church SA is the first to sign up.

Under CMI Toyota’s Carbon Neutral Program all new vehicle owners may make a donation for their vehicle to become carbon neutral.

“People are a little suspicious of a car dealership wanting to do something good for the community and the environment – and they’re looking for a catch,” said Robert.

The donation is calculated according to the type of vehicle and the kilometres likely to be travelled. It covers the cost of planting enough

“That’s why it’s great to have the church coming on board – this will be very reassuring for both private and corporate car buyers.”

Uniting Church SA Solidarity and Justice officer Kate Tretheway receives her new ‘carbon neutral’ car from CMI Toyota Fleet manager Robert Gubbins.

UCA leaders lobby on Indigenous issues UNITING CHURCH leaders met recently with Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough and his advisors.

UCA President Rev Gregor Henderson, Assembly General Secretary Rev Terence Corkin, and Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) chairperson Vince Ross discussed a range of issues with the Minister, including the Government policy to end funding for Aboriginal councils that are fully within another council’s boundaries.

The church leaders expressed concerns about the lack of consultation and the general mainstreaming of Indigenous policies.

Rev Terence Corkin said the meeting was positive and that church leaders appreciated the time they were given.

“We had productive discussions around the need for the Government to ensure that services provided to Indigenous communities are culturally appropriate,” he said.

“Community consultation is essential before planning new responses.

“I am confident we will have further opportunities to work with the Minister and communicate the knowledge from the network of Uniting Church services that are on the ground in the affected communities.”

The Uniting Church called for an urgent rethink of Aboriginal policy, including the recent trend toward mainstreaming services, after a church delegation spent three days in Port Augusta late last year.

THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND SYNOD

SYNOD CHAPLAINCY CO-ORDINATOR Applications are invited from interested and qualified persons, ordained or lay members of the Uniting Church, for the position of Synod Chaplaincy Co-ordinator to be based in Brisbane.

The position description and key selection criteria are available from the Acting Synod Chaplaincy Coordinator, Rev Don Whebell, telephone (07) 3377 9822 or e-mail don.whebell@ucaqld.com. au

www.wesleykenttown.com

Applications including a detailed Curriculum Vitae and References, marked “Confidential” should be sent to The Moderator, Uniting Church Queensland Synod, GPO Box 674, BRISBANE QLD 4001 by 31st August 2007.

AUGUST 2007

4

NEWS

‘A new time in ecumenism’ WE’RE AT A NEW time in ecumenism, according to the SA Council of Churches’ new executive officer, Geraldine Hawkes.

Geraldine is the first Catholic to be appointed to the position, and has a wide range of ecumenical experience.

She is also well known in the Uniting Church Presbytery and Synod of SA office – she is staff chaplain.

Geraldine had been acting interim manager of the SACC since February last year.

“We’ve spent a number of years getting to know one another, trust one another, discovering that we can work together,” Geraldine said.

“That’s the first phase.

“The second phase is refining all this, probing more deeply, having deeper conversations, exploring with each other, challenging each other about what more we can do ecumenically.”

Though “people working in ecumenism have become wearied,” Geraldine does not believe the ecumenical movement has run out of steam.

“It’s always about tapping into further energy, where the passion is,” she said.

“People’s energy and passion at the moment seem to be

in developing a deeper sense of belonging to the Christian Church, understanding better our connectedness with one another and exploring our mutual responsibility together as Christians, especially in this multicultural, multi faith context.”

The ecumenical scene is very different from what it was 60 years ago when the Council of Churches started.

“The work of God being fulfilled in visible unity might be long term,” she said, “but people are much more able to celebrate the diversity that’s within themselves, within their church traditions and across the Christian Church. People are naming that as a great abundance, rather than as a hindrance to unity.”

The SACC has been going through a period of discernment, exploring the spirituality of ecumenism.

A draft document setting out the council’s core purpose, aims, priority and action was presented at the SACC general meeting on July 21.

“The time of discernment has allowed people to stop and reflect on the movement of the Holy Spirit in this work.

“At the end of the day, it’s not about us. It’s about the work of God. Taking time to stop, to pray, to reflect and

Geraldine Hawkes is the newly appointed executive officer of the SA Council of Churches. listen to the Spirit has enabled us to hear something new and fresh – and urgent, in some ways.

“Even if people aren’t completely clear on what things might look like, there’s a willingness to remain in the ecumenical boat together.”

Geraldine recently stepped down as executive director of St Paul’s City Ministry, an ecumenical centre that promotes ethical decision making at work.

She is an executive officer of the SA Heads of Christian Churches.

An incredible effort HENLEY FULHAM Uniting Church has raised more than $24,500 in eight months for an overseas mission project.

The funds will help build a medical centre on Numfor Island in West Papua. The project is part of one of the Uniting Church SA’s Lenten Appeal projects.

Minister Malcolm Rawlings said practically everyone in the 200-strong congregation has been involved in some way.

The congregation carried out 26 fundraising projects including a walkathon, concert, hymn singing, garden party and sponsored bike riding.

Peter Hollister, who convened the project coordinating group, said their efforts have impressed Uniting International Mission’s Rev John Barr.

“Apparently our fundraising efforts have been unique. I’m collating information about our approach, to help provide ideas to other churches,” Peter said.

The congregation held a Celebration Service late last month and gave their donation for West Papua to Uniting Church SA International Mission officer Lyn Leane.

They’ll now enjoy a bit of a breather before looking for a new project closer to home.

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AUGUST 2007

NEWS

New Times

5

Government urged to reconsider THE UNITING ABORIGINAL and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) is urging the Australian Government to revise its emergency response reforms to tackle Indigenous child abuse in the Northern Territory.

UAICC national administrator Rev Shayne Blackman said he fully supports Government moves to tackle child abuse, but questions the hasty emergency response approach without negotiation with relevant Indigenous stakeholders.

“The Government’s rapid reform approach needs to be negotiated from the ground up in conjunction with Indigenous community leaders and not just imposed from Canberra,” Shayne said.

From left: Funds from UnitingCare’s Pancake Day have been used to buy fishing gear for Resthaven Murray Bridge clients Warwick Jones and Ricky Rose.

“These hasty reforms are laced with military style coercion. They have not been fully negotiated with Northern Territory communities and do not enable Indigenous

stakeholders to support the reforms in any cohesive fashion.

“While positive intervention is required, we do not welcome this fierce approach by the Government, which further marginalises Indigenous community decision makers and which will create further resentment.

“Every Australian child deserves a secure future free of abuse. If the Government is impartial then the same heavy handed tactics it is employing in Northern Territory Indigenous communities should be applied across every town and city, with abuse perpetrators dealt with under our existing legal framework.

“We are calling upon the Government to enact policy in collaboration with Indigenous leadership, which encourages individual empowerment and ownership.

“In the interests of equality and justice I call upon the Government to reassess its approach.”

Funds for fishing Seek genuine partnerships with Aboriginal people INDIGENOUS PEOPLE who receive assistance from a Community Aged Care Package (CACP) Program are enjoying the benefits of extra funding from UnitingCare’s Pancake Day. The indigenous-specific CACP Program run by Resthaven Murray Bridge and Hills Community Services is one of many local UnitingCare projects to benefit from Pancake Day.

Clients Warwick Jones and Ricky Rose went with their carer to buy fishing equipment and have enjoyed several days out fishing on the Murray River at Murray Bridge.

Cecelia Oxborrow, the Manager of Community Services at Resthaven Murray Bridge, said the extra funding has enabled Resthaven to personalise the program for Warwick and Ricky, who continue to live in their own homes, but receive personal care and assistance.

UnitingCare SA Events officer Ruth Jeffrey said so far, more than $66,000 has been received from this year’s Pancake Day in South Australia. (Last year $56,000 was raised from pancake sales and donations in the State.)

“We’re still receiving funds and will soon have more idea of the local UnitingCare programs that will benefit,” Ruth said.

EARTH, MRN, UC Wesley and Westbourne Park Uniting Church present....

UNITINGCARE WESLEY Adelaide (UCWA) is urging the Federal Government to forge genuine partnerships with Aboriginal people in order to address Aboriginal disadvantage.

The Uniting Church agency has welcomed moves to stamp out sexual abuse in the Northern Territory.

UCWA minister Rev Peter McDonald said prompt action and appropriate levels of funding are important. But he also warns that little of lasting value will be achieved unless governments are genuinely committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal people.

“Meaningful solutions can’t be imposed,” Peter said. “They have to be developed on the

ground, with people who have the expertise and experience.

And that means Aboriginal people.”

UCWA is urging the Federal Government to work closely and cooperatively with a broad range of Aboriginal leaders.

“There is great expertise and insight in the Aboriginal community,” Peter said.

“If the Government is prepared to make a longterm commitment to provide adequate resources and to build partnerships, then abuse and disadvantage can be overcome.

“Separating children from harm is an important and critical first step. The tougher, long-term challenge is to help Aboriginal communities to become stronger, more positive places to live.

“A 20-year vision is needed for Aboriginal communities and a serious funding commitment to make it happen.”

THE UNITING CHURCH Northern Synod is concerned about the removal of the permit system in Aboriginal communities.

While the Northern Synod supports Government moves to stop sexual abuse in remote Indigenous communities, it believes removing the permit system required to enter those communities will worsen the situation.

The Synod fears it will be easier for alcohol, drug and pornography runners to visit Aboriginal communities if entry is uncontrolled.

“For every immersion there is a re-emergence"

rday 15 SeSpatteum 20b0e7r

9am – 9pm Westbourne Park Uniting Church

This new and excitin g initiative for the Uni ting Church in SA pre unique opportunity sents a for senior youth and young adults to exp diverse range of mis lore the sion and out-reach acti vities that are being out in our local com carried munity. Participants will also be encourage at how they will “red to look emerge” and respon d to God’s call through mentorship following their “immersion” exp erience.

Finish AUGUST 2007

6

MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2007

MAGAZINE

New Times

7

Parkin’s Passion – a lasting legacy THE UNITING CHURCH SA is indebted to the generosity of William Parkin – an intensely religious, childless, English draper who immigrated to South Australia in 1839 and ultimately provided a significant legacy to our church.

Parkin had originally intended to make his nephew heir to his Rundle Street property, but decided against it because he did not want his money to be used for “the Devil’s purposes”.

William Parkin’s story is the subject of a new book researched and written by Pilgrim Uniting Church member Brian Jones.

Brian has been involved in administering Parkin’s legacy for nearly 40 years – after becoming a governor of the Parkin Mission in 1968 and serving as president for the past 30 years.

Copies of ‘Parkin’s Passion’ will be given to Uniting Church SA congregations in September to mark the 125th anniversary of the Parkin Mission.

The book provides some fascinating insights into William Parkin’s character – describing him as “a man of means, with forthright views, extremely frugal and convinced of his duty to society and the church”.

In his later years, Parkin was a member of the House of Assembly and the Legislative Council. He carried out his political duties conscientiously and is remembered for his “quaint, humorous, but intelligent addresses, rather than serious oratory”.

Parkin’s gifts

Parkin’s original gifts and legacies to the church amounted to around 40,000 pounds – approximately $4.5m in today’s terms.

He gave about 20,000 pounds to the Parkin Trust, which was established in 1872 to train Congregational ministers.

A further 20,000 pounds (a gift of Rundle Street land) was given to establish the Parkin Congregational Mission in 1882. The Mission supported widows and paid the stipends of Congregational missionaries serving in less settled parts of South Australia.

At the end of last year, the value of the Parkin Trust and Parkin Mission funds amounted to $22.7m (Trust $4.6m and Mission $18.1m).

Parkin appointed governors to control his trusts. Since 1994 the Trust and Mission have had common governors who oversee the funds, which are primarily invested in Australian shares.

This year Parkin’s original gifts will enable a contribution of $1.25 million to be given to the Uniting Church SA (more than 20 per cent of the church’s annual budget).

The Trust is contributing $250,000 to support ParkinWesley College and the Mission is contributing $1m to support chaplaincy and the church’s mission and ministry in remote areas of South Australia.

Give thanks to God

Pilgrim UC member Brian Jones first became interested

Parkin Mission president and Pilgrim Uniting Church member Brian Jones outside the Plympton North house which was William Parkin’s last home. in William Parkin more than 60 years ago through reading Congregational Church year books.

He has found Parkin’s life and significant gifts fascinating and inspiring.

“By being frugal and very conscious of where his money went, Parkin tried to channel all his resources into the things that were dear to his heart,” Brian said.

“I hope church people will read ‘Parkin’s Passion’ and be inspired to leave a lasting legacy – either big or small – to the church.”

Brian has been inspired to establish a music fund that will maintain the musical aspects of worship at Pilgrim Uniting Church after his death.

Brian Jones will lead a guided tour of the West Terrace Cemetery next month to visit William Parkin’s final resting place.

Church members interested in making a donation or a bequest to the church may do so through the Uniting Foundation and may discuss this with deputy property manager Lynne Aird.

Anniversary celebrations

Various events are planned next month to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Parkin Mission.

On Saturday 15 September there will be a tour of the West Terrace Cemetery where

Parkin was buried in 1889.

‘Parkin’s Passion’ will be launched at Pilgrim Church where Parkin was a member until 1873. The book will be launched on Sunday 16 September, following a celebratory service at 11am.

Another commemorative service will be held at St Andrews by the Sea (where Parkin last attended church) on Sunday 23 September.

For further information contact Joan Blanchard on 8236 4217.

Copies of ‘Parkin’s Passion’ - which tell the story of church benefactor William Parkin - will be sent to local congregations next month to mark the 125th anniversary of the Parkin Mission.

AUGUST 2007

8

MAGAZINE

New Times

Serving in the world “BUT DO I need a travel iron?”

Believe it or not that’s one of the many questions pondered by Uniting Church people about to volunteer for service overseas.

Fortunately the answer to this question, and to many others relating to cross-cultural mission, are provided during the two week “People in Mission” pre-service training program.

The Assembly program for volunteers in mission throughout Australia has been running twice a year for the past decade in Adelaide, but is about to be relocated to Sydney.

With Sandy Boyce having concluded her work as the Assembly People In Mission co-ordinator, responsibility for the last Adelaidebased program rests with SA Presbytery and Synod International Mission officers Lyn Leane and John Minchin.

Last month eight participants, including two South Australians, experienced pre-service training.

Local participants Ruth Sellick from Western Link

UC and Daryl Burford from Balaklava UC both hope to serve in Papua New Guinea.

Uniting Church SA International Mission officer Lyn Leane said the preservice training has two main goals.

“There are sessions aimed at personal development and growth to help participants cope with everything that will assault them in a new culture,” Lyn said. “Then we provide them with ways of unpacking that culture.

“We use the ‘Myers Briggs’ temperament indicator to help people understand and accept the differences between themselves and others.

“We then cover issues relating to spirituality, the history and theology of mission, cultural awareness, re-entry, health Ruth Sellick from Western Link UC and Daryl Burford from Balaklava Uniting Church hope to serve as and travel, boundaries, power volunteers in mission in Papua New Guinea. and gender.

“Participants also spend months to a year. to explore dimensions of Philippines, Papua New a weekend living with a Christian discipleship overseas. Guinea, West Papua and “Volunteers in mission household from a culture “They then have to usually pay their own travel South Korea. similar to where they are be endorsed by their and living expenses, but Anyone interested in going, to experience a brief congregation, before being accommodation is often serving overseas may ‘cultural immersion’. interviewed by Assembly, provided by the host church contact Lyn Leane on 8236 under-going a police check overseas.

“We’re always looking for 4239 or email lyn@sa.uca. and pre-service training.” new people who are interested “There are quite a few steps org.au; or John Minchin The Uniting Church SA in the process. It’s important in mission exposure trips or on 8236 4203 or email has international church that there is a strong sense serving in actual placements, johnm@sa.uca.org.au. partnerships in Thailand, the of being drawn by God usually for periods from three

Abrupt end to mission

UCA assisted volunteers in mission Bev and Trevor Watson were evacuated from Jaffna, Sri Lanka, late last year because of civil war.

AUGUST 2007

NOBODY KNOWS quite like former UCA assisted volunteers in mission Trevor and Bev Watson just how things can go wrong in international mission. Late last year the couple were evacuated from Sri Lanka because of an escalation in the civil war in the north.

At the time Trevor and Bev were three and a half years into a five year placement in the McLeod Hospital compound – part of the Jaffna Diocese of the Church of South India.

Bev, a nurse, had been in charge of the tsunami relief efforts in the Diocese, where two and a half million people were displaced.

Trevor, a farmer, worked at an agricultural college and also in the hospital grounds.

Bev describes their unceremonious departure as a wrench; her biggest concern her inability to finish renovating the 100 year old hospital.

The couple were evacuated by boat in September after finally accepting that the escalating war between government forces and the Tamil Tigers was not going to subside.

“We were playing cards one night when suddenly we heard guns firing and shells whistling over the top of our house,” said Bev. “On a couple of occasions we laid on the floor when there was firing – it was that close.

“There was bombing every night – we didn’t know whether to take our clothes off and go to bed or sleep fully dressed and ready to evacuate.”

They were evacuated by ship after a “last chance call” from the Australian High Commission.

Bev and Trevor recently volunteered as chaplains to participants in the “People in Mission” program.

MAGAZINE

New Times

9

‘Last Australian missionaries’ return to New Ireland REV DOUG and Jennie Hosking recently returned to New Ireland, Papua New Guinea, 31 years after they last lived there as Uniting Church missionaries.

The couple originally went to Papua New Guinea for a six year placement, which became nine years and then stretched out for a further two years, including 5 years at Kavieng on New Ireland.

This time Doug and Jennie’s mission was to deliver Uniting Church SA Lenten Appeal Funds for a new ambulance for the Kimadan Rural Health Centre.

While Jennie and Doug don’t quite admit to being treated like royalty, they were warmly welcomed and humbled to hear how they were remembered as the “last Australian missionaries on New Ireland”.

Doug said there was a great celebration with choirs and speeches on the day the Lenten Appeal cheque for 107,000 Kina was handed over – (the exact cost of the new ambulance being

imported from Japan).

The funds have arrived in the nick of time, as the back doors of the health centre’s ten-year-old ambulance fell off recently while transporting a patient.

Jennie also presented bandages and dressings to the Kimadan Health Centre.

Doug and Jennie were overwhelmed with the love of the people and the gifts presented to them during their week-long visit.

(A painting, carving, billums, leis and bags were received at different places).

Doug was expected to preach in several places and was pleased to meet a number of former colleagues, but was also sad to hear how many had passed away.

“It’s been very hard to stay in contact over the past 31 years because of the difficulties of communicating in PNG,” said Doug.

“Because of the minimal contact people sadly felt they had been ‘let go’ by the Australian church.”

Rev Doug Hosking was warmly welcomed by former ministry colleague Rev Ben Lenturut on New Ireland, PNG.

Despite this he said the United Church on New Ireland appears to be enthusiastic and strong and church leaders are looking forward to an increased partnership between

Australia and PNG. (Doug and Jennie visited New Ireland after spending two weeks as part of the work party repairing Rarongo Theological College).

Zimbabwe mission IMAGINE LIVING in a country where a loaf of bread costs more than $22,000 and a pair of reading glasses could set you back as much as $2 million – and your monthly income is no more than $500,000.

Such is the case in Zimbabwe where hyperinflation is causing extreme poverty for many families and schools, and hospitals and orphanages have limited supplies.

Verdun Uniting Church member and lay preacher Philippa Goodbourn has just returned from her second mercy dash to Zimbabwe and is shocked by the worsening conditions.

struggle with limited electricity and water supplies.

“Wages are not increasing to match costs,” she said. “The average wage is between $400,000 and $500,000 Zimbabwean a month and many people spend $2,000 a day on bus fares to and from work.

“Last October a loaf of bread cost $2,000. When I first arrived in May a loaf cost $10,000 – three weeks later the cost had increased to $22,000.”

Verdun and St Stephens Uniting Church have been supporting people in Zimbabwe after learning first-hand about their plight from Philippa.

She first visited last October with the Aldgate Church of Christ and returned in May with a Christ of Christ group from New Zealand.

Verdun UC sends wool, fabric and crotchet cotton to help Zimbabwean women make clothing for their families and to generate income.

Her second trip followed the Australian government’s unprecedented ban against the Australian Cricket Team’s proposed tour of Zimbabwe next month.

Philippa has also delivered stationery for school children, clothes, medical supplies and reading glasses.

Under President Robert Mugabe’s autocratic regime there are oppressive social and economic conditions and human rights violations.

“I took 60 pairs of reading glasses that cost about $5 in Australia.

These were all gone within ten days, enabling the recipients to work again and continue their education.

Philippa said daily life is a

“Despite their desperate

Verdun Uniting Church member Philippa Goodbourn during her recent mercy mission to Zimbabwe.

circumstances the people are engaging and hospitable. They have a faith that exudes joy.”

Philippa hopes to visit Zimbabwe again next year, possibly with other members from Verdun Uniting Church.

In the meantime she is happy to talk to church groups about her experience and to receive donations to support various Zimbabwean projects. She can be contacted on 8388 0163 or email philntrev@esc.net.au.

AUGUST 2007

10

MAGAZINE

New Times

Finding the still points of life Ann Siddall LIFE GETS busy and the “still points” elude us. Yet most of us have discovered that it is in the still points of life that we begin to see and hear more clearly, re-connect with the Christ whom we serve and find our energies and inspiration renewed. At the new Stillpoint Spirituality Centre we invite you to step aside from the busyness for a while and listen – to the kookaburras, to the wind in the trees and to the still, small voice of the Spirit.

Stillpoint is a Mission Resourcing Network Centre and it has recently moved from Adelaide West Uniting Church to the Nunyara Conference Centre at Belair. This is enabling us to expand what we offer to the church and share the hospitality and ambience of Nunyara, which means “place of healing”.

Essentially Stillpoint is a house, where you may book a room (with material and spiritual direction if you wish) for a day or half day of time out. You may bring your

church council or group for a time of reflection and planning, come to one of our events, or talk to a spiritual director.

Residential retreats are also possible.

Resources and leadership for congregations is still part of our core work, and in recent weeks visits have been made to Morialta Uniting Church and Southern Yorke Peninsula congregations. Prayer for the church is also taken seriously and prayer requests may be sent to us.

There is some mutual enrichment going on between the Centre and the Stillpoint Faith Community (led by Rev Gary Stuckey), which meets in the Nunyara Chapel for fortnightly contemplative worship services.

Seed funding from the Uniting Foundation has helped us establish Stillpoint and to appoint ministry student Sarah Agnew as our part-time office manager. However, Stillpoint is a step in faith and we need to charge for some services.

We have launched a “Friends

From left, Sarah Agnew and Ann Siddall have created a calm and tranquil environment for spiritual questing at the Stillpoint Spirituality Centre, which has been relocated at the Nunyara Conference Centre, Belair. of the Centre” scheme, and for $250 a year people receive a 50 per cent discount on events (other than residential), use of a quiet room up to six times a year and a package of

resource material for personal spirituality.

Leaflets outlining Stillpoint’s 2007 program have been sent to local congregations.

The Stillpoint Spirituality

Centre may be contacted on 8178 0048 or by emailing stillpoint@internode.on.net.

• Ann Siddall is director of the Stillpoint Spirituality Centre.

World Youth Day symbols arrive

The World Youth Day theme song ‘Receive the Power’ was launched in Sydney last month by singers Guy Sebastian and Paulini, to coincide with the arrival of the WYD Cross and Icon.

THE SYMBOLS of the world’s largest youth event – the World Youth Day Cross and Icon have arrived in Australia.

The 3.8 metre high Cross and accompanying Icon – a portrait of Mary and the Child Jesus – were officially welcomed in Sydney last month by politicians, youth, clergy and laity.

The Cross and Icon will travel around Australia on a 12-month pilgrimage to more than 400 communities in the lead up to the World Youth Day event in Sydney next July.

“The World Youth Day Cross has travelled on the shoulders of young people all over the world for more than 20 years, bringing the message of hope, peace and Christ’s love for humanity,” said Archbishop Philip Wilson, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops 60x48mm Advert Conference.

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“These inspiring symbols will travel throughout this country, touching the lives of many young Australians on their way,” he said.

The Cross and Icon will be in Adelaide from November 7 to 16.Young people from all denominations have been invited to help carry the giant Cross and Icon through Adelaide and various parts of South Australia.

An indigenous Message Stick will accompany the Cross and Icon as an invitation to Indigenous youth to attend WYD. Around 500,000 people are expected to take part when Sydney hosts the XXIII World Youth Day from 15–20 July 2008. The event will also mark the first visit to Australia by Pope Benedict XVI. A full itinerary of the Journey of the Cross and Icon can be found at www.wyd2008. org.

MAGAZINE

New Times

Church planting isn’t new Rev Ted Curnow, Meadows

THERE WAS an unobtrusive gathering of people under the pine tree at the Old Burton Pioneer Cemetery on Bolivar Road, Paralowie, recently.

About 20 people gathered for an excursion organised by the Uniting Church Historical Society to tour the early southern Chapel sites on the Gawler Plains.

While members of the Society shared stories and features of each site, the exercise was hardly a retreat into the past.

After visiting five locations it was impossible to escape an awareness of the vision of our early missionaries addressing us in the present.

Other churches venerate their Saints; they reverence them as examples of those who have faithfully run the race before us. It could be said that we need to rediscover our remarkable heritage in the same way, so that we allow it to speak to us and keep us on course.

At the old Burton site we were reminded that F W Bourne described the Gawler Plains area as a place of “almost continuous revival,” while the late Len Roberts wrote that it was a “Methodist nursery for areas further north”.

The story of the spread of Primitive Methodism across the Plains and the fiery preacher Rev J G Wright can be found in a book called Pioneering Para

11

Completing the job

Plains, with a forward by Max Fatchen.

Gayle Brown shared the story of the tiny Sturton Chapel now on Defence Department property at Penfield. It was first built as a private Chapel in 1856 by the Jefferies family. By coincidence our visit coincided with the Chapel being used for a wedding by a descendant of this original family.

With a flutter of maps Zoar Cemetery, north of Elizabeth was next. Val Canty described the thriving Bible Christian Chapel in its heyday and we discovered the headstone of Catherine, the wife of Rev James Way, before leaving for Ebenezeer. This small Angle Vale Chapel was the mission base for the Bible Christians.

Church planting was rife in the early 1850s, and Rev Samuel Keen planted 15 congregations and built 12 Chapels over a seven year period.

Jim Everett walked us through the headstones and then the party headed for Carclew, a Cornish enclave near the Gawler River.

Rev Kevin Secomb shared the story, and to everyone’s surprise the old Chapel that was a squat for pigeons had been privately acquired and beautifully restored. We can only conclude that these outposts of yesterday still represent the powerful vision of our pioneer forefathers as they claimed the new colony for the Glory of God.

Sturton Primitive Methodist Chapel at Penfield.

Some of the children of the theological students studying at Rarongo Theological College in Papua New Guinea.

NINETEEN SOUTH Australians (mainly UCA members) travelled to Papua New Guinea in May to help complete repairs to Rarongo Theological College on the island of New Britain.

It was the second trip to Rarongo for SA work party team leader Phil Tregenza from Rosefield Uniting Church. He was also involved in a church work party in 2005.

Phil’s building and joinery skills and the assorted skills of several other volunteers have helped restore Rarongo, which is the national Theological College for the United Church in PNG. The college was built in the 1960s, but had fallen into disrepair – affected by high humidity and salty air. It was also damaged by the 1994 Vulcan volcano eruption.

The majority of the repairs have been financed through a Uniting International Mission appeal across Australia.

SA members on this last church work party were pleased to essentially complete the project.

Phil said while members struggled with high humidity and the need to constantly stay hydrated, they were well rewarded for their efforts.

“It was great to just go in and do it; in those two weeks, building on the work of earlier volunteers, we were able to make a real difference,” he said.

“We spent most of our time on a new assembly building, the library, an administration area and the medical clinic.

“It was so rewarding to see college students and their families using and enjoying the new facilities.

“With a new principal and new students, the

college has a new energy now.”

Rev Doug and Jennie Hosking from Morialta Uniting Church were also part of the work group.

Jennie describes it as a great experience – a time of renewing friendships and helping to make Raronga a better learning and living environment for students and staff.

“We worked hard for two weeks in high humidity and enjoyed the cold showers,” she said. “We also ate a healthy diet which consisted mainly of rice, sweet potato, greens with chicken, fish and fruit.

“A typical day for workers involved getting up at 6am, joining theological students for devotions at 6.45am and starting work at 7.30am.

“We painted, cleaned, sanded and carried out construction work – building cupboards from scratch and re-cladding buildings.”

For work party member Judi Jones from Golden Grove Uniting Church, arriving back in Port Moresby after 29 years was just like returning from a long holiday.

Judi lived and worked in Rabal for 11 years and the trip brought back many memories of the year she worked at Rarongo College as the secretary. She was also married at the college.

“I was really thrilled to be part of the work party and would like to return again to help the community in some other way,” she said.

“It was fantastic to feel the hope and vitality at Rarongo once we had completed the renovations.”

To advertise in New Times: Contact Russell Baker phone 8361 6822 fax 8361 6833 email ribad@bigpond.com

AUGUST 2007

12

NEWS

New Times

New CEO at UCW Bowden UNITINGCARE WESLEY Bowden has a new chief executive. Julian Sawicki took over the role early last month from Lin Green.

Lin has retired after 20 months at Bowden and 15 years before that as a senior manager at UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide.

Julian, an Adelaide University graduate, has worked for the past three years as the director of Corporate Services at Novita Children’s Services.

He is pleased to be joining another organisation that provides services to the community.

“I look forward to building upon the strong foundation established by Lin and working to improve and broaden the range of services.

“I’m also looking forward to providing strategic leadership which will be needed to face

the challenging environment of the future.”

Julian will be focusing on revenue growth and then corporate governance and risk management issues.

“I’m excited about the broad spectrum of Bowden’s operations and the opportunity to work with a team of dedicated staff.”

UnitingCare Wesley Bowden has an annual operating budget of $15 million and approximately 300 staff. It provides child and family services, counselling, ageing and community care and respite services.

Meanwhile, Lin Green is looking forward to a change of pace after a challenging period strengthening UCWB. He will continue to race in triathlons and will move with wife Lyn to the Adelaide Hills where they plan to expand their Alpaca breeding program.

Wallaroo celebrates Rev Jan Greig WALLAROO UNITING Church had a double celebration on Sunday 24 June – marking both the UCA’s 30th Birthday and the dedication of a new outdoor area.

With funding from UC Invest, a pergola was built by Rod Plumb and a fence by David Greig and Jim Kennedy.

Gates were donated, making the area safe for children. Outdoor chairs have been ordered and tables with plank seats were in place on the day.

After thanking those involved, Rev Jan Greig dedicated the area and Rod Plumb cut the ribbon and declared the area open.

After church a birthday cake (made by Wendy Bennetts) was cut and the candles lit by Kevin and Margaret Thomas.

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UnitingCare Wesley Bowden’s new chief executive Julian Sawicki taking time out to congratulate Ashman Grove Aged Care resident Beth Ablett who turned 100 earlier this year.

Church condemns visa cancellation UNITINGJUSTICE has criticised the Federal Government’s intervention in the case of terror suspect Dr Mohamed Haneef – the Gold Coastbased doctor with alleged links to car bomb attacks in the UK. Dr Haneef has been charged with “recklessly’’ supporting a terrorist organisation.

Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews has revoked Dr Haneef’s visa after the Courts granted him bail. He is now in immigration custody and faces deportation.

UnitingJustice believes the Howard Government is using the Migration Act to

undermine the Legal System. Director Rev Elenie Poulos said it is hard to believe the action was not related to the Court granting bail.

“A person’s guilt or innocence is a matter for the Courts not the Immigration Minister,” Elenie said.

“It is naïve to believe that this action will not prejudice Dr Haneef’s right to a fair trial. It looks as though the Government has convicted him, even though the law has not.”

“We are also concerned about his detention in Villawood, far from his legal team in Brisbane.

The Government appears to be making it difficult for Dr Haneef to access the legal support he is entitled to.”

M A G A Z I N E

New Times

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Kids’ Club serves community Pilgrim celebrates PILGRIM CHURCH celebrated its 170th anniversary in June with guest speaker UCA president Rev Gregor Henderson and music from internationally acclaimed organist Simon Preston.

Pilgrim Church, on Flinders Street, is one of the city’s landmark churches. Originally called Stow Memorial Congregational Church, it was used from 1867 by the Congregationalists.

In 1969 Stow Memorial formed a united parish with Pirie Street Methodist Church in anticipation of the formation of the Uniting Church in Australia. At Church Union the congregation adopted the name Pilgrim Church.

Malvern Uniting Church Kids Club leaders (top, left to right) Benji Callen and Mark Fitzgerald, (bottom) Annabel Krantz and Lauren Galloway.

EXCITED VOICES and thundering footsteps rang through Malvern Uniting Church during the first week of the July school holidays. The regular school holiday Kids’ Club was on again, with up to 80 children aged from seven to 12.

For five days, kids and leaders came together to learn about God and Christian faith, to have fun and meet new friends.

The theme was ‘Strength in God’. Through watching a strong man tow the minister’s car and listening to Irish evangelist Julian (Jools) Hamilton, along with a healthy dose of veggies (actually Veggie Tale cartoons), the kids learnt to trust in God’s strength, not just human strength.

Malvern UC youth pastor Benji Callen believes Kids’ Club is a great way for the church to be involved in the community.

“Firstly, Kids’ Club provides a service to the community,” Benji said. “We have kids from single parent families, or kids from families where both parents are working, or from families

in crisis, looking for a holiday activity for their children.

“Kids Club brings new people into the church. Probably about 10 to 20 percent of the children are from our church family, but the rest either don’t go to church at all, or attend other churches.

Kids Club also helps to develop leadership skills through Malvern’s ‘Junior Leader’ program.

“It’s a great training ground,” Benji said. “I’ve discovered that it’s easier to develop young leaders when there’s a cause or a specific task. Most of them get behind Kids’ Club, so in terms of leadership development, it’s a great thing.”

Kids’ Club volunteers Lauren Galloway, Annabel Krantz and Mark Fitzgerald all went to Kids’ Club as children and now enjoy leading Kids’ Club activities.

Lauren said Kids’ Club provided her and Annabel with their first experience of church and Christian faith. “If it wasn’t for Kids Club, we wouldn’t be here,” she said.

Annabel added, “we could go ice-skating and swimming and bowling instead of just sitting around watching TV. We hadn’t been to church before and we thought it was interesting.”

Mark attended Kids’ Club with school friends. “It was almost like another week of school, but without work,” he said. “It was a chance to have fun and hang out with friends more.”

All three enjoy sharing their faith and experiences with Kids’ Club participants.

“I enjoy watching the kids grow taller, and also grow spiritually,” Lauren said.

- Keren DeBoo

UCA president Rev Gregor Henderson and Pilgrim Church minister Rev Dr Jenny Byrnes celebrating 170 years of Congregational and Methodist ministry at Pilgrim in June.

AUGUST 2007

MAGAZINE

New Times

STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP will be held on Tuesday 28 August at 10.30am at Scots Church, North Terrace. Program, “Congregational responses to Uniting International Mission Projects”. Lunch $2:50 available at 12 noon. Enquiries to Joy Dunning on 8295 7745.

of the Trinity, 318 Goodwood Road, Clarence Park, at 12 noon for 12.30pm. Bring a plate to share. Theme: ‘Think Pink’, an opportunity to donate to breast cancer research. Enquiries to Lesley Catford 8332 9796, Helen Blanksby 8351 5770 or Elizabeth Trigg 8332 9297.

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THE EFFECTIVE Living Centre presents a lecture on the question of values in Australian society titled “Living with difference - the Australian Story”

by Professor John Hirst from La Trobe University. Oration at 7.45pm on 11 August at 26 King William Road, Wayville. Tickets $25 or $20 concession. Bookings essential. Phone/Fax 8271 0329.

For more Uniting Church events, visit Uniting Church online www.sa.uca. org.au and click on “What’s On”. There is an online form which you can fill out to contribute notices to Notebook.

16 to 19 August. Visit www. commondreams.org.au or call (02) 9267 3614 (Pitt Street Uniting Church, Sydney).

A PROGRESSIVE CONFERENCE with Bishop John Shelby Spong and six other international speakers will be held in Sydney from

HEAR BISHOP Spong: “Jesus for the Non-Religious”, at 7.30pm, Friday 24 August at Kent Town Uniting Church, (entry $20/$18). Or “How to Read the Bible without being a Literalist”, on Sunday August 26, 2.30pm at Clayton Wesley Uniting Church, Norwood, (entry $25/$20). Both events: $38/28. Bookings ELC, ph 8271 0329, email office@ effectiveliving.org.

ACC (SA) TOUR In one week, ACC president Rev Dr Max Champion spoke to 340 people in 16 centres across South Australia. The tour took him from Eyre Peninsular to the South East spending the weekend in Adelaide. People from over 40 congregations gathered to hear about the ACC and its positive program for the future.

The ACC is committed to assisting believers live out a vibrant evangelical, reformed

and orthodox faith within the UCA. Central to this is the need to confess Christ crucified as our hope and salvation.

Max explained the strategic role of the six national Commissions which have the responsibility of giving practical resources to members. He also announced the imminent release of an ACC flagship publication called the ‘ACCatalyst’ – a quarterly magazine which will be sent to every ACC congregation and individual member.

There are 44 congregations in the ACC SA movement and 123 nationally.

Rev Dr Phil Marshall Tea Tree Gully

AUGUST 2007

THE PINAROO Uniting Church Women’s Fellowship is celebrating their 90th Birthday with a special program on Thursday 9 August, at 2pm in the Church hall. All past and present members and wives of former ministers are welcome.

Memorabilia also welcome.

Enquires to Janet Summerton on 8577 8037 or Enid Wurfel on 857 78115.

AN ART display in the Uniting Church SA foyer showcases the works of local artists, Margie Goodluck and Matthew Stuart until the end of August. Art work may be purchased or ordered.

DECLINING NUMBERS The latest census figures indicate a significant drop in UCA membership. The reasons may be many and difficult to analyse. One reason may well be that former members have objected to a church that has abandoned the belief that the scriptures are a source of authority. While groups promote the teaching of Spong and others, challenging the truth, on what basis would believers hold faith in the theology of the UCA? Ross Lee Moonta

THE SA CHRISTIAN Meditation Community invites young adults (19-38) to a spirituality day on Saturday 25 August with Rev David Kowalick, Steven Ogden and Father Tom Gleeson. In the Cynthia Poulton Hall, St Peter’s Cathedral, King William Road, North Adelaide from 10am to 4pm. Lunch provided. No booking required. Cost $10.

Enquiries to Barbara O’Halloran on 8296 1179.

THE PARTNERS of ministers’ annual luncheon will be held on 16 November at the Church

A GREAT NIGHT “For Those Who Have Ears” will be held on Saturday 11 August at 7.30pm in Concordia College Chapel, 45 Cheltenham Street, Highgate. This Scripture Union fundraising event features international tenor, Bernard Hull and a range of accomplished Adelaide artists, with musical styles ranging from classical to jazz to contemporary musicals.

Tickets from $20. Enquiries to 8371 0811.

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BISHOP SPONG Eminent theologians have referred to Bishop Spong’s views as heretical and their reasons are soundly based.

There is nothing to commend this apparent Gnostic philosopher to the UCA. To do so compromises the Creeds that under-gird our ‘one holy, catholic, and apostolic church’.

Our Ordination vows include the requirement to teach from the Creeds. Spong’s writings show he does not believe in the virgin birth, the atonement on the Cross, the resurrection, or the ascension of Christ.

Spong is not alone in his non-orthodox views. During a compulsory course on the Apostles Creed at Theological Hall my professor laughed and said in ‘the olden days’ he’d have been burned at the stake for his beliefs. Perhaps the Assembly’s Doctrine Working Group should critique Spong.

Maybe there’s even a need to review the Ordination vows and ministerial requirements.

The vows I made before God no longer appear applicable if the UCA in any way affirms the Gnostic heresies that Spong espouses.

Rev Rob Tann Port Lincoln

CHRIST IN ZAMBIA Having just returned from Zambia, Africa, where I and others worked on projects to support AIDS orphans I was pleased to read in New Times about the 28 candidates studying for ministry at our theological college.

During my trip I experienced the Zambian Christians’ total dedication to the work of God. These people live in mud huts, some have HIV/AIDS, yet their belief in Christ is strong and they were willing to share it.

Could I be bold enough to suggest our theological college should include a trip to Mwandi, Zambia in our ministers’ training program? It would be a rewarding experience for both sides.

The article about Bishop Spong caused me to ask if I had found a different God in Africa -that cared and carried out Christian works - the true message from our Bible.

The sands of Zambia are a place where you do find Christ.

Robin Dixon-Thompson Port Lincoln

M A G A Z I N E

New Times

15

NCLS hands key to churches Local churches can now interact directly with the largest database on church life in Australia.

Any church can access its own unique resources and information on the National Church Life Survey (NCLS) website – www.ncls.org.au.

Newly appointed NCLS Research director Dr Ruth Powell said churches may access a wealth of information simply by using an “NCLS Admin Key”.

As well as viewing results for a congregation’s ‘Church Life Profile’, the Admin Key will unlock the new ‘Extended Profile’, which includes every answer to every question in the core survey form for each church.

“In future, churches will also be able to make their own ‘Customised Profiles’ online,” Ruth said.

“We’re excited by this new option which will help churches hear the voices of their attendees and focus more effectively on their mission goals.”

“Churches may use the ‘Admin Key’ to compare the views of people in different age groups, or the views of those attending different worship services, and more.”

Congregations may also publicise their activities and services on the NCLS website.

“Church Search is a free internet service to help people find churches,” said Ruth.

“Churches can use their Admin Key to ensure their details are complete and correct.”

Any church that took part in the 2006 National Church Life Survey will already have their Admin Key. It is a 12 digit key printed on the cover letter and inside front cover of Church Life Packs.

Other churches may contact the NCLS Research office to obtain their Admin Key – phone 02 8267 4394 or email info@ncls.org.au.

Dialogue builds bridges IN 2002 Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer approached the Indonesian Government with a proposal to begin an interfaith dialogue, with the aim of building a culture of cooperation to ensure peace in the region.

The initiative was a direct response to the Bali bombings and the ongoing terrorist threat.

The dialogue has now broadened to 15 countries, with each country sending ten delegates – faith leaders and politicians.

The result of each dialogue is a ‘declaration’ proposing an action plan for delegates to promote an inter-faith agenda in their respective countries.

Uniting Church delegate Rev Seforosa Carroll, who convenes the Assembly working group on Relations with Other Faiths, describes the declarations as “links” that build on each other.

“New Zealand consolidated the previous two declarations and moved things forward,” she said, speaking of the Waitangi Declaration that emerged from the third interfaith dialogue held in May in New Zealand.

The focus of the recent declaration is on the

role of public education, religious education, and the media.

It also focused on strengthening the relationship between governments and faith leaders around interfaith issues, creating exchanges and networks between youth, students, teachers, religious leaders and academics, the establishment of a regional database of interfaith activities and the introduction of an interfaith curriculum in schools.

It also advocated an increase in media coverage of interfaith relations to help people understand different religions and their unified aims.

Rev Seforosa Carroll said the dialogue aims at social cohesion.

“The hope is that if we understand each other’s differences and are able to affirm commonalities, then perhaps there is hope for peace in the region,” she said.

“It’s about making connections and developing mutual respect. It’s about building relationships.”

Church in ‘season of opportunity’ From page 1.

Graham believes there are three key reasons behind the decline in UCA affiliation.

“We are an aged church, so we can expect our natural attrition rate from death to be high.

“There is also the sexuality issue – people have left the church – the reality is that issue has come at some cost.

“Also the NCLS (National Church Life Survey) shows we have not been good at sharing our faith – this is a challenge for us.”

Graham said the church must focus on those who claim a UCA affiliation but don’t attend church.

“There are 150,000 people in South Australia who feel they belong to the UCA – yet we see only 10 to 15 percent of those on a Sunday – this is clearly another big challenge.

“We have to work out how we can connect with those

people and encourage their active involvement in our church.”

Meanwhile Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Graham Vawser said the census statistics are a broad brushstroke, and NCLS figures on church attendance, due to be released early next year, will provide more specific information.

“There’s nothing new in the census figures,” Graham said.

“We had our wake-up call five years ago – that’s when we started to realise we couldn’t continue the way we were.

“We have already acknowledged the problems and have started to implement change.

“We have a new Strategic Plan and we’ve also formed mission networks to support and encourage congregations in mission.

“We’ve been working on things for some time – but the turnaround won’t take place overnight.”

Moonta knits for orphans THE MOONTA craft group is enthusiastically knitting garments for orphans in the tiny country of Muldova and for children with AIDs in Mozambique.

We are thankful to God for the provision of wool, knitted and sewn garments and postage money, which has been donated from all over.

Recently we sent three large, tightly packed bags to Sydney.

The garments are then packed into a large crate and sent overseas twice a year.

We also have a group that makes parchment cards. These are given away to encourage others.

The atmosphere in our craft group is one of busy fingers, chatty tongues and great enjoyment.

Long-time volunteer Neta Ladner outside the Wallaroo Uniting Church.

A dedicated volunteer WHEN NETA Ladner agreed to volunteer at her church Op Shop, she never imagined she would still be a volunteer more than 50 years later.

“The Methodist church needed to raise 250 pounds, so we thought we’d run an Op Shop for six weeks. We were dubious about whether it would work,” Nita explained.

Over the years the shop has been in a number of locations, always providing a vital service to the local community.

“People come in for all sorts of reasons. It’s not just about clothes, it’s about friendship. When people need help we can point them in the right direction.”

The shop raises vital funds for the parish, and recently financed the painting of the Wallaroo Uniting Church.

Nita is part of a dedicated team.” For our volunteers it is a chance to give back to the community. If people need help – we give it.”

Meanwhile the Jerusalem, Kadina and Wallaroo Uniting Churches are also working in partnership with UnitingCare Port Pirie to support victims of domestic violence.

They have furnished eight houses in the past year. The church members and volunteers band together to find everything necessary to give people a fresh start.

– Shannon Short

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EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN Gardener. Stephen is your spare pair of hands. Phone 8346 0933.

Bookcases. Five small @ $35. One large @ $50. Phone Sharonne Price on 8366 3809

– Helen Thredgold AUGUST 2007

16

MAGAZINE

New Times

Musical worship THE IMPORTANCE OF MUSIC in worship has been stressed by visiting Scottish minister, theologian and Iona Community member Rev John Bell.

John works for Iona’s publishing arm the Wild Goose Resource Group, in the areas of music and worship, when he’s not travelling the world teaching.

He was also part of the team which spent a decade revising the Scottish Church Hymnary.

Despite writing many collections of original hymns and songs, John modestly claims he’s no musician.

“I don’t play an instrument or sing – I merely use my voice as a teaching tool.

So you could say I have an enabling voice – with no pretensions of being a recording star.”

John held workshops in Adelaide at the end of June focussing on Christ’s life and ministry, and the integration of worship, music and community.

He said music is a powerful part of worship, because what we sing is what we end up

believing.

“What we sing, say and do in worship shapes and rehearses our theology, our Christology and our missiology,” he said.

“For many people ‘Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so’, is one of the foundational songs in Christian music. It’s a positive affirmation of Christianity.

“This belief about music shaping our lives and theology also came from Charles Wesley at the beginning of Methodism. He wrote many songs that are condensations of scripture or theological insight.”

John said while revising the Scottish Hymnary (which meant reviewing more than 30,000 songs), he was mindful that the hymns must still be relevant.

“All the old stuff like ‘there’s a land for little children above the bright blue sky’ was created by a society where infant mortality was high and remaining siblings asked where they had gone. Songs were developed to answer that.

“Today issues of comparative importance in the

Political leaders speak THE LEADERS of Australia’s two major political parties will speak ‘live’ to Christians across the nation.

People from a variety of denominations are expected to gather in their churches on the evening of Thursday 9 August to watch a live webcast of Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd addressing church leaders.

‘Federal Election 2007 – Make it Count’ will be hosted by the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) at the National Press Club in Canberra.

“This is a unique chance for Christians to hear first-hand from the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader about why they think they should be endorsed to lead our nation, and to hear their responses to questions from church leaders,” ACL managing director Jim Wallace said.

Participating churches must register prior to the event through the ACL website at www.acl.org.au.

The website provides full details about the event and technical information about the web-cast.

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Scottish minister and Iona Community member Rev John Bell, with his trademark wooden cross, who held workshops in Adelaide at the end of June. minds of children are probably ‘what happens if my mum and dad split up?’

“It’s an entirely different world and we cannot shape contemporary faith using what are clearly jaded and obsolete tools.

“That is not to say that every old hymn is irrelevant

Strategic Plan update Has your congregation received a free Uniting Church SA Strategic Plan DVD and bookmarks? Copies are available from Strategic Plan project manager Linda Bastick on 8236 4212 or email future@sa.uca.org.au.

Congregations are encouraged to play the DVD and consider how to incorporate the Strategic Plan into their mission and ministry.

Linda is also keen to speak to mission network key liaison people to facilitate Strategic Plan presentations and discussions at mission network gatherings.

– that’s not true at all. I love the Psalms and enduring Hymnary. But there is always the question – does that speak to the big picture of the world today, or of the world 100 years ago?

“The team reviewing the Hymnary eliminated over half the items. Whatever was

included needed to keep Biblical truth.

“Amazingly the only objection about the revised Hymnary was that it was too heavy. I thought this was a theological objection, but it was a complaint about the physical weight of the book!”