New Times - February 2006

February 2006

Issue 25, Number 1 PP 565 001/00190 ISSN 0726-2612

‘Blown away’ by response

“WE’RE BLOWN AWAY by the generous response to the 2005 Lenten Appeal,” say Beverly and Trevor Watson, members of Newland Memorial UC in Victor Harbor.

Beverly and Trevor are volunteers in mission in Sri Lanka.

They say they’ll use Lenten funds for a well, pump, water tank storage and a generator for local electricity supply.

“We used our own funds to get the water supply started, but with $12,000 from the Appeal, we’ll now be able to do more than we had dreamed,” they said.

“Our thanks to all who gave so generously.”

Last year Other beneficiaries of the 2005 appeal were: • The children of the Klong Toey Slum in Bangkok, Thailand.

• Farmers in Sitio Cabaroan, North Luzon in the Philippines.

• The Lenten Overseas Disaster Fund.

The fund has been used for relief work in the stricken Kashmir Pakistan region.

This is made possible by Uniting International Mission partnering with the Church of North India.

Churches and groups across SA contributed a total of A$49,337 for the 2005 Appeal.

Indigenous delegates from the APY Lands, Port Augusta and Salisbury, will be supported to attend NCYC (National Christian Youth Convention) in Perth in January 2007 through the 2006 Lenten Appeal. This picture was taken at NCYC in Adelaide last year.

inside…

Pray for our church

2

This year

SMG’s new director

3

The UCA Lenten Appeal is now in its 31st year.

It continues to benefit many partner churches, especially in Asia, Melanesia and the Pacific.

The five projects for 2006 will support: • Theological training at the Ecumenical Theological Seminary for indigenous Filipinos in the United Church of Christ in the Philippines.

• The Lenten Overseas Disaster Fund.

Pancake Day

3

UC Easter cards

5

People in Mission

6

Seniors honoured

7

Open House

9

Bridging the gap

11

Continued on page 2.

Lenten Disaster fund - Children in a post-tsunami camp in Aceh – Uniting Church Overseas Aid picture.

Please hand out at your church door

2

NEWS

New Times

‘Pray for our church’ - Moderator MODERATOR, Rev Graham Vawser, has appealed for prayers for the church.

He has asked particularly for prayers for: • Persecuted Christians.

• The Uniting Church’s national Assembly in Brisbane in July.

• The people who make up the Presbytery and Synod of SA. The first of the new style of Presbytery and Synod meetings will be held next month.

• Members of congregations and their mission networks.

Graham said decisions the church made last November set in place a new structure for the Uniting Church in SA. “At the beginning of 2006, we are discovering the benefits of our new structures, and learning what still needs to be done to grow in faithful mission for Christ,” he said.

“As we move into the activities of this year, I ask you to keep the church in your prayers. Please “PRAY for the Church throughout the world, remembering especially Christians who are persecuted, and those in places where Christianity is a way of life that is taken for granted.

“PRAY for the people preparing for the meeting of Assembly in July this year, that the Spirit of Christ will oversee all preparations and the business of the meeting.

“PRAY for the people who make up the Presbytery and Synod in South Australia, that we will discern the will of our Lord and be open to new opportunities to witness to Christ’s life and saving grace.

“PRAY for the leaders and members of your own congregation, your neighbouring congregations, and those in your Mission Network, that each person (including yourself) will feel the encouragement of the Spirit to witness to the faith and love we know in Christ Jesus.”

Graham has offered this prayer to use as people pray for the church: Eternal God, since the beginning of time you have called your people to journey from slavery to freedom, from brokenness to healing, from despair to hope, from struggle to peace.

Lord Jesus, you have called us to be your witnesses in all the world.

Help us to rejoice in your presence, to experience your love, and to follow in your way.

Holy Spirit of Christ, you awaken in us gifts for all kinds of ministries.

Make us effective witnesses to Christ bringing new life to our world.

Be with your church in every place, O God, and be with our Church.

‘Blown away’ by response

From page 1

• Equipping congregational treasurers in the United Church of Papua New Guinea.

• Indigenous youth from the APY lands, and Port Augusta and Salisbury UAICC congregations to attend NCYC in Perth 2007.

• People affected by HIV/AIDS in the Saiyarak Community in Nan, Northern Thailand.

PowerPoint presentations for

each week of Lent and many worship, prayer and children’s resources will be available on the MRN and Synod websites for congregations to download for Lent 2006.

The Lenten Appeal is not just about money.

It is embedded in the ongoing, long-term friendships with our partner churches and involves the sharing of lives through resources for worship and prayer.

Fixed Fixed Term Investments 3 years 2 years 1 year 6 months

6.00% p.a.

5.85% p.a.

5.75% p.a.

5.50% p.a.

Money Manager 5.00% p.a.

School Saver 5.25% p.a.

Minimum opening investment $500

UC Invest Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide Telephone (08) 8236 4220 Facsimile (08) 8236 4280 ucinvest@sa.uca.org.au ucinvest.com.au

UC Invest is a proud sponsor of

UnitingCare’s UnitingCare’s Pancake Day Tuesday 28 February 2006

FEBRUARY 2006

Paradox of Our Time

This responsive reading was prepared by Rev Dr Perla Dingayan of the ecumenical Theological Seminary of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines. It was written for this year’s Lenten Appeal.

Leader – Our life today, Lord is full of paradox: we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints.

People – We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less.

Leader – We have bigger houses, but smaller families; more convenience, but less time.

People – We have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, yet more problems; more medicines, but less wellness.

Leader – We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom and hate too often.

People – We have learned to make a living, but not a life.

We have added years to life, but not life to years.

Leader - We have conquered outer space, but not inner space. We have done larger things, but not better things.

People – We have cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul.

We have conquered the atom, but not our prejudice.

ALL – Search us, O God, and know our hearts: try us and know our thoughts. And see if there is any wicked way in us, and cleanse and lead us to your way everlasting.

Widows with HIV/AIDS in northern Thailand will be helped to improve the welfare of affected children and families in their region with funds from the 2006 Lenten Appeal.

You’re invited to UC Invest’s annual Gift Funding Presentation Night (Celebrating grants that help equip local congregations for mission)

Please join us on Thursday 30th March 2006 7pm to 9pm Adelaide West Uniting Church 312 Sir Donald Bradman Drive Brooklyn Park To assist with catering, RSVP to Jill Freear on 8236 4228 or email jill@sa.uca.org.au

by Thursday 16th March 2006.

NEWS

New Times

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SMG has a new director Nicholas Kerr HAYDN LUSH is new director of the SA Schools Ministry Group.

Haydn has received two Young Citizen of the Year awards for his work with disadvantaged young people and for setting up youth centres and youth networks in SA. His SMG appointment was endorsed at the last SA Heads of Christian Churches meeting. About 76,000 students in more than 180 state schools across SA have weekly access to SMG people.

“There are 182 SMG positions in SA,” Haydn said. “About 160 are filled at the moment. We’re working on filling the vacancies.”

SA churches set up SMG to oversee ministry to schools in SA in 1991. “It takes on the program of chaplaincy, as well as support for religious education in schools and student groups,” Haydn said.

“It has representatives from all mainline churches in SA as well as youth agencies and organisations – a total of 20 groups. It’s quite exciting that the representation is so broad.”

SMG will not use the words “chaplain” and “chaplaincy” in future. There has been some confusion about the terms. In the past, in some mainline denominations, the word “chaplain” was often used for an ordained person. Many of the SMG people working in schools are not ordained.

“So it’s a matter of public perception and clarity,” Haydn said.

“We’re in the process of negotiating with the Education Department to formalise a new name – something that’s clear and represents the work our people do in schools.

“We don’t yet know what the term will be, but we’re happy with the direction the conversations are going in.”

Haydn said a number of the agencies on the SMG board make presentations in schools. “Sometimes they do motivational speaking,” he said. “Sometimes they give faith based presentations about the Christian framework of thinking and understanding of life.”

The SMG student groups can be very diverse. “They could be breakfast clubs, or programs for young people dealing with grief or other issues in their lives, or personal development programs.

“The groups are often involved in building community in the schools. The programs are often held at recess or lunchtime.”

Until Haydn took up the director’s position he was SMG state coordinator for chaplaincy.

“I’m really passionate about this work,” he said. “I was a chaplain myself for nine years, working in Victor Harbor High School and Yankalilla Area School. Then I had the opportunity of starting the SMG primary chaplaincy program in SA. “The work’s important to me because I’ve always longed to provide support for young people. Some of them are going through times of turbulence and growth.

“There are so many demands on young people. One of my key interests is helping young people find a sense of purpose in their lives. Other key words for me are ‘resilience’ and wellbeing’.”

Scott Hawkins thanked The SA Heads of Christian Churches have thanked former director, Scott Hawkins, for his contribution to the work of SMG. Scott has taken on a position with Careforce Church in Victoria.

Former Young Citizen of the Year, Haydn Lush, new director of the SA Schools Ministry Group.

Work in gaols, orphanages overseas HAYDN LUSH has visited agencies working with young people in more than 30 countries.

This included working with people in gaols and orphanages in different countries.

“It helped me understand world religions – and people’s longing for success and to find their own identity, who they are as people,” he said.

“It also helped me understand a lot more about Australian culture and history.

“I found my experiences in India, especially, very profound.

“I was with people who had next to nothing.

They were some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met – and they’re willing to share the very little that they have.”

’Tis the season to be flipping FEBRUARY is the month to warm up your frypans, slip on a yellow apron and enjoy a pancake to raise money for UnitingCare agencies across South Australia.

As Shrove Tuesday, February 28, draws closer, groups from Ceduna to Mount Gambier are planning to hold Pancake Day events.

SA Pancake Day coordinator, Aimee Burtenshaw, is preparing for the biggest Pancake Day South Australia has ever seen. More than 260 groups have already registered. “We’ve had a fantastic response to our call for registrations especially from churches and schools,” she said.

“Last year 59 churches and 35 schools

held Pancake Day events in South Australia.

“This year we already have 83 churches registered and 60 schools.”

There is still plenty of time to register to hold an event. Simply call the Pancake Day hotline on 1800 060 543.

UnitingCare is also looking for volunteers who will be willing to sell pancakes outside Bunnings hardware stores on a Saturday this month. To volunteer call 1800 060 543 SA’s major Pancake Day event will be held again in Rundle Mall on Shrove Tuesday.

Fire fighters and local RAAF members have been invited to compete in a pancake tossing relay race.

FEBRUARY 2006

NEWS

New Times

5

‘The gospel of the poor’ always very nice to us”.

The two Indian pastors arrived in Adelaide in July last year. They are here for at least two years while they study for Masters in Theology through Flinders University.

Their experience ministering to Dalit people in rural South India has helped shape their proposed thesis topics and ministry aspirations.

Samson hopes to study the liberative acts of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel and its implications for contemporary

church ministry in India.

“It is very sad that people are being oppressed under the Hindu caste system – and that Dalit people are denied not only justice, but also social, political and economic equality,” Samson said.

“There is a religious colour to Indian politics. The government shows no sign of helping the oppressed.

“Luke’s Gospel is the gospel of the poor, where Jesus relates to out-castes and women and there are many parallels to Indian society.

“Our people are struggling for their daily survival. I want to look at how Scripture can provide hope and faith in God and guide people towards fullness of life.”

Gethzi is one of eight female pastors in the Madras Diocese of the Church of South India.

She is concerned with the oppression of Dalit women.

Her proposed thesis will focus on the Old Testament – examining the Exilic Tradition and the similarities between people exiled in Babylon and the despair, suffering and hope of the Dalit women.

The couple say they haven’t “What could be better than chocolate?” is the theme of the latest experienced any prejudice in promotional campaign for congregations. The 2006 Easter postcard Australia, despite being warned design is a joint project of the Uniting Church in SA, WA, Victoria that they might encounter and Tasmania. racism.

“It costs just $65 to invite 1,000 families to share Easter with you,” “We feel very comfortable Shannon Short, Communications and Public Relations Manager, and very well accepted. We Uniting Church SA, said. “That’s great value for money for any are impressed by the way church. As usual the cover design is fixed – and you can print your Australians enjoy life, yet are local details on the reverse side of the card.” also aware and concerned A colour sample copy of the design is on the Synod website at about problems in other www.sa.unitingchurch.org.au/easter. The cards cost $65 for the first 1,000 cards and $50 for additional 1,000s. Orders close on February countries,” Gethzi said.

22. Cards will be available to pick up from March 24.

The couple are currently More information is available from the Uniting Church attending Rosefield Uniting Communications Unit – phone Jo Watts on 8236 4260 Church. They are also likely or email jo@sa.uca.org.au. to be linked with other UCA

SAMSON DEVASAGAYAM and his wife Gethzi Chella Kamala were raised as Christians in South India, unaware that they were Dalits or Untouchables – falling outside of the Hindu caste system.

This was something they discovered only when they enrolled at the seminary to train for ministry.

“Growing up I felt some discrimination but I was unaware it was due to the Caste system,” Gethzi said. “In fact, our Hindu neighbours were

Rev Samson Devasagayam, left, and Rev Gethzi Chella Kamala, at last year’s Synod meeting.

congregations during their time in South Australia.

“We are discovering that churches here have a much broader perspective; for example expressing concern for people in detention centres and for members of the Aboriginal

community,” Gethzi said.

Equal opportunity for women is another aspect of our society which amazes them.

“We were astonished to see women bus drivers here – that just wouldn’t happen back home,” Samson said.

Easter cards campaign

FEBRUARY 2006

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MAGAZINE

New Times

Theological students visit us NINE YOUNG theological students from Papua, Indonesia, have just enjoyed the experience of a lifetime in South Australia, thanks to a grant from the Uniting Foundation.

The three young men and six young women are from the GKI, the Evangelical Christian Church in Papua, Indonesia.

“All of us want to thank the Uniting Church for bringing us here,” said Heldi Harun. “It has been a really good experience of partnership for each of us.”

The students have been on a month long study tour. They have experienced Australian culture, practised their English and seen the Uniting Church in action. The students all attend the I S Kijne Theological College in Abepura, near Jayapura. Most of them are training to work in ministry.

The group arrived in Adelaide just before Christmas and initially stayed with Rev Adam and Kate Tretheway who knew them during their placement in West Papua from 2002 to 2004.

“Adam and I taught these students English when we worked at the theological college, so it was wonderful to play host to them in Australia,” Kate said. “There’s no doubt this trip has been invaluable in broadening their horizons and understanding of the world.

“They’ve gone home with new ideas about mission and ministry and also an appreciation of the challenges faced by other Indigenous people.”

As well as getting an Australian taste of Christmas, the students have also experienced the church’s community service role – visiting a range of programs run by UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide and meeting elderly people in UnitingCare nursing homes.

Visiting student Ronald Yoku greatly enjoyed the opportunity. He was impressed by the way Australians care for and share with others.

“At Port Adelaide, I saw how the Australian Government and the Uniting Church recognise the needs of people, even drug addicts,” he said.

“This is very different from Papua.”

In January the nine students were hosted by members of rural churches in Maitland and then later at Waikerie, Berri and Barmera.

They also spent time with Ngarrindjeri people at Camp Coorong, near Meningie, and enjoyed living in the homes of many Uniting Church people around Adelaide.

“During my homestays”, said Heldi Harun, “I saw wives and husbands working together in the home. I really liked this.

“In Papua we are now beginning to look at gender roles, starting with the church.”

People in Mission TEN PEOPLE were in Adelaide last month for the People in Mission two week pre-service training before they head off to placements in Africa, Asia and the Pacific. They were: Janice Wall, (from Queensland) who is going to Bethany Home, Malaysia.

Cliff Powell (NSW), going to Rarongo Theological College, PNG. David Schreiber (SA), going to East Timor.

Tamara Megaw (SA), going to Bethany Home, Malaysia.

Christine Schreiber (SA), going to East Timor.

Heather Scrimshaw (SA), going to Zambia.

Anne Baines (WA), going to South India, Diocese of Madras.

Marion Powell (NSW), going to Rarongo Theological College, PNG. Jordana Thompson (Vic), going to Tonga.

Sheila Dayman (SA), going to Bethany Home, Malaysia.

People in Mission coordinator, Sandy Boyce, said that People in Mission placements give practical expression to the Uniting Church’s commitment to our partner churches in our region.

“There’s a mutual enrichment in the process,” she said.

“The participants are able to contribute their vocational skills and experience in a different cultural context, as well as engage with and learn from the diverse activities of partner churches.”

For information about the People in Mission program, contact Sandy at sandy@sa.uca.org.au, 0409 283 004, or check www.peopleinmission.blogspot.com for updates about People in Mission activities.

FEBRUARY 2006

New Times

MAGAZINE

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Seniors work recognised MORE THAN 80 individuals and groups have recently received Seniors Awards from the Uniting Church SA for outstanding service to their local church and the community.

The awards are granted each year to recognise the tireless voluntary work of many in our congregations who serve in so many different capacities.

Recent Seniors Award recipients are: Ian Anderson, Colonel Light Gardens; Barbara Bagshaw, Moonta; Hugh Ballantyne, Spicer; Thomas Beare, Henley Fulham; Frederick Bragg, Aldinga; Mary Bragg, Aldinga; Peter Brisbane, Colonel Light Gardens; Reginald Brooker, Wesley/Kent Town; George Burnett, Ceduna.

Heather Clarke, Yankalilla; Brian Clayton, St Andrew’s by the Sea; Dalma Clogg, Gladstone; C.L.G.U.C. Friendship Centre, Colonel Light Gardens; Doris Corrie, Sunset Rock; Margery Cox, Aldinga; Nell Crowell, Price/ Ardrossan.

Marie Dabinett, Pinnaroo; Alan Davies, Wesley/Naracoorte; Mary Edwards, Meadows; Sylvia Eichner, Yorketown.

Maxene Gordon, Glengowrie; Betty Gubbins, Yankalilla; Patricia Hamlyn, Yankalilla; Phoebe Harris, Price/Ardrossan; Kevin Hayley, The Vines; Malcolm Hillam, Sunset Rock; Isabel Hinge, Bordertown; Betty Hocking, Rosefield; David Hogarth, Wesley/Naracoorte; The Home Group, Goolwa; Robert Hudson, Eldercare-Allambi.

Allan Kelly, Wudinna; Olive Kent, Betty Dickinson & Audrey Neindorf, Port Pirie; Neta Ladner, Wallaroo; Glennys Lehmann, Gateway; Stanley Leighton, Cross Roads; Colwyn Low, St Stephen’s.

Stewart (Pat) Mader, Yilki; Gladys Marchant, Karoonda; Ronda Martin, Aldinga; Bob & Mina Matthew, Warradale; Mervyn Matthew, EldercareAllambi & Wesley-Warradale; Jess McLennan, West Lakes; Anne Megaw, Warradale & Eldercare-Allambi, The Monday Boys, Morialta; Moonta Uniting Church World Mission Fellowship, Moonta; Marlene Moore, St Andrew’s by the Sea; Elizabeth Morrison, Kongorong.

Ray Nicholson, Tusmore Park; Audrey Osborn, Temple Worship Centre, Henley Fulham; Clarrie Paice, Tusmore Memorial and Flinders Street Baptist.

Joy Parker, Ascot Community; Donald Pearce, Newland Memorial; Jean Peberdy, Rosefield; Eric Perriam, Helping Hand; Verna Perriam, Helping Hand; Jean Pitman, Wesley House and formerly West Lakes; Coral Plew, Tumby Bay; Bill Quick, Eldercare-Allambi.

Nancy Rielly, Willunga; Helen Rutter, Fulham Worship Centre, Henley Fulham; Clarence Sampson, Wudinna; Mavis Sampson, Wudinna; Nan Sharp, Eldercare-Allambi; Peggy Simms, Cowell; Margaret Simpson, Wudinna; Frank Sladek, Sunset Rock; Desmond Spry, Glengowrie; Edward (Ned) Story, Colonel Light Gardens.

Valmai Tatt, Hope Valley; Brian Thamm, Burra; Aubury Thompson, Elizabeth Grove; Alan Tubb, Port Pirie; John Tulk, Colonel Light Gardens; Joyce Weir, Spicer; Madge Whitford, Yankalilla; Peter Whitford, Yankalilla; Vera Whittington, Gawler; Yvonne Windsor, Golden Grove; Jean Woodrow, Glengowrie; and Gordon Woods, Moonta.

FEBRUARY 2006

8

MAGAZINE

RICH HARVEST? In reply to “Rich harvest” (New Times, November 2005), there may be some crop farmers who are doing well but many are really struggling.

Debt levels are very high as land, machinery and cropping expenses continue to rise while returns on commodities continue to decrease.

When yields are poor, as they have been for many in the last three years, it is only by greater debt, off farm income when possible, and in many cases Centrelink payments, that people are able to stay on their properties.

Bad years are not just caused by drought but also by frost, locusts and other insects, mice and often, for hay producers, rain at the wrong time. Most grains this year will scarcely cover the cost of production and we still have to service debt, feed, clothe and house ourselves and cope with the high fuel prices Crops were looking good but some have been hit by frost and lost the lot, hay has been ruined by rain, grain prices are low and transport and reaping costs very high.

Marian Wicks Yacka

New Times PILGRIM ORGAN Pilgrim Church wishes to acknowledge the generous support from the Uniting Foundation for its assistance with the upgrade of the organ.

The $15,000 grant, together with the church’s maintenance provision and private donations, has provided the state with an instrument of international recital standard.

This was demonstrated most convincingly with a celebratory concert by noted UK organist Thomas Trotter.

It is the first time I have witnessed a spontaneous standing ovation for a classical organ recital. Many of the large audience stated that it was the most exciting recital they had experienced.

There have been six major recitals during 2005 and arrangements are being made for at least three visits by international artists during 2006.

These concerts are helping to place Adelaide, and the Uniting Church, on the map.

It is pleasing to see that the Uniting Foundation is assisting in many forms of outreach by the church. In this case it is also a great encouragement to those who have, over a period of many years, supported the provision of music in the church at the highest level.

Ian Johnson Secretary Pilgrim Uniting Church Adelaide

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YOUTH WEBSITE For many of us the internet and the related technology is a frightening space, and one which we would rather avoid, but for Daniel Murton, a member of our youth community here at St Petri Lutheran Church in Nuriootpa, IT (Information Technology) is not only a career path, but a way to share the Good News of Jesus.

Daniel and Nick Turon, a friend he met on another Christian Forum site, have created a webpage called www.youthwar.com.

People can register free, on the web page and take advantage of the different services offered.

You can share your thoughts and opinions on the given Christian topic for the week, or bring up any questions that might be bothering you about God etc.

You might be able to help answer someone else’s questions.

Other members of the website can respond to your questions with advice or Bible verses or whatever. People can check out the home page of the web site without registering.

“I wanted to create a place for Christian youth to hang out and talk about their beliefs, and I pray that other youth will come in and hear the Good News of Jesus,” Daniel said.

Glenda Kowald Editor “Lutheran Women” Nuriootpa

About your letters Please keep your letters short — about 150 words is ideal.

Longer letters will be cut or rejected.

You’re welcome to email letters to newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or they can be posted to us at GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001

SOCIAL JUSTICE The positioning of the letters from Adam Tretheway and Allan Nield (New Times, November 2005) could not have been better.

Adam is seeking paid or unpaid work experience for his asylum seeker friends while Allan fears the proposed workplace changes could destroy our society.

Under current workplace regulations, asylum seekers and other marginalised people are able to work as volunteers or on work experience at $0 per week or at the legislated minimum wage of about $500 per week.

Anything in between is illegal (no matter how well it might suit their needs, aspirations or purposes).

Countries with regulations like those proposed for Australia have proven to be much better able to accept marginalised and/or low skilled people into the workforce.

Long term unemployment

in these countries is also much lower than ours.

In the end, social justice begins with the opportunity of a job – a chance to be self sufficient – and a chance to move up.

Bob Day Houghton MENTAL ILLNESS I write this letter to encourage those suffering mental and emotional hardship. “Nothing is impossible for God.” My friend, Leigh Allison’s, first book, “Forget the Former”, deeply moved me.

Leigh is a high achiever, having three tertiary qualifications and four careers while suffering a biochemical form of mental illness.

I watched her in times of hopelessness during episodes.

After two suicidal attempts, her understanding that only Jesus Christ could save, physically as well as spiritually, brought her to the reality of Christ’s salvation, healing and restoration.

Leigh’s purpose now is to help others to victory.

Her book, set in the Courtroom of Heaven, is compelling, inspiring, and creative.

It shows the desperation of a woman who is being accused repeatedly within her mind, by the voice of the enemy of her soul.

Her breakthrough into victory comes by daring to believe her Advocate.

I hope many read “Forget the Former” in its honour of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Jenny Hogan, Runcorn Qld

PEOPLE AND PLACES

New Times

9

A new sense of mission The invitation that has been sent to congregations for the Open House

Come and visit us THE PRESBYTERY and Synod of South Australia is holding an Open House to encourage church members to visit and feel welcome.

The Open House will also provide an opportunity for members to see the Mission Resource Network’s new Resource Centre and Gathering Place.

“We want to encourage church people to use the Resource Centre as a city meeting place,” MRN team leader Rev Dr Ian Price said, “It’s also a place where they can browse through books and resources designed to enhance the lives of congregations and also spend some quiet time in prayer.

“Visitors will also be able to meet Presbytery and Synod staff and raise issues of interest.”

The Open House is on Sunday February 12, from 3 to 5pm at the Uniting Church Office, Level 2, 212 Pirie Street.

Office tours will be available as well as afternoon tea. Please RSVP for catering purposes to Heather Bald on 8236 4243, or email heather@sa.uca.org.au.

Lenten study books THE ECUMENICAL Lenten studies book for this year is available from the SA Council of Churches.

“Journeying with the Christ – An ecumenical resource from the gospel of Mark,” has been written by Merrill Kitchen, of Melbourne, and Fr Michael Trainor, of Adelaide.

The Bible studies for groups was commissioned by the Lenten Studies Committee of the SA Heads of Christian Churches.

Price is $6.

APPROXIMATELY 18 months ago a dwindling congregation and shortage of finance meant that we could no longer afford a full time Minister of the Word.

In this time the worship life of the congregation has been supported by lay people within the parish, visiting lay preachers from the BerriBarmera congregations and visiting ministers.

Rev Ian Kitto spends 0.2 time in the parish, working one day a week, presiding over Communion and attending One Church Council meetings.

As we approached the task of ministry a new sense of mission has developed.

Without a permanent minister, the leasing of the manse was a difficult decision, but one that had to be made.

Some events have gained new enthusiasm.

The Helping Hands Fellowship, a craft group, works to encourage and develop gifts and skills.

They invite members of the community to join with them.

The Rose Week Luncheon introduced the Big London Bus, an enterprise of the Riverland Youth Ministries to Renmark.

The Schools West and Primary presented two choirs and a display of Greek dancing. A display of Spiders, Sea Monkeys and an antique

Pictured at Renmark are, from left, Alec Ayling, One Church Council chairperson, Chris Hancock, treasurer, Pauline Edmonds, Marj Lobban and Val Pearce

knitting machine were features of the day.

The Parish monthly Friendship lunches and the recent Cafe Church, invite others to join us.

The number of Samaritan’s Purse Boxes of Love continues to grow – about 66 last year – and is an expression of love for others.

Special chairs for the aging, the provision of handicapped toilets and a planned ramp for the front door, encouraged those who are infirm to come to be with us.

The emergence of a Young Mums Group has enthused us to make the property more inviting and welcoming to

the community.

This year we look forward to supporting our newly appointed chaplain in the High School and financing the Christian Options program in the primary schools.

We have recently donated two tanks of fuel to Frontier Services, since petrol has become so costly As our renewed sense of mission continues to grow we look forward to the future with vision and hope, of once more having the full time presence of a minister of the Word among us.

– Val Pearce

FEBRUARY 2006

10

PEOPLE AND PLACES

President’s Table: Are you aged 18 to 35? The UCA President, Rev Dr Dean Drayton, would like to meet you! The Uniting Church Office is hosting a dinner with him, and you’re invited!

Thursday February 9, 2006, 7pm at Najjar’s Café (21 O’Connell St, North Adelaide), in the upstairs room. Cost: whatever you choose to eat and drink! To register interest, contact Jo Watts on 8236 4260 or jo@sa.uca.org.au Presbytery and Synod of South Australia Open House: You’re invited to join us on Sunday February 12, 3 to 5pm at the Uniting Church Office (Level 2, 212 Pirie St) for an Open House. Come and see the Mission Resourcing Network’s new

Resource Centre and Gathering Place. Local Artists Bronwyn Drew and Sue Adams will be exhibiting their art. Official opening 3.30pm. Have a guided tour of the office and enjoy afternoon tea. RSVP for catering purposes to Heather Bald on 8236 4243, or email heather@ sa.uca.org.au.

Calling all Pancake Day coordinators: Bookings have been made for a Saturday close to Pancake Day (February 28) at various Bunnings and Harvey Norman stores across Adelaide for “Pancake Sizzles”! If you would like to be involved in a “sizzle” please contact Aimee at aimee@sa.uca.org.au

New Times

About this column: Notices for this column should be brief.

To submit your Uniting Church event and to view the synod online calendar, visit www.sa.uca.org.au/pages/events/calendar/.

UCAF national consultation: The triennial Uniting Church Adult Fellowship national consultation will be held at the CWA from May 25 to 28, 2006.

May 25 is the Consultation Dinner, 6pm at Adelaide West UC, cost $20. Consultation Service, 10am at Wesley UC Kent Town, on Sunday, May 28.

Ticket/information from Betty Omond 8337 2272.

Where the money’s going THE NATIONAL and World Mission Support committee is delighted to announce that $35,000 was the profit from the Uniting Church Red Dove Café held at the 2005 Royal Adelaide Show.

Our grateful thanks go to all who supported the Café.

A big thank you to the wonderful and tireless Red Dove Café committee led

by Mrs Rae Cranwell, to the volunteers who helped each day, the people who sent donations of money or goods and all those people who came to enjoy the food on offer.

Well done!

The $35,000 has been given to: $10,000 – The Moderator’s

Appeal for Chaplaincy to Baxter Detention Centre and refugees. $3,000 – Frontier Services – South Australia Patrol Ministry. $3,000 – Schools Ministry Group – Chaplains in Primary and High Schools. $3,000 – The Noah Centre – Ministry to newly released prisoners. $2,000 – UCA Prison Chaplaincy. $2,000 – Refugee Support Fund. $2,000 – UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide Emergency Relief. $2,000 – UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide East Emergency Relief.

$2,000 – UnitingCare Wesley Bowden Emergency Relief. $1,000 – UAICC – Salisbury. $1,000 – UnitingCare Port Pirie – Micro Credit Program. $1,000 – Elanora Centre – The Ranch – Accommodation for homeless people. $1,000 – UnitingCare Commission – Mental Health Chaplaincy. $1,000 – Kairos Prison Ministry. $1,000 – Children and Youth – SAYCO and/or KCO. We give thanks that this money will now be used in the caring ministry of the church in the wider community.

– Joy Dunning

Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide. GPO Box 2145 Adelaide SA 5001 Phone (08) 8236 4260 Fax (08) 8236 4295 Email: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au www.sa.uca.org.au

Telling stories about an innovative, growing church which is proclaiming Jesus Christ and is empowered by the Spirit to transform God’s world.

Who we are: New Times is a monthly tabloid news magazine serving the Uniting Church SA. It is published 11 times a year with a combined January-February issue. New Times is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association. It has won the Gutenberg award for excellence in religious publication. Its editor has won the same award for excellence in religious communications.

Advertising: To advertise contact Russell Baker, phone 8361 6822, fax 8361 6865, email ribad@bigpond.com Deadlines and distribution dates: March issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, February 8, distributed, Sunday. March 5. • April issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, March 8, distributed, Sunday, April 2. • May issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, April 5, distributed, Sunday, May 7. • June issue: Closing date for contributions, Tuesday, May 9, distributed, Sunday, June 4. • July issue: Closing date for contributions, Tuesday, June 6, distributed, Sunday, July 2. • August issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, July 12, distributed, Sunday, August 6. • September issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, August 9, distributed, Sunday, September 3. • October issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, September 6, distributed, Sunday, October 1. • November issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, October 11, distributed, Sunday, November 5. • December issue: Closing date for contributions, Wednesday, November 8, distributed, Sunday, December 3.

Subscriptions: New Times is distributed free to Uniting Churches in SA. You can also subscribe and have New Times posted to you.

Subscriptions cost $30 if you are within SA, $35 if you are interstate, $40 if you are overseas.

Submitted material: New Times does not take responsibility for returning submitted photographs or other material.

Our partners: Many of our readers support New Times by making a gift to help us keep up with our costs. Gifts can be sent to us at GPO Box 2145, Adelaide, 5001.

Distribution: We are distributed on the first Sunday of each month.

Opinions: Opinions expressed in New Times do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the policies of the Uniting Church.

Editor: Nicholas Kerr. Assistant: Jo Watts.

New Times is designed by Edi Leane and Les Colston of Joie Creative, PO Box 29, Kent Town, SA 5071 and printed by Cadilac, 64 Kinkaid Avenue, North Plymton, SA 5037

Deadline

MARCH 2006 issue: Deadline for contributions, Wednesday, February 8.

The issue will be distributed on Sunday, March 5.

FEBRUARY 2006

World issues: Dr Keith Suter of the Wesley Mission in Sydney will speak at a forum organized by the Effective Living Centre Christ Church Wayville on Thursday April 6, 8pm at Maughan Church. He will address the topic of his latest book, “Global Notebook – 50 things you want to know about world issues but were too afraid to ask.”

Tickets $15 or $10 concession, available from the ELC on 8261 6496.

Philippines exposure trip: People in Mission offers opportunities to join in God’s work through short term exposure trips with our partner churches overseas. This is an opportunity to experience life in the Philippines in Easter 2006 (April 8 to 28).

The United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) is a partner church with the Uniting Church in Australia.

For more information contact Sandy Boyce, People in Mission Coordinator, on 8236 4240.

150th Celebration: April 30, 2006 the Henley-Fulham UC will celebrate the opening of the Wesleyan Church with a 9.45am time of thanksgiving, at Weetunga, Fulham, then a service 10.30am at Fulham Worship Centre, followed by lunch.

Relatives of those who attended the early church or anyone connected to the present one are welcome. Enquiries Eileen Squire, 8356 3461.

Eco-spiritual retreats: The Anglican Diocese of Willochra has announced dates of its Eco-spirituality retreats – June 5 to 10, “Syd’s backyard,”

Angepena Station; July 23 to 8, “A mountain and a lake,” Mount Ive Station; August 15 to 19, “Where eagles rise,” Grindell’s Hut, Gammon Ranges; September 4 to 9, “Wirrealpa experience,” Wirrealpa; September 25 to 30, “Brachina and beyond,” Gum Creek Station. For details, email daca1@bigpond.com, or call 8676 2253.

God’s Word, God’s World: Mission Prayer Handbook 2006 “God’s Word, God’s World” is available from MediaCom, PO Box 610 Unley 5061 or via admin@mediacom.org.au @ $8.50 per copy (including postage and handling). A 10 per cent discount is available for orders of five copies or more.

Distance Learning Packs: You can learn about the Bible, worship leading, faith or service in your own home at your own pace. Parkin-Wesley College has a wide range of distance learning topics available, including some topics on DVD in 2006. Ideal for busy people or those living away from Adelaide. Call Rosalie on 8416 8427 or email p-wcollege@ flinders.edu.au for more information.

Fruit for sale: Oranges, 3kg bag, $2.50. Dried apricots, dried nectarines and dried peaches, ½ kg, $7.50 or 1kg $15. Pumpkin (average 10 kg) $5 each. Honey 700g jars – light, medium or dark, $7.50 per jar. Full range of chocolate coated dried fruit, plus chocolate coated liquorice and ginger and also chocolate coated prunes, all $5.50 per tub. Order through Lyn Leane at Uniting Church office (lyn@sa.uca.org. au) or Graeme Cavanagh on almostorganic@hotkey.net.au, phone 0428 412 759.

Check the synod online calendar http://www.sa.uca.org. au/pages/events/calendar/

PEOPLE AND PLACES

New Times

‘Bridging the gap’ at West Lakes WEST LAKES Church on Bartley Terrace celebrated 30 years together recently.

While swamp land was being transformed into islands, lakes, shopping centres and football ovals by land developers in the Dunstan era, an ecumenical group dreamed of planting a multidenominational congregation at West Lakes.

In September, 1975, in a new purpose-built manse on Manly Circuit, the first church service was held in the lounge room.

Within a few months the congregation had reached 70 people and worship was transferred to Semaphore Park Primary School, while a new church was built next to the Bartley Terrace Shopping Centre.

A combined Churches of Christ and Uniting Church congregation was formed and within a few more years, the church building was sold to become doctors’ and dentists’ surgeries and the church had converted a petrol service station into a worship and community centre.

The building was opened by Governor Keith Seaman with Archbishop Gleeson present for the Catholic congregation that also shared the worship centre.

Part of the phenomenal growth of the church was due to its strong community development ethos.

As new homes and gardens were being established, the church showed it cared by renting out rotary hoes very cheaply.

The church built a retirement village, which is now next to independent living units owned by UnitingCare Wesley Port Adelaide.

Rev John Watt returned to West Lakes for their celebrations to share his memories of those early days.

The church continues to be ecumenical in nature, with worship open for people of all denominations and as a hub for community programs offered by the church or community organizations.

Current minister, Rev Sue Ellis spoke about the vision of the congregation to “Bridge the Gap” in people’s lives by providing a warm, welcoming and active community, where people of all ages can have fun.

The church’s newest community venture is “Playgroup in the Park” to be held in Children’s Week in October, to care for and support families with children 0-5years.

A contemplative worship experience IMAGINE A Sunday evening where you walk into the beautiful bush chapel at Nunyara to the sound of gentle music, the soft glow of candles and the invitation to be still and to know God in the depths of your being.

Outside are the sounds of nature settling down for the night’s rest.

Inside a worshipping community settles down – to worship, pray, listen and simply be.

During the next hour there will be prayers, symbols, words and music to refresh your soul before the new week begins again.

This is an occasion to receive the gracious gift of time – to restore the sacred rhythm of work, rest and prayer, a rhythm that has sustained those seeking to live out the Way of Jesus for centuries but which so easily gets lost in the pressure to do many things and to absorb much information.

Such are the Stillpoint Contemplative worship experiences which started in September, 2005.

Since then some 60 to 70 people have participated in these services, with about 30 gathered on any one night.

Frontier Services appointments Sturt Patrol: Rev Jenny Swanbury will take up responsibility for this patrol on March 1. The patrol boundaries have been extended and Jenny will be based in Orroroo.

Mobile Aboriginal Patrol: David Wright’s appointment has been extended for a further two years.

Tennant Barkly Patrol: Rev John Flaherty and his wife Rev Elizabeth Warschaeur will take up responsibility for this patrol for Frontier Services, and the Tennant Creek Congregation for the Northern Synod, on March 1. They will be based in Tennant Creek for this 1.5 appointment.

Katherine Patrol: Rev Mitch Fialkowski of Western Australia began in this patrol on January 1.

Your prayers for all these folk as they move to the isolated areas of our country to serve those who face the challenge of the disadvantage of distance will be greatly appreciated.

Patrols seeking placement are Flinders, based in Hughenden, and Cunnamulla, both in Queensland and West Coast Patrol in Tasmania which will work out of Smithton.

– Dorothy Haensel

Those who gather enjoy the gentle, unhurried pace of the worship and the opportunity to be silent and wait on God, opportunities that are perhaps too infrequent in our busy, noisy world.

Stillpoint is a joint venture between the Adelaide West Uniting Church Spirituality Centre and the Colonel Light Gardens Uniting Church.

Through their involvement in spirituality, Ann Siddall, from the Adelaide West Centre, and Rev Gary Stuckey, minister of the Colonel Light Gardens Church, sensed some people desiring a different way of worshipping.

A number of those who have participated in the Stillpoint worship have expressed a sense of being calmed and strengthened to begin a new week.

It is hoped that the contemplative worship will be the first step in the formation of a new church community formed around a basic commitment to a rhythm of work, rest and prayer while still offering the contemplative worship to any who simply wish to attend.

You can find out more about Stillpoint from Ann Siddall (on 8234 1199 in the mornings or by email at annsiddall@bigpond. com) or Rev Gary Stuckey (8370.7923 or by email at gstu@senet. com.au).

– Gary Stuckey

Ministry acknowledged THE PORT ELLIOT annual congregation meeting acknowledged the part-time ministry over the past eight years of Rev Alan Jones – and the joint part-time ministry of Alan with Rev Lewis Kelsall, which began in July 1, 2005.

Both are former students of Cliff College in England and later of Wesley Theological College in Adelaide.

They coordinate well to meet the needs of varied social groups.

The different styles emanating from their scholarship and experience are appreciated by the over 70 regular attendants at worship, together with their varied contributions in pastoral support.

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Classifieds BROKEN HILL CONGREGATION’S 2006 “Hospitality Venture” Six day holiday package dates: 25th - 30th May and 7th - 12th September.

Contact our Church office for a brochure - Phone (08) 8087 5317

WORK WANTED CARPETS LAID, Expert repairs 0417 872 105 or 8344 4725.

EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN; Hospital trained cleaner; roses pruned; friendly versatile service.

“Your spare pair of hands” Phone 8346 0933.

ACCOMMODATION MARION BAY HOLIDAY HOUSE, Sea views Large Deck Sleeps 5/6 New home Off Peak and Pensioner rates. Phone 040 2088 279.

CHRISTIAN-RUN HOSTEL. Country Burra. 2 hours from Adelaide. Private rooms. Individual support. Home cooking. Pensioner rates. Limited transport provided. Enquiries “Olive Grove Retreat” 8892 2679 BELAIR, overlooking the Adelaide lights. Nunyara Holiday Units, 3 star rated family accommodation. Sleep 4-6, reasonable rates. A UCA site.

Bookings phone 8278 1673.

NUNYARA, Conference Centre. Belair, 15 minutes from the city centre.

Excellent facilities for residential or day conferences for church, school or business. UCA rates available.

Information and bookings: phone 8278 1673.

HOLIDAY UNITS ON THE SOUTH COAST, Devon (Pt Elliot) 3 Star and Peter Wood Lodge (Victor Harbor) 3.5 Star 2 and 3 bedroom accommodation close to the beach.

Reasonable rates. A UCA site.

Bookings phone 8552 1657.

ADARE CARAVAN PARK, Wattle Drive Victor Harbor. 3 star rated. Clean, quiet and shady, close to the beach. Cabins available. Bookings phone 8552 1657.

ADARE CONFERENCE CENTRE, Victor Harbor. For your next church camp. Catered or self catered.

Comfortable accommodation.

Spacious rates for UC groups. For information or bookings phone 8552 1657.

- Robert Miller

C W C I ... a minstry of women to women.

FEBRUARY 2006

12

MAGAZINE

New Times

KCO: A great weekend

IMAGINE HUNDREDS upon hundreds of children from ages seven to 12 from all over SA migrating to Adelaide to celebrate together in the adventure of KCO. KCO stands for KUCA (Kids of the Uniting Church) Camp Out. KCO will be on April 1 and 2 this year.

KCO is already an established rite of passage for a generation of now adults within the Uniting denomination.

It reaches out to a wider community of churches, community groups and schools working within the Uniting Church ethos, uniting the varied participants in two-days of fun-filled worship.

The camp is hosted at the Adelaide Shores Caravan Resort at West Beach.

It promises to be a weekend focused on nurturing and supporting this newest generation of worshippers.

The efforts of committed volunteers provide a safe and caring environment for the camp, bringing about a rare opportunity for children to interact positively with their peers and with the wider church community.

A huge tent city The jam packed program of activities outlined for the weekend is sure to draw the kids from the confines of the huge tent city, which is erected to house nearly 3000 people, into the fresh air of the campsite by the sea.

During the day, devotions and a huge range of activities aim at encouraging the expression of the campers’ faith.

On the Saturday afternoon there is a carnival, swimming, sandcastle competitions and craft workshops that will provide fun activities and cater for all ages.

Later, a great night program, including Innhaus Fish and a Rove style radio play, will keep the kids from their sleeping bags and on their feet worshipping our creator! Not to mention a fireworks display!

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of the camp will be the music and songs which are lead by the young and very funky KCO Band. With all of these performances and activities reported over the KCO Radio (KCO FM) it’s sure to be a great weekend.

If you would like to come to KCO or find out more about it, check out our website at http://local.sa.uca.org.au/kco/ or call Heidi.

– Megan Winen and Peter Morel

This year’s KCO logo by Edi Leane

KCO launch KCO will be launched at Rosefield Uniting Church from 2pm to 3.30pm on March 12.

Everyone is welcome.

Please let the KCO Office (call Heidi on 8236 4242) know if you are intending to come so that we can provide afternoon tea and coffee for everyone.

A new impetus for dialogue BENEDICT XVI has given new impetus to dialogue with the World Alliance of Reformed Churches.

The Pope met a delegation from the alliance in Rome last month – the first meeting of its kind between the alliance and the Vatican.

“I pray that our meeting today will itself bear fruit in a renewed commitment to work for the unity of all Christians,” the Pope said.

“The way before us calls for wisdom, humility, patient study and exchange.”

Zenit news agency said the Reformed Churches delegation was made up of five representatives, including US representative

Dr Clifton Kirkpatrick, the president of the alliance. He told the Pope: “The Reformed family is grateful to God for the three phases of the Reformed-Catholic dialogue that have been completed.”

He said the alliance is eager to move closer to the Catholic Church “in common faith and witness.

“There is still much to be done,” he said, “to move beyond our past condemnations of one another, as parts of the one body of Jesus Christ, serve God together without worrying about inhibitions in our nations and to come together at the table of our Lord.”

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

FEBRUARY 2006

www.sa.unitingchurch.org.au