New Times - April 2015

Issue 34, No 3, 2015

The voice of Uniting Church SA

April 2015

Resurrection SHAPING AND RE-SHAPING LIVES THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESURRECTION

Uniting Church

Reflections on Easter

remembers the ANZACs

and Christ’s resurrection

p. 9

pp. 10-11

Annual Robert Iles Memorial Lecture Beyond Apathy: The Waning of Postmodernism and the New Role for Intuition

Contents

Henk Reitsema M. Div., M.A. L’Abri Fellowship, Utrecht, Netherlands

FEATURES Shaping and re-shaping lives The significance of the resurrection

9 10-11

Keeping youth engaged with faith

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Responding to God’s great acts of kindness

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7.30 pm • Thursday 21st May 2015 Burnside City Uniting Church Cnr. Portrush Road and Fisher Street, Tusmore Supper

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REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s comment

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CEO/General Secretary’s comment

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Getting to know...

The Robert Iles Memorial Trust exists to celebrate and promote the Christian faith within Australian society and engage with the culture of the day and to bring a biblical perspective to contemporary public issues in society and the world.

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Sermons and other writings of Robert can be found at www.ilesblog.com

Letters 21 Diary 23 Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Communications Design: David Lombardi Print: Graphic Print Group For editorial inquiries: p. (08) 8236 4249 e. newtimes@sa.uca.org.au m. The Editor,

New Times GPO Box 2145

Adelaide SA 5001 For advertising bookings: p. (08) 8236 4260 e. advertising.newtimes@sa.uca.org.au

w: newtimes.sa.uca.org.au facebook.com/NewTimesUCA

Cross Cultural Relationship Workshops Facilitated by Rev Dr Tony Floyd (Assembly National Director for Multi & Cross Cultural Ministry) Develop key skills and understanding of Multi & Cross-Cultural Ministry Calling all UCA members in leadership roles, leaders of Councils and entities associated with UCA and Synod Staff to participate in in a unique opportunity to develop key skills and understanding in the sector of the church that is showing the most growth – Multi & Cross Cultural Ministry.

This invitation is also open to members of the community who work closely with people from diverse backgrounds.

Learn how we can fully engage in living faith and life across cultures.

ISSN 0726-2612

Date

Venue

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

April 28 & 29 (Tuesday & Wednesday) Commencing 9.30am Dinner included on Tuesday

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

Next issue: Story Narratives are central in much of Jesus’ teachings throughout the Bible and continue to be used widely in the Uniting Church today. Stories help us to share, teach and connect with one another. They help us to express our faith in a wide variety of ways. Each member of the Uniting Church has their own unique story to tell. This edition of New Times provides an avenue for people across the breadth of the church to share and teach one another, expressing our faith and spirituality in all its diverse forms.

DEADLINE FOR MAY 2015 Wednesday 8 April

Further details can be obtained by contacting Bev Freeman on 8236 4243 or bfreeman@sa.uca.org.au

Cover details

This month’s cover photo was taken on a smart phone

by Ian Trengove as the sun rose over Paulett Wines at Polish Hill River. The Clare Valley churches gathered at this location to participate in an ecumenical dawn service on Easter Sunday in 2013.

editorial

Left: Connections Cafe, the site of the old Greenock Uniting Church. Right: The recently closed Booborowie Uniting Church building.

More about the Booborowie closure can be read on page 6.

Sometimes the end can also spell the beginning My Facebook feed was recently flooded with pictures and comments regarding the closure and last service of Booborowie Uniting Church.

The quaint little church, affectionately known as “Boob” or the “Little Church,” had been operating for 124 years in the small farming hamlet close to Burra in South Australia’s Mid-North region.

The last service attracted 97 past worshippers, ministers and Uniting Church members from surrounding churches. Photographs from the final moments were shared over Facebook, and there was significant dialogue regarding the closure. People debated the reasons for the end – finances, the state of the rural community, issues around insurance, the Mission and Service Fund, and the list went on.

Social media certainly gives rise to events which might otherwise go relatively unnoticed. Facebook presents a public forum, allowing people to put forward their point of view for all to see. Even Uniting Church President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney weighed into the conversation, offering a well-written, past blog post he found pertinent to Booborowie’s closure. This post suggests that wherever there is a community of believers, there is a church, and that we need to find other ways to imagine ourselves as part of what God is doing around us and with us.

Boob’s closure and Andrew’s comments made me reflect on an article I wrote in July 2014 regarding the transformation of Greenock Uniting Church. The piece, aptly titled “Ridiculous faith,” told the story of a church community who made the bold and brave decision to close their doors in May 2007. Although the members of the church had thought this was the end, they continued as a small but strong community with a deep faith, open to God’s leading. Before long, the remaining members felt a stirring in their hearts, feeling that God wanted to journey with them and take the church community in a different direction.

In January 2008 the unexpected happened – the church reopened.

After its closure, the remaining Greenock church community had continued to meet semi-regularly and began to focus on what they had, rather than what they were lacking. They concentrated on their spiritual giftings and their common desire to serve people in the wider community. They looked at the church through a different lens, constantly listening for God’s guidance so that they could shape the church into something the community and God desired. This resulted in a decision to reopen the church as a ministry outreach venue in the form of a café and an activity hub to be used by those residing in the township. Under the name “Connections Café,” the Greenock Uniting Church community now worships every Sunday night over a shared meal. The service takes a different form to the group’s previous Sunday morning services, and has also welcomed new people to its familyorientated worshipping group.

At Easter time, we are reminded of the pain and joy that is Easter.

We feel the sorrow and sadness of Christ’s death, but are soon uplifted with news of the resurrection. The gift of new life fills us with joy and hope in the midst of pain. The Uniting Church seeks to be “an innovative growing church proclaiming Jesus Christ, empowered by the Spirit to transform God’s world.” Just as the Greenock community has demonstrated, let us continue to transform God’s world by focussing on the joy, excitement and hope that new life can bring.

“Very truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”

(John 12:24)

Bindy Taylor

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moderator

Dr Deidre Palmer attended the groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the Adelaide Congress congregation's extension and redevelopment in mid-March. Left to right: Digging with spades specially decorated by Inawinytji; Nelson Varcoe sharing a song; Denise Champion, Deidre and Rev Dean Whittaker.

For more photos from this event, see Deidre's Facebook page: facebook.com/deidre.palmer.9

Lives shaped by relationships A number of years ago, a friend of mine questioned me about why I was still Christian after so many years! I thought of intellectual arguments I could offer, quotes from Scripture and the witness of Christian communities. All of these may have been adequate responses to the question, but for me the answer lies in the daily encounters with Jesus that I, and other Christians, experience. As Christians, we encounter the risen Jesus in prayer, in acts of justice and reconciliation, in moments of strength, vulnerability and renewal, in reading the Gospels, in finding hope, in the midst of despair, and in worshipping and participating with the community of Christ that bears his transforming love through its life.

In Jesus Christ for Today’s World, Jürgen Moltmann highlights that: “Believing in the resurrection does not just mean assenting to a dogma and noting a historical fact. It means participating in this creative act of God’s… Resurrection is not a consoling opium, soothing us with the promise of a better world in the hereafter. It is the energy for a rebirth of this life.”

What will it mean for us as a church to participate in God’s creative act of resurrection, for us to live as a people shaped by our relationship with the risen Jesus?

It would seem that a church of the risen Jesus will not be focussed on itself, but on the world, for which Jesus gave his life. Jesus was not focussed on his own survival. He spoke of giving his life: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15: 12-13) If Jesus had been focussed on his own survival he would have used his words more carefully, told safer stories and taken more care about the people with whom he associated. Jesus paid little attention to preserving his own life – his life was focussed on embodying God’s kingdom.

Fred Craddock, an inspiring teacher of preaching, was recently interviewed in The Christian Century magazine (Sunday 15 February 2015) and noted that the church has work to do: “The question is not whether the church is dying, but whether it is giving its life for the world.” As a people of the risen Christ, we are those people who are not called to worry over our own survival, but rather to freely give ourselves to embody God’s mission of hope, justice, peace and love in our neighbourhoods, state, country and world. It will be in giving ourselves for God and our neighbours that we encounter a resurrection life.

Theologian Gustavo Gutierrez notes: “The resurrection is the core of our faith and, therefore, the great model of our behavior. After Peter’s first preaching (Acts 2) focussed on the resurrection of Jesus, his listeners ask him: ‘What should we do?’

(2:37). We should always ask ourselves the same question.”

In the past year, I have had the joy of meeting people and communities of faith who are witnessing to the risen Jesus through God’s creative actions in their lives: A young person who has suffered from serious illness, and who is giving leadership, mentoring children, and bringing joy and hope to a local Christian community.

People who have experienced discrimination and abuse in their own lives generously supporting others in their journey of healing.

An intergenerational Christian community bursting with life, grown from the experience of refugees and recent arrivals to Australia.

Christ is risen! We embody his transforming, risen presence among us as we enter into God’s creative acts of life and resurrection in the world around us.

Dr Deidre Palmer

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ce o / ge n e ral se cre ta r y

Resurrection On Thursday 20 January 2000, my dad passed away after an intense battle with cancer. On that day, the life in my relationship with Dad was confined to memories. As the years have passed the memories have become more life-giving. This helps to counteract the spots of sadness when I think of what could have been. Sometimes I look at our children and think about how wonderful my dad would have been as a grandpa. Times like these reinforce the reality that a part of me yearns for my dad to still be alive here in this life. I guess his absence from my life is the sting of death that Paul alluded to in 1 Corinthians 15:55.

However, the great news of the gospel is that death is not the end of relationships and thus not the end of life. For life is realised within the theatre of relationships. We are alive through oxygen in our lungs, but we live full lives through the atmosphere of relationships. Jesus contextualised and characterised the essence of this in an exchange with an expert in the law who said: “‘Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the Law of Moses?’ Jesus replied: ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.

A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’

The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:35-40) Love is often the most difficult element to sustain in a relationship because its focus is constantly on the other. The problem is that so often the drift of our lives is fuelled by our self-interested nature. Love becomes self-seeking, self-fulfilling and selfish when a self-interested nature prevails. We all know this because, unfortunately, it is a part of all of us, and it is the dominant reason why no relationship is perfect.

The call of Jesus to love God and love those around us is dogged by the imperfections of our self-interested nature. However, we don’t have to settle for the drag of these imperfections on our relationships.

The power and work of the Holy Spirit is such that in God we can constantly shed the skin of our self-interested nature so that the relationships we share bear the fruit of God’s love through us.

This has the capacity to resurrect, restore and renew relationships on a daily basis.

The resurrection of Jesus is the immensely powerful witness to the fact that nothing, not even death, can stop the relationship in the community of the Godhead between Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Nor can death stop God resurrecting a relationship with all humanity, including you and I. Jesus is alive so that we can share in a relationship of love with him. The Creator of life willingly and selflessly invests in

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our lives through relationship. God’s unconditional love for us is real and is reflected in the reality of the most well-known of scriptures: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

(John 3:16) I am so grateful that my Dad knew the truth of these words in his life for there will come a time when our relationship is resurrected because not even death can separate us. As the Church we carry this amazing news in our hearts, in our words and through our actions. There is hope for a resurrected life for all because Jesus is alive.

Rev Nigel Rogers

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news

Farewell to Dave Uniting Church SA Graphic and Web Designer Dave Lombardi finished up in the Uniting Church SA office at the end of March.

Dave was in the role for almost two years.

Throughout his time as Graphic and Web Designer, Dave worked on many projects for individual churches and ministry centres within the Presbytery and Synod of SA. He produced logos for Freedom Uniting Church, Adelaide West Uniting Church, The Spire Community, Clayton Wesley Uniting Church and Wesley Uniting Church.

Dave also created postcard designs for churches to distribute over the Easter and Christmas period. His popular designs were distributed widely across South Australia and even interstate.

We are also extremely grateful for the amazing web design skills Dave contributed to the new Uniting Church SA and Uniting Venues websites.

Having worked alongside Dave to produce New Times each month, the editorial team appreciated his hard work ethic, creative flair, attention to detail and positive attitude – and wanted to use this short article to thank him.

Good luck, Dave!

Dave is moving to France to be with his partner where he will freelance as a graphic and web designer. He can be contacted via email: hi.davidlombardi@gmail.com

A change in leadership Following the election of Rev Prof Andrew Dutney as President of the Uniting Church in Australia, Rev Dr Steve Taylor was appointed to serve as Principal of Uniting College for Leadership & Theology for a threeyear term. Steve’s term concludes after the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly meeting in July this year. After some well-earned long service and study leave, Andrew shall return as Principal of Uniting College at the start of 2016.

Steve has served the College as Principal with great distinction in this time, through genuine innovation, change and growth. Rather than

returning to a role in missiology, Steve and his family have made the decision to relocate home to New Zealand once his placement concludes.

Steve will take on a new role as Principal of Knox (Presbyterian) Centre for Ministry and Leadership in Dunedin, New Zealand. He will begin the role in early October. Steve will continue to maintain some connection with Uniting College through postgraduate supervision.

We congratulate Steve on this wonderful appointment, and look forward to upcoming opportunities to thank him for his service to the College and the wider Uniting Church SA.

Booborowie final service On Sunday 8 March at 11am, Booborowie Uniting Church held their final service. The church opened its doors in 1891; now, 124 years later, the congregation celebrated and remembered its history before closing.

Approximately 100 people were present with current and former church worshippers from both Burra and Booborowie, including a past minister.

Worship was led by the current Booborowie minister, Rev Darren Lovell, and the service commenced with a welcome and list of apologies read out by Ian Price. Hymns sung throughout the service were chosen by the Booborowie congregation and a special message sent to the congregation by the Moderator of the Uniting Church SA, Dr Deidre Palmer, was read aloud. Jan Trengove presented a sermon reflecting on her connections with Booborowie.

Those who attended were invited to share their memories, stories and experiences of life at Booborowie Uniting Church. A history of the church was also relayed to attendees by John Arthur. Thanks were given to many of the people who had been key in supporting the life of the church in the past and more recently – organ players, people who ensured services could be held regularly, event organisers and more.

During the singing of the final hymn, “How Great Thou Art,” the church symbols were carried out and the door was officially closed. Those present then gathered for lunch in the community hall, providing attendees with more time to share stories. There was also an opportunity to view old records relating to Sunday School, Fellowship

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and the Ladies’ Guild along with other historical items.

Placements News Placements finalised since the March edition of New Times: Denise Champion (MOP) to Port Augusta Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress Congregation from 1 May 2015 Rev Kaye Colliver to Clearview Uniting Church (0.5) from 1 April 2015 Upcoming inductions: Rev Kaye Colliver, Clearview Uniting Church on Sunday 19 April at 3pm (time to be confirmed) Vacant placements: The following is the current list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Profiles available – Adare (from 1 February 2016); County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Goolwa; Kadina Wallaroo Parish (0.8); Keith “One Church” (Uniting Church and Church of Christ together); Whyalla; Willunga (0.5); Woodside (0.2).

Profiles not yet available – Berri Barmera (from 1 February 2016); Brighton (from 1 November 2015); Malvern and Unley (from March 2016); Moonta and Districts (from 1 April 2016); South West Fleurieu Linked Congregations (0.6); Tumby Bay & Districts (0.5); Walkerville (from 1 February 2016); Willunga (0.7); Windsor Gardens (0.5); Transforming Justice, Mission Resourcing (0.5) (advertised position); Covenanting Officer (0.5) (to be advertised).

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

news

The changing face of diaconal ministry Rev Christa Megaw

While kangaroo tails are cooked and smoke billows above an inner city church courtyard on a balmy summer’s evening, people gather to hear stories told by Indigenous people.

During morning worship, chairs are stacked in a haphazard pile to express sorrow over injustices experienced by the marginalised.

Encouragement is provided through Biblical stories of women and men who show their faith in Christ by listening, serving and forming new worshipping communities.

These are a few examples of the diverse and enriching experiences of deacons and deacon candidates as they congregated in Adelaide this past February. Over the course of two weeks, deacons and candidates gathered for the Deacon Intensive and the national Diakonia in the Uniting Church in Australia (DUCA) conference based at Pilgrim Uniting Church. Rev Sandy Boyce, Deacon at Pilgrim Uniting Church, is World President of Diakonia and brought updates from around the world to this conference.

Two Indigenous leaders, an Irish pastor, two Australian aged-care chaplains, a Filipino journalist and social activist, two Australian congregational leaders and an Afro-American woman formed the diverse

group of candidates who participated in the Deacon Intensive in the first week. During the course of the programme, they learnt more about diaconal ministry and the Ministry of Deacon. Candidates also participated in worship, Bible studies, discussions, and immersion visits to Yatala prison, Hope’s Café at Clayton Wesley and The Grove community garden. Evening sessions, facilitated by Rev Dr Steve Taylor, further extended their engagement with mission and community service.

During the second week, 40 deacons and deacon candidates from diverse settings around Australia participated in the DUCA conference. After a traditional Welcome to Country by Dr Alitja Rigney, an opening address presented by Rev Prof Andrew Dutney provided a catalyst for conversation about the current reality and future possibilities in the Uniting Church. During the week, panels of speakers presented on relevant issues, electives were offered, and visits were made to various sites to hear and see inspiring community engagement.

The most valuable part of the week for many was the encouragement and learning received from conversations with each other,

as deacons and candidates heard the ways in which God is working in people’s lives.

For more information about the Diakonia in the Uniting Church in Australia, please visit diakonia.uniting.com.au

Uniting Church deacons from across Australia gathered to discuss, learn and share at Pilgrim Uniting Church in Adelaide.

A fresh face The Uniting Church SA CEO/General Secretary, Rev Nigel Rogers, officially launched the new Uniting Church SA website at the March Presbytery and Synod meeting. The website was last refreshed in 2012, in a move which involved rebuilding the site to run on a modern and efficient software platform, MODX. The most recent website upgrade has capitalised on the 2012 rebuild with huge improvements made to the user interface and upgrades to the workflow. These improvements will make it possible for Uniting Church SA to offer better information to lead people to congregations.

Navigation to all parts of the site has been made simpler and faster by the integration of an improved search function, which locates content quickly based on specific words and phrases. Visually, the new

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site presents as modern and has underlying technology to provide for seamless use on mobile devices and tablets. These devices now account for over 30% of website traffic to the Uniting Church SA website.

Stage two of the website project will involve adapting the look and functionality of the sa.uca.org.au upgrade to the South Australian Congregational Website programme. The second phase will call upon up to five congregations to undergo a website overhaul as part of a pilot programme.

The new website project is part of an overall strategy to ensure the Uniting Church in South Australia is an organisation that operates united as one body with many members, proclaiming Jesus Christ and empowered by the Spirit to transform God’s world.

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Learn more at ucinvest.com.au or call 1300 274 151 4%pa on 12 month fixed term investments. Interest paid at maturity. Minimum investment is $1000. Offer available from 1 April – 31 May 2015 and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. New investments only. *Some conditions apply - offer starts 1 April 2015 and may be withdrawn without notice. Minimum investment is $1,000. UC Invest is an activity of The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.) ABN 25 068 897 781, the legal entity of the Uniting Church SA. Investment services are provided on behalf of the Uniting Church SA pursuant to ASIC Policy Statement 87 exemptions and APRA Banking Exemption No.1 of 2013 (“The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.)”). Neither UC Invest nor the Uniting Church SA are prudentially supervised

by APRA. Investments and contributions lodged with UC Invest will not benefit from the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act (1959). All products offered by UC Invest are designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the Uniting Church SA.

news

Shaping and re-shaping lives On Saturday 25 April in 1915, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers landed on Gallipoli. This year, on the same date, people across Australia will gather for Anzac Day to commemorate the contribution of all Australians and New Zealanders who served in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations and to remember the contribution of all who have served. Pat Button and Marilyn Hyde of Pilgrim Uniting Church spoke to Catherine Hoffman about the unique way they have chosen to commemorate this 100 year anniversary.

When entering Pilgrim Uniting Church you could be forgiven for not noticing the honour boards situated in the eastern porch.

A common feature in older Australian churches, these boards, which commemorate the men and women who served in past wars, can often just seem like part of the scenery.

But not to Pat Button and Marilyn Hyde.

“I have often looked at the honour boards with the names of members of the Pirie Street Methodist and Stow Congregational churches who served in World War I,” Marilyn recalls.

“I recognised some of the surnames as those of well-known South Australians, but was curious about who these individuals actually were. I decided I’d like to find out.”

Marilyn quickly enlisted the help of fellow Pilgrim attendee Pat Button who was similarly intrigued by the stories and lives of those people listed on the boards.

“More than eight months later, we have not only discovered details about them, but they have become very real people to us,” Marilyn says. “We have discovered more about the lives of these individuals and their families, and how the war affected entire communities.”

Extensive research has led Marilyn and Pat to a better understanding of the lives of these men and women. The pair sought information from family members, various history databases, church records, government documents, newspapers, letters and more to gain an understanding of the kinds of lives these people had before, during and after World War I. Of the 181 names listed on the boards, and on a Stow Congregational prayer list written during the war, there have been very few who they could find no information about.

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“We were sad to see so few women commemorated on the boards,” Pat says.

“While some women were named on the Stow Congregational board, there were no women mentioned on the Pirie Street Methodist board. We know there were many involved in supporting the war efforts in a number of ways, but we have been unable to find out much more about them due to the lack of names.”

“In reading about the lives of both the men and women we researched, the overwhelming thing I was struck by was how much most of them were involved in the community after the war,” Marilyn reflects. “Their community work and care for others has been outstanding.”

Pat and Marilyn are keen to share the information and stories they have gathered over the course of this project. They have plans to share it with the Returned and Services League (RSL) of Australia who are currently working on a “virtual war memorial” featuring the names of all service people from all wars. They also plan to share the stories with the families of those on the boards, and with the wider community.

Their records will soon be made available for viewing as summaries or in full at Pilgrim Uniting Church in Adelaide.

“We’re not trying to glorify war through this project,” Marilyn says firmly. “We just want to share the stories of the people involved in these efforts – they’re really not so different from us.”

For further information about this project, please contact the Pilgrim Uniting Church Office on 8212 3295 or office@pilgrim.org.au

Albert Francis James Dunicliff, pictured here and listed on the Pirie Street Congregational Church honour board, was amongst the youngest of those to take part in World War I. He enlisted at 14 years of age after his brother and father were killed in action. He served for nearly 16 months before revealing his age and asking to leave, stating:“I feel I cannot stand the strain much longer.” The story of Albert Dunnicliff is just one amongst many fascinating tales uncovered by Pat and Marilyn’s research.

Pat and Marilyn's research will be the basis of an exhibition at Pilgrim Uniting Church to be launched on Anzac Day prior to Pilgrim's evensong service.

For more information about these and other Uniting Church Anzac events, please turn to page 23.

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re s u r re c t i o n

Over Lent and Easter, Christians across the world reflect on the new life and hope represented by Christ’s resurrection.

We think of these on a personal level, seeing Easter as a time of renewing and deepening faith. In the Uniting Church, we are also reminded of our hopes for the lives of our churches. While many of our congregations age, we continue to see bursts of life within these communities through new projects or members, and new ways to engage in faith. This month, New Times reflects on resurrection, renewal and hope within the life of the Uniting Church in South Australia.

The significance of the resurrection Rev Dr Chris Walker

“Christ is risen. He is risen indeed.”

This is what Orthodox Christians affirm in their liturgy on Easter Sunday. Many other churches now also use that liturgical statement.

Central to the Christian faith is that Jesus was raised by God on the third day.

Note that Jesus did not raise himself. The religious and political authorities of the day were responsible for having Jesus executed.

They saw him as a threat to be done away with and as a result he was given the death penalty, which was carried out in the harshest way. Crucifixion was a deterrent to any who would defy Roman authority. Those who died in such a way were considered cursed according to Jewish understanding at the time. God, however, raised Jesus up on the first Easter Sunday. In doing this, God vindicated all Jesus stood for – his concern for outcasts, his healing of people in body and mind even on the Sabbath, his teaching and symbolic actions which gave indications of the nature of God’s reign. The early followers of Jesus affirmed “Jesus is Lord” with the clear implication “Caesar is not.”

The risen Jesus was the rightful ruler of the world and one day God’s reign would come in its fullness. Meanwhile those who recognised Jesus could come under and live by God’s rule already in the present. Jesus’ resurrection confirmed that God’s future kingdom really was breaking into the present in Jesus.

Already people could know something of

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God’s love, peace, healing and reconciliation in their lives and seek to live by it in their communities. They were indeed called by Jesus to follow him and give their lives for the furthering of God’s reign.

The resurrection of Jesus was a sign of the future. It was an indication of God’s power over the forces of evil and death. If Jesus is raised then death does not have the last word; evil does not triumph over good; cruelty does not prevail over compassion. The hoped for Messiah has come, has lived and died for us, and has been raised to be the name above all names. Jesus is Saviour and Lord, and the kingdom of God he proclaimed and inaugurated will come.

Paul speaks of the whole creation groaning (Romans 8). John looks to the coming of a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21). It is not a matter of God giving up on the old creation. Rather it will be renewed and transformed. Jesus’ resurrection is a prefigurement of the general resurrection to come. It is a harbinger of the new creation.

It provides hope to all who follow Jesus – we too can look forward to resurrection to eternal life in the fulfilled reign of God. It is important to realise that this is not some kind of non-material, non-bodily existence in a realm that is totally different from this world and this life. While it is a mystery beyond our capacity to imagine, we are given some indications in the Bible.

Resurrection is resurrection of the body.

The risen Jesus appeared mysteriously to his disciples on a number of occasions.

He was not a ghost and was recognisable as the person they knew who was crucified.

Paul speaks of the resurrection body as a “spiritual body.” The resurrection body is no longer perishable but it is our transformed body (1 Corinthians 15). The fulfilled reign of God is a transformed and renewed creation. What this involves is hard for us to conceive for it is beyond our experience.

Nevertheless, it does mean the renewal and reconciliation of all things into a realm where God rules supreme with Jesus at God’s right hand, so to speak. It will be a dynamic reality which we can confidently hope for.

Meanwhile, we are called to live by the values of God’s reign now, practicing the way of Jesus. We do so with the assistance of the Holy Spirit. Let me suggest some of the qualities we can foster as followers of Jesus: We can live a simple lifestyle. Instead of going along with our consumerist society, we can reject its emphases and wastefulness and intentionally live simply. This also will enable us to release resources for the benefit of others.

We are meant to practice real equality as followers of Jesus, which means treating everyone with equality, consideration and dignity – male or female, black or white, rich or poor.

re s u r re c t i o n

In a world so characterised by violence, we are to live by and promote non-violence.

From issues as complicated as domestic violence through to terrorism and war, we are to seek non-violent ways of dealing with conflicts. Jesus calls us to love even our enemies and pray for those who oppose us.

As Christians we are to be deep people who give attention to spirituality by giving time to such practices as prayer, meditation and scripture reading.

We are not just individual followers of Jesus but are to build one another up and be part of communities of faith seeking the common good of the wider community.

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In these and other ways we can be signs and instruments of God’s rule and followers of the way of Jesus.

Whenever the words “Christ is risen” are said may we with confidence respond with the words “He is risen indeed,” and live as people whose hope is in God who raises the dead and promises that his reign will come.

Rev Dr Chris Walker is the National Consultant with Christian Unity, Doctrine and Worship, a part of the Uniting Church in Australia Assembly.

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re s u r re c t i o n

Embracing change and resurrection Jenny Esots

In amongst the talks at the recent Adelaide Writers’ Week, I noticed a common disdain for any notion of a creator God. This very wellheeled, educated and urban audience seemed to smile condescendingly at any mention of a belief system. Some writers made references to being beyond any notion of religion. To me, the understanding seemed to be that any religion must be unthinking and obsolete, not to be given any credence.

This seemed to be the prevailing attitude until historian James Boyce came on stage and dared to broach the belief system of original sin.

He looked broadly at Western civilisation – not from a lofty stance of condemnation, but of reflective inquiry. In his book Born Bad the author pulls apart the doctrine of original sin and salvation; he discussed these ideas with the Adelaide audience and shared a reading centred on “original blessing” – finding the grace of God. Sitting in the leafy glades of the Pioneer Women’s Memorial Gardens on a mild Adelaide morning, I felt a yearning to know more about the divine and how we fit in this small pocket of human history. How do we hope to see God within the learning, writing and culture of the present time?

In considering this question, I was drawn to think about our connections with each other, and our need for friendship and love.

I do not believe our nature is inherently evil or selfish, as some doctrines, both Christian and atheist attest. Rather, I think it is our nature to be social and giving. Jesus is our guide to how God wants us to be – a radical thinker whose voice echoes across the centuries, a great healer and teacher.

While further reflecting on change and resurrection for this article, I realised that many people have their own form of resurrection in their lives. They may be rising from the ashes of a very broken relationship or marriage breakdown, a difficult and painful childhood or other trauma or perceived failing. We can find strength to renew our lives through the love and grace of God. “Elements of change,” a photography exhibition about those who risked change and a personal resurrection, is currently on view at Willunga Uniting Church’s Bethany Hall. Launched on Friday 20 February, this exhibition features transforming photography from

women affected by domestic violence – photography that inspired these women to look within themselves and that provides an outward expression of their inner lives. The exhibition also features a diverse range of photographs including some atmospheric night photography and landscape panoramas.

The photographs in the exhibition are about transformations, which reinforced my belief that Christ is found in every place and face.

We all have the ability to get through tough times and times of change, trusting in a God who never lets go of us. This is something I continue to see lived out in my life and the lives of those around me.

Entry to “Elements of change” is by donation. The exhibition is open throughout March, April and May on Saturday mornings or by appointment. Bethany Hall is located next to Willunga Uniting Church on the corner of St Jude Street and St Andrew’s Terrace, Willunga. For more information, please contact the Willunga Uniting Church Office on 8556 2650 or enquiries@willunga.unitingchurchsa.org.au

A launch and a farewell The Friday 20 February launch of the “Elements of change” exhibition at Willunga Uniting Church was the last opportunity for minister Nick Randall to share with the community before moving to a new post in Victoria. As the organiser of the exhibition, Nick thanked the many people who made the event possible. He shared music with those assembled, ending his talk with his own song, “Love Transforms.”

The gathering wished him well as he begins his new life interstate.

Following this, Onkaparinga Councillor Don Chapman spoke about the potential of the Bethany Hall facility and Willunga Uniting Church’s arts focus. He then introduced key speaker Shelley* who spoke directly of her experience with domestic violence within her 30-year marriage. This moving speech stirred many in the audience to reflect on the various aspects of change that can influence people’s lives. *last name withheld for privacy

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re s u r re c t i o n

Keeping youth engaged with faith Dr Dave Overholt hails from Hamilton, Canada where he founded the non-denominational Church on the Rock.

As lead pastor, Dave grew the congregation from a cooperative of youth groups to one of the largest youth-targeted churches in North America. Dave also leads the Youth Family department at Tyndale University College and Seminary in Canada. He has written several best-sellers, and is frequently travelling and sharing his experiences on youth ministry with a global audience.

Dave and his daughter Karra, the Youth Director at Church on the Rock, recently undertook a tour which found them presenting at different locations across Australia. On Saturday 7 March the pair presented a session titled “Building Lasting Faith” at Clovercrest Baptist Church, which was attended by over 160 people from various denominations.

Bindy Taylor shares some of their tips and insights for retaining young people in churches.

Dave Overholt is an energetic pastor with a passion for transforming the lives of young people. This passion led him to research why young people raised in the church decide to either continue in their faith or leave the church. “Haemorrhaging Faith” began as a sociological study in Canada. It was later put into an Australian context with the assistance of Dave Miers, a pastor from City on a Hill in Melbourne.

Australia and Canada are statistically similar when it comes to declining faith in teenagers.

The Haemorrhaging Faith research team interviewed 2,049 young Canadians and found that, across all denominations, seven out of 10 young people will leave the church by their late 20s. Only 2% of those who leave will return to a church with many becoming atheists or agnostic.

The research also found that the primary reason young people leave the church is transition. In particular, numbers typically drop significantly in the transition between children’s ministry and high school ministry. Dave presented three solutions to combat this drop: 1. Build anticipation. Often one youth programme will be the same as the next, and the next, and the one after that. Building anticipation in youth by using some creative thinking around different events and programmes means youth won’t get bored. Try thinking of inviting speakers who will engage the audience, or trial different games, activities or unique events. Church on the Rock have programmes that youth cannot participate in until Year 10 which builds anticipation and

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a sense of accomplishment when they are welcomed into the programme.

2. Reach down. Provide some sort of mentoring relationship.

This could be connecting your older worship service with your younger service, or buddying up an older member with a younger member to mentor them in their faith journey.

3. Staff transitions. Occasionally the youth pastor or minister is so central to the youth of the church that when the staff member leaves, the young people leave with them. This is where it becomes imperative that the youth pastor or minister encourages leaders and volunteers to get involved in every facet of youth ministry.

In addressing each of the topics and issues he presented, Dave provided practical examples and suggestions, which were elaborated on by Karra. They explored a wide range of topics relating to the central theme of building enduring faith in young people. Dave particularly highlighted the importance of involving children in church camps and retreats, a “pray first” initiative to demonstrate the power of prayer to young people, and simple methods for parents and guardians to live out their faith in practical ways that their children can easily emulate.

The attendees of “Building Lasting Faith” were well-resourced with new concepts to implement in their youth ministry programmes and their own daily family life.

Video of the “Building Lasting Faith” presentation is available on the Uniting Church SA website. Search for “Dave Overholt” at sa.uca.org.au

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magazine

Environmental water for the Murray River The Murray River is home and lifeblood to many small, rural Uniting Church communities. Mission and ministry along the river is greatly influenced by the health (or otherwise) of the river. Farmers and retirees, schoolchildren and transient fruit-pickers, and the traditional owners of the land all carefully watch the cycles of the river’s life, knowing their own livelihoods are dependent on its wellbeing. The river in good times is seen as a blessing. In bad times, it is a reminder of our brokenness. Heather Hill discusses some of the issues currently facing the River Murray.

The Murray River in South Australia has suffered from declining ecological health for decades. This decline has occurred throughout the Murray-Darling Basin as a result of river regulation through the installation of dams and locks and over-allocation of water.

The changing climate is also altering water availability patterns and increasing impacts on the whole river system. The millennium drought showed Australia the devastating outcome of a lack of water in our rivers.

The frequency and size of medium to high flows in the Murray River has greatly reduced. This means that the floodplain is not watered as often as needed to maintain and enhance the flora and fauna.

For example, river red gums, black box and lignum are dying as well as those species that rely on these trees for their survival. Early this century it was recognised that the River Murray’s ecological decline could only be reversed by returning water to the river. As a result, “buy back” and water use efficiency schemes were established.

In 2002, the Murray-Darling Basin Commission (now Authority) instigated The Living Murray Program to return 500 gigalitres of water to the River Murray and to build environmental infrastructure to deliver water to small areas of the floodplain. In 2008, in response to further scientific research and the major drought, the Commonwealth and State Governments agreed that additional water was needed to reduce the possibility of irreversible environmental decline in the Murray-Darling Basin. This led to the adoption of the Basin Plan in 2012.

The environmental water currently available for use in the Murray River is making an important contribution to the survival of species, particularly those listed as threatened, such as the southern bell frog and southern pygmy perch. Environmental water has been pumped into small, unique wetlands that support tiny native fish species, including the Murray Hardyhead – there are only a few sites left where populations of this fish survive in South Australia.

Environmental water has been delivered as a flow pulse in the channel during spring when the water begins to increase in temperature. This has enabled spawning and recruitment of golden and silver perch. There has also been successful delivery of late spring water to the Coorong to ensure that a very important aquatic food plant, Ruppia sp., can flower and fruit and begin to colonise a greater area of the South Lagoon. Ruppia provides food and habitat for birds, small fish, invertebrates and zooplankton.

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Swans and cygnets on the River Murray. Photo courtesy of Callie Nickolai.

South Australia is the home to the only estuary of the MurrayDarling Basin i.e. the Lower Lakes, Coorong and Murray Mouth.

This is a Ramsar site (a site that is recognised on the List of Wetlands of International Importance according to the Ramsar Convention) and recognised as a major world site for migratory birds. It is essential that this site receives the water it needs to support its diverse flora and fauna.

The site has freshwater lakes, estuarine channels and lagoons with water saltier than the sea. These varied habitats contribute to the immense biodiversity of the site.

Christians are called to care for our natural environment.

The River Murray and surroundings are beautiful and inspiring places where people can relax, enjoy nature and commune with God. As a community, we hope to ensure that future generations can enjoy the amazing natural world and be enriched and enlivened by its reflection of God. In past decades, the Murray River has undergone not only ecological changes, but name changes. Explorer Charles Sturt gave the Murray River its most common name. Indigenous communities along the waterway each had their own name for the life-sustaining river. In the lower river it was referred to as Murrundi, for those near Echuca in Victoria it was called Millewa, and near its source it was Indi.

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ministry centres

The working life of the Associate General Secretary Bindy Taylor

For Uniting Church SA Associate General Secretary Malcolm Wilson every day is different. He is often hot on the heels of fast-paced CEO/ General Secretary Rev Nigel Rogers, offering support and assistance when the need arises. In addition to being a back-up superstar, Malcolm is tasked with the management of the three South Australian Presbytery and Synod business and resourcing meetings. This involves oversight and coordination of the staff organising the meetings.

For those in attendance, the event presents as straightforward and seamless. Behind its slick exterior, there are weeks of work preparing programmes, running sheets, attendance lists, catering, printing, logistics, set-up and more.

Throughout the event, Malcolm ensures the programme keeps to a strict schedule. He liaises with equipment providers, caterers, tech support, musicians and associated support organisations whilst ensuring his team are supported and available to provide all of the services required.

Aside from this, Malcolm manages 1.8 million in grant money for Uniting Foundation. The 28 existing grants require monitoring and allocation with the entire process accountable to the Uniting Church Foundation Grants Committee and the Resources Committee.

Malcolm utilises marketing talents to promote Uniting Foundation, which involves advertising opportunities to make bequests and to promote donations to the fund. Uniting Foundation and its activities are essential to increasing the missional effectiveness of the Uniting Church across South Australia.

Malcolm spends a significant amount of time in meetings. He is the chairperson of The Funds Allocation Committee and the Synod Fund Raising Committee, and is a member of the Uniting College Grants Committee. Malcolm and the Secretariat team are also responsible for the preparation and compilation of reports and proposals for Standing Committee meetings. Held at least six times a year, commonly beginning on a Friday afternoon and ending late in the evening, these meetings involve the consideration, discussion and debate of a wide range of issues for the functioning and betterment of the

Presbytery and Synod. Following these meetings, the Secretariat team have the responsibility of disseminating information and ensuring decisions are implemented as a result of Standing Committee discussions and directives.

In addition, Malcolm serves on a number of other councils, boards and committees, ensuring they adhere to the legislative requirements of not only the Uniting Church Assembly but also the State Government.

Malcom regularly checks that the Uniting Church regulations, Presbytery Rules and Synod By-laws are relevant and reflective of the Uniting Church in South Australia. If he discovers something is not quite right, it is his responsibility to bring any recommended amendments to the Standing Committee for consideration and approval.

Whilst this may seem like a lot of work for a guy who is working part-time (0.8 FTE), Malcolm is ably supported by the dynamic Secretariat team.

The Secretariat team is comprised of Malcolm Wilson, part-time (0.4 FTE) Admin Assistant Chris Jaensch, full-time Receptionist Barb Dawe (see profile opposite), CEO/General Secretary Rev Nigel Rogers and his Executive Assistant, Tracey Bost, Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer and her part-time Personal Assistant, Tim Molineux, and the Communications team.

Reflections from the frontline Many members of the Uniting Church in South Australia would have met Barb Dawe at some stage. Barb has worked for the Uniting Church for 32 years, as the offset printer at 33 Pirie Street for 17 years followed by 15 years as receptionist at 212 Pirie Street. Barb shares some of her experiences below.

I have been blessed to have worked with six synod secretaries, all with God-given skills to lead the Uniting Church. Hundreds of staff have passed through the office in my time, many of whom I still have contact with.

I have had many strange phone calls – like the man from India that keeps ringing to speak to God. He asked to speak to the owner one day and I said it was God! Many of these calls are sad and some are simply hilarious requests.

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Full-time receptionist Barb Dawe is a long-serving member of the Secretariat team.

ministry centres

Managing time as Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer is currently serving in her second year of a three year placement as Moderator for the Uniting Church in South Australia.

As part of the Secretariat team, Deidre’s office is located between her Personal Assistant (PA), Tim Molineux, and the CEO/General Secretary Rev Nigel Rogers.

The Moderator works closely with her part-time PA to schedule appointments and to organise events, meetings and projects. Deidre has a very full schedule – as anyone who is her Facebook friend will be able to attest to! As the official spokesperson for the Uniting Church in SA, Deidre supports the church community in its mission and witness.

Having her PA take care of day-to-day organisational tasks allows Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer and her Personal Assistant, Deidre to spend more time in local communities where she promotes Tim Molineux, hard at work on a trip to Oodnadatta. advocacy, responds to the concerns of the Uniting Church SA Photo courtesy of Tim Molineux. community, and engages in discussions about significant issues facing society in general.

magazine

Urban Mission commissioning and discussion On the evening of Thursday 26 February, the Urban Mission Network gathered at Pilgrim Uniting Church to express their gratitude to the network’s coordinator, Christine Secombe. Christine was appointed to the role in May 2008, and was thanked for her hard work in this ministry over the past seven years. The gathering also provided an opportunity to commission new Urban Mission Network Coordinator Susan Burt in a service conducted by Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer.

Following the service, members of the network gathered for a shared meal before entering a question and answer time with Uniting Church SA CEO/General Secretary Nigel Rogers and Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer. The pair asked each other questions about their ministry, roles and personal faith. They then opened to questions from members of the Urban Mission Network. These centred on topics such as methods of resourcing local congregations and the current mission network structure.

For further information about the Urban Mission Network and its gatherings, please visit urbannetwork.org.au or contact Susan Burt on 0412 552 703 or susan@urbannetwork.org.au

Above right: Members of the Urban Mission Network gathered for supper prior to the commissioning service. Below right: Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer (left) with past and present Urban Mission Network Coordinators - Christine Secombe, Rev Dean Eland and Susan Burt.

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

Balhannah Uniting Church Nestled in the picturesque hills hamlet of Balhannah, the membership of the Balhannah Uniting Church congregation is very much “uniting” as members come from a large breadth of Christian denominations and traditions.

The Balhannah Uniting Church family gathers for worship on Sunday at 9.30am each week. Worship services are led by lay leaders who bring a wonderfully unique, personal, colloquial and relevant insight to all of the elements of worship. With the blessing of a vibrant band of seasoned musicians and singers, the congregation takes on all styles of music, from traditional to contemporary.

Deeply insightful messages are delivered by lay preachers some weeks, while the minister of the church offers an engaging conversational style of preaching in other weeks. Balhannah’s worship services are also enjoyed by other congregations across the Adelaide Hills region. To maximise the accessibility of the worship and preaching, the congregation ensures their services are captioned so that every word spoken can also be read.

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Within the congregation, there is a strong sense of welcome and family, which they aim to extend to all who visit their church or participate in church events. The congregation gathers to celebrate the love of God and to seek ways to communicate this love through their life, mission and witness. Members seek to have “Jesus’ heart” and to be “Jesus’ hands” in the world.

The Balhannah congregation runs regular events for people of all ages and genders. Amongst these are day and evening fellowships, a coffee morning in a local café, Bible study groups, various programmes for young people, “Girls’ Night Out” and “Secret Men’s Business.” Balhannah’s members are involved in “Hungry No More,” an initiative of Mt Barker Uniting Church, and offer support to the Mwandi Mission, Perth YWAM (Youth With A Mission), Compassion and HOPE International. Members of the congregation regularly meet together for tea and to share wisdom provided by some of the speakers from the “Global Leadership Summit.”

This leads to an engaging public conversation.

Balhannah is keen to support other local community organisations. The congregation has always supported the local Christian Pastoral Support Worker at Oakbank Area School. This has allowed the church to further engage with students by providing catering for the annual Year 12 valedictory breakfasts, sports days and staff appreciation morning teas. The congregation shares their facilities with the school and other community groups, in addition to facilitating pastoral services such as weddings and funerals.

Balhannah Uniting Church seeks to leave their doors wide open, hoping to reach the community through multiple facets. While they sometimes struggle to maintain families and frequently confront the familiar challenge of competing with sports and other weekend events, they continue to sow, trusting that God’s seed will fall upon good soil.

The Balhannah Uniting Church congregation proclaims their love of Jesus, seeking to express this through their welcoming nature at worship services and in the wider community.

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

Blackwood Uniting Church On the desk of one of the ministers of Blackwood Uniting Church is a large, ringed binder stuffed with notes and pieces of paper.

It sits next to the worship folder, beside the room bookings folder and the rosters, and its spine labels it “Future Directions.”

The Blackwood congregation has come to realise that the social landscape is changing, and as a result, the ways people celebrate God will likely be different from those of the past and present. In discussions over the past year, the congregation reflected on the idea of the Uniting Church as pilgrim people as outlined in the Basis of Union: “the Church is a pilgrim people, always on the way towards a promised goal; here the Church does not have a continuing city but seeks one to come.”

The congregation explored this concept by focussing on the dream, the context, and the ideas behind it.

The Blackwood Uniting Church website declares the congregation “a place to consider the possibility of God.” The Blackwood congregation sees this as both an invitation and opportunity, which is lived out through their various activities and connections in the local community.

One of the primary programmes coordinated by the congregation are

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community classes, which operate on Wednesdays and Thursdays, offering arts, crafts, exercise and adult education. Each week, over 200 people gather together over four sessions providing “friendship and fun through craft, fitness, and learning in a caring community.” However, the congregation has found that even popular programmes like these classes are being affected by the changing context of society. Under new office coordinator Jacqui Harrison, the community classes are experimenting with new and shorter courses, including “batch cooking,” photography, computer help and activities with a men’s focus.

Under the oversight of Rev Cogs Smith, Blackwood’s family ministries programmes have grown to include a weekly playgroup, Friday “Mainly Music” session and monthly “Messy Church.” Organised by a team of dedicated volunteers, these activities seek to engage with different sectors of the Blackwood community. This year, the congregation will also offer a new, occasional “Family Fun Night” to develop these relationships.

Other new initiatives include a daily email reflection during Lent, exciting events including a comedy cabaret, themed worship

services focussing on topics such as a lament for asylum seekers, and the launch of a fresh young adults group, “Cluster.”

Recently, Blackwood engaged with solar power. The church considered their environmental foot-print, in addition to the potential savings, and began fundraising for 22 solar panels in 2014. The abundant support of the community allowed the congregation to purchase 26 solar panels, which have now been installed on the church’s heritage roof.

In the last quarter, Blackwood’s electricity bill cost only a third of the amount that had been budgeted – a huge saving!

The community of Blackwood Uniting Church remains an active, socially aware and widely-engaged group of people. The church’s members find much to enjoy in their mutual friendships, involvement and service.

However, they are also aware that they cannot expect this to remain the same as wider culture changes – in terms of technology, social groupings, even the way people interact. With this knowledge, the Blackwood congregation is determined not to sit still.

They continue to seek future expressions of being the people of God in their community.

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positions vacant

Children, Youth and Families Pastor Rosefield Uniting Church is receiving applications for an energetic, high-initiative ‘people-person’ to join our ministry team as the full-time (neg.) Children, Youth and Families Pastor.

Our vision is one of building community through discipleship to Christ; growing in love of God and people, empowering for service, and leading people to faith in Christ.

The successful applicant will form a key part of our strategic plan to increase engagement, involvement and ministry with children, youth and their families in God’s mission.

Enquires & Position Description: Rev. Jock Dunbar 0410 400 940 or email minister@rosefield.org.au Please forward applications addressing the selection criteria to rosefielduniting@gmail.com Applications close 15 April 2015.

Presbytery Minister Leadership Formation Presbytery of Tasmania is seeking a Presbytery Minister Leadership Formation to work in the Presbytery Ministry Team The Presbytery’s vision is to be a community of faithful followers of Jesus The Presbytery Minister Leadership Formation will work collaboratively with the Presbytery Ministry Team and the Councils of the Church to grow healthy communities of faith and to form leaders for a missional church through: • Strategic planning in consultation with the Presbytery Standing Committee; • Coaching and mentoring communities of faith, leaders and potential leaders and • Planning and leading educational and formational events.

Enquiries can be made to the Secretary of the Placements Committee of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania at placements.secretary@victas.uca.org.au Applications close 8 May 2015.

South Woden Uniting Church Minister of the Word or Deacon First weekend for 2015 May 15-17 Weintal Resort, Tanunda.

Other weekends: June 26-28 Lyndoch Hill Retreat August 21-23 Lyndoch Hill Retreat November 6-8 Weintal Resort, Tanunda Young Married Weekend – Special focus for couples married 1-5 years July 31-August 2 Lyndoch Hill Retreat

CRAFT CO ORDINATOR Westbourne Park Uniting Church is looking for a coordinator for its Thursday Craft program. This dynamic, exciting aspect of the church’s ministry attracts around 300 people weekly from across Adelaide. The successful applicant will have proven administrative and inter-personal skills. Working with volunteers and an understanding of the Uniting Church ethos is essential.

The role requires someone for 6 hours a week and is paid at award rates.

Contact the WPUC office for details and a job and Person Specification on 8271 7066 or email wpuc@internode.on.net. Please address applications to Rev Tony Eldridge, Westbourne Park Uniting Church, 27 Sussex Terrace, Hawthorn SA 5062 Applications close Friday 10 April 2015.

p o s i t i o n s va c a n t . s a . u c a . o r g . a u 20

50 – 75% ongoing placement This Congregation of about 70 active and enthusiastic members has the following characteristics: •

We are an inclusive worshipping community and together we seek to serve God and our community.

•

We are faithful, generous, caring and supportive with a wide range of gifts and skills.

•

We choose to worship in a community hall as we have done for 40 years.

The Minister works with the Council and Congregation in a collaborative and inclusive way to lead participative and meaningful worship, encourage the inclusion and nurture of children, provide practical pastoral care and support our social justice activities.

If you would like to find out more about our engaged and interesting congregation or obtain a copy of our profile please contact David Cran, Chairperson of the Church Council on 0437 869 621 or by email at david.cran1950@gmail.com

letters to the editor

Receiving a rural call

Every month as I read the placements news, County Jervois has been on the list of vacant placements with a profile available. Last month also included Kadina, Wallaroo, Whyalla, and Keith. I wonder why no ministers within the Presbytery have yet heard God’s call to any of these rural/regional placements? It has been many years since I served in County Jervois, but I am aware of the faithful people there who would be glad of help with their ministry. I feel confident that if a suitable minister accepted a call to any of these places they would be surprised at the depth of spiritual life in the local churches. They would also enjoy the warmth of the rural or regional community as my family and I did in a number of placements. Of course there would be challenges; however, there would also be many rewards for those who are open to God’s call.

G. Graetz, Hillier

Considering intentional monastic communities

As a member of the Companions of St Benedict, an intentional nonresidential monastic community based at the Stillpoint Spirituality Centre, I was interested to read in the March edition of New Times that Elaine Heath from the Missional Wisdom Foundation in the USA has been invited to speak and run workshops at the Presbytery and Synod meeting and Uniting College on the importance of intentional monastic communities within today’s church. Personally, I find myself wondering why, if the Uniting Church considers this ministry so important, is it that Stillpoint, a Uniting Church centre dedicated to the monastic and contemplative ways of life, is not felt to have something important to offer the church and has instead been told that it is to receive no further funding? A rather unfortunate and painful mixed message to monastics and contemplatives within the Uniting Church.

M. Harvey, Eden Hills

Expressions and morals

I refer to a quote "sh-- happens" (“A safe space,” February 2015 edition) – an absolute disgrace for this comment and to have it printed is even worse. It puts everyone in the photo as suspect for the words used.

Where are our morals?

G. Campbell, Suburb not supplied Send your letters to: newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or PO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001.

Focussing on new concepts

I was dismayed by the letter form P. Harbison called “Rethinking who we are” (March 2015 edition). He paints a picture of God as dabbling in a destructive, warring way in world events. How different is this terrible understanding of God from the God of love. On the back page of the same edition of New Times, which includes the fine article on Lent by Rev George O’Neill, there is the statement: “The Spirit of God has made his home in you.”

God has made a home in everyone, initially through and in his primary revelation of creation itself even before all the years of recorded history, and this was emphasised by Jesus.

Let us have some radical 21st Century thought and theology reflecting the vast changes which have occurred in the world in our lifetime instead of P. Harbison’s long since outmoded, 19th Century concepts. No wonder many of our fellow Christians are voting with their feet.

D. Pill, Magill North

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Community Engagement Officer Playford Uniting Church is on the move.

A new “Community Space” is being established, and our desire is that this new facility will become a 7 day a week centre of life and hope, a space where our wider community encounters a new future.

This role will include the fostering of communication links between all parts of the existing community and the engagement of effective public relations with the passion, energy and determination to make a tangible difference within the Playford Community.

A full position description is available at sa.uca.org.au/uc-positionsvacant/current-positions.

Please forward applications addressing the essential and desirable skills, as well as your resume, to office@playforduc.org.au.

Applications close 5pm, April 24th 2015.

WANTED 1 or 2 copies of Uniting In Worship 1, Leader's Edition (red cover), Contact Jonathan P: 0467 683 333 E: j.button@bigpond.com

Be topical, be brief, be timely.

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

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

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Resthaven celebrates 80 years with new services in the Fleurieu As Australia emerged from the depths of the Great Depression in the 1930s, there was no government support or welfare services for frail older people. In response to great need, the 1935 Methodist Congress agreed to establish ‘Resthaven’ as a new home mission that offered ‘security, serenity and rest in life’s eventide’.

This year, Resthaven celebrates 80 years of outstanding care and support to older people and their carers. Today, Resthaven’s core values remain true. Continuing to respond to need, fully accredited support is provided for more than 8,000 older people, whether they live in their own home or in residential care.

Responding to strong demand for aged care services in the Fleurieu Peninsula, Resthaven’s eleventh residential aged care facility is soon to open at Port Elliot.

Resthaven Chief Executive Officer, Richard Hearn, says, ‘Construction is nearing completion on our $28 million purpose built, architecturally designed residential aged care facility at Port Elliot. It is looking very impressive.’

Pamela strongly believes in practising the core values of Resthaven, saying, ‘We respect and value older people, treasuring their wisdom. It is truly a privilege to be in the fortunate position to provide care and service to another.’

Pamela says, ‘For many, the thought of needing residential aged care is not something that people generally welcome. It is often unexpected and can be a time fraught with anxiety and sadness.’

‘Despite this, I frequently hear new residents and their families say they wish they had considered the move earlier!’

‘Residential care can be a rewarding and highly satisfying experience, renewing and improving the quality of life for many people.’

There are also two spacious independent retirement living units fronting North Terrace, in the local heritage zone, with their own garage and street front access.

‘We expect to commence operation at the site in late May.’ ‘Our in-home care services currently support clients in the region, and with an office base soon to open in the renovated, heritage listed, old Port Elliot school building, we hope to assist more people to live independently at home. It will be the base for our in-home care services and a wellness and activity centre.’

‘Whilst most people successfully live at home well into their 80s and 90s, there are some who will need the extra support provided in a residential aged care facility. For those who need this additional support, I am confident that Resthaven Port Elliot will offer a much needed service for people from throughout the Fleurieu and beyond.’

‘We may even have people who wish to move to the region. Already, we have had requests for transfers from some residents at our other sites, and we are looking to accommodate them where possible.’

‘As well as providing high quality care for up to 94 older people, our new facility will offer around 100 long term local jobs, mostly part time, when we reach full capacity.

This will give local employment a significant boost.

Volunteer opportunities will also be available.’

Resthaven expands in the Fleurieu Residential Care Services 3 Frederik St, Port Elliot High quality aged care and accommodation in a warm, friendly environment - opening in May. New purpose built, architecturally designed, aged care facility offering a desirable living environment.

Each room features quality fittings, an ensuite bathroom and individual climate control.

Care services take each person’s individual circumstances into consideration.

To be eligible, an assessment is required from the government Aged Care Assessment Team.

Permanently reserved rooms for short term respite.

For details and how to apply, please phone 8373 9120 or email: accommodation@resthaven.asn.au

Community Services 50 North Tce, Port Elliot

Pamela Alde, a very experienced aged care professional, has been appointed as the site manager for Resthaven Port Elliot, and is currently recruiting staff and meeting potential residents and their families.

In-home care and support services, respite for carers and health and wellbeing support for older people who live in their own home.

‘Pamela played a pivotal role in establishing Resthaven’s Mount Gambier site, which opened in July 2011. Her expertise will be of great benefit to Resthaven Port Elliot.

Pamela has an impressive academic record, teaching and researching aged care for more than a decade, as well as being an experienced site manager,’ Richard explained.

Retirement Living

Details phone: 8531 2989 e: mbhcs@resthaven.asn.au

54 North Tce, Port Elliot

Independence with peace of mind! Premium two bedroom retirement living units. Licence to occupy.

Enquiries: 8370 3756 e: retirement@resthaven.asn.au For information , visit the website: www.resthaven.asn.au

www.resthaven.asn.au

diary EXHIBITION of beautiful artworks by Hugh Adamson, Neil Griffin and John Hamilton, and photography by Mark Hewitt, will be on display until late April at The Corner Uniting Church (98 Oaklands Rd, Warradale).

Times: Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm. For further information, please phone 8350 5400.

ORGAN RECITAL. All are welcome to an organ recital with international guest organist Prof Martin Setchell as part of the Wesley Uniting Church 150 year anniversary celebrations. Sunday 12 April at 3pm at Wesley Uniting Church (cnr Fullarton Rd and Grenfell St, Kent Town). Cost: $20 per person.

For further information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au or call Belinda on 0438 988 345.

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE. Monday 13 to Friday 17 April at the Effective Living Centre (26 King William Rd, Wayville). Aboriginal contemporary arts led by Allan Sumner, a Ngarrindjeri Kaurna man, singer, songwriter, musician, producer and visual artist. He will present workshops that will provide opportunities for learning and creative expression. The programme will include: bush tucker experience, Aboriginal art tour of the Adelaide Art Gallery, cultural awareness workshop, storytelling with children, music, and a visit to Tandanya. Details at effectiveliving.org FAVOURITE HYMNS programme will be held at Mount Barker Uniting Church on Sunday 19 April at 2pm. Organ piano and the wonderful NAZMEN will feature as guest artists. Admission is free, afternoon tea to follow. Opportunity will be given to donate to Christian charities. Enquiries to Marg on 0427 734 071.

MUSICAL EVENT. The Metropolitan Male Choir of SA and Colonel Light Gardens Uniting Church are holding a pleasant Sunday afternoon of singing and music. Sunday 26 April, 2pm at 560 Goodwood Rd, Daw Park. Tickets are $12, including afternoon tea, and are available at the door or from the church office. All welcome to come along and enjoy a wonderful afternoon.

For more information, please call the office on 8276 7416 or Denise 0435 991 145, or email admin@clg.unitingchurchsa.org.au STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP. Tuesday 28 April, 10.30am at Scots Church (cnr Pultney St and North Tce, Adelaide). Speaker: Rev Liellie McLaughlin. Come early for morning tea and stay for lunch ($5). All welcome.

RETREAT DAY. Thursday 7 May at Morialta Uniting Church (26 Chapel St, Magill). A quiet day for reflection and prayer led by Rev Nicholas Rundle of Christ Church Wayville. The Leunig prayer “The Art of Acceptance” will inspire, guide and focus attendees’ thoughts on acceptance, attitude and action. All welcome. For further information, please contact Urban Mission Network Coordinator on 0412 552 703 or susan@urbannetwork.org.au

Uniting Church SA Anzac Day events and services Finniss Uniting Church will hold a 100th Anzac Day service in honour of those whose names are on the Finniss Roll of Honour on Sunday 19 April at 11.15 am at the Finniss Uniting Church to be followed by lunch. Please bring a plate of food to share. Family of those named are welcome. RSVP

by Sunday 12 April to Judith on 8536 0050 or Pauline on 0438 195 506 or pollywaffle6@bigpond.com From 10am on Sunday 26 April at Kensington Gardens Uniting Church, Colonel Donald Beard AM, RTD, ED (Ret’d) will speak about his experiences in Korea and Vietnam as “The Diggers’ Doctor” – the subject of a biography by cricketer Ashley Mallet. Many SA cricketers know Dr Beard through his long-serving role as a medical officer, his fast bowling style and as a friend of Sir Donald Bradman. All are welcome to attend.

On Anzac Day, Saturday 25 April, Pilgrim Uniting Church will hold three different Anzac events. Evensong is a special event for Anzac Day, featuring the Howells Collegium Regale Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, Ireland’s “Greater love hath no man,” and the Pilgrim Choir and organ. All are welcome to attend this event, which is free of charge. Prior to evensong, the research work undertaken by Pat Button and Marilyn Hyde (see page 9) will be the basis for an exhibition to be launched at 4.30pm. A 30 minute presentation featuring the people named on the Pilgrim honour board will be also be presented directly before the evensong event. For more information, please contact the Pilgrim Uniting Church Office on office@ pilgrim.org.au or 8212 3295.

Scots Church Adelaide will be open during the Anzac Day march on Saturday 25 April from approximately 9am to shortly after the march ends.

The church is located in the marshalling area, on the corner of Pulteney St and North Tce. If you are in the city for the march you are welcome to drop by for a quiet place to pray or rest.

Walkerville Uniting Church is commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landings with a special worship service on Saturday 25 April highlighting their pipe organ which is, itself, a war memorial. Army chaplain Rev David Prior will be the guest preacher, and the Mayor of Walkerville and representatives of the RSL will be special guests. The service will commence at 9.15am with an organ recital by Noel Tiver.

Wesley Uniting Church (cnr Fullarton Rd and Grenfell St, Kent Town) will hold an Anzac commemoration service on Sunday 19 April at 10am led by Rev Matthew Stuart (Chaplain Australian Defence Force). On Saturday 25 April at 2pm the church will hold Anzac celebrations led by the Adelaide Harmony Choir.

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

100 years at Murray Bridge On 24 January in 1915 Murray Bridge Methodist Church held their first service in what is now the Murray Bridge Uniting Church building. 100 years later, the Murray Bridge congregation celebrated their long history of worship and community.

Rev Frances Bartlett led the call to worship, welcoming approximately 300 people who travelled from far and wide to attend the event. Amongst this number were 6 of the 37 ministers who cared for the Murray Bridge congregation over the past 100 years. Also present were 39 people who had been baptised or confirmed in the church, and 59 people who had been married there.

Ken Wells related some of the history of Methodism in the Murray area, dating from a church in Swanport in 1866 and the smaller church building originally established in Murray Bridge in 1886. The current

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congregation still use the old bell from the 1866 building.

Rev Jwee Teo gave the address, reminding attendees of God’s faithfulness and the sure hope of our own resurrection at the end times (1 Corinthians 15). Prayers, a Bible reading, Methodist hymns and a children’s message also formed part of the service.

After the service, attendees reminisced and shared a delicious pooled lunch prepared by the Ladies’ Evening Fellowship. A 100th anniversary cake was cut by the oldest married couple in attendance, Bruce and Ruth Fraser celebrating 68 years.

A record of the day’s service and proceedings are available on DVD thanks to former member Murray Webb. To place an order or for more details, contact Graham or Maureen Edwards on 8532 1175, 0428 813 070 or edwardsgm1@bigpond.com

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magazine

Campers enjoying fun and faith development at KCO in 2015.

Responding to God’s great acts of kindness Christina Cook and Laura Carson

In its 36th year, KCO was just as vibrant, colorful and exciting as previous years. Around 1,100 primary school-aged children and leaders from Uniting Churches across the state gathered at the Barossa Valley Tourist Park in Nuriootpa. Around 50 groups from over 60 congregations attended KCO this year, coming from as far away as Port Pirie, Kangaroo Island, the Flinders Ranges and Naracoorte.

This year’s theme was "A-OK! (Acts Of Kindness)” with children participating in plenty of fun, themed activities in their church groups.

On Saturday afternoon campers rotated through create, play and explore sessions which enabled them to learn more about the A-OK theme in a fun way. The create session was a hive of activity with a range of crafts and face painting; the play session provided a carnivallike atmosphere with giant games, a bouncy castle, ball pits and slides, and the explore session involved team games and space for reflection on how to be kind to those in other countries, those less fortunate and those with disabilities.

The Saturday night party was a real highlight for many with performances from The Corner Drama Club and One50 Dance.

Along with these performances, the worship sessions provided strong messages about the importance of being kind to others in response to

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God’s great act of kindness in sending Jesus. Campers were reminded of how much God loves all people, and of the importance of using individual passions and gifts to serve God by being kind and inclusive to others.

On Sunday attendees were led in communion by Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer, and the A-OK message was communicated through various dramas, songs, stories and blessings as directed by the worship coordinator and KCO Band. The everpopular KCO radio was live across the weekend, guiding campers and reinforcing the A-OK theme.

The 150+ volunteer team were generous, enthusiastic and impressive in bringing the event to fruition, and were especially grateful for the wonderful goodies provided by the Barossa churches to sustain them over the weekend. It was the heart and passion of this volunteer team that enabled all to walk away from KCO 2015 with a strong understanding of God’s love and ultimate act of kindness to us.

As we contemplate Easter, let us think about what acts of kindness we may be offering to others. How we can use our gifts for the benefit of those we meet for the first time, those who need it most or those who are part of our everyday lives?

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