New Times - April May 2018

Issue 37, No 2, 2018

The voice of Uniting Church SA

April/ May 2018

Expressions of faith INSIGHTS ON ART & FAITH

MUSIC MINISTRY AT PILGRIM

What place does an image

Entering into sacred space

hold? pp. 10-11

with music pp. 14-15

Contents FEATURES KCO: a short time of warm welcome

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What place does an image hold?

10-11

Entering into sacred space with music

14-15

Man, what a meal!

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REGULAR PAGES Moderator’s comment Getting to know

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Diary 20 Letters 23 Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Communications Design: Winaya Kamaputri Print: Graphic Print Group

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New Times is the voice of Uniting Church SA. Published bi-monthly, February through December, New Times represents the breadth, diversity and vision of Uniting Church members in SA. Articles and advertising do not necessarily reflect the views of the New Times Editorial team.

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Friday 18 May Cover details: Artist Mark Pearse in his work space, encouraging Karan Hudson on the potters’ wheel. Photo taken by Rev Dieter Engler. Read more about Mark’s art, life and faith on pages 10-11 of this edition.

AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

Geoff Lewis General Manager

editorial

Modes of expression March is one my favourite months of the year. Not only does my birthday fall in the middle somewhere, it’s also a time when the city comes alive with art – comedy, theatre, music, visual arts, writing and other expressions of human experience. I saw so many shows and works that helped me to understand others’ experiences and perspectives, and heard many stories that I will carry with me over the coming months.

In the lead up to this edition, I have been thinking about the different mediums we use to express our faith. The most obvious way is through words – sermons, written messages and articles, like the ones in the following pages.

As a writer and avid reader, stories told through the written word are what I usually connect with most. They are also how I most often choose to express my own experiences. Although writing my own thoughts and feelings down can sometimes feel daunting, this mode of expression is still the one I feel most comfortable with. And because of this, I rarely branch out into other forms.

But many individuals and communities within the Uniting Church in Australia are homes to different kinds of creative faith expressions.

Many choose to express their faith through service, while others might gravitate towards visual arts, music or community action – all of which are covered in the pages of this edition.

Recently, we saw a large number of Uniting Church members join in Palm Sunday rallies to peacefully protest the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers by the Australian Government. This is another way that some people choose to express their faith.

As you read through the articles in this edition, I encourage you to think about the ways you choose to express your life and faith. Is there another mode of expression you feel called to explore? How might you connect with other expressions of faith? These are questions worth pondering, as life slows down a little after the busyness of Easter and the festival season; and they are ones I will be considering myself over the coming months.

Catherine Hoffman

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Placements News Placements finalised as of 16 March 2018 Rev Diane Bury to Marion/Warradale (0.7) from 1 June 2018.

Rev Geoff Tiller to All Saints, Plympton (0.4) from 1 May 2018.

Advertised placement positions General Secretary, Presbytery and Synod of South Australia Region Minister, Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning Team, from 1 June 2018 Region Minister/Chaplaincy Manager, Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning Team Vacant placements The following is the list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Profiles available – Barossa Congregations (0.7) (Angaston, Nuriootpa/ Tanunda, Greenock), Blackwood (from 1 July 2018, two ministry placements to total 1.4 FTE, negotiable), Burra (0.7) (from 1 February 2018), Glenunga (from 2 April 2018), Lefevre Taperoo (0.5) (from 1 June 2018), Sunset Rock (Stirling) (from 7 May 2018), Uniting Churches of Tatiara (0.8) (Bordertown, Mundulla, Buckingham), Waikerie, Woodville (from 1 July 2018).

Profiles not yet available – Adelaide West (from May 2018), Burnside City (from 1 March 2018), Burnside City (second placement), Maitland and Districts (from 1 June 2018), Malvern and Unley (from 1 June 2018), Mannum (0.3), Seacliff (from 1 August 2018), The Grove (0.3), West Lakes United (0.7) (from 1 August 2018).

Ordination and induction services Rev Beth Seaman at Dulwich Rose Park United Church on Sunday 8 April at 1.30pm (following lunch) Jesse Size at Port Augusta Uniting Church on Saturday 12 May at 2pm For more information about any of these placements, to view national placements or to find out more about upcoming services, please visit sa.uca.org.au/pastoral-relations-mission-planning/ placements-vacant-and-finalised

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c e o / g e n e ra l s e c re t a r y

Exercising ministry across the Church In December I celebrated the 35th anniversary of my ordination as a Minister of the Word in the Uniting Church in Australia. I ’ m not big on celebrations, and so whilst I acknowledged the date, there was no special recognition event.

I did, however, reflect on what this act of ordination means and where it has taken me.

As is always appropriate in the Uniting Church, my reflections started with the Basis of Union.

Paragraph 13 focuses on gifts and ministries, and makes the point that “ every member of the Church is engaged to confess the faith of Christ crucified and to be his faithful servant … all ministries have a part in the ministry of Christ. ” The ministry that I share is but one of those ministries that have a part in Jesus ’ own ministry.

Paragraph 14 provides more details, as it describes the different Ex-CEO/General Secretary Rev Nigel Rogers (left) and Interim CEO/General Secretary Rev Rob Brown at Nigel ’ s staff farewell in prescribed ministries that were recognised at the time of Union; February, 2018. ministries shared by members of the Church, shared by “ women and men called of God to preach the Gospel, to lead the people in worship, to care for the flock, to share in government and to serve those in need Now, here I am again, exercising ministry “ across the Church ” in in the world ” . this Interim CEO/General Secretary role. I am grateful for the trust My personal understanding of the ministry into which I have been of the Synod, which through the Standing Committee has appointed called – the Ministry of the Word – is summarised in a document me to this position until we find a longer term replacement for published by the Centre for Theology and Ministry within the Synod Rev Nigel Rogers. of Victoria and Tasmania. The words express the point of difference between the ordained ministry and other ministries in the Church: “ A Minister is an ordained person in the Uniting Church who is exercising a life-long calling and available to be called to exercise ministry across Rev Rob Brown the Church. ” This life-long calling is significant for me in the way it links to being Appointing a new General Secretary called “ to exercise ministry across the Church ” .

At the February 2018 meeting of the Synod Standing Committee, In these terms, I have always been of the opinion that ordained it was announced that the role of CEO/General Secretary would ministers should expect to find themselves in some very interesting places throughout their time of active ministry. For me, that has undergo a change to its title. The position is now General Secretary. meant parish ministry and school chaplaincy in South Australia, and Standing Committee also approved the General Secretary position congregational ministry in Tasmania, along with a stint in the offices of description at this meeting, and a Joint Nominating Committee the then-Synod of Tasmania and as Moderator of the same. Then came was appointed. presbytery ministry in regional Victoria and synod ministry within The position has been advertised in New Times (see page 20 of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, before returning, 19 years later, to this edition) and on the Uniting Church SA website at sa.uca.org. ministry within the Presbytery and Synod of SA. au/uc-positions-vacant/current-positions. A commencement date The challenges have been many as I have journeyed through the for the new General Secretary was set for 1 August, 2018.

Church, as have been the bonuses. So many people and so many Brief summaries of Standing Committee meetings are published experiences have helped to shape me; experiences like membership of the Assembly of the United Reformed Church in the UK in 2007 and on New Times online (sa.uca.org.au/new-times) shortly after attendance at the Coronation of King George Tupou V of Tonga in the meetings take place. These updates are also shared through 2008, to name but two! the Uniting Church SA ’ s weekly email newsletter, UC e-News (sa.uca.org.au/uc-e-news).

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m o d e rat o r

Do not be fooled: be full of life Aunty Denise Champion told me a story about the Oodnadatta track when I visited her during Lent. The Oodnadatta track is a 620km dirt road that begins at Maree, and runs through Oodnadatta to Marla. The country is very stony and dry, and looks barren and hostile. It is easy to be fooled into thinking this is wasteland.

However, underneath the Oodnadatta track lies the Great Artesian Basin – a vast underground water system that rises to the surface to form natural springs. These springs provided the living water needed by the First Peoples of the land, who journeyed this track, trading ochre. Those same springs sustained the people who built the Overland Telegraph Line and aided early Afghan camel teams.

Don ’ t be fooled. Even when life seems barren and dry, springs of lifegiving water can be found bubbling up to the surface.

In 2018, Easter Day fell on 1 April – the day we call April Fool ’ s Day. On this day, we like to play harmless jokes on one another with the teasing words, “ April Fool! ” Recently, I have been thinking of what it means to be fooled. What one person may consider foolishness, another may see very differently.

To believe the Oodnadatta track is a dry and barren land is foolish, when there is a great reservoir of water underneath it, providing lifegiving water for the journey.

However, to find those springs of fresh water, a pilgrim would need an Aboriginal guide. First Peoples carry the knowledge of where these springs are found, and the wisdom of how to care for them for future generations.

Jesus said in John ’ s gospel: “ I have come that you might have life and have it to the full. ” To find that fullness of life, disciples of Jesus also need spiritual guides along the way. We need people who can lead us to the sustaining practices of our faith that we call the spiritual disciplines. These include practices like reading the Bible, prayer, worship, serving, fasting, silence and listening, and Sabbath rest. Intentionally mentoring one another in habits like these helps bring that fullness of life in every circumstance of life.

The disciples on the first Easter morning thought the news that Jesus was alive was foolishness. They saw the empty tomb. Then Jesus appeared to them in person. They believed, and the Holy Spirit that Jesus breathed into them transformed their lives. This Spirit is like a well of living water within us, from which discipleship is sustained and by which we can witness and guide others to Jesus.

I hope your Easter weekend was a time of tapping into the well of living water that sustains your faith and service as Christians in today ’ s world. May fullness of life be with you throughout this Easter season.

Rev Sue Ellis Return to Contents

A four-day tour along the Murray River led by Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis. The Living Water tour will focus on Ngarrindjeri spirituality and discipleship, and includes a Coorong boat cruise.

The Living Water tour is geared towards Baby Boomers, but people of all ages are invited. Estimated costs (dependant on numbers) are: $450 (single accommodation) or $350 (shared accommodation). Costs include accommodation, transportation and meals.

Expressions of interest must be received by Friday 13 April.

Contact Tim Molineux on 8236 4200 or email tmolineux@sa.uca.org.au

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n ew s

Bursting with life Live Life Loud, the ecumenical youth worship evening run annually at venues across South Australia, continues to grow each year. In 2018, the event will be expanding beyond its usual regional events to include one big worship event at a later date.

The regional events will be held on different dates in June under the banner of Live Life Loud Outburst. Details for the larger event have not yet been finalised, but it will be called Live Life Loud United.

Rev Mike Wardrop, one of the organisers of Live Life Loud 2018 and a member of Mission Resourcing ’ s Intergenerational Team, is getting excited about this year ’ s events. “ Each of the Outburst events will be full to the brim with phenomenal worship, top-shelf preaching and incredible vibes, community, food and more, ” Mike promises.

The North (Playford Uniting Church), Hills (Hills Christian Community School), West (Adelaide West Uniting Church) and Eyre Peninsula (Yeelanna Uniting Church) events will take place on Friday 15 June. Two other events, North-East (Hope Valley Uniting Church) and South (Coro Uniting), will take place on Friday 29 June, while Mid-North (Horison Christian School, Balaklava) will be on Friday 22 June.

The theme for Live Life Loud this year is “ Think Small ” , which focuses on the message of Matthew 6:33-34. “ The mission of God is so exciting. It is powerful and beautiful and dynamic, but it is also huge! ” Mike says. “ Sometimes it might feel too big for us. Do we feel the burden to personally help the poor of the world see justice? Do we feel a personal responsibility to share the message of the gospel with family and friends? “ We have great dreams, but they ’ re often big ones. Thinking small can help us to work out our part in God ’ s enormous vision – our call, our act of service, our voice. ” Updates about Live Life Loud will be shared through New Times online (sa.uca.org.au/new-times) and the Uniting Church SA ’ s weekly email newsletter, UC e-News (sa.uca.org.au/uc-e-news), as it becomes available.

For more information about Live Life Loud Outburst or United, please email intergen@sa.uca.org.au

UC Invest welcomes a new era On Wednesday 24 January, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) approved UC Invest ’ s application for an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL).

For 40 years, UC Invest has provided investment services to the Uniting Church community as an activity of the Uniting Church SA. In 2017, UC Invest established a new company, Uniting Church SA Investment Fund Ltd (UCSAIF), and applied for an AFSL to run the UC Invest business on behalf of

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the Uniting Church SA. UC Invest began operating as a business within the UCSAIF from 1 April, 2018.

These changes meant that investors needed to transfer their accounts to UCSAIF prior to 31 March, 2018, in order to continue investing with UC Invest. “ Although the legal structure may be changing, it is business as usual. The service will be the same, and the same skilled people will be providing the governance oversight of UC Invest, ” explains Investment Services Manager Paul Barnett.

“ All investor accounts held in UCSAIF will continue to be financially backed by the investment resources of the Uniting Church SA. ” For more information, please contact UC Invest on 1300 274 151 or email info@ucinvest.com.au

n ew s

A short time of warm welcome The plans had been made; the campers gathered. All were excited to be part of the 40th KCO (Kids Camp Out) on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 March. Although the camp did not end up going according to plan, it was a time of fun and fellowship that will be remembered for years to come.

On the opening morning of KCO, lightning strikes and strong winds descended upon the camp location, Adare Camp and Conference Centre in Victor Harbor. The first flashes of lightening immediately alerted event organisers to enact a safety plan and cancel the event.

The KCO team, campers, leaders and volunteers were all evacuated to the nearby Adare Uniting Church, where campers safely gathered for a very special opening ceremony on the theme, “ Welcome: A Place to Belong. ” Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis opened KCO with a hearty welcome: “ We may only have a few hours, but watch and listen for Jesus coming to you. ” Ngarrindjeri man Sean Weetra (Mission Resourcing Intern) brought along his sisters, Annie and Serena, to give those gathered a beautiful Welcome to Country through song and dance. Sean sang while the women shared a blessing dance, where they ritually cleaned the ground those attending were walking on. They then led the gathered children through the Pelican dance and a song about the whale dreaming, during which campers learned the words “ Ramong ” , which is the Ngarrindjeri name of Encounter Bay, and “ Pultung ” , which is the name of Victor Harbor.

The KCO MCs, Naomi and Marcus, took campers through a few ways to practice the art of welcome in daily life, and KCO Program Director Melissa Neumann asked those present to think about what it means to create a place of welcome for others.

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The Corner Uniting Church organised a variety of activities in the afternoon and were assisted by generous volunteers.

As these activities wound down, several churches banded together to stay overnight at Adare Uniting Church and Bethany Hall in locations that were safe from any wind and rain. Many other church groups returned to their home church to stay overnight and continue the KCO experience.

The KCO event team has expressed their heartfelt thanks to The Corner Uniting Church, Adare Uniting Church, and staff from the Adare Camp and Caravan Park for assisting with alternative activities to support the various church groups as they packed up tents and campsites.

Despite the unpredictable cirumstances, the generosity and spirit of those participating in the wonderful opening ceremony and activities ensured the event was a memorable one.

A letter prepared by the KCO team and sent from Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis and Interim CEO/General Secretary Rev Rob Brown is available online at sa.uca.org.au/ uniting-church-media-releases Although many groups expressed gratitude to the KCO event team for the way the weather situation was handled, there will be some groups who may now feel upset and aggrieved by the way the event transpired. Please feel free to share any concerns or feedback with the KCO event team via email at kco@sa.uca.org.au

Caption: Children gathered for KCO 2018 on Saturday 17 March.

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n ew s

Building support for a growing community Imagine a church where the roof is higher than you could ever touch, changing at every moment, dotted with clouds or stars. Imagine a church where you can gather around a campfire for warmth. Imagine a church where the floor is packed red dirt; a church with no walls, allowing the fresh air to circulate.

Imagine a church that could change in a moment.

The roof turns to clouds, to rain, to storm. The floor becomes muddy or sends up clouds of dust. The welcoming breeze turns to a vicious wind.

The Uniting Church faith community at Oodnadatta have been worshipping in an “ open air ” church for almost 10 years. They are familiar with both the beauty and the challenges of this kind of changeable church environment.

With strong attendance by people of all ages, the Oodnadatta Faith Community are seeking to build a multi-purpose church building so they may continue to serve their members – even in extreme weather.

They have a vision of a building that can be used for worship services and for ministry to the remote community in Oodnadatta.

Draft plans are now being prepared to make this dream a reality, and members of the Uniting Church are being invited to support this vital development.

The Pilgrimage of Healing has run annually since 2011 as a part of Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), supported by Mission Resourcing, the Uniting Church SA Covenanting Committee and the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (Congress).

The project offers support for the development of Indigenous communities within the Uniting Church in South Australia, and chooses a different focus every year.

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In 2018, the Pilgrimage of Healing will focus on Oodnadatta Faith Community ’ s vision for a new church building.

There are a number of ways to provide support through the Pilgrimage of Healing: • Pray for Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (Congress) congregations and faith communities across South Australia, particularly the remote faith community at Oodnadatta.

• Contact Congress (see details below) to find out what practical or volunteer support is needed in Oodnadatta or other Congress faith communities.

• Make an EFT donation, or ongoing donations, to the Oodnadatta Building Fund to help the Oodnadatta Faith Community realise their dream of having their own church building: Account name – Oodnadatta Building Fund BSB – 704095 Account no – 193668 For more information about the Pilgrimage of Healing, please contact Mark Kickett on 0455 438 295 or mkickett@sa.uaicc.org.au or Ian Dempster on 0417 217 320 or idempster@sa.uaicc.org.au The Congress State Office has relocated to the newly redeveloped site at 312 Sir Donald Bradman Drive in Brooklyn Park. Others currently sharing this site are Uniting College for Leadership & Theology, the Adelaide Theological Library and Adelaide West Uniting Church.

leadership

Living out God ’ s mission It ’ s been a big year so far for Mark Schultz! In January, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney (Executive Officer, Mission and Leadership Development) announced that Mark would be the new Team Leader for the Mission Resourcing team, and in February he was ordained as a Minister of the Word in the Uniting Church. New Times spoke to Mark about his decision to apply and his hopes for the role.

Why did you decide to apply for the Team Leader role?

I am really excited about starting as Team Leader with Mission Resourcing. It taps into some of my previous experiences in ministry and my passion for the Church and its mission. However, it is actually quite a surprise that I find myself there!

I have been in placement at Glenunga Uniting Church for a little over four years now and in supply for a time before that. I was actually quite happy going along in that role. The congregation had grown in numbers, diversity and ministry, and we had some plans for the future that I was really keen about.

When the role of Team Leader was advertised, I ignored it at first. I just didn ’ t see the need to leave. But over time, God kept making me uncomfortable with that. So I spent time in prayer and talking with a range of people. In the end, I saw myself in that role which I still think was a God-given vision, so I agreed to accept the placement.

What is your understanding of the role of Mission Resourcing within the Uniting Church SA? One of my favourite quotes is from Tim Dearborn in the UK: “ It is not the church of God which has a mission, it is the God of mission who has a church. ” I believe that God is passionate about mission and the church. To me, the place of Mission Resourcing is to equip and enable the Church to live out that connection.

We are in a time where the Church does not occupy the same place in society as it once did. Yet, because of God, we still have every opportunity to make a Spirit-shaped difference in the people of the church and the community in which it has been placed, speaking into it, and being Christ ’ s hands and feet in making that happen.

I believe Mission Resourcing will have a crucial role in seeing that happen, not by simply doing that work, but by providing congregations and individuals with the resources to be that prophetic voice with a servant heart.

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What are your hopes for Mission Resourcing?

Mission Resourcing has been working incredibly hard for a long time on issues that really matter to the church: intergenerational ministry, adult fellowships, justice, environmental ethics, international mission, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, our Covenant with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress, spirituality and more. However, as I have connected with various people throughout the Uniting Church, they are often surprised at the breadth of the work of Mission Resourcing, even though they share some of those passions. I hope that Mission Resourcing will have more of a profile across the Church, and that ministers, deacons and lay people will all think of us first when they want to be better equipped and effective in engaging with those areas.

I also genuinely hope that as we work together with congregations in the Uniting Church, locally and nationally, and partner ecumenically, we will see the Church grow – not for its own sake, but because it is integral in that mission of God. It is a big task, but I hope that as we dream together, ask important questions and develop as the Church on the way, we will find ourselves walking together on the next leg of our pilgrimage.

Mark Schultz will begin in the role of Team Leader on Monday 16 April, 2018.

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fa i t h

What place does an image hold?

The Centre for Music, Liturgy and the Arts (CMLA) has been using the recent 40th anniversary of the Uniting Church in Australia to place a spotlight on visual arts and spirituality within the life of the Church.

Karan Hudson and Dieter Engler, who are both engaged with CMLA and its work, sat with Normanville-based artists Mark and Jill Pearse to gain insight into Mark ’ s art, faith and connection with the Church. Karan and Dieter have shared this contemplative piece as a reflection on their time with the Pearses.

Jesus crucified is an elongated seven foot tall, bifurcated carving from a single piece of grained sienna- hued stringybark. We are viewing him in Mark Pearse ’ s studio shed at Normanville. This Jesus could not have been brought to life anywhere else. He belongs ruggedly, sinuously, to this Australian place and this Australian artist. Mark tells us that as he drives around the district he is keeping an eye on pieces of wood in various paddocks. At some point he will ask the farmer if he can have a certain bough or stump.

Mark is known widely for his work as a potter, formerly of Uraidla and then at Bungala House at Yankalilla. But it is his body of lesser known work as sculptor and painter that we are exploring, as well as his life in the Uniting Church, and his partnership with artist and wife Jill.

Jill and Mark have carved out a life which reflects their approach to art and faith. The house is uncluttered, yet filled with delicious paintings by artist friends, stacks of curvaceous hand-turned pottery items, smooth wooden objects for everyday use, and clean wooden furniture, worn with use and the cares of raising a family. There is no consumer excess, following of fashion or style guide here.

There is an honesty of purpose.

We talk about the origins of Methodism and the Primitive Methodist churches and traditions. The churches stripped bare of ostentation and ornament; whitewashed walls and the possibility of an old rugged cross the only ornamentation. There are Wesleyan echoes here in this life and their work.

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Mark connects with the rich words of Charles Wesley ’ s hymns to explain his understandings of faith. He loves to sing, and is active in his local church community in leading music. Could he have been an artist in the Anglican Tradition we wonder? His background is Anglican. Mark considers this. “ The Wesleyan church abandoned art and went in for the art of the Word, ” he tells us. “ My art is to explore and make sense of the world. ” The real question seems not to be about Mark ’ s understanding of his faith. It seems, instead, to be why this striking stringybark figure of Christ is gathering dust in a shed and not on the wall of a Uniting Church somewhere in South Australia.

We talk about “slow art ” being the time it takes an artist to produce some work and the time it takes viewers to take that work in. We consider the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, which Mark and Jill viewed during their Italian sojourn early in their life together.

Does the viewing congregation have the time and appetite for “ slow art” in our churches?

In an era of digital projection, image saturation and the expectation of fast broadband speed, what place does an image hold, when it does not change? “ Oh, the Australian Manifesto is that you are either ‘at work ’ or you are ‘on holidays ’ , ” Mark says. “ The number of followers of Jesus Christ could fit on the head of a pin. ”

fa i t h

Mark Pearse and his works at his studio in Normanville, captured by Dieter Engler.

Mark has been an Elder, a Lay Preacher, a music leader with a banjo, a school chaplain and a church sign board painter, as well as a longserving member of Yankalilla Uniting Church. He has given freely of his skills and art to each congregation where he has belonged.

He has a way of gentle inclusion in his conversation and work with young people, as well as in teaching pottery. Mark ’ s skill is to draw people in to get their hands dirty with him in the production of art.

At the local school, in making murals with students around the district, his fingerprints are all over the facades of churches, schools and beach frontages. Later, he has our hands wrapped around a lump of clay on a wheel, just as part of our conversation.

Mark wants also to be provocative and tease things out: “ It ’ s me questioning me. Not satisfied with where I am. Asking, do I hold these values? I want to share something that may stimulate, antagonise and challenge. ” “ I have a fascination with the crucifixion, as a centerpiece, ” he continues. “ I want to wrap myself around why it ’ s so central. ” From a cavernous vertical store room Mark produces a series of massive painted boards. This rarely seen body of work is extraordinary.

They are Acrylics on the life of Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels.

Muscular and gritty with bold clean lines, here are the people of this district. They are famers and fishers, muscular women, tanned and deeply weathered. The familiar Fleurieu coast features in the background as Jesus heals a man born blind. Lazurus is raised under an azure sky with gum trees peeping over the shoulder of the mourners.

Jill and daughter Ruth have their places in the narratives too.

Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is a strong and stoic-looking version of their daughter. Jill gazes firmly at us in her calm, intense way out of several boards.

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Here Mark is trying to understand great moments in Scripture. He is grappling with interpretations that seem right under an Australian sun.

He has not aired this collection. “ Art is a very private business, ” he says shyly.

And yet. Mark has put it all out on board in bold colours and very confronting images.

There are more: “ Judas in the very act of hanging ” , “ Thieves on the cross ” , “ An Entry to Jerusalem ” . Finally, the completely arresting “ Slaughter of the babies by Herod ” . We are so appalled by the figures in this last painting that we are transfixed. The anguished figures of the Mothers and the implacable officials bite deeply. We cannot turn away. It is deeply and powerfully disturbing.

In the solitude of the studio Mark has a weighty wooden door covered with underpainting. It ’ s going to be a version of the Resurrected Jesus. There are holes in the outstretched and upturned hands of the figure.

Mark is worried that the door will be too heavy when it ’ s complete.

But we feel it will be exactly what it is when it ’ s complete: more honest, clean, Australian theologising in paint. Maybe a little heavy in content for some, but clear in intention and completely, uniquely South Australian.

Very Mark Pearse.

Are you an artist in the life of the Uniting Church in South Australia?

There may be an opportunity for you to share your art and faith as part of this project. For more information, please contact the Centre for Music, Liturgy and the Arts via email at admin@cmla.org.au Mark Pearse recently gifted the Synod of South Australia a lovingly crafted communion set, which was first used at the 2017 November meeting of the Presbytery and Synod.

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l eual tduere c rship

Being messy, being church

People of all ages are encouraged to take part in Messy Church.

Messy Church is a phenomenon that has taken many by surprise. Local Messy Church practitioners Jenny Carver and Judyth Roberts spoke to New Times about Messy Church, its rewards and the recent Australasian Messy Church Conference.

Created by Lucy Moore, Messy Church has a simple premise and a huge following – in the United Kingdom, where it was established, and around the world. In Australia, there are over 220 regular Messy Churches: 25 of these are based in South Australia, and 13 of these are part of the Uniting Church SA. Lucy began Messy Church by posing a simple question: How can our small church reach the many families in our community?

Focussing on the needs of families in the community, Lucy began shaping worship, learning and fellowship in new ways and eventually came up with the core idea for Messy Church. “ People say they keep hearing about Messy Church. ‘What is it? ’ , ‘Is it something our church could do? ’ and ‘Why is it so effective at connecting with families? ’ These are questions being asked of Messy Church practitioners across Australia, ” says Judyth Roberts, a member of the Uniting Church SA Intergenerational Team.

A typical Messy Church includes a flexible, relaxed arrival time, a creative learning time, a short time of worship with story, music and prayers, and finishes with a sit-down meal for all. Key values that define Messy Church are Christ-centredness, creativity and joyful celebration in a spirit of generous, inclusive hospitality for all ages.

Importantly, Messy Church was created for those outside the church, and became church for them, rather than being a stepping stone to Sunday morning services. “ Many Messy Churches are initiated by lay leaders who want to share the Gospel with grandchildren and other families in a relaxed setting, ” Judyth explains. “ One of the strengths of Messy Church is how it empowers lay leaders, and especially women, to use their experiences and skills to build a team to run Messy Church. ” A number of Uniting Church congregations across South Australia have started their own Messy Churches, which typically meet once a month.

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“ It doesn ’ t fit for every congregation, as Messy Church needs to be a response to the local community. But Messy Church is a good fit for many Uniting Churches because it is open, creative and hospitable and embodies the Uniting Church ethos, ” says Judyth.

The Australasian Messy Church conference was held in early 2018, and the 170 people gathered were given the opportunity to share stories from their own Messy Church communities and experiences.

The conference was attended by several Uniting Church SA leaders, including Jenny Carver, the Messy Church Regional Coordinator for South Australia. “ For me, the conference reinforced the need for Messy Churches to show God ’ s amazing and abundant love, not only through the meal, but with our attitude of hospitality across all aspects of Messy Church, ” Jenny says.

For more information about Messy Church, please visit sa.uca.org.au/ intergen/church-resources/messychurch or contact the Intergenerational Team on 8236 4246.

Messy together The Uniting Church SA Intergenerational Team will be co-hosting Messy Together SA, a South Australian Messy Church Conference, on Saturday 2 June.

This event will provide an opportunity for people to learn more about how Messy Church might work in their church setting, to celebrate existing Messy Churches in SA, and to share insights from the 2018 Australasian Messy Church Conference.

Messy Together SA is being co-hosted by the Uniting Church, Lutheran Church and Salvation Army in SA. For more information about Messy Together SA, please contact the Intergenerational Team on 8236 4246 or email intergen@sa.uca.org.au

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Entering into sacred space with music Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. – Colossians 3:16-17.

Throughout the Bible, there are many instances of the people of God joining together in song and praise. Today, music continues to play an important role in the worship, faith and community-building of the Christian church.

Pilgrim Uniting Church has one of the strongest music ministries in South Australia. Its musical events, programs and groups provide an opportunity to connect with church members, musicians and the wider community in unique ways. “ We have a very rich and diverse music contribution in and through Pilgrim Uniting Church, ” says Rev Sandy Boyce, who serves as one of the ministers at Pilgrim alongside Rev Dr Greg Elsdon. “ I know of a number of people who call Pilgrim ‘home ’ in part because of the quality of the music – from choral ‘high church ’ music to thoughtful music with lyrics that reflect a contemporary experience of the human journey and matters of importance for the world and the reign of God. “ All are welcome to share in our music ministry through participation in one of our groups, attendance at events, or coming along to our Sunday services. ” These seven musical offerings are just some of the ways Uniting Church members and the community can share in song and worship through Pilgrim ’ s ministry.

1. The Choir of Pilgrim Church The large choir at Pilgrim Uniting Church has a long history of performing liturgical and sacred music to a high standard. A significant number of the choir ’ s 40 members are from the vocal school at the University of Adelaide ’ s Elder Conservatorium of Music, while others are professional singers and members of the Pilgrim community.

From 26 December 2017 to 11 January 2018, the Choir of Pilgrim Church toured cathedrals in England. The group was invited to sing evensong at Lincoln Cathedral, Durham Cathedral, Ripon Cathedral, York Minster, Gloucester Cathedral, Winchester Cathedral, Salisbury

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Cathedral, Wells Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral Oxford, and Worcester Cathedral.

The choir offers a number of scholarships for talented choristers who provide leadership in the choir. These scholarships help to support younger musicians in their studies and to attract new members.

The songs performed by the choir and organists are wide in scope – ranging from traditional evensong to modern choral music. They commission new pieces and regularly sing anthems, carols and other sacred music by contemporary composers, including pieces written by members of the choir.

The Choir of Pilgrim Church takes part in the 11am service each Sunday morning at Pilgrim Uniting Church, accompanied by the church ’ s organ, and has a particularly prominent role in services over Christmas and Easter. “ I watch people from my ‘position ’ at the front of the church while they listen to music – many are deep in contemplation, and some with eyes shut. It is a way of encountering the divine in church where music transports people to deep places of contemplation, ” says Sandy. “ For many people, it is music, not words, that carries them into the presence of God. ” For more information about the Choir of Pilgrim Church, please visit facebook.com/pilgrimorganandchoir or contact Choir Director Peter Kelsall on 0409 092 593.

2. Evensong services The Choir of Pilgrim Church holds several Evensong events each year around key calendar dates, such as Remembrance Day, Anzac Day and All Souls ’ Day. In 2018, the choir began a series of special evensong services held on the third Saturday of each month. The first of these was held on Saturday 17 March, and upcoming events will take place on Saturday 21 April and Saturday 19 May from 5-6pm at Pilgrim Uniting Church. “ It is interesting to note that, contrary to the perception of many people, young people are not adverse to more traditional forms of music, such as evensong. Indeed, in the UK, there is a surge of young people attending evensong services, even though British church attendance overall continues to decline, ” Sandy explains. “ Our Saturday night evensong services are popular among people of all ages. ”

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3. Music on Flinders Music on Flinders is an initiative that has been running at the church for several years, and is continuing in 2018 under the guidance of vocalist Kathy Pike (pictured above right with other members of the Music on Flinders team).

Music on Flinders is run during lunch time (12.30-1pm) on Monday each week during the warmer months – from February to May, and from October to December.

It is held on the forecourt at Pilgrim Uniting Church and draws an audience from workers passing by during their lunch breaks. It is held outside as a way of extending ministry to and engagement with the wider community.

Recognised by the Adelaide City Council, Music on Flinders includes a wide variety of music styles and features input from a number of talented local musicians. It is free to attend.

For more information about Music on Flinders, please visit facebook.com/musiconflinders

4. Mid-week recitals Pilgrim Uniting Church hosts recitals and performances weekly during Thursday lunch time. These events are also free and offer another point of connection for local workers, as well as for students from the Elder Conservatorium of Music.

Singer Phoebe Paine coordinates performances of vocal and instrumental students from the Elder Conservatorium on the first, third and fifth Thursday of each month, beginning at 1pm. These lunch time events provide an opportunity for students to practise their craft in a performance space and connect with Pilgrim Uniting Church.

Peter Kelsall coordinates an organ recital program that is held on the second and fourth Thursday of every month, from 1-1.30pm. Pilgrim Uniting Church is home to the largest pipe organ in South Australia, as well as a continuo (chamber) organ, which was made specifically for the church through the generosity of the Jones family.

5. Collaboration with Recitals SA Recitals Australia and Pilgrim Uniting Church host a series of recitals during Wednesday lunch times each week. High calibre musicians are invited to play at these 40-minute concerts. There are two sessions held most Wednesdays – one starting at 12.10pm and another at 1.10pm.

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There is a small entry fee of $5 for these events, which includes both performances. Season tickets are also available.

For more information about the Wednesday lunch hour series, please visit recitalsaustralia.org.au/whats-on/lunch-hour-series

6. New music The church community who meets weekly on Sundays at 9.30am at Pilgrim Uniting Church continues to offer new hymns and music, and includes a number of talented musicians and wordsmiths.

In 2016, Rev Don Bell and Dr Maarten Ryder released a book of new songs titled Hymns for Times and Seasons. The music and words within this book concentrate on Biblical stories and messages, and follow the seasons of the church. An article in the August/September 2016 edition of New Times focussed on the ideas behind Hymns for Times and Seasons.

Norm Inglis and Helen Wiltshire have collaborated on worship songs in the printed collection, Here ’ s a New Day. In November 2013, they were awarded for their song “ The Gift That All May Give ” at the Australian Hymn Book ’ s first international hymn competition. It was chosen above 100 other entrants to win in its category.

The Pilgrim website has links to new music and words by members of the Pilgrim community, which are freely available to download and use.

The 9.30am community also offers a music scholarship for younger musicians, which was most recently awarded to Genevieve Bassani.

For more information, please visit pilgrim.org.au or contact the Pilgrim Uniting Church Office on 8212 3295.

7. Organ recitals with international guests For many years, Pilgrim Uniting Church has coordinated recitals from renowned international organists. These events draw crowds from across the Uniting Church and the wider community.

In 2018, Pilgrim Uniting Church will welcome two outstanding organists for a special, one-off event. Olivier Latry and Shin-Young Lee will perform at Pilgrim Uniting Church on Wednesday 18 April at 7.30pm.

For more information about the upcoming event with Olivier Latry and Shin-Young Lee, please visit facebook.com/pilgrimorganandchoir or contact the Pilgrim Uniting Church Office on 8212 3295.

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Man, what a meal!

Cooking is something of an art form – one that many people struggle to master. An initiative at Dernancourt Uniting Church aims to help men over the age of 50 who lack confidence in the kitchen.

Man What a Meal is a free, five-week cooking and healthy eating program for men, supported through a grant provided by the Office of Ageing, Grants for Seniors. The first program was run in February 2018, and at least two others are planned for the coming months.

Man What a Meal was created by Lisa Atwell, a member of Dernancourt Uniting Church, who identified a need amongst older men in the local community. “ I am a dietitian, so have run these sorts of programs in the past in a work capacity, ” Lisa explains. “ But this time, I decided apply for a grant, run the program in my own time, and help some of the men to develop some skills and confidence. ” Many older men have never had the opportunity to learn about health, nutrition or cooking. This can become a problem as some men age, particularly if their wives or other family members are no longer able to cook for them. It can be easy for men to turn to unhealthy options, such as takeaway food or microwave dinners, when they are unsure of how to cook a meal for themselves.

Man What a Meal will help to battle this issue for the men who participate in the program in 2018. “ We had 11 men participating in the first program (pictured above), and they have all grown in confidence with their cooking skills. So far I think the men have been most proud of their lasagne-making, ” Lisa shares.

Each week of the program has a focus or theme to help men to learn about healthy eating and nutrition. This includes guidance on how to read food labels and how to modify recipes to make them healthier. At

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least three different dishes – often more – are cooked each week. These have covered stir fry and rice dishes, lasagne and pasta, egg-based dishes, and healthy sweets. “ We finish each week by sharing together over the food we have prepared. We discuss our favourite dishes and begin planning for the next week, ” Lisa says.

The men who attend are drawn from the Dernancourt Uniting Church congregation, other local churches and denominations, and the wider community. They are each encouraged to try cooking one of the recipes they have learnt at home during the week. “ Participants have reported back that their families are enjoying their cooking, and it is obvious from the friendly banter in the kitchen that they have also developed some friendships through attending the program, ” says Lisa. “ They are all relishing the opportunity to get in the kitchen and cook up a storm! ” The second Man What a Meal will run on Saturdays, 10am12.30pm, from 21 April to 19 May. This program has already drawn interest from a number of local men, but there are still several spots open. Expressions of interest are also being accepted for the July program. “ We ’ ve seen how Man What a Meal has had a positive impact on the lives of the men who have participated – and we ’ d love to share this more widely! ” Lisa encourages. “ If other churches are interested in doing something similar, I am more than happy to share my session plans and resources. ” For more information about the upcoming Man What a Meal programs, or to access associated plans and resources, please contact Lisa Atwell on 0400 790 438 or email lisaatwell80@gmail.com

l eual tduere c rship

Older people thriving at Walkerville Participants sharing memories and photographs through My Life Story, a program run by Walkerville Uniting Church.

Even in old age, they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. – Psalm 92:14 Ageing and wellness have been a focus for many Uniting Church communities in recent months. In 2017, the Board of Resthaven Incorporated generously donated $250,000 to the SA Synod to offer as grants for churches and mission networks to support positive ageing.

Walkerville Uniting Church successfully applied for a grant to fund a comprehensive series of events and programs to be run throughout 2018 with the motto “ Don ’ t just survive: thrive with age ” .

Nearly 50% of the population of Walkerville are over 55 years of age, with a particularly high number of people who identify as Baby Boomers. Many other suburbs in the area show similar figures.

Walkerville Uniting Church saw the opportunity to consider programs that would engage community members in a fun, informative and celebratory way and encourage the ageing to remain fit and healthy mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.

The intention of the programs on offer at Walkerville Uniting Church is to encourage open exploration and dialogue as people transition through the various stages of the ageing process, and to offer support that enables them to thrive, rather than just survive.

My Life Story was the first program from Walkerville ’ s ageing and wellness series to take place. Held over three Friday morning sessions, participants were each given the opportunity to tell their life story through photographs, which were then made into professionally bound booklets. These are valuable resources for older people, helping them to share their stories with family and friends, and assisting them with private reflection.

Events are being held throughout April, May and June, each with a different focus. Some of these are one-off events, while others will run across several sessions. Gravity Fighters is also being held weekly on Tuesdays, 10.30am-11.30am, to help older people learn simple chair exercises to keep the body energised.

All the programs are facilitated by professionals whose values and beliefs are strongly tied to the Christian faith.

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At the end of the Thrive with Age series, all those who have taken part in the programs will be invited to a special event to celebrate the lives of members of the Walkerville community and to give thanks for a life well lived.

For more information about programs being run though the Thrive with Age series, please visit walkerville.unitingchurch. org.au or contact the Church Office on 8342 5875 or admin@walkerville.unitingchurch.org.au

Introducing Creative Ageing and Spirituality Created under the guidance of the Urban Mission Network, Creative Ageing and Spirituality is a new initiative aimed at empowering people in their 60s and older to find ways of fostering spirituality, skills, gifts and identity.

Creative Ageing and Spirituality will host events, training, conversations and activities around ageing and wellness, and will provide a platform to share existing resources and events. They have already formed connections with Walkerville Uniting Church ’ s ageing and wellness programs.

The first event for Creative Ageing and Spirituality will be held on Thursday 12 April from 11.30am-2.30pm. Titled Seniors with Style, this event will provide an opportunity for older members of the community to explore identity, fashion and meaningful ageing through the style and stories of the 60s and 70s. It will be held on the University of Adelaide lawns opposite Scots Uniting Church on North Terrace in Adelaide.

An in-depth article about Creative Ageing and Spirituality will be featured in the June/July 2018 edition of New Times. For more information about the initiative or the event, please visit creativeageingsa.org.au or contact Ken Burt on 0455 830 292 or seniorswithstyle@creativeageingsa.org.au

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It all started with a pumpkin seed Bindy Taylor

Nigel Pratt found a packet of pumpkin seeds in his belongings when he was unpacking moving boxes after relocating to Hawker. He had purchased a bunch of seeds for a family in need at his previous home in Northern Australia.

A keen gardener, Nigel attempted to grow at least one giant pumpkin from the seeds. The result was a 15kg pumpkin, which he shared with the community at Hawker Uniting Church where he had become a valued member.

To make the gathering a bit of fun, the church turned the event into a party, organising some children ’ s activities and pumpkin-inspired food to share. Nigel's large pumpkin was divided up and given to families to consume. Families also took some seeds so the party could be replicated the following year.

In the following months, Hawker Uniting Church had a growing desire to share the pumpkin party with the wider community. They wanted to promote their church as earthy, fun and very welcoming.

They came up with The Great Pumpkin Party, an event which will be held on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 June this year. “ We want people in the community to know that Hawker Uniting Church is a welcoming, giving and friendly community that they can drop into at any time, ” explains Stef Teague, one of the key organisers of The Great Pumpkin Party. “ People may go through a situation in their lives where they hit a bit of a rough patch. What the church offers is true fellowship and compassion. We want people to know that if life gets a bit tough we are here. ” As well as being a point of connection for the community, The Great Pumpkin Party aims to be an exciting event.

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It will start at 5pm on Saturday 2 June at the Hawker Institute, where a three-course meal will be served. The evening will also include live music, pumpkin-based competitions and prizes, and entertainment for the whole family. “ Get planting your pumpkins now! We ’ ll have a lot of different competitions for people who bring along their pumpkins, ” says Stef.

The Great Pumpkin Party will continue at 10am on Sunday 3 June as members of the community are invited to visit Hawker Uniting Church for worship and a buffet lunch.

Music will be provided by Jacinda Jansen and Timothy Davey over both days of the event, and Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis will be the keynote speaker. “ Besides offering a point of connection, we hope to use this event to demonstrate the way the Uniting Church community cares for those in need, ” Stef explains. “ We will set up donation bins on behalf of Foodbank SA to gather donations of pumpkins and non-perishable items on the Saturday and Sunday. A terrific outcome would be to see those donation bins overflowing! “ We want this event to be one that is happy, wholesome and uplifting. We just want people to remember that the church is here and it is good. ” The Great Pumpkin Party will operate over two huge pumpkinfilled days. For more information or to volunteer for this event, visit facebook.com/hawkerunitingchurch or contact Nigel on 045 858 1353 or hawkerunitingchurch@gmail.com. Tickets for the Saturday night of the event can be purchased online at hawker-pumpkin-party.eventbrite.com.au

g e t t i n g t o k n ow

Mitcham Hills Uniting Church Exciting things are happening at Mitcham Hills Uniting Church! This new church plant was officially recognised as a faith community in the Uniting Church at a Standing Committee meeting in December 2017, and held its opening service in March 2018. New Times spoke to Merryn Bailey (pictured above left), a member of the Mitcham Hills Uniting Church core team, about church planting and the vision for the new faith community.

Why plant a new church?

Good question! A group of us have felt called for a while to start a new church that is a place for people who are currently outside of church to explore who Jesus is and what God is doing in the world. Our hope and prayer is that people will encounter Jesus and grow to become disciples who in time make more disciples.

Why was the community of Mitcham Hills chosen for this plant?

All of us involved with starting the church live in and around the Mitcham Hills area, so I guess our main motivation is keeping Sunday morning petrol costs down! No, seriously, for me personally, I have a lot of friends who live in the area who haven ’ t connected with church for a long time, so with them and others in mind we ’ ve started the church in the Mitcham Hills area.

What is the vision behind Mitcham Hills Uniting Church?

Our vision is to be a place where people who may not have been involved with church recently, or ever, can come and explore the Christian faith and find meaningful community. We have had a strong focus from the start on being accessible for people who have not been entrenched in church life, and on presenting the truth of the gospel in ways that each individual can understand and engage with.

We are working hard on providing generous hospitality and meaningful community, as well as worship and biblical preaching that relates to everyday life. Our vision is to be a church that is constantly trying to focus our time and attention beyond ourselves, and especially on the needs of the Mitcham Hills community and the other worlds we are already in.

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How is the formation going?

Over the past couple of months we ’ ve been specifically praying, planning and preparing. We ’ ve also had a number of new people join our team. We all sensed that there was some momentum building and so we had our first open gathering on Sunday 4 March, which was sooner than we anticipated.

We believe God has called people with different gifts, ages, perspectives and spheres of influence to our team and we are excited to see what God will do over the coming months and years.

The core team are meeting regularly to pray and prepare, and each Sunday we are meeting together from 10am until around 12pm.

Through community time, preaching, singing, prayer and reading the Bible, we are aiming to create a relaxed environment where people, wherever they are at, can find community and meaningful relationships, and be inspired and transformed through a personal encounter with Jesus.

What are you most excited about as this plant progresses and as the church grows?

The most exciting thing that any of us can dream of – and the reason we are part of this plant and the Uniting Church – is to see someone who feels far from God come close to God. In the core team, we are all passionate about seeing more people come to know Jesus and become like him. We hope this new church is an encouragement to other churches and leads to more new churches starting.

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diary SENIORS WITH STYLE. Thursday 12 April, 11.30am-2.30pm.

University lawns on North Terrace, Adelaide (opposite Scots Church Adelaide). This event will explore identity and social change in the 1960s and 70s through the lens of fashion. It has been coordinated by Creative Ageing and Spirituality and supported by Splash Adelaide.

The event will feature displays of photos and other memorabilia, live music, food and drink, a fashion show, and much more! For more information, please visit creativeageingsa.org.au or contact Ken on 0455 830 292.

DEATH CAFÉ. Friday 13 April, 10am-12noon. Walkerville Uniting Church. Explore life and death issues and concerns over coffee and cake with the support of a qualified facilitator. Cost: $5. Morning tea provided. For more information, please contact Rhonda on 8342 5875 or email admin@walkerville.unitingchurch.org.au WATCHMEN SCHOOL OF INTERCESSION FOUNDATION COURSE. Friday 13 to Saturday 14 April, 7-9.30pm (Friday) and 9am-4pm (Saturday). Booleroo Centre Uniting Church. The Watchmen School of Intercession ’ s foundation-level course will be presented by Pastor Matthew Bolte, Australian Prayer Network Field Director, over six sessions. The course is free, although an offering will be collected. For more information, please contact Janet on 0400 091 250 or email janet.ashby@live.com CHURCH FAIR. Saturday 14 April, 8am-2pm. Murray Bridge Uniting Church. The Murray Bridge Uniting Church Fair will have stalls for homemade sweets and pickles, plants, and more, as well as activities for children. A barbecue, strawberries and ice cream, and Devonshire tea will also be available to purchase.

MAN WHAT A MEAL. Starts Saturday 21 April, 10am-12.30pm.

Dernancourt Uniting Church. A free, five-week cooking and healthy eating program for men over 50. Read more on page 16 of this edition.

SEEDS OF HOPE IN TROUBLED TIMES. Friday 27 to Sunday 29 April. Nunyara, Belair. Seeds of Hope in Troubled Times is the name of several retreats and open conversations led by Margaret Silf. The retreat at Nunyara will run from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 April, with open conversations being held at the same location on Saturday 28 April. A second retreat will also be held at Sevenhill Centre of Ignatian Spirituality from Monday 30 April to Wednesday 2 May. For more information about any of these events, please contact Stillpoint on 8271 0329 or email stillpoint@internode.on.net OPEN CHURCH WEEKEND. Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 April, 10am-4pm. Newland Memorial Uniting Church, Victor Harbor.

Newland Memorial Uniting Church will be open during the 2018 History Trust ’ s Built Environment Weekend. There will be a selfguided tour brochure available that will highlight distinctive features of the building and the history of the worshipping congregation that has praised God there since 1927. For more information, please contact Alison on 8552 7306 or email roy@uniting.com.au LIVE, AGE, THRIVE: YOU ARE NOT DONE YET. Fridays from 4-25 May, 10am-12noon. Walkerville Uniting Church. This series will help attendees to explore and understand the many transitions in life and look forward to the future with hope and optimism. Run on Friday mornings over four weeks, this series will focus on thriving in the later years of life and will include input from Susan Johnson, a professional counsellor and facilitator. Cost: $25. Refreshments provided. For more information, please contact Rhonda on 8342 5875 or email admin@walkerville.unitingchurch.org.au GLS+ FOR MINISTRY LEADERS. Monday 7 May, 9am-4.30pm.

Seeds Uniting Church. GLS+ 2018 with Carey Nieuwhof live is a one-day conference for church leaders and teams passionate about healthy, effective and sustainable ministry. Popular author, blogger and pastor Carey Nieuwhof will visit Seeds Uniting Church in person for this special event. Student and group rates are available. For more information, please visit willowcreek.org.au/gls-plus-2018 or contact Sarah on 8370 6472.

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ORDINATION SERVICE. Saturday 12 May, 2pm. Port Augusta Uniting Church. Jesse Size will be ordained at this special service with input from Uniting Church SA Moderator Rev Sue Ellis and entertainment provided by Dusty Feet Mob. 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS. Sunday 27 May, 10am2pm. Dernancourt Uniting Church. In May, Dernancourt Uniting Church will celebrate 50 years of worship and service to the community. All present and former worshippers are invited to the anniversary worship service with guest preacher Rev Rod Dyson.

Following the service will be a catered lunch provided by the church to continue the celebration. For catering purposes, please indicate your intention to attend to the Church Office on 8369 0802 or email office@dernancourt.ucasa.org.au THE GREAT PUMPKIN PARTY. Saturday 2 to Sunday 3 June.

The Hawker Institute and Hawker Uniting Church. A two-day event with pumpkins, music, food and fun! Read more on page 18 of this edition.

Diary events are submitted online and featured on the Uniting Church SA website (sa.uca.org.au), in UC e-News and in New Times (deadline permitting). To submit your event please visit sa.uca.org.au/events/submit-an-event

classifieds RESTORE your phonographic records or tape to near original quality & preserve them on CD Restore your faded 35mm slides to bright colour and preserve them on DVD. Ask us about VHS or MiniDVD video tape & 8mm film to DVD conversion, SA MEDIAWORKS, Kent Town SA Ph: 8362 2251 samediworks@soundtrack.net.au MORIALTA CHARITABLE TRUST FUND Morialta Charitable Trust Fund has been supporting disadvantaged children, young people and their families in South Australia through its annual program of distributions for 40 years.To enable the Fund to continue this support through community organisations in South Australia, Morialta Charitable Trust Fund seeks donations from the public.Donations of $2- and above are tax deductible and can be forwarded to the Morialta Charitable Trust Fund at PO Box 92, Crafers SA 5152.

GRAVE BUSINESS 2.0: Navigating the final journey Revised and expanded, this publication is packed with resource material for arranging and conducting funeral services. It is the complete funeral service manual for both clergy and celebrants seeking material to complement the traditional church liturgies, as well as for the non religious. It also includes several contemporary hymns suitable for a funeral service and is peppered with humour and wisdom. Copies available from Jacob ’ s Well (41 Roberts Street, Horsham 3400), phone/fax (03) 5382 3769, jacobswell41@bigpond.com at a RRP of $20.00 plus $5.00 p.p. positionsvacant.sa.uca.org.au

PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Presbytery Minister Education and Training The Presbytery of WA is seeking to appoint a person to join the newly forming Education Team whose purpose is to achieve “a culture in which formation for discipleship and leadership is prized, appreciated and accessible and seeks to build an informed and integrated learning community directed to the mission of God.�

The successful applicant will have proven ability in adult education and vocational training, a commitment to education for discipleship and formation for missional leadership, the ability to enthuse others and to communicate within a wide range of contexts. This full time position will take a lead role in the development of VET education for lay ministries and congregational leaders within the Presbytery.

To see the Position Description and Selection Criteria go to unitingchurchwa. org.au/careers/ministry-vacancies/ Applications with resume to be sent to mark.illingworth@wa.uca.org.au by 27 April.

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letters to the editor

Making ministry connections in the south

The recent article regarding ministry developments in the Noarlunga area was great to read (New Times, December 2017 / January 2018 edition). The southern suburbs are an exciting area.

It is even more exciting to be in ministry on the southern side of the river. According to local government information, the Seaford area, which is also in the Onkaparinga Council, is the fastest growing residential area in the state.

Our congregation is one of the four that make up the Christian community at the Seaford Ecumenical Mission. For over twenty years we have worked to be a Christian presence in the Seaford area.

Following the generous actions of the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide who purchased the Uniting Church share after it was put up for sale, and a new lease with the Health Department, we now face a future filled with possibility.

We offer the best stocked op-shop in the area, an emergency assistance program, a café, youth group and many other community based program.

We look forward to working with Rev Douglas Monaghan and the people of the Noarlunga Parish.

Seaford Uniting / Churches of Christ Council, Seaford

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

reviews

Back to the Bible Film: Paul, Apostle of Christ Director: Andrew Hyatt Recommended for: People interested in the early church and exploring the context in which Paul spoke.

In short: A film about the apostle Paul ’ s last days in a Roman prison awaiting execution by Emperor Nero.

Available: In select cinemas from 29 March, 2018.

In March, I had the privilege of attending a preview screening of the film Paul, Apostle of Christ. This is one of a number of faith-based films being screened widely this year – both Mary Magdalene and I Can Only Imagine are two other recent releases.

While Paul has a slow start, and I wouldn ’ t recommend it for pure entertainment value, it does open up the world of the early church in Rome during the last days of Paul ’ s life.

With the Empire under the rule of the tyrannical Nero, Rome is not a safe place for Christians. Paul, played by James Faulkner (pictured above left), is in chains, and visited by Luke (Jim Cavaziel, above right) who wishes to capture his story in what would become the book of Acts.

Paul ’ s Godly wisdom, found elsewhere in New Testament letters, is expressed in his conversations throughout the story, placing them in their context. It struck me in a fresh way that this was not wisdom shared with fellow Christians in a peaceful situation like our own.

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Paul ’ s words on love recorded in 1 Corinthians 13, for example, are placed here in the context of a potential Christian uprising to take revenge on the Romans. This is a reading that many people use today for weddings and anniversaries. But while this passage beautifully fits the context of a wedding, it takes on a whole new meaning when arguing for a peaceful response to violent persecution, as depicted in this film.

I believe we should make the most of any films, books or other teachings that may enhance our understanding of the Bible and how it might apply to our lives. The great thing about films like Paul is that, while fiction, they draw us back to the source material of the Bible.

Matthew Carratt

23

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The new U City building emerging on the corner of Pitt and Franklin Streets in the city, has gained official status as the city’s most environmentally sustainable building design.

It is predicted to use 45 percent less energy and 30 percent less water than a comparable new building.

According to the Green Building Council of Australia, U City represents ‘World Leadership’ in sustainable design and is SA’s highest rating ever with 84.9 out of a possible 100 Green Star points.

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