New Times - August 2015

Issue 34, No 7, 2015

The voice of Uniting Church SA

August 2015

Diversity TRAVELLING NORTH

ASYLUM SEEKER POLICY

The life and ministry of

The 14th Triennial Assembly

Stuart McMillan

adopts a new asylum seeker policy

pp. 12-13

p. 24

Wesley Uniting Church - Kent Town

Contents

Sunday 9 August 2015 @ 10.00am

FEATURES Installation message inspires

6

Hearing from the Royal Commission

8

Travelling north Assembly adopts asylum seeker policy

12-13

Guest preacher ~ Rev Dr Keith Garner Superintendent/CEO of Wesley Mission, Sydney

150th Service of Thanksgiving

24

REGULAR PAGES Moderator ’ s comment

4

CEO/General Secretary ’ s comment

5

Getting to know...

19

Letters 20 Diary 21 Editor: Catherine Hoffman Editor-in-Chief: Bindy Taylor Advertising: Communications Design: Winaya Kamaputri 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. newtimesad@sa.uca.org.au

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

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

Next issue: Service John 15:13 says, “There is no greater love than to lay down one ’ s life for one ’ s friends. ” One of the ways we lay down our lives is through service. In the Uniting Church, we have many opportunities to serve in big and small ways – through demonstrations of kindness, responsibilities within congregations, contributions to social justice efforts, or support for UnitingCare organisations. Acts of service connect us with others, and help us to express God ’ s love in the world.

DEADLINE FOR SEPTEMBER 2015 Wednesday 12 August

a copy of the book The House of God - The Gate of Heaven The Wesleyan Jubilee Church at Kent Town 1865 - 2015

by Dr Marlene Edwards is available for purchase

www.wesleykenttown.org.au

Annual Lecture Leadership, Lifestyle & The Book of Acts Wednesday 26th August, 7.00pm - 8.30pm Flinders University City Campus (Room 1, Level 1, 182 Victoria Square Adelaide 5000)

Cost: FREE RSVP 19th August 2015 Phone: (08) 8416 8400 Email: college.divinity@flinders.edu.au

Professor Steve Walton

Professor Steve Walton is a professional Research Fellow in New Testament at St Marys University and Research Fellow at Cambridge University. Steve is an expert on the Book of Acts.

Cover details

This month ’ s cover photo was taken just after people dispersed from a gathering to oppose the forced closure of remote Aboriginal communities at the 14th Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia (more on page 17). The small group of people who lingered outside of the University of Western Australia ’ s Withrop Hall provide a snapshot of the diversity encompassed by the Uniting Church.

editorial

Growing up different When I found out I was going to be writing the editorial piece on diversity, I thought, ‘great, I ’ m a multicultural person, this shouldn ’ t be too hard. ’ But a week later, when I actually sat down to begin writing it, I wasn ’ t sure where to start.

Diversity is a loaded word. There is cultural diversity, racial diversity, religious, socio-economic, lingual – the list is endless. To me, the common thread is difference.

People often tiptoe around the discussion of diversity. They are worried about offending others, saying the ‘wrong thing ’ , or being politically incorrect. For these reasons, people shy away from discussing diversity. But it shouldn ’ t be a difficult topic to discuss, and for me, it is part of who I am.

I was born in Adelaide to a Singaporean father and a Scottish mother. While my multiethnicity comes with many perks – multiple citizenships, travel opportunities and eternally tanned skin – at times, particularly throughout my childhood, it was a source of turmoil.

When you are a child, especially in school, the last thing you want to be is different. You want nothing more than to fit in and be accepted.

Comments about how you ‘look different, ’ stereotyping and harmless ‘jokes ’ instill doubt and are disheartening.

But while the comments of children can be put down to naïvety, you may be surprised by the number of adults who believe it is okay to make offensive comments. My diverse look has gone as far as to cause a curious, but well-meaning stranger to ask my mother what country I had been adopted from.

It has taken me the better part of my 20 years to be comfortable with my diversity. Not only have I now come to accept it, I am proud of it.

My diversity is part of my identity and makes me unique.

The fact of the matter is that diversity affects every person in one way or another, and, as such, I believe acceptance is the only way forward.

The importance of acceptance is emphasised many times throughout the scriptures.

In Mark 22, when Jesus was asked which the greatest commandments of the law were, he responded, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind, ” and “Love your neighbour as yourself. ” These teachings call upon all people, Christian or otherwise, to practice acceptance towards those who differ from ‘the norm ’ whether it be through race, skin colour, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation.

Therefore, as Romans 15:7 states, I encourage you to “welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. ”

Suzanne Leong-Scott

Return to Contents

Editor ’ s note: Thanks to Suzanne, our New Times Intern, for stepping up to write the editorial this month. The rest of the editorial team was busily covering the 14th Triennial Assembly. We are thankful to Suzanne for writing such a great piece!

Placements News Placements finalised since the July edition of New Times: Rev Naomi Duke to Goolwa from 1 January 2016 Vacant placements: The following is the current list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Advertised – State Development and Outreach Officer (0.5 FTE).

Profiles available – Ascot Community Church (0.8); Brighton (from 1 November 2015); County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Kadina Wallaroo Parish (0.8); Kalparrin and Murraylands Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (0.5); Keith “One Church ” Uniting Church and Church of Christ); Prospect Road; Salisbury (from 1 January 2016); Walkerville (from 1 February 2016); Whyalla.

Profiles not yet available – Berri Barmera (from 1 February 2016); Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations; Malvern and Unley (from March 2016); Moonta and Districts (from 1 April 2016); Parafield Gardens (from 1 January 2016); South West Fleurieu Linked Congregations (0.6); Tumby Bay and Districts (0.5); Windsor Gardens (0.5); 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

3

moderator

With hearts on fire

Left to right: Deaconess Martha Yamsiu Kaluatman from the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu, Dr Deidre Palmer, and Rev Maleta Rumaroti from Kiribati Uniting Church.

At the time of writing this, the 14th Triennial Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia has just concluded. Over the past week in Perth, Uniting Church members from across the country joined together in Christian community and engaged with reports from various Assembly task groups and committees. We shared respectful, passionate conversations with one another about the challenges and opportunities before us as a church. We listened to the voice of the Spirit, discerning the ways God is calling us to participate in God ’ s mission in the world.

In this national gathering, the diversity of the Uniting Church was clearly seen – diversity in culture, language, age, theological perspective and social location. In this diversity, we experienced growth in Christian discipleship and a deepening of our Christian community.

The theme of the Assembly over the next Triennium is “Hearts on Fire ” . At the Assembly meeting, our Bible studies focussed on the story of the Road to Emmaus in Luke ’ s Gospel, and the transformation that takes place in the disciples when the Risen Christ comes alongside them. In our small group, we spoke of the ways Christ has transformed our lives personally and communally. We spoke of the ways Christ has empowered the Uniting Church to live courageously as God ’ s hopeful and compassionate people.

Over the course of the meeting, we considered, and decided to take action over, situations in Australia and around the world. Many of these included situations where there has been much pain and suffering.

We heard from Justice Peter McClellan about the Royal Commission on Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. We confessed and lamented where abuse has taken place in and through the Church. We committed to creating spaces of healing and safety.

4

We adopted “Shelter from the Storm ” , a new Assembly policy on our treatment of asylum seekers and refugees. This policy affirms acts of hospitality that support people seeking asylum and refuge in our country.

We discussed issues around our finances and the ways we may resource ministry in remote communities.

We heard from the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) about the challenges and opportunities faced in preserving, growing and celebrating language and culture. We stood in solidarity with the UAICC to oppose the forced closure of Aboriginal communities.

We heard from our partner churches in Asia, Africa and the Pacific. I was particularly moved by the words of Deaconess Martha Kaluatman from the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu. She spoke about her ministry – raising up women and girls as leaders, and providing them with education and leadership development. Martha is also working with communities to address domestic violence and its effects.

Through all the discussions and decision-making, I noticed many signs of the transformative power of Christ. At this Assembly meeting, we came together as God ’ s covenant community and committed ourselves to being God ’ s passionate people with “Hearts on Fire ” for the Gospel of Christ, embodied in the world. May God continue to kindle the flame of love and hope in our hearts.

Dr Deidre Palmer

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

The difficulty of diversity A clear reflection of the beauty of Christ ’ s church is found within its diversity. The extravagance of Christ ’ s love is poured out to all people.

Therefore, those who respond in kind to this love will naturally form a diverse and varied collective of people.

This diversity was evident at the 14th Triennial Assembly. There are often various expressions as to why the Uniting Church is diverse; however, I was reminded at the Assembly meeting that the loving Lordship of Christ is what best facilitates our diversity.

Diversity can be difficult. At times there will not be collective agreement on various issues that confront the church. In the Uniting Church there is diversity in the way in which scripture is interpreted.

There is also a vast difference in the experiences that people have had within the life of the Church. Furthermore, people in the church hold on to various traditions that inform their perspective of how the people of God should be. Added to all this are various angles of reasoning that emerge in complex conversations in the life of the church, especially around social and ethical matters. Finding a position of unity within the midst of this diversity is obviously a significant challenge.

The love of Christ provides the strongest base for unity in the Church. It is not a soft love that tolerates everything. The love of Christ compels unity that has at its core a willingness to confess to another that whilst I don ’ t agree with you, I remain committed to you in every way possible. This is when the love of Christ is at its strongest and clearest.

The love of Christ is unconditional. Therefore, as this love is incarnated within the life of the Church, it will find its strongest expression between those who do not agree on certain issues. It is usually easier to get along with like-minded people. However, when we strengthen our commitment to supporting those who see things differently to ourselves, we unify the diversity around what the Church is charged with doing – engaging people with the transforming love of Christ.

The moment our attempts at unity in diversity stop the love of Christ being shared unconditionally is the moment we begin floundering as a church. It saddens me to say that I have been a part of this at times.

One of the joys of being CEO/General Secretary is that I experience a great deal of the Church ’ s diversity.

The complexity of our diversity ensures that it can get more airplay than that which unites us. Perhaps it ’ s time for the love of Christ – that which unites us – to get more attention within the life of the church and through the people of God engaging with our world.

Rev Nigel Rogers

In this edition The 14th Triennial Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia was held in Perth from Sunday 12 to Saturday 18 July.

The discussions that took place at this meeting, and the decisions made by Assembly, have a huge impact on the Uniting Church in its entirety – its congregations and faith communities, its church councils and individual members.

This edition of New Times provides some highlights on some of the topics addressed at the recent Assembly meeting.

Coverage of all items addressed by the 14th Triennial Assembly can be found at assembly2015.uca.org.au The Uniting Church SA Communications team will continue to highlight Assembly matters in future editions of New Times and via Across (sa.uca.org.au/across).

Return to Contents

5

d ive r s i t y

Nowhere is the diversity of the Uniting Church in Australia more clearly expressed than at its triennial Assembly meetings. This edition provides informative articles about the decisions and presentations made at the 14th Triennial Assembly, demonstrating the diversity of opinions, culture, backgrounds and ages of people within the Uniting Church.

Installation message inspires At the opening of the 14th Triennial Assembly on Sunday 12 July, the Uniting Church in Australia installed Stuart McMillan as President for the next three years. People of all ages and from a diverse array of cultural and linguistic backgrounds joined together at the installation service to welcome Stuart into his new role.

Wearing elements of traditional Yolngu dress, Stuart was led to the stage by members of an Arnhem Land choir as they performed dance and song – marks of his time working for the Church in the Northern Territory (read more about Stuart ’ s life and ministry on pages 12-13).

The service intentionally embraced intergenerational and multicultural aspects, mirroring Stuart ’ s passion for the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) and an inclusive Uniting Church community.

Celebrating 30 years since the formation of the UAICC, as well as 30 years since the Uniting Church declared itself a multicultural church, the Bible readings were read in four different languages – Tongan, Korean, Yolngu and Greek.

Children and young people were also invited to contribute through messages and song.

A number of international and ecumenical guests, as well as people of other faiths, were present at the service.

In his installation message, Stuart spoke about the importance of diversity within the Church.

“Bala limurr roŋyirr ŋorraŋgitjlil, ” he began, quoting a phrase taught to him by Rev Dr Djiniyini Gondarra.

This message, interpreted as ‘Let us return to the white ash of the fire ’ , was the central concept in Stuart ’ s address, tying in with the Assembly theme ‘Heart ’ s on Fire ’ .

“If you know fire, you will know that with some kindling and a little blowing, from the white ash will come forth new flame, and fire will burst into life, ” he said.

Stuart encouraged the Church to think of the concept of ‘unity in diversity ’ as a gift of grace. He also spoke about compassion and acts of justice compelled by Christ ’ s love.

“Our church does amazing things to help those most disadvantaged and often marginalised in our society. And friends, in

adversity, when we come together as the body of Christ, for the sake of the least, God does amazing things! ” Towards the end of the installation service, attendees were invited to light candles and share the flame with one another. The dimmed hall filled with small spots of light, with a Christ candle on stage burning most brightly. Stuart extinguished this candle, and the crowd watched as the smoke grew thinner and spread further.

“The light has changed – you can change your light too. I invite you to blow out your candle and allow the light to fill the room, ” he said. “It is no longer in one place at one time.

Now the light is all around us. Now the light is everywhere. ” To read President Stuart McMillan ’ s full installation message, please visit assembly2015. uca.org.au/go-and-bear-fruit-presidentstuart-mcmillan For more information about other leadership changes, including details about the announcement of new President-Elect Dr Deidre Palmer, please see pages 9 and 15.

Newly installed President Stuart McMillan extinguishes the Christ candle.

The Arnhem Land choir performs at Stuart ’ s installation service.

One of the members of the children ’ s choir who performed at the service, steps forward to light the Christ candle.

6

d ive r s i t y

The church we are called to be Nigel Tapp and Catherine Hoffman

In his moving retiring address, ex-President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney spoke joyfully of the direction of the Uniting Church in Australia into the future, receiving a standing ovation from members of the 14th Triennial Assembly. His three year term as President concluded on Sunday 12 July.

“Although I ’ ve spent the last 33 years researching, writing and teaching about the Uniting Church ’ s history and theology, in the last three years the people and communities I have met, the places I ’ ve been, the challenges that have been put before me, have come together as a unique opportunity to really know you – the Uniting Church in Australia – in all your depth and diversity, ” Andrew said.

While he acknowledged the ageing and decline in mainstream, largely monocultural congregations, Andrew reminded the Assembly that this is only part of the story.

“It really concerns me that the traditional mainstream of the church is so mesmerised by its own decline that it can ’ t lift its eyes to see the wonderful thing that the Spirit is doing in gathering the church afresh – from the edges. ” He believes that God is calling the Uniting Church to a vibrant and diverse ministry. The covenant between the Uniting Church and the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian

Congress is a vital part of this, which is continuing to shape the church.

“God is calling us to be a church which is culturally and linguistically diverse at its core – not essentially British with add-ons from other cultures, ” he said.

In the global south, the church is in steady growth. Andrew feels this is an inspiring movement, where Uniting Church partnerships are building meaningful relationships that have been established over many years in the Pacific, Asia and Africa.

“Personally, I ’ ve begun a ‘fast ’ from the theological books from the global north, ” he said. “I ’ m trying to allow my imagination to be nourished instead by the theology drawn from the life of the church in the global south. ” Andrew further encouraged the Church to embrace its diversity and aim for true reconciliation.

“God is calling us to be a church which receives its diversity as the precious gift of the Holy Spirit that it is; a foretaste, sign and instrument ‘that reconciliation and renewal which is the end in view for the whole creation ’ , ” he said, quoting paragraph three of the Basis of Union.

“Reconciliation doesn ’ t mean everyone being the same. It doesn ’ t mean one version

of being human or being Christian replacing all the others. It means people and groups that are different and divided from each other being brought together in Christ to respect, value, trust and serve one another – in all our annoying, embarrassing, frustrating, frightening diversity.

“That ’ s profoundly challenging. It ’ s sharply counter-cultural. But it is the kind of church God is calling us to be. ” Andrew concluded by sharing his thanks and gratitude to the many people who have supported him throughout his three year presidency. He thanked his friends, his varied resource staff within the Uniting Church, and his wife, Heather.

“Thank you for giving me the privilege of seeing for myself that the Holy Spirit is already making us into the church God calls us to be, ” he said.

“I turn to the next phase of my ministry encouraged and energised by the wonderful movement for reconciliation and renewal that the Spirit of God has drawn us into. ” Rev Michelle Cook and Rev Ian Price, members of the Assembly Standing Committee, thanked Andrew for his inclusive sense of community, creativity, courage and character.

Having concluded his role as President, Andrew will return to his position as Principal of Uniting College for Leadership & Theology in early 2016.

To read Rev Prof Andrew Dutney ’ s full Retiring President ’ s Report, please visit andrewfdutney.wordpress.com

Ex-President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney gives his retiring address.

Return to Contents

7

d ive r s i t y

Hearing from the Royal Commission Nigel Tapp

The power of institutions must never again be allowed to silence a child nor must it be allowed to diminish the preparedness or capacity of adults to act to protect children.

That was one of the key messages delivered by the Chair of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Justice Peter McClellan, to the 14th Triennial Assembly of the Uniting Church on Wednesday 15 July.

Justice McClellan, speaking to a hushed gathering, said he was sure that all hoped the tragic personal stories and institutional failures revealed by the Commission ’ s public hearings to date would serve as an important reminder that both individual institutions and governments had failed in their responsibility for children.

“Where once silence was demanded, a child ’ s complaint, however tentative in its communication, must be heard and given an appropriate response, ” he said.

He said that the Royal Commission has, so far, received 13,256 allegations within its terms of reference and, of these, 399 were in respect of abuse by members of Uniting Church institutions. This figure represents about three per cent of the total figure.

A further 106 allegations have been received in respect of abuse by members of Presbyterian Church institutions, and 62 in respect of abuse by members of Methodist Church institutions. The majority of these relate to incidents prior to 1977.

Of the 399 allegations against members

of Uniting Church institutions, 173 relate to institutions involved in out-of-home care, and a further 164 relate to boarding schools.

The Uniting Church institution with the highest number of allegations is Sydney ’ s Knox Grammar School with 137 allegations.

Knox was the subject of a public hearing of the Royal Commission in February 2015.

In total, the Commission has received allegations in relation to 132 institutions which were Uniting Church, Presbyterian or Methodist institutions.

Justice McClellan confirmed that the Commission would conclude at the end of 2016, and was still averaging about 50 applications per week for private sessions.

He said the only opportunity for justice for many victims will be through an appropriate redress scheme. The Commission ’ s report on redress and civil litigation will be handed to the Federal Government in August this year.

“For redress to be effective it must respond to the ongoing needs of survivors. It is clear that survivors need an apology from the institution. There must also be funding for counselling and psychological care. A monetary sum which adequately recognises the wrong done to the individual is also essential, ” Justice McClellan said.

Justice McClellan said a monetary payment could serve the dual purposes of recognising the harm suffered by the survivor, and providing financial assistance to the many people who, as a result of their abuse, are struggling to secure the basics of life.

Justice Peter McClellan addresses members of the 14th Assembly.

He said almost all institutions and survivor groups favoured a national scheme, administered by the Commonwealth, but funded by the relevant institutions, including the various governments where institutional failures have occurred.

Justice McClellan noted that when the Commission ’ s work is completed it will obviously have documented a period in Australian society when institutions failed the children in their care.

“Although the primary responsibility for the sexual abuse of an individual lies with the abuser and the institution of which they were part, we cannot avoid the conclusion that the problems faced by many people who have been abused are the responsibility of our entire society. ” To read Justice McClellan ’ s full speech, please visit assembly2015.uca.org.au

Royal Commission proposal passes Rohan Salmond The Assembly Standing Committee has been authorised to make changes to regulations in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

Members of the Uniting Church ’ s National Task Group on Engagement with the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse presented their own report following Justice McClellan ’ s address.

“The Commission has been both necessary and helpful for Australia,

8

and necessary and helpful for the Church, ” said Rev Allan Thompson, the Executive Officer of the task group.

He added that there has been an increase in awareness of incidences of abuse as a result of the Commission. Churches have also been forced to learn from the past to improve the safety of children in the care of the Church into the future.

Dr Deidre Palmer spoke to the report and highlighted some of the ways the Uniting Church had failed to adequately respond to Continued at the bottom of page 9.

d ive r s i t y

President-Elect announced Nigel Tapp

Following a ballot on Thursday 16 July, the Assembly has elected South Australian Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer as the next President of the Uniting Church in Australia.

Deidre is the second woman to be appointed to the role, following Dr Jill Tabart (1994-1997). She will begin her term at the 15th Triennial Assembly in 2018.

Nominated by the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Deidre has spent much of her career studying, teaching and working in Christian education, and in youth and children ’ s ministry. She has also been a counsellor with the Uniting Communities childhood sexual abuse counselling team.

She has been involved in coordinating numerous campaigns and events as Moderator, including Beyond Violence, a campaign relating to issues of domestic violence, and Around the Table, a forum event for young people in the Uniting Church SA. She is also coordinating the 2016 UnitingWomen conference in Adelaide.

Deidre has previously served on several Assembly Committees, including the Uniting Education Reference Group, the Board of Coolamon College, the Assembly Commission for Mission, National Mission and Evangelism, and the Assembly Commission for Liturgy.

Currently, she is a member of the Assembly Standing Committee, the Formation, Education and Discipleship Working Group, the National Task Group responding to the Royal Commission on Institutional

President-elect Dr Deidre Palmer with the Uniting Church ’ s first female President, Dr Jill Tabart, who served from 1994-1997.

Responses to Childhood Sexual Abuse, the Church Polity Reference Committee, and the Assembly Business Committee.

She will conclude her role as Moderator with the South Australian Synod in October 2016.

After Deidre ’ s new role was announced at the Assembly meeting, she addressed the gathered members, thanking them for entrusting her with the responsibility of leading the Uniting Church.

“It gives me great pleasure to be serving you as President-Elect, ” she said.

accusations of child sexual abuse. These included inadequate or nonexistent record keeping, a lack of consistency within and between synods, and inaccurate policies and protocols.

The need for apologies and a redress scheme, as well as ongoing training and “Working with Children ” checks, were addressed.

The task group also presented a proposal, “Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse – Regulation Changes ” , which would allow the Assembly Standing Committee to change Uniting Church regulations to implement effective Return to Contents

“I promise to listen to the Holy Spirit, and allow myself to be shaped and empowered by the Spirit. ” Dr Palmer also paid tribute to Dr Jill Tabart.

“It is an honour for me to walk in her footsteps. ” Deidre has also been appointed as the Chairperson of UnitingJustice from 20152018. Her term will conclude at the next meeting of the Assembly.

policies and practices in response to the recommendations of the Royal Commission.

“We need to be able to stand ready if changes to regulations are necessary to respond to the Commission, ” explained Allan.

The proposal was passed by consensus. As the session concluded, Deidre led the assembled members in a litany of confession and lament over the child sexual abuse that took place in the Uniting Church.

To read the full report and proposal, please visit assembly2015.uca.org.au

9

d ive r s i t y

Leaders from international partner churches, including Rev Dr Lin Manhong (left), speaking at a series of UnitingWorld lunches.

International church partners provide insight Bindy Taylor and Nigel Tapp

Over the course of the 14th Triennial Assembly, leaders from a number of the Uniting Church ’ s partner churches in Asia, Africa and the Pacific shared their experiences. They told stories and answered questions at three UnitingWorld lunches, contributed to group discussions and were given the opportunity to visit cultural sites around Perth.

Rev Dr Lin Manhong, the Associate General Secretary of the China Christian Council delivered the Cato Lecture on Thursday 16 July. She spoke about the history of the Christian church in China, and its positions on the margins of Chinese culture.

Despite the church ’ s recent, rapid growth, Lin identified the marginalisation of the church in China as a blessing.

She said the significance of a church being small and marginal meant that it helped it re-read the gospels from a perspective of marginality instead of from a centrist point of view.

“It reminds us that we are called to be the marginal people of God because Jesus Christ was the pioneer of the marginal people of God. ” Lin concluded by talking about the importance of the church engaging with the world, particularly through social services. She said that the China Christian

Return to Contents

Council could learn about social service significantly through the Uniting Church and UnitingCare.

The following morning, on Friday 17 July, organisations from a number of partner churches addressed the Assembly.

The Presiding Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu, Pastor Allen Nafuki thanked the Uniting Church and UnitingWorld for their continued support and partnership in the wake of Cyclone Pam. Allen said UnitingWorld had raised $600,000 in donations after the category 5 cyclone hit Vanuatu and surrounding islands in March earlier this year. He said the money assisted with the re-roofing of homes, schools, churches and other buildings. This work would have taken two months without the support of the Uniting Church – instead it took three weeks.

Rev Amos Ndhlumbi, the Presiding Bishop from the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe brought greetings from his country and thanked the Uniting Church for bringing him to the Assembly meeting.

He acknowledged that many churches throughout the world are struggling, including his own church, and identified that many of the items being discussed at Assembly will also be discussed at his church ’ s meeting at the end of August.

Bishop P.K. Samantaroy from the Church of North India commended UnitingWorld and the Uniting Church for encouraging the exploration of new ways to witness Christ in a multicultural context. He expressed his thankfulness for the Church ’ s contribution to India, particularly in the work of human trafficking prevention and childhood education. He also said that he valued prayers from the Uniting Church and asked for continued prayer between the partner churches to further build the body of Christ.

Rev James Bhagwan from the Methodist Church in Fiji brought thanks to the Uniting Church from over 300 islands across the Pacific. He thanked the gathered members for support in capacity-building for churches of the Pacific – not only with words, but by providing assistance with gender-based violence and child protection.

James brought with him greetings and love from the Methodist Church in Fiji which has had a relationship with the Uniting Church since 1855. He expressed his appreciation for the Church ’ s support in times of political instability and oppression.

In closing, a statement of thanks prepared by partner churches was read in unison.

For more information about the Cato Lecture and UnitingWorld lunches, please visit assembly2015.uca.org.au

11

d ive r s i t y

Photo courtesy of Louisa Sams.

Travelling north On Sunday 12 July, Stuart McMillan was commissioned as president of the Uniting Church—only the third lay person to ever hold the position. Matt Pulford writes about Stuart ’ s life, ministry and work.

Stuart McMillan says he had a really good first week working for the Uniting Church in the Northern Territory. But the way that week started wasn ’ t promising.

Six weeks after being interviewed in Sydney for an accountant position at the Uniting Church Northern Synod, Stuart found himself standing alone with his swag on the edge of a dirt airstrip at Ramingining. No one got the message that he was coming. No one knew who he was, and more practically, no one was there to pick him up. So he hitched a ride into the community with some locals.

The year was 1982. Stuart was 27 years old.

He and his wife Ros, a behavioural scientist, made the significant decision to leave

12

their comfortable community in Sydney ’ s suburban northwest to move to Darwin with their young family. Stuart and Ros had known for some time that they wanted to do something in their lives to make a difference in the world and to live up to their shared Christian faith.

Call of the north Stuart remembers feeling a deep concern for Australia ’ s First Peoples from when he was in primary school in the 1960s. By the early 1980s Stuart and Ros were active in social justice issues at the former Chester St Congregational Church in Epping, and keenly followed news about Aboriginal land rights

that would filter through from Darwin via Rev Jim Downing. From time-to-time, Jim would send telegrams to his friends down south, urging them to advocate for various Aboriginal causes to their local members of parliament. After consideration and discernment, Stuart and Ros ’ opportunity came when they spotted the Northern Synod ’ s job ad in the newspaper one Saturday.

Six weeks later, as he stepped off that deserted airstrip in the middle of Arnhem Land, Stuart began to live out his lifelong passion, and form his personal ‘covenant ’ – to use the modern Uniting Church expression – with the First Peoples of Australia.

“Things went well, ” says Stuart, despite

d ive r s i t y

the initial logistical challenges. “My job was to work with Aboriginal bookkeepers so that we had a summary of monthly information for various businesses and operations. I learnt a lot that first week about the capacity of Aboriginal people to do things. Everything was in great shape. These people really knew what they were doing, and I ’ d been led to believe anecdotally that wasn ’ t the case. They were as good as any bookkeeper that ever worked for me in Sydney. ” Learning from the best In the 33 years since, Stuart has had many roles – accountant, operations manager, general manager, pastor, cultural awareness trainer, resource worker, community developer and moderator of the Northern Synod. As of Sunday 12 July 2015, Stuart can now add president of the Uniting Church in Australia to that list. He is only the third lay person to serve as Uniting Church president; Sir Ronald Wilson and Dr Jill Tabart were the others. His path to the presidency has been uniquely informed by the lives of Australia ’ s First Peoples, particularly the Aboriginal people of northern Australia and members of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.

“My life has been so deeply enriched by Aboriginal people sharing their spirituality with me. I have been shaped by Aboriginal mentors. They have strengthened and shaped my faith, ” says Stuart.

Rev Dr Djiniyini Gondarra OAM, the first Aboriginal moderator of the Northern Synod (1985-87); Vince Ross, chair of Congress Elders Council and Rev Rronang Garrawurra, past Congress chairperson have all mentored Stuart.

Communication is key Stuart ’ s education about Aboriginal Australia has been a long journey. Ten years into his life in the Territory, he was general manager of the Arnhem Land Progress

Return to Contents

Association (ALPA) – the largest employer of Aboriginal people in the NT with a turnover of approximately $20 million a year. But over time Stuart realised that his inability to communicate with Aboriginal people in their own language was holding him back from deeper relationships. To the people he worked with he would always be bunggawa – the big boss – and a whitefella to boot.

So he stood down as general manager, and began an intensive course of study in the Yolŋu language.

The relationships that opened up from his language study led to a new level of spiritual connection. In due course, the old men of Elcho Island sat down with Stuart in the dirt under the trees and schooled him in their law.

A man he knew adopted him as his brother in the Gupapuyngu clan of the Yolŋu nation with the skin name bulany, meaning red kangaroo. To complete the induction, the man ’ s wife adopted Ros as her sister to make sure Stuart and Ros ’ relationship was proper in Yolŋu kinship terms. The intricacies and responsibilities of Aboriginal relationships across Arnhem Land, and the traditions and taboos that came with them were now fully part of Stuart and Ros McMillan ’ s everyday lives.

“This meant maintaining protocols – such as not addressing or looking directly at Djiniyini ’ s wife – because in Yolŋu terms she ’ s a person with whom I ’ m in what ’ s called an avoidance relationship, ” explains Stuart.

Stuart worked for Djiniyini Gondarra for 12 years, through the heady days after the High Court ’ s Mabo decision established native title.

Aboriginal and Islander groups all around the country were making their cases. This meant a lot of research for Stuart, and trips to Canberra to resource Djiniyini and others as they gave their input on the drafting of the Native Title Act under Prime Minister Paul Keating.

While they were drawn ever deeper into Aboriginal Australia, the Uniting Church has remained a constant in the McMillans ’

lives. After settling down at Humpty Doo on Darwin ’ s rural fringe, the McMillans joined with five other couples to set up a new congregation, Humpty Doo Uniting Church, now named Living Water Uniting Church.

After two ordained ministers in placement, Stuart was recognised as pastor, presiding over weddings, funerals and “everything a normal ordained minister would ” . Stuart and Ros both went on to hold senior leadership roles in the Northern Synod with Ros serving as moderator from 1996–99, and Stuart finishing an extended five-year term as moderator last month.

In layman ’ s terms As a lay president Stuart ’ s role in worship will be slightly circumscribed. Under Uniting Church regulations he won ’ t be able to perform baptisms or preside over communion outside his synod without the authorisation of the host presbytery.

So, what kind of leader will Stuart McMillan be for the whole Uniting Church?

One who will work for a more inclusive, intercultural church across generations to bring about reconciliation and renewal for the whole creation.

“We are challenged to be a community of Christ, to bring that unity of Christ into play across the many different cultures in God ’ s church, ” says Stuart.

“With our Indigenous brothers and sisters, the challenge remains for us to really listen to them and to the Spirit and to find ways to grow our relationship so that it becomes a truly interdependent one.

“I am energised by the way our next generation is embracing our diversity and applying their gifts and talents in leadership right across the Uniting Church. ” Whatever other challenges may lie ahead, Stuart McMillan is set to face them with patience, perseverance and a profound spirituality.

13

Visual Presentation Systems Public Address Church - School - Board Room - Retail Display - Hospitality Data Projection - Plasma - LCD - Projection Screens - Accessories Sale - Installation - Service “TEC - Everything Electronic installed with Excellence” Greg Hallam 0411 550417 - Keith Ellison 0411 556075 Campbelltown: 8365 0377 - Fax: 8365 0677 Web: www.tecsa.com.au

(Morgans A.B.N. 49 010 669 726 A.F.S.L.235410) Participant of ASX Group, A Professional Partner of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.

Cross Cultural Cross Cultural Relationship Workshops Relationship Workshops Facilitated byRev RevDrDr Tony Floyd Facilitated by Tony Floyd (Assembly National forMulti Multi & Cross Cultural Ministry) (Assembly NationalDirector Director for & Cross Cultural Ministry)

8261 8211 All hours

Develop key skills and understanding of Multi & Develop keykey skills ofCrossDevelop skillsand andunderstanding understanding of Multi & CrossCultural Ministry Multi & Cultural Cross-Cultural Ministry Ministry

Calling all UCA members in leadership roles, leaders of Councils and entities associated with UCA

Calling alltoUCA members inleaders leadership roles, leaders of Councils Synod Staff participate in in a unique opportunity to develop key skills andassociated understanding in UCA Calling alland UCA members in leadership roles, of Councils and entities with

the sector of the church that is showing the most growth – Multi & Cross Cultural Ministry. and Synod Staff participate in in a unique opportunity developStaff key skills and understanding andtoentities associated with UCA andtoSynod to participate in in invitation is also open members of the community work&closely with people from diverse the sectorThis ofin the church that is to showing the growth who – Multi Cultural Ministry. a unique opportunity tomost develop key skillsCross and understanding backgrounds.

inisthe the church that is showing the most growth – diverse This invitation also sector open to of members of the community who work closely with people from

www.ivanbutlerfunerals.com.au enquiries@ivanbutlerfunerals.com.au 26 OG Road Klemzig SA 5087

backgrounds.

Multi

& Cross Cultural Ministry.

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

This invitation is also open to members of the community who Date Venue Cost workLearn August 29 closely (Saturday) with people from Hallett diverse Cove UC backgrounds. $15.00 UCA members; how we can fully engage in living faith and life across cultures.

Day 1

$35.00 Community members

Commencing at 9.30am

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

August 29September (Saturday) Hallett UC $15.00 members; 12 (Saturday) HallettCove Cove UC $15.00 UCAUCA members; $35.00 Community members Day 1 Day 2 $35.00 Community members Commencing 9.30am Date Commencing at 9.30am

Venue

Cost

September August 12 (Saturday) Hallett Cove $15.00 UCA members; 29 (Saturday) Hallett CoveUC UC $15.00 UCA members details can be obtained by contacting Bev Freeman on 8236 4243 or bfreeman@sa.uca.org.au DayFurther 2 $35.00 Community members

- 9.30am Day 1 Commencing

$35.00 Community members

Commencing at 9.30am

September 12 (Saturday) - Day 2

AUSTRALIAN DIRECTORS

$15.00 UCA members $35.00 Community members

Commencing at 9.30am

ASSOCIATION

Geoff Lewis General Manager

14

Hallett Cove UC

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

FUNERAL

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

d ive r s i t y

Assembly General Secretary changes Nigel Tapp At the 14th Triennial Assembly, retiring Assembly General Secretary Rev Terence Corkin was recognised for his steady hand and unwavering commitment to guiding the Uniting Church through a time of significant change.

During his time as Secretary, Terence not only dealt with contentious issues such as sexuality, leadership and the Frontier Services crisis, but remained mindful of the health and faithfulness of the Church.

Addressing the gathered Assembly members, Geoffrey Grinton, Assembly Business Manager and Standing Committee member, described Terence as a fulcrum of change who provided advice and guidance as well as a point of reference and calm.

Following a standing ovation, Terence offered an emotional farewell.

He said that no matter how challenging times had become during his time in the role, he always saw it “as a place where I thought I was meant to be serving. ” Terence will step down as General Secretary at the end of 2015 after 15 years in the post. Colleen Geyer will take the reins as the new General Secretary, having been appointed by the 14th Assembly.

Retiring President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney said Colleen emerged

as a very clear preferred candidate who had a deep understanding of the vision, values and processes of the Uniting Church in Australia.

“She came with particular gifts for this time in the life of the Church – strong skills in the development and practice of governance… [and] strengths in areas of risk management and financial management and human resources, ” he said.

By the end of the long decision-making process, the Standing Committee recognised Colleen had a very strong sense of call to the position. Colleen echoed this in her address to Assembly members.

“It makes sense of all that has come before – my gifts, my skills, my leadership, the relationships that I have built nationally and internationally, and the wisdom I have gained, ” she said.

Colleen brings a wealth of experience to the position, having worked in leadership and director positions with organisations such as UnitingCare Queensland, UnitingCare Australia and BlueCare, in addition to holding positions on a wide variety of boards, committees and task groups.

For further information about Terence Corkin ’ s retirement and Colleen Geyer ’ s appointment please visit assembly2015.uca.org.au

An update on Frontier Services Nigel Tapp

The 14th Assembly has sought to understand the reasons behind the changing circumstances of the Uniting Church ’ s valued remote area ministry Frontier Services.

Frontier Services is changing tack, re-directing its work to community support activities and resourcing patrol ministry.

Less than a year after Frontier Services celebrated its 100th anniversary, the ministry found itself under severe financial threat due to the high costs associated with the delivery of aged care services in remote areas.

The major financial burden caused by sanctions, and the need to spend significant amounts of money to rectify major deficiencies in systems and services, took a great toll on Frontier Services, and particularly its people.

It was recognised that Frontier Services ’ commitment to filling a need in remote Australia was the catalyst for the difficulties. As a growing number of small aged care service operators proved unable to fulfil demanding accreditation standards, Frontier Services increased the number of its aged care services by about threefold.

Former president Rev Prof Andrew Dutney told the Assembly that Frontier Services never planned to increase its operations. “[But] Rather than see people in remote Australia deprived of aged care services, especially Indigenous communities, Frontier Services took on these difficult operations with the intention of restoring them to financial viability and handing them back to the communities they served, ” he said.

“It was a risky, heroic undertaking reflecting the can-do, have-a-go Return to Contents

attitude that has been so characteristic of Frontier Services. ” Over time, about 80 per cent of Frontier Services ’ business was directly linked to aged care, accounting for about $60 million per annum.

The Assembly Standing Committee stressed that the wider church has fulfilled the commitment to remote Australia and continues to express this in a variety of ways. These have not diminished since the transition of aged care and community services from Frontier Services to other providers in the UnitingCare network.

Andrew said the Assembly accepted that it did not have the capacity to oversee patrol ministries well, and was in consultation with synods and presbyteries to transfer oversight of the operations to them.

He also recognised that many people associated with Frontier Services are feeling disappointed and hurt, and said he hoped actions undertaken at Assembly would assist with the healing process.

Later in the meeting, the National Director of Frontier Services, Grahame Ryan responded to working group questions regarding the future of Frontier Services. He said that the organisation plans to continue honouring its commitment to support remote and rural Australia through community recovery and volunteering programmes.

When asked where financial contributions to Frontier Services will be distributed in the future, he advised that donations remain strong, and that specific programmes focussed on assisting remote communities will continue to be funded through these contributions.

Further insight into Frontier Services has been provided in media releases at assembly2015.uca.org.au

15

d ive r s i t y

Congress proposals pass The 14th Assembly has passed a series of proposals to address historic and current injustices affecting Australia ’ s First Peoples.

The proposals were brought by the Uniting Aboriginal and

Islander Christian Congress (UAICC), and largely dealt with issues of recognition, treaty and sovereignty.

Indigenous recognition in the Constitution

Doctrine of Discovery

The Assembly has agreed to continue to support the recognition of Indigenous people in the Australian Constitution, as long as the form of recognition offered can be seen as a step towards, rather than a blockage to, larger issues of sovereignty and treaty.

It was noted that there is a diverse set of views within Congress regarding recognition in the Constitution.

Many members of the UAICC wish to seek a treaty between independent sovereign states of Indigenous peoples, the British Crown and the Australian Government. Some view constitutional recognition as a distraction from this goal.

Under the proposal, the Assembly committed to work with the UAICC to educate members of the Uniting Church about the need for a treaty.

The Uniting Church has moved with strong support to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery and its theological foundations as a relic of colonialism, feudalism, and religious, cultural, and racial biases that have no place in the treatment of First Peoples.

In discussion, members of the Assembly considered the relationship between the Doctrine of Discovery and doctrine of terra nullius in Australia.

“Under the Doctrine of Discovery, the Church is saying these people are not as important simply because they [the colonisers] are Christians. This is something we have said as part of the holy, catholic and apostolic church – it is a dreadful part of our history, ” said Rev Dr Avril Hannah-Jones.

“We need to educate people about this terrible part of our Church ’ s history. I am sure there are many here who would love to be a part of that process. ” The Assembly also affirmed the World Council of Churches “Statement on the Doctrine of Discovery Impact on Indigenous Peoples ” , and will encourage the statement to be considered in the Uniting Church, particularly in its theological colleges.

First Peoples are sovereign peoples The Assembly accepted Proposal 25, which asked the Church to join with Congress in exploring what it would mean for the practices of the Church to recognise and affirm that First Peoples are sovereign.

Tasmania Mission Development Presbytery Minister Michelle Cook noted that, although there is a definition of sovereignty in the preamble to the Uniting Church Constitution, “the proposal is intended for the Uniting Church to explore what it means practically, with the use of property, ministry in our schools, everything. ” Another request was added to the proposal for Assembly Standing Committee to develop resources to further the Church ’ s understanding of treaty and sovereignty.

Yolngu Nations call for a treaty The Assembly has noted and supported the call for a treaty for the Yolngu People of Arnhem Land.

The 14th Assembly applauded after accepting the proposal to affirm the Northern Regional Council of Congress (NRCC) be granted an internationally recognised treaty. The NRCC has acknowledged that Arnhem Land was not conquered or occupied by foreigners in the colonial era, nor succeeded by a foreign jurisdiction through a treaty.

In presenting the proposal Rev Steve Orme said: “This is a specific case for a specific area to acknowledge that the Yolgnu nations existed. We want to be recognised and talked with and treated with respect as people who have law and governance that is older than the western system. ” “In this proposal we are calling for the Church to stand with and support us. ”

16

Mapoon, memorial, and a week of prayer and fasting A new appeal to rebuild the church at Mapoon has been authorised by the 14th Assembly.

After a bauxite deposit was discovered in the 1950s, the Queensland Government forcibly removed Mapoon ’ s residents from their homes in November 1963. The church building was also burned at this time.

The Uniting Church will work with the UAICC on a compensation claim from the Queensland Government and the relevant mining companies.

The Assembly also agreed to proposals relating to an annual week of prayer and fasting, to be facilitated by the Standing Committee in partnership with the UAICC, and the establishment of a memorial for Rev Charles Harris.

These proposals were all passed by consensus.

Living out the covenant The Assembly discussed ways to live out the covenant between the Uniting Church and the UAICC. The Assembly agreed to take a stand against the forced closure of Aboriginal communities (see the article on page 17) and agreed to support the Northern Regional Council of Congress (NRCC) in its opposition to fracking on Aboriginal land.

d ive r s i t y

Clockwise from top: Assembly members gathered to oppose the forced closure of Aboriginal communities; youthful members calling for a show of opposition; Rev Denise Champion speaking to one of the UAICC proposals; some of the First Peoples attending the Assembly.

Youthful members speak against forced closures The 14th Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia stood as one to oppose the forced closure of remote Aboriginal communities.

The symbolic action was the result of a heartfelt plea by a contingent of youthful members – those aged 30 and under – who pleaded with the Assembly to respond to the potential closures.

The action took place outside the University of Western Australia ’ s Winthrop Hall on the sixth day of the Assembly meeting.

The entire Assembly, including President Stuart McMillan and Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress Chairperson Rev Dennis Corowa, moved outside the hall to signal as one their solidarity with Indigenous people in threat of being forced off their land by government policies.

The statement drafted by youthful members was read to the 14th Assembly on Thursday 16 July, as follows: The youthful members of the Assembly seek to extend their love and support to the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.

We have been moved by the stories Congress shared with us. Both through the National UAICC report and through the time we spent with Uncle Sealin and his family during our pre-Assembly briefing.

The experiences Uncle Sealin and the youthful members of Congress shared moved us in ways words can ’ t convey.

Our hearts were heavy and we ached with our Congress family. We continue to ache.

Return to Contents

As young people we struggle just to sit with pain, but rather seek to respond to it. As the week has progressed we have continued to feel a need to respond intentionally and meaningfully.

The youthful members commit to intentionally living out the covenant. Both here at the Assembly meeting and in our home congregations, we commit to supporting each other in living out this commitment.

As a first step in the renewal of this relationship (as a sign of our commitment to intentional renewal of relationship), we call on the 14th triennial Assembly to join the youthful members in a symbolic action in support of Congress ’ call for us to oppose the potential closure of communities.

The action we propose is for the entire membership of the Assembly to gather on the lawns outside for a photo opportunity in support of Congress. Our hope is that the Assembly can commit to joining us in this as a symbolic first step towards the development of more authentic and lived out relationships.

We propose to do this at a time determined by the Business Committee.

Additional requests were added to the proposal, asking the Uniting Church President and other heads of churches to meet with the Australian Prime Minister, and the premiers of Western Australia and South Australia, to make known their opposition to forced closure of the communities.

17

d ive r s i t y

Culturally-appropriate marriage discussion to continue Rohan Salmond and Catherine Hoffman

The Assembly engaged in robust conversation about marriage and same-gender relationships over the course of several days at the 14th triennial meeting.

The Assembly received a report from the National Working Group on Doctrine titled “The theology of marriage and same gender relationships within the Uniting Church ” .

The report explores the results of a discussion paper on this topic, which was distributed to the Church as a result of a decision made at the 13th Assembly meeting. Responses were received from approximately 438 Uniting Church groups and individuals.

The report also details further resourcing that the Working Group on Doctrine believes is required for the Church to “make faithful and well-informed decisions in this area. ” After receiving this report, the Assembly affirmed that ministers continue to be allowed to determine whether to accept or refuse requests to celebrate marriage within the constraints of the Marriage Act 1961.

If a change to the Marriage Act is made between now and the next Assembly in 2018, the Assembly General Secretary will issue a letter to all Uniting Church authorised celebrants, advising them of their freedoms and constraints under that legislation and in their churchauthorised role.

“It ’ s important that if there is any change to the Marriage Act, that all of our authorised celebrants are on the same page as to what that means, ” said Rev Alistair Macrae, Convenor of the National Working Group on Doctrine.

It was requested that the letter be translated into several languages, providing clarity and making it accessible to all culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Rev Alistair Macrae is the Convenor of the National Working Group on Doctrine

The Assembly has also committed to continue to engage in a culturally-appropriate conversation about marriage and same-gender relationships.

In addition, the Assembly resolved to issue a pastoral letter to the Church affirming the Uniting Church as an inclusive church embracing those members who identify as LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning).

Another proposal outlining procedures for respectful conversation with the multicultural bodies of the Church was referred to the Assembly Standing Committee.

Finally, a proposal to reaffirm the Uniting Church ’ s existing stance on marriage and reject any public celebration of a same-gender union was rejected by the Assembly.

Engaging in Interfaith September Rebecca Beisler

In multi-religious Australia, as we come to terms with increasing fear and distrust of those from other faiths, we need to double our efforts to build interfaith harmony, says Rev Michael Barnes, Convenor for the Assembly Relations with Other Faiths Working Group.

“It is part of our call as Christians to work for peace and harmony and we cannot do that today without first building trust, understanding and friendship among people of different faiths. ” Interfaith September is an opportunity for Uniting Church members to begin conversations on how the Church relates to people of other faiths.

“When we consider how a person of another faith might understand

18

Christianity and our own scriptures, we are encouraged again to look at those scriptures and the Christian tradition in a new light, ” says Michael.

“This kind of reflection enriches our own understanding and opens our eyes a little more to what the scriptures might say to us. ” The Interfaith September toolkit provides worship resources, reflections on lectionary readings, video clips, tips on hosting interfaith gatherings, guidelines about interacting with people of different faiths, and weekly suggestions of activities or actions.

To find out more about Interfaith September, please visit assembly.uca.org.au/rof or email rof@nat.uca.org.au

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

Croydon Uniting Church This special edition of “Getting to know ” focusses on Croydon Uniting Church, which officially closed its doors in 2013.

Towards the end of June, the former Croydon Uniting Church building was demolished, 90 years after its establishment.

It was the second church in the area to be demolished within the past 12 months. Gino Chinca provides a brief history of the church from inception to demolition.

The history of Croydon Uniting Church dates back to approximately 1875, when it began as Brompton Park Primitive Methodist Church.

Upon establishment, it was situated near the corner of Green and Hawker Streets in Brompton. Following the sale of this property to the Hindmarsh Corporation in 1919, the congregation moved to a site on Hawker Street in Ridleyton. In 1920, a large piece of land was purchased further west on Hawker Street with a plan to move there once a church hall had been erected. Later that year, Webber and Company built the church hall for approximately 700 pounds ($1,400).

An opening service was held in the new hall on the second Hawker Street site on Sunday 12 September, 1920. This was the first event the congregation held under their new name, North Croydon Methodist Church.

The enthusiastic band of worshippers at North Croydon Methodist toiled hard under difficult times and conditions. World War I had recently concluded, affecting many.

Church attendances and Sunday School numbers had also risen considerably. The congregation realised they needed a larger worship space than that provided by the small Hawker Street hall.

Return to Contents

By 1925, a new church building was already being discussed. The energetic minister of the church at the time, Rev John Pearce was the leading light in the movement for the building of a new large church. After conferring with the church ’ s trustees, the decision was made to build a new church on the same block of land on Hawker Street.

This would sit closer to the road than the small church hall, which had been established towards the rear of the large lot.

The foundation stone of the new church building was laid at 3pm on Saturday 16 May in 1925 by Mr DeGaris of Naracoorte. Rev J Bullock, the President of the Methodist Conference, and others assisted in the ceremony.

A sum of 1,400 pounds ($2,800) was needed to meet the cost of the new church.

After the completion of the building, the first service was held on Sunday 10 October, 1925. Thanks were extended to all who had anything to do with the building of the new brick structure.

In approximately 1939, the church changed its name once again, becoming Croydon Methodist Church.

In April 1954, a large hall was erected at the

back of the church with a large amount of the work done by voluntary labour at a low cost. It was dedicated to the services of youth.

On Wednesday 22 June in 1977, Croydon Methodist Church became Croydon Uniting Church with the formation of the Uniting Church in Australia.

The Croydon congregation merged with the Kilkenny and Gelland Uniting Churches in 1995 to form Croydon Park Uniting Church, worshipping at Croydon Park. The Croydon church building on Hawker Street continued to be used by many organisations after this time, including dance groups, senior citizens, the North West Presbytery, and more.

In late 2012, the Hawker Street property was sold to an investor. From this time, organisations ceased using the space.

At 6pm on Wednesday 27 February in 2013, a decommissioning service was held at the old Croydon Uniting Church building.

Pastor Brian Dustan led the service, which was attended by 18 people.

Across its long history and numerous name changes, Croydon Uniting Church remained a true place of worship, care and faith, serving its members and the wider community.

19

letters to the editor

Supporting Stillpoint

In September, the Stillpoint Faith Community will be celebrating its 10th anniversary.

For 10 years Stillpoint has offered a contemplative worship experience, where through stillness, silence and the opportunity for reflection, people have been nurtured on their spiritual journey, encouraged on their way of discipleship, and inspired to deepen their relationship with God. A major factor in the dream of Stillpoint becoming a reality was the support and encouragement of the wider Uniting Church in SA. Initially this came through the personal encouragement of several Synod staff. Without meaning to diminish the contribution of so many people, I [Gary Stuckey, minister at Stillpoint] would like to thank Ann Siddall and Ian Price who were the first to believe that the vision of a contemplative worshipping community was worth pursuing. The dream, however, might not have come to life if it had not been for the generous funding support of Uniting Foundation in the first few years.

On behalf of all those who are a part of the Stillpoint Faith Community, and those who have been during the past 10 years, I express my deep gratitude to the Uniting Church SA for their support.

The 10th anniversary of Stillpoint will be celebrated in the beautiful Nunyara Chapel on Sunday 6 September at 6.30pm.

G. Stuckey, Flagstaff Hill Ministry Challenge - Seeking Expressions of Interest

Ethical decisions

I was quite disturbed at the recent Presbytery and Synod meeting to witness a basic disagreement over what was ethical and unethical.

One segment of the meeting was claiming that it was unethical to mine coal, and another segment that it was unethical not to mine coal.

It made me think again about how we as the Church decide what is ethical and what is unethical.

A very wise Muslim friend once told me: “Brian, for all faiths, one of the ways to decide if a particular issue is ethical or not, is to ask the question, ‘What would happen if everyone in the world did it? ’ ” When I applied that question to the coal issue, the answer became clear. If we all relied one hundred percent on coal to supply electricity, and made that available to solve the problems of developing countries, it would just be a matter of debate as to whether we would die first from Black Lung (from coal particulates) or totally destructive climate change. On the other hand, if we all used renewables to supply the power we needed, the pain and suffering would be negligible.

As the Pope is imploring us, “Listen to the cry of the Earth, and of the poor ” . That ’ s another great guideline, isn ’ t it?

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

Be topical, be brief, be timely.

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

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

Calvary Presbytery The Calvary Presbytery is seeking expressions of interest from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous ministers and pastors who have a desire to minister in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and congregations in Queensland.

Calvary Presbytery is the regional organisation of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) in Queensland. It has oversight of the remote congregations of Mornington Island, Aurukun, Napranum, and Mapoon, as well as urban ones in Gordonvale, Townsville and Zillmere in Brisbane. There are current vacancies in some of these congregations.

We are seeking people who have a desire to work with and beside Indigenous people in an empowering way, both in supporting and leading local congregations and also supporting the community to address its own critical issues.

If you are motivated to be involved in this kind of ministry, please contact the Rev Dennis Corowa or the Rev John Adams at the Presbytery office in Townsville.

Contact details: Office Tel: 07 4723 1805; Fax: 07 4723 2058 Dennis Corowa Mob: 0408 871 354; email: dennis@calvarypresbytery.com.au John Adams Mob: 0457 707 103; email: john@calvarypresbytery.com.au

20

Stillpoint Faith Stillpoint Faith Community Community 10th Anniversary 10th Anniversary Celebration Celebration 6.30pm 6thSept.

Sept.

6.30pm Sunday Sunday 6th Nunyara Chapel Nunyara Chapel Burnell Drive, Drive, Belair Burnell Belair Worship Service Worship Service followed by followed bysupper. supper.

RSVP appreciated RSVP appreciated

(08)8178 81780048 0048 (08)

2016 Calendars Orders are open for Uniting Church SA 2016 calendars!

COST: Printed 2016 calendars will attract a charge of $1.00 per calendar.

ORDER: By Monday 12 October 2015. Late orders cannot be accepted.

For more information visit sa.uca.org.au/calendarsannual-reports

stillpoint@internode.on.net

stillpoint@internode.on.net www.stillpointsa.org.au www.stillpointsa.org.au

positionsvacant.sa.uca.org .au

diary ART EXHIBITION. SALA event “Art from the Rock ” will open on Friday 7 August 7-10pm at Sunset Rock Uniting Church (40 Spencer Street, Stirling).

The exhibition will be open over two weekends – Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August, 1-5pm, and Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August, 1-5pm. It will include works by Andrea Malone, Paul Metcalf, Rita Hall, Aemon Verreker and Dennis Noble. Displays of art focussed on The Beatitudes, works from “From the Inside – Mobilong Art ” , plus photography, mosaics, craft and children ’ s art will all feature. Admission is free. Food and drink available to purchase. All proceeds go to Teen Challenge.

AFTERNOON CONCERT. A pleasant Sunday afternoon concert featuring Lobethal Harmony Club will be held at Marion Uniting Church (Township Road, Marion) on August 9 at 2pm. The concert will be followed by homemade afternoon tea. Tickets $12 from Brenda (8377 1230).

MESSY CORNER. The Corner Uniting Church (corner of Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) will hold a Messy Church service on Sunday 9 August, 3.30pm-5.30pm. Join in for a time of music, drama, and craft.

Fun for the whole family, including a shared meal. Cost $5. More info at thecorner.org.au THANKSGIVING SERVICE. Celebrate 150 years at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church (27 Grenfell St, Kent Town) on Sunday 9 August, 10am, with guest preacher Rev Dr Keith Garner, the Superintendent/CEO of Wesley Mission Sydney. All welcome at the service and morning tea afterwards. For more information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au PLAYFORD UNITING CHURCH LAUNCH. The official launch of Playford Uniting Church (corner of Curtis Road and Douglas Drive, Munno Para) will be held on Sunday 13 September at 2pm. All are welcome to

classifieds RESTORE your phonographic records or tapes 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 MiniDV video tape & 8mm film to DVD conversion, SA MEDIAWORKS, Kent Town SA Ph: 8362 2251 samediaworks@soundtrack.net.au Card Makers and Scrapbookers!

Regular workshops around Adelaide or I can come to you. Suitable for all ages and experience. All workshop details at www.cardsbyfiona.blogspot.com.au Contact Fiona Meier 0424-269-039 for program details to be mailed to you or to make a booking.

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 almost 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 Unit 3, 51 Stephen Terrace, St Peters SA 5069.

Return to Contents

join the grand opening event, which will include activities for children and complimentary afternoon tea. For more information, please contact the Playford Uniting Church office on office@playforduc.org.au FUNDRAISING CABARET – a night of fun and music at The Corner Uniting Church (corner of Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) from 7.30pm on Saturday 15 August. Adults $15; family $30. BYO drinks and nibbles, with tea and coffee available. Raising funds for ministry and mission at The Corner. Part proceeds to the Nepal earthquake recovery. For more information or to secure a table, please contact The Corner on 8350 5400 or visit thecorner.org.au POLICE BAND CONCERT. On Wednesday 19 August at 2pm, Concerts @ Kent Town will feature the band of the South Australian Police. Tickets are $10 at the door. The event will be held at Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church (27 Grenfell Street, Kent Town). For more information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au A THIN PLACE. Everyone who enjoys (or wants to try) contemplative worship is invited to A Thin Place at The Corner Uniting Church (corner of Oaklands and Diagonal Roads, Warradale) on Sunday 30 August, 5.30pm.

All are welcome to this hour of quiet reflection on Luke ’ s gospel, which includes prayer stations, and a multi-screen audio visual presentation of art, photography and scripture. For more information, please visit thecorner.org. au FUNDRAISING CONCERT. Enfield Uniting Church (corner of Main North Road and Park Street, Sefton Park) will raise funds for emergency outreach and the church ’ s refugee support fund. The concert, “Dusty and Friends Variety Night ” , will feature Sheena Crouch, a nationally-acclaimed Dusty Springfield tribute performer. The concert will also include music from Sudan and musicians performing original compositions. It will be held at Enfield on Saturday 12 September, 7.30pm. Tickets: $25 (adults), $20 (concession), $10 (children) or $50 (family, two adults and two children).

Unique privileges, including a seat on stage, will be provided to groups booking a table of eight together ($200). Some tickets will be available on the door. For more information or to book, please contact the Enfield Uniting Church office on 8344 7857 (Tuesday to Thursday, 10am-2pm) or enfield. church@internode.on.net ANNIVERSARY SERVICE. West Lakes United Church (Bartley Terrace, West Lakes Shore) will hold its 40th anniversary on Sunday 20 September, 10am. The service will be followed by a special luncheon and celebrations of the church ’ s theme, “Bridging the Gap ” . All past members and ministers are welcome to attend. For more information please contact Helen on 8341 5310 or Sylvia on 8268 1783 or carts1961@bigpond.com SMALL GRANTS AVAILABLE. Australian Church Women SA Inc. advises that limited funds are available through Jubilee 150 Trust for women who, through lack of funds, are unable to undertake a course, attend training programmes or purchase equipment to enable them to fulfil their dreams.

The applicant is always sponsored by a Christian church body or individual office bearer of a Christian group. The applicant herself is not necessarily a church attendee. Applications to be received by the Convener by Wednesday 30 September. Grants to be presented in November. Enquiries and leaflets available from the Trust Convener, Coralie Wright on 8258 3580 or wrightcoralie795@gmail.com To have your upcoming event or message published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au with ‘Diary ’ in the subject line.

21

d ive r s i t y

Embracing all-age worship Mary Jo Zwaar

My daughter and her family were travelling in the United States recently and were given tickets to a Toledo Mud Hens baseball game.

When they told me, my first thoughts were: ‘No! Don ’ t take a threeyear-old child and a nine-month-old baby to a baseball game! It ’ s not for kids. They ’ ll be bored. It ’ s not even your game – you ’ re into cricket. ’ What does this have to do with all-age-worship? Maybe you ’ ve already seen a connection.

Often our reaction to the suggestion of including children in worship is along the same lines: ‘Don ’ t do it. It ’ s not for kids. They ’ ll be bored! ’ Worship may even be something you are not really interested in yourself.

My daughter ’ s family did go to the game – and they had a great time. They were greeted by a costumed mud hen, who shook hands with Remi and elicited happy gurgles from Daisy. They had seats right down front where they could see all the action, and even dodge a long-drive ball that whizzed by. They didn ’ t have to sit still. There was noise. There was food. There were pictures on screen, and commentary about the game. The people around them – all ages, from a wide range of backgrounds – were a friendly and enthusiastic bunch. Although the Mud Hens lost, it didn ’ t matter. Out of this experience, Remi developed a new passion for baseball, and both kids love wearing their Toledo Mud Hens t-shirts.

While I am not advocating that we turn worship into the circus of American professional sports, I do think we can learn something from

Mary Jo was surprised when her grandchildren developed a passion for baseball while on a recent holiday to the United States of America.

this experience. We can say ‘yes ’ to worshipping with all ages together, and hope to see passion and interest blossom in our young people.

What is all-age worship?

All-age worship – also known as inclusive, intergenerational or whole-church worship – is an encounter between God and God ’ s gathered people. It is a dialogue in which God speaks and people respond.

Intentionally inclusive worship: • allows this dialogue to take place in a variety of ways, engaging several senses, possibly including a sense of wonder and/or humour • focusses on a single, clear theme and connects that theme with the lives of the worshippers • provides worshippers with an experience they can remember and carry into their lives beyond the worship experience • encourages interaction and dialogue among people of various generations and people with different backgrounds, personalities, experiences, lifestyles and interests • takes seriously an understanding of the church as the multi-faceted body of Christ • recognises and values the young people present in the congregation and ‘the child within ’ each adult • welcomes everyone A biblical model of the church is of a body with a variety of equally valuable parts working together and fulfilling different functions. All parts of such a body suffer when one part is cut off – and all parts of a worshipping congregation suffer when one part is segregated from the others.

All-age worship is a way of thinking about, and approaching any style of worship, and doing it together.

How could your congregation work towards being intentionally inclusive and offering all-age worship?

The Uniting Young People team has collected a variety of resources to assist with planning all-age worship. The most recent of these is “Honouring Grandparents ” . Please visit sa.uca.org.au /uyp/resources or contact the Uniting Young People team on 8236 4239.

22

magazine

Make your mark at SAYCO This year ’ s South Australian Youth Camp Out (SAYCO) event is sure to encourage and inspire young people, with compelling speaker Dave Shepherd set to guide them through the theme “Make Your Mark ” .

With a long history of serving youth within the Uniting Church, SAYCO is held annually on the October long weekend, which begins on Saturday 3, and ends on Monday 5 October. Over three days, high school-aged people will gather at Woodcroft College in Morphett Vale, coming from across the state to join the SAYCO community.

SAYCO aims to grow a “radical generation of lifelong Christians fired up to join God ’ s work in the world ” by providing “a camp of excellence, uniting local ministries to radically transform their communities. ” Returning speaker Dave Shepherd brings a wealth of experience to assist SAYCO in meeting these goals. He has previously held church leadership positions and is currently a full-time teacher at Concordia Lutheran College. He led SAYCO in 2014, where his messages were a highlight for many young people.

“Dave was a brilliant speaker and I never found myself restless during his talks, ” said one camper.

“Dave ’ s messages were amazing, ” said another. “He was funny, but serious, and the connecting stories were great and very relevant. ” He is a gifted communicator and storyteller with a passion for encouraging the next generation of leaders, rallying young people to hear the call of God in their lives. This year, Dave ’ s messages will focus on encouraging, challenging and strengthening SAYCO attendees.

Young people attend SAYCO as part of local church groups

Messy activities and live music form part of the SAYCO experience.

from across the state, but do not need to be from a Uniting Church or Christian background – all teens currently in Years 8 to 12 are welcome.

Registrations for SAYCO 2015 are now open at sa.uca.org.au/sayco For more information, please contact the Uniting Young People team on 8236 4246 or email sayco@sa.uca.org.au

Overcoming suicide stigma Since its inception five years ago, the “Suicide: it ’ s no secret ” campaign has touched thousands of people through informative events and resources available on the nosecret.org.au website. The campaign, created by the Uniting Church in South Australia, will continue this year with an event at Scots Church Adelaide.

In past years, the Uniting Church SA has partnered with congregations in both metropolitan and rural locations to offer events aimed at dispelling the stigma and silence around the issue of suicide.

Typically conducted on or around World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day on 10 September, the campaign events provide opportunities to join in hope and grief. The events have allowed space for people to hear and share personal stories, and offered information about counselling and support services. People are also given time to reflect on loved ones lost to suicide at remembrance services held as part of the campaign.

“Suicide: it ’ s no secret ” aims to encourage open, responsible and honest discussion about suicide across the community and the media,

Return to Contents

creating spaces where hope and healing can be found.

Scots Church Adelaide (corner of Pulteney Street and North Terrace, Adelaide) will host a “Suicide: it ’ s no secret ” event from 10am to 7pm on Thursday 10 September. As in previous years, they will display resources outside the church building where they will be easily accessible to large numbers of people as they cross the busy intersection. A remembrance service will also be held within the Scots chapel at 5.45pm.

Other Uniting Church congregations and organisations across the state are also encouraged to organise events for the campaign.

For more information about the Scots Church Adelaide event, including how to volunteer, please contact the Scots office on 8223 1505.

For more information about how to hold an event, please access the comprehensive resources available at nosecret.org.au or contact Adrian Nippress, the Uniting Church SA Transforming Justice Coordinator, on 8236 4203 or anipress@sa.uca.org.au

23

magazine

Assembly adopts asylum seeker policy Nigel Tapp and Catherine Hoffman UnitingJustice National Director Rev Elenie Poulos; church leaders participating in Love Makes a Way in 2014; members voting on a proposal at Assembly 2015.

The 14th Assembly of the Uniting Church has adopted a new refugee and asylum seeker policy, calling on the Australian Government to adopt policies which genuinely seek to support, rather than demonise, asylum seekers and refugees.

In adopting a proposal from UnitingJustice, the Assembly has also called for: • The human rights of asylum seekers and refugees to be upheld at all times.

• Australia ’ s response to asylum seekers and refugees to be based on humanitarian principles.

• The abandonment of the policy of mandatory and indefinite detention for asylum seekers.

• Australia ’ s policies and legislation to refer particularly to the rights and needs of child asylum seekers and refugees.

• The conditions of detention to be humane and uphold people ’ s dignity.

• Australia to support and uphold the legal rights of all asylum seekers, including a fair, transparent and timely process for assessing people ’ s refugee claims.

• The provision of adequate psychological, social and medical care, and access to education for all asylum seekers • Australia to take a lead in the development of a genuine regional approach and take a global approach to the protection of asylum seekers and refugees and; • People whose refugee claims have been rejected to be treated justly and humanely.

24

In its statement and proposal, UnitingJustice argued that as Christians – called to love our neighbours, welcome strangers, challenge unjust systems, and offer refuge and care to those who are marginalised and in exile – the Uniting Church has a particular responsibility in Australian society when it comes to responding to issues facing asylum seekers and refugees.

It stated that policies relating to asylum seekers should be driven by bi-partisan commitments, both to a humanitarian response focussed on protection needs, and to upholding our obligations under international law.

“As one of the wealthiest, safest and most secure countries in the world, Australia should do its fair share to ease people ’ s sufferings in the context of what is a global problem, ” the adopted statement says.

“We must not shift our responsibilities to poor and developing countries. ” UnitingJustice Reference Committee Chair Rosemary Dawson said all people were well aware of the present plight of asylum seekers and refugees in Australia.

“We have heard reports from Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission about the appalling conditions in detention centres and the devastating effects of prolonged detention, particularly on children, ’ ’ she said.

Rosemary said she wished such motions did not need to be made.

She explained that the proposal aimed

to provide a sound understanding of the situation and concrete suggestions for a way forward.

“It enables us to open our eyes, our ears and hearts to their [asylum seekers and refugees] story. ” In seconding the proposal, UnitingJustice Reference Committee member Rosemary Hudson-Miller said there were currently more than 50 million refugees around the world – the highest since World War II. The number Australia accepted was small compared with many other nations.

Uniting Church congregations, leaders and members from across the country have previously taken their own stand against the ways asylum seekers and refugees are treated, participating in peaceful protests and the Love Makes a Way campaign.

By adopting this new policy, the Uniting Church has formally taken a stance on this issue – particularly the treatment of people in detention centres and the subject of children in detention.

“The Uniting Church believes that it is the responsibility of all of us as individuals and as a community to seek the common good, working together to build a just, peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society, where all people are valued, ” the statement reads.

“Christian support for human rights rests on the understanding that the community flourishes when all people are included and accorded the dignity and respect they deserve as beloved children of God. ” Return to Contents