New Times - October November 2016

Issue 35, No 5, 2016

The voice of Uniting Church SA

October / November 2016

Growing disciples GENERATE 2021

BURSTING WITH LIFE!

Prioritising church plants

Kids ’ camp focusses on faith

pp. 10-11

pp. 16-17

Contents FEATURES Standing in solidarity on nuclear waste

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A new generation of church growth

10-11

Bursting with life at KCO!

12-13

Giving voice to hope

24

REGULAR PAGES Moderator ’ s comment

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CEO/Gen Sec’s comment

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Letters 18-19 Diary 22-21

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: 9,000 Uniting Church SA Level 2, 212 Pirie St, Adelaide p. (08) 8236 4200 f. 8236 4201 country callers. 1300 766 956

DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2016 EDITION:

Friday 18 November Cover details: This edition ’ s cover photo was taken by Beth Duell at KCO, the annual Uniting Church SA camp for children aged 7 to those in Year 7. Children who attend KCO explore and engage with their faith in exciting and meaningful ways.

See more from this year ’ s KCO event on pages 12-13.

Placements News Placements finalised since the August/September 2016 edition of New Times: Carol Boyce (MOP) to Eldercare, Chaplain Trowbridge House/The Lodge from 19 September 2016 Laura Carson (MOP) as Salisbury Uniting Church/Intergenerational Project Worker NE (0.6) from 1 September 2016 Rev Kaye Colliver to Whyalla Uniting Church from 1 January 2017 Vacant placements as of 22 August 2016 The following is the current list of vacant (or soon to be vacant) approved placements: Profiles available – Burra (0.7); County Jervois (Arno, Cleve, Coolanie, Cowell, Driver River); Golden Grove (from 1 September 2016), Keith “ One Church ” (Uniting Church and Church of Christ together); Kimba (from 1 October 2016); Noarlunga (from 1 January 2017); Payneham Road (0.5) (from 1 October 2016); Port Elliot (0.5) (from 1 April 2017); Tumby Bay & Districts (0.8); Westbourne Park (0.5); Western Eyre (Cornerstone (Cummins), Cummins, Lock, Yeelanna); Wesley Kent Town (0.7).

Profiles not yet available – Christ Church (from February 2017); Covenanting Officer, Presbytery and Synod; Gawler Parish (from January 2017); Kangaroo Island Linked Congregations (from February 2016); Mannum (0.3); Naracoorte (from February 2017); Rosefield (from January 2017).

Upcoming services Induction of Rev Jane McDonald in the Ardrossan Parish – Wednesday 12 October, 7.30pm For more information on any of these placements, or to view national placements, please visit sa.uca.org.au/pastoral-relations/placementsvacant-and-finalised

editorial

Challenging leadership It ’ s great to work for an organisation committed to raising up both women and men to exercise their gifts of leadership through ministry and to serve the church and the community.

In late August, I had an incredible opportunity to attend the inaugural Uniting Leaders conference, “ UL16 ” , at Newlife Uniting Church on the Gold Coast.

The conference was excellent – it makes me excited to see the Uniting Church is investing in developing leaders in this way. The worship was vibrant and relevant, the networking opportunities were unique and plentiful, and the content was rich and appropriate. At times it was also challenging and confronting. The keynote speakers, Mark and Karen Walker, didn ’ t shy away from difficult issues, and encouraged vulnerabilty and raw honesty from all those attending.

One stand-out aspect of the conference was the rare opportunity it provided for ministry leaders to receive, rather than to give. There was time given in prayer for ministry and leaders – particularly those who were feeling overwhelmed or conflicted about different issues within their communities. It was a wonderful moment seeing leaders upheld in prayer by their peers; to see them strengthened by the power of prayer and the Holy Spirit.

Ministry can be hard, and leadership challenging.

Leaders can often face pressures that non-leaders may not always hear about or understand. It doesn ’ t really matter the size of the church or the organisation, the pressures are always there. Being in leadership doesn ’ t give you a direct line to God – work still needs to be done to stay connected, even when you perform God ’ s work every single day.

I hope that that this kind of conference continues to attract, support and grow many more leaders within the Uniting Church into the future. Next year, Adelaide will host the Uniting Leaders conference, which has been endorsed by our Uniting Church President. The event will be included as one of the National President ’ s Conferences in 2017.

The 2016 conference provided the space for open and helpful dialogue about the challenges of leadership and the ways we can grow as leaders.

Let ’ s hope the open and raw discussion that occurred at UL16 was at just at the right time for some of our leaders. Let us remember to pray for those in leadership roles; let us remember the struggle is real for many of those in ministry.

My hope is that the Uniting Church continues to stay on this path of raising up strong and vibrant leaders for the future.

A new intern for New Times My name is Tom Mitchard and I have been fortunate enough to be accepted as New Times Intern.

I am a youth leader at Hope Valley Uniting Church, and am also involved in various other areas in the life of the church.

Since I started leading at Hope Valley Youth nearly three years ago, I have helped run, and am still growing with, a life group of (now) Year Nine boys. I also run the youth group ’ s Facebook (facebook.com/HopeValleyYG) and Instagram (instagram.com/hopevalleyyouth) accounts.

I am currently in my first year of a double degree Bachelor of Journalism & Professional Writing and Bachelor of Arts (English & Creative Writing). I am loving my course so far, and it has rekindled my passion for writing.

This intern role appeals to me as it combines two of my greatest passions – sharing people ’ s stories, and the work of the Uniting Church. I hope that this three-month journey allows me to grow and develop, both in my professional life and in my faith. I really look forward to working more with the Communications team and the rest of the Uniting Church SA office.

Bindy Taylor

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moderator

Stories of hope This is my last New Times article as Moderator, and I would like to reflect on what I have seen and experienced in our Church over this three-year ministry.

In my first Presbytery and Synod meeting I invited people to bring photographs that reflected signs of hope in their ministry contexts.

Thank you for bringing those photos to the meeting. I have shared them in places across South Australia. I have also displayed some in my office, reminding me of the hopeful ways we are witnessing to the love and compassion of Christ.

During my time as Moderator, I have seen and experienced many hope-filled ministry contexts. There are so many stories to share of people who are embodying God ’ s hope and love through their daily lives.

We recently called for a special Synod meeting (Friday 19 August) to discuss the nuclear waste proposals that our federal and state governments are considering. We had an excellent forum with eight different speakers. One of the most challenging and inspiring moments of the event came when Congress Development Officer Rev Mark Kickett addressed the gathering. He asked us: what do you see when you look at me?

Mark spoke of being a child in a town where he was overlooked and served last at the local shop. People refused to see him, or saw him through a particular racist lens. “ I want you to look at me, not past me, not through me, ” Mark said. “ I ask you to see us and hear the message. I call upon you to stand in solidarity. ” Our solidarity with Congress is an expression of our commitment to the Covenant relationship we have as First and Second Peoples. As we truly see one another and listen respectfully with love and care, our relationships are strengthened, and our embodiment of God ’ s justice and reconciling love is made evident.

Another sign of hope is our latest KCO gathering – our annual “ campout ” for children aged 7-12. Approximately 750 of us, aged from seven to 87, met at Victor Harbor on 10 and 11 September.

The theme was “ Burst – Life with Jesus ” . To be with several excited and enthusiastic children, some of whom were experiencing their first KCO, was a delight. This intergenerational Christian celebration of God ’ s love and abundance is only possible because the whole church works together – planning, creating and implementing. We blessed each other at the end of KCO with words that are at the heart of following Jesus – love God, love others, love yourself. Take God ’ s love into your whole life.

We are God ’ s gift to each other as the Church. We are joined together in community through the grace of God in Christ – as

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Top: Dr Deidre Palmer prays with children at KCO 2016. Bottom: Pastor Mark Kickett shares his story at the nuclear waste forum in August.

First and Second Peoples, as intergenerational Community, and as a multicultural church.

Thank you for the joy and privilege of serving the Uniting Church in South Australia as Moderator over these past three years. I conclude with a deep sense of gratitude, and hope, grounded in who we are as the Uniting Church – community in Christ, living God ’ s compassion, a source of hope for our world.

Dr Deidre Palmer

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

Pilgrims and Presbytery meetings In 1964 Bob Dylan released the album The Times They Are a-Changin ’ .

The title track of the album pointed to a society that was transitioning.

The song has an enduring appeal, something every generation can recognise, because change is always with us.

Generally speaking, we love change that makes life better – for example, the “ twister fork ” or the “ cup holder umbrella ” . And we hate change that disrupts the way we have always done things – for example, when the TV remote has been misplaced and a different, apparently more inconvenient, way of changing the channel must be found.

In the Uniting Church, the times are always “ a-changin ’ ” .

We are a church that refers to itself, in paragraph three of the Basis of Union, as a “ pilgrim people, always on the way towards a promised goal ” . This reflects a church that, at its core, is a missional movement.

It is not in our DNA as a church to be a static or stationary people.

The static church loves change that makes life better for the people in the church. The stationary people of God hate change that upsets the way that things have always been done. Unfortunately, the static and stationary people of God often assume positions of authority, changing the church from being a pilgrim people to being a possessive people.

The Basis of Union is clear that in our DNA “ the Uniting Church acknowledges that the Church is able to live and endure through the changes of history only because its Lord comes, addresses, and deals with people in and through the news of his completed work ” (paragraph four, Basis of Union). A missional movement follows the lead of Jesus who said “ I will build my church and the powers of hell will not conquer it ” (Matthew 16:18).

A missional movement requires adaptability. The church must be able to change its shape to ensure the substance of Christ ’ s completed work can infuse and transform the wider community.

The gatherings of the Presbytery and Synod provide the church with an opportunity to be immersed in the present and future shape of our life as a missional movement. They also provide a time to celebrate what God has been doing in and through the church as a pilgrim people.

At the November meeting, and in the years to come, we will have a stronger focus on the generational transition of people under the age of 35 into the life of the Presbytery and Synod gathering. To this end, the next meeting will include an evening session where the music and input will be driven by Generation X members. Held from 7-9pm on Friday 4 November, this session will provide the whole pilgrim people with an opportunity to journey with the music and insights of this younger generation.

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Rev Nigel Rogers addressing the gathered members at the June Presbytery and Synod meeting.

The meeting will also provide an opportunity for members to engage with a wide variety of electives that seek to equip the missional movement of God ’ s church. The electives will be aimed at informing and resourcing the church in the areas of evangelism and discipleship, church planting, leadership, and mental health. The electives will be run on Thursday night from 7-9pm (with the exception of the mental health elective). All the electives will be offered again on Saturday from 11am-1pm.

The electives and the Gen X evening will be open to the whole church – not just members of the Presbytery and Synod.

I look forward to all that the unchangeable God has in store for the church during these changing times.

Rev Nigel Rogers

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Considering theological study?

Want to reach your full potential as a church leader?

Come and meet our Principal, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, and other faculty members.

Explore the study options available to you at Uniting College and learn about our plans for 2017.

When: Friday 28 October 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm Where: Uniting College 34 Lipsett Terrace, Brooklyn Park RSVP:

info@unitingcollege.org.au or 08 8416 8420

Meet the Principal

PICK UP A TAG OR LEAVE A GIFT UNDER THE TREE IN ANY TARGET STORE OR DONATE ONLINE. unitingcarechristmasappeal.com.au

n ew s

Standing in solidarity on nuclear waste The topic of nuclear waste repositories is one that has recently garnered a lot of attention in South Australia – in the public sphere, the media, and the Uniting Church community.

Members of the Uniting Church in South Australia discussed this issue at the June Presbytery & Synod meeting, and at a forum on Friday 19 August. The latter event was intended to act as a special Synod meeting; however, numbers fell just short of a voting quorum so it was instead held as a forum on nuclear waste.

At their meeting on Friday 9 September, the Uniting Church SA Standing Committee formally agreed to stand in covenantal solidarity with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) on the issue of nuclear waste repositories in South Australia.

The Standing Committee ’ s decision was informed by the previous discussions and debate on this topic.

In the wider community, the ongoing debate about nuclear waste has recently gained momentum with the announcement of a federallybacked plan to establish a low waste nuclear storage facility in the Flinders Ranges. Additionally, the South Australian Government has begun a consultation process to gauge community attitudes about establishing an international nuclear waste management industry for South Australia. This would incorporate management of medium to high level waste, following recommendations from the Nuclear Fuel Cycle Royal Commission.

Discussion within the Uniting Church SA community began with three proposals presented on behalf of the UAICC at the June 2016 Presbytery and Synod meeting. Consensus was reached on two proposals.

The two proposals approved at the June Presbytery and Synod meeting, along with those approved at the September Standing Committee meeting, form the basis of the Uniting Church SA ’ s current stance towards nuclear waste repositories in South Australia. The approved proposals are as follows: That the Synod: Listen to and acknowledge the concerns and opposition that UAICC are expressing about proposed nuclear waste repositories in South Australia. (Passed in June)

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Request the Moderator to progress a process for Presbytery and Synod members to explore the issues of nuclear waste repositories and a special meeting of Synod be convened for decision making on this matter. (Passed in June) Stand in covenantal solidarity with UAICC to oppose the proposed nuclear waste repository at Barndioota (Flinders Ranges) South Australia. (Passed in September) Stand in covenantal solidarity with UAICC to oppose the SA Royal Commission ’ s proposed nuclear waste facilities. (Passed in September) Members of the Uniting Church SA community are encouraged to learn more about nuclear waste and its management, particularly in relation to the proposed federal low level waste repository, and the state government ’ s proposal for a medium/high nuclear waste repository.

A longer version of this article is available on New Times online at sa.uca.org.au/new-times/standing-in-solidarity-nuclear

Engagement opportunities A number of upcoming events will provide avenues for Uniting Church SA members to find out more about nuclear waste and its disposal.

Consultation events are being held by the state government at over 100 locations across South Australia. To find out more about the state-wide consultation program please visit nuclear.yoursay. sa.gov.au or call 1800 842 563. The website also contains further information and ways to join the discussion.

National Day of Action on Saturday 15 October at 11am on the Parliament House steps in Adelaide. More information is available at dontdumponsaoct15.org A public afternoon tea will be hosted by Mothers for a Sustainable South Australia on Sunday 16 October, 2.303.30pm, at the Stirling RSL. More information is available at facebook.com/MothersSSA People are also encouraged to contact local Members of Parliament (MPs) to share their opinion on this issue. To search for a local MP visit aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Members

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Christmas 2016 postcards The Uniting Church SA Christmas 2016 postcards are ready to order!

This year the campaign is themed “ Experience life in all its fullness ” : The birth of Christ is a time of celebration for Christians. As we gather to retell the Christmas story, we are drawn to reflect on the abundant, eternal life Jesus came to give us.

The fullness of life through Christ – its ups and downs, births and deaths – is something we are often reminded of over the busy holiday season. It offers opportunities for friends and family to gather together, to remember those who are no longer with us, and to prepare for the year ahead.

Christmas is a time to reflect on and experience the fullness of life.

No matter what stage of life you are in, there is a place for you in the Uniting Church in South Australia.

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

– John 10:10b Postcard designs Life is full of ups and downs, challenges and celebrations for the many people who make up the Uniting Church SA and the wider community. The front of the Christmas postcard reflects some of these aspects, focussing on the fullness of life and the birth of Jesus.

The back of the postcard features John 10:10b. Space is given for congregations to list their service details (dates, times, locations, etc.).

Some congregations may also choose to include a brief Christmas message (one or two sentences).

Postcard cost Postcard cost: $75 per 1,000. Orders of fewer than 1,000 will be accepted – contact Communications (details below) for more information.

Poster cost: $20 for 10 A3 posters (minimum of 10).

Orders close: Wednesday 19 October.

To find out more or to place an order, please visit sa.uca.org. au/postcards or contact Communications on 8236 4249 or communications@sa.uca.org.au

Refurbishment plans to enrich communities The Uniting College of Leadership & Theology ’ s campus, located on Lipsett Terrace in Brooklyn Park, is beginning a refurbishment process.

The Brooklyn Park Refurbishment Team (BPRT) was appointed by the Standing Committee in late 2015 to develop plans for the site. The aim is for the refurbished campus to be operational in early 2018.

The BPRT has worked diligently to produce plans for an “ integrated ” campus-style for the site – this will see the Adelaide College of Divinity and Uniting College of Leadership & Theology come together in an integrated hub where both educational institutions can benefit equally. The BPRT has also allowed space for Adelaide West Uniting Church to utilise the hub and to provide practical links for “ hands-on ” ministry education. “ The Brooklyn Park refurbishment project is a significant opportunity to build community and a campus where those utilising the facility and grounds can have input – it is built together, ” says Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, Principal of Uniting College. “ I have great hopes for an enriched community where the church ’ s perspective will be broadened with increased training opportunities, particularly with links to other institutions and also Adelaide West. ”

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A presentation and discussion of the concept plans took place on-site at a stakeholder meeting on Wednesday 22 June. After further consultation and revision, the project has been approved by both the Standing Committee and the Resources Board. Building work is scheduled to begin in early 2017.

Plans are also underway for the refurbishment of the Uniting Church SA Synod office located on Pirie Street in Adelaide. This will be the first time the office has been refurbished since it was initially occupied over 15 years ago.

The plans will maximise the use of solar panels installed last year to reduce electricity consuption. Improvements will also be made to the office layout and design, including more open plan areas and maximising the use of space. Additional meeting areas will be incorporated to provide opportunities for training and development, and greater collaboration. It is expected that this refurbishment will be complete in 2017.

To read more about the two refurbishment projects, please visit sa.uca.org.au/uniting-church-media-releases

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Conversations from the heart Stuart McMillan, Uniting Church in Australia President, encourages the church to ensure discussions about marriage equality are anchored in grace and respect.

I ’ m sure we have all been reflecting a lot about the proposal for a plebiscite and more broadly civil society ’ s discussion about marriage equality.

How, as the people of God in the Uniting Church in Australia, do we engage – firstly, with one another within the Christian community recognising the range of theological diversity; and secondly, with the wider Australian community?

The internal discussion on the theology of marriage begun at the 13th Assembly in 2012 is continuing. Last year the 14th Assembly committed to encourage the “ space for grace ” – a time of listening to one another and respectful conversations about healthy relationships, marriage and other issues, particularly where cultural understandings differ.

As we move into a time of greater public discussion about marriage equality, I would remind church members of the importance of maintaining this space for grace.

It is easy to harm each other with careless words. So we should all choose ours carefully.

We are committed to being an inclusive Church that embraces LGBTIQ people as full members and to culturally appropriate discussion about relationships and marriage across our diversity.

Within the grace space, this is possible. But it will require conversations from the heart and being truly present for one another.

Over the past year I have been encouraging different communities to hear afresh the word of Scripture from Romans chapter 12, verse 5, which says: “ We belong to one another ” . This belonging is not a possessive, controlling belonging rather it is about mutuality and respect, recognising the intrinsic worth of every human being all bearing the image of the Creator.

My friend, Rev Andrew Norton, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand, recently reported through Facebook on a conversation from the heart in his Church.

The forum for that conversation was a hui – a special assembly at a Maori meeting place called a marae attached to the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand ’ s Maori Synod.

Andrew said of the meeting: “ Diversity is possible and doesn ’ t have to lead to division and marginalisation if only we listen deeply to one another and to God ” .

This seems like wisdom of the Spirit to me.

Coincidentally the venue was called Te Maungarongo marae, meaning “ the meeting place of peace and reconciliation ” .

I know we have similar places of peace and reconciliation in our ancient land, and we too should make use of these places for our own conversations from the heart.

Our Church has many such conversations ahead of us.

There are conversations with First Peoples about covenant, sovereignty and treaty, and a whole range of issues across the cultural and linguistic diversity of our Church.

So as we come to a time of national discernment, let us encourage one another as members of the community of God within the Uniting Church in Australia to conduct ourselves respectfully through conversations from the heart, listening deeply to one another and God. In this we do as the Scripture urges us, we show by our love for each other God ’ s love for the wider community.

Mägayamirri rom*, Stuart *Mägayamirri rom means “ the way of peace and tranquility, harmony with the whole of creation, be with and within you ” in the Yolŋu languages of North East Arnhem Land.

The Uniting Church in Australia has developed a number of resources to help members to think through and discuss these issues. Links to these resources are available at assembly.uca.org.au/cudw/news/item/2500conversations-from-the-heart

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leadership

A new generation of church growth Catherine Hoffman Rev Dr Graham Humphris speaking about church planting at the recent Uniting Leaders conference in Queensland.

Ten new churches in five years. That ’ s the bold of goal of the new Uniting Church SA initiative, Generate 2021. But, as Rev Dr Graham Humphris explains it, this goal is one that the Church needs to meet. “ ‘Studies show that if a denomination wishes to reach more people, the number of new churches it begins each year must equal at least 3% of the denomination ’ s existing churches ’ , ” Graham says, quoting the Effective Church Group (effectivechurch.com). “ This means that, to stop decline, we should be planting about nine new churches a year. ” After stepping down from his former role of General Secretary/CEO of the Uniting Church SA in 2014, Graham returned to congregational ministry. But now he ’ s back in the Synod office, working two days a week over 18 months as the Church Planting Project Officer.

Through his new role, and in collaboration with other teams and leaders within the Uniting Church SA, the Generate 2021 initiative was created. “ We want to have 10 churches planted by 2021 – that ’ s where the name comes from, ” Graham explains. “ And we wanted an action word that describes the kind of growth and community connection of the project – ‘generate ’ worked to encompass all of that. ” The name is also a reflection of John 20:21, where Jesus sends the disciples out to disciple others: “ Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. ’ ” “ I actually looked up all of the 20:21 verses in the Bible to see if they would fit, ” Graham admits with a laugh. “ And John 20:21 works perfectly for this project! ” Generate 2021 will look at three main models of church planting, although Graham is quick to say these are not restrictive.

The campus model sees an established church send a group of people to a new location, often following the same model or using the

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same resources.

The start-up model is when a person or group feels called to start something completely new.

Finally, the replant or regeneration model is used when a declining congregation asks another group to replant in their church building or location.

The Generate 2021 initiative is working with Mission Resourcing to explore the possibility of planting with migrant or CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) communities. Graham also hopes to have conversations with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress about church planting. “ I think church planting is a strategy that can help us grow the Uniting Church– but far more importantly, it is an opportunity to reach people in South Australia with the Good News of Jesus, ” Graham says. “ With each of these communities, our hope is that they ’ ll grow through conversion, rather than attracting people from existing Uniting Church congregations. We want them to make disciples, and to go out and plant more churches themselves. ” Discipleship and church growth are two key aims of Generate 2021 – and for the people looking to plant new churches. Rev Mike Wardrop is quick to identify these as two of the main goals of a church plant project he is currently working on alongside other Uniting Church leaders.

This new church will be a part of Generate 2021, although the seed for the project was planted much earlier. “ There are a lot of statistics to show that church planting can help the church to grow and can reach people that the church is not currently reaching. These were some of the driving factors in our decision to plant a church, ” says Mike.

Both Graham and Mike note that studies in Australia and the United States have shown new churches grow faster, reach more nonChristians, grow more through evangelism, mobilise more people, and

leadership

2017 calendars Each year, Uniting Church SA calendars provide congregations and individuals with lectionary readings, important dates, and the proposed Mission and Service Fund budget.

All congregations and organisations wishing to receive printed calendars must place an order by Friday 14 October, 2016.

Printed calendars cost $1.50 each. They can be collected at the Synod office in Adelaide or at the November Presbytery and Synod meeting.

They may also be posted at an additional cost.

Orders must be placed using a calendar order form. For more information or download an order form, please visit sa.uca.org.au/ calendars-annual-reports or contact Communications on 8236 4230.

reach different people to existing churches.

Graham adds that churches that plant other churches tend to experience growth themselves. “ We have high hopes that Generate 2021 will help us to bring more people to the Uniting Church and to Christ, but we ’ re aware of the challenges we will face in this project, ” he says. “ The Uniting Church in South Australia doesn ’ t have a great history of planting churches. In the past, we ’ ve done a lot of amalgamations – and done some of them well – but this is a new direction for us. “ As we begin, the biggest challenge we face is how to find the right leaders. ” As a first step towards finding the right people to lead new church plants, Graham is working with Rev Tim Hein to establish a training course to be run through Uniting College for Leadership & Theology.

The current plan is to offer this training early in 2017 as an intensive course run over a week, with some ongoing elements.

An elective will also be offered at the November Presbytery and Synod meeting to be held at Adelaide West Uniting Church from 3-5 November. The elective will be run on Thursday 3 November, 7-9pm, and Saturday 5 November, 11am-1pm. These sessions are open to anyone who wants to know more about church planting and Generate 2021; they are not restricted to members of the Presbytery and Synod. “ This is a really exciting project. It ’ s the kind of thing that keeps me awake at night – but in a good way, ” Graham says. “ We really hope the wider Uniting Church community will be just as excited about it and want to get involved. ” For more information about Generate 2021 or the church planting elective being offered the November Presbytery and Synod meeting, please contact Rev Dr Graham Humphris on 8236 4235 or email ghumphris@sa.uca.org.au

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Welcoming our new Moderator in November The next meeting of the Uniting Church in Australia, Presbytery and Synod of South Australia, will be held at Adelaide West Uniting Church from Thursday 3 to Saturday 5 November.

Rev Sue Ellis will be installed as Moderator of the South Australian Synod at a 7pm service on Wednesday 2 November, prior to the start of the meeting on Thursday. All are welcome to attend this service, and celebrate with the gathering over supper.

The meeting will also include electives open to the public (more information on page 5), and time to consider issues critical to the future mission and directions of the Uniting Church in SA. For more information about the installation service, electives, proposals and timetable, please visit sa.uca.org.au/pres-synod-meetings or access this information through the “ Yapp app ” , which can be downloaded on smart phone and tablet devices.

Summaries will be available at the conclusion of each day of the meeting through e-Updates, which are sent to UC e-News subscribers (sa.uca.org.au/uc-e-news) and provided through the Yapp app.

Information will also be included in the December/January print edition of New Times.

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leadership

Leading with a servant ’ s heart Petronella Lowies

Peter Morton is someone who expresses his faith through a servant ’ s heart. His attitude toward leadership is moulded in the same way, or as he puts it, “ was sewn into me from an early age ” .

But while Peter may be humble about his leadership skills, he has now been formally recognised for them – he was recently presented with the Uniting College for Leadership & Theology ’ s inaugural award for excellence in leadership studies.

Peter is currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Ministry through Uniting College. He began the degree on a part-time basis in 2013, and has been enrolled as a full time student since 2015.

While undertaking his studies, Peter has been employed in two other ministry roles. He serves as the Christian Pastoral Support Worker (chaplain) at Annesley Junior School, and is the Children and Families Pastor (together with wife, Jo) at Seeds Uniting Church. They also have five children at home. “ Life is a bit of a juggling act right now, with sacrifices along the way, ” says Peter. “ But leadership is also about seeing a desired outcome, discerning the way to reach it, while remaining committed to the people in your care. ” While his own dedication to ministry accounts for some of Peter ’ s ability to juggle these commitments, he also credits the flexibility of his study. These courses help to inform his work and to continue shaping his leadership. “ The lecturers have broadened my perspective on leadership through a theological lens. While there is theory to be learned, it is in the context of everyday ministry that this leadership is practised, ” says Peter.

A civil engineer by training, ministry was not Peter ’ s initial career choice. But he has always had the sense that he would be called into ministry.

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“ I had to reason with myself about whether the calling I felt was a ‘career thing ’ or a ‘heart thing ’ . After my engineering studies I managed a Christian book store for about seven years. I guess it was part of me trying to figure out what it was that God was calling me to do, ” Peter recalls. “ I went back to engineering, but I kept hearing the call… Deep within there was an inescapable whisper from God. He was calling me into pastoral ministry as a vocation. I knew this was where I needed to be. ” The award from Uniting College recognises Peter ’ s true call to ministry and leadership. According to Principal Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, the award for excellence in leadership studies was implemented because leadership is one of Uniting College ’ s most distinguishing factors. “ This focus on leadership is the distinctive thing that Uniting College offers to the Church nationally, ” says Andrew. “ We aim to prepare people to become effective leaders, empowered by the Spirit – lay people and people preparing for ordination or other specified ministries. ” Peter approaches ministry with a realisation that there is always more to learn. Every day brings lessons through which God reveals something. “ When you are 100 percent confident in your own abilities, you run the danger of trusting more in yourself, and less in God. I would rather be someone who trusts more in God, and less in myself, ” says Peter. “ If I work to the best of my ability, partnering with God, it will be more than enough for the ministry task at hand. ”

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c u l t u re

Above left: Rev Tony Goodluck (centre) with Chol Luk (left) and Akol Deng (right). Above right: One of Modbury Uniting Church's basketball teams in 2009, including Chol (number 7, front right). Far right: Another of Modbury Uniting Church's basketball teams.

A new adventure for Chol Luk Rev Tony Goodluck

It was 5.30am on a wintery Friday morning in August. As I walked across the airport courtyard and into the main terminal, I marvelled at the buildings and processes, systems and timetables that make up an international airport. Adelaide, it seems, has caught up with the 21st century. What a great time to be alive, and what a great city to be alive in, I reflected.

My early morning visit to Adelaide Airport was made to farewell two young men, Chol Luk and Akol Deng, who had received basketball scholarships to attend Lamar State College in Texas.

After a short hunt, I found the pair at Hungry Jack ’ s enjoying a final burger. In the United States the beef would taste different. The cheese would taste different, the bread would taste different… Life would be very different. It always is when you move from one country to another.

This would not be the first time Chol had to get used to the changes of a new country and culture.

Along with his mother, Mary Dut, and his siblings, Chol arrived in Australia about a decade ago. The family had fled Sudan ’ s terrible fighting and after years in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya, they were granted entry into Australia as refugees. The move was a huge culture shock for the family. But it was a wonderful relief to be safe in a welcoming country.

Mary Dut and her family became a part of our Modbury Uniting Church community, and they were able to take part in the many programs we run to support newly arrived families – programs that assist with English language, sewing, citizenship, driver ’ s licenses, and more.

Along with his brothers, Kenyi and Garang, Chol joined our

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Under 14 mixed basketball team. Chol showed a keen understanding of basketball, and his skills developed quickly as he put hours of practice in.

Chol ’ s biggest challenge was dealing with the inner turmoil and rage that consumed him. He had every reason to be angry, given the slaughter of his people, the devastation of his homeland, and the disruption of his young life.

But slowly, week by week, conversation by conversation, game by game, Chol began to learn to focus and to be thankful for what he had.

For several years, Chol continued playing in Modbury Uniting church basketball teams, winning a couple of grand finals on the way.

He also participated in church youth programs, worship, outings, SAYCO and shared meals.

Chol began connecting with other people, and with appropriate support, he found his way into District basketball – initially at Under 16 Div. 3 level. He kept working hard and made his way to Div. 1, playing with North Adelaide Rockets and West Adelaide Bearcats. He played ball for the school, and was selected to play for the state in the Under 18 and Under 20 teams.

In 2015, Mary Dut rallied the family to get behind Chol so he could go on a three-week basketball trip to the United States with local legend Al Green and a team of South Australian lads. They were able to visit colleges, play some carnivals, and talk to coaches and players in the US. By this time Chol was a confident young man with great skills, a strong sense of self, and a charming humility. He had poise and skill. And the people he met recognised this. He was granted a full scholarship to Lamar State College in Texas.

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Akol, a team mate of Chol ’ s, was provided with a scholarship to the same college. The pair played in the state team together, and for the Adelaide Warriors at several Sudanese National Carnivals over the past three years. For the two of them to be offered scholarships to the same college is tremendous. They will be able to support each other and enjoy the adventure together. They have been given the opportunity to pursue their basketball careers and obtain a university degree – debt-free.

Just before he boarded the plane, Chol turned to me, and said: “ I know this is just the beginning and I have to work really hard now to make the most of this opportunity. ” I have every confidence that he will continue to make the most of the opportunities given to him – as he did with the opportunities provided through his community in South Australia.

Big things happen when people take the time to build relationships of trust and develop networks of support. Chol was able to engage with the programs and community-building at Modbury Uniting Church.

People from the congregation and community saw him, affirmed his dreams, and gave him room to spread his wings – as did his family and the many others who supported him as he grew from an angry young man to a dedicated athlete.

It has been wonderful to see Chol make this journey. A recent Facebook message from Chol included the following: “ I just like to thank you for helping a little angry kid come a long way.

God bless you. ” Go well, Chol and Akol. We are proud of you both. Nyalic keni wek (God be with you).

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Free mental health resource for congregations On Tuesday 4 October, the Uniting Church SA, in conjunction with the Community Outreach Mission Network, launched a mental health resource titled “ Caring for community ” .

The 20-page booklet has been created to assist congregations and individuals in supporting and advocating for those living with mental ill health. It will be provided to churches and faith communities across South Australia, free of charge, as a way to support and care for those in the community.

The resource was modelled on a similar document produced by the Queensland Synod in 2015, which has been successfully utilised by Uniting Churches and faith communities across Queensland. “ Caring for community ” was launched by Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer at The Corner Uniting Church in the lead up to Mental Health Week (8-15 October) and World Mental Health Day (10 October). The launch event included mental health workshops, training and education provided by Rev Mark Boyce.

To obtain a copy of the resource please call Mission Resourcing on 8236 4243 or email justice@sa.uca.org.au

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“As we need to move to Adelaide to attend university, your investment in UC Invest, which enabled Lincoln College to refurbish and upgrade one of our dormitory buildings, will allow us to live in attractive, up to date accommodation whilst we are studying.”

Bethany & Caitlyn, Residential Tutors, Lincoln College

Invest with someone who invests in your community.

Visit us at ucinvest.com.au or call us on 1300 274 151.

UC Invest is an activity of The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.) ABN 25 068 897 781, the legal entity of the Uniting Church SA. Investment services are provided on behalf of the Uniting Church SA pursuant to ASIC Policy Statement 87 exemptions and APRA Banking Exemption No. 4 of 2014 (“The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.)”). Neither UC Invest nor the Uniting Church SA are prudentially supervised by APRA. Investments and contributions lodged with UC Invest will not benefit from the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act (1959). All products offered by UC Invest are designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the Uniting Church SA.

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fa m i ly

Bursting with life at KCO! This year KCO was held at Adare Camp and Caravan Park on 10-11 September – and it was a huge success!

Over 40 churches from across South Australia were represented at the camp, with over 400 campers in attendance and over 300 leaders and volunteers.

While activities and fun always form a part of KCO, the true focus of the event is on discipleship and faith formation. Campers were encouraged to explore the theme of “ BURST: Life with Jesus ” through the many activities, performances, small group times and other opportunities provided at KCO 2016.

KCO on the Eyre Peninsula was held on 17-18 September, and followed the same theme as the state event. Campers and leaders from across the Eyre Peninsula came together for this event, which was held at the Thuruna campsite in Tumby Bay.

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Children at both of the KCO events chose to give an offering to Act for Peace, the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia. Half of the funds raised through the offering will go to Act for Peace, while the other half will support KCO. Both KCO events will be held again in 2017. The state event will be held at Adare Camp and Caravan Park for the second time, and will take place from 25-26 March. Details about KCO EP 2017 are not yet available.

For more information about KCO, please visit sa.uca.org.au/kco or email kco@sa.uca.org.au Photos from KCO EP (far left, green box) were taken by Melissa Neumann. Photos from the state KCO event were taken by Beth Duell and Jacob Schwarz.

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letters to the editor

Advocacy in the Uniting Church

The excellent letter from Hawker United [New Times, August/ September 2016, page 22] regarding the accuracy of the article on the low level waste facility prompts me to raise the issue of the role of the church in advocacy and the manner in which it is conducted.

My long experience in the area of advocating on behalf of members of organisations on issues to government and others, has taught me that the main role is to act as a vehicle to inform the membership and encourage them to make their own approaches to people of influence.

In doing so it is essential that the information we provide is based on well researched fact; includes, as far as is possible, the fully representative views of those most affected by the issue; is balanced in presenting all sides; is objective; is cognisant of the overall consequences of what we advocate; and is independent of the particular interests or views of the author or the organisation they purport to represent.

Unless we as a church adopt such an approach we run a serious risk of at best alienating parts of our church and general communities, or at worst being seen as a non-objective pressure group which will diminish our impact on those we ultimately seek to influence, such a politicians, industry leaders and others with particular interests.

This overall issue of our role in advocacy is one which needs to be addressed by church management without delay and does not just relate to the content of the New Times.

Surely, as a church, we can do better G. Thomas, Blackwood

A true blessing

What a lovely letter from C. Collins of Taperoo [New Times, August/ September 2016, page 22]. God has truly blessed this family and the Taperoo church.

This letter has really touched my heart.

M. Evans, Berri

Thanks UCAF!

Special thanks to Uniting Church Adult Fellowships for the generous gift of afternoon tea for groups at Kids ’ Camp Out in Victor Harbor on 10 September – fruit, drink boxes and yummy homemade biscuits.

A great example of intergenerational (and inter-cultural) partnerships.

Much appreciated.

M. Gunn, On behalf of the campers and leaders of EKOS (Enfield Kids on Sundays)

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Thanks for your support

The Plains Community Churches (PCC) wish to thank the many individuals, churches and fellowships who have contributed to our [Pinery fire] recovery projects and in particular, the “Greening the Landscape ” project. This has been part of the PCC ’ s attempt to assist families affected by the fire. Donations have been converted into $100 garden vouchers. It has been a great success, with outreach visits to 170 families so far, offering a listening ear and compassionate conversation along with the voucher.

This has been part of a much larger program of assistance since the fire on 25 November 2015. The 27 families who lost their homes in the northern sector received $1,200 each within the first 14 days, thanks to our members and donors far and wide. These 27 families were within the PCC area, but since then we have been able to distribute donated furniture and household items right across the burnt area.

If you drive through our area today you will see that God has provided an abundance of rain – the crops are looking great and many trees are shooting out. Many houses are being rebuilt and families are now able to access our donated furniture. However, there are many trees that are not going to shoot, and there are still many house ruins where families are still finding it too hard to organise removal and rebuilding.

Again – a big thank you to all who have contributed, allowing us to distribute. There are still many families who need garden vouchers so if any others wish to donate, we would be most grateful to hear from you (dkbubner@bigpond.com or 0427 286 121).

D. Bubner, Owen

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letters to the editor

Re-telling a parable

worried, but as Jesus turned to them they were surprised by what he said next.

Jesus: “ Today was a dress rehearsal. When I come again, it will be for real. As leaders of this nation who know something of me and my ways – some of you even call me ‘Lord ’ - I urge you to lead the nation in a new direction that honours me and respects the humanity of every person, including those who come to you seeking refuge. You know the story has two endings. Your response will determine how it ends for this nation. ” P. Shackleford, Payneham South

When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he shall sit upon the throne of his glory.

And before him shall be gathered all the nations; and he shall separate them one from another as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats, the sheep on his right hand, and the goats on the left… … and Jesus came to the nation called Australia, and he asked the leaders to come forward.

Jesus: “ When I came to you seeking your protection, you pushed me away, then locked me up. When I was beaten, abused and raped, you turned away. When I had lost all hope to the point of harming myself, you wrote a note and filed it away. Why did you treat me so? ” Leaders: “ When did we do those things to you? ” Jesus: “ When you did it to any of my brothers and sisters, you did it to me. ” Then some of the leaders shrugged their shoulders as if to say “ Sometimes, in our position, you just have to take hard decisions, especially if you want to keep the voters on side. ” But there were other leaders who ’ d clearly heard the story of the sheep and the goats before and knew how it ended, and they looked

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.

zing Ministry a m A , in la p a h Future C

DPSJAN006-16

web: ww

/chaplains w.airforce.gov.au

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lains@defence.g

email: raaf.chap

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diary

MONDAY FUNDAY. Monday 10 October, 1-5.30pm. Brighton Uniting Church. Monday Funday is an afternoon of fun, games, stories, singing and food for primary school-aged children. Parents, caregivers and siblings are invited to join the group for a shared meal at the end of the day. Cost is $5 per child. For more information, please call 0414 078 639 or email heather.backhouse@hotmail.com HOLIDAY FUN DAY. Wednesday 12 October, 10.30am-12.30pm. Lefevre Uniting Church. This joint project between Lefevre Uniting Church and The Port Church is offered for children aged 2-12. The theme is “ Animal Kingdom ” , and children are invited to come dressed as their favourite animal. Activities include colouring in, playdough, crafts, face-painting, biscuit-icing, a basketball hoop challenge and table tennis. Parents can sit and enjoy a Devonshire morning tea, and a sausage sizzle lunch will be offered for children and parents. For more information, please contact Rev Angie Griffin on 0412 065 803 or email lefevreminister@internode.on.net

SA training program educates participants on their legal obligation to report reasonable suspicions and concerns about child abuse and neglect. All church leaders, elders and members of church council are encouraged to participate in training, and to maintain their knowledge in this area. For more information, please email the Called to Care Training and Development Officer at calledtocare@ sa.uca.org.au or call 8236 4248. To register for this course, please visit sa.uca.org.au/called-to-care/training-courses MINLATON STRAWBERRY FAIR. Saturday 22 October, 2pm.

Minlaton Uniting Church. A strawberry fair will be held in the church yard at Minlaton Uniting Church on Saturday 22 October at 2pm.

The event includes a sausage sizzle, games, stalls, music, a bouncy castle, strawberries/pavlova and cream/ice cream, plus tea and coffee.

For more information, please contact Anita Treasure on 8853 2825 or email anitat@internode.on.net

SPRING FAIR. Saturday 15 October, 9am-1pm. Grange Uniting Church.

This event will feature Devonshire morning tea, an exhibition of amazing quilts, an "op-shop bargain day" and a sausage sizzle, along with stalls including Red Cross, Frontier Services, Seeds of Affinity, plants and delicious cakes. For more information, please contact Rev Mark Boyce on 0402 906 780 or email markboyce@optusnet.com.au

FAMILY FAIR. Saturday 22 October, 9am. Gawler Uniting Church.

Stalls, activities and goods will include: craft, cakes, plants, books, brica-brac, clothing, toys, barbecue, Devonshire tea, cappuccino, bouncy castle, face painting, and free kid ’ s activities. Fun for all the family!

For more information, please contact Kelly Littleford on 8522 5269 or email office@gawleruniting.org.au

ALL GENERATION CONCERT. Saturday 15 October, 10.30am-11.30am.

Mount Barker Uniting Church Hall. The 2016 All Generation Concert will focus on the theme "We Are One", and will include old and new Sunday School songs along with adult tunes. The aim is to get all different generations together to praise God, uniting people from different churches and in the community by singing together. For more information, please contact Nova Tattersall on 0432 114 485 or email novatt@hotmail.com

CHURCH FETE AND AUCTION. Saturday 22 October, 9am-1pm.

Dernancourt Uniting Church. The Dernancourt Uniting Church Fete and Auction will be held on Saturday 22 October, starting with a BBQ at 8.30. The stalls will then open at 9am, with the auction starting at 9.30. A wide variety of stalls will be offered! They include: plants, clothing, craft, books, morning tea, homemade cakes, cool drinks, pancakes, hot potatoes, milkshakes, take-home produce, a quilt display, White Elephant, and preloved toys. For more information, please call 8369 0802 or email office@ dernancourt.unitingchurch.sa.org.au

ADARE 60TH ANNIVERSARY. Saturday 15 October, 7.30pm, and Sunday 16 October, 10am. Adare Uniting Church Victor Harbor. Adare Uniting Church in Victor Harbor is celebrating 60 years of service, going forward in faith. A free concert will be held on Saturday 15 October at 7.30pm. A thanksgiving service will be held at 10am on Sunday 16 October, followed by a light lunch in the church hall. For more information, please contact Faye Anderson on 0408 812 550 or email info@adarechurch.org.au

CRAFT FAIR AND MARKETS. Saturday 22 October, 10am-2pm. Trinity Alberton Uniting Church. Many and varied stalls have already been already booked for this day of great fun for the whole family. More stall holders wanted – stalls cost $25 inside or $20 outside. For more information, please contact Anne Thyne on 0417 868 253 or email trinitya@tpg.com.au

AUSSIE BBQ. Sunday 16 October, 12noon. The Corner Uniting Church.

Join The Corner Uniting Church for a great Aussie barbecue to raise funds for Frontier Services, who support families and communities living in remote areas. A BBQ lunch of meat and salad will be followed by ice cream in a cone, cordial, tea and coffee plus great entertainment - all for the bargain price of $5 per person. Don ’ t forget to come dressed for the occasion – Akubra hats, jeans, swaggie hats, etc. For more information, please call 8350 5400 or email administration@thecorner.org.au

AUSTRALIAN CHURCH LIBRARY ASSOCIATION. Saturday 22 October, 10am-3pm. Coromandel Valley Uniting Church. At this meeting, Rev Phil Hoffmann will speak on "Living in four countries at one time" – Phil lived in Palestine and Israel for three years. In the afternoon attendees will be invited to "Come with Raylene Pearce on her 'Night Journeys' to the far corners of the earth" Raylene worked in the Middle East for 10 years with Christian Media. For more information, please contact Joy Belling on 8278 3370 or email joybry@adam.com.au

PLEASANT SUNDAY AFTERNOON. Sunday 16 October, doors open at 1.30pm for a 2.15pm start. Seaton Uniting Church. The event will include music from the Encounter Ensemble, a Christian musical group who love to share the joy of music with others. Afternoon tea will follow. Tickets cost $10 for adults, and $5 for children, with funds raised going towards international mission in the Philippines. For more information, please contact Janet Woodward on 0432 271 757 or email woodwardjanet63@gmail.com

CHILD SAFE ENVIRONMENTS REFRESHER. Sunday 23 October, 1.30-4.30pm. Adare Uniting Church. A half day training session on how to report child abuse and neglect, this session is designed for those who have participated in training in the last three to four years. For more information, please email the Called to Care Training and Development Officer at calledtocare@sa.uca.org.au or call 8236 4248. To register for this refresher course, please visit sa.uca.org.au/called-to-care/training-courses

OCCASIONAL SERIES. Sunday 16 October, 5-7pm. Blackwood Uniting Church. “ The life and thought of people of Spirit ” is an occasional series hosted by Blackwood Uniting Church. In this session, Rev Dr Gary Stuckey from Stillpoint Spirituality Centre will speak about Henri Nouwen. The event has a relaxed style, and wine and cheese are served.

For more information, please contact Jacqui Harrison on 8278 7699 or email office@blackwooduc.org.au

HISTORICAL SOCIETY - EARLY REVIVALISM IN SA. Sunday 23 October, 2.30-4pm. Church of the Trinity. Guest speakers Rev Brian Chalmers and Dr Jenny Hein will join in a conversation about their recent research on early revival movements in SA. Jenny is a lecturer in history at Uniting College and Brian is completing his doctorate on early Methodism in SA. For more information, please contact Dean Eland on 0419 112 603 or email djeland@bigpond.com

CHILD SAFE ENVIRONMENTS TRAINING. Saturday 22 October, 9.30am-4.30pm. Woodville Uniting Church. This full day, Families

AFTERNOON CONCERT. Sunday 23 October, 2-4pm. Marion Uniting Church. Westminster School Orchestra and Strings will perform at a Sunday

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diary

afternoon concert, with proceeds to support church projects. Tickets cost $12 and include afternoon tea. To book or find out more, please contact Margaret on 8296 1603 or Heather on 8357 5650.

UGANDAN VISITOR. Sunday 23 October, 10.30am. Port Vincent Uniting Church & Fellowship are hosting Bishop Joel Kakembo from Uganda at their church service, where he will be the speaker, and an afternoon event.

The church service starts at 10.30am and will be followed by a light lunch. At 1.30pm, Bishop Joel will provide an update on the progress of the Ugandan school and orphanage the Port Vincent Fellowship supports. Everyone welcome. Please RSVP to Margaret on 8853 7353.

STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP. Tuesday 25 October, 10.30am-12noon.

Scots Church Adelaide. Rev Brian and Jill Polkinghorne will speak about their recent working visit to Tanzania. Come early for morning tea and stay for lunch: $5. For more information, please contact Lesley Williams on 0402 006 629 or email ljwilliams36@gmail.com GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT. Friday 28 – Saturday 29 October. Seeds Uniting Church. The Global Leadership Summit provides a world-class experience for leaders who want to get better. Everybody has influence and the responsibility to lead well - change lives and your organisation using your Christ-centred influence. Leverage the Summit to sharpen your skills and unleash the full potential of your team. For more information on the summit and registration costs, or to register for the event, please visit willowcreek.org. au/events/global-leadership-summit/#sa MEGA MESSY CHURCH MEET-UP. Saturday 29 October, 2.30-4pm.

Uniting College for Leadership & Theology Chapel. This event is for all existing Messy Church teams as well as for those who might like to explore ‘what Messy Church is all about ’ . For more information, please contact Jenny Carver on 0419 808 708 or email jen@carver.id.au YACKA FINAL SERVICE. Sunday 30 October, 10am-1pm. Yacka Uniting Church. The final service of worship will be held in Yacka Uniting Church on Sunday 30 October at 10am with worship leader Jan Trengove. A pooled lunch will be held in the supper room of the Yacka Hall following the service.

Anyone with affiliation with Yacka is invited to join with the Yacka-Gulnare congregation for this event. The Yacka-Gulnare congregation continue to worship in Gulnare Church.

FREE CONCERT. Sunday 30 October, 2pm. Cherry Gardens Uniting Church. This free concert will feature the choir of the Cornish Association of South Australia and local guest artist Rebekah Nelson. Afternoon tea to follow. All welcome. This is an “ Every Generation Onkaparinga ” event.

MESSY CORNER. Sunday 30 October, 5.30-6.30pm. Join Messy Church at The Corner Uniting Church for an afternoon of songs, drama, and many craft activities exploring the theme of All Hallows. Fun for the whole family including a shared meal. Cost $10 per family. For more information, please call 8350 5400 or email administration@thecorner.org.au HYMN AFTERNOON. Sunday 6 November, 1.30pm. Mount Barker Uniting Church. This event will include many well-loved hymns accompanied by the church ’ s organ and piano. Renowned pianist Dianne Willis will begin playing at 1.30pm, with the hymn program beginning at 2pm. Admission is free, with an opportunity given to donate to Christian mission. For more information, please contact Marg Hancox on 0427 734 071.

50 YEARS OF ORDINATION. Sunday 13 November, 2-4pm. Wesley Kent Town Uniting Church. Celebration services are held annually to acknowledge the ministry and service of people ordained and/ or commissioned 50 years ago. All are invited to attend this year ’ s event at 2pm on Sunday 13 November. For more information, please visit wesleykenttown.org.au

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CORNISH CHOIR. Sunday 13 November, 2pm. Brighton Uniting Church.

The event includes music shared by a Cornish choir, and will be followed by afternoon tea. Entry costs $10. Please RSVP by calling 8298 6528 or email brightonuniting@internode.on.net BREAK-FAST. Sunday 20 November, 8.30-9.30am. The Corner Uniting Church. Cafe-style relaxed space where people can chat around tables, sharing the daily breaking of the overnight fast. Costs to cover meal: $10 per person. For more information, please call 8350 5400 or email administration@thecorner.org.au STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP. Tuesday 22 November, 10.30am. Scots Church Adelaide. The State Mission fellowship will hear from Heather Maynard, Uniting Church Adult Fellowships President, about her work at Lifeline Adelaide. Please bring your thanksgiving offerings. Morning tea and lunch available.

THE VINES STRAWBERRY FAIR. Friday 25 November, 5.30pm until dark. A local tradition for well over 100 years, this very popular Christmas Fair offers great food, fun activities and a wide variety of stalls for all to enjoy! Father Christmas will be in attendance. Please note that all stalls have been allocated.

CHILD SAFE ENVIRONMENTS TRAINING. Saturday 26 November, 9.30am-4.30pm. Glenunga Uniting Church. This full day, Families SA training program educates participants on their legal obligation to report reasonable suspicions and concerns about child abuse and neglect. For more information, please email the Called to Care Training and Development Officer at calledtocare@sa.uca.org.au or call 8236 4248. To register for this course, please visit sa.uca.org.au/called-to-care/training-courses CELEBRATE - ILLUMINA VOICES. Sunday 27 November, 2.30-4.30pm.

Burnside City Uniting Church. The Illumina Voices end-of-year concert will include many well-loved songs such as "Lift the Wings", "You Raise Me Up", "I Got Rhythm", "What a Wonderful World" and "Angels ’ Carol". For more information, please contact Sue on 0403 911 130 or email friendsofillumina@gmail.com ADVENT TWILIGHT RETREAT. Tuesday 29 November, 6-8pm. St Columba ’ s Church Hall. The Australian Christian Meditation Community SA will hold their annual Advent twilight retreat this year, focussing on the theme “ Immanuel: God is with us ” . Tea, coffee, and a bookstall will be available from 5.30pm. For more information, please contact Dianne at chr.med.southaust@gmail.com CHRISTMAS FOR THE OUTBACK. Saturday 3 December, 1-5pm.

Burnside City Uniting Church. Burnside City will host an exhibition of nativity scenes. Cost is $10 for adults, children are free. Devonshire tea available. Proceeds to the Frontier Services Outback Links program. For more information, please contact Antoinette at petantmorris@hotmail.com GARAGE SALE. Saturday 3 December, 9am-1pm. The Corner Uniting Church. Come grab a bargain and enjoy a sausage and cold drink, or cuppa and scones at The Corner Garage Sale. The garage sale will feature a wide variety of stalls including Christmas gifts and decorations, cakes, plants, clothes, books, toys, and more! For more information, please call 8350 5400 or email administration@thecorner.org.au MESSY CHRISTMAS. Sunday 4 December, 5.30-6.30pm. The Corner Uniting Church. Join Messy Church at The Corner for an afternoon of songs, drama, and many craft activities exploring the theme of Christmas. Fun for the whole family, including a shared meal.

Cost: $10 per family. For more information, please call 8350 5400 or email administration@thecorner.org.au To have your upcoming event published here, email diary@sa.uca.org.au or use the event form at sa.uca.org.au/events/submit-an-event

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History ’ s lessons for the church today Catherine Hoffman

an Pitm Julia

Rev Dr Julia Pitman is at an exciting time in her life – not only has she just given birth to a child, but also to a book. Set to be launched in Canberra in October, ‘Our Principle of Sex Equality ’ : the ordination of women in the Congregational Church in Australia, 1927-1977 provides insights into the historical circumstances that led to the first women being ordained into Christian ministry in Australia. “ The book sets the stories of 15 women ministers in the context of the establishment of Congregationalism in Australia, the women ’ s suffrage movement in wider society and the missionary movement – the encouragement to every member to take responsibility for the life of the church at home and abroad, ” Julia explains. “ It is not just about detailed Biblical arguments for and against women ’ s ordination. It is about how, by the 1920s, the Congregational Church saw women ’ s ordination as part of its response to the call of s colonie ralian could God to mission in Australia and overseas. ” e Aust es in th etings—they ands h rc u nal ch onary me their husb si f regatio en e Cong urch or mis to the ears o ional wom r This is a call that Julia herself first heard at a young ch en in th age. gat ei s wom to speak in r offerings in 90s Congre ings of th 20 18 e d e 18 meet bject f thei In th t permitte th o su to y ts e d B n e o on th em. elect the s amou forAustralia, th g “ I was born and bred in the Uniting Church South e . By e in were n in th er ad gather gs, w hisper d abro spoke only w men who nary meetin eak in these at home an regational other own missio vited to sp movement erica, Cong try, and r o y r daughter and granddaughter of Uniting Church eiministers… ere in d AIm felt inis nar[and] held th ation, and w the missio in Britain an e Christian m rdained in in o in ts th denom le of women evelopmen women to gland, was stralia, the d out f En ro o y Au b e n m d o th a call to ministry in my teenage years. Still, I had to work whether io e of inat spir nt fr elaide, South een 1927 and rd in ra o le of ig s, e m d p i the 1920 advocated th red Kiek, a ralian e. Betw urch, A c if nal Ch British Empir , fifteen Aust the en in n io m W at o i g w 1927 was r ality’ I was just going into the family business or whether genuine of the as founded ngregations, Congre a Junethis P w ardens minion co on 13 r Light G ained in a do in Australia ice in local u el n lo rv h Co ord r se ‘O ex Equ M E N IN T H E L I A g Churc oman ned fo call for me, ” Julia recalls. first w en the Unitin were ordai on. ti h en S TION OF WO IN AUS TR A 1977, w ational wom logical educa g eo Congre field,in and ththe mid “ When I graduated from the University of Adelaide n CH NA missio E O R D IT I O N A L C H—U1R9 7 7 H T story. ir e th 1990s there was a glut of ministers in the Uniting Church in South This is EGA 1927 CONGR an Pitm Australia, and not much support for women candidates. ” Julia Julia went on to further study and worked in social justice, in Adelaide and Canberra, before her call to ministry grew too strong to ignore. She returned to Adelaide to study theology, and later took on a ministry placement. “ An historical perspective helps the church to be humble, modest She is now undertaking her second ministry placement in Mackay, and realistic about its activities today. It helps us to realise that we are Queensland – a position she balances with her work as an Adjunct just a small part of a two thousand-year-old international story of Research Associate at Charles Sturt University, her writing, and now, God ’ s grace, ” she says. her role as a mother. “ Church history helps us to understand how the church came to Despite her busyness, Julia made time to complete this book, feeling be what it is today. Furthermore, it helps us to learn lessons about how its contents have relevance for the life of the Uniting Church today. to be the church today, to learn from the strengths and weaknesses “ The concern of women in the Congregational Church was of the church of the past and to be conscious of ways of operating – not simply with gender equality – that was merely their vehicle sometimes harmful ways of operating – that should be avoided and to for expression of concern for the life of the church as a whole, ” follow the better ways. ” she explains.

To find out more about ‘Our Principle of Sex Equality ’ : the ordination Julia identifies current issues with international mission, full-time of women in the Congregational Church in Australia, 1927-1977 or to ministry and church bureaucracy – noting how the men and women purchase the book, please visit mediacom.org.au or contact MediaCom in the Congregational Church approached these areas in the past, and on 8371 1399. suggesting the Uniting Church may learn from their example.

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fa i t h

Giving voice to hope: the reflections of a Moderator In November, Dr Deidre Palmer will conclude her placement as Moderator and Chairperson of the Uniting Church in South Australia. As she prepares to leave this role, New Times asked Deidre to reflect on the challenges facing the Uniting Church, and her hopes for its future.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing the Uniting Church?

Evangelism and discipleship – giving voice to the hope we have in the Gospel of Christ.

Our sharing of the stories of Jesus, and the hope we have in God ’ s vision for the world, need to be expressed in ways that are authentic to the person, the community and the contexts in which we live and work.

As followers of Jesus, we have narratives of hope and meaning that are life-giving and life-sustaining. Part of our dilemma is how we communicate that story in ways that are appropriate to each context, each relationship, so that it can be heard as good news. We hope that our following of Jesus is woven into the fabric of our work and our relationships, and that people around us observe us and see the compassion of Christ in us.

Living justly and compassionately in our society and wider world. I believe one of our greatest challenges lies in focussing on the world around us, being advocates for justice, addressing violence, and looking at the “ big picture ” of the world around us, rather than our own internal concerns.

This living compassionately is grounded in Jesus ’ call to give our lives for others – avoiding the “ what ’ s in in for me ” culture, and asking what God is calling us to be and do.

Strengthening our commitment to each other. Our community in Christ is a gift from God –we need to attend to our life as a community. This can happen through participation in our wider community events, like Presbytery and Synod meetings, KCO (Kids ’ Camp Out) or SAYCO (South Australian Youth Camp Out).

Strengthening our commitment to one another will include addressing the difficulties that arise from diminishing resources in some places, and the difficulties that have arisen as we have been hurt by each other.

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We need to work through our differences in order to focus on our main goal – witnessing to the reconciling love of God in our world.

Our community life can be one of the greatest witnesses to the love and reconciliation of Christ.

Sustaining our hope as a Church.

What is your hope for the Church – now and in the future?

My hope for the Church is grounded in my conviction that we are God ’ s covenant community – God has called us into being, and God will continue to equip us, guide us, and lead us into the future.

My hope is that we continue to mature as a Church – being ready to experiment with different forms of community life, not being deterred when things don ’ t unfold as we expected. My hope is that we will be who we are called to be – a community centred in Christ, embodying the compassion and hope of God in the world.

Finally, my hope is that in being drawn into the expansive love of God, we find joy and community beyond our wildest imaginings – that we will be generous in our acceptance of one another, and in the way we offer our time and gifts.

Further reflections provided by Dr Deidre Palmer will be published on New Times online at sa.uca.org.au/new-times

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