Celebrating the 13th Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia

16 Pages·2012·1.15 MB·English

August 2012
TTHHEE UUNNIITTIINNGG CCHHURCH IN AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND SYNOD
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Christmas Island Belonging 13th Assembly Day camps Census 2011
Ministry on the frontline Oakey and Roma Life Overfl owing Friendship and beyond Christians spotlighted
congregations
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LLiiffee oovveerrflfl oowwiinngg
Celebrating the 13th Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia
Mardi Lumsden
The 13th Triennial Assembly meeting of During his daily Bible studies, visiting organisations refl ected the Uniting Assembly Standing Committee (ASC),
the Uniting Church in Australia, held in theologian Rev Luna Dingayan, a key Church’s determination to cooperate with to prepare a discussion paper on the
Adelaide from 15 to 21 July, was another leader of the United Church of Christ churches in Asia, the Pacifi c and Africa as theology of marriage within the Uniting
example of the power of people moving in the Philippines, inspired members they pursue fullness of life for all people. Church. This is to be circulated widely
together towards a promised goal. to continually seek renewal, the very Assembly members also promised a with responses and recommendations
essence of a Protestant church. renewed approach to multicultural and sent to ASC before the 14th Assembly.
Almost 300 Uniting Church members
cross-cultural ministry.
gathered to celebrate Life Overfl owing He warned that it is not an easy task Overall, the 13th Assembly was full of
(the Assembly theme) and participate in to follow God’s mission and it required The Assembly was presented with life in abundance. Those present were
decision-making and direction setting a willingness to see, hear and act in three proposals discussing marriage. witness to the Uniting Church at its
for the Uniting Church for the next three accordance with God’s will. A respectful and articulate discussion best, discussing with grace and respect
years. followed and after two days, members diffi cult issues that affect humanity.
Prof Kirsteen Kim, 2012 Cato lecturer,
agreed to acknowledge the Uniting
The continued solidarity with our compared changes in mission practice
Church’s current statement on marriage President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney
Indigenous brothers and sisters was and theology between the Edinburgh
strengthened when Assembly members World Missionary Conference in 1910 and and ask the Doctrine Working Group, and Rev Rronang Garrawurra lead
stopped business to hold a moving the centenary celebration in Edinburgh in after appropriate consultation across the the prayer vigil on the steps of
church and with ongoing liaison with the
prayer vigil of lament for the Stronger 2010. South Australian Parliament,
Futures legislation on the steps of South Wednesday 18 July 2012
The Professor of Theology and World
Australia’s Parliament House.
Christianity at Leeds Trinity University
Standing side by side, new Assembly College believes Christians need a global
President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, conversation about mission to learn from Lord Jesus, life giver,
and Rev Rronang Garrawurra, the new one another and to discern together the release us for reckless discipleship so that
National Chair of the Uniting Aboriginal Holy Spirit among the many spirits in the
and Islander Christian Congress, showed world. love and laughter, grace and goodwill, hope
the nation it is possible to walk together and helpfulness, faith and fruitfulness,
“We are blessed by a spirit that pushes
as one people of God. boundaries, sends, interconnects and wisdom and wonder, will bubble up and
The vigil was a simple but powerful builds global fellowship,” she said. overfl ow changing us and transforming our
gesture that made a marked difference on The participation of more than 50 guests community.
the rest of the meeting.
from 34 overseas churches and partner Amen JULY 2012
I CAME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE, AND HAVE IT ABUNDANTLY. (John 10:10)
22
OPINION JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU
Living abundant lives
Stories
overfl owing
Rev Kaye Ronalds At school she worked hard 84 000 war widows in Sri Lanka
and became a good reader who with few options to feed their
IT is my great honour to WHILE waiting by the carousel helped the younger children. One families. Many are forced to
embark on my fi rst issue of for luggage after our fl ight home day when the Cann River was in turn to prostitution, ironically
Journey – done by way of a from Adelaide, with memories of fl ood she slipped off the log used with the soldiers who killed their
joyful plunge into the deep the 13th Assembly swirling in my as a bridge. An older boy grabbed husbands.
end of the Life Overfl owing at head, I read a text message from her just before she was washed We listened to the Indigenous
the 13th Assembly. my sister announcing that my away, saving her life. people of the Northern Territory
In these pages, we bring aunt had died. For many years Beth worked who have experienced the impact
you many of the inspiring Aunty Beth, a maiden aunt, for her board, cooking the meals of the Intervention strategies,
moments and impressive had lived with my parents for on a wood stove for all of the and wondered whether the
people from that week in most of my life. Hers was a men on the farm. She joined the Stronger Futures legislation will Th e Bible study leader,
Adelaide, and, I hope, a feeling remarkable life. Born in 1920, she CWA and won prizes for her actually address the disadvantage Rev Luna Dingayan from the
for some of the love, vitality, was raised by her grandmother needlework. In her early forties in their communities or just United Church of Christ in the
and justice we found in because her mother died when she fi nally got treatment for her contribute to low morale, Philippines, urged us to listen to
abundance there. she was a fortnight old. She told thyroid condition and eventually resentment and a sense of the cries of God’s people and let
All those qualities were me she was fed on a rag dipped went on the pension. injustice. that expression of need direct
present daily in the respectful in cow’s milk. A precarious start For the next 50 years she Th ere is a need to help close our mission.
and inclusive debate and to life! fi lled her days with knitting, the gaps in education, health and With timely help, many
consensus processes for Her grandfather was building crocheting, cooking and helping life expectancy and to reduce the people would be able to lead
proposals. a weatherboard and corrugated with the children in the extended overrepresentation of Aboriginal safe, productive and abundant
And they were abundantly iron house but it was never family. While there were many and Islander people in prison, lives. My Aunty Beth was given
manifest in the move from fi nished because he died when hard times, Beth was loved by a but perhaps a more abundant life a helping hand to make her life
words to action in expressing Beth was just 12 months old. network of family and friends, cannot be achieved by legislation. healthy, safe, productive and
solidarity with our Indigenous Beth’s father remarried three and was able to have an abundant We heard from Rev Christine abundant.
brothers and sisters over the years later but Beth continued to life using busy and helpful hands Senini, former chaplain on Rev Dingayan commented,
injustices of Stronger Futures. live with her grandmother and to give care and comfort to the Christmas Island, about naming “For as long as people are denied
After a suggestion by Rev uncle on the dairy farm in north- people. and uncovering the sacred in the the fullness of life there will
Niall Reid the prayer vigil at east Victoria. During the 13th Assembly lives of those who have fl ed the never be true peace”.
South Australian Parliament In childhood her thyroid gland in Adelaide we heard about terror of civil war to risk their Being a follower of Christ
was organised overnight, began to malfunction which many people living a precarious lives in boats on treacherous means that we not only get
predominantly by impressive meant that she stopped growing existence in risky circumstances. seas. In a recent service on to enjoy abundant life, we
young adult member Rads at 1.2 metres. Medication would For example, as a result of the Christmas Island, Tamil and are enlisted to contribute to
Sukumar, whose own have helped but they couldn’t fi ghting between Tamil and Sinhalese Christians worshipped making choices that release life
appreciative take on Assembly aff ord it. Sinhalese people there are together in the chapel. overfl owing for all people.
is on page 9.
President-elect Stuart
Where’s the
McMillan’s long-standing
engagement with Indigenous
communities will further Moderator?
strengthen commitment to
Indigenous Australians.
New President Rev
Prof Andrew Dutney This month Rev Kaye
praised the church in his Ronalds will be at many
installation address (see events, including:
page 7) for its diversity and 4 August Multicultural
the value members place on Connections, Ipswich Trinity
inclusiveness.
Uniting Church.
Th e 13th Assembly
reaffi rmed the commitment 5 August Central
of the church to remote Queensland Presbytery visit,
Australia, to Indigenous South Rockhampton Uniting
Australians, to multicultural Church.
and ecumenical ministry,
and to multifaith relations. 8 August Queensland
It gave appreciation to the Heads of Churches meeting,
often unsung deacons, Wynberg, New Farm.
celebrated 120 years of Korean
19 August Silver
partnerships in mission, and
Anniversary of Oxley-Darra
welcomed a statement from 13th Assembly Bible study leader Rev Luna Dingyan, Uniting Church President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney and Uniting Church building.
young leaders. Perla Dingyan. Photo by Mardi Lumsden
As President Dutney
said of the 13th Assembly Snap
at its conclusion: “I’d
describe it as multilingual,
intergenerational, cross-
cultural, ecumenical,
international, prayerful.”
Many impressive
Queenslanders were in that!
attendance, with Rev Stu
Cameron, South Moreton
Presbytery, and Rev Michelle
Cook, Calvary Presbytery,
chosen to sit on the Assembly
Standing Committee. Ms SEND us a photo that captures
Cook will also serve as one of the Journey theme.
Prof Dutney’s two chaplains. Lyndelle Gunton sent this
Looking back over the beautiful image in to capture
week, I feel privileged to have the Life Overfl owing theme. Th e
been witness to such faith Gunton family are currently
in action, and to the gifts on a caravanning trip around
of so many impressive and Australia, and this is Ellie
frankly wonderful people. embracing the setting sun at
And turning my gaze ahead, Gantheaume Point, Broome. In
there is the privilege of these moments life truly does
sharing stories in abundance overfl ow.
with Journey readers, my new September theme: education.
companions, to look forward
to.
Kate Indigo, Editor journeyonline.com.au facebook.com/ twitter.com/ youtube.com/ Subscribe to receive Synchronise stories to
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Director: Mardi Lumsden; Editor: Kate Indigo; Designers: Osker Lau and Holly Jewell; Communications Offi cer/Advertising: Tara Burton; Writer: Dianne Jensen;
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33
JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU NATIONAL NEWS
Christmas Island
CHAPLAINCY is never an easy As most Australians were National Director of
gig. It is a unique and challenging busy organising Christmas UnitingJustice Australia
frontline ministry that throws up celebrations, Ms Senini and the Rev Elenie Poulos accompanied
constant surprises to those brave other chaplains on the small Uniting Church President Rev
enough to listen to the call. island were preparing to support Alistair Macrae and Rev Lorna
Nowhere is this more true a community still coming to Green from the Anglican Diocese
than at the Christmas Island terms with the horrifi c tragedy of Perth to Christmas Island just
Detention Centre, where Rev that took place on their pristine a few weeks before Christine
Malcolm Bottrill, a retired Rocky Point shoreline. concluded her ministry.
minister from the Presbytery of At least 50 lives were lost Her observations echoed the
North Queensland, is taking over that day, including children. Th e refl ections of Ms Senini.
from Rev Christine Senini for the recent tragedies reminded all “Asylum seekers who are
next six months. on the island of the fragility of detained are at risk of losing
Malcolm’s wife Judy hopes human life and the great risk that hope and having the eff ects of
to use her skills as a qualifi ed asylum seekers are prepared to their trauma exacerbated by the
teacher to off er additional undertake on their journey to detention experience. Th e asylum
support to those in the detention Australia. seekers we spoke to told us of the
centre. While the recent tragedies importance of having someone
Malcolm began his ministry made headlines across Australia to talk to who understands
just a few days before the fi rst of and sparked a fresh round of the signifi cance of their faith,
the recent tragedies. vitriolic and devastating political whatever it is, as well as someone
Ms Senini provided pastoral discourse, Ms Senini’s focus was who is independent from the
care and support for the well and truly on the detainees Detention Centre system,” said
detainees and staff for six and the island’s staff and Ms Poulos.
months from December 2011. residents. “Th e compassion that
She was the fi rst Uniting Church “My chaplaincy,” she chaplains bring to Christmas
minister to serve on Christmas explained, “is based on a love Island crosses faith boundaries
Island in the joint Anglican– for all people without judgment; and helps people through this
Uniting chaplaincy, although I am here for those of all faiths part of their journey as they seek Rev Christine Senini and Rev Malcolm Bottrill at Phosphate Hill Camp on
the church has had a presence at or of no faith at all. I am here to a life free from persecution and Christmas Island in June 2012. Photo by Luke Senini
immigration detention centres walk alongside and share with violence.”
for over 20 years. those experiencing hardship, Both Ms Senini and Mr each of them was Christ himself. This placement is funded
Ms Senini’s arrival on grief, anger, anxiety, frustration, Bottrill are living witnesses to the Th is vital role, however, can only through the President’s ‘Care
Christmas Island coincided with and to celebrate joy and example of Christ in Matthew continue through the generosity for Christmas Island’ Appeal.
the one year anniversary of the signifi cant occasions that we all 25:34–35, as he calls us to behave of people who seek to support Donations may be made at
SIEV 221 disaster. have in our lives.” towards strangers as though this important ministry. http://goo.gl/PbXXi
Agencies drive energy effi ciency
Four eco-theologians give faith
THE Queensland Synod is looking for Group Manager, Audit and Risk, responses to the carbon price
better and smarter ways of reducing its UnitingCare Queensland, Garry Pridham,
carbon emissions. said, “Due to the large electricity
With the recent introduction of the consumption in these facilities, the
carbon tax and two pieces of federal Queensland Synod is technically required
REV Dr Clive W Ayre: Th e term climate change adequately will be
legislation, the National Greenhouse and to be reported to the Clean Energy
“carbon tax” in popular debate is highly borne by the poorest and most
Energy Reporting Act and the Energy Regulator, but as it is not a large producer
misleading, even mischievous, and vulnerable.
Effi ciency Opportunities Act, UnitingCare of emissions it will not be ‘caught’ by the
suggests this is primarily about money. Christians cannot avoid this social
Queensland and Wesley Mission Brisbane carbon tax regime and will not have to pay
It is about protecting the justice challenge. It derives from the
have been obliged to seek ways to reduce carbon tax.
environment for the future. gospel mandate to love our neighbour.
energy consumption and increase energy “However, as we are a large consumer
Faith itself involves a cost; it has a It cannot be acceptable to argue
effi ciencies. of electricity we will face estimated price
cross at its heart, and we can’t expect to that we should not lead the way
Yet, as Colleen Geyer, Director of increases of around 10 per cent if, as
avoid that in responding to the divine globally in making changes because
Mission, UnitingCare Queensland and predicted, energy producers pass on their
call to care for creation. our actions will make little diff erence.
Chair of the UnitingCare Queensland carbon tax costs to consumers.
Rev Dr Jason John: Th e biggest Th at would not only abrogate our
Sustainability Coordination Team, makes “Th is would have a large impact on our
disappointment is that the Australian social responsibility (as a relatively rich
clear, this is a welcome opportunity rather services if we take no action.”
Government has been forced to sell the nation) to do the right thing, but would
than a matter of compliance. UnitingCare Queensland has
new carbon price to us on the basis that be a self-interested proposition that
“We are committed to being established a Sustainability Coordination
it won’t cost us anything. demeans our nation.
environmentally sustainable not because Team to develop a group-wide alignment
We cannot continue under the Miriam Pepper, Uniting Earthweb:
we have to be but because it’s who we are.” of each of the service group’s sustainability
illusion that we can renew God’s Th e Australian Government argues
She notes that one of the fi ve plans and to identify opportunities for
creation without sacrifi ce. We must that the carbon pricing mechanism
objectives of the joint UnitingCare group-wide initiatives.
ensure that it is not the poor, future is the most effi cient way to reduce
Queensland strategic plan is “to “Our aim is to reduce our electricity
generations, and God’s other creatures carbon pollution. However, experiences
be fi nancially sustainable and usage without aff ecting our services –
who pay, while a few of us reap the internationally with such mechanisms
environmentally responsible” with a UnitingCare Queensland’s priority is
benefi ts. suggest that they do little to drive a
long-term commitment “to developing, to be a leading organisation in person-
Because we encounter in worship signifi cant shift away from fossil fuels.
implementing and measuring the centred care while being environmentally
and prayer the one who reminds us that Meanwhile, the mining of coal
outcomes of our environmental practices.” responsible,” Mr Pridham said.
life does not consist in the abundance and gas in Australia is expanding at
“Th e Uniting Church has made a Work is underway to measure current
of possessions, Christians should be at an alarming rate – with detrimental
number of statements on the environment energy consumption, with the aim of
the forefront of the call for repentance, impacts on local communities and
over the years, and these are important identifying opportunities for improving
and the sacrifi cial attitude required to ecologies, farming land and the climate.
foundations for us in the work we do in energy effi ciency, reducing consumption,
serve and protect God’s garden planet. A halt to this expansion, concerted
this area.” and measuring future reductions.
Rev Dr Noel Preston AM: Christian investment into energy effi ciency
Due to the energy-hungry services Th is major initiative is being
focus in the past has been on human and renewable energy, and ultimately
of hospitals and aged-care facilities, coordinated by UnitingCare Queensland
welfare and not on the total natural an economic model that pursues
UnitingCare Queensland and Wesley on behalf of the Synod, with a working
environment. suffi ciency rather than endless growth
Mission Brisbane account for over 90 party consisting of members from each
Th e brunt of the dangerous are needed for the benefi t of all.
per cent of the energy consumed by the UnitingCare service group and Synod
consequences of failing to address
Queensland Synod. It is here that the agency.
search for energy effi ciencies will be
concentrated.
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Journey, August 2012 Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association www.pmsa-schools.edu.au A ministry of the Uniting and Presbyterian Churches, providing excellence in education in a Christian and caring environment.
44
INTERNATIONAL NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU
When
neighbours
become
good friends
Dianne Jensen appointed Moderator of the
United Church in the Solomon
THE ties that bind the Uniting Islands) and their wives as part
Church in Australia to our Pacifi c of a leadership development
neighbours run deep. program sponsored by Rev Wilfred Kurepitu, Bishop Bernard Siai, Maramas Wendy Siai and Roselyn Kurepitu,
Th e Australian Methodist UnitingWorld. and General Secretary of the Queensland Synod Dr Shirley Coulson. Photo by Osker Lau
Church began missionary work While in Brisbane, the group
in Papua New Guinea (PNG) met with Journey staff and shared congregations. “Th e church is negotiations facilitated by YAP in build capacity at every level.
in the nineteenth century and some of their hopes and concerns still a core part of society and Tari. In both the Solomon Islands Th e Solomon Islands, for
in the Solomon Islands in 1902. for the future. has an important role in peace and PNG, the importance of the example, is on track to meet two
And through the decades which Both new church leaders building,” he said. church as the provider of basic of the Millennium Development
followed and the challenges have personal experience of Mr Kurepitu was the services cannot be overestimated. Goals (MDG4: reduce child
posed by confl icts, political the devastating confl icts which superintendent minister of the In communities where most mortality and MDG5: improve
change and natural disasters, almost tore apart their countries, Honiara circuit in Guadalcanal people have limited access to maternal health), thanks to
strong links have been forged and of endemic tribal strife. It is when ethnic tension fi rst broke health, education and transport, mobile clinics, education and
between the three national no surprise to fi nd that one of the out in 2002, and took part in the church plays a pivotal basics such as clean water.
churches. key roles for the church in both negotiations with rebel forces. role in delivering services and In PNG, amid the political
Th e importance of the nations is in reconciliation and In neighbouring PNG, with facilitating local training – much turmoil, the United Church’s
relationship was underscored mediation. around 600 000 members of it in partnership with agencies grassroots experience has given
during the July visit of Pacifi c “Ninety-fi ve per cent spread across 11 diverse such as UnitingWorld. it access to key government
Church leaders Bishop Bernard of Solomon Islanders are regions, the church has been Building capacity within initiatives, such as the newly
Siai (Moderator-Elect of the Christian,” said Mr Kurepitu, instrumental in bringing communities and within the formulated 40-year plan for
United Church in PNG) and whose denomination counts together warring factions, church is fundamental. development.
Rev Wilfred Kurepitu (newly 60 000 people in more than 200 especially in Bougainville “Our biggest problem in PNG Th e cautious, consensual
between secessionists and the is the management of resources approach hasn’t stopped these
government. and fi nances,” said Mr Siai. Christians from speaking out,
Th e Young Ambassadors “We have a vision now, to but when they do speak, they do
for Peace (YAP) program has make sure the church becomes a it with the power of combined
been conducting peace-building good steward. Training is a key churches such as the National
workshops in the Bougainville issue.” Council of Churches.
area for more than six years. Both churches have achieved “Together, we can speak
In 2008, 32 warring tribes striking results under challenging prophetically to the government
came together in the Southern circumstances, working quietly as a voice for the church,” said Mr
Highlands to sign permanent but eff ectively with local, national Kurepitu.
peace treaties, following lengthy and international partners to
Churches step up to
challenges of HIV/AIDS
Brisbane, Saturday 11 August
BERNARD
A new report has highlighted the churches within Africa are from people who share their
vital role of churches worldwide usually open about the need lives and homes with families at
KIRKPATRICK in tackling stigmatising attitudes to use contraception as well as the forefront of the HIV/AIDS
toward people living with HIV/ promoting fi delity. epidemic in Zimbabwe.
AIDS, and praised prominent “Th ere are huge billboards Matthew Rusike House forms
church leaders for shedding light promoting both these approaches part of a caring community
Organist for World Youth Day 2008, on previously taboo areas of everywhere within Zimbabwe aiming to respond to the one
Director of Music, St Patrick’s Cathedral sexual health. and Zambia, where our church in six children who have been
Faith organisations have partners are supporting people orphaned as a result of HIV/
Parramatta
sometimes struggled to with HIV/AIDS,” he said. AIDS in Zimbabwe.
Director of Music, Good Shepherd communicate eff ectively “Th e philosophy of the Th e children, many of them
with communities about the Methodist Church is to raise HIV/AIDS positive themselves,
Seminary
treatment of HIV/AIDS due to awareness and to work pastorally live with “mamas” who nurture
traditional teaching on sexual to support people who have HIV/ them and provide them with
will showcase the new Allen organ abstinence before marriage and AIDS. Th e method is to do so a genuine sense of family. Th e
installation in the recently renovated contraception, especially in within the community wherever children attend school within the
countries with high HIV rates. possible. village and help grow their own
church of St Thomas the Apostle, A new report by development “It’s been very eff ective vegetables alongside others from
Perth St, Camp Hill, Brisbane. consultants Plurpol, based and transformative not just the local community.
in Auckland, New Zealand for families but for whole “Our fi rst priority is to care
Church musicians workshop highlights the signifi cant communities.” for those who suff er,” said
infl uence of faith leaders and At Matthew Rusike House UnitingWorld National Director
10.00 – 11.00am praises changing attitudes toward on the outskirts of Harare, Kerry Enright.
the way such infl uence is being Tasmanian Anthea Maynard “But we are also committed to
Recital exerted. is working alongside the alleviating the distress of those
In Africa, where the Uniting community nurse to help who suff er because of the stigma
2.00 – 3.00pm
Church works with Methodist educate local people about associated with diseases like
partners, the infl uence of the the importance of protecting HIV/AIDS.
Please phone Jim on 0412 758 651
church is profound. themselves against HIV/AIDS. Th e approach of our church
for more information. Geoff Dornan, International Along with her family – partners is to care for people
Programs Coordinator for husband Grant, and three within community settings as
www.allorgans.com.au UnitingWorld’s Relief and children Abbey, Clare and well as to educate people about
Development, said that Bride – Anthea will spend a year the causes of the disease and the
mainstream protestant swapping skills and learning best way to avoid it.”
Journey, August 2012
55
JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU SYNOD NEWS
Dayboro: alive Once projects had the
go-ahead, they were swiftly
implemented.
If this sounds like a recipe for
chaos, Dr Inglis suggests that it is
and kicking in fact the opposite. Encouraging
diverse opinions and allowing
confl ict to rise not only validates
the ideas, faith and intellect of
the congregation, it provides the
catalyst for critical thinking, he
said.
Dianne Jensen Dr Inglis was the leader of a Governance may seem to
team that brought a new dynamic be unrelated to church growth,
“A constantly growing to the organisation, fi rmly rooted but Dr Inglis believes that
congregation with increasing in the empowerment of the lay open government and good
infl uence in the community” people, and a deep connection communication foster both
sounds like the good old days with the local community. inclusiveness and tolerance, key
when women wore hats to Determined to prove that elements in engendering a broad
church and sermons were their church could not only ownership of mission.
published in newspapers. survive but thrive, Dayboro “Belonging and ownership
It is in fact the description turned its back on perceived belong together,” he said.
of an ordinary Uniting Church wisdom about how churches Once it understood and
community which refused to ought to operate. agreed on its mission, the
slide gracefully into history. “Much of what we did broke congregation began to engage
Dayboro is a rural, urban away from traditional decision- with groups as diverse as
fringe community with a making models, and shortened Blue Care, the local school,
population of about 3000. the lines of governance and local businesses and service
Eleven years ago the Uniting action,” said Dr Inglis, a former organisations, other welfare
Church congregation was in academic who drew on his groups, politicians and health
decline, and sustained by just a experience in education and care professionals.
core of residents. process management. Th ey asked them how the
Closure and reallocation of In practice, it meant church could help.
resources was advised. beginning with a survey to fi nd Working with these key
Dr Paul Inglis, who recently out what people wanted, and players, Dayboro developed a
retired as Dayboro community then identifying what was most family support and emergency Dr Paul Inglis, retired community minister at Dayboro Uniting Church.
minister, said today the church important. relief ministry linked to the
Photo by Dianne Jensen
is a “vibrant, engaged Th is was backed up by community network, and
congregation that has risen research into the profi le of the initiated its own programs that
to the top in community local community. brought people and services into In short, Dr Inglis said the actions … those conducted
esteem, is known well beyond Th e congregation became the church facilities. congregation began “reinstating outside its walls. Dayboro
its boundaries for its work, primary decision-making unit, Alongside this, the the centrality of the church in Uniting Church has tried to
runs programs for all ages, ditching the Church Council and congregation expanded their the life of the community, and its relate to the life of the local
and supports its home and introducing a process of “whole children’s ministry and study relevance. community to the fullest extent
overseas missions physically and of congregation” facilitation for groups, grew their leadership “For most of the community, a possible, and it has brought great
economically proportionally well critical conversations whenever a group and increased their church’s integrity and credibility results,” he said.
above the average congregation.” decision needed to be made. preaching team. is established from its visible
Stepping outside the comfort zone
Dianne Jensen to those pilgrims who have made to build understanding, trust and “Healing has happened, and school’s third annual cultural
their way north since the Uniting friendship between the diff erent people have moved back, but the pilgrimage to the area.
PILGRIMAGE is a journey of Church launched AboutFACE groups. scar that it left is still there.” As well as fi shing with
discovery; of people, places and (Faith and Cultural Exchange) in A group of eight people An afternoon with a young traditional owners and learning
self. the 1980s. from Indooroopilly Uniting girl collecting shells, seaweed about the cultural practices
In spite of their remote Th e program is a national Church is currently refl ecting pods, and ripe Simothsi berries and the way of life in the local
location on western Cape activity of the Uniting Church in on their pilgrimage in early was a cherished experience community, the students spent
York, the residents of Mapoon, Australia, and facilitates urban July, organised through Uniting for Christabel Carvolth from time with local teenagers,
Napranum and Weipa (Calvary Christians spending time in Aboriginal and Islander Christian Indooroopilly. including camping and sharing
Presbytery) have become hosts Indigenous communities. It aims Congress deacon Rev Michelle “It was, and is, humbling to communion at Eliot Falls in the
Cook and youth worker James have been invited and shown Jardine River National Park,
Hughes. around, not as tourists, but as about 900km north of Cairns.
Assistant in Nursing Michael individuals, part of the church, School chaplain Graham
Henley was struck most by the who are invited to develop a Bartley described “a real intensity
sense of community that he partnership,” she said. of relationship” that occurs
witnessed, “a strong feeling of Ms Cook said, “While the between the groups during the
connectedness between everyone congregations know they are two weeks, with the visiting
who lived there” both within the part of the whole church, it is students emerging with a sense
local area and the church. encouraging and strengthening of hope and possibility for
Th e Indooroopilly visitors to have a concrete example of Indigenous people.
spent time with the local youth people’s interest and prayers. James Hughes sees benefi ts for
group as well as meeting some “Elders in Mapoon were so his young participants as well.
of the Elders of Mapoon and excited to have people learn “Th ere is a very strong
Napranum to hear their stories, palm weaving, to show them connection (between the two
“both the beautiful and painful bush foods and to have an eager groups) that we are young people
ones alike”, said Mr Henley audience for their stories.” with a lot of the same issues and
Th e legacy of their forced Seven teenagers from Scotch concerns and we can learn from
dispossession during the early Oakburn College (a Uniting each other,” he said.
1960s is part of the ongoing story Church school in Launceston) “It really enriches the lives on
of Mapoon. recently returned from the both sides.’’
A community rises from ashes
individual homes, were
torched or demolished.
MAPOON’S story is a footnote Th e community achieved Some residents vowed
in the history of church national prominence when the to return, and from the late
missions, government policies mission was closed and the 1970s, people began coming
and Indigenous land rights. inhabitants removed to Bamaga back.
Mapoon Presbyterian in 1961–63, following the In 2000, Mapoon was
Mission was established on discovery of bauxite deposits formally recognised as a Deed
western Cape York in 1891, on Cape York Peninsula and the of Grant in Trust Community
following decades of warfare granting of mining leases on with status similar to a shire
between cattlemen and land occupied by the Weipa and council. Under this system, a
explorers and the traditional Mapoon Missions. locally elected council governs
owners: Tjungundji, Yupungatti Most of the buildings, the community.
Communion at Mapoon, using coconut and coconut juice.
and Tanikutti. including the church and
Photo by Michael Henley
Journey, August 2012
66
SYNOD NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU
Home is where
leadership of one minister. Th e
Community Church at Maclagan
is also part of the cluster, and the
ministry is shared by Anglican,
the heart is Presbyterian and Uniting Church
ministers and lay leaders.
Olive Frizzell, long-time
member, Oakey: I was
confi rmed in the Presbyterian
A sense of belonging is worshipping in the Valley is Church at Allora when I was
fundamental to our health and that it doesn’t matter if you are 16 years old. I was a member
happiness, and this is as true for Catholic or Calothumpian … of the Presbyterian Church in
churches as it is for individuals. regardless of who leads worship, Oakey until it joined the Uniting
National Church Life Survey we all belong, and we treasure Church 35 years ago. My faith in
indicators of healthy churches everyone’s contribution. Anyone God and the love of the church
stress the importance of a who saw the working bee in the has enriched my life, and helped
warm and consistent welcome, middle of the fl ood this year, me through serious health
nurturing worship, and an from this wonderful community problems with my husband over
enriching sense of community. that supported me and my family many years. My life has been
Journey asked Uniting Church when my husband passed away, full, fi lled by the friendship made
members, both long-timers and would understand how precious with other members and caring
newcomers, why they belong to belonging is. ministers.
their church. Jodie Beitz, new member, Shannon Wessling, new
Maranoa Uniting Church Roma: In addition to my faith, member, Oakey: I will never
cluster is comprised of six I am drawn to our church in forget the fi rst time I went to the
communities in an area Roma by the sheer pleasure of Oakey Uniting Church. I was
approximately 200km square. the beautiful and kind-hearted greeted with smiling faces happy
Roma is the centre of the region, people who attend the church. to see me. I’m in the place where
and hosts a Uniting/Lutheran Th ey have all welcomed me as God wants me to be at this time,
congregation. Wallumbilla and part of their community with and I’m glad I listened to God
Yuleba are to the east, Mitchell open arms, and renew my faith and made the change. Been here
to the west and Injune and in God each and every week, just seven months and counting …
Arcadia Valley to the north. Th e by being the people they are and
region is experiencing a new living by his word. Th e words
understanding of community of our Reverend Linda Hamill
because of the impact of coal inspire and assist in motivating Top left: Olive Frizzell, Oakey
seam gas. our parish, and provide us all Top right: Jodie Beitz, Roma
Gail Price, long-time member, with a sense of belonging. Below: Shannon Wessling and
Arcadia Valley: Seems to Oakey Uniting Church cluster Mia, Oakey, at their confi rmation
me that “community” and is comprised of the Oakey, and baptism. Photos courtesy of
“belonging” are one and the Jondaryan and Goombungee the congregations
same. Th e lovely part about congregations under the
Dalveen closes its doors after 57 years
Trinity welcomes Dr Aaron Ghiloni Th eological College. Th e
curriculum has a distinct focus
responding to the ‘challenges and THE small rural church of to toll the beginning and end
DR Aaron Ghiloni has joined completing further postgraduate possibilities for the proclamation Dalveen in the Downs Presbytery of the shift at their brickworks,
Trinity Th eological College as qualifi cations in Islamic Studies. of the gospel in secular and has closed its doors after 57 years was presented back to the
Director of Studies – Mission, He said that as a theological pluralist Australia’. of worship. Dalveen community during the
Ministry, and Leadership, and scholar, he is impressed by the “Th us, my classes in areas More than 50 people packed decommissioning service.
Director of Field Education. foundational role “scholarly such as leadership, mission into the traditional weatherboard In his address, Pastor Dudley
Dr Ghiloni’s work is in interpreters” play in the Uniting studies, and pastoral theology building on 23 June for the Abraham gave thanks to the
Christian theology in dialogue Church. will be in dialogue with these fi nal service to remember and people who had started the
with the humanities and social “With the Basis of Union, I cultural currents. We will give thanks for fellowship and church, and to those who had
sciences. His new book John am heartily ‘open to an informed look at how Christian thought worship during countless Sunday kept it going.
Dewey among the Th eologians faith’ and I believe it is crucial is challenged and enhanced services, weddings, baptisms, “We believe we are the church,
is a conversation between to ‘learn to sharpen [our] through contact with other faiths confi rmations and funerals. a body of believers going out in
educational theory and Christian understanding … by contact with and other disciplines.”   Th e establishment of the the community and witnessing
doctrine. contemporary thought.’ I applaud Dr Ghiloni has extensive church in 1955 was a community for Christ,” he said. “Let this
He teaches the college’s the Queensland Synod’s desire to practical experience in teaching aff air, with land donated by P. not be the end of the life of the
popular “Th eology of Religious ‘confess the Lord in fresh words and educational leadership, and Cameron, timber for the polished church, but the beginning of a
Pluralism” course. and deeds’ through the Together has been a high school teacher fl oors and walls supplied by new life in the community.”
From 2009 to 2011 he on the way, enriching community and administrator, youth and local sawmill owners Cliff and Presbytery Minister, Rev
taught on the Abrahamic process. children’s pastoral minister, Stan Pidgeon, and construction Sharon Kirk, and Church Council
traditions at Th e University of “I think this is what we and an adult education offi cer by nine local volunteers. Th e members Judy Middleton and
Queensland and is currently are emphasising at Trinity (including for the Presbytery historic bell, also donated by the Susan Evans assisted in the
of Moreton Rivers). He brings Pidgeons, and originally used decommissioning service.
a broad ecumenical outlook
to his teaching, having served
within the United Methodist
Church, the Anglican Church
of Australia, and a Pentecostal
congregation.
Trinity Principal Rev Dr Geoff
Th ompson said the college is
delighted to have Dr Ghiloni join
the faculty.
“Together with his brief to
expand the college’s engagement
with issues of leadership, he is
well suited to help foster the
college’s mission of producing
visionary leaders who have
a ‘theologically-formed
commitment to the Christian
community and discipleship
Dr Aaron Ghiloni outside Trinity Theological College formation’. ” Members of Dalveen Uniting Church, Bev Butler, Pam Mitchell, Allyson
in Auchenfl ower, Brisbane. Photo by Osker Lau Abraham, Cath Brown and Dulcie Welsh.
Photo by Joyce Abraham
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JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU 13TH ASSEMBLY
President’s ignore, and what they think of
any pronouncements that their
religion’s offi cial leaders make.
People don’t take their religious
affi liation as “given”, but choose
it.
installation Th is isn’t the orderly
transmission of a denominational
tradition from one generation
to the next. It’s the wonderfully
dis-orderly creation of tradition
by a generation that has no
address clear memory of a shared origin
but a strong sense of belonging
together through a shared vision.
Th is is post-denominationalism
and it is part and parcel of
the Uniting Church’s life and
ministry.
In his installation address at the Adelaide
Th e Basis of Union had
Entertainment Centre, new Uniting Church President envisaged not a unit-ed church
– complete, packaged, distinct
Rev Professor Andrew Dutney praised the church – but a unit-ing church –
provisional, a continual work
for its diversity and the great value church members
in progress, “an interim way of
place on its inclusiveness. The following is an excerpt being ‘church’ on the way to the
end of denominationalism as a
of his installation address. whole.”
In 1977, the Uniting Church
was formed by people from Newly installed President, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, shows his sense of
I’VE been introducing the introduce their workers and three strong denominational humour and good nature as he chairs the 13th Assembly meeting
Uniting Church to people for volunteers to the Uniting Church traditions agreeing to leave their
most of my adult life – its history, and its ministry in Australia. denominations behind to be aspects do you most like like most about our church is its
vision, values and structures. Or again, as migration patterns together. about the Uniting Church as a inclusiveness.
I even wrote a booklet called continue to develop and change And over the last 35 years the denomination? It turns out that our
“Introducing the Uniting Church we’re delighted to welcome Uniting Church has continued Th e list of options was fairly congregations know
in Australia”. I go to Uniting more and more people from to be formed and reformed long. It mentioned just about and like what lies deepest in their
Church agencies to brief boards. Asia, the Pacifi c, Africa and by people from many nations, everything you could think of DNA as Christian communities
I go to Uniting Church schools elsewhere into the Uniting cultures and denominations that we’re involved in through and uppermost in the vision
to do professional development Church. Th e denominations learning “to forget who they are our agencies. of the mission of God which
with teachers. I go to Uniting that they knew and loved in and remember whose they are.” But it turned out that the list the Uniting Church lives to
Church councils and committees their home countries generally Every fi ve years, a National was pretty much superfl uous. participate in “that reconciliation
to induct new members into the don’t have congregations Church Life Survey is conducted Of the 19 768 Uniting Church and renewal which is the end in
nature of the church they’ve been here and so they look to the throughout Australia. attenders who answered view for the whole creation”.
elected to lead. Uniting Church for ways to Th is time, the Uniting that question nearly 71 per It is the task of this 13th
And I don’t see this need build Christian communities Church took the opportunity cent indicated that the thing Assembly not to shore up a
for introductions slowing up appropriate to their needs. And to commission some survey they liked most about the denominational identity, not to
any time soon. For one thing, they look for opportunities to questions of its own. While the UCA as a denomination is its protect our brand, but to hear
the church’s health, welfare get to understand their new results are still being processed, “inclusiveness of all types of what the congregations we serve
and educational agencies are denomination – its vision, its a preliminary report has been people”. Just to compare, the next have said to us through the
continuing to grow and employ ministry, and how they can share produced in time for this most commonly chosen option NCLS report and to lift our eyes
many people who are committed in it. Assembly. was “provision of community to that horizon of “reconciliation
to the agency’s mission but have Religion in Australia is One of the questions included services”, at just under 25 per and renewal ... for the whole
no affi liation with the Uniting intensely voluntary. People in the NCLS preliminary report cent. creation” as we attend to our
Church. So the agencies are choose a religion for themselves, was this: No, the votes are in. Th e work.
looking for opportunities to what parts they’ll adopt or Which of the following message is clear. Th e thing we
Resurrection
optimism
The following is an excerpt of the address Rev Alistair Macrae,
Uniting Church President from 2009 to July 2012, delivered to
the 13th Assembly on Monday 16 July 2012.
ALONG with the worldwide Christian of hope”. Not hope for mere institutional
Church we are in a time of fundamental survival but for the ultimate victory of
transition, with all its challenges and love over hate, peace over violence, hope
opportunities. over despair.
We should continue to ask what Th ank you, Uniting Church, for
Christians have asked in every crisis: entrusting me with this role. Please forgive
What is possible, even in the valley of the my mistakes and omissions and any words
shadow of death, in this liminal, uncertain or actions that have been unworthy of the
space, for those who trust that the church or the gospel.
Shepherd God can provide water in the You gave me the privilege of seeing a
desert, bring hope out of fear, liberation broad cross-section of this church and I
out of paralysis, life out of death? have been blessed with so many glimpses
In the early church, and ever since, of God’s Kingdom, God’s new creation,
believers confronted by massive barriers in and through the worship, witness and
have recalled the mystery of faith which service of this church. While we are a
we intone every time we gather at the fl awed church, nevertheless God’s grace
table of the Lord: “Christ has died. Christ is so often manifest and I encourage us
is risen. Christ will come again!” A crack all to remain committed, faithful and
in the wall appears and the light of hope imaginative as we participate with God
shines through again. New worlds of until that blessed day when the walls of
possibility open up and fi re the hearts, separation will be no more and God of
minds and imaginations of believers. our crucifi ed and risen Lord will make all
What distinguishes hopefulness from things new. Outgoing President Rev Alistair Macrae passes the stole to new President Rev Prof Andrew
mere optimism is the central Christian A full version of both of these speeches Dutney during the installation service at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre,
claim of resurrection. We are “prisoners is available at http://goo.gl/2yE0R Sunday 15 July 2012
Journey, August 2012
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13TH ASSEMBLY JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU
Agreement on marriage Th is statement was as follows. for same-gender relationships
Th e Assembly resolved: • to circulate the paper
1. To acknowledge that the widely, and specifi cally to
current position on marriage UAICC National Committee,
is set out in Assembly Minute synods, chairpersons of national
97.31.12 conferences, presbyteries,
THE 13th Assembly was Th e comments and concerns Discussion followed the 2. Noting the desire for UAICC regions, Uniting
presented with three proposals of the fl oor were noted by the presentation, and though some respectful conversation within Network, the Assembly of
discussing marriage on Th ursday Facilitation Group so that they amendments were made, the the diverse community of Confessing Congregations,
19 July. could formulate an amended fl oor of the Assembly reached an the church, and the current congregations, agencies and
A respectful and articulate proposal to be presented the agreement to acknowledge the public debate about same- institutions of the Uniting
discussion followed as Assembly following day. current position on marriage of gender marriage, to ask the Church, requesting responses to
members engaged with the On the afternoon of Friday the Uniting Church in Australia, Doctrine Working Group, after the Working Group by a date to
proposers: Rev Avril Hannah- 20 July, the Facilitation Group as per the minutes of the 8th appropriate consultation across be determined by the Standing
Jones and Jenny Hayes, Port- presented proposal 71, a new Assembly in 1997, with further the church and with ongoing Committee; and
Phillip West Presbytery (proposal proposal which was written work to be done by the Doctrine liaison with the Standing • to summarise responses
31/amended to 64); Rev Lu to combine and amend the Working Group between now Committee: and bring recommendations
Senituli and Rev Gwen Fisher, previously presented proposals and the next Assembly. • to prepare a discussion to the Standing Committee by
South Moreton Presbytery on marriage and relationships An Interim Record of the paper on the theology of November 2014, to enable the
(proposal 43); and Rev Carol (31, 43, 46, 64) according to the decision made by the Assembly marriage within the Uniting Standing Committee to bring a
Bennett and Rev Alison Whish comments and concerns of the was printed for members on Church, and explore its report to the 14th Assembly in
(proposal 46). Th ursday session. Saturday 21 July. implications for public covenants 2015.
Continuing
the covenant
A NUMBER of proposals to the was acceptable to Australia’s First
13th Assembly related to the Peoples.
Uniting Church’s relationship On the fi nal day of business
with its Indigenous members. at the 13th Assembly, members
One proposal called on church expressed a clear intent to
councils, boards and agencies to continue to grow the covenanting
uphold the views of the Uniting relationship with the UAICC.
Aboriginal Islander Christian Th e 12th Assembly approved
Congress (UAICC) as they the revised preamble to the
make decisions about proposed Uniting Church in Australia’s
changes to the constitution by constitution to recognise
the Australian Government Aboriginal and Torres Strait
which will go to a referendum. Islander people as the First
Th is was in the spirit of the Peoples.
covenant relationship the church Th ree years on, the 13th
established with its Indigenous Assembly agreed to establish
people in 1985, said Rev Tim a working party to evaluate
Matton-Johnson, Deputy Chair progress in the covenanting
of the UAICC, and would relationship.
progress the covenant in positive In moving the proposal,
ways. Denise Chapman said it is
“When it comes to important important that the covenanting
decisions like this for First relationship is deeper than just
Peoples, we need to trust the words on paper.
people for whom this is a heart “Th is agreement needs to
issue.” have an impact on the actions
Holly Wright (Riverina of the councils of the church to
Presbytery, NSW/ACT) said implement the covenant and
Rev Shayne Blackman, UAICC build partnering relationships
Administrator, had assured an with the UAICC in its ministry
earlier Assembly session that it and mission among Aboriginal
did not see this as the church and Torres Strait Islander people
giving the UAICC a “blank who are striving for equal
cheque”. Mr Blackman said outcomes with non-Aboriginal
that the UAICC was a council Australians,’’ she said.
of the church and would make “Th ere is a wealth of
no decision regarding the evidence that Aboriginal people
referendum question wording in Australia are among the UAICC Administrator Rev Shayne Blackman speaking at the 13th Assembly
without consulting the Assembly poorest and most marginalised
Standing Committee. people and governments have Dean Whitaker, who seconded Th e Assembly also passed Stronger Futures legislative
Elenie Poulos, UnitingJustice committed themselves to closing the proposal, said the way a resolution of support for “regime” and ensuring that
Australia National Director, had the poverty, health and education covenanting happened between Indigenous people (proposal 63). the Uniting Church will stand
also previously told the meeting gaps,’’ she said. the two bodies was not replicated Members resolved to work with the UAICC in the name of
that there was a need to raise “Th e Uniting Church has also by any other mainstream church towards 16 actions, many to justice and to support Indigenous
awareness of the referendum and committed itself to closing these in Australia, and of that he was do with calling the Australian leaders.
work to ensure the fi nal wording gaps.” particularly proud. Government to action on
Meet President-elect Stuart McMillan
ON Th ursday 19 July members the members of the Assembly “My leadership style has been
of the 13th Assembly meeting had placed in him. shaped by the Indigenous people
in Adelaide, endorsed Stuart “Over the next three years, I I have spent the last 30 years
McMillan, the Northern Synod will be doing a lot of listening, with,” he said.
Moderator, as President-elect of both to the spirit and to the “So I would want to involve
the Uniting Church in Australia. church to prepare myself,” he those people in real ways, and
Mr McMillan will be said. also to seek a greater involvement
President-elect for the next three He listed his passions as from the multicultural folk in
years before he takes up the the covenant relationship, real ways – that is, to invite them
presidency in 2015 at the 14th encouraging Indigenous to give leadership.”
Assembly in Perth, succeeding leadership, the multicultural Members of the 13th
current President, Rev Prof richness of the church being Assembly of the Uniting Church
Andrew Dutney, who took up the shared with congregations, in Australia also reappointed
role on Sunday 15 July. and the advocacy work of the Rev Terence Corkin as General
Mr McMillan said he was agencies UnitingWorld and Secretary of the Assembly until
deeply humbled at the great trust UnitingJustice. 31 December 2015. President-elect Stuart McMillan is congratulated
by President Rev Prof Andrew Dutney
Journey, August 2012
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JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU 13TH ASSEMBLY
Putting the Gen-Y into
Assembly and the hip
into fellowship
Rads Sukumar prayerful discernment and the future leaders of the church.
humility, despite our incredible But people applauded. It was
CALL me a Church Nerd if you diversity. Th e image of one good to reassure them that the
will, but the 13th Assembly, and fl ock following one shepherd church isn’t dying, that there
my fi rst, was really cool. Perhaps echoed throughout the whole are young leaders in the church,
it was the ridiculous amount of conference, as we dealt with already loving and serving. Th ere
food consumed. Perhaps it was issues that many of us diff ered was a lot of love in that Plenary
the amazing co- Gen Ys I met on, and as we prayed and sang. Hall. Young leaders Rhanee Lester and Rads Sukumar at the 13th Assembly
and befriended. Perhaps it was I loved that nobody’s voice And I loved the way we
our Stetson-wearing-President was dismissed as being too experienced true relationship
and cheesy-tie-wearing General young, too inexperienced or with members of Congress, passion of the meeting. And it Rads (Radhika) Sukumar is
Secretary chairing the meeting too emotional. Indeed, my fear, especially when we all stood was a great honour to take part a 24-year-old Administrative
with such grace and humour. But before actually reaching the in solidarity on the steps of in organising that memorable Assistant at Uniting Mission
after a week in a 13th Assembly- Assembly, was that the proposal Parliament House, and prayed event. and Education in the NSW/
shaped bubble, I’m quite happily I was to present with Rhanee and sung together (in tune too!) I am extraordinarily grateful ACT Synod. She is seeking to
fried. Lester (about the National Young in response to the passing of the for the opportunity to be a part be a candidate for Ministry of
A few things really stood Adults Leaders Conference Stronger Futures legislation. Th e of the Pilgrim People, for the the Word. She attended the
out for me. I really loved that 2012 “Reconciliation People” prayer vigil was not a planned friendships formed, for the songs
13th Assembly as a youthful lay
we were able to discuss and statement) would just be passed part of the Assembly. It simply sung, and for the path walked
member
deal with complex matters with with a nice pat on the head for arose out of the energy and together.
Assembly Standing Committee National Administrator). Th e • Zac Hatfi eld Dodds (NSW/ ordained)
other members chosen for the ACT, lay, under 25) Rev Glenda Blakefi eld
Standing Committee are: • Andrew Johnson (NSW/ACT, (Assembly Associate General
ON Saturday 21 July, the results under the age of 25 chosen. • Alison Atkinson-Phillips (WA, lay) Secretary), Rev Dr Chris Walker
of the previous day’s ballot were Ex-offi cio members of ASC lay) • Jason Kioa (Vic/Tas, ordained) (Th eology and Discipleship
announced with 18 members are Rev Alistair Macrae (ex- • Bethany Broadstock (Vic/Tas, • Cheryl Lawson (WA, lay) Consultant) and Synod General
chosen to sit on the Assembly President), Rev Prof Andrew lay, under 25) • Craig Mitchell (SA, lay) Secretaries all have observer
Standing Committee (ASC) for Dutney (President), Mr • Stu Cameron (Qld, ordained) • Deirdre Palmer (SA, lay) status on the ASC.
the next three years. Stuart McMillan (President- • Michelle Cook (Qld, ordained) • Ian Price (SA, ordained) Please pray for the members
Members were drawn from elect), Rev Terence Corkin • Emma Davison (NSW/ACT, • Isabel Th omas Dobson (Vic/ of ASC as they take up this
every Synod, representing (Assembly General Secretary), lay, under 25) Tas, lay) important role within the life of
both the lay and ordained Rev Rronang Garrawurra • Kate Fraser (Northern, • Ian Tozer (WA, ordained) our church.
communities and also the youth (UAICC Chairperson), and ordained) • Jan Trengove (SA, lay)
of the church, with three people Rev Shayne Blackman (UAICC • Geoff rey Grinton (Vic/Tas, lay) • Jenny Tymms (Northern,
Faith in action over Stronger Futures
legislation
Futures legislation. more just, inclusive and equal Rev Prof Dutney said that the
“Our political leaders must relationships in the Church and Uniting Church believes in a God
rise above the election cycle and Australian community.” who seeks the reconciliation of
commit funds and resources UAICC Chair Rev Rronang all people.
to practical programs that are Garrawurra said: “We are also members of a
ALMOST 400 people sang, led by both the President and evidence-based with accountable “Th e Australian Government church that is still ‘Uniting’.
prayed and observed a minute’s the Chairperson of the Uniting and transparent processes. has taken away our lands and “We challenge our church,
silence on the steps of the South Aboriginal and Islander Christian “Th e programs need to be now our humanity also is taken our government and our nation
Australian Parliament to express Congress Chair (UAICC). developed and implemented in away by this new law.” to listen deeply to the knowledge
concern at the federal Stronger After the whole crowd had partnership with Indigenous Th e event made Channel and culture of our First Peoples.
Futures laws. joined in song, Uniting Church communities rather than Seven’s Adelaide nightly bulletin. “If we are serious about
At lunchtime on day fi ve of the President Rev Prof Andrew imposed upon them. Th e Stronger Futures laws pursuing genuine relationships
13th Assembly, members moved Dutney opened the prayer vigil “We have worked in passed at the end of June extend with the First Peoples, we must
en masse from their meeting to by declaring: partnership with our Indigenous the policies of the Northern commit to genuine continued
the steps of Parliament. “We, the 13th Assembly of brothers and sisters and we have Territory Intervention such as consultation and dialogue.
Passers-by stopped and stared the Uniting Church in Australia, listened. We commit ourselves income management by up to 10 “In Christ, we are sisters and
and cars beeped their horns at have gathered here today in with the Uniting Church’s more years. Th e Uniting Church brothers, and so we commit
the silent procession of people lament and prayer, in response to Aboriginal and Islander Christian has been a vocal opponent of the ourselves to stand alongside each
holding Uniting Church banners the Federal Parliament’s Stronger Congress, to developing legislation. other in love and friendship.”
Members of the 13th Assembly gather on the steps of the South Australian Parliament to hold a prayer vigil of lament for the Stronger Futures legislation
Journey, August 2012
1100
13TH ASSEMBLY JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU
Economist calls church
to act on justice
ON the second last day of He reminded those present prayer vigil on the steps of South
business at the 13th Assembly, that big global issues are solved Australia’s Parliament. “It is
members were treated to the every day but it was a matter of very hard to get on mainstream
eye-opening wit and humour priorities. TV talking about issues of
of economist and Executive “We have and we do identify Indigenous disadvantage,” he
Director of Th e Australia new problems and we solve them said, “but gee it is easy every
Institute, Dr Richard Denniss. with a particular enthusiasm. night to get 30 seconds about the
Speaking at a preview of the “But let’s be clear: in the last Hang Seng and the Nikkei-Dow.
new UnitingJustice Australia 20 years we have not found “I don’t know anybody who
website, the co-author of the will to address Indigenous doesn’t have an economics
Affl uenza asked why, in a country disadvantage, we have not found degree who even knows what the
as rich as Australia, we can aff ord the money to improve our public Hang Seng is!
to tackle so many problems – but education system, we will not “Do you really think that
not climate change. invest the money we need to into the people who need to know
He pondered why it was that our aged-care system to prepare are tuning in to the Channel 10
Melbourne could subsidise a car for an inevitable demographic News to fi nd out? So what is it
race but could no longer aff ord time bomb, and we are told doing there on the news every
to subsidise fresh fruit in public repeatedly that we cannot aff ord night? It is telling you that big
schools. to tackle climate change. important things, that greater
Why Sydney could aff ord to Dr Denniss urged Assembly minds than yours have puzzled
host the Olympics but not house members not to leave issues over, are happening in the world.
the homeless? of justice up to the world’s “You might think we can
“Why does our economy economists. aff ord to spend more on health,
generate the outcomes that it “As high priests of fi nance we you might think we can aff ord to
does? Why is poverty with us have nothing to contribute to spend more on education, and
in times of affl uence? Why can questions of justice.” you might think we might do
we aff ord to tackle so many “Th ese are fundamental something sensible like tackle
problems, yet we can’t aff ord to questions of justice and equity climate change, but you don’t
tackle climate change? Th ese are ... the last people in the country even know what the Hang Seng
questions that my profession and that you want thinking about is! So why should we listen to Executive Director of The Australia Institute, Dr Richard Denniss,
the political class love to keep to these problems are me and you?
calls 13th Assembly members to insist on economic justice
themselves. my colleagues. Th ese are not “Th ese are things for you
“We can’t possibly imagine questions for economists, yet to demand of your political
tackling something like climate economics is used again and leaders, but understand that about anything other than here “Congratulations for taking
change because we are busy again to explain the inexplicable.” my colleagues will be standing we are, living in one of the richest the time to stop and think about
actually causing that climate He congratulated Assembly between you and them, running countries in the world, telling things that, frankly, people really
change with the world’s biggest members for the small amount of interference, talking about the ourselves we can’t aff ord to tackle don’t want you to think about.”
mining boom,” he said. media coverage of the Assembly Hang Seng, getting you to think poverty.
SPRINGTIME GARDENS TOUR
May 2013
Europe, UK & Chelsea Flower Show
Dutch Bulbfields, French chateaux & England’s magnificent gardens:
Yorkshire Moors and Dales, Lake District & Cotswolds.
(cid:116)(cid:1)All stops 3 or 4 nights in First Class Hotels
(cid:116)(cid:1)First Class rail travel, full luggage handling
(cid:116)(cid:1)All entrances, many meals
Uniting Church in Australia past Presidents Rev Gregor
Henderson (left) and Dr Jill Tabart, ex-President Rev (cid:116)(cid:1)Fully escorted by Mr Stan Klan, Toowoomba UCA
Alistair Macrae, current President Rev Prof Andrew
Dutney, and past President Rev Prof James Haire at the Departs May 5th 2013 - 20 days - $12,950
13th Assembly in Adelaide.
The kiss of the sun for pardon,
The song of the birds for mirth,
One is nearer God’s heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on earth.
For a
What does being a disciple of God in 2013
look like to you? Full Colour
Young people aged five to 17 are invited to Brochure Call
cBreeinagti vae Dlyi secxipplree ossf Gthoedi ri nid 2e0a1s3 o fno rt hthee t h20em13e Tour Director
Synod Calendar Art Competition. Stan
Entries close 21 September 2012.
For more information and guidelines for entry, visit
www.together.ucaqld.com.au/artcompetition
The Uniting Church in Australia
QQuueeeennssllaanndd SSyynnoodd
Journey, August 2012