April 2013 | journeyonline.com.au

The Uniting Church in SYNOD

CALL OF DUTY

Christians mobilise against poverty DISCIPLES FOR A HURTING WORLD Trinity Theological College, Brisbane What’s inside >> Queensland Synod, Uniting Church in Australia Director of Studies In Systematic Theology (re-advertised) Trinity College invites applications from suitably qualified people, lay and ordained, Be amongst the first to engage for the above position. The Uniting Church is committed to being thoroughly inclusive and so encourages applications from both women and men and from in deepening your faith through Christians those within the culturally and linguistically diverse communities that are an integral Gympie heartbreak It’s a global village and Muslims part of the contemporary church. online learning at Pilgrim! 5 6 10 The Queensland Synod wishes to make an appointment to the above position from Wherever it doesn’t matter where youy live as longg as youy have a compup ter 1 July 2013. However, a later starting date can be negotiated if necessary. The Synod andd itinternett reserves to itself the right to make all decisions with regard to the appointment. Trinity College is the Uniting Church in Australia’s theological college in Queensland, Whatever choose from araa range of study options to deepen your faithanh andyod your with responsibilities for training for ordained and lay ministries. unded rstat ndindi gofg off ththe Biblle, ththeollogy,an, andldled leaderd shiphi iin ththe UCA The College’s formation program contains academic, field and integrative Whoever youngorg or old,ne, newtow to study oranr an“ololdhad hand”;nd ; you set the paceane and components. Its core academic program is taught within the Faculty of Theology Pilgrim provides the guidance and Philosophy of the Australian Catholic University (ACU) within the parameters Pilgrim Learning Community offers accessible, affordable courses designed to of an Affiliation between ACU and the UCA (Qld Synod). give lay people a broader and deeper understanding of the basis of the Christian The person appointed would be expected to participate in the preparation of faithfrh from a Uniting ChChurch perspectieive. students for a variety of ordained and lay ministries, and in the preparation of Gold Coast outreach 50 yearsyears ofo Lifeline Closing the gap students for Degrees and Diplomas at both undergraduate and postgraduate Sign up now to participate in our online learning program, 13 14 18 level. Appropriate qualifications and teaching experience in systematic theology available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. are essential. A demonstrated capacity to actively participate in the personal, pastoral and spiritual formation of candidates for ministry is vital. An interdisciplinary Enrolling from 1 May 2013. approach to teaching is encouraged. 4 Brokers of peace 7 Election 2013 8 The right to work Enquiries should be made to the General Secretary of the Queensland Synod, Moderator’s message Christains mobilise against poverty Uniting Church speaks out for asylum seekers GPO Box 674, Brisbane Qld 4001, or by email to [email protected] and applications should be lodged by 4 pm on Friday 26 April 2013. 9 Fashioning disciples 11 Call of duty 12 Proserpine project P: 07 3377 9724 | E: [email protected] | pilgrim.com.au We are all works in progress The chaplaincy journey Ticking all the boxes for mission

The SCOTS PGC College CoC Educational Dayy and Boarding Living in the service of others One of the things I love about the Uniting Church is the long-standing Cover photo: Rev John Dansie commitment of its members to support the marginalised and to work by Christine Coupland for peace and justice. These values are woven into the fabric of the journeyonline.com.au Uniting Church in Australia.

facebook.com/JourneyOnline We see this in the formation of services like Lifeline, which celebrated 50 years in March (page 14). After a phone conversation between Rev Dr Sir Alan Walker and

SeparateSeparate boardinboardingg cam campusespuses for forg irls girls and and boy sboys JuniorP-4, Middle 5-8, and Senior 9-12 Schools twitter.com/journeyonlineuc a distressed man (who later took his own life), Dr Walker was determined not to let isolation and lack of support be the cause of more deaths. The 24-hour crisis Warwick Q . TT0. 07746 466666 9811 9811 www.scotspgc.qld.edu.auwww sccotspgc qld edu au youtube.com/JourneyTelevision space to learn support line he started now answers around 1250 calls each day. Uniting Church In Australia Property Trust (Q) Registered CRICOS Provider No. 00537M Subscribe to receive Journey in your inbox The commitment to others leads Uniting Church people to all kinds of places and experiences. From our chaplains serving in the Defence Force (pages 10 and 11), Synchronise stories to your blog reader to the Church speaking out for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers (page 8), to educating young people on global issues (page 6), we serve others. Editor-in-chief: Mardi Lumsden The Brisbane Taiwanese Congregation is a diverse apply for a suitability to work with children check. A Acting Editor: Dianne Jensen Design: Holly Jewell Shae Godfrey’s April artwork in the Synod calendar is a wonderful refl ection of congregation filled with people of all ages ranging from person who is prohibited from working with children will Advertising: Tara Burton the joy and vibrancy that happens when people live their life to the fullest in the kindergarten through to active seniors, located in the south not be considered for this role. Publisher: The Uniting Church side of Brisbane. in Australia, Queensland Synod. service of others. Every colour and texture explodes off the page. Also, the successful applicant will need to obtain a Printing: Horton Media Limited, Narangba Minister of the Word We are committed to reaching into the local community, and religious workers visa to offer ministry in Australia. The This month we remember two people whose fully lived lives have recently ended. proclaiming the word of God in Taiwanese, Mandarin and Uniting Church will assist in this process. Please email us if Contact: Uniting Communications, English. you need the template for your resume. The Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod, Rev Ellis Bramley, a retired Uniting Church minister, passed away in March at the 60 Bayliss Street, Auchenfl ower QLD, age of 101. Ordained for over 70 years, he certainly lived for others. Brisbane Taiwanese We are seeking to appoint a Minister of the Word for a 5-year For further information and to make an application, GPO Box 674, Brisbane QLD 4001, Ph: (07) 3377 9910 | E: [email protected] term, to: please contact: F: (07) 3377 9717 | journey.ucaqld.com.au And in the Journey offi ce we mourn the loss of one of our incredible volunteers. Uniting Church t-FBE BOE QBTUPS PVS DPOHSFHBUJPO Sue Black has been assisting in the mailing of Journey, among other things, for t5SBJO SFTPVSDF BOE EFWFMPQ OFX MFBEFST Chairperson JNC Brisbane Taiwanese Congregation ISSN: 0817-4466; Circulation: 14 500; Journey is t-FBE PVUSFBDI JOUP UIF DPNNVOJUZ BOE C/- Secretary of Synod Placements Committee published 11 times a year for the Queensland Synod many years. If you receive Journey in an envelope, chances are that Sue put it t3FTPVSDF UIF ZPVOH BEVMU NJOJTUSZ Uniting Church in Australia (Qld Synod) of The Uniting Church in Australia. Opinions expressed there while chatting and enjoying a cup of tea with us. (10 #PY #3*4#"/& 2-%  in Journey do not necessarily refl ect those of the editor Applicants must be prepared to work within the polity and 1I    or the policies of The Uniting Church. Acceptance of ethos of the Uniting Church in Australia as described in the advertising does not imply endorsement; inclusion May the examples of the lives of these two faithful people continue to inspire us all. E: [email protected] of advertising material is at the discretion of the Basis of Union. The successful applicant will be required to Applications close: 15 May 2013 publisher. Journey cannot guarantee the publication Mardi Lumsden and/or return of submissions but makes every eff ort to do so if requested. Editor-in-chief

Closing date for editorial and advertising for April Journey is Monday 15 April. The next April issue of Journey will be available on Sunday 5 May. Journey 2013 3

From the Moderator

Property damage at Gympie after the devastating fl oods earlier this year. Photo: Linda Watt and David Gibson

How welcome are Monday Midday Prayer Heartbreak continues for Gympie Crucifi ed and risen Christ, those who bring peace teach us to be bearers of hope and brokers of reconciliation, I visited Alex a few times after I had Uniting Church members were urged to become so that love and peace may residents after record floods come together and justice and conducted his wife’s funeral. He recalled educated about these issues and to participate in Uniting Church minister Dave Thomas reports from the Gympie region, which is still being in school one hot afternoon in study groups to discuss alternative means peace join hands. Rockhampton when a man came running for settling disputes. counting the cost of fi ve fl oods in two years. Amen through the grounds announcing, “The I remember last year saying Cr Ron Dyne, Mayor of Gympie Regional Council, Each time the Church made such resolutions war is over! The war is over!” The man somewhat jokingly about coming to says that the two fl oods have impacted on council it expressed support for the work of Defence continued on his way, jumping over fences Gympie that I should seek a boat as infrastructure to the tune of $50 million for the Force chaplains and the men and women in the and running through back yards to let part of the placement. Since arriving I 26 January fl ood and $25 million for the Defence Force. As an Army Reserve chaplain I everyone know that the long dark night have seen, heard, and smelt fi rst-hand 26 February fl ood. am proud to have been part of the history of the Moderator’s diary was over. the absolute nightmare of three fl oods Royal Australian Army Chaplains Department within a space of fi ve weeks earlier “Five fl oods in two years, four in one year and two That was the Second World War, the one that but I suspect that at times military chaplains have April 10 this year. in one month have stretched the resourcefulness, followed the “war to end all wars”. walked a lonely path to do their duty. Perhaps this Heads of Churches meeting patience, resilience and morale of all residents,” is even more acute for those active Christians who The church building itself is fi ne, as is all says Cr Dyne. For many of our From time to time I have sat in churches and read April 12 have chosen a military career. other church property (unlike others north through the names on the honour rolls and looked Preaching at UCC Prison farmers, the huge of here), but the real stress is in the people’s The February fl ood wreaked havoc on emergency at the stained-glass windows dedicated to the Whenever I sing the chorus based on Isaiah 52:7, Ministry Annual Conference livelihood. repairs which were in place following the 2012 task of mending memory of the fallen. about how welcome are the feet of those who bring Church Service fl ood. The community was effectively divided good news and announce peace, I think of Alex, April 13 – 14 In sharing with some of the resilient locals, during the fl oods, with residents of the south side fences and carting Across Queensland there are all kinds of and I remember the relief of his community when Queensland Churches I learnt that we experienced two and almost isolated from the town. memorials — cenotaphs, community halls, the war was over. Together AGM three 100-year-fl oods in a matter of weeks. away debris, in churches, swimming pools and on the road The local football club is struggling after having some cases losing between Brooweena and Woolooga, a bridge. I wonder how, as disciples of Jesus, we might equip April 20 – 21 The recovery process is still underway spent $50 000 on repairs after the fi rst fl ood, only These constructions were small compensation ourselves to become brokers of peace in our families, Partners in Ministry Retreat for a number of businesses in the main to have it all demolished by the second fl ood. This livestock and to the communities that had farewelled their men our nation and even to the ends of the earth. April 23 – 26 street. For many of our farmers, the huge story is repeated time and time again. yet they did serve as a reminder of the shocking Rev Kaye Ronalds Trans-Tasman Moderators’ task of mending fences and carting away produce, has been loss and futility of war. The people are resilient, and certainly those in Queensland Synod Moderator Gathering debris, in some cases losing livestock and heartbreaking produce, has been heartbreaking. One of town have their recovery processes well-rehearsed. By the time the Uniting Church was formed in our church family members in the Mary 1977 Australia had grown weary of military Nevertheless, the pain is there. The journey Dave Thomas Valley commented that it is “the worst fence solutions to confl ict. In our Statement to the continues. damage we’ve had, with debris higher and Nation we announced: more fences gone, since I’ve been here.” Rev Dave Thomas Gympie Uniting Church “We pledge ourselves to hope and work for a nation whose goals are not guided by self-interest alone, but by concern for the welfare of all persons everywhere — the family of the One God — the God SCHOOL FOR DISCERNING PARENTS made known in Jesus of Nazareth, the One who gave His life for others.” Sunshine Coast Grammar School Brisbane Boys’ College In 1983 the Third Assembly passed a resolution Co-educational day school Prep to Year 12 Boys: Prep to Year 12 on militarism and disarmament which began by (07) 5445 4444 www.scgs.qld.edu.au Boarding: Years 5 to 12 acknowledging the crucifi ed and risen Christ’s (07) 3309 3500 www.bbc.qld.edu.au call to Christians to be peacemakers; to save life, to heal and to love their neighbours. The testing Somerville House Girls: Prep to Year 12 Boarding: Girls from Year 5 Day and for girls Prep to Year 12 of nuclear weapons at that time plus the threat of Boys: Prep to Year 5 Boarding: Years 7 to 12 nuclear war contributed to a deep concern about (07) 3262 0262 www.clayfield.qld.edu.au (07) 3248 9200 www.somerville.qld.edu.au the potential for catastrophe.

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.

4 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 5 Racing against poverty

UN Millennium Anti-poverty advocates gather on the front Development lawns of Parliament Goals (MDGs) House in Canberra in March to launch the Movement to End Poverty petition. Photo: Micah Challenge Australia

Welcome to the global Election 2013: Ailish (St Margaret’s School, Brisbane ) Emile (St John’s Anglican College, Forest Lake) and Kyle (Unity College, Caloundra) work together on an interactive activity at Christians mobilise against the One World, WonTok Youth Conference on Poverty and village Development in Brisbane. Photo: Holly Jewell poverty Advocating for global justice starts with one person, one family and one community, as secondary students discovered at the Journey One World, WonTok Poverty and Development Youth Conference. Dianne Jensen reports. As the 2015 target date for the Millennium Development Goals approaches, reports on a pre-election campaign by Christians to highlight the issue of Australian development aid.

“On no, my crops died!” Students found their eyes opened to the signifi cance “We’ll have to sell something!” of education, particularly for girls, and were UnitingWorld has joined Make churches and agencies in Micah challenged by the high rates of deaths among Poverty History and Micah Challenge’s new Finish the Race Fast facts: Students gathered around the laptop at the One children and mothers. Challenge in a national campaign campaign. World, WonTok Poverty and Development Youth to mobilise the Australian The UN Millennium Development Conference had just realised that pests, lack of rain UnitingWorld facilitator Stephanie Dalton says community in the run up to the Finish the Race will mobilise ‘It’s very confronting. and random disasters had wiped out their online understanding that people in need have the dignity federal election on 14 September. supporters to appeal to Australian Goals (MDGs) are a set of eight We get hospitals and crops. and the capability to overcome their challenges is politicians to prioritise Australia’s international targets formulated in medical equipment – one of the key aims of the conference. The Movement to End Poverty is a commitment to the UN Millennium 2000 by world leaders to halve poverty The computer simulation is an interactive learning sector-wide petition urging political Development Goals (MDGs), a set of they might only get activity about subsistence farming based on “Today we have seen students think, ‘Hang on, leaders to fulfi l their bipartisan eight international targets intended to by 2015. a plastic cloth to give Millennium Development Goal (MDG) that person’s not so different to me’. We wanted promise to give 50 cents in every halve poverty by 2015. Progress since 1990: birth on’ 1: Eradicate extreme poverty. to teach them to come alongside people, and that’s $100 of national income to tackle • 280 million fewer people living in something that UnitingWorld really values. global poverty by 2016, rising to “Our vision is to give every Christian Chelsea, Unity College The conference was held at St Margaret’s School, extreme poverty We come alongside our partners; we don’t impose 70 cents by 2020. The joint project in this country the opportunity to add Brisbane on 7 March by UnitingWorld, in our values over them.” allows members of the public to sign their voice to our collective call for • 40 million more children in school partnership with the Anglican Board of Mission, on at any participating organisation’s justice,” says Mr Beckett. • four million more children survive for Uniting Church and Anglican secondary school And sometimes, she adds, simple solutions can website. students. WonTok is a Melanesian word which make a world of difference. “We hope to see hundreds of churches each year intimates a shared family, community, language, The initiative was launched on and individuals taking local action in • four million people now receive “For example, at our maternal health activity history and future. 14 March when up to 1000 young every electorate across the country HIV/AIDS treatment in developing we want students to think of the really easy Australians and their politicians between April and July 2013.” Similar conferences were held in Sydney, Perth, interventions that families and local governments countries. gathered in a giant map of the nation Adelaide and Melbourne. can do to make sure that women don’t die during The Federal Government’s recent Challenges ahead: on the front lawns of Parliament pregnancy, childbirth and afterwards. Something decision to divert $375 million away House in Canberra, displaying • one billion people in extreme poverty ‘We heard about Now in its second year, the event is designed to as simple as a birthing kit, with things like gloves from life-saving overseas programs electorate banners made to look • 72 million children not in school young girls having to help students identify and think through global and soap.” in order to meet the domestic poverty and development challenges using the like giant drop pins. costs of processing asylum seekers • 9 million children die each year stop their education. If MDGs as a guiding framework. They include Raising awareness about global poverty and Micah Challenge Australia is a highlights the precarious nature of the • 360 000 women die from their parents die, they hands-on activities such as simulation games, disadvantage, and how we can overcome these coalition endorsed by over 30 government’s promises to the world’s complications of pregnancy and birth discussions and a panel with experts in the fi eld. issues together, starts with the individual, followed often have to leave Christian agencies and mission groups poor, says Mr Beckett. by the family and the community, says Ms Dalton. • over 33 million people infected with school to look after At another activity station (MDG 7: Ensure including UnitingWorld. Resources: unitingworld.org.au HIV/AIDS; two million die each year their siblings’ Environmental Sustainability), students were “Awareness means that people are actually micahchallenge.org.au Micah Challenge National Coordinator • half of the developing world lacks putting their heads together to recycle empty empowered to get out there and change things, fi nish2015.com.au Katrina, Unity College John Beckett says that the Movement un.org/millenniumgoals plastic milk containers into useful household because you have to know before you go.” sanitation. to End Poverty petition will be a key ausaid.gov.au items. One enterprising group created a cot mobile, unitingworld.org.au tool used by Christian individuals, while another constructed a water fi ltration unit.

6 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 7 The right to work Discipleship

Case study: Hassan arrived by boat on Christmas Island in November 2012 and was released from detention recently.

Asylum Seeker Assistance Scheme* (89 per cent of Newstart Fashioning disciples Allowance) for a hurting world Income per week Church gets behind The Year of Discipleship is part of the Uniting Church in Queensland’s Vision 2020, focusing right-to-work campaign on the call to form active and accountable disciples of all ages. Mel Perkins reminds us that we are all ‘works in progress’ on the discipleship journey. Uniting Church justice and research staff have added their voices to the call for work rights Life throws up many challenges that get us questioned and grappled before me — for over Rent per week for asylum seekers living in the community. Mardi Lumsden reports. thinking about faith, and sometimes being 2000 years! I was reassured to fi nd that revelation a disciple is hard. How are we to tell of the from God could come through Scripture, tradition, Uniting Church staff have joined build relationships, absorb culture, increase Good News of Christ amongst a world so experience and reason (from John Wesley’s organisations across Australia in support self-esteem and a chance to develop some normal full of pain and suffering? writings). of the Right to Work campaign launched frameworks for living after years of trauma and I remember having conversations with folk (in At Pilgrim Learning Community, we believe by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre dislocation,” she says. “These people want to Brisbane) after the attacks on the World Trade Centre that we are all “works in progress” on a journey; What’s left: in March. The campaign seeks to address contribute to the country that has given them in America in 2001 — many spoke of how their whole staff, lecturers and students. As lecturers we aim How are we to tell the lack of work rights for asylum seekers, a new beginning; why would we want to thwart Mobile phone per world view had shifted; they no longer felt safe and to encourage students to love God with all their week (including including those who arrived by boat post- that?” of the Good News they wondered how God fi tted into it all. heart, soul, strength and mind (Mark 12:30) as we overseas calls 13 August 2012 and are subject to the to his wife and Alison Gerard, Lecturer in Justice Studies teach from Scripture and 2000 years of Christian of Christ amongst a children) no-advantage rule, and those who arrived In pastoral ministry I have come across many at Charles Sturt University, says international scholarship. prior who have not been granted work people expressing the same questions after the world so full of pain evidence shows that moving asylum seekers out rights. loss of a loved one, particularly if the person was We seek to give students opportunities to of detention and into the community without young or the loss was unexpected, or during natural understand how church scholars have grappled and suff ering? National Director of UnitingJustice, Rev Elenie adequate access to rights and entitlements fosters disasters. Where is God in all of this? Did God with the biblical text and matters of doctrine and Poulos, says the right to work is a fundamental destitution and causes deteriorated mental and cause/send the illness/accident? How could God theology in various ways since the time of Jesus and human right for all – especially the most physical health. allow this to happen? Does God even care that they back into the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). vulnerable. The policy also has the potential to create a supply are suffering? Some fi nd themselves excited by what they learn “The Uniting Church is committed to a society of illegal labourers, exposing asylum seekers to and others fi nd their faith in God deeply challenged. Hassan does not speak much English but When my husband died at age 40 from cancer, where everyone is supported to contribute exploitation and harm in workplaces, she says. cannot aff ord the $9.12 (return) public I found myself asking much the same questions. Part of our role as lecturers is to walk alongside to their own wellbeing and to their community, transport cost to attend English classes. The Under a great burden of grief and pain, my faith our students as they engage and grapple with what through meaningful employment,” she says. “It outsources basic government services to already alternative is to walk a round trip of 25.8 km. in God suffered a major blow. they are learning — to encourage them to allow “The withholding of work rights for asylum seekers overstretched and under-resourced charities, conversation between their studies, their lives and living in the community is just another form of creating a tiered system of welfare.” He sends money home to his family every Thankfully for me I was surrounded by a God. We pray that the learning opportunities we month, as he knows they have no other punishment imposed on those who arrived after Over 90 per cent of boat arrivals between 2011 and community of believers, a number of whom had offer will inform and deepen their faith and their income. He frequently goes without food. the no-advantage principle was introduced.” 2012 have been found to be refugees and granted engaged in theological study. Their questioning and love for this amazing Triune God — the One who informed faith helped me to begin to build a new Hassan does not have the right to work. Queensland Synod Moderator, Rev Kaye Ronalds, permanent protection visas. invites us into God’s own life, to be fashioned as framework in which to understand God, which was He cannot supplement his benefi t legally. agrees. disciples for a hurting world. For more information visit: righttowork.com.au strengthened further by my own theological study Rev Mel Perkins *ASAS is provided to eligible asylum seekers in the (which began a few years later). community on Bridging visas. “Work provides opportunities to learn language, Christian Education Lecturer for Pilgrim Learning Community. pilgrim.ucaqld.com.au I found great relief in knowing that others had

Positions Vacant – Committees, Commissions and Boards Looking at your pension options? The Uniting Church is seeking expressions of interest from young professional people with skills in management, accounting, finance, investment, law, Consider the NGS Pension – winner of Money magazine’s Best of the Best Award human resources, property and corporate governance who are interested in for “Lowest-Cost Balanced Pension Fund” in 2013. Celebratingg 2 5 yearsy service: 1988-2013 serving on Uniting Church committees, commissions or boards. Compare your options by visiting www.ngssuper.com.au/compare-us/ Vacancies currently exist in a wide range of governance bodies across the www.ngssuper.com.au spectrum of church activities. 1300 133 177 Enquiries or resumés outlining gifts, skills and experience can be directed to Anne Osborne, Governance & General Counsel, Synod Office. UnitinginChrist actingwithlove livingwithhope Email: [email protected] | Phone: 3377 9768 witnessinginfaith NGS Super Pty Limited ABN 46 003 491 487 AFSL 233 154 Closing date for applications 30 May 2013. workingforjustice

8 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 9 Anzac spirit Profi le

Army chaplain Rev John Saunders presents a copy of the Qur’an to a village mullah in Afghanistan. Photo: John Saunders

Rev John Dansie, a Lance Corporal in the Australian Regular Army, will commence work as a military chaplain in 2015. Photo: Christine Face Coupland to face in Afghanistan Call of duty Building bridges between Christians and Muslims The journey from combat Uniting Church Army chaplain John Saunders was out jogging at Al Minhad Air Base in 100 Years of army the United Arab Emirates (UAE), en route to Afghanistan, when he heard an imam singing corps soldier to army chaplain chaplaincy the call to prayer. Minister at Deception Bay Uniting Church John Dansie began his career as a soldier and Army chaplains will participate in Anzac will commence work as a military chaplain in 2015, writes Tara Burton. The sun had not yet come up over the about the Christian faith. After a while one mullah Day marches around the country to desert horizon when I heard the call. It looked at me, thought about what I had explained, was then that a plan dropped into my head and responded, “Yes, I understand. This too is in “It’s not every day that you meet a chaplain John Dansie graduated from Trinity Theological celebrate the centenary of the Royal to open dialogue with Muslim leaders in the Holy Qur’an.” with an armoured vehicle driver’s licence,” College in 2012 and will commence his placement Australian Army Chaplains Department, Afghanistan. says Rev John Dansie, a serving member as an army chaplain in 2015. formed in December 1913. They were hungry to know what we Christians of the Australian Regular Army currently I wanted to demonstrate that Australians respected actually believed, and at one stage, even asked to on a pastoral placement at Deception Bay As a military chaplain, he will provide spiritual Chaplains have served, and in some their beliefs and were prepared to support them come into our base chapel and have me explain our Uniting Church under the Army In-Service support to serving members and their families as cases died, in all signifi cant military in their efforts at nation-building. In doing so, I prayer and worship. Chaplaincy Training Scheme. well as performing many of the roles that a civilian confl icts in which Australia has been When I arrived hoped to save lives — Aussie and Afghan. minister would undertake such as weddings, I learnt a great deal as well, and was surprised at “I was a Trooper and later a Lance Corporal funerals, baptisms. involved over the last 100 years. at a forward I decided to start by presenting local Muslim what we share in common. I am still challenged by (LCpL) in the Cavalry, an Armoured Vehicle Centenary activities will include the operating base to leaders with copies of the Qur’an as gifts from the their devotion and life of prayer. Crewman. I drove Armoured Personnel Carriers “One army journal suggests that a good chaplain Australian Muslim community. During my training and Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles. I’ve is like having an extra company commander. The release of an uncirculated coin from the Did it help end the bloodshed? No, I can’t say I saw visit my soldiers as a Minister of the Word I had visited a Brisbane served in Timor Leste and Afghanistan.” chaplain has a unique role in that he or she can Australian Mint, a pre-stamped Australia mosque, so it was a simple step to request copies a great deal of immediate success; we lost four of approach anyone in a unit and speak with them on the Afghans would our blokes, and the fi ght goes on. Post envelope, a commemorative book with greetings from Australian Muslims attached. He has been challenged on occasions to explain his equal terms,” he says. and the dedication of a remembrance career choices, fi rst as a combat corps soldier who come looking for Did we begin to understand each other, and did the Despite their initial reservations, my commanders was a Christian and then as a person who wanted “Chaplains can provide moral and ethical advice plaque at the Australian War Memorial. walls of ignorance and hatred begin to come down? me to sit and have agreed. I began distributing the Qur’an and started to be a chaplain in the military. to commanders and soldiers; they are also able to a dialogue with village mullahs and the Afghan Yes! provide training in areas they are qualifi ed in such Gallipoli communion chai (tea) and to talk National Army religious offi cers and mullahs. “I like Mel Gibson’s line in We were soldiers,” says as character development, character leadership, Did it open doors which otherwise might St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Brisbane LCpL Dansie. “When asked by a junior offi cer how and suicide prevention.” have stayed closed? Yes! Being able to engage about faith To be honest, I was amazed at the response. I was he felt about being a Christian and a soldier he City, located near the Shrine of on a religious level smoothed the process of welcomed with open arms and extended the hand replied ‘I hope that by being good at the one I can If John Dansie is ever deployed on operations as a Remembrance in Anzac Square, will and belief relationship-building for the taskforce. of friendship and the kiss of greeting. be better at the other’.” chaplain, he will no longer carry a weapon or drive be open from 11 am to 2 pm on Anzac an armoured vehicle. The experience has taught me to be open to Day, 25 April. A communion service I became known as the “Australian mullah”, and Being in a service environment has always been an discussing faith and belief with Muslims and to will be held at 12.30 pm using the when I arrived at a forward operating base to visit important factor in his career. “I think the fact that chaplains do not carry my soldiers the Afghans would come looking for understand the Abrahamic heritage we share. weapons serves to remind the soldiers around communion vessels used at Gallipoli by me to sit and have chai (tea) and to talk about faith “I joined the army because I’d always wanted to them that one day peace will be achieved, and we Dialogue with people of other faiths is a former minister Rev Dr Ernest Northcote and belief. be a soldier, or a fi reman or an ambulance offi cer. won’t need weapons anymore,” he says. worthwhile activity for Christians — even a Merrington. I stayed in the army because of the challenges, Uniting Church Army chaplain in the middle of For more information visit: At one stage, I sat talking with about six mullahs, the opportunities to advance my career, and the For more information visit: army.gov.au Afghanistan. defencejobs.gov.au/army/jobs/Chaplain saintandrews.org.au all asking questions, and tried to dispel myths mateship that was offered within its ranks.”

10 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 11 Proserpine Congregation profi le

Rev Wayne McHugh with some of the Compassion candles produced by volunteers at Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church. Photo: Wayne McHugh

Proserpine project ticks all

Burleigh Heads Never Alone Friendship Centre guests and the boxes for volunteers. Photo: Neville Free Burleigh Heads mission Uniting Church Gold Coast congregation Dianne Jensen reports on a central Queensland congregation that is shining a light on eff ective home-grown mission. focuses on outreach The congregation at Proserpine Whitsunday “It is win, win, win — create something that works Burleigh Heads Uniting Church is known locally as ‘the church on the hill’ and Uniting Church are fi rm believers that when local for the team, create the high-quality product that Tara Burton folk get inspired, they can undertake mission works for the customer, and create something that is situated on the outskirts of the busy Gold Coast region. spoke to projects which will transform themselves, their has a purpose that works for someone beyond co-founder of the Burleigh Heads Never Alone Friendship Centre, Neville Free. local community, and the world. ourselves,” he says. “The people involved get inspired, and the people who buy the product get Who makes up your congregation? We have assisted our sister churches at Nerang This is the home of Compassion candles and inspired.” Chappy sticks (lip balm), a thriving business run by Burleigh Heads Uniting Church is a worshipping and Southport to open similar programs. volunteers out of St James, Proserpine church hall. And as a congregation-based initiative, the project Fast Facts: and caring congregation of 260 members. It is fair Because of our location and the transience of supports the Together on the way, enriching Community: to say that we have a congregation of mature-aged The hand-made product line includes glass-jar society, we have a heavy call to support homeless community vision for locally fuelled ventures that > people who are young in mind and heart. candles, Advent candles, and presentation items population 9188, 52.2 per cent female and needy people and those who are not coping will help Synod into mission, he adds. > such as wedding and baptismal candles. The average age 40 years As tourism is a big part of the local economy, with life. > Chappy sticks are made on-site as well, to a private What is a church doing in the business world? a mix of holiday apartments, we have visitors at each service from all around It is win, win, win Four members of our congregation have been recipe. permanent rental accommodation Australia and from different parts of the globe. – create something “We do it as an activity of the local church, not as and private residential blocks, presented with Community Service Awards Income from the candles supports sponsor a business,” says Mr McHugh. “Our church has including the Burleigh Cove We are entering into a partnership agreement with honouring their commitment to the local that works for children through Project Compassion, and the run an annual fl ower show for the last 70 years, Community the Tallebudgera Uniting Church which although community. > in the early stages will no doubt lead to two strong the team, create Mwandi Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and runs two jumble sales a year. I grew up with fi ve aged-care/retirement facilities. What is your vision for the future? project through Uniting World and Christian band lamington drives and street stalls in my local Mission focus: congregations. We have adopted the Synod’s Together on the the high-quality Remember Seven. The Chappy sticks support church — both business activities. This is just more > to be faithful to the call of our Lord, How are you enriching your community? way, enriching community plan, and are working school chaplaincy across Queensland. continuous, which allows us to get better at it and both within the congregation and the product that works towards where we will be in 2020. We want to see a reach a wider market.” wider community In recent years and under the ministry of Rev Colin Rev Wayne McHugh says it all started with the idea vital and re-invigorated church, serving Christ and > to create a caring community Batt, who is also police chaplain for the Tweed for the customer, of fi nding a creative outlet for young people. The candles and lip balm are sold locally and the community of all ages. in Christ. District, the church has striven to reach out to and create online, and through Revs Peter Taubner (Isis) and the community. “Candle making was simply an idea without a Russell Reynoldson (Forest Lake) who are partners What’s new: We are in the process of assessing the needs of our > something that purpose. The idea of selling them to support and distributors. Both men are now putting RE ministry to three schools Leading this is the Never Alone Friendship Centre locality, and planning to build a service that will sponsor children, and later to support children’s their own value-add onto the pre-made candles, > support for school chaplaincy which began in September 2010. This ministry meet these needs with professional and suitably has a purpose that mission, was born soon afterwards.” allowing them to generate funds for mission > community chaplain aims to reach lonely and isolated people in the trained staff. projects of their choice. > programs include indoor bowls, community. From a humble beginning of 12 guests, works for someone Over four and a half years, the Proserpine We are looking at attracting young families and walking group, Art Attack, and the we now have 53 people registered, along with Whitsunday venture has sold $15 000 worth of For more information visit: youth through the Family@5 program. This is Never Alone Friendship Centre 27 volunteers. beyond ourselves compassioncandles.org.au a new initiative aimed at offering an alternative stock. With no rental or labour costs, expenses are unitingworld.org.au > volunteers assist with on-site Wayne McHugh limited to materials and equipment. rememberseven.com.au playgroups. Each Christmas the centre provides Christmas worship service to cater for those who require a late For product distribution enquiries contact: Day lunch for those in the community who would afternoon family service rather than the traditional The project works because it ticks all the right [email protected] Social media: [email protected] otherwise spend it alone. Last Christmas we morning service. The afternoon includes a spiritual boxes, says Mr McHugh. > Facebook catered for 212 people including 70 volunteers. message, family fun and a barbecue. > Website burleighheadsuniting.com.

12 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 13 Closing the gap

Adjunct Professor Stewart Gill, Principal at Emmanuel College, University of Queensland (centre), Assistant Dean (Indigenous Students) Shane Drahm and college resident Maccalla Fenn. Photo: Holly Jewell 50 years of Lifeline Help is just a phone call away Indigenous Fifty years after Lifeline volunteer counsellors took their fi rst call, the telephones are still running hot. Journey looks back to the beginnings of this remarkable organisation. students close The fi rst call made to Lifeline was at 5 pm Garner said that the organisation “grew out of a clear on 16 March 1963, one minute after the sense of Christian vision”. telephone lines were opened. Speaking at an anniversary function at Government the gap The crisis counselling service was founded by the House, Sydney on 13 March, Dr Garner said “Alan late theologian, evangelist, and broadcaster Sir Walker had great compassion for the isolated and he A university residential scholarship program is helping to close the education gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. Alan Walker, after he took a telephone call from a believed that through the establishment of Lifeline Dianne Jensen talked to students and staff at Emmanuel College, Brisbane. distressed man who later committed suicide. the mantle of Christianity would cover ‘the lonely crowd of the modern city’.” Lifeline was two years in the planning, and initially A growing band of young Indigenous Former college resident Keiron Laifoo from and support for the initiative. Former professional operated out of the Central Methodist Mission in In 1994 Lifeline transitioned the 24-hour telephone students are taking their place at university Thursday Island in the Torres Strait graduated last footballer and teacher Shane Drahm will help build Sydney. crisis support line to a single national number graduation ceremonies, thanks to the year with a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a dual community partnerships and provide mentoring for [Alan Walker] (13 11 14), and in 2007 introduced national call fl ow. scholarship program at Emmanuel College, major in Accounting and Finance. college students. believed that Journey volunteer Judith Finau was a staff member a University of Queensland (UQ) residential at the Mission, and one of the 150 people who The organisation has become synonymous with crisis community. “The more that society can see Indigenous people Founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1911, and through the attended the fi rst nine-month training course for counselling, suicide prevention, and community succeed; living at Emmanuel, going to university, now under the auspices of both the Presbyterian telephone counsellors. She was present at the opening support. There are 44 Lifeline centres The Indigenous scholarship program was created in graduating with a degree, I think is for the better,” and Uniting Churches, Emmanuel College aims to establishment of of the fi rst Lifeline Centre in Darlinghurst in Sydney in Australia, represented by Lifeline Australia Inc. 2008 to provide full or part residential scholarships he says. “I also believe that it’s important [that] other provide a supportive Christian environment for the on 16 March 1963. and Lifeline organisations have been established to students of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students who might become doctors and work in students in its care. Lifeline the mantle in 19 countries. background who have been accepted into UQ. It is remote Indigenous communities have a chance to of Christianity “I mostly drew the night shift and some weeks funded by the college and private benefactors. meet, speak with and understand some of the issues “Being a church-related college adds an extra I would be on stand-by to fi ll in for a volunteer who Volunteers remain at the heart of Lifeline, with over that an Indigenous person encounters.” dimension to whatever we do,” says Adjunct would cover “the was unable to do their shift,” recalls Mrs Finau. 11 000 volunteers registered nationally, half of whom Adjunct Professor Stewart Gill, Principal at Professor Gill. “The Gospel was at the heart of the work as telephone counsellors. Approximately 80 per Emmanuel, says that the program enables students This year Emmanuel will support six Indigenous founding of the college, and an important part of that lonely crowd of the “Not all calls were potential suicides; some callers cent of Lifeline operating costs are funded through to live within a community which provides pastoral students including Maccalla Fenn, from north east is a commitment to social justice issues including were just lonely and needed someone to talk to at modern city” retail outlets, book fairs and fundraising activities. care, academic support and the opportunity to , who is studying for a Bachelor of acknowledging the special role that our fi rst nation night, especially in the early hours of the morning. network. Science (Preliminary Medicine). plays in Australia.” Keith Garner If there was a potential suicide caller, we aimed to Lifeline services in Queensland are operated by fi nd out where the person was calling from so that UnitingCare Community. Services include the Crisis “We don’t engage in tokenism where Indigenous “I have found that being part of the college community For Keiron Laifoo, faith is important to his future. we could send out the ‘trouble team’. We tried to keep Line, suicide bereavement and prevention, individual recruitment is concerned. We use the same criteria has made the transition from school to university a lot the caller talking so that our team could reach them and group support, and Community Recovery. for acceptance for all students — we are interested in easier and a lot less daunting,” says Ms Fenn. “Faith will always be a factor in my decision making. in time.” students who have performed well academically, who I believe that what I am aiming to achieve now is the There are over 130 Lifeline shops in Queensland. want to contribute to the college community and be The college recently appointed an Assistant Dean path that God has set out for me.” Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of Lifeline, (Indigenous Students) to provide strategic direction For more information visit uccommunity.org.au/lifeline good ambassadors for the college.” For more information visit emmanuel.uq.edu.au Superintendent of Wesley Mission Rev Dr Keith

,1'225223,//< $63/(< -,1'$/(( /2*$1 52%,1$ ,1'225223,//<&(175$/ +20(0$.(5&,7< +20(0$.(5&,7< /2*$10(*$&(175( 52%,1$683(5&(175( &RRQDQ6WUHHW =LOOPHUH5RDG *RJJV5RDG 3DFLILF+LJKZD\ 5RELQD7RZQ&HQWUH'ULYH 3KRQH 3KRQH 3KRQH 3KRQH 3KRQH

14 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 15 Reviews Recommended

Recognising Reviews available at journeyonline.com.au Talking about ethics: Negotiating the maze Hope in Hell: Inside the God in the whole world of Doctors without Justin Denholm Borders Acorn Press 2011 Dan Borlotti of creation RRP $14.95 Firefl y Books 2010 RRP $24.95

This is a book about indigenous intercultural dialogue. Pannikar had a deep respect spiritualities, with particular reference to for indigenous spirituality. Cuttle Fish, Clones and Australia, Korea, Japan and New Zealand. Play the ball, not the player Cluster Bombs: Preaching, Pannikar used the term “cosmotheandric” in order It is a collection of articles, written by Politics and Ecology to argue that the reality we experience every day authors from around the world, that offer It is often said that “ethics is a Denholm offers advice on using the Bible in is comprised of three inter-related elements: the Michael S. Northcott a strong affi rmation of the integrity and conversation”, but as Justin Denholm ethics, recognising that there is no reliable index cosmic, the divine and the human. He argued that authenticity of indigenous spiritualities points out in his helpful study guide, we for ethical issues in Scripture that could save us Darton, Longman we can think about each of these dimensions of and the way in which they gather up and need conversations that go beyond a mere from the necessity of interpreting passages both & Todd 2010 reality individually, but we can’t separate them interpret every dimension of life for those sharing of opinions or disagreements. in the light of Jesus prioritising love as the great RRP $34.95 without doing damage to the way in which that who are born into them. commandment, and the realities of modern life. reality is experienced. He was convinced that Talking about ethics is a good place to start for For example, there would be no entry under “F” Image: Detail from book cover We have come quite late in Australia to an many in western thought endeavour to separate Christians interested in becoming part of the for Facebook, a current site of ethical concerns. appreciation of the deep, abiding spirituality of our them for the purpose of study and discussion, but ethics discussion. own indigenous people, and the realisation of just that indigenous spiritualities understand how they A strong emphasis is placed on fi rst understanding how much harm was infl icted by those who sought properly exist only in a vibrant unity with each Dr Justin Denholm has directed the Centre the viewpoints of others, and then offering a to deprecate and suppress it in every way possible other. for Applied Christian Ethics at Ridley College Christian alternative, if need be, in a reasonable for nearly 200 years. Melbourne since 2008. and constructive way. Pannikar was convinced that true spirituality The Righteous Mind Anyone who still has doubts about just how badly takes seriously the presence of God in the whole He provides succinct introductions to common Even within the church there are differences Jonathan Haidt indigenous people in this country were treated of creation, the vital need to build community in approaches to ethics — principle, utility and of opinion on ethical issues, so creating a safe (and still are being treated in many respects) should the midst of diversity, and the individual search to character (virtues). Perhaps that latter could have environment for ethics discussion is important. Penguin 2012 read Richard Trudgen’s book, Why Warriors Lie discover meaning in life. He found all three of these been fruitfully expanded, as it often is, to include This is achieved primarily by encouraging each RRP $19.99 Down and Die, and the compelling Rainbow Spirit elements, alive and dynamically inter-related, in the feminist ethics-of-care approach, particularly other to “play the ball and not the player”. Theology, written by a group of Australian Christian the indigenous spiritualities that he encountered as Denholm is otherwise careful to explain how Using stories as tools in ethics discussions will Dreaming a New Earth: Raimon Pannikar Aboriginals. through his work. He was deeply respectful of the ethical approaches are shaped by our worldviews; spirituality of indigenous Australians. that is, our interlocking beliefs and attitudes about lead to a greater appreciation that ethical decisions and Indigenous Spiritualities The various contributions in Dreaming a New the physical world and the human condition. are embedded in relationships, rather than being Editors: Gerard Hall and Joan Hendriks Earth are all informed by the work of Raimon Anyone interested in indigenous spirituality will free-fl oating intellectual calculations. Living without Enemies: Pannikar (1918-2010). His mother was a Spanish fi nd this book interesting and provocative. It also For Denholm, the best way to study Christian Being Present in the Midst Mosaic Press 2012 Recommended for groups wanting to start talking Catholic and his father an Indian Hindu. He was a offers an introduction to one particular aspect of ethics is in conversation with other Christians. of Violence RRP $39.95 Pannikar’s immense contribution to the fi eld of He offers practical and clear guidance about about ethics. committed Christian, an ordained Roman Catholic Samuel Wells priest, a theologian who wrote prolifi cally (more religious studies and inter-religious conversation. the relationship between Christian ethics and Trevor Jordan other approaches, and how to encourage ethical & Marcia Owen than 40 books and 400 journal articles) and he Rev Dr David Pitman Encouraging Ethics encouragingethics.tumblr.com refl ection both in the church and in the wider devoted most of his adult life to interfaith and Past Moderator of the Uniting Church in Queensland IVP Books 2011 community. RRP $17.95 DEGREES TO INSPIRE YOUR THINKING CHC.EDU.AU

CHC is about discovering a Godly perspective for life and career. It’s about discovering your Proud member of purpose, no matter what your age… knowing that you are called to do something extraordinary to transform this world for His glory. Find your balance between life and study, anywhere, anytime.

Business Education & Humanities Social Sciences Ministries

16 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 17 Opinion Fast news

Adoption: ‘Everything was for the best, and everyone went home a winner’. Photo: Creative Commons

Legislation will ban Historical cemetery UnitingCare research on non-profi t gag clauses at The Gap mining impact Senator Penny Wong, Deputy Leader of the The 140th anniversary of The Gap Uniting Church UnitingCare Queensland has launched a report Government in the Senate and Minister for cemetery (formerly The Gap Primitive Methodist on preliminary research conducted into the social Finance and Deregulation, has released details of Church Burial Ground) will be marked by the impacts of the mining and gas boom on its workforce new legislation aimed at safeguarding the right of publication of a history book by The Gap Pioneer and services in Gladstone, the Bowen Basin and the the not-for-profi t sector to advocate in the interests and History Group. The book will provide a Surat Basin. of the community. walking guide to the cemetery with information about each burial since 1873. A celebration and The research was undertaken in response to concerns Senator Wong addressed representatives from book launch will be held on 9 November. expressed by staff and clients. Queensland non-profi t community service To contribute information, contact Jeff and Ann Hilder on The report is based on more than 100 interviews and providers at a forum on 4 March hosted by 07 3300 1783 or [email protected]; or Alan Wallis UnitingCare Queensland. on 07 3300 6204. surveys conducted with UnitingCare Queensland staff and community stakeholders in 2012. The Not-for-Profi t Sector Freedom to Advocate Shining a light on forced adoption Bill will be introduced during the next sitting of 60 years of ordination Initial fi ndings indicate that mining and gas Federal Parliament. operations increase costs of living, force employees honoured and clients into insecure rental accommodation, The national apology for past forced adoption, held in Canberra on 21 March, was a day Senator Wong told the forum “… we are Four of the 23 men who were ordained in 1953 change the nature of communities, reduce the supply of high emotion, says Trevor Jordan. safeguarding the right of the not-for-profi t sector into the ministries of the three uniting churches of volunteers and create higher staff turnover rates. to advocate in the interests of the community … It (becoming ministers in the Uniting Church in 1977) will protect the voice of your sector, banning gag gathered in March to mark the 60th anniversary One positive outcome from the research was the I never met the woman who gave birth to For decades, the costs have been so personal and clauses from all Commonwealth contracts.” of their ordination. building of collaborative networks with other Non- me. She had died two years before I located so high for some that they have been borne in Government Organisation partners. This group my sister, who looked after her for the complete secrecy and isolation, fenced in not only The minister advised that she was writing to all Revs Brian Lee, Ron Smith, Ron Elvery and Dr has applied for an Australian Research Council last eleven years of her life. I still have not by past messages of shame and guilt but also by States and Territories calling on premiers to match Lewis Born were joined by Babs McIntyre (widow Linkage Grant to understand the socioeconomic brought myself to the point where I can visit the dominant narrative that everything was for the the federal initiative. The Queensland Government of Ron McIntyre), and greetings were received impacts of mineral resources development on her grave. best and everyone went home a winner. has inserted gag clauses into Queensland Health from Jean Moore, Val Painton and Beryl Willson. people who are vulnerable, and the implications service agreements. Those unable to be present included Revs Gordon for human services providers. When I was getting information about her and my As a community we do things differently now. We To read the full text of this article visit journeyonline.com.au Robinson, Owen Marks, Richmond Kenyon, Neville To read the full text of this article visit journeyonline.com.au siblings from Adoption Services in Queensland, I hope we do them better. The national apology is an To read Senator Wong’s speech visit pennywong.com.au/ Ross and Fred Webber. To read the report visit ucareqld.com.au remember stopping the worker on the other end of implicit recognition of past failings. speeches/a-strong-voice-unitingcare-nfp-forum-brisbane. the phone and asking them, “Why didn’t anyone The Moderator Rev Kaye Ronalds preached at the ever stop to ask her if she needed any help?” Of All states and territories (except the Northern short Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. course there was no answer to this. A healthy Territory) already have offered their apologies for Classifieds past practices of forced adoption, as have many Halifax jubilee plans Also present was newly ordained Rev Fa Ngaluafe. woman, a “good type” as it said on her fi le, who CALOUNDRA, beachside units, from $400/wk. The costs have Her presence was a symbol of “the fellowship of the regularly offered healthy children for adoption by institutions and professions, including the Uniting Halifax Uniting Church is seeking information and ph 0427 990 161. ministry across generations and cultures, and the been so personal infertile couples, needed none. Church. photographs for their jubilee on 19 May. The church continuity of God’s gifts for and call to Ministry,” London B and B. Lovely home, reasonable rates. will celebrate 50 years of Christian fellowship with Ph 0011 44 20 8694 6538. Although the Commonwealth’s role in past forced says Rev Ron Elvery. and so high for Forced adoption takes many forms: sometimes a service at 3 pm, with the Rev Dr Paul Moore as [email protected] adoption was minimal, its role in future moral direct physical restraint and emotional coercion to guest speaker. Dr Moore was the fi rst resident some that they repair is crucial. Addressing the past wrongs of Boulder Creek Holiday Centre sign consent forms, and sometimes just a deck of probationer at Halifax. forced adoption and meeting the very different 281 Hill Rd, Mothar Mountain, via Gympie - the ideal have been borne in cards so stacked against you that there is nowhere place for your next church or family group camp. needs of individuals will require coordination For information contact Noel McClintock on 07 4776 1924 Catered accommodation for up to 100 persons. else to go. or Liz Bosworth on 07 4777 1617. Mail can be directed to complete secrecy between governments, institutions and PO Box 146 Ingham QLD 4840. Self cater available for small groups. The national apology for past forced adoption, professions. Check www.bouldercreek.com.au for more information or ph 5483 5221. and isolation held in Canberra on 21 March, was a day of high Trevor Jordan emotion. About a thousand people attended the President, Jigsaw Queensland Post-Adoption Centre apology in the Great Hall of Parliament House Jigsaw Queensland provides information and support and the accompanying reception. Both the for all those affected by adoption, including referral to Prime Minister Julia Gillard and the Leader of specialist search and mediation services and adoption specifi c counselling. For more information visit the Opposition Tony Abbott delivered detailed jigsawqueensland.com or contact 07 3358 6666 and heartfelt apologies to those affected by past or [email protected]. practices of forced adoption.

Many of those attending were hoping for a turning point in their lives; some public acknowledgment of the grief and loss they had suffered and a chance to reconnect with a community and institutions that for so long seemed deaf to their pain.

18 journeyonline.com.au Journey April 2013 19 At Alexandra Park we have come a long way from the traditional camp, with modern facilities that suit churches for family camps, youth camps, and retreats, and schools for leadership, music camps, sports team training, beach and adventure camps, sporting clubs, community and craft groups. We have ensuited rooms with modern facilities for 4–5 guests per room or our Acacia dormitories remain a popular lower cost option. Modern fully equipped meeting and conference rooms make presentations easy, while our catering team will create quality, freshly cooked nutritious meals so you won’t need to lift a finger. There are plenty of recreation options on site, or take a five-minute walk to Alexandra Headland beach. Experience the benefits of camp for your ministry. The National Church Life Survey indicates 32 per cent of church-goers made life-changing decisions at camp; faith commitments and/or ministry or mission decisions. 45 per cent of respondents stated camp was important in strengthening their faith. Please contact us if you wish to organise your own camp, or be part of Alexandra Park – Uniting Church Family Camp from 30 August – 1 September 2013: a weekend of faith, fellowship and fun.

Call 1300 789 192 Email [email protected] Visit alexpark.com.au

24 – 28 MAY 2013

UnitinginChrist actingct withlove livingwithhope witnessinginfaith workingforrjustice

Alexandra Park Conference Centre, Sunshine Coast | ucaqld.com.au