Korumburra farewells Christians and From the Bishop The Abbey Feast Existentially bored? Jenny Ramage their bodies page 2 page 4 page 5 page 9 page 11 The

Volume 113, NumberAnglican 8, September 2016 Published in Gippsland Diocese since 1904 Janet Wallis inducted at

Photo: Christine Morris Jan Down The Maffra Uniting Church minister, the Rev’d Sandra Houghton, and the Roman Catholic priest, Father Darren he Rev’d Janet Eryl Wallis was Howie, welcomed Janet on behalf inducted as Priest in Charge of of the wider church community in Tthe parish of Maffra on Thursday Maffra. Sandra Houghton noted that 4 August. there had been a combined churches Family, friends, Maffra parishioners council for a long time in the town, and others from Janet’s previous with churches supporting each other in parishes, as well as clergy from across many activities, including the annual the diocese flled the church of St John’s combined Palm Sunday parade. Maffra. Maffra church warden, Jeff Ordained deacon in 1997, Janet has Wheaton, welcomed Janet and her ministered in the parishes of Rosedale, husband Peter on behalf of the parish, Mirboo North and Leongatha. In 2014 saying Maffra was delighted to have she concentrated on conducting civil them. Janet has been locum in the funerals. Chaplaincy roles followed parish for the past few months. She at the Sale Specialist School and Grey responded with words of thanks Street Primary in Traralgon. both to Maffra and to the people Janet and her husband Peter moved of Traralgon parish, who she said to Gippsland from New South Wales in had nurtured her over the past couple 1987 when Peter was appointed Registrar of years. of the Diocese, a role he served in for The Rev’d Janet Wallis and her husband Peter, after the induction Janet expressed her hopes for the sixteen years. He is currently Practice future: “I long to see the church alive Manager at Breed Street Medical Clinic just returned from Europe, the bishop bold apostle, founding a community, and active in the community and in Traralgon. observed that people there were talking the people of The Way”. She reminded drawing people to know the love and At the induction service, Bp Kay about “before Brexit” and “after Brexit”. the congregation “We are all part of this grace of God. I look forward to the Goldsworthy preached on the apostle Bp Kay went on to say that when community and with all our frailties and fellowship of being in church together Peter’s “watershed moment” in the Jesus asked Peter “Who do you say fears, we can continue to proclaim Jesus and having the opportunity to walk gospel reading from Matthew 16: 13-23. that I am?” it was a turning point for Christ as Lord, and tell the good news of with people in their journey of faith. I She identifed some common Peter, as he declared that Jesus was the God’s reconciling love”. hope we will learn and grow together”. watershed moments or turning points in Messiah, the Son of the living God. She After the service, Councillor Peter Celebrations and fellowhip people’s lives, such as a wedding day, said that, as Jesus predicted, Simon did Cleary welcomed Janet on behalf of continued after the service, with the birth of a child, or a death. Having become Peter (the rock); he “grew into a the Mayor and the Wellington Shire. supper in the church hall.

The congregation Sea Sunday, of St John’s, Port Albert, celebrated Sea Sunday on Sunday 7 August. Port Albert, one of ’s oldest sea ports, still has some working fishing boats. Andrea Fleming, CEO of the Mission to Seafarers, was the visiting speaker at the service held in the community hall. Jesus said: “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people”. (Luke 5:10) (See story, page 7)

Cathrine Muston appointed to Anglicare page 3 TGA From the Bishop Index seemingly immovable prejudice or fear. Use proper tools, your

From the Bishop 2 Spring cleaning Bible, prayer – both spoken and silent, seek forgiveness if you

Cathrine Muston 3 should, clear your heart and appointed to Anglicare mind for the presence of God, for mission seek out the counsel of priest or

Around the Parishes 4-5 Have you filled out your census people than ever before have spiritual mentor. form yet? Did you eventually marked the box No Religion over Remember the words of Odyssey House to 4 get online? Across Australia the same period. That category the first letter to the Church in partner with HREC people reported confusion and has increased from almost 19% Bishop Kay Goldsworthy Thessalonica, “In everything give frustration as the website crashed in 2006 to 22% in 2011. thanks, for this is the will of God Korumburra farewells 5 and the information meant to be Perhaps some see this shift and keeps us focussed not on the in Christ Jesus” (1THESS 5:18). Jenny Ramage recorded on Tuesday 9 August as the end for Christian faith in Spirit of grace alive and present, Find one thing every single day had to be delayed until people secular Australia. It’s useful to but on the grudges and gripes OSL Training and 6 of spring for which you can give could get back online or fill in a note though that it is a margin of day to day life in the company Fellowship day thanks. And do. Give thanks to God. paper Census form and post it. of only 3% across those years. of others. For health, or friendship restored, I had planned to be quietly Some of this change The philosopher Sea Sunday, Port Albert 6 “ Take the next or a new perception of the mystery at home, pen at the ready to will be due to the Alain De Botton in of God’s love in Christ. For a native

From the Schools 8 complete our form. However due changing pattern swipe at an old his book Religion flower or animal. For the music and to the birth of a granddaughter of migration. Some for Atheists points and seemingly the colours of earth, sky, sea. For Rich Lanham: 9 a few weeks earlier than of it is due to the to the poverty of a abundance. Give thanks that you Solid Foundation anticipated I spent Census night movement identified immovable position which fails to can give. That you have enough. in another city. A number of by sociologist Hugh recognise the depths And then some. Reach out and tell Ann Miller: 9 new billboards had sprung up in McKay as SBNR, prejudice that religion offers the Christians and their bodies another person about how your life local shopping centres and other “Spiritual But Not or fear.” human community. has changed since knowing Jesus’ prominent places. The message Religious”. Some Tim Fletcher: 10 “Religion is above all forgiveness. Give thanks for the on them read, “Not Religious of it is due to the ways in which Timeless truths a symbol of what exceeds us and power of prayer to transform lives anymore? Mark no religion on the Christian churches have not an education in the advantages as the Holy Spirit wills.

Editorial 10 the 2016 census”. adequately met the changing of recognising our paltriness. It God’s love for the people I have since been on the needs of people seeking faith has natural sympathies with all of Gippsland is real, true and Existentially bored? 11 website of the Atheist Foundation and meaning in a 21st Century those aspects of existence which unstinting. The challenge for of Australia to read more of their world. Some of it is the cost of decentre us: glaciers, oceans, those of us who know Christ’s Earth Care Card 11 message encouraging Australians past abuse and cover-ups which microscopic life forms, newborn power to save, to heal and to to mark No Religion on the 2016 have been the subject of scrutiny babies, the resonant language of bring new life is working out Faith and Work: 12 Census form. This isn’t the first since the late 1990s. Milton’s Paradise Lost. Being put how we can be better equipped Helen Mundy time that people have been And, I suspect some of it is in our place by something larger, to tell the story of his love in encouraged toward a no religion because those of us who are older, greater than ourselves is Diocesan Calendar 12 our communities. In parishes, option. However, it’s the first Christians; who meet around the not a humiliation; it should be schools, prisons and hospitals, time that the option to put No scriptures and share together in accepted as a relief from our encouraging those in our care Religion was placed as the first Eucharist, have either forgotten insanely hopeful ambitions for to grow in their discipleship and Gippsland The box in the list of possible options how to tell others that story of our lives”. help others to come to Christ is Anglican for that question. love and its workings in our lives This spring could be just the of utmost importance. There has been a marked or feel we can’t speak from under right season for all of us to do some No doubt come next April we Member of Australasian Religious change in how people have the weight of the shame of past internal spring cleaning. Get out will hear of the rise in numbers Press Association answered the question about sins, and bad behaviour. the proverbial duster and clear the of those who marked the Member of Community Newspapers religion in the last two Census That’s a lot of baggage, cobwebs. Be like the housewife of Association of Victoria “No Religion” box in the 2016 Registered by Australia Post years. Almost 64% of Australians most of it unhelpful to our the parable sweeping everywhere Australian Census. I pray that Print Post Number 34352/00018 answered yes to being Christian proclamation of God’s good news to find the thing of value which neither you nor I will be a reason in 2006. In 2011 this had dropped of love for the world. It infiltrates was lost. Look into the corners for anyone to do that again. The Gippsland Anglican is the offcial to 61%. At the same time more local worshipping communities where harboured hurts and long newspaper of and is published by The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland, held grudges think they can safely Peace and grace, 453 Raymond Street, hide away and stay out of sight. Sale, Victoria, 3850. Which of course they don’t. Take www.gippsanglican.org.au the next swipe at an old and

Editor: Jan Down Tel: 0407 614 661 Email: [email protected] Contributions are due by 15th of DIOCESE OF GIPPSLAND the month prior to publication Under the auspices of the Safe Church Training Agreement Layout by Devine Design of the National Council of Churches in Australia Printed by Fairfax Media, 30-32 Grandlee Drive, Safe Church Awareness Workshops 2016 Wendouree, Victoria, 3355. will be held at The editor reserves the right of St Paul’s Anglican Church, Korumburra fnal choice and format of material Saturday 20 August 2016 9:30 am to 4:00 pm included in each issue. The Gippsland Anglican and the editor cannot and necessarily verify any material used St Paul’s Anglican Church, Warragul in this publication. Views contained in submitted material are those Saturday 22 October 2016 9:30 am to 4:00 pm of contributors. To register please email: your name, parish, Advertising Rates position in parish, contact email and phone to: Please contact the editor for all advertising submissions, costing [email protected] and enquiries, including about inserts in the newspaper. A full Cost: $30 (Invoiced after the event) BYO lunch advertising schedule can be sent out upon request. Enquiries to Brian Norris or Sue Court on (03) 5144 2044

Page 2 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016 TGA

need a helping hand. Her As well as her teaching Cathrine Muston appointed experience as a teacher experience, Cathrine brings means she knows well the well-honed leadership skills issues and concerns of young developed in parish ministry to Anglicare people and families”. over 30 years. While she Cathrine identified one and Philip were living in of her strongest skills as Darwin, Cathrine worked for Cathrine Muston Jan Down “connectivity” – being Darwin Marriage Education able to connect ideas and Inc, now Anglicare NT, people. She said she has conducting marriage and athrine Muston has been interested and involved pre-marriage courses. She been appointed as the in community development was also instrumental in the CDiocesan Community since well before the term development of playgroups Development Offcer (Parish was in common use and in Darwin, and became Partnerships) with Anglicare courses were offered. President of the Playgroup Victoria, beginning her new Archdeacon Philip Association of the Northern role on 1 September. Muston, husband of Cathrine, Territory. Dennis Minster, Program commented “I’m very At the Warragul Anglican Manager at Anglicare, happy for her, as community church, Cathrine has led commented “We’re really development has long been music in Sunday services; excited to have Cathrine on one of her passions and led and hosted small groups board. We know that her interests, and it will be as well as the Marriage experience and passion with a refreshing opportunity to use Course; mentored young young people will stand her in her communication abilities people; and initiated and good stead. We’re excited that in a whole new way after run community lunches. she has that connection with teaching for 20 odd years”. She is also a Lay Reader in parishes in Gippsland.” Cathrine has been teaching the church. Cathrine herself is excited commerce and humanities Cathrine takes over the role about the work ahead, subjects, including Christian of Community Development and has many hopes and Studies, at St Paul’s Grammar Officer from Sarah Gover, ideas. An important goal School in Warragul for the past 12 who finished her seven years is to “help churches build years. Previous to this, she taught of service at the end of 2015, strong community links”. at Warragul Regional College when her family moved She added “The community and Perth Modern School. to Queensland. needs to see that churches offer not just practical and pastoral help, but purpose ANGLICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND and meaning in life”. Interest rates for deposits with the A.D.F. effective from 1 September, 2016 The Community are: Development Offcer’s role is to provide support and • 1.50% At Call encouragement for parishes to • 2.80% Term Deposits to $100,000 enable them to identify ways communities. The PPP Cathrine’s appointment. She • 3.00% Term Deposits over $100,000 in which they can develop committee meets bi-monthly added “Cathrine brings a host Note: Neither the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland nor the Anglican Development responses to community at the Anglicare offce in of skills and wide experience Fund – Gippsland is prudentially supervised by APRA. Contributions to the Fund do needs. The Parish Partnerships Morwell, which is where of the area and of the church, not obtain the beneft of depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959. Program provides seeding Cathrine will be based. and concern for those who grants to assist parishes to Bishop Kay Goldsworthy set up projects in their local said she was delighted with

September 2016 The Gippsland Anglican Page 3 Around the parishes TGA

Photo: Edie Ashley

John Glynn, Dennis Minster and Jane Anderson (both of Anglicare Victoria), Peter and Margaret Down Odyssey House to partner with Hope Restart and The Abbey Feast 2016 in full swing! Education Centre The Abbey Feast 2016 sticky date and pecan baked cheese cake, with caramel Edie Ashley Jeff and the team of assistants sauce and folded Chantilly Peter Down own work properly will be of from Traralgon. cream; or mocha mousse and enormous benefit. Bishop Kay, Chairperson berry liquored gateau. The Interim Committee of the At the same time, the aturday 13 August, the of The Abbey Chapter, As courses were served, Hope Restart and Education Committee has commenced day of the Feast, dawned welcomed everyone to the the warmth of conversation Centre, East Gippsland Inc negotiations with Anglicare Swith blue skies. The 2016 Feast, Archdeacon Ted continued into the afternoon. has announced that Odyssey Victoria to secure them as a A-Frame had been lovingly Gibson led us all in the singing There was interest in the House Victoria has agreed to partner. prepared with a white and of grace “Praise God from upcoming program and plans be a partner as the appointed Anglicare have worked with burgundy colour theme and whom all blessings fow”, and for future developments for service provider for the Centre. Odyssey in other projects, and beautiful table decorations, all the frst course was served: a The Abbey. The Permanent Board is are enthusiastic to be involved set up for the 78 guests who pork and turkey terrine with It was after sweets and expected to be announced over in the project. The procedures had booked for The Abbey an apple and cranberry tartlet; coffee, as people were relaxing coming weeks. and governance protocols Feast 2016. or seafood crepe sautéed in together, that we invited Chief Odyssey has been providing are currently being worked For guests who arrived butter, garlic, dill, white wine Chef, Canon Jeff Richardson rehabilitation services to people through. early there was time for stroll and fnished with cream and and the kitchen support team with substance abuse since Both of these organisations around The Abbey grounds, parmesan cheese. Shelley, Glenda and Debbie The A Frame was alive to come into the A Frame. 1954. Having them working with have well-known names and time to appreciate the lake, spot the koalas, look for the with conversation as people They were greeted with the Board in this facility will be of reputations, which will assist Tawnys and for some to fnd caught up with friends. thanks and applause! The immense importance. They have in all avenues for funding – the beautiful, but hidden The main course was a Feast this year raised about the knowledge and experience Government, public and private. nodding greenhood orchids. choice of marinated lamb $3000 for The Abbey – thanks gained over many years to The proponents for the Doors opened at 11.30am shank on a bed of creamed to all involved. Centre look forward to a provide the best and most and guests were greeted potato with a demi-glazed Archdeacon Edie Ashley productive relationship with effective treatment possible. with a glass of champagne sauce and served with sautéed is Archdeacon of the Eastern They are currently providing both parties during progress or juice, the chance to fnd brussel spouts; or butter Region, Priest, St Peter’s by input to the proposed building of the development of the their seat and enjoy the chicken with rice pilaf and the Lake, Paynesville and design for the project. Knowing Hope Restart and Education antipasto prepared by Canon cashews. The sweets were Abbey Priest. what is needed to support their Centre Inc.

n Sunday 14 August, properties on the precinct in the in paying off the loan more Presentation to Brian Turner at St Paul’s Cathedral, form of two new built units and quickly. The rental from the units OSale, the Rev’d Brian a refurbished old deanery as and old Deanery more than cover Photo: Christine Morris Turner was presented with a well as a refurbished Cathedral. the loan repayments. However certifcate to honour his work It was no small task, but the other streams of income are on the refurbishment of the the abilities of Brian (Bob the not meeting the everyday running cathedral facilities. Lay Canon, Builder) saw it all happen with the costs of the parish. Arthur McPherson, made the object of not only refurbishing the It is unfortunate that what following speech: precinct but providing a future was set out in the appeal to the On behalf of the Cathedral income stream that would help wider Diocese was read that we Parish of St Paul’s Sale it is fund an assistant in ministry for at the cathedral were having my honour and a privilege the Dean. diffculty in paying off the loan. to present this Certifcate of All of this, of course, came As the chairman of chapter I Appreciation to the Reverend at a cost and after realising feel I must bear the blame for Brian Turner. that the income stream from this misunderstanding of the This certifcate is to honour these new facilities was being intent of the desire to have the the work that Brian gave to used to support a lower than loan paid off in a shorter time, this Cathedral in the vision, expected offerings income, thus enabling the cathedral to planning, ability, guidance the Cathedral Chapter started support its concept of funding and leadership of a team that an appeal to enable itself to an assistant priest for the dean. refurbished and built the pay off the building costs and Therefore as a token of facilities that we have available bring the income stream into appreciation and recognition to us today in this precinct. a sounder position to consider of this ongoing income stream We now have a modern an assistant in ministry to| we each personally give Brian multi-purpose hall, annexed to the Dean. our thanks for a job well done The Reverends Brian and Anne Turner, Lay Canon Arthur McPherson the cathedral, a clergy standard It is not the loan that is causing in providing this precinct and Locum Dean, the Rev’d Ken Parker Deanery residence, rental the cathedral to seek assistance to us.

Page 4 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016 TGA Around the parishes

This year the function Celebration was attended by Bishop Kay Goldsworthy, who also presided at the Eucharist and and confrmation Confrmation Service held Orbost the following Sunday morning. George Bridges, f you weren’t at St James from somewhere overseas, at who is in Grade 6 at Hall on Saturday night, 23 enormous expense, was that Orbost Primary School, was IJuly for “The Curse of the famous singing group “Fabba”. the young person confrmed. Mummy” you missed out on the The highlight of the night His parents, Rod and Leanne event of the year. The hall was was the Orbost St James Bridges are members of a riot of fun, food, costumes Players with their production the congregation. and decorations. of “The Curse of the Mummy” Bishop Kay’s visit enabled 145 guests were provided written by the retired rector her to meet the parishioners and with a three course meal and of the parish, now locum, the residents of Orbost, chatting over were entertained throughout Rev’d Bevil Lunson. lunch which followed the service. the evening by the “ladies” The catering team outdid The function on Saturday from the Heavenly Twilight themselves with a vast array night is held annually to Nursing Home and the Nowa of food – soups, casseroles celebrate St James’ day and is a Nowa Men’s Choir. Imported and desserts. major fundraising event.

Above: George Bridges with Bishop Kay and the Rev’d Bevil Lunson

Left: “Ladies” from the Heavenly Twilight Nursing Home entertaining the crowd at St James’ Orbost: Faye, Bevil, Joe, Richard and Barbara Nurturing Christian publishers in difcult places Jane Peters – Wonthaggi

The Wonthaggi Inverloch parish recently He shared the moving story of Lothy joined together in a combined parish Hueang, whose vision is to see Chris- Graeme Hastie sang to the Rev’d Jenny Ramage at her retirement service service where we heard from Sparklit tian books published in her own language National Director, Michael Collie. because “books can go where I cannot”. Michael and his wife Elspeth have been Over lunch Michael shared stories of Korumburra farewells regular visitors since they were linked with the what is happening in different parts of the parish in the early 90s before they went to world through Sparklit (which we discovered Jenny Ramage work in Argentina with CMS. Now National was formerly called SPCK or the Society for Director of Sparklit, Michael is currently Promoting Christian Knowledge). We took time Lyn Gilbert doing globally what he was doing locally in to pray for each area as they were discussed for Jenny’s ministry among Latin America: nurturing emerging indigenous and Michael challenged us to continue to pray the congregation and wider Christian publishers in difficult places. for the work of Sparklit around the world. he Rev’d Jenny Ramage community. has retired, taking her Jenny was also presented Tlast service at St. Paul’s with a “Retirement Survival Korumburra on Sunday 24 July. Kit” containing such items The whole parish of as a bag of marbles (in case Korumburra, including she loses hers), a bucket Poowong, worshipped (for her bucket list), a paper together, with a congregation clip (to hold it all together) and of 100 people, many from some books. groups Jenny was a member The ministers from other of or led, including Rotary, churches in Korumburra Milpara Community House, were able to attend the craft group, youth group and lunch following their own community kitchen. church commitments. After the service all enjoyed It was a happy send-off a soup and sandwich lunch, for Jenny with thanks for her preceded by the presentation ministry in Korumburra and Sparklit National Director, Michael Collie, speaks about Christian book publishing at Wonthaggi of a gift to Jenny from the Poowong and best wishes for parish and speeches of thanks this new phase of her life.

September 2016 The Gippsland Anglican Page 5 Around the parishes TGA Order of St Luke offers training, fellowship day

he Order of St Luke the Physician will hold a Ttraining and fellowship day at Christ Church, Drouin on Saturday 15 October. This Judy and Lloyd George will be a follow-up to the day Laurie Malcolm and Ian Chatfeld entertaining Bunyip parishioners which was held last year at St James’ Church, Traralgon. around 3.00 pm. The OSL will the gospel and not an “optional The theme will be “The also make available books and extra” as it is sometimes Bunyip festivities Question of Healing Services”, literature to assist in developing regarded. The late Bishop the title of a much-read book this ministry. Morris Maddocks, founder of Pam Schembri In June we had a Pleasant by the Rev’d John Richards. The OSL has been active in the Acorn Christian Healing Sunday Afternoon with local The day will be led by the Australia since 1960 and has Foundation, has expressed this he church of St Thomas musicians, Laurie Malcolm Rev’d Lloyd George, the OSL had a presence in Gippsland for well: “The health of a church at Bunyip celebrated and Ian Chatfield providing State Chaplain for Victoria, over forty years. It continues will depend on the wholeness its Patronal Festival on great country and western with support from the Latrobe to operate the retreat house of its life in prayer... a church T Sunday 2 July with a special songs. Money collected Valley Chapter of the Order. “Allansfeld” at Rhyll on Philip with a devoted purpose of sung Eucharist followed by a from the gold coin donation The day will begin at Island. The order began in the being in Christ will be a magnifcent high morning tea. was sent to a chosen 10.00 am with morning USA in 1947, but it is part of healing church”. The congregation enjoyed charity and the parishioners tea, followed by a program a much larger movement from Prior registration is not the best of Bunyip cooking supplied afternoon tea. A beginning at 10.30. Some the early twentieth century required and all interested attractively displayed, with tea great afternoon was had by suggestions will be presented which has brought a world- people are welcome and and coffee served from shiny all and we look forward to for healing ministry in local wide revival and renewal of encouraged to attend on silver pots. The very social another fun afternoon later churches, whether as part of understanding of the ministry this day. Tea and coffee will gathering was enjoyed by all. in the year. regular worship or in services of healing. be provided but attenders specially organised for healing. It is now an ecumenical are asked to provide their There will be opportunities order, found in many countries. own lunch. For any enquiries for sharing and discussion. Its purpose is to support and or further information Football Sunday Following lunch there will be encourage healing ministry, please contact Lloyd George a healing service, to conclude believing it to be essential to on 0427 460 485. Carolyn Raymond religion. Just as players in Morwell a football team must all be disciplined in their preparation t St Mary’s we see by attending training regularly, GFS youth members, many of ourselves as trend- so we must “train as Christ’s whom she had mentored along Asetters! We recently followers” through prayer and with other team members. celebrated this important sport, worship. We must work together As a member of the our love for the game and (of as a team, working with God Traralgon Parish GFS Branch course) our particular teams. and striving to win the match, to and the Diocesan Council Football Sunday was a Wow! bring God’s kingdom on earth since 1991, her contributions We all wore scarves, beanies as it is in heaven. to the Diocesan, State and and (if we had them) football To assist those who can’t by association National GFS shirts. Even the altar was decked do without football, we also family have been significant. out with football scarves. I think have an on-going footy tipping Maree served as diocesan GFS some people had a competition competition. This is fun, but secretary as well as her two about who could wear the most also a way to raise money for terms as Victorian State Council outrageous beanie. We were all our mission project. Secretary. wonderfully warm on a cold After the service, the Much of the organisational winter Sunday. congregation was treated to a work associated with past It is amazing that no one lunch of homemade soup and Diocesan Cowwarr Weir picnics, has thought to include Football sports days, theatre sports, muffns – decorated in football camps, adult fellowship and Sunday in the lectionary; colours. We bit into a muffn Maree Barnes leader development weekends, perhaps St Mary’s should decorated in, for example, bright to name just a few, was inspired recommend it for next year! blue and white, or black and and accomplished by Maree. The Rev’d David Head even red. This was quite an amazing Vale Maree Barnes Recently, despite her failing preached about football. He experience. Thank you Danielle 19/12/52 – 11/08/16 health, we were delighted that acknowledged that for some and Annalise, we all enjoyed our she was able to assist in the people football is almost a football muffns. Mary Nicholls to find Jesus as their friend, preparations and celebration and through Him, develop of our 130th Anniversary of their individual talents, was her GFS Gippsland, held at The Behind the highlights, fun, motivation, sustaining her quiet, Summit, Trafalgar East. It was challenges and memories unheralded ministry. an opportunity for her to meet experienced by many hundreds What a joy to see the again with the many GFS of children, youth and families sparkle in the eye and hear her friends travelling from Ballarat, through Gippsland GFS empathy, compassion and love and Sydney. Yes, her Kidsplus+ sponsored activities, as she would describe a child’s GFS family was extensive. We the astute observer only would delighted reaction to a new will all miss her, and give thanks have recognised the hard work, challenge and achievement. for her faithful service. Our love enthusiasm, and faithfulness Likewise how proud she was and prayers continue with her in service of Maree Barnes. Her to learn of family celebrations family: Keith, Katrina, Michelle passion to encourage children and goal attainments of past and Tracy. May she rest in peace. All decked out for Football Sunday at St Mary’s Morwell

Page 6 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016 TGA Around the parishes

Photos: Ross Jacka The congregation enjoying coffee and cake after the service, at Yarragon’s unique coffee shop Fellowship at Fozigobble Allan Huggins On August 14, Shirley Gibson was welcomed into Sea Sunday St John’s Port Albert ozigobble Café is the the congregation as a baptised The Rev’d Jo White and Andrea Fleming (in the red boots) with St John’s congregation on Sea Sunday next stop after each member, and this was FSunday morning service celebrated at Fozigobble’s at Yarragon. This unique after the service. At her Jo White Sunday on Sunday 7 August. still a number of fshermen Seafarers work and live working out of Port Albert as coffee shop on the highway baptism, Shirley spoke in certain isolation and well as many pleasure craft. is where all the congregation with great feeling about her n Sea Sunday the small often dangerous and harsh Earlier this year Port is welcomed after worship. life, and the losses she has congregation of St conditions. As an island nation Albert celebrated the 175th The new practice has proved experienced. Becoming part OJohn’s, Port Albert, was Australia relies on seafarers anniversary of the establishment an excellent way of bonding of St Mark’s Yarragon has swelled by the addition of a for the provision of all manner of the Port. St John’s Anglican together for the members of helped her fnd healing and a number of local fshermen and of goods. Seafarers who ply Church is named after its patron St Mark’s Yarragon. new peace. members of the Coast Guard our waters and dock in our Saint John, who was himself a for a lunch at the Port Albert ports rely on the Mission to fsherman working in the family Community Hall followed Seafarers for support and on- business until Jesus called him by a service which I led shore facilities that contribute and his brother to leave their and an address by the CEO to their wellbeing. The Mission nets and follow him. Jesus said of the Mission to Seafarers, is one of the oldest charities in to James and John, “Do not be Andrea Fleming. Australia dating back to 1857. afraid; from now on you will be Sea Sunday is an international St John’s Port Albert is proud catching people”. (Luke 5:10) day of prayer for those who to be associated with the Mission The Friends of St John’s work at sea, and is held across to Seafarers and has chosen it as presented the Mission with a the Anglican Communion on the their particular charity because cheque and an offering was also second Sunday in July each year. of the Port’s proud history and made by those attending. The congregation of St John’s, long connection with the sea The Rev’d Jo White is Port Albert, held their own Sea and with seafarers. There are Rector of the parish of Yarram.

evident at the Hymnfest at Paynesville when people came Shirley Gibson at her baptism, with the Rev’d Sue Jacka and sponsor from the different church Alison Petschel congregations and together we enjoyed creating a great Moe and Newborough sound, singing old and new to amalgamate songs, all of which fed the soul. The amalgamation of Moe Muston recently met with Fay also taught us new songs and Newborough parishes, the wardens to discuss what by singing unaccompanied; which was initiated by the each parish might consider we echoed each line just to parishioners, has been as essential conditions for make sure we were able to approved in principle by a successful amalgamation, follow. “Unaccompanied Bishop in Council, and is now and how to ensure that the singing does not have to be proceeding. This amalgamation traditions and identities of scary”, said Fay. “Most people of two parishes into one is the each parish are safeguarded as can sing, and singing is one first of its kind in the Gippsland much as possible. Parishioners way of building community diocese, which raises some were asked beforehand to as well as being inclusive interesting technical questions. communicate their thoughts and welcoming.” This was The Registrar Brian Norris on these questions with certainly our experience at and Archdeacon Philip their wardens. Hymnfest the Hymnfest. Afternoon tea helped us Paynesville prepare our voices for the second half of the program, June Treadwell Fay Magee leads singing at when Fay introduced us to the Hymnfest different ways of singing short songs, such as those n Sunday 24 July we Fay, a musician and long- composed by John Bell, were delighted to time music educator, has always which can be used more or Owelcome Fay McGee been involved in congregational less spontaneously. to conduct a Hymnfest at and communal singing. Her Thanks to Fay for a great St Peter’s by the Lake. experience and leadership were afternoon’s singing!

September 2016 The Gippsland Anglican Page 7 From the schools TGA

Production gave opportunities for student development Based on the smash hit 1991 Disney movie, Beauty and the t Paul’s Anglican Beast tells the story of beautiful Grammar School’s and intelligent Belle, a young Smusical production of woman who feels out of place Beauty and the Beast was a in her provincial French village huge success with over 1400 and fnds herself imprisoned tickets sold over the four shows in the magical castle of a held at the West Gippsland terrifying beast. Arts Centre. The musical was St Paul’s teacher, Casey accompanied by a 32 piece Hall, who directed and orchestra, and the School choreographed the musical invited children in the production said “Being part of community to dress as their a show such as this is a unique favourite Beauty and the Beast experience that presents character at Saturday’s matinee, students with opportunities where they had the opportunity for development in ways that to meet and greet the cast after are unparalleled in everyday the performance. school life, and I can safely Having dedicated countless say that each student involved hours for rehearsals, produc- in Beauty and the Beast 2016 tion, direction, set construction, will walk away from this costume organisation and experience a more resilient, stage props, students, staff and Year 11 student Grace Attard as “Belle” in the yellow gown which took over 70 hours to create and Year insightful and fulfilled parents are feeling very proud 12 student Samuel Chilver as the “Beast” in the St Paul’s musical production of Beauty and the Beast young person”. of the outcome of the show. Finley thanks the people who saved his life young, grateful Finley, who is the eldest son The 10-year-old has been Gippsland Grammar of Kelly and Glenn Warren, had blown away by the support of A student is going to Long-Gap Oesophageal Atresia, the community. lengths to give back to the meaning his oesophagus wasn’t “Fin’s enthusiasm was pure hospital that saved his life. connected to his stomach. motivation for us all. Fin’s Year 4 student Finley Warren “With every birthday, we determination to give back to is raising money to say thank to reminisce about those diffcult the hospital is truly inspiring the Royal Children’s Hospital early days,” mum Kelly said. and brings us so much joy. We by busking and bike riding from “The rawness of the emotions couldn’t be prouder,” Kelly his home in Maffra all the way can make it seem like Fin’s beamed. to the hospital in Melbourne – arrival was just yesterday.” They have called their that’s a whopping 230km. Finley and his support crew fundraising efforts “A It’s been ten years since Finley was initially aiming to raise Celebration of Little Feet and was a patient in the Newborn $10,000 or $1000 for each year Big Hearts”. Intensive Care Unit at the Royal since the hospital saved his Finley is busy training for Children’s Hospital. Three life but with the current tally his ride which will leave Maf- major surgeries and around-the- at $9,500 it seems they will fra on October 2 to arrive to in clock care were needed to save exceed all their expectations and Melbourne on October 6, the his life. wildest dreams. anniversary of his discharge date.

Finley Warren and friends You can follow his progress and training on the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ACelebrationofLittleFeetandBigHearts.

Page 8 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016 TGA For young disciples Solid Foundation

Rich Lanham

e all know that when we build something we need to Wfocus on the foundation. I remember as a young person building with playing cards. That’s where you take playing cards and lean them against each other and stack them in an attempt to build a large house or tower. The Rev’d Rich Lanham We had a game where we would build a house of cards and shoot paper wads at As our creator, God knows how them, propelled by rubber bands. It was much we need a strong foundation. As Christians and their bodies a fun process and I remember that as we people we are continually confronted improved the design of our structures by moments and situations that test Ann Miller we also improved the destructive ability our resilience, our mental and physical of our rubber band slingshots. I knew strength. There is no escaping this How should Christians regard their bodies, and behave towards them? that I needed to concentrate on the aspect of human life, but there is a way initial design if I wanted to build a large, to prepare for it. There are many verses This question has exercised Christians well for those who are great at caring for strong structure that could withstand in the Bible that give us guidance and and other thinkers for generations, others, but tend to ignore or downplay the onslaught of paper projectiles. If I advice in this regard but I will give going in cycles. their own needs. Imagine you have been were careless with the placement of the you one: The Ancient Greeks, for example, given a baby to look after, and it is your frst few cards that would impact on the went against the mores of the day complete responsibility. Wouldn’t you, structural integrity of the whole building “Anyone who listens to my teaching in making nakedness (especially in once you had got over the shock, do all in and it would be easily destroyed. and follows it is wise, like a person men) heroic rather than shameful. The your power to make sure that baby was Similarly new houses, apartment who builds a house on solid rock. Romans had a more prudish attitude to safe, happy and healthy, that it achieved blocks and skyscrapers need engineers Though the rain comes in torrents the body, but like the Greeks, celebrated its full potential? That is essentially what to be meticulous in their calculations and the foodwaters rise and the the body beautiful in Art and had many you have been given by God, a vehicle to when they design the foundations for winds beat against that house, it rituals that required nakedness. convey you around this world, to be God’s these buildings. Otherwise whatever is won’t collapse because it is built The Victorians took prudishness to an hands, feet and eyes, to be God’s body built may come crumbling down. on bedrock. But anyone who hears extreme, covering the legs of pianos lest on Earth (Teresa of Avila paraphrased). Interestingly, we are very similar my teaching and dismisses it is they cause offence or lustful thoughts, in our need to have a frm foundation foolish, like a person who builds a and the Post Modern era seems to have So how do we look after this for our lives. We could think of this in house on sand. When the rains and wonderful gift? gone to the opposite extreme with an terms of the strength of our physical foods come and the winds beat obsession with “perfection” of the body Here again we can get very confused bodies or we can look more deeply at against that house, it will collapse in the west. with the plethora of conflicting advice our hearts and minds. After all often with a mighty crash.” When Jesus Of course what is “beautiful” to one coming at us. Most people equate the choices we make as we care for our had fnished saying these things, culture may be seen quite differently in healthy lifestyle with diet, so we’ll deal physical bodies are a refection of how the crowds were amazed at his another. The Western obsession with with that. This is not to minimize the we are feeling. teaching, for he taught with real painfully thin androgynous-looking authority – quite unlike their importance of moderate exercise, rest, female bodies would not be seen as teachers of religious law. sleep, work, play, ultra violet light and desirable by, say, the Buganda of Uganda, social connectedness for good health. TGA Readership Survey Matthew 7:24-29 whose perception of female beauty runs Jesus continually points us to the to well covered curvaceousness! (If you National Dietary Guidelines consist of: love of God and to the truth that we are are fat you are not starving, in cultures Eating only what your body needs. valued and cherished by our creator. where starvation is a recent memory!) Of course eating should also be Jesus desires us to understand that pleasurable, but this should not be the Can we find any help in this there are many voices telling us how only criterion. Drinking plenty of water best to live and thrive, but the way to minefield in the Bible? (2 litres, more in hot weather). be complete is to return to the source of Perhaps the most quoted verse in this Daily intake should be mainly our existence: to seek our creator and context is from 1 CORINTHIANS 6 V19 : “Do of vegetables (5+) some fruit (2+) discover the way we were meant to live, you not know that your body is a temple wholegrains (about the same as love and fourish. of the Holy Spirit within you, which you vegetables); protein – either as flesh, Thank you to all who took the time The message of hope Jesus proclaims have from God”. For many people this eggs, nuts, legumes and seeds, dairy or to participate in TGA’s readership is freedom from fear and reconnection is enough for them to respect and care alternatives; small amounts of oils and survey, which is now closed. with our creator. The greatest engineer of for their bodies, but apparently not occasional treats. The results, especially in the form all, who lovingly established our being, for all, or we would not have so many The traffic light colours are helpful of comments and suggestions, desires us to be strong in the knowledge Christians who overeat, smoke, drink to here: red for foods to be avoided or used of God’s love and purpose. Jesus is were enlightening and excess and ignore the warning signals of very occasionally: cakes, biscuits and our rock, our frm foundation; faith in encouraging, and will assist us in their bodies. (Yes folks, there are plenty!) lollies; orange for “sometimes” foods; his message will give us the strength planning and improving For me the most important verse and green for unlimited (essentially The Gippsland Anglican. to withstand and move through the is from JOHN 15.5: “I am the vine , you some vegetables). There is controversy challenges of life. Feedback is welcome at any time, are the branches…” That implies to about the guidelines which I am happy and may be sent to God bless you all. me the most intimate of relationships, to debate! [email protected] my body being part of the body or phone 0407 614 661. The Rev’d Rich Lanham is Missional of Christ. Ann Miller is a doctor in Sale with an Jan Down, Editor Priest of 123 and Chaplain Another concept I have found helpful is interest in spirituality and health. She is at Gippsland Grammar School. that of the gift of the body, and this works a parishioner at St Paul’s Cathedral.

September 2016 The Gippsland Anglican Page 9

TGA Reflection EDITORIAL

Couch surfers in good company While the minimum wage has recently been raised, Newstart and Youth Allowance benefits have not. Anglicare Victoria’s CEO, Paul McDonald, wrote in June this year “There has been no real increase in the Newstart / Youth Allowance for more than 20 years. As a result these payments are now sitting 50% below the current poverty line”. Mr McDonald pointed out that this hole in Australia’s safety net is occurring at the same time as a major drop in housing affordability. For young people who move out of home for tertiary study, perhaps in Melbourne, or a regional centre, this can manifest as chronic housing insecurity. A room in a share-house, costing anywhere between $100 – $250 per week, might last only a few months before the household breaks up – for any number of reasons – and the student’s studies are disrupted by another move. This is costly, stressful and time-consuming, but for many Tim Fletcher at Synod in May young people, it is their only option. A country as stable and wealthy as Australia ought to be able to ensure that Luke encourages us to “know the every citizen can find secure and affordable housing. Students necessarily certainty of the things you have been living away from home should not have to be constantly worried by financial Timeless and housing pressures. taught” (Luke 1:4); John tells us that he wrote these things down “so that we How did we come to this point where we seem to have accepted that young people who are studying or unemployed do not have an adequate truths would know the truth” (John 21:25); Revelation warns us “not to add or living allowance or affordable housing? And what should we do about it? subtract from God’s Word” (Rev Jesus was born into a poor family and, as an itinerant teacher and Tim Fletcher 22:21); and Paul tells Timothy he is healer, did not have a home of his own. He said to a scribe who wanted writing so that people might know how to follow him, “Foxes have holes... but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head” (Matt 8:20). However, he would have experienced first century any years ago I was a Lifeline to conduct themselves (1 tiM 3:15). counsellor, and became a Some would say, because the Bible Jewish hospitality; when he came into a town, he could expect to be offered MLifeline shift supervisor. does not tell them specifcs like which somewhere to stay. And when he sent the disciples out two by two, he Perhaps the greatest lesson I learnt car to buy, or sport to play, that it is expected them to be received into people’s homes. from this counselling experience was So Jesus’ situation was not exactly that of the couch surfer in 21st century open to interpretation. Others would that I don’t have all the answers. Australia. But God incarnate was poor and dependent on the generosity of suggest that every interpretation is of I went on to work for the Salvation others. God chose to enter the world in this way; to be told there was no equal value. Army in another counselling role and room in the inn, but welcomed into a stable. These views would seem to diminish was again reminded I don’t have all All through scripture, God reveals himself as on the side of the poor. God’s Word of its ability to shape us. the answers. Now I am the pastor of a “Who is like the Lord our God...? He raises the poor from the dust, and lifts Rather than hermeneutical gymnastics small, multi congregation church and the needy from the ash heap” (Psalm 113:5, 7). If God cares, so should we. once again I am reminded in many we need to seek the plain and obvious pastoral situations I certainly do not meaning of each passage. To look more have all the answers. at our interpretation rather than the However, as a Christian, I have plain meaning of the text would seem discovered a source of answers. The to be “elevating our thoughts more answers I have that I can be sure of highly than we should, and to not be are the answers I fnd in God’s Word. open to the transformative action of In pastoral, preaching and prophetic God’s will’ (RoM 12:2-3). circumstances the Bible provides While one person’s interpretation of some sure and certain answers. Those the Bible cannot be said to be “right”, answers relate to God’s will, in God’s it is possible to say some interpretations world, for God’s people. are “wrong”. And, while we might read familiar passages or parables at different times in our lives and they have different application, the core meaning will never be reversed. God’s commands to faith, love, righteousness and justice are always confronting us with new applications for each new circumstance while the core truths of salvation and God’s character remain. As a church we identify and clarify the timeless truths of God’s word in creeds and the Articles and liturgy and synods. This process enables us to identify core and peripheral truths. It enables us to stay in fellowship with those with whom we disagree in matters of interpretation. But let us never assume that by fnding another interpretation we can mould the Bible’s truth to become palatable to societies’ trends, or our own.

The Rev’d Tim Fletcher is Rector at Corner Inlet.

Page 10 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016 TGA

David Head A society of demoralized people is unlikely to revolt, even though it sits on a powder-keg of any traditional cultures lack pent-up frustration. But credibility what we in Western society and relevance and meaningful vision call medical depression or M counteract demoralization, and this even have a word for it. But in our pent-up frustration can be released modern consumer culture, levels of when a positive, credible cause or depression are growing rapidly and the credible leadership is added to a age of onset of depression has plummeted person’s experience. from around 30 to around 14! In his new book Beyond Belief, However, much so-called depression Australian Social Researcher Hugh is unresponsive to anti-depressant Mackay argues that a growing number drugs, and so a new type of mental of people and particularly young dysfunction that mimics depression is people are abandoning religion in now called “demoralization” or “losing favour of a different kind of spirituality morale for living”. It is a psycho- – one not restricted by institutions spiritual crisis where a person feels or guidelines or rules. He calls it unable to locate meaning and purpose the SBNR, the “Spiritual But Not and existential pleasure in the activity Religious” movement. of life and living. In an argument somewhat similar Individualism, materialism, hyper- to what has been said above, competitiveness, greed, overwork and Hugh states that society has been debt are all part of this demoralization bombarded with mass-marketing and are very negative factors in both where we are told that life’s greatest personal psychological health and in satisfaction is to “buy, buy, buy” general social well-being. Important and that will give us meaning and resilience traits such as patience, happiness. We are not to be allowed forbearance, and inner courage and to experience sadness, pain, and loss, strength have given way to short but to be flled with expectations of attention spans, over indulgence and to a constant happiness by the gaining quick-fx, instant gratifcation approach of material possessions and by to life. having whatever we desire. This leads to what Noam Chomsky Although many people are calls a philosophy of futility, where not drawn to the churches, people feel bereft of any power to they still believe there is a spiritual control or create signifcant meaning Existentially bored? dimension out there to be found in their consumer lives. People are and explored. How do the churches existentially bored. Boredom is caused then happiness cannot be found So we are faced very much today bridge this relevance gap not because an activity is necessarily and maintained, and boredom and with the power of attraction of that has grown between them and inherently boring, but because it is not demoralization occur. pseudo-messiahs such as violent the SBNR’s? meaningful or relevant to a particular A society’s “moral net” or jihadists and of mind-blowing drugs What sort of church community person. Existential boredom is where “infrastructure of well-being such as Ice. Our younger generation and church leadership are needed to a person fnds all of life ultimately needs” must be met to maintain have generally become a trance inspire meaningfulness, relevance and uninteresting and unrewarding. the psycho-spiritual health of its generation with an insatiable desire credibility in our consumer driven and Rampant consumerism habituates members. However, human culture for any new technology that can demoralized society? people to an endless conveyor belt of has been mutating into a sociopathic give momentary bytes of pleasure. “instant gratifcation” with no resulting marketing machine dominated by This helps explain their fascination The Rev’d David Head is Rector long-term enjoyment or pleasure. economic priorities and psychological with Facebook and other instant of Morwell. Current philosophical thought states manipulation. The more lost and connectivity apps that appear to give that happiness is made up of a triangle disconnected and spiritually empty constant group involvement without of absolute needs that must be met or people become, the more susceptible any actual physical interaction, and (Much of the above you cannot achieve happiness. This they become to possible dangerous which downsizes awareness of life was inspired by an article in the is an equal-sided triangle made up of purveyors of persuasion who proclaim going on around them, and profoundly New Internationalist April 2016 Pleasure, Purpose, and Meaning. If they can give meaning and purpose blunts their emotional resources edition called “The demoralised one or more of these needs is missing to life. and responsiveness. mind” by John F Schumaker.)

ABC Radio National’s Religion Programs EARTH CARE CARD – Tips and inspiration for churches and households Frequencies: Bairnsdale - 106.3 FM (3ABC RN) Melbourne - 621 AM (3RN) # 22 Build a tiny house... Religion and Ethics Report ...or at least one smaller than the current average. A 1950s house on Wednesday 5:30 pm – repeated: Thursday 5:30 am a suburban block took far less energy to construct, heat and cool, www.abc.net.au/radionational/program/religionandethicsreport while leaving enough land to keep chooks, grow vegetables, fruit trees Encounter and fowers to bring the bees. There is now a movement of people who Saturday 5:00 pm – repeated: Wednesday 1:00 pm are going even smaller, constructing really tiny houses, often in www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/encounter a deliberate rejection of consumerism, and a desire to live very lightly The Spirit of Things on the planet. Take a look at some inspiring examples, including some Sunday 6:00 pm – repeated: Tuesday 1:00 pm tiny houses in a Gippsland eco-village, built out of mainly recyled www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/spiritofthings materials at really tiny cost: Go to simplicity collective.com and search Rhythm Divine Photo: Lily Aagren for “tiny house” where you can see some short videos of the building Sunday 6:00 am – repeated: Monday 1:00 am (music program) of different tiny dwellings. www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rhythmdivine

September 2016 The Gippsland Anglican Page 11 Faith at work TGA Diocesan calendar

First Saturday of each month: all welcome to walk the labyrinth at the end of Back Beach Road at San Remo, Phillip Island, from 10:30 am. September

3 11:00 am Installation of the Rev’d Susanna Pain as Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, Sale

17 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Anam Cara Quiet Day with Bp Kay Goldsworthy at St Paul’s Cathedral, Sale

23 Weekend Working Bee with Rod Burney at The Abbey, Raymond Island, painting Illawarra. Commences 5:00 pm Friday, concludes after lunch Sunday.

27–30 MU offers a holiday for families in need of respite. Contact the Rev’d Thelma Langshaw to nominate a family: 0428 458 367 L-R Neil McLennan, Elaine Hofen, Joan Herrmann, Helen Mundy, Jenny McLennan – celebrating 10 years of St James’ Trash and Treasure October

2 2:00 pm Blessing of the animals at St John’s, One of the challenges for Port Albert Helen Mundy Helen and the other volunteers is when a lot of donations come 2 3:00 pm on the oval at The Abbey, Raymond Island: Op shop manager Orbost in at once, which then have to Blessing of the animals and pets be sorted, clothing sometimes Jan Down washed and ironed, and then 14 5:00 pm Friday – after lunch on Sunday obvious presence in the town displayed on racks. Some at The Abbey, Raymond Island: as well as providing funds. things are donated to Lifeline, A visual introduction to the Camino de Santiago etired farmer, now Helen comments, “We are while rags are given to trucking walk, with the Rev’d John Baldock and team. op shop manager, out there as the church. We’re companies or garages. Very R Helen Mundy, says being seen as the church in little goes to the tip. 15 10:00 am – 3:00 pm: Order of St Luke Training Day “Op shops have come a long the community”. The Rev’d There are tiring days, but at Christ Church, Drouin – details page 6 way over many years”. She Bevil Lunson, former Rector, Helen generally enjoys the remembers when the old now locum at St James’, work. She says “If I wasn’t 16 2:00 – 4:00 pm: Music Café at St Mary’s Trafalgar opportunity shop in a side often drops in to the shop to doing this, what would I be street in Orbost had chat with people. doing? We like to be busy. It 27 Bishop in Council meeting trestle tables with Helen tells keeps us happy”. bags of clothes on “We are out there the story of a Helen’s husband Neville 29 10:00 am – 3:00 pm: Sustainability Festival: displays, demonstrations, stalls, products and food, them selling for $1 as the church. woman who was died seventeen years ago, after a bag. “They’ve browsing the which she and her son continued info sharing, activities, crafts and games, improved their We’re being seen b o o k s h e l v e s , the family farm for another for all the family. Details: 5156 6580 standards”, she says, as the church in and said “You ten years. Before running beef especially in terms don’t even have cattle, Neville and Helen had November of presentation. “It’s the community”. a Bible in the grown crops such as borlotti, not just the poor and shop!” So they cannellini and kidney beans, 4 Friday evening – Saturday afternoon, needy who come in. A lot took note and or maize. However, Helen Diocesan Retreat led by the Rev’d Ken Parker of people just love op shops now make sure there are says “it petered out”. These – scrounging around for always Bibles on the shelves, industries have gone from the 20 2:00 pm 160th Celebrations at Christ Church, bargains”, Helen explains. which they find people area, she explained, due to the Tarraville: from 2:00 pm: exhibition of memorabilia Helen has been working in will buy. cheaper prices for dried beans with afternoon tea served throughout the afternoon St James Trash and Treasure Part of Helen’s role as from overseas. in the historic Tarraville School House; for ten years, ever since manager involves selecting Helen came back into 2:30 pm Civic Reception, Christ Church Tarraville; another parishioner friend, volunteers – all women so far the church after Neville Jenny McLennon and her – and organising the roster died, though she had always 5:00 pm Evensong with guest preacher the Right husband, suggested the church for the shop, which is open helped with church cooking, Reverend Kay Goldsworthy, Bishop of Gippsland, run a more visible op shop in five and a half days a week. so the connection had been at Christ Church Tarraville the main street. A group of She says sometimes it can be maintained. Of her faith she women from the church were hard to find enough workers says, “It’s just part of me. It’s involved in setting it up: Helen to cover the shifts. There are just how I am”. Apart from and Jenny, Elaine Hofen and currently fifteen volunteers the op shop management, Joan Hermann. They were able on the books. Helen also assists in other to rent the shop from a hotel in So many goods are donated ways, such as church catering, the town. that space has become an issue, working for the fete, and Helen enjoys the fellowship and Helen is excited about a being St James’ treasurer. of co-workers and talking to new venture: they are opening A highlight for the op shop people who come in. It tends up the next door shop, as a was its ten year anniversary. to be quiet over winter, but a trial, and hope that this will Held in combination with the lot of tourists come in during enable them to expand beyond Christmas break-up, the event the warmer months. clothes, books and bric-a-brac attracted about 70 people who The op shop helps to give to smaller pieces of furniture came along to enjoy a festive the Anglican church another as well. meal and entertainment.

Page 12 The Gippsland Anglican September 2016