Wonthaggi Students Hike to Higher Ed with Federation University to Find Courage

The President’s Creative Spirit Sale starts Synod report Faith at work Synod address Festival Messy Church Margaret Hancock page 6 page 2 page 5 page 5 page 12 TheAnglican Gippsland Volume 114, Number 5, June 2017 Published in Gippsland Diocese since 1904 Wonthaggi students hike to higher ed with Federation University to find courage. It really has provided assistance. changed me, and I think in Dr Tim Harrison, Senior the past few days I’ve learnt Lecturer in the Faculty of and grown so much. I truly Education and Arts and Course am grateful.” Coordinator for the Bachelor Wonthaggi teacher, Kate Hill of Social Science, said “It’s wrote: “I’ve read some of the wonderful that we have testimonials the kids have programs such as this where written…they’ve really moved regional and rural high school me. I know they are feeling more students can connect with confident about themselves and current university students”. their futures, and are clearer “One of the key messages about the fact that they can that we deliver whist on the reach success, despite some hike is that further study, of the big challenges in their whether that be at University lives currently. or through TAFE, is accessible “The connections they’ve to everyone, and that students’ formed both with students and educational history does adults will be long lasting, not dictate their educational and will hopefully remind future”, Dr Harrison said. them that there are always The effectiveness of the people out there that believe experience is evident from in them, and believe they can the students’ enthusiasm and achieve whatever they set engagement with the program their minds to.” Photos: Josh Lloyd along with their feedback. One It is anticipated that this World at their feet: Wonthaggi Secondary College students hiking in Tasmania with university mentors, Wonthaggi student said: program will continue to teachers and Anglicare staff, including Cathrine Muston, who completed the two day, 36 km hike “Hike to higher education gain momentum within really taught me not to be the Wonthaggi region as Cathrine Muston, Anglicare Community Development Officer afraid of trying new things. I Anglicare Victoria, along with have always had an issue with our partners in the community, or the first time for mentors. The mentors took all -ment Officer, David Law. putting myself out there with work together to build Gippsland, Anglicare opportunities to have a positive “This is the first time we people I don’t know, and I the aspirations of young Victoria have taken influence on the students have offered the Hike to F discovered that I just needed regional Australians. students and staff from through conversation and team Higher Education program to Wonthaggi Secondary College activities highlighting that schools outside the Wimmera/ on their “Hike for Higher tertiary education is available Grampians region and we Education” program to Maria to everyone, no matter what are pleased to introduce the Island off the east coast of their background is. program into the Gippsland Tasmania. The program aims The Hike to Higher (Wonthaggi) area”, he said. to encourage secondary school Education program aims to Programs such as this students to discover their improve school attendance are successful because of passions in life and build their rates, reinforcing the benefits the partnership and support academic journey. of remaining in school and provided by a range of The Wonthaggi students, obtaining a VCE qualification. community groups and along with students from The program began in organisations. For this program, Ararat, their teachers and Ararat five years ago and Wonthaggi Secondary College, Synod at work Photo: Karena King Anglicare staff, spent four days was developed by Anglicare and the Wonthaggi/Inverloch alongside student mentors Victoria’s Community Develop Anglican Church along Synod evenly split on euthanasia from both the Churchill The debate at Synod on euthanasia and assisted dying and Ballarat campuses of was personal and passionate, with people coming to the Federation University. The microphone to tell personal stories. But discussions program took the students remained deeply respectful. When it came to a vote, the Rev’d Graham Toohill’s motion rejecting euthanasia on a journey that involved was narrowly lost. However, another motion was passed long hikes across sand and asking Bishop in Council to form a working group which up the forbidding slopes of would give the diocese more time to consider the issues. Bishops and Clerk twin peaks, (See Synod report, pages 6–7) alongside their university

150th anniversary for St John’s, Bairnsdale Page 3 From the Bishop TGA Photo: Les Ridge Index “Here I am Lord”

From the Bishop 2 The President’s Address Second Session of the 38th Synod of the Diocese of Gippsland Bishop Kay Goldsworthy, 20 May 2017

Parish to Parish 2 e acknowledge 50 days of Easter the common the Gunai Kurnai lectionary of readings that we

150th anniversary, 3 Wpeople as the original are given every Sunday to read, Bairnsdale custodians of this land; the mark, learn and inwardly digest land between the mountains includes stories from the book and the sea. We continue of the Acts of the Apostles

Tales from Canterbury 4 to commit ourselves to and the early Church’s growth the ongoing journey of into taking on the mantle of reconciliation and recognition. resurrection faith, as they witness On holy ground: 5 In our every step may these to the power and presence of Bishop Kay Goldsworthy at Synod Creative Spirit Festival words, “Here I am, Lord” land the risen Lord Jesus Christ the beginning of Paul’s new life threats and persecution. Ananias, softly and with respect on the land among them. turned completely to Christ. It like many today, is obedient to and the story of those who have It is not insignificant that we is dramatic. It is clear. It is a the voice he hears telling him to Synod Report 6 – 7 gone before. Christians were known first as blinding conversion story which go to the very person who has Welcome to the Second Session followers of “The Way”. In Acts 9 many of us haven’t experienced declared himself an enemy of the

Kids’ Min: 8 of the 38th Synod of the Diocese Saul, on the verge of conversion, is and some of us have longed for. people of the Way. His witness to Lakes Entrance of Gippsland. As often happens, described as breathing threats and There’s another follower of the those of us who deal with sneers Synod this year falls during murder against the disciples. As Way in Acts 9. Ananias, a disciple and disinterest is a mirror before living in Damascus who also the great Easter season of the a Pharisee, he makes an alliance us exposing us. Yes, there is fear James Oakley: 8 – 9 Church’s year. Caught up as with the Sadducee high priest in receives a vision from the Lord. threaded through these verses Sound familiar? we are in the busyness of our Jerusalem aimed at strengthening His response is immediate and from Acts, but there is also everyday lives, it is too easy to the cause of religious purity. one which has been replicated decision. Ananias says, “Here I leave the Easter cry, “Alleluia! Damascus was a kind of by others throughout the history am, Lord”. President’s 10 – 11 Christ is Risen” behind sometime checkpoint for pilgrims making of God’s people. He says simply, Like all those who have walked Synod Address around the second Sunday their way to worship in the Temple “Here I am, Lord”. the way before us, following in the

of Easter. in Jerusalem which made it a place The Lord is about to ask footsteps of Ananias, including something significant of Ananias Faith at Work: 12 The pattern which the Church of interest to Saul. A target for those who planted the church in in her wisdom has given us in the him seems to have been those he – something which he questions this place, we too say, “Here I am, Margaret Hancock scriptures, songs and liturgical knows as “followers of the Way”. at first, having heard of Saul’s Lord”. Not because it seemed like emphasis of Easter help slow Acts 9 goes on to tell the story reputation. There is a moment a good idea to me, not because it

Diocesan Calendar 12 this trend. We are pointed again of Paul’s conversion. He is blinded of fear that comes through the looked like a strategic decision, and again toward the witness by a light shining from heaven and text, fear with which many 21st but simply because You called of the resurrection community a voice speaking directly to him, century followers of the risen me, simply because You need and the gospel stories which tell “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Lord Jesus can identify. All witnesses and friends to seek Your of the experience of the risen me?” and which he answers, around the world our sisters and face and walk in Your way. The Gippsland Anglican Lord in the infant church. In the “Who are you Lord?” This is brothers in Christ face adversity, (continued on page 10) road/contemporary styles of Member of Australasian Religious Parish to Parish: praying for each other Press Association worship. Small congregations Member of Community Newspapers “...That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith...” (Romans1: 12) do their best to maintain many Association of Victoria of the traditional in-house This diocesan prayer diary Please pray that our community through school Registered by Australia Post ministries. New members features three parishes each visibility will encourage Brekky Club, Brick Club – Print Post Number 34352/00018 have joined liturgical teams. month. Diocesan organisations people to ask questions for autistic kids and families, Fundraising for the Cancer The Gippsland Anglican is the official will also be included. Each about the faith and learn of drop-in times, Men’s Dinners, newspaper of and is published by Council and domestic violence parish sends in its own profile God’s love; for our Messy Craft Groups, funeral catering, The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland, programs are attempts at and prayer needs. Church team as we learn and Bible Study groups, and wider 453 Raymond Street, connecting with the wider Sale, Victoria, 3850. develop this ministry; and for mission funding. MAFFRA community. Pray that the www.gippsanglican.org.au strength for ministry, Please pray for our all-age EASTERN REGION “Anglican presence” will willingness to serve and an Cafe Church (starting again in Editor: Jan Down be a blessing to our wider St John, Maffra ongoing strong, encouraging June), a planned Alpha in 3rd Tel: 0407 614 661 community; that Anglicans in St George, Boisdale community of faith. term, and our older members. Email: [email protected] the community would desire Contributions are due by 15th of Rector: The Rev’d Janet Wallis to re-join our worshiping the month prior to publication MIRBOO NORTH MOE / NEWBOROUGH A highlight of Maffra Parish congregations; and that the SOUTHERN REGION WESTERN REGION Layout by Devine Design is the strong connections old Trinity House building in Printed by Fairfax Media, St Mary, Mirboo North St Luke, Moe the town becomes an effective 30-32 Grandlee Drive, between parishioners and the St Aidan’s, Newborough space for Christian ministry! Wendouree, Victoria, 3355. genuine love they have for one Rector: The Rev’d Geoff Pittaway another. (with Yallourn North, Erica Prayer The editor reserves the right of We are seeking to Mirboo North is a small and Walhalla) final choice and format of material Rector: The Rev’d Sathi Anthony included in each issue. The Gippsland make connections into the country town of approximately Gracious God, we bring Anglican and the editor cannot community through mainly 1500-2000 people from which before you the needs of necessarily verify any material used music, Messy Church and St Mary’s draws a floating We would value prayers for our these parishes: Maffra, in this publication. Views contained participation in community population of around 70 journey towards amalgamation Mirboo North and Moe/ in submitted material are those of the two parishes. Moe and of contributors. activities, like the Mardi Gras “members”, though not all are Newborough. May they or the Christmas festival when present each week. We have Newborough being only seven discover new ways to serve Advertising Rates the Combined Churches hosted seen several new people join minutes apart, together, should You. Equip them to make Please contact the editor for all free children’s activities. us in recent weeks. It is a very have greater ministry potential. the gospel relevant as they advertising submissions, costing and enquiries, including about We serve members of the supportive community of faith, Between our congregations, care for all wherever You inserts in the newspaper. A full community by visiting at our and has a disproportionately we maintain both the Anglo- may lead. And in Your advertising schedule can be sent out local aged care facilities. larger effect on the surrounding Catholic and middle-of-the mercy, hear our prayer. upon request.

Page 2 The Gippsland Anglican June 2017 TGA

Bishop Kay preached 150th anniversary for St John’s, Bairnsdale at the two well-attended This was followed by a son; he started collecting and Sunday morning services, dinner for parishioners and collating information from from Matthew 7:24–29 invited guests who came from old papers, ledgers, archives in which Jesus taught about far and wide: ministers who and whatever was available. houses built on sand and have served the church in He burned the midnight oil on rock. She gave the example the past and present; widows many occasions and finished of her own house in Perth, of ministers and Gwynneth the history of the church in two built on sand 25 years ago and Dickens whose father, J H months. Tim thanked Linda still standing, while Christ Brown, was rector from Davies for her assistance with Church Cathedral in New 1936 – 1945. the book. Zealand was totally destroyed Peter and Margaret Down The donated anniversary in an earthquake. Nothing is had organised the dinner cake (one of three) was cut ever certain or stands firm with nametags and a 150th by Gwyneth Dickens, for past except God’s word. Bp Kay Anniversary pen at each place and present parishioners and commented that St John’s was setting. Tony welcomed 93 Carolyn Wylde, whose family a cornerstone in Bairnsdale and guests and the “Orchestra is with us now. built on rock. Royale” – consisting of four Rector Tony thanked Food did not run out medical people, who played Peter Down for his excellent over the weekend! Breakfast for us while the meal was organisation. He then was served after the early being served. They are actually announced that the fundraising service and a substantial a group of six but duty does target of $150,000, set by lunch after the family interfere with their availability Parish Council, had been service. A second cake to play! reached and thanked our was cut by Bud McCoy, Speakers were Joe Rottino, many generous benefactors. a long-standing member of Bairnsdale’s Mayor, followed The fund has been used our church, helped by Caeleb by Judy Renwick who for recarpeting the church, Simmons, aged eight, one of remembered when Paynesville painting the outside of the our younger members. separated from Bairnsdale church and rectory and many Memorabilia was displayed Bud McCoy and Caeleb Simmons, the oldest and youngest present at the in 2000 and became a parish other jobs. Tony thanked in the Emmanuel Centre celebratory luncheon in its own right. Bishop Kay, everyone for coming and being throughout a wonderful who was accompanied by her present at the anniversary of weekend of celebrations, Ursula Plunkett husband Jeri, spoke briefly St John’s. memories and thanksgiving. and finished with a prayer. A very good three course meal Photo: Jan Down was then served. n Saturday 30th April Before dessert Tim Gibson St John’s community launched The Church in the Oof faith commenced Triangle. A History of St John the celebration of the 150th the Baptist Anglican Church, anniversary of becoming a Bairnsdale 1867-2017. parish in 1867. Tim gave an amusing The weekend began with and informative talk and a service of Evensong led by mentioned that he was Bishop Kay and the Rev’d given this task by his father, Tony Wicking. Rector Tony Archdeacon Ted, at very and a small choir chanted the short notice. Tim was under psalm and responses with a the old tunes. The hymns the impression that Ted was congregation of over 100, filled the church with a doing it! Tim is obviously an doing well at remembering satisfying sound. obedient and good natured Interior of St John’s, Bairnsdale

Philip Muston attends Rwanda consecration Archdeacon Philip Muston, Archdeacon of the Western Region and Rector of the Warragul Anglican church, represented the Gippsland Anglican Diocese at the episcopal Consecration of the Rev’d Manasseh Gahima in Rwanda on 28 May. Manasseh, who is well- known to the Gippsland Anglican Diocese, has been appointed as Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Gahini. The dioceses of Gippsland and Gahini have had a cooperative partnership since 2002. Philip carried with him gifts from link parishes in Gippsland. He also presented Manasseh Photos: Linda Davies with a gift from the Gippsland Gwyneth Dickins (daughter of the Rev’d JH Brown, previous rector); Rae Weston (wife of previous rector the Rev’d Arnold Weston); Shirley Pidgeon Diocese: a silver pectoral cross, made in Sale. Philip (widow of the Rev’d Dick Pidgeon – associate clergy); Bp Jeff Driver (Bishop of Goppsland 2001-2005); Archdeacon Edie Ashley (priest at Paynesville); travelled with his father-in-law, the Rev’d John Davies (past curate); Marion White (widow of previous rector the Rev’d John White dec.); the Rev’d Graeme Winterton, previous rector; spending one week in Rwanda the Rev’d Tony Wicking, current rector; Canon Gordon Cooper (associate priest); Annabel Gibson; Archdeacon Ted Gibson (previous rector). just after the Gippsland Synod. Seated: Bp Kay Goldsworthy, Pam Davies, Carole Winterton and Rosemary Cooper

June 2017 The Gippsland Anglican Page 3 Around the diocese TGA Synod 1995: privatisation not debated Bruce Charles reflects on a missed opportunity

As we gathered at Immigration Park, Morwell, in March for the ecumenical prayer service for workers in the Latrobe Valley (see TGA May report, p1) I could not help but think of a pivotal moment in the life of the diocese in 1995. The Synod was invited to debate the privatisation of the then State Electricity So probably the greatest social and Commission through a motion that economic upheaval in the life of the asked for an independent inquiry into diocese unfolded without even a the proposed sale. whimper from our church. I had prepared a pamphlet that Now our social dialogue centres Photo: June Treadwell reflected on the various arguments around problems such as the rich for and against privatisation as well getting richer, the poor getting poorer; Gate into the Canterbury Cathedral precinct as inviting us to address the bigger the increasing price of essential services social issues of competition policy such as electricity and gas; the common and privatisation, which had been interests of the society being subjected Tales from Canterbury adopted by government without real to the interests of shareholders, 7-8 July at The Abbey community discussion. The paper also who are generally the richer people suggested that cooperation rather than (in the case of Government owned competition was a better Christian utilities, everyone is a shareholder); the June Treadwell As well we will look at TS Eliot’s views on this in Murder in the model of economic life. casualisation of the workforce and the Cathedral: here some play reading The tragedy was and is that the slowest wages growth for many years ome with us to Canterbury may occur. Synod never debated the motion. that amongst other things, makes and, like Chaucer’s pilgrims, Then the talented Geoffrey Chaucer With the swiftness of what smelt of housing less and less affordable, sup at the Tabard Inn with (1343–1400) will claim our attention. political intrigue and I suspect the especially for many young buyers. C support of many in the diocese who Rather than saying ”I told you so“ and assorted sweetmeats and mulled A diplomat in service of the King, wine. Discover the history of he travelled extensively through saw the State Electricity Commission trying to score political points, a very Canterbury and its Cathedral from Europe but found time to write as slow and easy (mainly due to having basic conclusion can be drawn that will Saint Augustine’s arrival in 597 poetry. We will have fun looking at a workforce big enough to handle help us learn from this situation, which AD to the partial destruction of his unfinished Canterbury Tales. outages for maintenance), the motion I’m sure God is unhappy with, that we the cathedral by fire in the 1174; Some time will also be spent was not debated or put to Synod should respect one another enough, the rebuilding of the choir and studying the stained glass, sculpture through a rarely used parliamentary even in Synod, to at least discuss each the cathedral’s mixture of and music of the time as well as other motion called the ‘Previous Question’. other’s concerns, even if they are not architectural styles. artworks in the Cathedral. This motion stops all discussion, and very important to us, personally. As for We will explore the conflict Presenters June Treadwell and Sue if successful, leaves the motion it is the bigger consequence of our failure between King Henry II and Thomas Fordham extend a warm welcome applied to with no response from the at that time, that is a discussion for Becket leading up to Becket’s to all. Synod (assembly). another day. assassination; its effect on English For further information and Consequently, not a word was The Rev’d Bruce Charles has been history and the controversy booking contact the Abbey: phone uttered in discussion and debate the rector of Newborough / Yallourn, which persists to the present day. 5156 6580 email : [email protected] and no motion was recorded on it. Wonthaggi / Inverloch and Moe parishes. Vale Pam Schmack 10.10.1947 – 12.3.2017 am Schmack was a member of strong faith and courage, she fought St Paul’s Cathedral Chapter, cancer right up until her death on 12 P Sale, for many years. She March this year. She died peacefully then became a Lay Canon and Synod surrounded by her beloved family. representative. On Easter Day (26 Her warmth and glowing spirit will March) 2016 she was awarded be greatly missed. the title of Lay Canon Emeritus Pam is survived by her in recognition of her significant loving husband, Karl-Heinz, service as a Lay Canon in the life of and by her children, Robert and the Cathedral Parish. Judy, and stepchildren, Karen, Pam was usually to be found David, Christine and Joanne and at the door welcoming people, or their families. Lay canons Arthur MacPherson, Pam Schmack and Christine Morris – taken after the in the kitchen preparing, cooking A funeral service was held at the installation of Bp Kay Goldsworthy in March 2015 and serving food. With incredibly cathedral on Friday 17 March.

Page 4 The Gippsland Anglican June 2017 Around the diocese Harvest Festival celebration

Glenda Amos An abundance of goodness is a Yarram grace and also a challenge, for if we have plenty then we have a responsibility to protect and Harvest Festival on March 19, care so that we may share that at Holy Trinity Yarram, was abundance. There is always a joyous celebration and a something for which to be thanksgiving for abundance thankful, and in doing that, in our gardens and our lives. we were reminded to think of Holy Trinity was decorated with others as well as ourselves. garden produce and equipment During the service, members thanks to Kristy and helpers. of the congregation presented We were also blessed with a samples of our produce at the pastoral visit from the Bishop of altar for blessing. Gippsland, the Right Rev’d Kay An enthusiastic congregation The Very Rev’d Susanna Pain, Camille Monet and Margaret Hancock at the art show Goldsworthy, who came for then shared the donations of deepen our understandings the weekend. garden produce with all those Friends of St John’s, Port present. What a selection – of faith in our daily lives. On holy ground Albert, provided a musical apples, grapes, herbs, eggs, In responding to our theme soirée on Saturday evening tomatoes, potatoes and of there were conversations CREATIVE SPIRIT FESTIVAL with chicken and sparkling course zucchini were some of arising throughout the refreshments followed by the produce on offer! A bring- Fay Magee weekend. Susanna reminded the performance of a string and-share lunch then followed Bass / Phillip Island life force and movement. us of the ancient sense ensemble. The audience filled in the hall with delicious The Encouragement Award that wherever we are, we the church. food provided by everyone, wonderful range went to first-time exhibitor, are on “holy ground”. In On Sunday, at the 10:30am including a Simnel cake for of activities was Marina Allan, and the the Sunday sermon, she service in Yarram, Bishop Kay Mothering Sunday. available during the Peoples’ Choice to Charles helped us consider the preached about producing We truly did have much A Watson with his painting of realities of “abundant life” a harvest not only in our for which to be thankful on Creative Spirit Festival held in the Bass-Phillip Island Kitty Miller Bay. and as we explored it in gardens, but also in our lives. this weekend. Parish 5-7 May. The theme The Saturday program our coming together as “sharing place – sharing commenced with Dean three congregations in our ways” was evident from the Susanna leading us in walking Combined service. opening of the Art Show the labyrinth at San Remo, in A display of liturgical on Friday evening by the near perfect weather! This banners from Forest Hill Very Rev’d Susanna Pain was followed by a communal Uniting Church added to to the final Vocal Nosh on make-your-own pizza lunch the life and colour of our Sunday evening. hosted by Lyn Francis. The service. Two songs from a The Festival is organised rain on Saturday afternoon new collection by Rhonda by representatives of St did not deter our creative Selleck-Holt were included. John’s Uniting Church, with weavers, led by Bev Watson After a shared lunch a St Philip’s and as well this and Terry Norquay. Frames small group ventured out on year, Hope Church. The were made from rough wood an informative walk around Art Show in the Parish Hall and inspired effort went the Shearwater Estate provided a wide variety of into using the large quantity wetlands where the highlight work, from oil and acrylic of found beach material to was Bob Baird sharing pieces to digital photography create four panels of “Gifts his extensive knowledge The Rev’d Jo White and Bishop Kay Goldsworthy and sculptured wood. Camille from the Shore”. and the experience of with some of the harvest at Yarram Monet was our judge and The aim of the Festival is establishing the site. the winning piece “Rushing to explore spirituality and the This was such a concrete Water”, by Janet Taylor, arts, to see the overlapping experience of so many captured a strong sense of insights providing ways that themes of our weekend.

SALE STARTS MESSY CHURCH St Paul’s Cathedral Sale has a sit-down meal together. begun a new venture: Messy It is an opportunity Church is now being held on to attend a Christian the third Sunday of the month, church and find out more from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm about God in a gentle, in the hall at the Cathedral, welcoming and creative 149 Cunninghame Street. environment. We ask adults to attend with Messy Church is an Everyone can come! Bring their children under 12 years informal church for families the kids, or the grandchildren, of age. and people of all ages who or your neighbour and come The next Messy Church may not find other forms along for some fun or simply will be on Sunday 18 June. If of church appealing. It will enjoy meeting others for a you’d like to know more, ring include hands-on creative chat! We’ll look forward to Susanna on 0418 637 469 or experiences, a celebration and welcoming you in the hall. Marg on 0411 748 656.

June 2017 The Gippsland Anglican Page 5 Second Session, 38th Synod 19–21 May TGA

School at Wy Yung, just out of Synod Report 2017 Bairnsdale. Lunch was served at the Clifton Waters Retirement Village nearby. The day was so warm and sunny, some tables were set up outside. There was the opportunity for interested people to tour the facilities, which include a Men’s Shed. The three course Synod dinner was back at St John’s in Bairnsdale, with the parish also serving breakfast on the The Rev’d Graham Toohill, Leongatha Sunday morning, so Synod members were provided for very well.

Professional Standards and other acts Synod spent considerable time over important legislation. Acts passed included the Professional Standards Act 2017 (including 29 amendments); the Episcopal Standards Canon 2007 (Adoption) Act 2017; The Abbey Act 2017; and the Parish Administration (Amendment) Act 2017. The Rev’d Geoff Pittaway, Mirboo North The Professional Standards Act was not the Provincial legislation adopted by the Dioceses of Melbourne and Bendigo, but was based on General Synod model legislation. The sense Photo: Karena King in the Gippsland diocese was that Bishop Philip Huggins, guest preacher what we have now works well, with Jan Down at the Synod Eucharist the work of the Diocesan Director of Professional Standards, Ms Cheryl So St John’s, with its beautiful new Russell deeply appreciated. paintwork and carpets, made a fitting fortnight before Synod met, and impressive setting for the Synod Ministry to the dying Photos: Les Ridge the Bairnsdale church had Eucharist on Friday 19 May, while the A .just celebrated its 150th people of the parish provided a warm The Rev’d Graham Toohill, Assistant Rowena Armstrong, Chancellor anniversary of becoming a parish. welcome on a rainy night. Deacon at Leongatha, moved a motion Bishop Kay Goldsworthy welcomed rejecting “euthanasia and physician Bishop Philip Huggins, Bishop of assisted suicide as contrary to the will Oodthenong area of episcopal care in of God”; and encouraging the the diocese of Melbourne, as preacher promotion and provision of good at the service. Bishop Philip preached palliative care. This proved a on John 15:12–17, focussing on Jesus’ controversial topic but the debate command, “Love one another a I have remained respectful and considerate. loved you”. He suggested one aid to A show of hands was required and the learning to love one another was the motion was very narrowly lost. “three step waltz of life”: 1. Pause. The Rev’d Greg Magee put forward 2. Be attentive – to God and ourselves. a successful motion to “request Bishop- 3. Then act. in-Council to convene a working group On Saturday morning, Synod got to investigate the theological and down to business at the Bairnsdale pastoral implications of ministry to the Campus of the Gippsland Grammar dying, including ‘assisted dying’”.

Photo: Karena King

Lunch was prepared and served by residents at Clifton Waters Retirement Village

Page 6 The Gippsland Anglican June 2017 TGA Second Session, 38th Synod 19–21 May

The Rev’d Geoff Pittaway, Rector of Mirboo North, spoke in favour of the motion and also to encourage his neighbouring parishes of Morwell, Churchill/ Boolarra/Yinnar and Traralgon, NAIDOC Week Service 2 July which are more affected by The Rev’d Phyllis Andy invites you to the diocesan NAIDOC the closure of Hazelwood, to keep in touch with his service on 2 July at 2:30 pm, Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust. parish. He said that the Events will be held around Gippsland 2 – 9 July to The Rev’d David Head, Morwell burden of ministry to the Heather Scott, Leongatha celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal Latrobe Valley as it comes arising from Jesus Christ Here and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Closure of Hazelwood to grips with the closure and Now for Gippsland 2013– Power Station of Hazelwood is too much 2017, expressing gratitude for one or even two The Rev’d David Head, to the Rev’d Trevor Smith parishes to bear, and needed Rector at Morwell, proposed for leading consultations wider parish, diocesan and a motion acknowledging the around the diocese in late even ecumenical response. pain and suffering, loss of 2016 and encouraging jobs, and wider effects on the diocese to participate the community caused by New directions fully in the next part the process. the closure of the Hazelwood On Saturday afternoon as well A motion was also passed Power Station. The motion as hearing reports from diocesan in support of the Hope Restart also included the probable organisations and schools, Centre, a drug rehabilitation closure of the Carter Holt some time was allowed for centre to be built in Bairnsdale, Harvey Mill and the Heyfield group discussions on strategic an initiative of Peter and Mill, with similar deep pain directions for the diocese. A Margaret Down. and trauma. The motion was motion was also passed giving The Rev’d Greg Magee easily passed. thanks for the opportunities and the Rev’d Tony Wicking were thanked for their ministry in the diocese and wished a happy, restful and blessed retirement. Both Greg and Tony commented that working in Gippsland Diocese was a pleasure as working together across differences is a feature. Margaret Hancock, lay representative from Bass/Phillip Island, put forward the motion that Synod in 2020 be held at a suitable live-in Photo: Linda Davies conference centre. Riverine Street, Bairnsdale, looking towards St John’s rectory with cross While there were inquiries and memorial garden in foreground. made about cost and location, there was strong support for the idea and the motion was passed.

June 2017 The Gippsland Anglican Page 7 Kids’ Min TGA

to attend. Children learn to listen to and follow mainly music magic instructions, get to know the routine and Wendy Nickson do activities with their mum/carer. Lakes Entrance While these busy families have not gone on to coming to church e are in our fourth formally, there has been Wyear of running the ready acceptance of the mainly music program at St couple of “God songs” Nicholas, Lakes Entrance. With in each session, and the a number of options for parents message is gently passed of pre-schoolers in our town, on. As well, families feel it was a slow start, but now a comfortable, warmly strong core of 22 children are welcome and safe in associated with our sessions. the building itself, and Initially, mainly music was get to know the Rector, held in an area at the rear of the the Rev’d Barb Logan, church. In time, we replaced the The sessions are currently We find we need at least into a vibrant friendship group one family choosing St solid glass dividing wall into led by Wendy Brady, three helpers including a – they often discuss their Nicholas for a funeral service the church with a series of glass experienced in running an person to prepare the food children’s development and as a result of this. folding doors, and replaced mm group in Tasmania, with (fruit and sandwiches) which any problems and are reassured However we do see it as the old carpet, giving a clean, Kath Grandy as our very able the children have after the by each other, which we see mainly giving outreach and large and very usable space Facilitator taking care of the session. Then the toys come as invaluable. We have had service to these little ones and which included the Narthex. organisation, and with regular out and parents have a chance positive feedback, with one their parents and, as one of Attendances are impossible to Jeanette Marchant, and myself to chat. mum saying that mm had turned those involved in running it, I predict but mostly in the 7 – 15 on projector, to make up the It has been satisfying to see her life around, and others can say that for all of us it is a children range. core team. these young mothers growing travelling quite a distance highlight of our week!

with one another, and to happen. My own children will show trust again. However, sometimes raise a “plea in Sound familiar? forgiveness is not the same bar of prosecution” – “we’ve James Oakley as reconciliation – although already dealt with that, and it might be a step on the my brother forgave me!” “You need to apologise to your sister.” road to reconciliation. The But nevertheless I might still child hurt during a game will need to follow through with “I’ve already said I was sorry.” not readily go back to consequences. We must be “Well, your sister didn’t hear you. trusting her playmates in that careful to acknowledge that Go and tell her again.” What forgiveness is not same game. it is possible for someone Forgiveness does not to forgive the person who Forgiveness is not minimising. “Fine. I’M SORRY, OKAY? negate justice. It is a common wronged them, but still take “It’s nothing.” “It doesn’t WHY WON’T YOU FORGIVE ME?!” misconception that if one the matter to the police or matter.” “Don’t worry person forgives another, then other proper authority. Sound familiar? We probably squabbles they have, they about it.” there is nothing further to (continued on next page) deal with some variation of need the skills to express Sometimes in our rush to this conversation multiple their hurt, and to seek get past the awkwardness times each week, as our and grant forgiveness and of wrongdoing we want to primary school-aged children reconciliation. pretend that nothing wrong negotiate the rough-and- I was struck by how has happened. But if this is tumble of life together. crucial these skills are, when true, then there is nothing to As parents, Sally and I are I was at a Safe Churches forgive. For forgiveness to be trying to help our children to conference. A panel was real, we need to be able to work through the difficulties reflecting on forgiveness and acknowledge that a wrong of life in a fallen family, where reconciliation after abuse has been done. we do hurt one another, or violence. One speaker Forgiveness is not and then need to work commented that the way forgetting. “Forgive and to repair and restore our we treat forgiveness – the forget…” is well known folk relationships. We are trying way we teach about it and wisdom, but it oversimplifies to build into our children a talk about it – can have a whole lot of complex family culture of accepting really significant implications emotion. Some hurts responsibility for our for recovery post-abuse. simply cannot be forgotten wrongful actions, repenting, Handled badly, pressure (especially while they still seeking forgiveness, on a victim to forgive or to hurt us!), and to require of and working towards minimise the seriousness of an injured person that they reconciliation. what’s happened can result forget what has happened is I’ve noticed in myself in further trauma. to force them into impossible a tendency sometimes to So I wanted to reflect psychological contortions. rush this process – I wish on forgiveness and Forgiveness (by itself) is my kids would just get reconciliation – what they not reconciliation. Especially along peacefully right now! are and aren’t, and how within families, there is But the truth is that, even I speak with my children immense pressure to restore with the relatively minor about them. relationship, to reconcile

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(continued from page 8) It is the idea reflected in • We try to help our children • We try to help our children Sound familiar? Romans 12:17-19 – “Do not to articulate clearly and to imagine what a restored often the wrong done is repay anyone evil for evil … fairly if they’ve been hurt relationship might look What forgiveness is like, and specifically to so destructive that the Do not take revenge, my by their sibling – not be aware that, even So what is forgiveness? The possibility of restored friends, but leave room for over-exaggerating their hurt, where there has been Bible talks about forgiveness relationship is practically God’s wrath…” This concept recognising the difference forgiveness, there might in two main ways. zero. Or alternatively, the of forgiveness is an exercise between deliberate and still be some time needed The first is as part of a wrongdoer is unrepentant, in trust in God’s goodness accidental hurts, and before the relationship pathway to reconciliation. and will not take steps to and justice. recognising their own role gets back onto an even keel. We get an inkling of this in restore relationship (as in in a fight. Matthew 18:15, where Jesus Talking with children Matthew 18:16-17). • We try to help our children There are times too, when is telling his followers about I’m keen for my kids to But the call is there. In this to understand the hurt our conversation is to guide restoration of relationship learn about and distinguish case, forgiveness is reflected they’ve caused – not to our kids to release their anger after one has sinned against between these two ideas in the idea of release rush to self-justification, and desire for revenge. We another. The process is of forgiveness because I of the consequences of but to feel empathy for try to encourage our children that rebuke can lead to want them well equipped wrongdoing. Specifically, this their sibling. We also try to forgive their unrepentant repentance, which can lead as they grow. I hope and forgiveness is a willingness to help them to articulate sibling, and to rely on us to to forgiveness, which can pray that they will be able to give up the right to exact repentance – saying sorry bring fairness and justice into lead to reconciliation. to work toward restored retribution for wrongdoing. specifically for the wrong the family. This is the idea of relationships in they’ve done, and thinking There’s no quick solution to forgiveness that I often think most areas of through what restoration the process of training people of in my family, when I’m their life. While might look like. in forgiveness – I’m convinced trying to help my children to I hope that it’s a lifelong learning process. get over a fight they’ve had, they are spared • We try to help our children I pray that all our children and to recover something the trauma to express forgiveness – get a head start, and grow of their healthy sibling of serious recognising that this might in godliness in this area. relationship. I want to see wrongdoing, I take some time as pain them clear the air and come also want them passes and the memory James Oakley is a Children back to a point where they to be prepared of hurt passes. We try to and Youth Ministry Worker can live in love toward each to respond in get them to use in the Tasmanian Anglican other again. a godly way if language that doesn’t diocese. This article is one The second idea of that happens. minimise the wrongdoing: of his “Parents as forgiveness stands independ- So our “I forgive you”, rather Pastors” columns, and ently of reconciliation. It conversations than “It doesn’t matter”; was first published in is a more demanding call often run along “we’re OK”, rather than The Tasmanian Anglican, for forgiveness, because these lines: “it’s OK”. October 2015.

June 2017 The Gippsland Anglican Page 9 Synod 2017 – The President’s Address TGA

over the years. The changes that take “Here I am Lord” place over generations in industries like timber have meant that communities Bishop Kay Goldsworthy that once thrived now have much 20 May 2017 smaller populations and fewer job (continued from page 2) prospects. Almost every parish in the diocese has felt the impact of changes in Today is the 115th anniversary of dairy farming, closures and downsizing the consecration of Arthur Wellesley in coal mining and the timber industry. Pain in St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne. In such times, it has been absolutely This year therefore marks the 115th clear that parishes are deeply connected anniversary of the Diocese of in their communities with grace and Gippsland. In the foundation of this practical care. Community connection diocese and the ministry of its first is part of Anglican DNA. Bishop we are each in some way part of This year marks the 150th anniversary the faithful response of those forebears of the parish of St John the Baptist, who believed in God’s providence and Bairnsdale. The history of the diocese grace for the mission of the Church written in 1947 by Albert E Clark Photos: Les Ridge in Eastern Victoria as they willingly Church of our Fathers (pp166-167) says responded to God: “Here I am, Lord”. of Bairnsdale; “The earliest record I can The Rev’d Geoff Pittaway, the Rev’d Greg Magee, Bp Kay Goldsworthy and the Registrar, I think of this response each time I find comes from the Church Gazette of Brian Norris, share a laugh as Greg is farewelled go to St John the Evangelist in Cann March 1862, in which is a record of River. Dedicated in 1928, St John’s was the Bishop’s tour in these words: ‘The bit off the beaten track. But this church Since then smaller groups have been a gift to the diocese from Miss Reece, 18th and 19th were spent in reaching is part of the narrative of the church working to bring together an outline for one of the medical sisters appointed and visiting Bairnsdale, at which place in Gippsland and of people of faith our shared mission over the next three by Bishop Cranswick to minister his Lordship held an evening service, who desired to mark the life they were years. What has come through loudly throughout Gippsland. St John’s is little when some 50 persons were collected making in this part of the world with and clearly from these consultations used now apart from visitors on their together…’ This does not mean that a building in which they could gather and conversations is that for Gippsland way to Mallacoota or NSW here you have a record of to sing praise, to pray, to celebrate the Anglicans in almost every parish sacraments of Holy Communion, of the focus of ministry over these past who drop in to visit the small [Most parishes the first service ever held in timber church. I wonder how Bairnsdale ... but one would marriage, of baptism and from which few years has been making many of them notice the photo have] felt the be safe in saying that it was their loved ones might be buried. community connections. in the porch, taken sometime impact of changes conducted by the Rev. E. G. Without doubt those who built Christ Many programs run inside churches in the mid 1920s, of a woman in dairy farming, Pryce, the first clergyman to Church as well as that first committee in have been planned to invite people who looks as though she is in closures and visit Gippsland.” Bairnsdale meeting in 1867 were also from the community into church, a white uniform sitting astride In February 1867, a church saying, “Here I am, Lord”. or provided to meet a community downsizing in coal a horse. It is Miss Reece, committee was formed need. In her report to the Annual mining and the Jesus Christ here and now Meeting of the Co-operating Parish one of those remarkable with representatives from women who heard God’s call timber industry. Bairnsdale, Omeo, Lindenow for Gippsland 2017–2020 of Churchill, Boolarra and Yinnar, to them and responded, “Here Flats and Bruthen. In March These pioneers knew themselves the Rev’d Brenda Burney wrote about I am, Lord”. of that year the Committee wrote to the as part of the bigger story of one of these consultations: “Most Sometimes when I am there we are Bishop of Melbourne with the promise God’s loving creation and salvation. parishes had worked hard at engaging three for the service. A little while ago of £200 and a house for the Reverend We human beings need a bigger story. with people in their communities but I arrived looking forward to seeing the Amos Brazier who is listed as being And to locate ourselves in that story thought that we needed to go deeper regulars and lo and behold they had been the clergyman of the parish from 1867- is an unfolding of the psalmist’s into those relationships and provide telling people in town that there would 1873. song of praise, “The fear of the more opportunities for people to be a service that Sunday. We were eight, 150 years later people here continue Lord is the beginning of wisdom” respond in faith to Jesus Christ”. one of whom was a musician. Oh, and to respond to human need and God’s (Psalm 111:10). Since October smaller groups have a gecko who is usually pleased to be at call. The dream of a residential The loss of a shared story is one been working to draw that information worship there! rehabilitation centre in East Gippsland reason why people are so isolated together and bring to Synod a direction People in that part of the diocese talk – the Hope Restart Centre – has come and uncertain about who they are for mission over the next three years. about how the community has changed to life through Peter and Margaret and how they belong. Rabbi Lord This doesn’t mean that the good things Down. Having heard from one young Jonathon Sacks said recently, “We that people are doing should stop. Nor woman of the devastation of her life live in a world where people have a does it mean that everything outlined particularly through the drug ice, and maximum of choice and a minimum will be taken on by every parish. But the transformation she has made in the of meaning”. Think about it in relation it does point to some next steps for grace and loving faith of Christ, they to the issues in front of the church prayer, planning and programs. have begun a process which we hope today, or in relation to the increasing So, we’re great at community will come to fruition for the well-being number of people whose family story connection. But, we asked ourselves, of young people, of families and of the is hanging by a thread. Shared story how are those connections being whole community. “Here I am, Lord.” gives meaning, shared meaning. developed to help us get better at telling 2016 marked the 160th anniversary Part of the shared story of the the story, of creating spaces in which of the consecration of Christ Church Diocese of Gippsland since 2013 is people can hear the story of God’s love Tarraville. A wonderful day of the Strategic Direction, or the Mission and find themselves within it? How is community celebrations organised by Plan: Jesus Christ Here and Now for our reaching out helping people step the parish of Yarram in conjunction Gippsland. Work began on this in across the threshold of the church, with the local community and historical 2011 before it came to Synod in 2012 across the threshold of faith into the society saw people from around for further discussion. It was then transforming love of Christ? How Victoria return to the site of the oldest rounded out and has been widely used do we help people come to their own wooden church building in the State to across the diocese since 2013. response to God in Christ to hear God’s celebrate. Last year I signalled that it had love calling to them and to say, “Here Congratulations to the Reverend Jo almost reached its 2017 timeline and I am, Lord”? White, the churchwardens and members that we would take time to consider The Mission Plan has three headings of the parish for the day. Churches like how it has been used, by whom, and to play with. It has dot points just waiting Christ Church are a mixed blessing. how parishes have found it as a tool to be expanded in your local context. It Services are no longer held there on for planning mission. In October 2016, is permission-giving rather prescriptive. a regular basis, there is no township the Rev’d Trevor Smith facilitated It’s a page that I believe we can all get anymore to speak of, and the church is a consultations in each of the regions. on together and then learn together.

Page 10 The Gippsland Anglican June 2017 TGA Synod 2017 – The President’s Address

Our vision is “Growing in Christ into I expect that we will see amendments gospels who cared for and stood for rather an easy time in the life of the the fullness of human life and inviting and advances in this area over the next the vulnerable, rather than those who Church in which to exercise a ministry others to go with us on the journey”. few years. occupy places of influence and power? of leadership and oversight; however The headings are: Much of this has been done in the How is the living Lord Christ to live we’re not living back in some imagined 1. Faithfully growing in Christ context of the Royal Commission among us and in us without our sin and golden era of another age. And the Holy as we… into Institutional Responses to Child frailty crucifying him all over again? Spirit is ripping through our lives with Sexual Abuse. Some of the most And how do we give expression to the force of a cyclone for repentance 2. Generously inviting others damning public hearings have involved Christ’s love and mercy and justice and and renewal. That’s our season. as we… the Anglican Church and we are all at the same time reject the temptation to Am I angry at those who have 3. Celebrating this journey diminished by this terrible chapter in the become part of a mob seeking targets perpetrated these crimes? Yes. Am I together as we… life of the Church. The awful truth we to blame. perplexed at the failure of response must confess is our ability to glibly say, There are no easy answers or quick by the church that nurtured my faith As I said last year, our missionary call “Here I am, Lord” without ever bringing fixes. Nor should there be. The stories so well? Yes. Am I aware of some of means learning afresh how and where to forth new life. On the contrary we have told to the Commission by survivors has the insidious ways in which I have enter the culture we are trying to reach been “outed” as an institution capable made this crystal clear. The next period been groomed to diminish harm? Yes. in the love of Jesus. However you take of bringing destruction and unthinkable for us in Gippsland means continuing Am I challenged in walking a fine line up these directions and shape them into damage to human lives. to develop and adopt safe ministry between trust and suspicion? Yes. We your own plan my prayer and hope is In April, the Commission published screening requirements. It means all are. But, this is the season in which that they will form part of your own the analysis of complaints of child requiring leaders and all who work we are being called to give an account response to God: “Here I am, Lord”. sexual abuse received by the Anglican with children to attend Safe Church and of the faith within us. Who we are. The Diocese of Gahini Church dioceses in Australia. This other training days regularly. It means Why we believe. What the good news information was collected from a survey learning and knowing what the seven of Jesus is that we know and want to Next Sunday (28 May) Archdeacon of all 23 dioceses. 22 of the 23 dioceses child safe standards are that the Victorian tell and live. The Bible shows us God’s Manasseh Gahima from our partner reported receiving one or “How is our government has introduced, and love in the human face of Jesus, and that Diocese of Gahini in Rwanda will be more complaints of child putting them into practice (see love highlights the need for the most reaching out ordained a bishop. Archdeacon Philip sexual abuse between 1980 www.childsafestandards.org. vulnerable to be cared for, protected, Muston will represent the Diocese of and 2015. There were 1,085 helping people au/the-7-standards/). It means raised up. They have a special place in Gippsland and we send with him the complainants and 1,119 step across the educating and being vigilant. the heart of God’s story of grace and assurance of our prayers for Manasseh reported complaints in this threshold of the Getting the balance right will take loving welcome. and his wife Rose and their family as time. 75% of complainants time. As we navigate our way In all this we are not alone. We are church...?” well as Bishop Alexis and the whole were male and 25% female. through all this we do need to in the company of each other and that Diocese of Gahini. Phil will take with The average time that had elapsed tread carefully, fixing our attention not unsettling, gusty and renewing Holy him the gift of a Pectoral Cross from his between the alleged abuse taking so much on the loudest voices, but on Spirit who blows us as we are willing friends here in Gippsland including the place and the date of the complaint the still small voice of our crucified and to change and renew. If we are listening Diocese, Gippsland Grammar school was 29 years. These revelations have living saviour who calls us to still higher prayerfully, quietly for the still voice and St Paul’s Grammar. A new day for rightly shocked us and shaken the standards. beyond and in the middle of all of these Manasseh’s response to God. “Here I am, trust of Anglicans as well as the wider Listening for and to the “still small things, what does it mean for us then to Lord.” We will also send our greeting community in the leadership of the voice” seems a monumental task in say, “Here I am, Lord?” to Bishop Alexis in his continued church. The Royal Commission has the face of all this. The curtain that has leadership and ministry in the church. brought this shame into the full light been drawn back has revealed that the Synod legislation enables mission of community scrutiny and focused on church has been as good at if not better A wise member of a Diocesan legal A season for repentance places in which people who have used than others in ignoring and denying that committee once told me that the and renewal their power to abuse all trust. such terrible things have happened. The legislation Synods consider is meant Harder to recognise, perhaps, is the This is of course precisely what culture of self-interest and protection of to be enabling of our life, so that the truth that good order in the church is yet Royal Commissions are charged to do; the institution has been revealed and it mission of the Church can be lived another way of saying “Here I am, Lord” to expose what has been hushed up, doesn’t look like Jesus. We have heard more effectively. That is part of the with faith and integrity, and putting this letting in the painful, healing light of these or similar words many times over reason that Synods are essential to reality into practice in effective and day. Now that the Commission’s work since the Commission began its work. our life. More than that Synod is a caring ways. has finished and we await its report to be “It didn’t happen”. “I didn’t know”. “I constitutional obligation for Anglicans. The Professional Standards released later this year, the Church will wasn’t told.” And perhaps even worse, We don’t live in isolated congregational Legislation in this Synod is not the be judged once more. This time by the “Well, it might have happened but it settings but in a wider community of Provincial legislation adopted by the credibility of our response. Not being wasn’t all bad. Perhaps they even liked bishops clergy and lay people together, Dioceses of Melbourne and Bendigo, as seen to do the “right” thing, not as a it. It’s what happened to all the boys”. taking counsel, deliberating, debating, we anticipated last year. The legislation public relations exercise, but in terms of These are attitudes we have met at prayerfully considering how to ensure before us is, however, based on General truth. Some of the questions that travel other times too. Most often they lurk in our frameworks are safe enough for the Synod model legislation. Twelve with us into the future are about how life’s dark corners of domestic violence, space we need to live more and more dioceses around the country have we are to live more humbly and openly of rape, of violence used against people into the people Christ is shaping us into. passed legislation based on this model and truthfully. because of colour or race or sexual The parish notes for the Sundays and after consideration we have felt this How do we care for individuals identity. Attitudes like those implying of Easter in one parish read, “To be a the best path for Gippsland now. No without simply falling into the trap of that women need their husbands or risen church doesn’t mean to be perfect. doubt General Synod in September will protecting the institution? How can partners to show them “who’s boss”, It means to be a church sharing the invite us to further consideration and we look more like the Jesus of the or that women who wear certain kinds resurrection of the Lord convinced that of clothes were “just this is the way to be fully human and begging for it”, or that fully alive. The church then, isn’t just all Aboriginal people a struggling human institution. Its true will end up in trouble identity is as part of the reality of the because “they don’t risen Christ. Its value depends on our know any better”, or that living in Christ and in his resurrection because homosexuality is and just letting ourselves float in that a “disgrace” they need it enormous and mysterious reality.” “knocked out of them”. May our resounding response Somehow, we have to the Easter God be, allowed such attitudes to “Here we are, Lord.” become normalised, we Alleluia! Amen! have turned away, and in doing so such violence is (This is an edited version of made the victim’s fault. The President’s Address. Enjoying a break at Gippsland Grammar School, Bairnsdale campus As a bishop, I would For the full text, see gipppanglican.org.au)

June 2017 The Gippsland Anglican Page 11 Faith at work TGA Jan Down Margaret Hancock Diocesan calendar argaret Hancock Committee worker, nursery-woman, music teacher First Saturday of each month: all welcome to walk the labyrinth at the end of Back Beach Road at San Remo, enjoys the great Bass/Phillip Island Moutdoors and a good Phillip Island, from 10:30 am. argument, so it makes sense that she was President of the June Conservation Society on Phillip 10 11:00 am Ordination to the priesthood of the Island for thirty years. Rev’d David Perryman The Society battled for many years to persuade the 17 11:00 am – 3:00 pm The Rev’d Canon Professor government to buy the land Dorothy Lee at The Abbey, Raymond Island. to create the Nature Park Dorothy will speak to her new book: on the island. Margaret The Gospels Speak: Addressing Life’s Questions. explains that back in the Time for conversation, questions and learning together 1960s, land developers were at The Abbey. $40 including lunch. “making squillions”. But the Bookings by Tuesday 13th please. Phone 5156 6580 conservationists finally won or email [email protected] that battle, and the Nature Park is now celebrating its 17 1:00 – 4:00 pm A Soiree: poetry and music from twentieth year. the folk tradition, St Paul’s Cathedral, Sale. “I frankly enjoy committees”, Details Dean Susanna Pain: 0418 637 469 Margaret says, and she is quite the veteran committee worker. 18 9:30 am The Rev’d Canon Professor Dorothy Lee As well as the Conservation Photo: Les Ridge to preach and celebrate at St Peter’s by the Society committee, of which Lake, Paynesville she is still a member, Margaret Margaret Hancock has been Secretary of the Parish 19–22 Clergy Conference at The Abbey, Raymond Island Council of St Philip’s Cowes, looks back to what the island timing of the church services, is a Synod Representative, is a must have been like when it and Margaret feels that this 23 1:00 – 4:00 pm The Crossing Drop-in Centre, stand-in for the parish Clergy was part of the Aboriginal commitment is being lost today; Drouin, celebrates 25 years in service to God Appointments Advisory Board, people’s annual circuit, with it’s where “a lot of church people and community with a special afternoon tea, is still involved with Red Cross luxuriant native vegetation and fall down – worship should be 134a Princes Way Drouin. Contact the Secretary: (having chaired a committee teeming with wild-life. She first priority on Sunday”. [email protected] or phone 5625 2655 for some time), is a member points out that while there were So when Margaret, years of the local Rural Australians no massacres there, the original later on Phillip Island, found for Refugees and has been a inhabitants were dispossessed the working bees for the July member of Bishop in Council. of their land, and stresses how Conservation Society were held 2 2:30 pm NAIDOC Week service, Her current role on the important it is that the church on Sunday mornings, she would Lake Tyers Aboriginal trust committee for the Conservation recognise this. still go to church first. The other Society is dealing with planning She says “it must have been members of the committee – issues and VCAT. “You get used a very beautiful place” before who had no religious affiliation 7 5:00 pm Friday – 3:30 pm Saturday: Come with it”, she says; “You get to know white people came, clearing the – just accepted that she would Chaucer’s Pilgrims to Canterbury Cathedral, then how much of it is just theatre”. trees for agriculture and quickly be late. dine at the Tabard Inn Presenters: June Treadwell She describes Senior changing the ecology. Margaret has never been and Sue Fordham. History of Canterbury Cathedral, Counsels as ham Margaret has In terms of caring tempted to leave the church, music and art. For full details: Phone 5156 6580 actors: “I love all the never been for God’s creation, but adds “I’ve argued with it or email [email protected] threatrical part”. She tempted to Margaret says “We’ve a lot”. She remembers when 22 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Lay Reader Training Day, came to understand leave the church effectively mucked services for An Australian “This person is not up”. One example Prayer Book were being St John’s Bairnsdale, Bishop Kay to lead my enemy; they’re but adds she mentions is the trialled in Ballarat. People in paid to put a different “I’ve argued magnificent oyster the congregation were invited 22 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Anam Cara Community point of view”, and with it a lot”. beds at Rhyll which to meet afterwards to critique Quiet Day, St Mary’s Morwell, she saw there was no were fished out. In the them and she thoroughly with the Rev’d Dr Dean Spalding need to be afraid of them. early days the oysters were sent enjoyed those discussions. Margaret calls herself a to Geelong by boat, then on Coming from the Ballarat August “blow-in”, having only been a to the goldfields of Ballarat diocese, where there had permanent resident on Phillip and Bendigo. been no women on vestry, 11–12 5:00 pm Friday to 3.30 pm Saturday: Island since 1972. “I’m not Margaret sees many and which has only allowed Gippsland Diocesan Retreat at The Abbey, a local. You’ve got to be born advantages in having been women priests since 2013, Raymond Island: “Winter Earth and Pomegranates”, here”, she says. There are still born during the Depression and Margaret was surprised – and led by the Very Rev’d Susanna Pain farmers on the island who growing up on the fringe of the pleased – to be invited to be are descendants of the early Second World War. Children Secretary of the Vestry at 19 12:00 noon: The Abbey Feast, white settlers. learnt how to be careful with St Philip’s Church at Cowes. with Chef Nikolai Blaskow Margaret first came for material things because of She is still very much involved a holiday in the summer of rationing. “We learned very in the life of the church and 1956/7 and loved it. So in 1960 early in life to be good walkers also has a strong awareness a congregation which has teacher in primary schools in she bought a block of land with – and later on, the joy and of the working of the diocese. enjoyed singing and a series Ballarat and Melbourne. a tiny hut, no water, power or freedom of bike riding. ‘Where “We don’t fully appreciate the of priests and organists who Currently she is writing six phone; just sheep grazing in the are you going?’ ‘We haven’t good work the diocese does for have enjoyed introducing biographies for a book about paddocks, the peacefulness of decided yet.’” us”, she comments, adding that new communion settings and women in conservation, a rising and going to bed with the Sunday, however, was (and her understanding probably hymns. “And since Fay Magee collaborative project which is sun and the delights of walking is) always church. Margaret comes from having grown up has been with us, the joy of part of next year’s anniversary on the beach at dawn. grew up in the Anglican church in a cathedral parish. unaccompanied singing.” activities. She has also lately As Phillip Island prepares for at Ballarat, where her mother One of the joys of being Margaret’s earlier work has played a role as a bag lady in next year’s 150th anniversary was the organist and her brother a member of the St Philip’s included running a nursery on Les Ridge’s annual Easter play of being opened up for closer sang in the cathedral choir. congregation for Margaret is Phillip Island for 20 years as at the church. What a varied life white settlement, Margaret Everything revolved around the that there has always been well as being a specialist music of service!

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