March 2006

Vision Advocate Sharing faith Lenten appointed on the road Studies 2006

Page 3 Page 6 Pages 9 - 12 Should God get a vote? With family values, abortion and intelligent design fi rmly on the political agenda the Australian community is reassessing the role of religion in Australia’s political life.

By Mardi Lumsden and Bruce Mullan

hile conventional wisdom was never to Wmix faith and politics, both the Prime Minister and Federal Treasurer have participated in media saturated attendances at the Hillsong Church in Sydney, and the Family First party with its strong Assemblies of God connection has campaigned successfully in both state and federal elections. Following the lead of George Bush and Tony Blair many of People who say Australia’s high profi le politicians religion and politics don’t mix now overtly lay claim to Christian understand neither one. faith and values. Mahatma Gandhi While the Australian Constitution prohibits government from imposing religious observance and states that religious test will not Uniting Church President Rev Dean Drayton speaking for the church. Photo by Stephen Webb courtesy of Insights be required as a qualifi cation for offi ce, Tony Abbott, Peter Costello, Kevin Rudd and even Prime “I think it’s time that those personnel … But we [the Labor Controversial retired Uniting Minister John Howard wear their people who have a view of faith party] will not for one moment Church minister Dorothy McRae- Read more faith credentials on their sleeve. from the other side of politics stand idly by while either the McMahon said there is an ultimate Mahatma Gandhi claimed that actually spoke out and dealt with Liberals, the Nationals or Family irony in the attempts of mainstream about religion anyone who says “religion and this challenge, and I’ve therefore First assert that God has somehow churches to enter political debate. and politics politics don’t mix understands got a responsibility and others of become some wholly owned “Howard in eff ect tells them neither one”, and self-proclaimed faith within our political tradition subsidiary of political conservatism to ‘stop meddling’ while at the Christian Socialist and Shadow have got a responsibility to start in this country,” Mr Rudd told Meet same time taking advantage of Foreign Minister, Kevin Rudd speaking out, and that’s what we’re the Press after the last election. what he sees as their capacity to P. 7 believes religion is back on the trying to do.” Professor Warhurst said deliver cheap welfare,” she said Why should Australian political agenda. Lecturer in Religion and Politics churches continue to be active in her commendation of Marion “Th ere’s a general reluctance, in Australia at the Australian participants in political debate. Maddox’s book God Under Howard: Christians be reservation, almost aversion in National University Professor John “Th ere has been continuing Th e rise of the religious right in involved in politics? this country for people mixing Warhurst said religion has regularly church debate over issues such Australian politics. religion and politics, particularly appeared in many political contexts as IVF, abortion, homosexuality Queensland Synod’s Social demonstrable religion,” Mr Rudd over the last fi ve years. and euthanasia. Th ere has been Responsibility Advocate Andrew P. 8 told ABC’s Compass program last Prof Warhurst points to the attention drawn to church Johnson said seeking justice is at Finding peace in year. election of Family First party responsibility for child abuse and the heart of our Christian calling. politics “I come from a long history member Steve Fielding at the 2004 the stolen generation.” “If we live that calling out we of people who have spoken about federal elections as a sign of the Th e Uniting Church is renowned will inevitably fi nd ourselves caught the relevance of their faith to their political infl uence of evangelical for its passion for justice and social up in politics,” he said. PP. 13 - 14 political beliefs. Christians but Kevin Rudd is responsibility, and leaders from “Both Jesus’ birth and his death What the UCA says “I think what we’ve seen in leading a left-wing fi ght back. both Synod and Assembly are occurred in the midst of political recent times is an increasing trend, “I think it is important for those regularly responding to a range of events, so the question for us as both in the Liberal Party and who would support the Family political issues such as treatment followers of Christ is not ‘should P. 20 other minor parties, to try and First party to know what their of refugees, children in detention, we get involved’, but ‘rather how do Journey asks... commandeer God for their own organisational basis is, where their anti-terror laws, industrial relations we respond’ when we fi nd ourselves political purposes. funding comes from and their law, gambling and poverty. involved in politics.” From the Editor

community, humility, servanthood. ourney is pleased to be able to that I search for more loving and What the world so often sees include in this March issue gracious responses. (and the media make sure of it) Ja series of fi ve small group As the Easter season approaches is disunity, exclusiveness, abuse of sessions that the Queensland Synod I hear the voice of Jesus say about trust and judgementalism. has produced for Lent 2006. his tormentors, “Father forgive Th e fi rst Christians were noticed Th ese studies are produced each them, they don’t know what they Fools for the sake of Christ because of their devotion to God, year but this time they have been are doing.” their strong sense of community, included in Journey. Journey commends the study he recent controversy, and I doubt that it fools many people their generosity and hospitality, Th e theme for the sessions is of Grace to all our readers. If you accompanying violence, because we all know what the real and their care for the poor. ‘Agents of Grace’, a wonderful don’t have a small group why not Tsparked by the publication motivation is. Th ese qualities of faith and topic given the current tensions get one together for fi ve weeks? in many newspapers around the On the other hand, the extensive life did not protect them from both within and beyond our church If you can’t, you can always read world of cartoons depicting the and prolonged violence that has persecution, but they were noticed community. through the material yourself and prophet Muhammad, raises some occurred represents a major over- for the right reasons. Th e small group I am part of has refl ect in quietness with God. pertinent questions for refl ection reaction that almost certainly Mark Twain once said, “Clothes recently worked though the What’s Th e prayer from week four of by Christians. refl ects more sinister behind the make the man. Naked people have so Amazing about Grace DVD and the Lenten Studies says this: It is my personal view (and scenes attitudes and infl uences. little infl uence in the world.” study series by Philip Yancey. I accept that there are diff ering What has happened represents a In reality, whether clothed or I was reminded again how God of love and grace, opinions) that the media in general particularly bad outcome at a time naked we can still be noticed for central the concept of grace is for forgive us when our fears, could act with a much greater when our common focus needs the wrong reasons. Paul suggests the Christian faith and am more intolerance, or indiff erence degree of responsibility in such to be on building relationships, that we need to put on another aware than ever of the need to create barriers between matters. understanding and tolerance across kind of clothing altogether. exercise grace. ourselves and others. I do not support government international, cultural and religious “As God’s chosen ones, holy I am also more confronted than Help us to embrace a new and censorship of the press, which boundaries. and beloved, clothe yourselves with ever when I encounter “un-grace” radical understanding of your does happen in some parts of the One dimension of the problem is compassion, kindness, humility, from those who would claim to be grace and purpose. world, and which is invariably that in those Muslim societies where meekness, and patience…Above Christian people. Transform our hearts and accompanied by various forms of religious devotion and national life all clothe yourselves with love, As the third session points out, minds today, oppression and injustice. are strongly identifi ed, there is which binds everything together the prayer that Jesus taught us says that we too might become I do advocate a healthy self- little understanding of the formal in perfect harmony.” (Colossians 3: we are to forgive those who sin willing participants in the regulation which incorporates separation of church and state that 12, 14) against us just as God has forgiven coming of your Kingdom common sense and a good measure is typical of secular western nations Th ere’s a wonderful old fable us. into the life of our world and of sensitivity in relation to issues like Denmark, where just about about a very vain Emperor who Shaking the dust off my feet time. that could cause unnecessary anything and anyone is fair game loved new clothes. sounded a much easier option but, Lord, your way is the way of off ence. for the cartoonist. However, there was an occasion like-it-or-not, I am called to live in love. Th e self-righteous defensiveness We consistently see the church when he was duped by a couple of fellowship in the Uniting Church Inspire and encourage us to of the media in response to the and its clergy caricatured on TV, in tricksters into believing that he was in Australia with others with whom love one another. violence, and appeal to the freedom the movies, and through the press. wearing the new clothes they had I disagree about some or even most Help us to be open-hearted, of the press, is what we have come Sometimes these depictions are made for him when, in fact, he was things. generous and hospitable, to expect. genuinely funny. Sometimes, if we naked. I am also called to act with grace especially with those who are Helping to fuel controversy and are honest about it, they help us to No one was prepared to tell and patience towards those who diff erent from ourselves. confl ict and then shrugging off all see ourselves as others see us. him the truth until he was walking react aggressively or even violently May your Spirit break down responsibility is common practice. Th e challenge for Christians, through the city and a little boy over issues that seem relatively the barriers that separate us, therefore, is to face the challenge called out, “He’s got nothing on!” trivial to my way of thinking. and make us one in Jesus Christ of a society (clearly refl ected in Paul has more wisdom for us. To all those who threaten, bully our Lord. the media) in which a great many He says that it is OK to be seen by or harass me I want to say “lighten Amen. people see the church at best as others as fools if it is for the sake up”, but the old WWJD (What well-intentioned and benevolent, of Christ, and the evidence that we would Jesus do) question demands Bruce Mullan but quaint and out-of-touch, and belong to Christ is seen. at worst as irrelevant, moralistic “When reviled, we bless; when and hypocritical. persecuted we endure; when Can you help? Jesus taught us to be living slandered, we speak kindly.” (1 exemplars of the qualities that are Corinthians 4: 10, 12-13) Journey is in need of a camera tripod. fundamental to the nature of the I would suggest that we are If you would like to donate a second Kingdom of God: reconciliation, very unlikely to be the subject of hand tripod to Journey please email forgiveness, peace-making, true caricatures and cartoons when [email protected] those are the qualities most evident in our lives and relationships. Sign of the Times First in the monthly Signs of Journey is published 11 times a year for the Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia. the Times section for 2006 is from Opinions expressed in Journey do not necessarily refl ect those of the editor or the Ashgrove West Uniting Church. policies of the Uniting Church. Journey is pleased to announce Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement; inclusion of advertising that the winner of the best Sign of material is at the discretion of the publisher. the Times for 2005 was Centenary Journey cannot guarantee the publication and/or return of submissions but makes Uniting Church for their sign that every eff ort to do so if requested. read, “Teddy where are you?” Th at personal message made a Editor Bruce Mullan real connection with Teddy and his Associate editor / advertising Mardi Lumsden family. Well done Centenary on Design Osker Lau using your sign to connect. Production: Communications Services Unit Printing: Rural Press (QLD) Printing, Ormiston, Journey encourages you to think Circulation 15,500 about how many people pass ISSN: 0817-4466 your noticeboard each day and Closing date for editorial and advertising for April Journey is 10 March remember that people do read it. Next issue of Journey will be available in churches on Sunday, 2 April Th ey notice what you say and even think about your message. Communications Services Unit Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod Send your Signs of the Times to 60 Bayliss Street Auchenfl ower QLD GPO Box 674 Brisbane QLD 4001 [email protected]. Ph: 07 3377 9910 Email: [email protected] Fax: 07 3377 9796 Web: www.journeyonline.com.au Please send large .jpg fi les.

2 Journey, March 2006 Vision for Mission Advocate sees a future for the church

ev Duncan Macleod has supporting fresh, new and culturally been appointed to the new relevant missional communities in RVision for Mission Advo- Queensland,” he said. cate position by the Queensland “A strong part of my motivation Synod. is the desire to share the gospel in Synod Secretary Rev Jenny fresh ways that make sense to the Tymms said the appointment of unchurched.” a Vision for Mission Advocate is Although Mr Macleod part of the Synod’s strategy to seed will no longer be a part of the new mission ventures which will Synod’s Mission Consultant build intentional relationships with Team his passion for empowering people of the wider community. local congregations and faith “We are looking to establish communities to reach out to their new initiatives which are outside communities will continue to fi nd more traditional church ventures.” expression in this new role. Mr Macleod will have a pivotal “At the heart of the church is leadership role in assisting the its call to share the good news of church to implement this vision Jesus Christ in a way that is faithful which was approved by the Synod to the biblical witness we have meeting at Carrara last year. received.” “We were looking for someone Th e advocate will work closely with ideas and expertise in with a small team of creative identifying and growing creative and energetic people who are ventures and who could provide experienced in working outside encouragement for those who are traditional Uniting Church working at the innovative edge of structures. the church,” Ms Tymms said. Th is Vision for Mission An ordained minister with Facilitation Team will work with a background in youth work, Mr Macleod to off er support and horticulture and congregational guidance for the establishment and ministry in New Zealand, Mr development of mission initiatives Macleod worked as minister of across the Synod. youth and families at Robina Described by his colleagues Uniting Church on the Gold Coast as a promoter and networker, Mr before joining the Queensland Macleod intends to work across Synod as a Mission Consultant in the Synod encouraging all kinds of 2002. people to vision new ways of being He has taken responsibility for church. the development of the Seeds of “I believe that the Synod’s vision Hope church planting movement will need to allow for a wide variety and, with his family, is involved in of models operating alongside each Pacifi c Parks, a UCA house church other,” he said. network on the north Gold Coast. You can read more about the Mr Macleod is excited by the Vision for Mission at the new website opportunity to serve God in this http://www.visionformission.unitingchurch. new role. org.au or call Rev Duncan Macleod “I am strongly interested in on 07 3377 9809. pursuing the vision of seeding and New Vision for Mission Advocate Rev Duncan Macleod. Photo by Osker Lau JAMming for Jesus hat do the bands ‘Soul- becomes a venueFROM forPAGE quality 1 Emmanuel UC Youth Worker frame’, ‘Rookie’, ‘Half- Christian bands to come, play and Tim Robinson hopes it will WWay Out’, ‘Maver- proclaim their message of the good continue to be just that. ick’ and ‘Falling Short’ all have in news found in Jesus Christ. “Without working together, common? Th ey have all rocked at JAM has become a popular most churches don’t have the JAM a live music event for young venue for youth and young adults opportunities to help their young people held at Emmanuel Uniting from churches around Brisbane people engage with other people Church, Enoggera. to enjoy a great night of music, their age in this kind of context,” Each fi fth Sunday in the month connecting with other young said Mr Robinson. the 6pm service at Emmanuel people and worshipping together. “I guess we really want JAM to 4ALENTED be a place that can help resource TERM other churches in this way and encourage young people in their DEPOSITS faith in Jesus.” Emmanuel’s evening worship Quintin Buchel director Nathan Robertson believes Customer Service Officer it is also a good opportunity for teenagers to invite their friends !5#)34ERM$EPOSITISANINVESTMENTACCOUNTWITH “JAM events are a great ‘bridge’ TALENTˆITEARNSYOUMONEYWHILEWORKINGFORTHECHURCH between youth group and church 2IGHTNOW IFYOUINVESTBETWEEN AND FOR and we hope to expand the JAM lVEYEARSYOULLEARNlVEPERCENTPERANNUM program this year with events in 9OUHAVETHEOPTIONTOREINVESTYOURQUARTERLYINTEREST local high schools. PAYMENTS SOYOURINTERESTCOMPOUNDSˆMAKINGYOUR “We hope those who come from EFFECTIVEINTERESTRATEEVENHIGHER other places will go back to their !NDYOURDEPOSITHELPSPOWEREXCITINGPROJECTSˆFOR CHURCHES CHARITIESANDSCHOOLS churches encouraged and uplifted 0HONEMEAT5#)3ONORVISITOURWEBSITEAT by their experiences here.” WWWUCISCOMAUFORANAPPLICATIONFORMANDINFORMATION For more information about JAM and other ONTHELATESTRATES up-coming events at Emmanuel UC go to www.emmanueluc.unitingchurch.org.au or Christian band ‘Falling Short’ performing at Emmanuel’s JAM service call Tim Robinson (07) 3355 2162.

Journey, March 2006 3 Trainees head to new ground By Mardi Lumsden “Mostly so far the traineeship and switch over into chaplaincy hile most high has been a lot of meetings, but that after I have got a bit more life school graduates are is good because it is preparing me experience.” Wpreparing for further for what is ahead and giving me Monique Mawbey said she is study, apprenticeships, working an idea of what is going to happen “following the minister around”. or travelling, three young Uniting this year,” said seventeen-year-old “I have been a couple of times to Church people are exploring their Mr Core. the aged care home. I kind of feel call to ministry with a year long “I want to become a high sorry for the old people because traineeship in their chosen fi eld. school chaplain after I fi nish this they have so much to share and Tagisa Lale from St Ives UC traineeship and have done a bit give and nobody really willing to Samoan congregation is enjoying of other stuff . I want to get back listen to them, and the ones that her work at Wheller Gardens into the high schools and help out are there are too busy,” she said. aged care residential facility with teenagers with what they’re going “At the end of the traineeship, I chaplains Colin Gurteen and Ruth through. am hoping to go to Bible College O’Sullivan. “I owe a lot to my high school to become a minister. I suppose my Gavin Core and Monique chaplain, Peter Newman. He biggest fear is that this traineeship Mawbey, both from the Emerald really helped me when I was going tells me that I shouldn’t be a Uniting Church congregation, are through some pretty tough times.” minister. Maybe it’s not God that starting their work in high school Mr Core graduated from wants me to be a minister, maybe Mark McDuff and Kym Preston talk on spirituality for Generation X and Y chaplaincy and congregational Emerald State High last year and it is just me.” at West End Uniting Church. Photo by Mardi Lumsden ministry respectively. was school captain. For more information about the Both say they are well into “I’m planing on going to Traineeship program contact the Paul preparations for the year and university and studying teaching Yarrow on 07 33779866 Progressive spirituality are looking forward to what lies and drama and then I’ll teach [email protected] ahead. drama in high school for a while or visit www.traineeships.ucaqld.com.au. fi nds where the church misses Gen X and Y

By Mardi Lumsden

he Progressive Spirituality Mr Dingle said young people Network continued are often too preoccupied building Tits Conversations on careers to explore their spirituality. Spirituality with a session titled He said from the outside, organised “Perspectives on Spirituality religion can look more like a social from Generations X and Y”, in event than a focus on spirituality. February. “Questioning isn’t seen to be Th e group meets at West popular. Spirituality shouldn’t be a End Uniting Church on Sunday comfortable place all the time. Ministry trainees Monique Mawbey and Gavin Core share a joke while attending training programs evenings and is committed to “Young people want to be in Brisbane in February. Photo by Mardi Lumsden exploring emerging spiritualities, challenged. Th ey need the church the boundaries of belief, ethics, and to challenge them, the world and spiritual experience especially in the the church itself.” light of contemporary knowledge. Mark McDuff , the third panel Becoming a foster carer Speaking with a panel of three member, was brought up in a s part of the Queensland Generation X and Y’ers (those conservative church environment Government’s initiative born in the 1970s and 1980s) the but as a teen the church and indeed Ato fi nd safe and nurturing group discussed the relevance of the Bible lost signifi cance in his life homes for children at risk, the organized Christianity in the lives and was “not enough” to sustain his Department of Child Safety of twenty and thirty year olds. quest for spirituality. 'PTUFS
DBSFST

has recognised Uniting Church Kim Preston, an art teacher, Now, as the father of two young NBLF
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EJGGFSFODF families as potential providers said church became irrelevant to children, Mr McDuff thinks about of loving homes for children in her when she hit her teenage years spirituality for his children. He special need. partly because it was not a place said that modernising churches by What to do: that encouraged private spiritual putting in PowerPoint projectors •Attend an information session in contemplation. and drum kits is not necessarily your local area and attend a pre- Now working at a church- the answer to making organised training interview. run school, Ms Preston said her religion relevant in young people’s •Talk with children, partner, creative arts department strives to lives. extended family and friends. help the students discover their Th ere was an overwhelming •Attend pre-service training own spirituality through creative sense that young people want to over several sessions on several exercises and personal refl ection. be listened to as whole people. weekends. She spoke of the spiritual Th ey yearn to be signifi cant. Th ese •Lodge an offi cial application intelligence and insight of young people want to ask questions. Why form. people. Ms Preston said one of her am I here? Why do I believe that? •Undergo referee, medical and year 10 students said the reason Th e impression from young criminal history checks. she was having trouble with her people present was that they could •Receive a Certifi cate of Approval art project - to develop a personal ask questions to a certain point but, (you are now a foster carer). symbol - was because ‘she hadn’t if they questioned too far, they were •Take placements of children and met herself yet’. not seen as Christian. young people. Jonathan Dingle a young Th e overall feeling was that •Receive support from various engineer and a Christian spoke church as it is may not last, but agencies and support groups. about the diffi culties of working the story will. Th e story will have Diff erent processes can apply in an environment that was validity. depending on the agencies. largely critical of mythology and For more information on the For more information call the spirituality. Progressive Spirituality Network #FDPNF
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GPTUFS
DBSFS foster carer recruitment line on “You lose the art of soul searching and to see a program of 

 1300 550 877 or visit in engineering,” he said. upcoming events, visit [[[GLMPHWEJIX]UPHKSZEY www.childsafety.qld.gov.au www.progressivespirituality.net

4 Journey, March 2006 Church cooks Aussie breakfast for Gold Coast residents acon, eggs, bush ballads “It’s a place where people and face painting kept over can come for a second chance, B5000 residents entertained fi nd hope and, with a little bit of at the big Australia Day breakfast creativity, come out with a whole hosted on the Robina Common by new opportunity.” the Robina Uniting Church. Th is is the fi fth year the Uniting Newly appointed Robina Church has hosted the Australia Uniting Church Minister Rev Day breakfast and, unlike the 2005 Stuart Cameron said it was a great event, the magnifi cent weather celebration and he was excited to saw people turn out in their see the community come together thousands for the free breakfast on such an important day. and entertainment. “As a church we want to give as Catering coordinator Mr much back to the community as we Malcolm McMaster said they had can, and this event is a gift to the cooked over 2000 eggs, 100 kg of community,” said Mr Cameron. bacon, 140 kg of sausages and used “We’re drawing from all sorts of 230 loaves of bread. people: it’s not just the church but Australia Day saw a number of we are in partnership with local UCA members honoured for their businesses and other organisations work in the community. to come together and celebrate a Mr John Martin Butters, a Lay day we all can enjoy.” Preacher and Elder at Cleveland One of the more unusual Uniting Church, was awarded the activities was a fashion parade Medal (OAM) of the Order of featuring recycled clothing from Australia in the General Division the church’s Opportunity Shop. for service to education and the Fashion parade coordinator community through the Uniting Mrs Liz Adams said the parade Church in Australia. featured 36 models of all shapes, Joyce Knight from Mt Mee sizes and ages because they wanted was also awarded an Order of to show that everyone can look Australia medal for her work in the nice if they are wearing the right community. kind of gear. In 1985 Mrs Knight brought “Th e Opportunity Shop is a together a group of ladies as a wonderful symbol for the church,” committee to rescue the Mt Mee said Mrs Adams. Community Church from its Five year old Maddie Armstrong making damper at Robina Uniting Church’s Big Aussie Breakfast. derelict condition at that time. Photo by Bruce Mullan Pastor Anne is more University honours ex-President he University of Ulster has In 2003 Professor Haire was Thonoured the Director of the elected as President of the National Australian Centre for Christianity Council of Churches in Australia than just the face and Culture Reverend Professor (NCCA). James Haire. He is a leading scholar and niting Church Lay A native of Belfast, Professor contributor to dialogue between the Pastor and Minister of Haire became Principal of Trinity Catholic Church and Protestant Uthe Mt Louisa House of Th eological College and President churches, both in Australia and Praise, Anne Harley, received the of Brisbane College of Th eology beyond. Townsville Australia Day Citizen and later was elected President of Professor Haire will receive the of the Year for her eff orts in co- the Uniting Church in Australia degree of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) ordinating the Stable on the (2000-2003). in recognition of his promotion of Former Uniting Church President Strand program. interfaith understanding. Rev Professor James Haire Townsville Mayor Tony Mooney was reported by the Townsville Bulletin as having said that Townsville was acknowledging WHICH SCHOOL citizens who had achieved at the FOR YOUR CHILD ? highest level. Moreton Bay Boys’ College Ms Harley claimed that she Day school for boys 07 3906 9444 was just the face of the Stable from Prep to Year 7 in 2006 www.mbbc.qld.edu.au program which only happens Pastor Anne Harley. Photo by Lori Clayfield College because so many volunteers and a Girls: Prep to Year 12 07 3262 0262 good working committee make it Neilsen courtesy of the Townsville Bulletin Boarding: Girls over 10 years. www.clayfield.qld.edu.au so successful. Boys: Prep to Year 5. ‘‘Th ere are a lot of people who “It puts her a little above being Somerville House work to help give our great city just the face,” Ms Hendle said. Day and boarding school for girls 07 3248 9200 a spirit,’’ Pastor Harley told the “To have those attributes Preparatory to Year 12 www.somerville.qld.edu.au Townsville Bulletin. acknowledged and honoured Member of the Mt Louisa in such a way is a wonderful Brisbane Boys’ College Boarding and day school 07 3309 3500 congregation Julie Hendle achievement for her, the Stable and for boys in Years 4-12 www.bbc.qld.edu.au commended Ms Harley’s the Christian community. enthusiasm, commitment and “I am sure you all thank God Sunshine Coast Grammar School attitude and said she was always for the opportunity to know her, Co-educational day school 07 5445 4444 Preschool to Year 12 www.scgs.qld.edu.au there at the assembling, pulling to have worked alongside her and down, or fi nal pack up and every believe she is truly worthy of the Presbyterian and Methodist A ministry of the Uniting and Presbyterian Churches, providing excellence Schools Association in education in a Christian and caring environment. day in between. honour she has received.” www.pmsa-schools.edu.au

Journey, March 2006 5 Sharing faith on the road edcliff e UC minister Rev of Drug Arm, Mr Maskelyne Peter Armstrong has been said his work made him see other Rtalking a lot lately about perspectives of becoming involved church being outside a building. in a congregation. One of the Redcliff e “Work made me appreciate congregation who has been taking that there are a lot of Christian God outside the churchyard is communities that make some Geoff Maskelyne, who recently people feel out of place. conducted a service for the Ulysses “It was an intentional thing in Motorcycle Club Memorial Day. joining Ulysses as a Christian, to be Th e Ulysses Club for older a Christian where I was at. Not to motorcyclists is dedicated to those be a loudmouth, just a presence.” over 50, although anyone over 40 Th e Ulysses Club, Redcliff e years can join as a junior member. branch, has quite a presence Th e inaugural Memorial Day in their community. Th ey have was held at the ‘Spit’ at Somerset adopted Rothcoe Blue Care as a Dam to celebrate the lives of Ulysses focal point. members who had “ridden on”. Each year they do a Christmas Nineteen Ulysses Clubs the South run to raise money for Blue Care East Queensland attended and the and attend the annual fete to give day was mirrored nationally. free motorbike rides. Th e plot, donated to the club by Mr Maskelyne has a matter-of- the Brisbane Water Board, will act fact approach. Th e memorial day as a permanent Ulysses Memorial was much larger than any of the Garden. organisers had expected and he Mr Maskelyne has been riding was glad to be a small part of an motorbikes for 55 years and has important day. been a member of Ulysses for “I did what I was asked and I around six years. felt it was a success.” “I have always been fairly By Mardi Lumsden sensitive about cloistered Christianity,” said Mr Maskelyne. “I prefer to be out where the rubber hits the road.” Coretta After working for 38 years at the organisation that became Drug Arm and ten years in Queensland Scott King Geoff Maskelyne ready to hit the road with the Ulysses Motorcycle Club. Photo by Mardi Lumsden Corrective Services as an agent remembered

Amazed by School Packs response Coretta Scott King, the widow of Rev Martin Luther King Jr, s the School Packs for the expect such an instantaneous and has been remembered for her Solomons project gains enormous response. own leadership in the struggle Amomentum, the goal of “We are currently calling out for civil and human rights in the fi lling 800-1000 backpacks is for volunteers who would be able US and throughout the world. drawing close. to help us sort and pack backpacks “She was an unwavering “We have been overwhelmed into boxes ready for shipment to advocate of civil and human by the response,” said project the Solomons. rights and a champion of non- coordinator Heather den Houting. “If you or your youth group violence,” said Rev Michael E. “Th is project appears to have could spend any time in assisting Livingston, president of the US touched a nerve in the church with this it would really help us get National Council of Churches. and community, and people are the backpacks ready for shipment.” King died on 31 January. She responding above and beyond all If you can help over the next few was 78. expectations. weeks, please contact Heather den King played a notable role in “Th e stories we are hearing Houting on 33779805, or email the US civil rights movement about people who are receiving [email protected]. during the 1950s and 1960s unexpected help and assistance au. alongside her late husband. After from shops, and those churches her husband’s assassination in who are having special services 1968, Mrs King became a leader to bless the packs are deeply in her own right, pledging: “I’m moving, and refl ect a real sense of more determined than ever community. that my husband’s dream will “What has also astounded us is become a reality.” the number of donations we have Among her legacies was the received. creation of the Martin Luther “Because we have no doubt we King Jr Center for Nonviolent will achieve the targeted number Social Change. of backpacks required, with the US President George W. donated funds we are planning to Bush said, “Mrs King’s lasting buy class sets of books, chalk and contributions to freedom and duplicating paper for the teachers.” equality have made America a However, the number of better and more compassionate backpacks that are coming in has nation.” overwhelmed the staff , who did not Chris Herlinger ENI Heather den Houting sorts piles of coloured pencils ready for the www.eni.ch backpacks. Photo by Mardi Lumsden

6 Journey, March 2006 Why should Christians be involved in politics?

By John M. Hitchen in this political environment. His response to their question or some the political arena sets out the basic answer to all is still seen as part of the such questions about our duty F‘world’ they are to shun. For to government: “Give back to the others it is a stage to commandeer Emperor what rightly belongs to him for a public evangelistic testimony and give to God what rightly belongs to the nation. to Him.” Others appear to regard politics For Jesus, the Christian has a as the scene in which to work as duty both to government and to reactionaries to bring in a Christian God. We are to repay what we owe theocracy in which legislated the government for the services it morality will overcome all the provides and at the same time we woes of modern society - assuming are to honour God as our true King political coercion can change the and true Lord. human heart. Jesus was not teaching that Others, who see political political responsibility and our involvement as a human duty to God are two distinct areas responsibility they share with all of duty to keep separate from each their fellow-citizens, are at odds other. One part of our life does not about the way to develop economic, belong to God and a diff erent part educational or welfare policies. to the government. As Harold Turner noted, ‘we Good government and valid need a theology and philosophy of political and societal concerns all the political realm’. derive ultimately from God who Th is begs the foundational gives his gifts without partiality. question, ‘Why be involved in the Christians do not have political system at all?’ a monopoly on political God the Father instituted and commonsense. Other people have oversees the political realm as much sound moral judgement. as every other part of creation. Christians in politics will be seldom respected and often be called into a full-time career in thing, although we may believe His nature and his role as the quick to recognise and acknowledge opposed, is of more lasting value politics and even amongst these we that these qualities are well served active ruler of our universe provide the validity and insights of others, than the might of the sword or the need to beware of assuming that the by the Christian conviction and the basic reasons for our political work with them for the common legislation of the state. “right” thing is for them to express integrity of the builder.” involvement. good and will seek to bridge the As comparatively insignifi cant their calling through membership Christ-like humility will We must be involved in the diff erences between diff erent minor prophets we know that in an overtly Christian party. surely characterize any Christian political issues of our day because sections of the community. the Good News we gossip to our We need always to be careful involvement in politics, so one- we share the life of the Living God While there are issues against neighbour about right living before about claiming that we represent eyed dogmatism and/or proud who is himself just, and who seeks which we must take a stand, a Christ Jesus contains the dynamic the Christian position on a political triumphalistic approaches will justice among humans. merely combative mentality will to transform both individuals and, issue. therefore be excluded for the As the central theme of his ensure Christians are marginalised through them, communities. Reinhold Niebuhrs warns that Christian. earthly teaching ministry, Jesus in the political arena. We seek to ensure humble, ‘we must never declare our politics To quote Neuhaus again, announced he had come to We need to become known for discerning and widely-respected to be ‘Christian politics’, thereby “Christians are called to walk not inaugurate the ‘reign of God’. what we are for, rather than for Christians are elected to parliament implicitly excommunicating those the road to political victory but the His kingly rule embraces and what we are against. because we want their presence Christians who disagree with us’. way of the cross.” infl uences every realm of human Th e commands to submit and words to continue to inform, Richard Neuhaus says pointedly, life, politics included. He is indeed, to government authorities are to challenge and to guide opinion “Christians engaged in politics John M. Hitchen, BA, BD, PhD ‘Lord of all’. preceded by strong pleas to, by contributing positively to public will bring personal integrity and is Lecturer in Missions at the Our political task involves “Do what is right in the eyes of moral awareness and good political devotion to the common good. Bible College of New Zealand demonstrating to our modern everybody. If it is possible, as far as sense. But that does not make their and Pathways Bible and Mission world with all its political forces it depends on you, live at peace with Too often we have said too engagement ‘Christian politics’. It College. This is an extract of what it means to represent the one everyone. Do not take revenge...” little, and that too late, so that is still just politics. a longer article posted on the whose lordship embraces all the One important reason for we have only ourselves to blame “A Christian engineer who builds Evangelical Alliance 2004 powers at work in the universe. seeking to be salt and light in our if Christians are regarded as a really good bridge has not built Election Home Page http:// Jesus was often surrounded by community arises from lessons reactionary traditionalists rather a ‘Christian bridge.’ Th e merit of www. evangelicalalliance.org. active members of the political from biblical history about the role than astute moral leaders. the project depends upon qualities au/election/aWhyShould.htm parties of his day but acted deftly of the prophet which, although Only a few of us are likely to pertinent to the ‘bridginess’ of the Every Day with Jesus author dies

elwyn Hughes died on 9 own Christian faith. Following the death in 1986 of his wife, the CHILDREN & YOUNG FAMILIES COORDINATOR January ending a ministry ministerial training and ordination tragically premature death of their The Uniting Church Beenleigh Region in South-East that spanned more than as an Assemblies of God minister, two sons in more recent years, and S Queensland is seeking a full-time Coordinator for ministry to six decades, in which he uniquely he served in a number of churches. his own serious illness. children and young families. combined the roles of writer, pastor, In 1965 he initiated a series of Th e writing of Every Day with counsellor and teacher. short daily Bible-reading guides, Jesus had always been the fi rst This exciting position is open to a lay, specified or ordained person. He also founded CWR written on blank postcards, for call of God on Selwyn’s life and, (Crusade for World Revival), an the benefi t of friends and church in more recent months, when no For an information pack call the church office (Tel 07 3807 international organisation that members. Demand exceeded longer able to travel, it gave him 5969) or email to [email protected], or contact has spearheaded the training of supply and soon these guides great pleasure and satisfaction to Rev Dennis Robinson on 0418 714 432. Christian counsellors, leaders and became a bimonthly publication. continue writing Every Day with Applications close 31 March 2006. workers throughout the world and Now Every Day with Jesus is read Jesus and thus continue to reach that continues to produce Christian daily by nearly a million people all the world and minister to nearly resources, including the bestselling around the world. one million people every day. Every Day with Jesus. Remarkably, he personally wrote He was therefore able to be well Born on 27 April 1928, Selwyn every issue of Every Day with in advance in his writing schedule. Hughes was inspired by the faith Jesus, only occasionally assisted by In agreement with Selwyn, plans of his family. Many of his relatives other writers. He continued to are in place for his ministry through had been infl uenced by the great write prolifi cally for over 40 years, Every Day with Jesus to continue Welsh Revival of 1904 and, at during which time he weathered into the future. the age of 16, he professed his the vicissitudes of life, including (Source: Crusade for World Revival)

Journey, March 2006 7 Women head to WCC Assembly

Th e World Council of Churches to speak with one voice to alert celebrated increased participation political leaders to tackle the issue. by women at its 9th Assembly held “Just as atomic weapons changed in Brazil in February. the very way we thought about Leaders from the world’s largest life, so too the potential of major grouping of churches said that climatic changes put life as we 45 per cent of participants were know it in danger,” said Mr Kobia. females. Kobia, a Methodist from Kenya “Th e WCC provides a space for who took offi ce as WCC general women,” said Agnes Abuom, the secretary in January 2004, has WCC’s Africa regional president repeatedly emphasised the need on 14 February, the opening day for churches to respond to a global of a global meeting of the council’s shift in the centre of gravity of highest governing body that is held Christianity from the northern to once every seven years. the southern hemisphere. Th e theme of the event was Th e gathering marked the mid- “God in your grace, transform the point of the WCC’s Decade to world” and major issues discussed Overcome Violence: 2001-2010, were Muslim / Christian relations an initiative launched at the last in light of the Danish cartoon council assembly in Harare. Mr furore, globalization, and climate Kobia says it has taken on increased change. urgency following the continuing WCC general secretary Rev confl ict in Iraq and a war on terror. Samuel Kobia said climate change Th e WCC consists of more represents one of humanity’s most than 340 churches representing Brad Chapman, living the connection between faith and politics dire threats and he has appealed to some 550 million people all over denominations around the world the world.

Finding peace in politics Do you recognise anyone in this photo?

rad Chapman is a self- Australian Government works. some of the light of the author of professed high school “I have always been fascinated life.” Bdropout. Th e 22 year-old with ‘power’ and the mechanics of However, how does his faith left school as a young entrepreneur how things are ‘made to happen’ intersect with his political and to run his own mortgage broking within society. Hence my interest social agendas? company on the Gold Coast. in politics and the political process. “My faith in a loving and Here is a young Christian who is I’m not affi liated with any particular merciful God who calls God’s exploring the world where religion political party or even ideology, people to walk in the steps of Jesus meets politics. I need the freedom to stand and forms the core of my identity and As a teenager, Mr Chapman argue on whichever side of the dictates who I am. As such, my became interested in both issue I believe is right,” he said. faith is inseparable from those Christianity and politics. Now he Mr Chapman has recently begun things that are important to me in fi nds himself actively participating working with the Anglican Board a political/social context. Th at said, in both and seeing the potential to of Mission, as Projects Offi cer I don’t see faith itself as a political make a diff erence in his world. to the Evangelism and Church issue – in the sense that I don’t think At 21 years of age, he was selected Support Program. political infl uence should be used as a member of the National Youth “Th is provides an amazing to persuade or enforce adherence to Roundtable (NYR) in 2004 and opportunity to work with Partners any particular faith. I do however, 2005. throughout Australia and the feel that the manifestation of my Th e National Youth Roundtable world and to participate in God’s faith demands that I be active in a is the Australian Government’s key mission. I hope to continue to learn political/social context.” mechanism for youth consultation. and grow and in a sense to off er my “As messed up as both church It brings together 30 young people life as a living sacrifi ce – however and politics can be at times, both from all over Australia and from humble and insuffi cient. remain legitimate avenues for diff erent walks of life and gives May tomorrow fi nd me still infl uencing and changing society. Th is has been identifi ed as a photo of a Synod meeting of the them direct access to Government trying to identify where God is While I don’t advocate working Methodist church at Beenleigh in 1955. and an education in the way the at work and attempting to refl ect solely through politics or the Perhaps you recognise some of these fathers and mothers of the institutional church; for good church. Th anks to Rev Ian Lord and the late Mrs Hilda Shepherd for people to desert these areas would impoverish us all.” Sharing the hope

niting Church people are 2nd Week of Lent: 12th March. invited to make a Lenten Pacifi c peace building initiative. Ugift to six worthy projects Th is project will enable a three in Asia, the Pacifi c and Australia. week peace-building course for 2005 YAP delegates Ask for a set of Lenten Appeal 300 leaders from the Protestant off ering envelopes from your local Christian Church of Bali. 5th Week of Lent: 2nd April. Uniting Church. 3rd Week of Lent: 19th March. Urgent manse renovations. Th is Make Lent 2006 a time where Region enterprises. Th is project project will fund the urgent need you share the hope. Read the will fund training opportunities to replace the asbestos roof of Lenten studies on pages 9-12 in for young Papuan Islanders in the Uniting Church manse on this edition of Journey. carpentry, engineering, boat Th ursday Island. 1st Week of Lent: 5th March. building and repair, general shop 6th Week of Lent: 9th April. Education for Leadership. East and fi nancial management. Young Ambassadors for Peace. Timor, one of the world’s newest 4th Week of Lent: 26th March. Th is project will provide week- nations is also one of the poorest. Training elders, women and youth. long YAP workshops to assist local Th is project will support the Th is project will assist and facilitate communities in strife torn Sri Protestant Church in East Timor participation of Indigenous Lanka. in preparing young people for Australian elders, youth and women For more information visit the Papuan Island Region enterprises in Salamo making coconut oil. Photo courtesy of Ray Scarlett future leadership. in the “Tomorrow’s Leaders Today” Synod Website at www.ucaqld. conference. com.au. 8 Journey, March 2006 Lenten Studies 2006

Agents of Grace

Introduction to Lenten Studies share in facilitating the conversation discussion or individual refl ection. Th e Come to us, God of love. and encouraging all to participate in the purpose is to explore the scripture, the Th ese resources are off ered to Uniting discussions. Th is is also a reason for the understandings of the people of faith and the Come to us, God of unity. Church congregations in Queensland for suggestion that a diff erent person speak the theme for the session. Come with your forgiveness and your group study and/or personal refl ection blessing each week. Th e role of ministry in the So what? – one question to focus us on healing grace. during Lent or at some other time during Uniting Church is a shared responsibility. some practical outcomes or application of Come, that we may witness to the year. Th e sessions link some biblical texts, Th e material in this Journey Lenten the theme in our daily lives. reconciliation for a divided world; passages from the Uniting Church Basis of Studies “lift-out” is copyright free for use in Prayer – people are invited to participate that we may gather around Christ’s table Union and other writings, with a series of congregations and by groups. in a shared prayer but please feel free to use as one people; questions designed to explore the subject of other prayers or an open prayer time. that we may affi rm one church, one faith, Grace. The group process Blessing – the same blessing is used one Lord: When we consider the subject of Grace for each session. It is recommended that a Come to us, God of unity. it calls us to focus both on the nature of diff erent person off ers the blessing to the Th e sessions follow a standard format but God and on our personal and corporate group each week. Come to us, God of hope. diff er in content and emphasis. Each session responsibility to be “agents of Grace”. Th ere will probably be more questions Come to us with your promises, will have: Th ere are some underlying assumptions in than some groups can use or have time to come in your mysterious presence. these fi ve sessions about how God speaks to Prayer – an opening prayer which is talk about. Feel free to pick and choose those Come, that we may marvel at your us. Th e Basis of Union acknowledges ‘that the taken from Uniting in Worship 2, a book questions which are most helpful to the faithfulness in past generations; Church has received the books of the Old of prayers and resources for ministers and group process. that we may celebrate the new things you and New Testaments as unique prophetic others leading worship. Th e same opening are doing among us today; and apostolic testimony, in which it hears prayer is used for each session. The opening prayer to use that we may be your pilgrim people the Word of God and by which its faith and Read – a passage or story from the each week on our journey to your kingdom: obedience are nourished and regulated’. It Bible usually in the Contemporary English Come to us, God of hope. also refers to foundational documents and Version translation. As this is not a “Bible Amen. Come to us, God of love. God’s continuing revelation to the church. study” as such, it is preferable for people Come with your extravagant kindness Th e Basis of Union is itself a foundational to use the translation provided rather than and your goodness. The blessing to use each document for the Uniting Church. We are rely on various versions. Th ere are also short week indeed people on the way, but not without extract from Th e Basis of Union and quotes Come, that we may see you in the people guidance. from other writers relating to the theme. of every race and culture; Th e grace of the Lord Jesus Christ If used in groups these sessions are Refl ection - a brief refl ection on the that we may embrace you in the lonely, and the love of God designed in a way that does not necessitate theme for the week. the bereaved and the rejected; and the communion of the Holy Spirit a group having a leader. Group members Talk about – some questions for group that we may be an accepting and a caring be with us all evermore. Amen. church:

Week 1 - Grace Filled World Lenten Studies 2006 Agents of Grace

Opening prayer Reflection earned is a diffi cult concept to grasp. Th at is Does having Christ described as the “Word” the joy and the shock of grace, God’s gift. off er you any new insights into who Christ Ask one person in the group to lead the Does God care about us? Does God even Before we even thought about or grasped the is? How do you think Christ is the “Word”? prayer with group members reading together understand us at all? concept of God, before we could do anything, Talk about what it cost Jesus Christ, as the the words in bold print. Not long ago we were looking at Christmas grace was there for us in Jesus Christ. Word present from the beginning with God, cards showing the baby Jesus lying in a As we begin our steps towards Easter we to become “fl esh”. Read manger. John’s Gospel has no such pictures also experience the scandalous story that this but begins Jesus’ story in quite a diff erent Word-in-the-fl esh (like all other fl esh) dies. So What? In the beginning was the Word, and the way. It is the story of one who was there Dies for our world, for us, for our friends, Word was with God, and the Word was God from the beginning. Th is “Word” was there for our loved ones, for people we don’t know Make a list of all the things we earn in life. … And the Word became fl esh and lived at the beginning of time and it was through - dies for life. How is grace diff erent to this? How is God among us, and we have seen his glory, the this Word that all was created. From his fullness we have all received grace gracious to the world and what does this glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace Later on in this brilliant passage at the upon grace – before we were even born mean for us and others? and truth … From his fullness we have all beginning of John’s Gospel we have the – wonderful grace for us all. Yes, God does received grace upon grace. (John 1: 1,14,16 shocking statement “the Word became fl esh”. care and God does understand. Faithful God Prayer New Revised Standard Version) Shocking not least for the people of the time camps with the world. In love for the world, God gave the Son to who fi rst heard this, that such a divine idea God, you have given us your Word in Jesus take away the world’s sin. Jesus of Nazareth and being could become fl esh and blood like Talk about Christ, born a helpless baby, announced the sovereign grace of God… every other human. Humanity and God are growing as a person who got tired, (Th e Basis of Union, Paragraph 3) connected in the most intimate way. “Grace” can mean anything from saying hungry, thirsty, hurt and misunderstood, “And the Word became fl esh.” In these fi ve Th e Word-in-the-fl esh is full of “grace and a prayer before a meal to describing the dying as a human in extreme pain. short words the central mystery which John truth”. Behind the language of this phrase undeserved generosity of God. What He didn’t have to do that God. will unfold is stated with absolute simplicity. are the Old Testament words describing the meanings of grace can you think of? What We thank you for grace and for the gift of It lies wholly beyond the power of fl esh and principle of God’s faithfulness, constancy and does grace mean to you? life. blood, of the will of man [humanity], to pass love. God who kept covenant relationships What is the most grace-fi lled thing anyone You are with us, thank you. from darkness to light, to lay hold of the life in Old Testament times is faithful now, even has ever done for you? If you feel comfortable Amen. of God. But what is impossible has become a before we get a chance to enter into any to do so, share the story with the group. fact by a movement in the opposite direction. agreement or sign on any dotted line. Has there ever been a time you felt God Blessing God … has become [hu]man and “pitched In a world where earning a living, aff ection, didn’t care about or understand you? If his tent” among us. (Lesslie Newbigin Th e a place in society, earning a degree or a you feel comfortable to do so, describe the Ask someone in the group to off er the Light Has Come) promotion are highly regarded, the idea of situation and how you feel looking back on blessing. something done for us which we haven’t that now.

Journey, March 2006 9 Week 2 - Grace Embodied Lenten Studies 2006 Agents of Grace Opening prayer this historical call of Jesus, there is the good For the rich and respected, God’s grace examples from scripture with the group. news of this event given by the Christian in Christ comes to provoke and disturb – to What for you is unique, special or diff erent Ask one person in the group to lead the community in the world which is itself grace challenge the powerful to a freer way of living, about Jesus’ authority compared with that of prayer with group members reading together and power… (Edward Schillebeeckx Christ: the way of God’s kingdom. For the broken, other religious leaders? the words in bold print. Th e Christian Experience in the Modern poor and powerless, Jesus embodies the grace World) of hope, community and self worth. So What? Read Ultimately, the grace embodied in Jesus Reflection is experienced as freedom. Freedom from: What were/are the consequences of living a Anyone who hears and obeys these teachings estrangement from God; the crippling power grace embodied life: of mine is like a wise person who built a For the Christian, the ultimate source and of life’s destructive forces; meaningless living; For Jesus himself? house on solid rock. Rain poured down, rivers experience of life-giving grace is Jesus Christ. the fear of death and freedom to pursue a For yourself? fl ooded, and winds beat against that house. Grace - in all its fullness, diversity, hope and future of hope, justice and dignity in service For the Christian community? But it did not fall, because it was built on disturbing reality – has become uniquely to God and others. For the wider world? solid rock. Anyone who hears my teachings focused and enfl eshed in this extraordinary, Th roughout its history the Church and doesn’t obey them is like a foolish person historical person, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus has affi rmed that it is through this grace- Prayer who built a house on sand. Th e rain poured is the one in whom the grace of God is not embodied life of Jesus, lived in full down, the rivers fl ooded, and the winds blew only visible. He is the one who claims God’s surrender to the love and will of God, even Gracious God, and beat against that house. Finally, it fell unique authority to lavish this grace on all to the extremity of his unjust death on a Th e law was given through Moses; with a crash. (Matthew 7:24-27) CEV who seek him. Roman cross, that a spiritual dynamic has grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. Jesus himself, in his life and death, made Jesus’ assumption of divine authority, been released. Th is dynamic, experienced We thank you for your grace to us embodied the response of humility, obedience and including the authority to dispense God’s supremely in Christ’s resurrection, and in your Son, Jesus. trust which God had long sought in vain. In grace, is highlighted in our bible reading. feely available through the gift of the Holy Give us the power and freedom raising him to live and reign, God confi rmed It was taught in Jesus’ time that those who Spirit, empowers Jesus’ followers to begin to through your Holy Spirit and completed the witness which Jesus bore listen to the Torah (God’s Law) and put its embody that same grace in their lives and to live daily in the integrity of that grace to God on earth, reasserted claim over the teachings into practice by doing good works, relationships. so that we may be true to our calling whole of creation, pardoned sinners, and build on good ground. But here we have as people who make a diff erence made in Jesus a representative beginning of a Jesus exclaiming, “Anyone who hears and Talk about for Jesus in this age. new order of righteousness and love. To God obeys my teachings…” Amen in Christ all people are called to respond in God’s grace is not only expressed in the What is the best recent example of Grace faith. (Th e Basis of Union, Paragraph 3) teachings of Jesus, it also reverberates through that you have read or heard about? Share it Blessing Th is divine calling has appeared to us his healings and exorcisms, his forgiveness with the group. personally in Jesus and has taken shape in of off enders, his partying with outcasts and From your life experience talk about which Ask someone in the group to off er the his personal call: to be converted, to take a ‘sinners’ and his relationships with the poor of the teachings of Jesus you have found to blessing. diff erent course from the one that we have and marginalised. In all Jesus’ encounters we be most wise and helpful. been on, since the kingdom of God is now encounter the embodiment of God’s love Where do you see grace embodied in near. Th erefore for those who have not heard and valuing of all people. the life and teachings of Jesus? Share some

Week 3 - Grace and Forgiveness Lenten Studies 2006 Agents of Grace

Opening prayer man! When you begged for mercy, I said you that those who have been abused should How can we hold the pain of the hurt in Ask one person in the group to lead the did not have to pay back a cent. Don’t you love their enemies but not lose sight of the tension with a commitment to forgive? prayer with group members reading together think you should show pity to someone else, fact that they need to survive in the midst of the words in bold print. as I did to you?” Th e king was so angry that those enemies. So What? he ordered the offi cial to be tortured until he Th is implies that forgiveness that emerges Read could pay back everything he owed. Th at is from grace aids and strengthens a person’s If your faith community was to begin to how my Father in heaven will treat you, if ability to heal and empowers them to radically express grace through forgiveness Peter came up to the Lord and asked, “How you don’t forgive each of my followers with confront the originators of abuse, pain, hurt where would you start and what would make many times should I forgive someone who all your heart. (Matthew 18: 21-35) CEV or distress. Forgiveness moves us beyond the it diffi cult? Talk about relationships inside does something wrong to me? Is seven times Th e Uniting Church acknowledges sense of victimhood and helps us see both the community as well as relationships with enough?” Jesus answered: Not just seven that Christ has commanded his Church ourselves and those who have harmed us as those beyond the community. times, but seventy times seven! to proclaim the Gospel both in words and recipients of the grace of God. Th is story will show you what the kingdom in the two visible acts of Baptism and the Th is is echoed in the story of Jesus’ Prayer of heaven is like: One day a king decided to Lord’s Supper. Christ himself acts in and crucifi xion. He understood that he was call in his offi cials and ask them to give an through everything that the Church does living among those who were his enemies Beloved, faithful and enduring God account of what they owed him. As he was in obedience to his commandment: it is and sought to kill him, yet he did not take We confess our times of struggle and doing this, one offi cial was brought in who Christ who by the gift of the Spirit confers the role of victim. Rather he took the role disbelief, when we are asked to do the owed him fi fty million silver coins. But he the forgiveness, the fellowship, the new life of one who demonstrates grace even in the impossible. didn’t have any money to pay what he owed. and the freedom which the proclamation face of death. We hear from you that we are forgiven Th e king ordered him to be sold, along with and actions promise; and it is Christ who Jesus’ admonition at the end of this story and yet we can hardly forgive ourselves, his wife and children and all he owned, in awakens, purifi es and advances in people refl ects the reality that if we do not recognise let alone each other. order to pay the debt. the faith and hope in which alone such the interconnectedness of the victim and the Lord, you ask us to journey with you Th e offi cial got down on his knees and benefi ts can be accepted. (Th e Basis of Union, abuser, we will fi nd ourselves in torment. into places beyond rules and formulas, began begging, “Have pity on me, and I will Paragraph 6) Th ose unhealed moments where forgiveness and into a life that comes with the pay you every cent I owe!” Th e king felt sorry Th e angels of God hold their breath to see has not occurred become our own prisons. understanding of eternal forgiveness, grace for him and let him go free. He even told which way we will choose to go. (CS Lewis) Th e Basis of Union points us to the and freedom. the offi cial that he did not have to pay back sacraments of baptism and communion We can hardly believe our ears, the money. Reflection: which remind us that we live in grace of as our struggles to live in such grace so As the offi cial was leaving, he happened forgiveness. Th e concept of forgiveness is often fail. to meet another offi cial, who owed him a Jesus’ answer to Peter’s question leaves us essential to the ability to engage in fellowship And yet Lord, we hold tentatively to the hundred silver coins. So he grabbed the man with the challenge of living out grace and and to encounter the new life and freedom, understanding that you have given us life by the throat. He started choking him and forgiveness. Every time we pray the Lord’s which is promised through Christ. in all its fullness, said, “Pay me what you owe!” Prayer we make a commitment to God to and to the incredible reality that through Th e man got down on his knees and “forgive those who sin against us”, and yet Talk about Christ, began begging, “Have pity on me, and I will off ering forgiveness is often the most diffi cult our sins are always forgiven. pay you back.” But the fi rst offi cial refused to thing to do. What for you is the most impressive act of Th anks be to God. have pity. Instead, he went and had the other Jesus story off ers forgiveness as a way of forgiveness you have read or heard about? Amen. offi cial put in jail until he could pay what he life rather than a rule to obey. We experienced Share it with the group. owed. forgiveness and grace and may long to off er What do you fi nd are the easiest things to Blessing When some other offi cials found out what it to others, but how does a person who has forgive? What are the most diffi cult? had happened, they felt sorry for the man been badly abused, or suff ered pain, hurt What do you fi nd most diffi cult to seek Ask someone in the group to off er the who had been put in jail. Th en they told the and distress, forgive the abuser and the forgiveness for? blessing. king what had happened. Th e king called the institutions that support the abuse? People say, “I’ll forgive but never forget!” fi rst offi cial back in and said, “You’re an evil Th eologian Karen Lebacqz suggested 10 Journey, March 2006 Week 4 - Grace and Diff erence Lenten Studies 2006 Agents of Grace

Opening prayer Peter said, “Th ese Gentiles have been centuries of confl ict, mistrust and hatred. challenging and/or helpful in the declaration given the Holy Spirit, just as we have! I am Th is meeting between Peter, Cornelius Peter made in the home of Cornelius? Ask one person in the group to lead the certain that no one would dare stop us from and the Holy Spirit was a turning point Henri Nouwen’s relationship with Adam prayer with group members reading together baptizing them.” Peter ordered them to be which changed the whole course of church had a profound impact on his life. Has there the words in bold print. baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and history. It was now clear that God’s family been an “Adam” in your life, someone very they asked him to stay on for a few days. was open to all who would join it, regardless diff erent from yourself, whose impact on you Read (Acts 10: 34-48) CEV of race, colour, language or culture. has been just as radical and life-changing? (Th e Uniting Church) believes that Cornelius and his family were gathered Share this with the group. Peter then said: Now I am certain that God Christians in Australia are called to bear into the Christian community, and became treats all people alike. God is pleased with witness to a unity of faith and life in Christ people of the resurrection. We do not hear So what? everyone who worships him and does right, which transcends cultural and economic, of Cornelius again, yet his story remains to no matter what nation they come from. Th is national and racial boundaries, and to this remind us that the faith he embraced, and How can the grace of God shape your is the same message that God gave to the end the Uniting Church commits itself to into which he was baptized, is the faith we community of faith’s response to the people of Israel, when he sent Jesus Christ, seek special relationships with Churches in continue to affi rm and declare today. diff erence and diversity it experiences within the Lord of all, to off er peace to them. Asia and the Pacifi c. Th e Uniting Church Th is real-life story demonstrates what itself and beyond itself? You surely know what happened declares its desire to enter more deeply Jesus meant when he said, “Love one everywhere in Judea. It all began in Galilee into the faith and mission of the Church in another as I have loved you.” To be true to Prayer after John had told everyone to be baptized. Australia, by working together and seeking what Jesus asks of us, we too have to identify God gave the Holy Spirit and power to Jesus union with other Churches. (Th e Basis of and confront the barriers that separate us God of love and grace, from Nazareth. He was with Jesus, as he went Union, Paragraph 2) from others: fear, prejudice, judgemental and forgive us when our fears, intolerance, or around doing good and healing everyone In 1985, Henri Nouwen abandoned critical attitudes, an unforgiving spirit, and indiff erence create barriers between ourselves who was under the power of the devil. We academic life and went to live at “Daybreak” anger. We are called to repent and pray for and others. all saw what Jesus did both in Israel and in in Canada, a community for the severely God’s grace to help us change our attitudes Help us to embrace a new and radical the city of Jerusalem. Jesus was put to death disabled. “Daybreak assigned Nouwen one and our behaviour. understanding of your grace and purpose. on a cross. But three days later, God raised person to look after in particular: Adam. Just as Jesus took the initiative in loving Transform our hearts and minds today, him to life and let him be seen. Not everyone Adam was the weakest and most disabled us, just as Peter took the initiative in going that we too might become willing participants saw him. He was seen only by us, who ate person in the community…he could not to Cornelius, so we have to decide to take in the coming of your Kingdom and drank with him after he was raised from speak, dress or undress himself, could not that fi rst step that will break down the into the life of our world and time. death. We were the ones God chose to tell walk alone or eat without help...Yet Nouwen barriers separating us from others, and make Lord, your way is the way of love. others about him. gradually learned that he, not Adam, was the reconciliation and relationship possible. Inspire and encourage us to love one another. God told us to announce clearly to the chief benefi ciary in this strange, misfi tted Help us to be open-hearted, people that Jesus is the one he has chosen relationship…From Adam he learned that Talk about generous and hospitable, especially with to judge the living and the dead. Every one ‘what makes us human is not our mind those who are diff erent from ourselves. of the prophets has said that all who have but our heart, not our ability to think but Refl ect on the personal, vocational, cultural, May your Spirit break down the barriers that faith in Jesus will have their sins forgiven in our ability to love.’” (Philip Yancey Soul or theological diversity represented in the separate us, and make us one in Jesus Christ his name. Survivor) membership of your group. How could any our Lord. While Peter was still speaking, the Holy diff erences you have identifi ed potentially be Amen. Spirit took control of everyone who was Reflection sources of confl ict and division? listening. Some Jewish followers of the What attitudes and behaviours have you Blessing Lord had come with Peter, and they were Peter’s radical declaration was made in the consciously abandoned or rejected over the surprised that the Holy Spirit had been home of a gentile, a Roman Centurion. Prior years because you have identifi ed them as Ask someone in the group to off er the given to Gentiles. Now they were hearing to this event, the focus for the early Christian being contrary to the spirit and teaching of blessing. Gentiles speaking unknown languages and church had been on Jews alone. Th ere was Jesus? praising God. a great gulf between Jews and Gentiles, What do you personally fi nd most

weeks of ace that you can rent from your movies. MOVIES e the themeing of Lent. Gr istian” h explor to watch durecessarily “Chr ve movies whicor DVD n VHS ese are not n Here are fi d that th local video store ratingo an 5 Please note the

Changing Lanes Pay it Forward Dances with Wolves Chocolat Th e story of what happens Gospel of John Sometimes the Lt. John Dunbar, exiled A woman and her one day in New York simplest idea can make to a remote western Civil daughter open a when a young lawyer and For God loved the world the biggest diff erence War outpost, befriends chocolate shop in a small a businessman share a so much – the story of – a young boy fi nds a Indians fi nds himself French village and shake small automobile accident Jesus’ life as told in John’s way to make the world letting go of all he knew. up the rigid morality of and both fi nd their lives Gospel. (PG13) a better place. (M) (M) the community. (MA15+) set in new directions. (M)

Journey, March 2006 11 Week 5 - Communities of Grace Lenten Studies 2006 Agents of Grace Opening prayer vineyard. Th ey said, “Th e ones who were Th e idea of grace is confronting because it So What? hired last worked for only one hour. But you reminds us that, just as Israel did not invent Ask one person in the group to lead the paid them the same that you did us. And we itself, neither did or does the church. In the What “words and deeds” would be required prayer with group members reading together worked in the hot sun all day long!” New Testament, even if the word “grace” of your community of faith in order to clearly the words in bold print. Th e owner answered one of them, “Friend, does not appear on the lips of Jesus, it is used declare and demonstrate God’s grace? I didn’t cheat you. I paid you exactly what to summarise his teachings, his death, the Read we agreed on. Take your money now and go! entire drama of his mission, and the content Prayer What business is it of yours if I want to pay of the apostles’ preaching. As Jesus was telling what the kingdom of them the same that I paid you? Don’t I have In other words, the very event which calls God of grace, heaven would be like, he said: Early one the right to do what I want with my own the church into being (the life, death and you surprised Israel by calling it morning a man went out to hire some workers money? Why should you be jealous, if I want resurrection of Jesus) fl ows entirely from into a covenant with you. for his vineyard. After he had agreed to pay to be generous?” God’s grace. As a community of this grace, You surprised the world them the usual amount for a day’s work, he Jesus then said, “So it is. Everyone who the church has no intrinsic right to exist. As by sending your Son to redeem it. sent them off to his vineyard. is now fi rst will be last, and everyone who is gracious communities, therefore, churches We are surprised that you About nine that morning, the man saw last will be fi rst.” (Matthew 20:1-16 CEV) ought to be communities which are constantly have included even us in the church. some other people standing in the market …. so that the congregation of Christ’s surprised by their own existence. Th ey will Help us never to recklessly cast away your with nothing to do. He said he would pay people may again and again be reminded of express that surprise in the relationships grace, them what was fair, if they would work in his the grace which justifi es them by faith. (Basis that exist amongst their members and, as but to live by it and demonstrate it to the vineyard. So they went. of Union, Paragraph 10) Jesus points out in this Bible story, they world in word and deed. At noon and again about three in the Th e community of saints…is a community should pause before grumbling about the Amen. afternoon he returned to the market. And of men and women who have genuinely other unlikely people that God calls into the each time he made the same agreement encountered the precious grace of God, community. Blessing with others who were loafi ng around with and who walk worthily of the gospel by not Detached from this sense of surprise, nothing to do. casting that grace recklessly away. (Dietrich the church’s proclamation of God’s grace, Ask someone in the group to off er the Finally, about fi ve in the afternoon the Bonhoeff er) whether it be through word or deed, will blessing. man went back and found some others easily slip into legalism. standing there. He asked them, “Why have Reflection Th e framers of Th e Basis of Union did you been standing here all day long doing well to remind us that God’s grace is not nothing?” Like so many words in the Christian something self-evident: we are to be “again Textual notes “Because no one has hired us,” they vocabulary, ‘grace’ has been sentimentalised, and again reminded” of it. Unless otherwise stated, scripture answered. Th en he told them to go work in trivialised and, at worst, emptied of its quotations in these resources are from the his vineyard. specifi cally Jewish and Christian meanings. Talk about Contemporary English Version copyright Th at evening the owner of the vineyard For Dietrich Bonhoeff er however walking © 1991, 1992, 1995 by American Bible told the man in charge of the workers to call worthily of the gospel of grace meant living a What have been the signifi cant ‘grace tests’ Society, used by Permission. Th e CEV them in and give them their money. He also life of costly discipleship and ending that life for your community of faith? is an American Bible Society translation told the man to begin with the ones who dangling from a hangman’s noose. So, even Which biblical images and stories have and is readily available from bookshops or were hired last. When the workers arrived, as it reassures us of God’s love, the idea of most shaped your understanding of God’s the Bible Society. Th e text is easily read the ones who had been hired at fi ve in the grace can be quite confronting. grace? by school age children, second language afternoon were given a full day’s pay. In the Old Testament, especially the How do you fi nd yourself reacting to Jesus’ readers and those who prefer the more Th e workers who had been hired fi rst Prophets, the idea of grace is tied up with story of the “Labourers in the Vineyard”? contemporary form. Th e CEV is not a thought they would be given more than the God’s freely chosen and steadfast covenant How would you say that your community paraphrase. It is an accurate and faithful others. But when they were given the same, with Israel and the demand this placed upon of faith has a sense of being “surprised by translation of the original manuscripts. they began complaining to the owner of the Israel to respond to God in kind. grace”? Th e original text of Th e Basis of Union was the document around which the union of three older traditions, Congregational, Methodist and Presbyterian, came into being in 1977. While the original text Other small group study options was fi nalised in 1971, where it is quoted in these resources the 1992 edition is used. If you have used these Lenten Studies and would like some other resources to work through as a group why not consider these options? Th e Basis of Union was prepared at a time when the desire for gender-inclusive God’s Word, God’s World, Towards the 11th Spirit of Life by Rev Dr Ian Price. Th ese fi ve language was only just emerging. By the Assembly, is a series of four short resources studies seek to explore God’s gift of life as 1990s some people were fi nding aspects designed for use as discussion starters a positive experience of relating personally of the language of the Basis to be rather for small groups, congregations and with God. Th ey will help the group explore curious, and at certain points jarring and faith communities who are interested in life as a good gift from God; establish order even alienating. Th e Assembly Standing celebrating and exploring ways they can in the midst of chaos; experience mercy and Committee therefore approved the live out the mission to which God calls power through the Spirit’s presence in us; publication of the 1992 edition, which us. Print quality copies of the discussion and conclude with a focus on the possibility incorporates relatively conservative sheets can also be purchased through the of knowing wholeness within. changes to the language of the Basis, while Assembly’s publisher MediaCom (1800 seeking to retain its meaning http://nat. 811 311). Th e worksheets are being sold uca.org.au/basisofunion/Basis1992.htm. in sets of 4 (any combination) at $3.00 Th rough Eyes Of Love by Rev Dr Ian Price. Uniting in Worship 2 is a new set per set (incl GST) and $2.50 per set (incl Five studies that explore the person and of worship resources released in the GST) for purchases of 4 or more sets plus impact of Christ on fi ve key personalities Uniting Church in 2005 which gives local P&H. Alternatively you can download of the New Testament - Peter, John, Mary congregations scope to develop worship them for free from the Assembly website Magdalene, Luke and Paul. Each of these relevant to their own setting. Th e book http://assembly.uca.org.au. sources of scripture and leadership provide and accompanying CD-ROM provide unique insights into the way Jesus changes range of worship services and resource life and off ers hope. templates for congregations to use for All the Ian Price studies are available the production of local booklets. Uniting from MediaCom 1800 811 311 or in Worship 2 can be ordered through the http://mediacom.mediacomonline. Uniting Church in Australia’s publisher, org.au $9.00 per book or $8.00 for ten MediaCom 1800 811 311 or http:// or more. mediacom.mediacomonline.org.au. Looking for more options? Try Duncan Lenten Studies 2006 A Sensual Faith by Rev Dr Ian Price. Th is Macleod’s excellent Educating Christians series of fi ve studies sets out to explore the website, an A to Z of resources for Writers: Malcolm Coombes, ways we experience God through our senses. Christian education in Uniting Church Graham Beattie, Heather den Houting, Drawing on some of the great traditions of Wisdom’s Way by Rev Dr Ian Price. It is said congregations. Th is site includes detailed David Pitman, Geoff Th ompson the faith, the studies lead the group through that we “have too much knowledge but too reviews of small group and Christian Project Coordinator: Duncan Macleod an intriguing array of experiences and group little wisdom these days”. Th is set of fi ve education resources. http://educating Editor: Bruce Mullan discussions studies by Ian Price explores some of the key christians.unitingchurch.org.au. Layout: Osker Lau biblical ideas about wisdom. 12 Journey, March 2006 What the UCA says

Children in detention Abortion - Compassion hese are statements from the Uniting Church in Australia - Uniting Church calls and balance responding to contemporary issues in Australian culture. for immediate release “Th e Uniting Church believes T Journey stresses that these are not the full documents. Th is Th e Uniting Church has again that human life is God given from is a brief sample of the standings the Uniting Church has presented to called for the immediate release the beginning. We believe that the public. More information can be obtained from http://assembly. of all children from Australia’s all human beings are made in the uca.org.au/news/mediareleases/index.htm. detention centres. image of God and that we are UnitingJustice Australia called to respect the sacredness of Who we are? National Director Rev Elenie life. Th e kinds of values that hold us together are a commitment Poulos, said she was outraged “We reject two extreme positions: to the Scriptures as the word of God and a passion for justice and the Government has ignored that abortion should never be social responsibility for all people in our community. We aim to be the Human Rights and Equal available; and that abortion should an inclusive community that holds together diff erent views, cultures Opportunity Commission Report be regarded as simply another and expressions of faith through the unity given in Jesus Christ. As into Children in Detention and its medical procedure. one of the largest non-government providers of community services recommendation that all children “It is important that women in all parts of Australia, we are committed to refl ecting the love and be released from Australia’s have the space they need to make grace of God in caring for people, in advocating for those with special immigration detention centres by an appropriate decision after needs and for the equitable and appropriate provision of social services. today. careful consideration. Th e current (http://assembly.uca.org.au/whoweare/UCA.htm#topofpage) “Th is is a Government which abortion laws allow women to do claims to be supportive of families this in whatever circumstances and children yet its policies are they face. Refugees - Treat people humanely destroying children’s lives. Th ere “Women must be free to discuss is absolutely no excuse for robbing their situation before they make a and responsibly children of their innocence.” decision. Th e Church needs to be Th e Moderator of the Uniting Uniting Church President, Rev a place where such discussion can Church in Queensland Rev Dr Indonesia have been moved to West Dr Dean Drayton said he hoped happen. We can off er spiritual, David Pitman has released a Papua to reinforce the notion that today’s protest would help to end moral and pastoral support to a statement regarding the arrival it is a genuine part of that nation. the detention of children once and woman at this time. of a boatload of West Papuans In the process the West Papuan for all. “Whilst we encourage our understood to be seeking asylum in people have suff ered greatly.” “Th e Uniting Church opposes Ministers to remind people of the Australia. Dr Pitman indicated that the the policy of arbitrary and sacredness of life, the Church’s role “Most people will be aware that Uniting Church will be monitoring indefi nite detention of all asylum should be to off er care and support a boat carrying about 40 refugees this matter closely. seekers, especially children. leading up to and following a from West Papua has landed on the “It is our conviction that the “Any Government that would decision, not stand in judgment.” coast of Cape York. Initial media Australian Government is obligated allow children to suff er physical Rev Dr Dean Drayton, President reports suggest that the Indonesian to treat these people humanely and and mental abuse in a detention (3 February 2005) Government is attempting to label responsibly, in accordance with the centre is eff ectively sanctioning these folk as political dissidents,” commitments made last year. violence against them for its own RU486 said Dr Pitman. “It is also essential that our political gain.” drug or procedure. Public policy “We need to remember that Government continue to actively (10 June 2004) “It is our view that the current on the matter should depend on West Papua is a country annexed pursue conversations with the campaign against RU486 confuses scientifi c evidence as to the safety by Indonesia with minimal protest Indonesian Government with medical, moral and political and eff ectiveness of the drug. Th is from the international community, a view to ending human rights Immigration policy issues. As the Uniting Church issue should be viewed separately and subject to military occupation. abuses in West Papua.” - Invitation-only visa understands it, the issue is whether to a debate on the moral and ethical “In recent years thousands (Journey, 19 January 2006) is a rotten deal or not this particular drug is safe issues of the abortion procedure of people from other parts of to be released for use in a country itself. Th e Uniting Church has expressed where abortion is legally available. “Th e Uniting Church has no frustration and disappointment Th is is a decision that should be unifi ed national position on the with the regulations for the new made by the Th erapeutic Goods abortion procedure…We respect Bridging (Removal Pending) Administration using sound the rights and opinions of others Visa which gives the Minister for medical evidence and advice. involved in this debate; and we Immigration absolute power and “It is our belief that RU486 recognise that within our own off ers no rights of appeal for people should not be made an exception church, there will also be a variety of who take up this visa. from this independent process views. However, we do not believe National Director of purely due to its application as this current debate about the use of UnitingJustice Australia Rev an abortifacient. Termination of a particular drug should be used as Elenie Poulos, said that while the a pregnancy is legal in Australia, a plebiscite on the broader issue of visa is an acknowledgement by the however fraught politically or abortion.” Government that the indefi nite morally. As such, the drug should “From a letter to the Senate detention of asylum seekers is be evaluated by proper trials in the from Rev Elenie Poulos - National unacceptable, the Department of same way as any other therapeutic Director UnitingJustice Australia Immigration and Multicultural (2 February 2006) and Indigenous Aff airs (DIMIA) has again failed to demonstrate compassion or decency. “We are very concerned that Violence against women people can only apply on invitation - Uniting Church seeks elimination from the Minister. On what grounds will people be invited Uniting Church President, the all its forms. Sexual violence is and on what grounds will they be Rev Dr Dean Drayton, has urged a sin against God and against denied? Australians to wear a white ribbon humanity and at its root is the “Th ere is no right of on Friday, 25 November (2005) in practice of inequality between administrative appeal in relation to support of the International Day the sexes. We must ensure that this visa and it could well be used by for the Elimination of Violence a concerted community eff ort the Minister and DIMIA to keep Against Women (IDEVAW). is made to address this endemic people locked up indefi nitely on Dr Drayton said; “Th e Uniting violence against women.” the grounds of undisclosed issues Church will continue to support (24 November 2005) of ‘character’,” Rev Poulos said. the elimination of violence in (13 May, 2005) What the UCA says... continued page 14

Journey, March 2006 13 What the UCA says... continued

Stolen wages - Uniting Church rejects deadline Th e Uniting Church in Australia 2005. has called on the Queensland “Th is deadline imposed by Government to extend the deadline the Queensland Government for Stolen Wage claimants. for reparations is suggestive of Uniting Church President, Rev an administration increasingly Dr Dean Drayton and the National becoming misaligned to their Administrator of the Uniting responsibilities in improving Church Aboriginal and Islander Indigenous outcomes and I feel Christian Congress (UAICC) the saddened by their resolve,” Rev Rev Shayne Blackman said they Blackman said. supported the moves by Th e Human Dr Drayton said the Church has Rights and Equal Opportunity long called for practical measures Commission and Australians for and committed leadership on Native Title and Reconciliation to Indigenous issues as a way to help oppose the imminent reparations overcome the legacy of our history. off er deadline from the Queensland (9 November 2005) Government on the 31st December

Anti-terror laws - Australia is on a dangerous path

Th e Federal Government’s anti- judicial sanction is out of step terror legislation puts Australia on with community expectations of Unemployment Industrial Relations Poverty - call to make a dangerous path according to the accountability and transparency… - Churches are - Reforms set to hurt it a top priority Uniting Church President, the Rev Th e Government must ensure committed to jobless workers Dr Dean Drayton. that this legislation is not open UnitingCare Australia is part of a “While every Government has a to abuse.” Th e President of the Uniting Th e Uniting Church has called on contingent of Church based service responsibility to protect its citizens, Rev Drayton said the Church Church, the Rev Dr Dean Drayton the Federal Government to rethink providers that have called on the these new laws send a clear message was also concerned that these new has responded to claims by the its approach to further deregulation re-elected Coalition government that the only way to do this is to laws could threaten freedom of Australian Chamber of Commerce of the Industrial Relations system. to make the most of Australia’s erode people’s rights. Th ey have the association and speech. “We are and Industry that the Churches UnitingJustice Australia Na- economic stability and prosperity potential to create an atmosphere especially concerned that these were ignoring jobless Australians. tional Director Rev Elenie Poulos by committing to a National Anti- of fear and distrust in Australia. laws will result in suppression “Th e Uniting Church has called on the Government to Poverty Plan. “We are concerned the of peaceful activism, religious been one of the most outspoken protect the wages and conditions UnitingCare, Anglicare Government has failed to allow freedom and expression, and advocates of the poor and the of Australia’s lowest paid workers. Australia, the Brotherhood of adequate time for public discussion may encourage discrimination unemployed in Australia and we “We must remember that the St Laurence, Catholic Welfare and debate about the proposed against members of the Islamic believe that stable employment is purpose of a strong economy is to Australia and the Australian laws. community.” one of the best ways to alleviate help Australians access secure and Council of Social Service called on “Preventative detention without (18 October 2005) poverty and disadvantage. equitable standards of living. Th e the government and all politicians “We have advocated to labour market is not like any other returning to Canberra to create government for many years about market. People are not commodities a well resourced National Anti- the need to create more jobs, but in the service of greater profi ts and Poverty Plan to help the poorest not at any cost. In 1994, in a public should not be exploited.” Australians. statement about employment (26 May 2005) (18 October 2004) we said that the goal is paid employment for all who want it, at adequate wages to ensure that all employees can aff ord to meet Why the Uniting the human needs of themselves response to our neighbour and and their families, and with some Church speaks on the world. reward for competence’.” social and political In James 1:26-27 we are (13 October 2005) issues invited to put our words into practice and care for those who Child Care - Families HIV Funding - Church Th e UCA off ers comment are orphaned and widowed. In need flexible, welcomes boost on social issues as part of our today’s context we understand involvement and commitment to these words to mean that affordable options Uniting Church National the community. As we proclaim the grace of our compassion Flexible, aff ordable child care President Rev Dr Dean Drayton the Christian message in the must extend to those who are should be a priority of the next welcomed a doubling of Australian political arena, we proclaim a marginalised and dispossessed Federal Government to ensure all Government funding to treat and vision of God’s world - a world of in our community. families are able to balance the prevent HIV/AIDS. compassion and justice founded We are each called to be needs of work and family life. “We applaud the Government on being a common humanity, messengers in this world. Rev Dr Dean Drayton, said for committing an extra $300 loved by God. Personal transformation is the Church wanted to see a child- million to combat the virus in Jesus preached about the love essential in this process. Only centred approach to children’s the Asia-Pacifi c region – a region and deep commitment we are with the energy and guidance services that focused on what is in where last year 1 million people to have for each other that God of the Holy Spirit can we truly the best interest of children and were infected and half a million expects from us. Jesus explained work as Christians in the world. recognised their developmental, people died. that acting to serve those who Th e message of God is real in the spiritual and social needs. “While infections have been are hungry, thirsty, strangers, world as well as in our hearts. Dr Drayton said families relatively stable in Australia, the naked, sick and imprisoned, is Th e call to justice and deserved real answers on how each Uniting Church has constantly an action of love and respect for righteousness is a fundamental of the major parties would ensure made the point that Australia has God (Matthew 25: 33-36). message of the Bible, from Amos’ child care is more aff ordable, within an obligation to the rest of the Jesus’ greatest commandment declaration of the transformed close proximity, and available to all world, especially our neighbours in to us was to love God and to community (Amos 5:24), to the families at the times they need it. the Pacifi c. love our neighbour (Matthew requirements in Micah, to do (27 September 2004) “Two of our National Directors 22: 37-39). Th ese verses allow justice, love constantly and walk wrote to the Prime Minister late us to see how strongly Jesus was humbly with God (Micah 6:8). last year urging for an increase in committed to all of humanity in [http://assembly.uca.org.au/ Keep up with the latest the level of government funding to his proclamation of redemption unitingjustice/resourcearchive/ www.journeyonline.com.au combat HIV/AIDS.” and forgiveness, and also in his elections/election2001/ (12 July 2004) expectation of our compassionate election2001.pdf ]

14 Journey, March 2006 Deeper wells bring relief

By Cath Taylor implications for relationships hen the heavens fi nally that are harder to repair.” open and the earth Perhaps this is one of the Wtips back its head to reasons why Frontier Services drink, all of creation breathes a Remote Area Families Service sigh of relief. In front of televi- and Family Carers are so highly sion screens all around the country, valued in the areas in which they men, women and children smile work. and nod skywards, and news of the “Sometimes we drive away drought dries up across front pages from a visit feeling really quite all across the nation. But it doesn’t helpless,” Davida acknowledges, end there… refl ecting on RAFS workers’ Frontier Services Remote Area visits to stations to run playgroups Families Service Coordinator or socialise with mothers and Davida Melkshan said that most children. Photo courtesy of Frontier Services Remote Area Family Service people are familiar enough with “Th ese are the intangible, the images of drought-cracked almost invisible issues you lateral, creative thinkers who “Th at was really scary,” Lorraine Lorraine speaks of the diff erence earth and desolate cattle but harder observe when you spend time develop relationships and genuinely says. “Th ere’s a waterhole here that it makes to have the RAFS to measure, and certainly less with women consistently. delight in human contact, and long in all of history has never been teams visit the property, bringing interesting to capture on fi lm, are “It’s hard for people to after the rains have come and gone, empty. For a day during 2002, it resources for her preschoolers and the social impacts - the eff ects of articulate those things to it’s those deeper wells that will dried up completely. We were a listening ear for the adults. drought at the personal level. strangers, but when you’re in continue to bring relief. looking at having to truck in water “Th e RAFS teams are just really “When the rain comes, the their homes, meeting them Lorraine Kath with her husband just for things like showers and special people,” Lorraine says. “Any stories in the media about the for coff ee, playing with their Henning, daughters Leah and toilets. time we are in town we drop in for impact of drought slide off the children, you pick it up just by Cassandra, and son Jacob, are “My children complete distance a chat, and it’s good to know that front pages and are replaced with being with them.” managers on a company property education through School of the when they come to visit, you can things that are more relevant,” she Remote Area Families Service at Mt Leonard in Western Air and we’re really happy with it. talk to them about anything at all. says. have direct contact with families Queensland. “I cook for the staff when there “Th e RAFS teams are loved by “Unless you’re faced with it every on stations three or four times a Th e nearest centre to the property are extras on the property, do the everyone.” day, you forget that the human face year, but also maintain constancy is Birdsville, 170 kilometres away, book work, gardening and was A longer version of this article was of drought continues to be serious and contact through phone and at the height of the drought teaching prep via distance ed for a published as “Deeper Waters” in even after the rains come and calls, newsletters and informal the property ran only 400 head year there, so it’s pretty busy, but I Frontier News, February 2006 even after things pick up in the meetings in town. of cattle on an area of 1.9 million wouldn’t have it any other way.” www.frontierservices.org. material sense, there are long term RAFS Team members are acres.

Research puts rural churches under the microscope Pioneer nun fter six years of As a lifelong committed painstaking research into Christian and accredited Uniting is key speaker Athe signifi cance of the Church Lay Preacher, Dr Mitchell Christian church in an Australian said that he needed to make sure for UnitingCare rural community Dr Rol Mitchell that people felt free to criticise reports that the church is not aspects of the church so went Outspoken Catholic Nun and irrelevant but rather is right at the to great lengths to maintain Associate Professor University of heart of rural communities. professional neutrality in the Western Australia Sr Veronica Dr Mitchell and his wife research and data analysis. Brady will be a keynote speaker relocated for eighteen months to Dr Mitchell found that 68 per at the UnitingCare Australia a small country town in western cent people undertook 84,000 and Uniting Missions Network NSW where he immersed himself hours of voluntary work each year National Conference to be held in the community to research his in the community. in Brisbane in March. PhD thesis. Th e work was carried out by Born in 1929, Veronica Since graduating at the age of 70 regular churchgoers who were just Brady became one of the fi rst as Charles Sturt University’s oldest 15 per cent of the community. Australian nuns to teach in a ever PhD student Dr Mitchell Dr Mitchell has published his university, broadcast on radio has released Country Life and the research in a book Country LIfe and join in socio-political Church as the published version of and the Church which he hopes will debate. his thesis. be useful to ministers and others She has spoken out publicly Th e town he chose had 3000 interested in the rural church. against the Vatican stance on residents and was typically rural, “In spite of the erosive infl uences abortion, homosexuality and with a declining population of secularisation and rural recession, contraception, and has been suff ering the eff ects of drought. the church is still a signifi cant involved in the Aboriginal “Yet it had 11 active churches contributor to the quality of rural rights movement and the anti- including two charismatic life,” said Dr Mitchell. uranium mining lobby. Pentecostal churches which had “It was the beating heart of this Other speakers will include grown signifi cantly in the past community, but it wasn’t obvious former Uniting Church decade,” Dr Mitchell said. until I started looking for it. President Rev Professor James After initial scepticism and Country Life and the Church is Haire, Executive Director suspicion from some residents published by Glenlea and is available from of the Australian Centre for Dr Mitchell managed to take Dr Rol Mitchell, 28 Western View Drive, Christianity and Culture. a comprehensive survey which Albury, NSW, 2640 for $39.00 post paid The conference will be held 26–28 showed that the church was email rmitchel@postoffi ce.csu.edu.au March in Brisbane. Dr Rol Mitchell researched the contribution made by the church in making signifi cant contributions in Contact Sally Brown 07 3201 2808 or country towns. a number of community areas. visit www.nationalconference2006.com

Journey, March 2006 15 to do the work, the comparisons are inevitably, at times, a tad tokenistic. Religious allegiance aside, I Reviews enjoyed the profi ciency of Rabbi Gillman’s writing. Just don’t grab it as a substitute for Every Day With Th e Future of Jesus – Th e Jesus. Boyer Lectures Emma-Kate Moore By Dr Peter Jensen ABC Books 2005 Walk the Line RRP $22.95 Directed by James Mangold Starring Joaquin Phoenix and What is the place of Jesus in our culture and memory? For this Reese Witherspoon most recent Boyer lecture series Rated M for drug use, the ABC chose Jensen, outspoken moderate themes, infrequent conservative and controversial coarse language Anglican theologian, to address Brokeback Mountain Jesus’ place in contemporary Walk the Line is a great movie Directed by Ang Lee society. Jesus looks invisible, as four Th e Jewish Approach to God: about the power of soulful music Main cast Heath Ledger, Jake Australian academics nonchalantly A Brief Introduction for in the 1950s and 1960s, describing Gyllenhaal, Linda Cardellini, quote Abraham Lincoln, “a house Christians the lives and romance of country Anna Faris, Anne Hathaway, divided against itself cannot stand”. By Rabbi Neil Gillman singers Johnny Cash and June Michelle Williams, Randy (Lincoln was quoting Mark 3:25) Carter. Cash (played by Joaquin Affl uenza. When Too Much is Jewish Lights Publishing Quaid In seven readable chapters RRP $29.95 Phoenix) married Carter (played Never Enough Jensen explores the transformation by Reese Witherspoon) in 1968 Rated M for moderate coarse By Clive Hamilton and of Christian thought from the and they died, months apart, in language, moderate sex Richard Denniss revitalisation movement that Ever thought of becoming a 2003. scenes, moderate violence. Allen & Unwin arose in response to the misery, liberal Jew? Rabbi Neil Gillman Th e movie pivots on Cash’s RRP $24.95 chaos, fear and brutality of life in sets smartly forth his modern memory of his brother, Jack, who Feeling I should see the movie the Graeco-Roman World to its theology of the nature of God as was killed in a farming accident in fi rst and make my judgments later Once upon a time in our current invisibility. a taster for you in his latest work 1944, and his relationship with his I headed off with a mate to see Western society, people looked While some reviewers have been Th e Jewish Approach to God: A Brief unforgiving father. Brokeback Mountain. Being a pair to Christianity, or at least the dismissive of Jensen’s unashamed Introduction for Christians. Walk the Line is also very much of men going to see this movie was church, to determine truth, right focusing on Christ alone, Jensen Admittedly, religion is not the June Carter’s story; a gospel singer, itself as confronting as the brief sex and wrong. With the onset of the makes this important comment; sort of thing one tends to change songwriter and comedian who scenes both gay and heterosexual in enlightenment, science became the “Fundamentalism is not refuted as often as one’s toothbrush – no lived in a world of judgement what is otherwise an outstanding ultimate arbiter of truth. with a sneer; if it needs refutation matter how good the taster. So, if following two failed marriages and fi lm. Th ese authors argue that in it is refuted by theology.” you’re ever going to read Gillman’s her association with Cash, “the After all the uproar around its today’s world truth, right and In a theological diverse book I think there will have to be Man in Black”. release Brokeback Mountain was not wrong are more and more being community polarised between some other good reasons to pick it Th is is a superb musical bio-pic. as exploitative as I had expected. determined by commercial factors. conservative and progressive, up. I was especially moved by Cash’s While the relationship between the In others words, if something will there is a need to understand the Perhaps you are interested in response to his many fans in prison; main characters oscillates between make a profi t, it is now the “right” underlying thinking which gives understanding some of the age- connecting with their plight out love and lust, the fi lm is more a thing to do. rise to current disagreements. Th e long Jewish wrestling with the of his own struggles with drug moving and heartbreakingly tragic Th is is the worldview that Clive Future of Jesus is a useful starting God of Israel and its bearing upon addiction, sorrow and a perceived drama than a pro-homosexual Hamilton and Richard Denniss point for understanding the today? Perhaps you have been failure to be anywhere as good as statement. set out to expose in their book, basis for authentic conservative wondering about the discrepancies his late brother. Cash’s growth Based on Pulitzer Prize-winner Affl uenza. When Too Much is Never evangelical thought. between God’s popular portrayal as a musician and performer is Annie Proulx’ short story and co- Enough. Th ese two men from the In our rapidly changing social and his appearance in classic watered by these tears. Phoenix adapted by fellow Pulitzer Prize- Australia Institute – a public interest context we have two alternatives: Jewish sources? Or perhaps you and Witherspoon sing all the songs winner Larry McMurtry the script think-tank – pull no punches in to refi ne our faith and practice in are fascinated with the origins of and deserve all the awards that this and dialogue are as understated claiming our whole society is sick the light of what seems inevitable some of the many diff erent ways fi lm attracts. as the magnifi cent Wyoming and with over consumption. around us or to attempt to explain Jewish people have understood and Th is fi lm highlights the Texas scenery is spectacular, With arguments showing the mistakes of the past that have related to God? infl uence of gospel music on the Taiwanese director Ang Lee that doctors are more infl uenced led to our current attitudes. Jensen In Th e Jewish Approach to God direction of country and rock produces an almost melodic by pharmaceutical company does the latter. For example, in Gillman eruditely explains in musical performances and the amalgamation of visual and advertising than scientifi c his last chapter he addresses the simple language the central issues power of music revealed in the narrative elements that, despite the literature; that 25% of British commonly held notion, especially of Jewish theology and philosophy heights, which emerges from the provocative story line, makes this children’s fi rst words will be brand among those controlling the regarding the nature of God. He utter depths, of life. Th is is the fi lm close to a cinematographic names; how we could ever vote for media, that faith is private, both tackles this substantial task through power of Walk the Line; a must-see triumph. tax-cuts for the rich while letting unjustifi able and irrefutable. looking at diff erent metaphors for movie for 2006. Perhaps because of the many health slide; and how we gambled Whether Jensen’s suggestions God in the Jewish scriptures, each Mark Young unanswered questions and a away our vote buying a baby bonus; for re-establishing Jesus in picture telling something more of distinctly non-Hollywood, untidy their argument is compelling and contemporary thought are who God is and the relationship ending Brokeback Mountain has prophetic. compelling, will be a matter for the Jewish people have with him. stayed with me. Every character As I read this book St. Paul’s careful refl ection. Agree or disagree Th ese metaphors include God is outstandingly played and so “secret” to contentment in any with him Th e Future of Jesus is is Echad, God is power, God is believable I could only wonder at situation rang in the back of my defi nitely worth a read. person, God creates, God reveals, the painful consequences the men’s mind (Philippians 4:10-13). Th e Robert Brennan God is nice (sometimes) and God infi delities would reap on each authors are not Christians, but they is not nice (sometimes). extended relationship. speak with a prophetic voice the While the framework is an Despite all the anti-gay church needs to rediscover. Our historical one, Gillman’s point controversy Brokeback Mountain apathy to affl uenza is a much more of view is decidedly modern in is a story of people with very insidious problem than our over- fl avour. He attempts to engage the conventional attitudes about preoccupation with sexuality. Christian reader with recurring homosexuality. And while the Th e authors don’t just complain comparisons to Christian doctrine. love is forbidden, thwarted and but off er ways off the treadmill. Th is is helpful insofar as it puts tragic, this is none-the-less a Down-shifting and a “new politics” his thoughts in perspective with powerful story about relationships will challenge what you are doing. more familiar theological terrain. that challenges conventional and If you’re more technically minded, However with only 146 pages simplistic responses. Clive Hamilton’s best-selling Don’t just dismiss it as a gay fi rst book on the subject, Growth cowboy movie; somewhere beyond Fetish, is also a must read for those the furore Brokeback Mountain will wanting help to burst forth from Read more reviews online at be remembered as magnum opus, a the political and economic malaise www.journeyonline.com.au truly consummate fi lm. of our society. Bruce Mullan Paul Clark 16 Journey, March 2006 Prayer Diary What’s on

very supportive of other church • For the Samoan congregations, Wednesdays (during Term time), 9.15-11.30am. GUCCE – Gap 12 March: activities and is characterised by that they may continue to UC Craft Experience at 1050 Waterworks Road, Th e Gap. Term Trinity Wilston generosity of members’ time and encourage and disciple people in 1 includes Scrapbooking, Beaded Jewellery, Hand sewn Reversible commitment. the way of Christ; Needle Book and Card making. All most welcome! Morning Trinity Wilston Uniting has a • Pray for our church as we seek • For new directions, guidance and Tea and lots of fun and fellowship included (for just $3). Child strong history. Only in the last God’s leading this year in how we growth in spiritual understanding minding $3/child. More information contact the church offi ce on couple of years, it celebrated its are to serve and be a part of his for the church communities and the 3300 2712 or email [email protected]. ninetieth year as a worshipping mission in our community. communities the church serves; March 4, 9am-4.30pm. Workshop: How Can We Celebrate a community. A number of the Th ank God for our Well • For us all to have a greater “Progressive” Holy Week and Easter? New Farm UC Centre , 52 members of Trinity Wilston have Balanced group that meets twice understanding and thirst for the Merthyr Rd, New Farm. Guest presenter, Rev Rex Hunt from long ties with the church and also weekly that began from a belief by guidance of the Holy Spirit in our Canberra leads a full day exploring issues around the celebration with the community. Wilston is a one of our members in providing lives; of Holy Week and Easter by Christians who embrace critical close community with pride and supportive intervention through • To take the challenge to change religious scholarship, inclusive spirituality, progressive theology commitment to each other. You gentle exercise classes to those from being members to being and social justice. Also includes workshop on developing can also see this in places like the members of the community who disciples; new liturgies and resources for Easter. Further details visit local state school, where there are may benefi t from falls prevention • For peace in the world – for www.progressivespirituality.net or Ph 3488 2300 or 3844 3557. strong links between families and and balance improvement. It grew tolerance amongst people; March 12. Oxfam Walk against Want 40th birthday! Take steps the school. Trinity Wilston and over a period of time to what is now Th anks for Richard Marlow against poverty. To register a group contact James on 3637 4620 families that are part of our church quite a large group of participants. being among us – for his leadership or email [email protected]. Ask friends, family or your community also participate in this Well Balanced is indeed a blessing that gives us the hope for the future congregation to sponsor you to walk. www.oxfam.org.au/walk. strong sense of community that from God and something that and for the plans in store that God March 12, noon-2pm. Barnabas Fellowship meets at Oxley UC exists within Wilston. those who participate in and help will reveal. hall. We invite all interested in the continuing ministry of the Alongside this strong community organise can be proud of. Barnabas Community to help celebrate through 2006, the 10th is a great ecumenical spirit and 26 March: year since opening Barnabas House at Durack, Brisbane. Come Trinity Wilston benefi ts and is a 19 March: Albany Creek and help plan the next stage in our development, hopefully a contributor to this wonderful spirit Wolston Parish Barnabas Village! Bring Lunch to share. Enquiries ph Mareta that exists between the churches in Albany Creek is alive with expecta- 3279 9065 or Ed/ Olive 5598 2439 / 0411782439. the Wilston area. Please continue Wolston parish includes Goodna tion as we look ahead to ministry March 25th. Don and Beth Dalzell invite friends and relatives to pray that God will continue UC, Redbank Plains UC and in 2006. to an open house at their home in Manly West to celebrate Don’s to bless us and that the churches Goodna Samoan congregations. Th is year we welcomed Peter 80th birthday. For more details and to RSVP please phone Jenni in Wilston and the surrounding Goodna sometimes feels like a Gavel as the new leader of our Guse on 3856 4429 or email [email protected]. suburbs will bring glory to God bit of a forgotten place. It is on the Youth and Children’s ministry March 26-28, UnitingCare and Uniting Missions’ Network by continuing to work together as main highway west of Brisbane, team. Peter will be working with National Conference 2006 at the Carlton Crest Hotel Brisbane. God leads us. but teeters between Brisbane and our young adults developing Th eme: ‘Hope, Belonging, Connection and the Future’. More Late last year Trinity Wilston Ipswich, not really sure where leadership skills and exploring the information contact Sally Brown Conference Connections, PO had its annual market day, and it belongs. In people’s minds it call to discipleship through worship Box 108 Kenmore Q 4069. Ph 3201 2808 / 0407 178 200, Fax there was a very good response is associated with the nearby and small group discussion. We 3201 2809, or email [email protected] or visit from its local community as people psychiatric hospital and prisons. thank God for the wonderful work www.nationalconference2006.com wandered in to browse, buy and Newer, more upmarket estates already done by our previous youth April 9, noon-2pm. Barnabas Fellowship meets at Oxley UC hall. just chat as they enjoyed the variety surround it, but leave Goodna worker Brian on which we are able Come and help plan the next stage in our development! Bring of stalls that were on off er. It was itself untouched. Goodna is not the to build. Lunch to share. Enquiries ph Mareta 3279 9065 or Ed/ Olive a great time of fellowship and most desirable postcode – which Peter will also be working as 5598 2439 / 0411782439. outreach and was a tribute to the probably makes it the kind of place School Chaplain at Ormiston State April 13-17. Easter Family Adventure Camp. Rocky Creek hard work put in by many people. where Jesus would feel at home. Primary School. We pray for Peter Scout Camp, Landsborough, Sunshine Coast. Caravans, tents Trinity has been involved in Our prayer points are: as he seeks to share faith in Christ & cabins for families & singles to worship in out-of-doors, supporting valuable projects in • For our leaders- acknowledge in many and varied ways and across camp-fi re, scenic trips, bushwalking, bush-dancing/table games, places like East Timor. Our Sunday what has gone on before but realise many age groups stargazing & mystery event. Contact Rev John Woodley ph Club over the last couple of years that we have the chance to provide We ask for prayer for: 5495 3360 / 0419 025 150 or John Horchner 5496 8371 or email supported a signifi cant project a new model of ministry in this area • A new initiative with the parents [email protected]. that allowed a community in East to those who have a disability, those of our preschoolers. A small team April 13-17. Easter Camp. Alex Park Conference Centre, Timor to be more self supporting. who aer doing it tough fi nancially, of dedicated members is seeking to Alexandra Headlands. Cost $135. Guest speaker Nigel Rogers. Last year again our children worked those in prison, those who are sick help young parents to feel welcome Come together to have fun, spend time with friends new and old, together to support missionaries and elderly who are shut in and within our church community, and take part in all kinds of activities including beach walks, outdoor with Wycliff e Bible Translators in unable to make a contribution to to support them as they seek to adventure fun, awesome worship and most importantly a time Africa. the community. nurture their children’s faith; to renew our faith and deepen our relationship with God. More Please pray for: • For unity amongst the churches • For Ann Hewson and her information contact Louise Edwards on 0407 152 863 or email • Our teachers and children of regardless of denomination; ministry team at Bray Park. Anne [email protected]. Sunday Club in 2006 as they look • For spiritual growth for our and her dedicated team continue to April 14, 6pm for 6.30 start. Alexandra Park 60th Anniversary forward to another blessed year church in terms of becoming more fi nd creative ways to connect with Dinner. Alexandra Park Conference Centre, Mari Street learning more about and serving aware of God’s presence in our the communities of Bray Park, Alexandra Headlands. $25/person. RSVP 5443 8970. the Lord; lives, and how our faith impacts on Warner, Lawnton and surrounds. April 22, 11.30am. Australian Nurses Christian Movement • Bible studies and pastoral our families and the worlds we are We pray that God will continue to (ANCM) and Nurses Christian fellowship (NCF) reunion in concerns have always been very part of; strengthen and guide them. Roma Street parklands (grass beside the lake). Past members important to the Wilston church; • To encourage young people – to We thank God for the welcome. Bring picnic lunch and memorabilia. Enquiries to June • Pray for our Bible study group be part of the church in new and wonderful gift of Mel Perkins who on 3205 1478. that meets on a Sunday night as we exciting ways; is in fi eld placement this year at April 22-23. Gladstone Uniting Church tenth anniversary and seek God’s will in our lives. Wilston • For eff ective prayer for young Albany Creek. We have already move to their new church building in Dixon Drive. Special guest has a pastoral heart and this is parents – so that we can reach been blessed by Mel’s loving caring Rev Dr Dean Drayton, President of Assembly. Celebration Dinner especially seen with new people them in new ways, and help them nature. We pray that she may learn on the 22nd. Sunday worship lead by Dr Drayton, followed by a who come into the church. Th ey to fi nd faith; as much through us as we will learn shared lunch. All past and present members of Gladstone UC, are always made to feel welcome • To live in harmony in spite of our through her. and any other interested people who would like to celebrate with and even if we don’t always see diversity of culture, language and Albany Creek is a busy us are invited. Further information contact Margaret Cathcart on them too often, they know that background; congregation, members give 4979 3131. when they do come back they will • Crossroads: give thanks for the unstintingly of their time and April 28-May 1. Bulimba UC 3rd annual Round-About Arts & always be accepted as they are; Wolston branch – that new leaders talents. We ask for special prayers Crafts show. Contact Wendy 3399 8657. • Pray for our Cameo group, an will come on board, and for the for the success of the “Quiet Days” 30 April, 5.30pm-late. JAM hosts ‘Iron + Clay’ at Emmanuel UC, adult fellowship group that meets Crossroaders that they would grow planned to be held throughout the 249 South Pine Rd Enoggera. BBQ from 5.30pm. More info at once a month. Th is group has been in their understanding of God and year. On these days we will take www.emmanueluc.unitingchurch.org.au. JAM will also be held meeting regularly for some time, the friendships that they make; time out to be still and to listen for on 30 July and 29 October. and continues to provide a place • For the play groups that meet the still small voice of God so often Want to promote an event? of warm hospitality and fellowship at Redbank plains on a Friday missed in the hustle and bustle of Email [email protected] to all-comers. Cameo also is morning; our everyday lives. with the subject ‘What’s on’ or fax (07) 3377 9796.

Journey, March 2006 17 about using an old patch on an Find a new chruch God of grace: the eternal Father old garment? May someone with a united to the eternal Son in the more authoritative voice than mine Th e Moderator ‘predicts that in bond of the eternal fellowship and be challenged to call the church to the next 10 years, those presently love of the Holy Spirit. So, in the Letters penitence and prayer? in the majority may become the being of God, there is distinction May all who profess to love minority’(Feb Journey). Would this and diff erence in unity. Th us, in Worthily worldly done, hard uplifting work - and the lord in the Uniting Church be because they have moved on and human sexual relations there is to UnitingCare shows the many diverse earnestly join in heart-searching or passed on? be diff erence and distinction in Ours - A Worldly Church? ways our people serve -lovingly penitence that will lead to corporate It is OK to leave a denomination unity- male and female. Decidedly and unashamedly and untiringly. Free thinkers and repentance. Th en we shall pray for for conscience sake. It’s been Th e Christian understanding of “YES”. atheists are in general kindly - but the Holy Spirit to come again into happening since the N.T. Visit the male and female relationship It was settled long ago when I see no evidence if them building our midst and assembly 2006 will the Martin Luther story again and is to be derived from the self- “God loved the world” (John 3: 16). nursing homes for the frail aged, or fi nd the grace and wisdom in this, hear him say ‘Here I stand and I revelation of God in Jesus Christ Jesus came to promote us -lights “of dementia wards, drug counselling our time of need. can do no other’. No need for any and not from the Social Sciences the world” (John 1;4, Eph 5:13). rooms, or a picking up of the Ron Smith guilt feelings here. of a modem university. Moreover, the New Testament remnants of delinquent youth. I One of the tasks of the Church When the UCA declares ‘good’ encourages us to think cosmically see no network of domiciliary care under God is to preserve her purity. what the Bible unambiguously calls ( John 1: 1), as the human race such as Blue Care provides. Loving Silence the debate If your present spiritual home has ‘evil’ then the UCA has placed itself (Acts 17:31, and realistically (1 the world is limited to studying it lost the way and won’t be changed, outside the One Holy Catholic and John 2:1). In addition, our Lord and debating its virtues. In better, I pray to God that the Assembly there are plenty of denominations Apostolic Church. gave us two lessons on the nature more practical ways, John Wesley in Brisbane in July 2006 doesn’t get and congregations out there. Find Ray Lindenmayer and function of the Church. We was an honoured pioneer: “Th e bogged down with the sexuality one that respects your values and are leaven, acting on society’s heavy world is my parish.” argument again. worship preferences and be ‘Happy dough; the light given to us will Phillip Ramsay Th e media will be waiting to in the Lord’. You will discover Stay out of politics penetrate all darkness. Epiphany stir it up; it means good press for good mends wherever you worship. celebrates the Gospel’s penetration them. I can’t understand why it was And you won’t lose old ones. Such of the whole non-Jewish world. Old solutions best ever brought up; a little thought is unity in diversity. It is interesting that in the very Th ere is nothing exclusive - “Christ would have shown there was no Graham Hall week of Pope Benedict XVI’s for the world, we sing. Th e world to answer. Th e church was going fi rst encyclical, arguing against Christ we bring”. With zeal! Having read the moderator’s to alienate people whatever the the Churches’ role in politics, Th is is a world away from proposal for a makeover of the decision and made itself a laughing A house divided our Moderator David asserts his Jewry. Th eir high-churchmen, Queensland Synod I ask is it to be stock to outsiders who will see right to “critique the policies and the Sadducees, were thinkers and a makeover or will the church sew a us as bigoted, narrow minded, Our Lord Himself tells us “a house practices of our political leaders”. power brokers. But their ministry new patch on an old garment? intolerant; a Church that has not divided against itself cannot stand”. I believe that our esteemed stopped at the city’s wall! Th e I believe the registration of heard of “Love thy neighbour as Th e UCA is implacably divided Moderator is in error on two Pharisees chose a larger patch: congregations, “for” and “against” much as yourself ”. against itself on the issue of homo- points: from the southern desert to could sadly result in a situation in Reading through the article sexuality. Firstly, Jesus – “render unto Capernaum, and sideways from the which the two groups would have about the State Synods and their Th e issue is not “homophobia” Caesar”, St Paul - “submit yourself River Jordan to the Mediterranean. no dealings with each other instead varying attitudes it appears that i.e., I am accused of suff ering from to the governing authorities for Although they were charged to of unity and diversity there could Queensland has the strongest a psychiatric condition in which they are appointed by God”, and proselytise (convert non-Jews) be spiritual apartheid. views on this issue while the others I have an irrational revulsion for St Peter – “pray for the Emperor” they had 75,000 Samaritans within I have been exercised in prayer are much more tolerant and even homosexuality. all give a diametrically opposite their borders who could have been about this desperate situation suggest they are sick of the debate Th e issue is the truth of the instruction. approached. Th eirs was a cultivated and I am constantly drawn to the and to get on with all the other Gospel. As do Luther’s “Two Kingdom mind-set: the “lesser breed, without confession in older orders of Holy important issues facing the church. Firstly, it is the issue of the Th eory”, article 37 of the Anglican the Law”. People, en masse, to be Communion, “We have followed One thing is sure, if debate rages authority of the Scriptures as the 39 Articles, chapter 23 of the despised, hated, or at best ignored. the devices and desires of our own like last Assembly then the Church Word of God. Karl Barth describes Westminster Confession of Faith, For sure, we are not “worldly” in hearts. We have erred and strayed can be certain it will again split and a liberal as someone who has and John Wesley. mammon terms - self-interested, like lost sheep and there is no lose more members. liberated him/herself from the Secondly, when the Church lovers of pleasure. Lazy secularists. health in us” Ron Camplin constraints of the Word of God. meddles in politics, it usually backs We believe there is work to be So instead of a makeover, what Secondly, the issue is about the wrong horse and the poor and the Biblical doctrine of the “Fall”. marginalised suff er even more. Th is world is the world outside It is certainly not a coincidence the Garden of Eden in which that the three Christian every aspect of our human nature denominations whose clergy is infected by sin- including our meddle most consistently in politics sexuality. Th us, homosexuality is (Catholic, Anglican, Uniting) are an expression of the disorder of the very three denominations in the fallenness of the world- it is most rapid decline, according to not a part of a, so called, wonderful the 2001 National Church Life diversity blessed by God. Survey. Th irdly, the issue is about the At least the rot may be arrested Biblical doctrine of God. Man, as in the Catholic Church if the new male and female, is created in the Pope’s fi rst encyclical is obeyed. Image of God. God is the triune Stan Klan CLASSIFIEDS

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18 Journey, March 2006 Keep up to date during the Assembly Fast News

A number of resources will be provided during the Assembly meeting in Brisbane in July to keep members of the church updated on the latest news. Th ese services will include a daily news alert sent electronically each night which will capture the news of the day including stories, reports and resolutions and a daily media resource kit for congregations who would like help to communicate with their local media Th e media kit will be Skeleton athlete Michelle Steel in action. Photo by www.monash.edu.au distributed electronically to subscribers during the Assembly Raymont student meeting and contain draft media Some of the ideas being releases for distribution to local heads to Olympics considered include visits to Uniting media and briefi ng notes that Raymont Lodge student Michelle Church congregations in Brisbane; At Easter Camp your leader may look like this! Jo Nettle at Easter Camp can be used when talking with Steel has competed in her fi rst meeting with the Assembly Bible 2005. Louise Edwards is to blame for this photo journalists. Th ere will also be a winter Olympic Games in Torino, Study leader, Rev Dr Mvume staff contact available during Italy, in the sport of Skeleton. Dandala and participation in the Easter Camp fun, spend time with friends new the Assembly to provide advice Th e little known winter sport worship and bible study program and old, take part in all kinds of to congregations using the kit. involves competitors sliding down of the Assembly. Easter Camp this year will be held activities including beach walks, Offi cial media releases a track head-fi rst on a small sled. Anybody interested in being at Alex Park Conference Centre, outdoor adventure fun, awesome issued by the President and Ms Steel, a former gymnast and part of the program should visit the Alexandra Headlands. Th e cost of worship and most importantly a Assembly Offi cers and selected Surf Lifesaver, lived at Raymont 11th Assembly website (www.nat. the weekend will be $135 and the time to renew our faith and deepen media transcripts will also Lodge for the past two years. uca.org.au/11thassembly) where speaker is Nigel Rogers. our relationship with God. be accessible from the 11th Less than two years ago Michelle they can complete the on-line It is going to be an awesome For more information ph Louise Assembly website. was juggling an occupational expression of interest form. time as we come together to have Edwards on 0407 152 863 or email For more information on therapy degree at the University of [email protected]. these services, or to subscribe Queensland with the surf lifesaving to either the Daily News alert circuit and had never heard of Easter Family or the Media Resource Kit, the sport of Skeleton. She placed Adventure Camp visit the 11th Assembly website fourth and sixth at the fi rst two Historically Speaking http://assembly.uca.org.au/ World Cup competitions this year. Easter Family Adventure Camp 11thassembly/news-during. At the time of printing is on again at Rocky Creek Scout htm. Michelle had placed 12th and 13th Camp, Landsborough, Sunshine in her heats at the 2006 Winter Coast from April 13-17. Olympics. Caravans, tents & cabins for Can exercise Look for more up to date news families & singles to worship in on www.journeyonline.com.au. out-of-doors, camp-fi re, scenic improve your Raymont Lodge is the Uniting trips, bushwalking, bush-dancing/ memory? Church student hostel attached to table games, stargazing & mystery the Queensland Synod building in event. If you are aged between 65 and 75, Auchenfl ower, Brisbane. For more information you can help answer this question. Needless to say, the staff and her contact Rev John Woodley on Siobhan O’Dwyer, a PhD fellow students are very proud of 5495 3360 or 0419 025 150 or student at the University of her achievements. John Horchner 5496 8371 or email Queensland and a member of St [email protected]. David’s Uniting Church at Coopers Plains, would like to invite you to Assembly visitors THE CATHEDRAL WHICH NEVER WAS be part of some exciting research program planning New Lifeline CEO about memory, health and ageing. It was to have seated 4,000, its Romanesque basilica dominating Some volunteers will take part underway Uniting Care Director Anne Cross in a free exercise program, while Planning is underway for the 11th announced Trevor Carlyon as the Brisbane’s skyline. Inspired by a cathedral of the same name in others will complete some simple Assembly Visitors Program and Acting Chief Executive Offi cer, Chicago, the Cathedral of the Holy Name had been the vision of mental and physical assessments. expressions of interest are now Lifeline Community Care, from 3 Catholic Archbishop James Duhig. To take part you need to be being sought from those interested February 2006. doing less than 30 minutes of in joining the program. Mr Carlyon has been Director The long-serving archbishop, known as James the Builder, laid the exercise per week, and be available To help make the schedule as of Client Services within Lifeline foundation stone of the cathedral in 1928. Such was his passion for to attend sessions at Toowong interesting and suitable as possible Community Care for the past 18 during the day. for visitors, organisers are now months and has previously acted the project, he was prepared to demolish his own residence, the If you would like to be involved, asking for an indication from in the position of CEO. His imposing Dara, to ensure the realisation of his vision. or simply fi nd out more, call people about their possible interest experience and knowledge will be Siobhan on 3365 6103. in a range of activities. of great benefi t as he takes up this For many years, the city held its breath, awaiting word of the leadership role on an interim basis. commencement of construction from within the sandstone walls. Ms Cross also thanks outgoing CEO Anton Kardash for his But in the late nineties, the site was sold for a multi-unit wonderful contribution to Lifeline development. Community Care. All that remains of the vision are the architectural drawings for the cathedral that never was. Can’t get Alex Gow Funerals enough news? A Brisbane-owned family business, established in 1840. www.journeyonline.com.au is

updated almost daily Phone 3852 1501 0143/D GOW

Journey, March 2006 19 JOURNEYasks... As a Christian why did you choose to be involved in politics??

John Woodley Stan Collard And then there was the life which included church During my time as a At the precise moment home environment. My committees, politics and the Senator there were two Journey phoned me about parents were Christians, union movement. contradictory questions/ writing this, I was reading farmers, and they involved Th erefore when an comments frequently asked Th e meaning of Jesus – Two themselves in community opportunity to preselect for by Christians. One was, Visions by Marcus J. Borg activities. Dad was a a Senate position arose my “What is a nice clergyman and N. T. Wright and had Methodist local preacher and sense of altruism as well as like you doing in a place like just read Marcus Borg’s active in agri-politics as well the Christian ethos which that?” and “I am glad you are section What was Jesus up as organisational politics. I had embraced “kicked in” in politics. We need more to: Social Prophet in which Th is was the atmosphere in and I decided to have a go! Christians in Parliament.” he talks of the domination which I grew up. Both of these well- system that prevailed and But it’s not enough to live Stan Collard was a intentioned statements had prevailed on and off in that situation; eventually Senator for Queensland reveal a lack of knowledge since the Jews enslavement one has to decide on certain 1976 to 1987 and is of political processes and of in Egypt and of the plight of directions for oneself. Th us currently a lay preacher the gospel. Th e fi rst question the marginalised in Jewish I became involved in public in the Uniting Church. assumes that there are society. places which may corrupt a Jesus was critical of the clergyman if they go there domination system of his or belief in the old adage: day and at the same time “Religion and politics should related to the marginalised. not be mixed.” He was comfortable with the In fact, religion and common people and tried politics have always “mixed”, of personal and sexual to questions of social and to ease their burden, relieve because both are about morality. On these questions economic justice in the them of their bondage, how life should be lived parliamentarians, sometimes, Scriptures. For Christians although his methodology and to omit either is to be are allowed a “conscience to be involved in politics then as now was largely concerned about only half vote”, as in the current debate gives them the opportunity misunderstood. of life. As for the danger of about the drug RU486. to raise the major questions Th is leads me to the word corruption, didn’t Jesus risk Th is reinforces the belief addressed in the Gospels altruism. I would suggest his reputation constantly by in the media and community – the gap between rich and that most people who go choosing to be with sinners that questions of sexual and poor, exclusive, suff ocating into politics do so to a and outcasts? personal morality are the legalism, racism, the plight greater or lesser extent from Th e second statement only ones Christians are of refugees, and questions a sense of altruism, where assumes that Christians interested in. I should add of war and peace, to name a one can be in a situation to in Parliament will be able that, overwhelmingly, these few. have a say, to achieve things, to make a diff erence as were the questions which to better society. Fortunately Christians. In my experience drew the most violent John Woodley is a in our western democracy the party-political system in response from Christians Uniting Church minister that opportunity is widely Australia is so controlling who contacted me. who served as a senator available. Th e “domination that this takes precedence Th e tragedy is that these system” is not entrenched for Queensland over every other loyalty, questions are of relatively less with any one group of that is, except for questions importance in comparison 1993 to 2001 people.

“When an Anglican “If the Churches are not archbishop speaks on IR, he allowed to participate in What others say... has every right to speak, but the great debates about his views on IR shouldn’t be the values that ultimately “Historically, and theo- “I do not want to end up “Th e purpose of my life has “No politician should given any special weight, I underpin our society and our logically, the Western liberal- with an American style of always been guided by my consciously allow their don’t believe, because of his polity, then we have reached democratic State, in which politics, with us all going Christian faith, which is politics to become an theological training.” a very strange place indeed.” I am a very great believer, out there beating our chest the fi rm foundation under obstacle between another Federal Liberal Member of Federal Labor Member of is reliant upon the Church about our faith.” everything that makes life person and their experience Parliament Parliament – perhaps, more specifi cally, Tony Blair worth living.” of the cross of Christ. It’s Peter Costello Kevin Rudd Christianity expressed Federal Liberal Member of this concern that’s stopped institutionally – for its “I think whenever there Parliament, Louise Markus me from making an issue “If I get stuck in politics, I formation and substance.” are big issues that aff ect of my personal faith in my will stop loving. Because I Federal National Party Australians the churches “You cannot be President public career.” will have to stand by one, “Life’s most urgent question Member of Parliament have a role to voice their of the United States if you Federal Opposition Leader and not by all. This is the is: what are you doing for John Anderson views.” don’t have faith.” Kim Beazley difference.” others?” Archbishop Phillip Aspinall George W. Bush Mother Teresa Martin Luther King Jr.

journeyonline.com.au is an all new publication of the Queensland Synod. In addition to articles from the print version of Journey you will fi nd extra articles, extended versions of articles, more reviews, opinion, links to other news and events, discussion groups, what’s on and full PDF downloads of back issues of print Journey. Bookmark www.journeyonline.com.au on your browser now to keep up-to-date with all the latest Uniting Church news as it happens. JOURNEY

20 Journey, March 2006