newsletter o oemer HIGHLIGHTS FROM SYDNEY SYNOD 2015 Synod commenced with a Holy this may cause (yoga has It was argued that an Communion Service in the traditionally involved Archbishop (Jensen first and Cathedral - a beautiful worshipping other gods); and now Davies) had the right and traditional Anglican service, advises schools, and other authority to prevent public assisted by the choir from St Anglican institutions not to debate on an option that was Andrew’s School. engage in yoga and other such unacceptable and contrary to practices, but to seek alternative Anglican doctrine, and contrary The preacher, and Bible study means of promoting health and to promises made by presbyters leader throughout Synod, was well-being. This was passed at ordination. (It became Canon Stephen Gibson, without anyone calling for a obvious, while not overtly stated, preaching from Revelations. debate. that the missing opinion related to There was one novelty – the the possibility of fellowship Gloria (after Communion) was Doctrine Commission meals completely replacing Holy replaced by a rousing choir and Report on Fellowship Meals Communion.) orchestral instruments’ rendition for the Proclamation of the of “O when the Saints go Lord’s Death Bishop Forsyth apologised Marching In”. The young that the matter had been handled choir/musicians had such fun - it This Report sparked a very badly. was truly joyous. emotional debate. The final report provides for The Doctrine Commission’s full churches in the diocese of Sydney RESOLUTIONS original draft of the Report had Following is a selection of the “to have a fellowship meal for the been sent to the Standing proclamation of the Lord’s death, Resolutions passed in the order in Committee in 2011. However the which they were addressed. (see in addition to and distinct from final Report being debated in their sharing in the Lord’s Supper Synod Book, starting page 34 for all). Synod this year had been edited or Holy Communion, as set forth to remove one of the ‘options’ in our authorised liturgies.” (opinions) included in the original Report, by The Synod accepted as final one member of the the Report from Standing Doctrine Commission. Committee as presented to Synod. Some Synod members Church Planting and were upset that Synod Brownfields had not received a Synod was presented with two copy of the full draft reports that had examined the report. experience of church plants, and Speakers such as also the effectiveness of grants made in 2007 (just before the Yoga and other such Bishop Robert Diocese lost its many millions) to activities Forsyth and Dr Mark Thompson stated that the Standing 10 existing parishes to expand This resolution, resulted from a Committee had not agreed to the their building capacities. Both report called for by Synod last full draft coming to Synod (for reports showed variable results in year. In summary, it advises public debate), as one of the terms of church life expansion. churches not to rent out their options (from one member only Synod called for a report to come premises to yoga classes on of the Doctrine Commission) was to it next year recommending account of the spiritual confusion contrary to Anglican formularies. how the Diocese might fund 1 brown field developments recognition of this abbreviation, airing of grievances been helpful (existing parishes which need being the terminology preferred to any organisation, but especially help to expand). by this community. to the Church? Safe Ministry Synod then also resolved to It was noticeable that most of the A resolution re-affirming the accept Bishop Forsyth’s motion “stole” clergy and their lay Diocese’s commitment to safety concerning the Marriage Act, representatives. absented for all in its ministries, especially should the Act be changed to themselves from the chamber for children and vulnerable allow for unions of same sex before the vote, which was a people, was passed. All parishes couples. In summary, the strong, quiet statement. were encouraged to make use of resolution provides for Anglican Nomination Process for the resources at clergy to stay in the official/legal Electing the Archbishop safeministry.org.au and to adopt marriage arrangements, but only formally the Diocesan Safe in respect of male and female It was resolved that “Standing Ministry policy. marriage and while it would be Committee consider bringing to “open for individual clergy, for Synod amendments to the Ministry in Socially example by reason of conscience, Archbishop of Sydney Election Disadvantaged Areas to withdraw as an authorised Ordinance 1982 to give effect to a A number of reports have celebrant in consultation with provision that, once the minimum indicated that disadvantage in their parish”, the resolution number of 20 nominations for a some suburbs remains affirmed that “it would be nominee is reached, no more entrenched over long periods of unnecessary and pastorally nominators are required, and time. A presentation was made unhelpful for the Anglican only the first 20 nominations for a by a few parishes on some social Church of Australia to withdraw nominee received by the programs offering vocational as a recognised denomination Returning Officer will be made training and welfare support. under the Marriage Act…” An known to members of Synod.” These were very heart-warming; amendment that sought to This was passed with a at one point a presenter felt it strengthen a preference for reasonable majority after a necessary to make it clear that Anglican ministers to opt out was robust debate. The mover wants this social justice activity was well defeated. to restore dignity to the process: by removing the grotesque public well complemented with gospel Thirdly, a resolution passed display of how many nominees outreach. regretting the actions/words of can be named for a candidate; by Synod resolved that Standing Bishops of Gippsland ending the strong and Committee should produce a (Goldsworthy) and Wangaratta inappropriate pressure being put report on - “how the Diocese (Parkes). After a gentler evening on clergy and laity to be may best support ministry in than expected, this issue was identified as a nominee for a places of disadvantage in the souring for some of us. candidate; and hence retaining the most deliberate, effective and co- Goldsworthy has made an value of the secret ballot. ordinated manner, including the appointment of an openly gay best way to recruit, train and priest (as McIntyre had done DEBATES ON support leadership in these before her – same man) and (SELECTED) POLICIES areas.” Parkes has spoken out to say that marrying same sex couples is Diocesan Policy for dealing Same Sex Marriage - consistent with scripture. The with Allegations of three related resolutions resolution refers to “...faithful Unacceptable Behaviour A resolution (text at page 43 of Anglicans [in those Dioceses] Synod Book) was passed (huge who are disenfranchised by such This new policy was worked majority), after lengthy debate on actions...” and viewing the two through with amendments and words, affirming marriage as Bishops’ actions “…as a breach then Synod resolved it would being between man and woman, of collegiality and fellowship at a commence on 1 January 2016, at reflecting the views of the profound level… which deeply which point the existing President in his speech. It was a grieves us…” The view of some Grievance Policy and Procedure. respectful, and remarkably of us is that the resolution was This allows time for parishes to gentler, atmosphere than I have unfortunate, unloving and get familiar with the new policy. experienced before in the wider unhelpful. The two Bishops were This quick mention of the item Diocese on this topic; any tone of not there to speak for themselves; must not be misread – Synod condemnation of LGBTIs was and such matters are better left to placed great importance on this absent - indeed it was the the House of Bishops to deal with policy, with its guidance on how opposite, even down to the internally. When has public all clergy and church workers in 2 all our various roles, behave Synod. Synod agreed that the Anglican Schools Ministry towards each other. drafters should work further on an Ordinance 2015 idea for a new levy proposal, with To replace the School Chapels Parochial Cost Recoveries options, but one option being and Chaplains Ordinance 1975, wide enough to affect all parishes, and Church Land this new Ordinance aims to being a levy on any income Acquisitions Levy regulate relationships between all except offertories, eg including Ordinance 2015 Anglican Schools with the local bank interest. In passing this ordinance, all parish community whether extra- parishes are committed to This will come to Synod by parochial or not; provide for continue (probably for some years 2020 along with further appointments and dismissals of to come) to pay levies to help consideration of an alternative, chaplains; define chaplains’ with the purchase of new land for but revised Large Property duties and responsibilities, etc. churches in Sydney fringe. The Receipts policy, which might There were many drafting issues usual parochial cost recovery sweep into its net more parishes and some fundamental questions charges were confirmed. than now. The levy proposal in in some of these matters particular could represent a concerning the authority of the Proposal for a Property seismic shift in raising funds Heads versus the School Council. Receipts Levy Policy from parishes. This may be After incorporating amendments necessary but parishes must be made at Synod and identifying This issue has the potential to alert to, and get engaged in, any some unresolved issues, Synod have a significant impact on all consultations that will occur. agreed to the draft going for parishes’ finances. Sydney consultation to Chairs, Heads and You have been warned. Diocese is cash strapped since Chaplains, with a further draft the huge losses first announced coming to Synod in 2016. in 2009. The levies to buy land DEBATES - (SELECTED) (mentioned above) were ORDINANCES OTHER MATTERS introduced a couple of years ago, Parental Leave Ordinance and are helping the Diocese to 2015 Financial accounts of buy up property in new suburbs. Diocesan organisations Then there is the need for This exposure draft bill aims to buildings on these sites. In bring conditions for clergy more If you are interested in the full addition, and critically, as 70% of into line with community financial accounts of diocesan the projected population growth is standards. It will now go to organisations, they are becoming in existing parishes, from inner parishes for consultation and go increasingly more available. For city to right out west, there will back to Synod for assent next example, accounts of the Sydney be consideration at next Synod of year. Whether it is best dealt with Diocesan Secretariat and the the needs in “brownfields”. as a policy or an Ordinance was Glebe Administration Board see: discussed. As this is an important http://www.sds.asn.au/Site/100692.as There exists an old ‘Large issue of employment conditions, p?ph=cb - Receipts Policy’, of sorts. It is it was agreed that it should be Click on both names in turn, then not a policy that has ever been enshrined in law, not left as on “governance” under each. Or to Synod – it is an old one, only policy which is a bit easier for for major Diocesan organisations, ever endorsed at Standing parishes to dodge around, if so such as Moore College, The Committee level. minded. Schools Corporation, Anglican It is poor policy, having Lay Ministry Ordinance 2015 Retirement Villages and unclear rules which are unevenly Anglicare, get their ABN applied across parishes with The shape of ministry teams has numbers from the answer to income from leases (not casual changed in many parishes since question 4 at pages 13-14 in the lettings with “licences”). Only the current Ordinance Synod Report and enter these into about 17 parishes are required (Deaconesses, Readers and Other the ACNC search box at to give a contribution under lay Persons Ordinance 1981) was http://www.acnc.gov.au/ this policy, including four “big assented to. The new Ordinance ones” (St James King St, Manly, addresses the emergence of some Mission Hour lax practices. It clarifies which York St and Ryde). Some of us were saddened by this lay ministers/lay ministries must Session. Visitors from the UK The attempt to make the policy be authorised by the Archbishop, made a presentation from AMiE more transparent and equitable and those which may be (Anglican Mission in England) through a revised policy failed authorised by the Rector. both last and this year in about their plans to “rescue”

3 disaffected parishes from while remaining sensitive and was held in St Andrew’s oversight by female bishops. loving in the defence of biblical Cathedral on Thursday 26th truth on matrimony, to be very November . I researched this group and found aware of the fact that We think it is only ‘au revoir,’ a BBC report: (http://www.bbc.com/news/uk- homosexuality is not just “an and that he will long continue to 15241528) which asserts that “the issue” but it is a matter that be active in the life of the worldwide split in Anglicanism concerns “people, created and Diocese. over gay issues has become loved by God, many of whom are Christians.” linked to the concerns of some Church of England members * Acknowledging with grief concerned at the prospect of that the issue of domestic NEW BISHOP FOR SOUTH women bishops.” As a result: violence has been a wake up call SYDNEY “The Anglican Mission in to society, including sadly the The Consecration of the England (AMIE), which was set church, but noting that it is not up this year, shares some global the inevitable consequence of the Anglican leaders' concerns over doctrine of headship in marriage. the gay question, but is also keen * Expressing gratitude for the to help Anglicans who cannot way the Diocese has sprung into accept women bishops.” action already, preparing for It reported that AMiE members the arrival in Sydney of may be looking to the worldwide Refugees from Syria and Iraq. Anglican movement Gafcon for leadership, (which is, of course, * Noting this would be Bishop Reverend will where Sydney Diocese comes in). ’s last Synod, be held in the Cathedral Archbishop Glenn Church of St Andrew on FINAL REMARKS acknowledged his significant Saturday 5 December at contributions to the Diocese 10.30am. Synod’s ‘quote of the year’? over many decades. Michael Stead, aged 46, has A clergyman (a Rector no less) been appointed to be the next He paid tribute to his humility noted in the course of a debate Bishop of the South Sydney and grace through some very Region on the retirement of that “we are all Anglicans, but difficult times. Bishop Robert Forsyth at the actually Ana-Baptists at heart”. end of 2015. Really? Dr Stead holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree (UNSW), is Again the Synod was well chaired an honours graduate of Moore by our Archbishop and supported BISHOP ROBERT FORSYTH – AU REVOIR College and holds a Doctor of administratively by an amazing Philosophy from the University group of Secretariat staff. of Gloucestershire. He has been on the staff at St James For full text of all proceedings: Turramurra since 2000, http://www.sds.asn.au/assets/Docum becoming Rector there in 2008. ents/synod/Synod2015/2015%20Syn He is a part-time lecturer in Old od%20Proceedings.full.pdf Testament at Moore Lyn Bannerman Theological College. Parishioner, CCSL Michael is married to Felicity, and they have three teenage Robert Forsyth has been the children. Bishop of the South Sydney ARCHBISHOP’S region for fifteen years since SYNOD ADDRESS 2000. Archbishop , Prior to that he had been Rector ANGLICANS TOGETHER covered a wide range of issues in of St Barnabas’ Broadway, NEWSLETTER his Annual Presidential Address. Sydney. published by During that time he has been ever ANGLICANS TOGETHER INC * Encouraging parishes to active and supportive of the Opinions expressed are those of press on with Mission 2020, widely diverse parishes in that contributors. particularly in the context of area. Editor: Moya Holle PO Box 429 Glebe NSW 2037 Sydney’s expected growth. Although he has been farewelled in different ways in different * Same sex marriage - churches, the official Farewell encouraging Sydney Anglicans, 4

‘ORA ET LABORA’ Greetings in Christ,

Changes in Leadership Christian Discipline

CHRISTIAN DISCIPLINE impossible? Perhaps. Should we be There are a couple of key changes in satisfied with anything less? Like leadership about to happen in the Over the past couple of years I have the pursuit of justice, no. Diocese. Bishop Rob Forsyth will been exploring aspects of the end his ministry as the Bishop of spiritual life that bind us together as So what must we do to inherit South Sydney in December. Many a Christian community and eternal life? Again, the answer lies people have appreciated Bishop motivates us to follow Christ. I have in the summary of the law; Rob’s pastoral care and leadership reflected on what God calls his “You shall love the Lord your God in this role and are appreciative of people to do and the nature of the with all your heart, and with all his and Margie’s commitment to ‘kingdom of God’ in which we are your soul, and with all your serving the church in this way. We to live. I have also considered the strength, and with all your mind; wish them well in retirement and incarnational nature of the church pray God’s blessing upon them. and the centrality of worship, and and your neighbour as yourself.” (Luke 10:27) We also welcome Dr Michael finally the qualities of a virtuous Christian life and the behaviours Stead’s appointment as the new The discipline of the Christian that may help enhance this. I now Bishop of South Sydney and look community focuses on two areas; turn to the more practical matters of forward to working with him in the ‘duty to God’ and ‘duty to the disciplines that help us on the service of our Lord. neighbour’. Both are necessary for journey of faith. living an authentic Christian life. Early in October Bishop The now rarely used Catechism (see of Western Sydney was diagnosed What does the Lord Require? page 814 of the A Prayer Book for with a pancreatic tumour. He has The Ten Commandments provide Australia) outlines these duties in a since had an operation to address it most comprehensive way. and is now convalescing. We pray a basis for the ordering of relationships between an for Bishop Ivan and his wife DUTY TO GOD Virginia that God’s healing hand individual, God and the wider will be upon him. community. These are not so The Christian faith is both much a contract between God and understood and lived out through We have also been saddened to hear humanity, (as if between equal relationships, and the primary of the death of Dr Jane Mathieson parties), but rather a demand relationship is directed toward God. who was Personal Assistant to similar to that made by a The first four commandments Bishop Rob Forsyth. Many people sovereign over a subject. There is describe our duties to God and the encountered Jane when contacting no sense of negotiation or Catechism describes it thus: St Andrew’s House and appreciated optionality here, rather it is a test “Our duty is to believe and trust her caring and helpful manner along of an individual’s loyalty to God. in God; to love and obey God with her witty conversation. We and to bring others to know him; give thanks to God for her ministry Jesus addresses the Ten to put nothing in the place of among us. She will be greatly Commandments in the Sermon on God; to show God respect in missed. the Mount (Matthew 5-6). Some commentators have been troubled thought, word, and deed; and to The Diocesan Synod has now by Jesus’ reinterpretation of the set aside regular times for passed. There was not a great Commandments and have dismissed worship, prayer, and the study of deal of controversy and the main them as an unattainable ideal. God's ways”. issues were somewhat predicable. Others have argued that their intent Helpfully, it outlines the Matters of SRE, marriage, the is to expose the motivations that lie disciplines that will help us grow Syrian refugee crisis, child abuse in behind our behaviour. In other in our relationship with God. church institutions all featured in words, the basis for our ethics is to debates. Details about the Synod be discovered by understanding our a. Regular Worship: A basic part can be found on the Diocesan motivations rather than just virtuous of any relationship is the need to website. outward behaviour. Are they give expression to the value of

5

that relationship through both given us; to work and pray for Hypocrisy is understood as the words and actions. Christ has peace; to bear no malice, opposite of integrity, where a promised to be present in our prejudice, or hatred in our person’s behaviour is gathering together (that is a hearts; and to be kind to all the inconsistent with their stated presence to be discovered in the creatures of God; to use our beliefs or values. words of scripture, the actions of bodily desires as God intended; prayer and sacraments, and to be honest and fair in our c. Honesty: There is more to through fellowship with other dealings; to seek justice, honesty than telling the truth. Christians in whom the Holy freedom, and the necessities of Honesty is concerned with moral Spirit dwells). life for all people; and to use our outcomes that are open, truthful talents and possessions as ones and focused on the well-being of b. Regular Prayer: Just as it is who must answer for them to others. An honest person necessary to give expression of God; to speak the truth, and not therefore does not steal, lie or the value of a relationship, it is to mislead others by our silence; cheat, as this would be a denial also important to communicate to resist temptations to envy, of the moral good, which is with those whom we value. greed, and jealousy; to rejoice in worth pursuing for its own sake.

Through prayer we open other people's gifts and graces; These disciplines involve making ourselves to God and share those and to do our duty for the love of choices regarding our interactions things of concern to us and to God, who has called us into with others. They are both actions wait on what God has to say to fellowship with him”. us. arising from the ‘will’ of an Interestingly, there are many individual, but also the activity of c. Regular Scripture Reading: codes of conduct that arise out of the ‘grace of God’ present in The Scriptures reveal to us the religious traditions, beliefs and people’s lives as they are nature of God, the creation cultures and yet they often have transformed into the likeness of around us, and the working out common themes expressed Christ. of the relationship between God through them. It would appear and humanity. They contain the that there is an innate A BALANCED LIFE collected spiritual memory of understanding of the values of St Benedict of Nursia wrote humanity on the one hand and justice and love that is shared by ‘idleness is the enemy of the soul’ God’s word to us on the other. all humanity. As Christians, we (Rule 48). By this, he emphasised understand this to be a reflection Together, these disciplines keep us the need for a balanced life that of the nature of God in whose focused upon God and the includes work, prayer, study and image we are created. transforming practices in life that rest. The Rule of St Benedict

help us to become the people that emphasises the need for a I offer three disciplines that are God wants us to be. If they are to disciplined community so that it derived from the Commandments; may achieve the things that God help us in the process of change then has called it to do. they need to be more than just a. Respect: This concerns our Sunday activities. Indeed, they need attitudes about other people, (and Likewise, the Christian faith is to be more than just ‘activities’; indeed about ourselves and God). holistic in its approach to life; so St instead becoming a way of life and It suggests that we hold a Paul ends the first Letter to the attitude that touches every part of positive opinion of others Thessalonians with; our being. coupled with appropriate actions toward them that affirm this “May the God of peace himself DUTY TO NEIGHBOUR view. Rudeness and aggression sanctify you entirely; and may

The Catechism also gives a very on the other hand indicates your spirit and soul and body be complete outline of our duty to disrespect and a breaking of what kept sound and blameless at the neighbour: might otherwise be a positive coming of our Lord Jesus relationship. Christ”. (1 Thessalonians 5:23) “Our duty to our neighbours is to love them as ourselves, and to b. Integrity: This word is derived The Bible tends to describe human do to other people as we wish from the concept of ‘wholeness’. beings as a mixture of ‘body’, them to do to us; to love, honour, In ethical terms, it refers to the ‘mind’, ‘soul’ (or spirit), and and help our parents and family; virtue of consistency and sometimes also ‘heart’. All these to honour those in authority, and principled behaviour that reflects aspects of our lives need to be to meet their just demands; to the internal beliefs and nurtured if we are to grow to show respect for the life God has understandings of an individual. maturity. We feed and exercise our 6

bodies so that we may be healthy, recent years concerning the need for Finding balance in our lives is our we cultivate our minds so that we balance between work and family own responsibility, but it is also may grow in understanding, and we life. Many people have become something that God calls us to do. nourish our souls so that we might aware of the increasing time spent at have ultimate meaning and purpose work to the detriment of their health, The stipulations of duty to God in our lives. All aspects need relationships and spiritual life. In and neighbour, as outlined in the attention and to neglect one part is some respects, St Benedict’s Ten Commandments, are also to cause us to be less than we might warning could be reversed to say about creating balance between otherwise be. ‘busyness is the enemy of the soul’. the spiritual life and social To be sure, the Sabbath principle of engagement, between work and A balanced life is therefore having one day of rest in seven is rest, between our own needs and important for everyone. Not only understood as God’s gift to the needs of those around us, both does it have a positive impact on humanity, a requirement of the in our own generation and for the individual but it also extends Commandments, and is revealed in those who are to follow. its benefits to families, the first creation story as part of the The Reverend Andrew Sempell communities and nations. There nature of God. President, Anglicans Together have been a number of reports in

FLIGHT

Nadia Wheatley and Armin Greder Publisher: Windy Hollow Books www.windyhollowbooks.com.au Price $25.99

The arrival of an angel telling Joseph to flee with the child Take wings and his mother is part of the remarkably celestial infant and fly! narratives of the gospels. His response is illustrated on the That was first page by darkness and a cautious little group with the their laden donkey creeping into the shadow of the town impression wall. There is no Herod, no angel and the cleverest that was beginning of a well-known narrative. We are moving out evoked into the untold story and it is unfolding before our eyes. The when I first gospels are spare and understated, but at this point the story heard the title of this book written for children. is unelaborated. `So Joseph got up, took the child with his Flee for your life! is another reading. But my money was mother by night, and went to Egypt.’ on the wings, perhaps because I couldn’t imagine how you `Went to Egypt’ has a world of meaning tucked inside it. It would approach the other subject for the picture book is just those three and the donkey, travelling alone. Starting reading community and also because I am a flightophile. at night, all too soon the day dawns with its pitiless sunshine. One glance at the cover when I bought it disabused me of They have to cross a desert, it is home to wild animals and this idea and sent me flying back across the centuries to more……. In spite of all the hazards and the haste the baby the infant Jesus in the tender, risk-taking care of his is comforted by his mother’s milk and embrace and Joseph’s parents. The cover illustration coupled with the title is protection. He is unafraid. powerful. It is night; the sky is black; the landscape is bereft The discipline required to write the text for a children’s book of all but the little fugitives. Their faces are uplifted and demands countless rewrites. The words, spare as they are, moonlit; a study in hope and fright. Together title and provide a canvas for the illustrator to reflect them and in this illustration exclaim the drama of an old story which is really book, to be read in the light, black and white is just warmed only a sketch in the pages of the book – the Gospel of by colour rarely used. Matthew. In her interview Nadia suggested that this book was a As an adult I come to the pages of this book with my own good one to read away from bedtime and that is because version of the narrative installed. It has such evocative fear and hazard are vividly expressed. Adults will power that a glance unfurls my account intact. But like a experience a harrowing sense of risk and danger, and child who returns countless times to favourite books, I too children will identify with the child in the story and take love retellings and this one is surprising and satisfying. I comfort themselves in his safe-keeping. will resist the temptation to give you Nadia’s entire take on the flight into Egypt, except to say that we are increasingly It will be a wonderful way to reflect with the children in your exercised by the desperate and dangerous movement of life about flight. people across the world. It is a most topical subject on this Rosemary Bradford very day. St Luke’s, Enmore 7

BOOK REVIEW Live Peace JOY BALAZO AND YOUNG AMBASSADORS FOR PEACE by Margaret Reeson Acorn Press, 2015 : www.acornpress.net.au, This is a truly inspiring friendship and community that mediation for a few workshops. book, tracing the life and the would be a real lifeline in times Joy also did a number of ‘Train spiritual and practical journey of trouble and provide a way to the Trainer’ workshops and of Joy Balazo, a former Roman work through conflicts. invited people from one country Catholic nun from the to help lead the YAP program in Philippines. This Book records true another - sharing of experiences. Joy worked with the Uniting stories and highlights in The author, Margaret Reeson Church in Australia (ÚCA’) for the life of this amazing and her husband Ron (former over 20 years, being appointed woman and her work for missionaries in PNG) were in 1991 as Associate Secretary peace and justice. significant collaborators with Joy, for International Human Rights * The story of Hubert, in bringing long understanding of of the UCA. With the backing of Bougainville, a former the highlands of PNG and cross her committee, she began a commander of the Resistance, cultural work there. ground-breaking program, Young who is now a peace builder Ambassadors for Peace * The work with those in the Joy, a truly remarkable woman, (‘YAP’). YAP brought together ‘Francis Ona’ faction in brought an enormous amount people in conflict zones from Bougainville - the Makamui to that work. Margaret captures opposite sides of conflicts, to * In Ambon, a young Muslim the warm and engaging way Joy develop the seeds of peace. woman, Kiki, taking Joy, a had, and has, of developing friendship and trust across many In this book, Margaret Reeson Christian, to meet the Muslim apparent barriers of ethnicity, details some of the ground- rajahs and lurahs of Ambon at culture, gender, class and religion. breaking and life-transforming the height of the conflict! work of YAP and GAP, the * 32 tribal groups in PNG, Margaret (a writer for over 45 associated program of women’s representing 16 conflicts, years) has a beautiful, flowing peace-building work. deciding to enter into negotiation style, a thorough grasp of detail * The gun surrender in Tari, and history and an ability to YAP and GAP Programs PNG - highlanders handing in recount pithy vignettes and took place over many years in their long arms - the culmination critical moments. These capture Ambon, Indonesia, Bougainville, of a peace process between the essence of some of the thorny Solomon Islands, PNG different tribes problems and amazing Highlands, Philippines, Sri Lanka, * Bougainville Women’s transformations that were a North East Thailand and Burma. Peace Conference - during the hallmark of the YAP Program. The style of those programs middle of the 1996 civil war - This book documents vital was grass-roots. It cut across 700 Bougainvillian women, from and inspiring peace-building hierarchies. Students, farmers different churches and all parts of work in our region, and how one and community leaders; army and Bougainville met. Six Australian church, the Uniting Church in resistance groups, police and local women were present, including Australia, enabled that to happen. government personnel and Mandy Tibbey and Sr Veronica It will be of interest to those religious and NGO workers in Brady (who died recently). interested in peace-building, different places were able to work Joy worked ecumenically conflict transformation, and in through some of the intractable and sometimes on an inter-faith building links between unlikely conflicts in their areas. They basis (as in Ambon, Indonesia, partners - breaking fresh ground discussed the underlying issues where Christians and Muslims in our churches. that breed hostility, resentment were in conflict and multi-faith and, in some instances, fester war. contexts such as Sri Lanka). For The writer plans to send a copy to her Conferences, Joy drew Justin Whelby, Archbishop of YAP and GAP Programs speakers from different Canterbury, as a resource for the made people from opposite backgrounds. I was privileged to work of the Anglican Church in sides of conflicts more aware of deliver lectures and workshops on peace-building, in Africa in which the perspectives of those on the international human rights and the he was involved. other “side” of the conflict and UN instruments, and on Mandy Tibbey developed bonds of trust, St Luke’s Enmore 8

BOOK REVIEW A Church for Our Times: Holy Trinity Church, Dulwich Hill, 1886-2015 by John Coleman and Robert Irving, Heritage Publishing, Leura, 2015 $25.00

This beautifully designed book is by Others, such as Mr Grubb, the As for sermons, there was no two parishioners of Holy Trinity, Verger, I remember because of my time emphasis on a ‘penal substitutionary’ Dulwich Hill - John Coleman, a there as Catechist in 1954. atonement, which some now equate churchwarden, former history with ‘the Gospel’. The emphasis With no training. and wet behind teacher, and Robert Irving, then was on conversion, commitment, the ears, at 18 I took two services and architectural historian. and holiness. preached twice every Sunday – mostly There are many coloured and other at the branch church, St Aidan’s, but It is said (p.38) that “during the illustrations. Side notes are helpfully in one morning a month at Holy Trinity, period after World War II” numbers at the wide margins. The main text is under the Rev’d Leslie Richards St Aidan’s declined and eventually the interspersed with special features (another product of the parish and war- decision was made to close the church. covering particular individuals ranging time chaplain). Two regulars at St It was not sold until 1990. In the 50s from Lieutenant Everard Digges La when I knew it, it was very well Touche to David Smith and Angela, attended. Rex Reynolds did not come his wife. Also former Archbishop, as curate there in 1954 as the text might who has written the suggest. (p.53). I came after the Rev’d Foreword. There is a large Harry Edwards. The Rev’d Ted bibliography, and a detailed index. Storey, from Grafton Diocese, came shortly before I moved to Granville as The book celebrates the Catechist for four years. Centenary of the present building and the 25th anniversary of Dave’s Most readers will be interested ministry there. above all in the 25 years of Father Dave’s varied ministry, described at length. Aidan’s Evensong were Deaconess I hope people will buy this book, Joan Ash and her sister Margaret, and not least for the wonderful their brother Ron, a priest of the encouragement found in his story Diocese. Their mother one of many and that of Angela and of the Rev’d people whose hospitality I enjoyed. Dr Keith Mascord and all kinds of If Mr Richards’ churchmanship other parishioners who continue to was thought by some to be “less make Holy Trinity, Dulwich Hill such liberal” (p.51) than some predecessors. a remarkable church and a great I found him strict but fair, and his wife blessing to the local community. Nellie delightful. Pastoral visiting The Rev’d Dr John Bunyan was a staff priority - visiting on Campbelltown NSW Archbishop Goodhew was just one Wednesday afternoons and then of many men and women from the Youth Fellowship at night. AN INTER-AGENCY congregation called to ministry at home The dignified BCP Services were or (in a very missionary-minded parish) ANGLICAN CONFERENCE - well attended, robes worn, kneeling MELBOURNE overseas. The fourth Rector, George adopted for prayer; individual cups Chambers, became first Bishop of and grape juice for Communion 10–13 February 2016 Central Tanganyika and William Wynn unknown. At each church there was Jones, his Assistant Bishop. Morning Prayer and Evensong on LIFE IN ABUNDANCE I came that they may have life John 10:10 The book should not be missed by Sundays, sung by the choirs of each anyone interested in our diocesan church. There was also 8 am An Anglican Conference on history and especially this parish and Communion at the Parish Church. MISSION & EVANGELISM the people associated with it. These Perhaps surprisingly (from the MISSION & EVANGELISM Communion Offertory) Mr Richards include Max Corbett, and his wife VENUE: TRINITY COLLEGE Valda who died recently, Edwin stood facing east (as the rubric allows), Parkville, VIictoria Davidson (later Bishop of Gippsland), though turning with the elements while SPEAKERS include: Stephen reading the words of institution. Some Terry Dein, Cedric Dillon, Harry Pickard; Dorothy Lee; Justin have preferred to remain at the “north Edwards, John Fowler, Ken Leask, Duckworth; Stephen Bevans and John Thurling (long-time editor of end”, emphasizing that Jesus is the the Anglican Historical Society unseen host at his Table. John Keble For information email: Journal). would have been at home, and I would [email protected] wish for nothing better. 9

MISSION 2020 DIOCESE OF SYDNEY: SOME REFLECTIONS Our Vision – To see Christ honoured as An examination of the text reveals conversionism, activism, biblicism and Lord and Saviour in every community. that Mission 2020 comprises a vision crucicentrism. Let us briefly consider statement, what the Diocese hopes to each of them and then as they manifest Our Mission – We commit ourselves see, a mission statement, what it wants themselves in the texts of Mission 2020. afresh, in prayerful dependence on the to do, a set of values that undergird Conversionism embraces what for Holy Spirit, to glorify God and love Mission 2020, and four priorities. The evangelicals is the gospel priority that our neighbour by proclaiming the Lord priorities each contain key factors and individuals need to be converted, to Jesus Christ, calling people to repent goals containing data from the National repent and turn away from their sins and and living lives worthy of him. Church Life Survey (NCLS) so as to thus embrace faithful obedience to Attendees at the 2014 Session of measure the achievement or otherwise Christ as their Lord and Saviour. The Synod of of the relevant goal. Then in July 2015, reward will be eternity with God in the the SRG subsequently released some heaven for the repentant convert and Anglican further resources to support and avoidance of the torment of hell Diocese measure progress against Mission 2020 awaiting the unrepentant non-convert. of goals. Conversionism also implies a marked Sydney change of lifestyle, consistent with now There are two broad observations will being a follower of Christ, thereby that I want to make concerning recall rejecting previous ‘sinful’ ways of life. Mission 2020. that one Firstly, an examination of Mission It is fair to conclude that the of the 2020 unsurprisingly reveals that it is fundamental aim of Mission 2020 is most unambiguously evangelical. The term conversionism since ‘mission’ itself is vigorously debated items of business ‘evangelical’ is regularly bandied about. conceived as initiatives to achieve concerned the Mission 2020 For some Anglicans it constitutes a converts, souls won for Christ. The document. Proposed amendments badge of honour and a core description Vision: ‘To see Christ honoured as included seeking to clarify that the of their Christian identity – “I am a Lord and Saviour’ is the outcome of Jesus we proclaim is ‘our Saviour’, Christian first, an evangelical second, conversionism and the Mission in part that in our mission we are ‘calling and an Anglican third” (a comment conceives glorification of God and love people to repent’, that those living made by a member of the 2015 Synod for neighbour in terms of ‘calling apart from faith in Christ are ‘under during debate). For others it may be a people to repent’. Further, the Values the righteous judgment of God’ and term employed pejoratively – “Those cherish the need for ‘repentant hearts’ that we value the ‘reading and Sydney evangelicals!” and also ‘hearts to change’. Priority 1 explanation of Scripture as our basic is also to ‘Reach all the lost in our methodology for ministry’. There have been numerous attempts Diocese’ i.e. the non-converted. to identify the key aspects of theology The original version of this Concerning change of lifestyle, it talks and belief around which evangelicals document came to the 2014 Synod in a of the repentant convert ‘living lives have, as a group, coalesced and which report of the Standing Committee. It worthy of him [Jesus]’ and the Values have been used to distinctively mark locates the origins and motivation for of ‘living lives of holiness and humility and construct their collective the document as arising out of the that adorn the gospel’. theological identity. A particularly feedback received from parishes and significant analysis, and one which is The term activism, as applied in this individuals to the previous report, regularly referred to in scholarship on sense, involves an attitude and mindset What’s Next? Committee to the 2013 this subject, is David Bebbington’s four that emphasises the need for constant Synod which itself had been tasked with marks of evangelical theology set out in urgency and energy in missional formulating a draft text of the next his book Evangelicalism in Modern conduct done in God’s name. Rob articulation of the Diocesan Mission. Britain: A History from the 1730s to Warner in his book Reinventing Towards the end of 2013, Standing the 1980s (Routledge: 1989). Although English Evangelicalism, 1966-2001: A Committee formed the Strategic his book focuses upon British Theological and Sociological Study Resources Group (SRG) which evangelicalism, the ongoing (Paternoster: 2007) argues that produced the original version of the connections and regular exchanges ‘Activism is undoubtedly the prevailing Mission 2020 document. between English and Australian evangelical mindset - always busy and As mentioned, there were Anglican evangelicals (ie in the sometimes frenetic paced with a world numerous proposed amendments to longstanding ties between Moore to serve and to win’ (16). The primary the original version at the 2014 College, and Oak Hill College, London) aim of evangelical activism is the Synod. The text of the final form suggests that Bebbington’s analysis can conversion of others. One of the adopted by the 2014 Synod can be be relied on for application in an implications of this is, once the accessed from the Vision for Sydney – Australian Anglican evangelical individual’s soul is ‘won for Christ’, for Mission 2020 section of the Diocesan context. that new convert to urgently and website energetically try and win as many other These four qualities that Bebbington (http://sydneyanglicans.net/mission). souls for Christ as possible. has identified as special marks and core priorities for evangelicals are: 10

In Mission 2020 this sense of David Bebbington has noted that remembrance of Christ (Luke 22:19), activism is embodied in the Values of reference to crucicentrism also includes the one sought to be ‘honoured as Lord having ‘urgent love for people who, the doctrine of the Atonement and the and Saviour’, in the congregational apart from faith in Christ Jesus, face different atonement models which build gatherings and Christian fellowship that certain condemnation’ which will be upon the variety of images used in the Priority 2 for example calls for? aided by the fellow Value of ‘selfless New Testament to explain the meaning Bebbington’s quality of activism, flexibility and creativity to reach the and effect of Jesus’ atoning work. The as set out above, and reflected in many different peoples in our doctrine of the Atonement is a big- Mission 2020, also omits reference to community with the gospel’. Priority ticket item for evangelicals and for activism in the sense of social justice. 1.2 also talks of ‘Mobilising more the Diocese of Sydney. In particular, This is not to suggest that activism in people to share Christ’s love in word and as others have identified before, the the sense of social justice concerns is and deed’. Further, the sense of Diocese of Sydney seeks to promote not a focus of Sydney Anglicans or their urgency encapsulated in activism is one atonement model, known as ‘penal Diocesan organisations, but this and revealed in the way in which the five- substitution’, as being the orthodox matters such as encouraging Christian year cycle of the NCLS (next due in expression of the doctrine of the initiatives which seek to reduce social 2016) is considered by many Sydney Atonement which possesses, what inequality in our community do not Synod members inadequate - not fast might be termed, a ‘primary controlling appear to manifest themselves as a paced enough to provide a progress status’ over all other models, including priority in Mission 2020 in the way that, report for Sydney Anglican parishes sacrifice, of Christ’s victory over evil or for example, calling people to with respect to reaching the Mission subjective moral influence. repentance, reading and explaining the 2020 goals (or not). Accordingly in In a 2010 Report, the Doctrine Bible are currently priorities. This partnership with the NCLS, the Diocese Commission of the Diocese of Sydney explains why in the Mission, ‘love of has developed the M20 Survey, which defined penal substitution as neighbour’ is confined to ‘proclaiming is a shortened form of the NCLS, to maintaining that ‘on the cross, Christ the Lord Jesus Christ, calling people to provide parishes with an annual report. paid the penalty of death in the place of repent and living lives worthy of him’. The quality of biblicism promotes sinners ... reconciliation between God There is also no reference in the conviction that the Bible is the and man is achieved by Christ acting in Mission 2020 to the world and divinely inspired Word of God with place of, or taking the place of sinners, creation that God has given us to care some adherents maintaining that the by undergoing the punishment, penalty for and delight in (Genesis 1:26-30, Bible is both inerrant and infallible. or judgement which was due to them’ 2:15). Our stewardship and attempt to Accompanying this is the belief that the (para 15 and 16). play a meaningful part in formulating Bible is the supreme authority in all The second observation about and actioning responses to pressing matters of faith and doctrine. The first Mission 2020 concerns its omissions. environmental challenges that our local two Values listed in Mission 2020 Specifically, what are some of the communities and the wider global cherish ‘God’s Word, the Bible as our factors that an Anglican who is not a community are facing again seems to ultimate authority and guide’ and ‘the conservative Sydney evangelical might have no place or priority in reading and explanation of the Bible as want to see included in a diocesan contemporary mission as conceived in the basic method of our ministry’. mission statement? The following are Mission 2020. And of course there is Priority 2.3 emphasises the importance not an exhaustive list of omitted matters nothing in Mission 2020 about of ‘Strengthening personal and family but are examples of matters which promoting gender equality and reducing devotions through prayer and Bible attract greater attention in other sections discrimination in our society, personal reading’. Further, in the subsequent of our Church and its mission yet are relationships or within the Church in its Ways to Mission: Mission 2020 omitted from Mission 2020. lay and ordained ministries. document some of the suggested ways to achieve Priority 2 encourages that One glaring omission concerns In conclusion, no one familiar with ‘All teaching is centred on God’s Word’ any reference to sacraments. Mission the history, priorities and even and that ‘Personal and corporate 2020 and its supporting documents peculiarities of the Diocese of Sydney devotion to God’s Word and prayer is can accurately be described as being would expect its mission statement to be encouraged and modelled strategically a ‘sacrament-free zone’! This is both anything but evangelical, even through all ministries’. Remembering with respect to the two so-called conservative evangelical. As has been that ‘God’s Word’ as defined in the ‘greater sacraments’ and the five ‘lesser demonstrated, Mission 2020 does not Values is ‘the Bible’ and not ‘Jesus’ (as sacraments’. Confining ourselves to the disappoint in this respect. Its particular in John 1:1, 14). two greater sacraments, where for overemphasis and omissions however instance is the place, or perhaps the raise the legitimate question of whether Crucicentrism promotes a special priority, of Baptism as the sacrament this mission statement could be emphasis and focus upon Jesus’ death of initiation into membership of enriched and balanced to better assist in on the cross (as distinct from the God’s family in the overarching the overall mission goal of the diocese Incarnation, his birth or conversionist objective of Mission 2020 to faithfully reach out to the diverse resurrection) as the saving event. of making new disciples (Matthew global metropolis that is Sydney. This special emphasis is evident in the 28:19)? Also, where is the place of The Reverend Dr Max Wood values which promote ‘the centrality of Holy Communion, the breaking of the Rector, Parish of St Luke’s, Mosman the cross of Christ and his resurrection bread and sharing of the cup in in our proclamation’. Importantly, 11

INTERNATIONAL ANGLICAN LITURGICAL CONSULTATION Two Australians attended the 2015 on questions of Anglican liturgical HISTORIC MOMENT AT A International Anglican Liturgical theology and practice. SPECIAL EVENSONG Consultation (IALC) in Montreal, While it has no formal ‘decision SERVICE IN Canada, in August - the Rev’d Dane making’ authority, our hope is that this WESTMINSTER ABBEY Courtney (Sydney) and the Rev’d Dr conversation helps to maintain some Elizabeth Smith (Perth). commonality among churches of the This Consultation is a gathering of Communion. Anglicans involved in liturgical work. Recent IALC meetings have given It has been held every 2 years for the attention to ’funeral rites’ and past 30 years. ‘marriage rites’. The last two It was formed initially by the occasions have focussed on issues to Anglican members of Societas do with reconciliation and healing — Liturgica, an inter-denominational the 2015 meeting giving particular professional body for those who teach consideration to ‘rites of corporate reconciliation’. During a special Evensong Service Liturgy in Colleges or are members of at Westminster Abbey, London in Liturgical Commissions.. Societas Being in Canada, we had November 2015, both the Liturgica also holds a biennial congress opportunity to hear about, and Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most and the two organisations have reflect on, the Anglican Church of Rev’d Justin Welby, and the normally met in nearby locations over Canada’s experience in dealing with Ecumenical Patriarch, His All- consecutive weeks. issues relating to the Canadian Holiness Bartholomew, received a Indian Residential copy of ‘In the Image and Schools. However, Likeness of God: A Hope-Filled that experience Anthropology’. tended to reinforce the necessity of any This document is an ‘Agreed corporate rites of Statement’ between Anglican and reconciliation being Othodox Churches on the theology of constructed locally the human person. and with input from In a joint communiqué, the two all affected parties. leaders said that the agreement “celebrates what Anglicans and Nevertheless, there Orthodox affirm together about the are hopes of human person, created in ‘the Image Members attending were from offering a generic structure and and Likeness of God’ and will form Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia, suggestions which might prove useful the theological foundation for Australia, Canada, England, Hong to those planning liturgies of forthcoming discussions on the Kong, Ireland, Japan, Korea, the corporate reconciliation. practical consequences of these Philippines, Scotland, the Solomon There were only two Australian theological presuppositions for Islands, Southern Africa, the United addressing the key themes, including States of America, Uruguay and Wales. representatives at the 2015 meeting, but ideally, more members of the the protection of the environment, Regrettably, cost and visa issues Australia’s Liturgy Commission medical interventions, and questions prevented many provincial should be present, as the Australian around family life and ethics.” representatives from attending. Some Church has a valuable contribution to The agreed statement was the notable absences were the majority of make. However travel costs are high culmination of six years of study on African and South American nations. and not all can afford the time away “what Anglicans and Orthodox can However, new guidelines now adopted from families and ministries. say together about the meaning of have opened up the possibility of We are grateful for some financial human personhood in the divine regionally based meetings, as well as image”. The International Commission holding our main meetings in locations assistance provided by the General Synod Standing Committee. for Anglican-Orthodox Theological specifically chosen to increase the Dialogue (ICAOTD) agreed on this possibility of wide participation. Dane Courtney Rector, Parish of Strathfield final text in September 2015. IALC has been the unofficial Photo: Consultation Members including: ICAOTD members said that the liturgy network for the Anglican agreement will form the basis for future Communion, and we are currently Dane Courtney - the back row, 4th from left (red shirt) ; Elizabeth Smith - seated at discussions and ongoing study in areas seeking to have that formalised. the front left (red & black stripes) such as bioethics and the sanctity of Its role is to encourage and life, as well as human rights and support conversation between the ecological justice. various Provinces around the world

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