TheAnglican Gippsland Volume 116, Number 11, December 2019 Published in Gippsland Diocese since 1904

John 1:14 From the Bishop TGA Index

From the Bishop 2 Expecting the unexpected

Prayer Diary 2 tt doesn’t get much of a suggests. There are many things As the mother of Perez, run in the lectionary table in Matt 1:1-17 that they would Tamar’s inclusion references Re-imagining church 3 of readings, even during expect to hear or read. the family dysfunction of at lay readers‘ conference I Advent when we might expect What those readers who Genesis 38. As the mother of

it, yet I love the genealogy that had all the great stories of the Boaz, Rahab is both prostitute Around the Diocese 4–8 opens Matthew’s gospel leading patriarchs and kings and priests and foreigner. As the mother For young disciples: 9 into the story of Jesus’ birth. in their cultural stockpile would of Obed, Ruth extends the Daniel Lowe: Matthew is our primary ‘gospel not expect, however, is that the ‘outsider’ motif, referred to Bishop Richard Treloar A marvellous universe or diet’ at the Eucharist in Year genealogy would be designated seven times in the short story just a Marvel universe? A of our three-year liturgical as that of the person whose that bears her name as ‘Ruth the upon this inheritance on the cycle, which ticks over on the name appears last – Jesus the Moabite’ – an ethnic ‘tag’ that basis of bloodline in the gospel Anglicare Fare: 9 First Sunday of Advent. If you Christ – rather than of the person excludes her from the Lord’s set for the second Sunday in Toys and food for families happen to attend a Eucharist whose name appears first in the assembly (see Deut 23:3). And Advent, ‘God is able from these at Christmas somewhere on Tuesday 17 line-up – in this case Abraham. as wife of Uriah the Hittite, the stones to raise up children to December you’ll get to hear Is this an early indicator of the mother of Solomon (Bathsheba) Abraham’ (Matt 3:9). Reflection: 10 it; otherwise, you may like ‘upside down’ values of the brings the skeleton in that royal As, with Ruth the perennial Marilyn Obersby: to take some time to read it kingdom that Matthew’s Jesus closet right into the foreground. ‘outsider’ brought ‘inside’, we The gift of years for yourself. will proclaim, in which the last King David, whose troubled prepare to turn once more to

We can think of it functioning will be first and first will be last and morally ambiguous lineage Bethlehem, let us bring before Editorial 10 a bit like John’s prologue, (Matt 20:16)? Jesus inherits in a theological that manger-throne of grace our

Lisa Campbell: 11 which we’re more familiar with Nor would they expect the sense if not a strictly biological stories – in all of their glory Singing, with joy, perhaps, and more likely to inclusion of four women in an one, as Matthew’s birth and dysfunction – our identity to the world hear in church this Christmas: otherwise all-male list – and narrative goes on to make clear, markers – which we and others an opening passage that sets not Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel and had Uriah the Hittite murdered have used to define us, for good Summer reading: 12 out some of the key themes of Leah either, the four standard on the battle field to cover up and for ill – and offer them up as Theology, love and a the great sweep of narrative matriarchs, although there are his treachery. the means by which God might community divided to follow. some twists and turns in their The message for Matthew’s continue to raise up children for There are several twists in stories as well. The women community – and for us – is one Abraham, including ourselves. Diocesan calendar 12 what first appears to be your Matthew quite deliberately of hope: God has been in the This Christmas, may we be typical biblical account of and skilfully weaves into the business of ‘raising up children open to the unexpected; for ancestry, of which there are early verses of his genealogy to Abraham’ with the help of it was in challenging all the ABOUT THE COVER dozens of examples between are Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and this mixed bag of progenitors, expectations of what it meant This Christmas mural was Old and New Testaments. I’m (referred to but not directly and also in spite of them. And and means to be a child of painted by the Yarragon woefully ignorant about my named) Bathsheba. Each carries with the birth of this ‘son of Abraham that Matthew’s Jesus Jaffas Kids’ Church under own family tree, but Matthew a descriptor, an identity marker David’, Matthew differentiates fulfils the law and the prophets the guidance of local artist expects his first audience to that points us to the heart of being a child of Abraham from (5:17). Even so, come thou Ross Jacka. be fully conversant with their Matthew’s message, and indeed being of the seed of Abraham. long-expected Jesus. Abrahamic heritage, as the the promise of this great season As John the Baptist will go on opening verse of his gospel The Gippsland in the life of the Church. to warn those who presume Anglican

Thank God for the Member of Australasian Religious Prayer Diary: beyond the parishes commitment of volunteers in Press Association “That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith...” (Romans 1:12) the Get Out for Good program Registered by Australia Post working with those being Print Post Number 34352/00018 123 CAFE Pray for the year ahead and worldwide Mothers’ Union released from prison. Pray those who visit in 2020; for the showing Christian care for for more in our parishes The Gippsland Anglican is the official Pray that our community of Sale surrounding fragile bushland families, with eight branches newspaper of and is published by to seek to be involved will find refuge, acceptance and lakes; for the wildlife who in Gippsland. Praise God The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland, with people who may and a place of comfort here at look for food. Pray for rain. for the many ways that 453 Raymond Street, 123; for continual wisdom in be marginalised in our Sale, Victoria, 3850. Mothers’ Union members communities, particularly www.gippsanglican.org.au our communication with those THE ANAM CARA COMMUNITY interact and become involved we work alongside; thanks those leaving prison, the The Anam Cara Community with their communities. Editor: Sally Woollett to the Lord for wonderful homeless, jobless and those has a small group of Praise God for the variety Tel: 0407 614 661 volunteers and young people with mental illness. Email: [email protected] servant leaders who of practical support, financial who add value while working Please pray for those Contributions are due by 15th of facilitate Quiet Days in giving and prayer support at 123; thank God for the involved in Foster and Kinship the month prior to publication Gippsland. The fortnightly that members undertake. prayer support and financial Care and for more volunteers email newsletter, Waterholes, Please pray that members Layout by Devine Design support of our community; and to care for vulnerable aims to provide spiritual will be encouraged to talk we ask the Lord for direction children. Pray for families Printed by Rural Press nourishment, communication about their involvement with and continued support. who are in conflict and The editor reserves the right and encouragement. Mothers’ Union to others in the struggling to make ends meet, of final choice and format of Pray for our servant leaders congregation. THE ABBEY particularly at Christmas. material included in each issue. in their planning for 2020 The Gippsland Anglican and ANGLICARE VICTORIA the editor cannot necessarily The Abbey, a Centre and for those who connect Please also pray for St verify any material used in this for Spirituality and the with the Community at Quiet Please pray for the work of Paul’s Anglican Grammar publication. Views contained in Environment on Raymond Days or through Waterholes, Anglicare Victoria in Gipps- School and Gippsland submitted material are those particularly those who find of contributors. Island, asks that we give land as we seek to resource Grammar School, the thanks for the gift and sacred themselves on the margins of and empower children, young Aboriginal Ministry of the Advertising Rates wonder of The Abbey and its the church. people and families. Pray for Rev’d Phyllis Andy and the Please contact the editor for all environment; for The Abbey mothers and children who Rev’d Kathy Dalton, the advertising submissions, costing ANGLICAN MOTHERS’ UNION and enquiries, including about Chapter, staff, supporters and have survived abusive families Registry staff, and Gipps- inserts in the newspaper. A full volunteers. God has blessed Anglican Mothers’ Union as they are supported in land Anglican Retirement advertising schedule can be sent out us richly. Australia is part of the rebuilding their lives. Living Ltd. upon request.

Page 2 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019 TGA Re-imagining church at From conference attendees Thank you so much for yesterday’s thought- lay readers’ conference provoking and enjoyable lay readers’ conference. Such events take not just time but a lot of work to prepare “and the input of many to make it a success. Tony Wicking It was a good day of learning, meeting new people and n a world that is constantly fellowship, the Matthew talk was great. changing, often at a rapid pace, how do we as a It was good to have the opportunity to explore Matthew’s I Gospel, and see the similarities the early church faced church continue to have an influence? We know we do not in relation to what Gil Cann is suggesting for us to hold the privileged position we acknowledge. once had. Many of us lament the decline, and wonder what The Red Alert seminar was an extremely interesting we can do. How can we re- discussion and hopefully will bear fruit that will encourage imagine church so that it can Christ’s new life into the His Body, the church. continue to have an effective place in our local community and the wider world? With this in mind, a conference entitled Re- LETTER TO THE EDITOR ” imagining Church was held at the cathedral in Sale on 26 Sharing the bipolar path October. The original idea for this came from the lay reader I refer to the Ven Sue Jacka’s article ‘Bipolar warrior’s training days held in June this path to better mental health’, about Trafalgar year. The lay readers wanted parishioner Jason Rantall (November TGA, p. 12). some information on Matthew, Photo: Merri Spalding This is something I share with Jason (not the running the gospel for 2020, so that they and exercising), but living with bipolar disorder, could better prepare sermons Lay reader May Kyne received her certificate acknowledging more than a most debilitating illness that often results they were to preach. To make 25 years of service from Bishop Richard at the conference in October in low self-esteem, misunderstanding and a day of it for those travelling The day began with a One of the points Gil makes alienation by those around you, including family long distances, we decided welcome by Bishop Richard, is that worship is everything that linking Matthew with Gil and friends. who linked the two we do every day. He asks Cann’s book Red Alert: Does As a priest in Holy Orders for more than 34 years, presentations. Both topics how can we bring our Monday the Future have a Church? my life changed for the worse in 1997 when I was address a time of upheaval and to Saturday into what we would be appropriate. Both first diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Mood swings controversy in the church. We do on Sunday. speak to a church in crisis. – from deep, deep periods of depression to sudden then broke off into two groups After the presentations, we uncontrollable highs – persisted, but gradually subsided. for the presentations. went into the cathedral for a Last year, I was discharged from my psychiatrist, The Rev’d Dean Spalding time of worship. This service spoke about Matthew’s gospel. was led by Denise Martin, and now instead I see my local doctor for the occasional This gospel was written at a lay reader from Mirboo lithium test (the drug used to stabilise mood swings). a time when the church was North. Music was led by the Like Jason, at times I was unbearable to live with facing great dissension as Operation Christ Kids youth or to be associated with. My behaviour was often it debated the inclusion of band from Drouin parish. unacceptable and mildly offensive, and although people gentiles into its midst. We David Chambers delivered a were caring and understood the nature of my illness, find that Matthew constantly message from Romans 12: 1-8, many were offended and reacted very negatively toward questions the old interpretation and Bishop Richard presented me. This was very hurtful as I knew I was not this person of scripture in the light of certificates to lay readers and it was the illness controlling my emotions, thoughts Jesus’ presence in the world, who have served more than and even the expression of faith in Jesus. for example the Sermon on 25 years. After I was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder, my the Mount and his constant bishop, the late Right Rev’d Dr John Wilson, kindly debates with the religious The Rev’d Tony Wicking paid for me to return to Ridley College to complete a leaders. In these debates Jesus is one of the Lay Reader Gil Cann’s Red Alert: Does challenges them to re-look at Chaplains and Locum at Bachelor of Ministry. As part of my course, I was offered the Future Have a Church? their tradition and hold it up Mirboo North. the opportunity to undertake a research project, so was frequently referenced in to what God desires. I chose ‘Christian pastoral care of people living with Bishop Richard’s presidential Gil Cann was unable to bipolar disorder’. address at this year’s Synod. address the conference so Essentially, pastoral care to people living with bipolar It was also the focus of this Rev’ds Jenny Ramage and disorder centres around the community of faith and year’s lay readers’ conference. Tony Wicking spoke to Red how Christians support each other in love, patience Copies are available from Alert. In his book, Gil Cann and kindness, and it is so good to see that this gilcann.com. encourages us to ask the same has been and continues to be at the heart of the pastoral hard questions. He says that ministry afforded Jason by members of the Trafalgar if we are prepared to ask and parish. Should you ask Jason why he feels so much better, GIPPSLAND DIOCESE honestly answer often unasked he may simply suggest it is the love of the Christian VACANCIES questions, the church will be community gathered around him. Well done, Jason – in a better place to continue to Mirboo North you are moving in leaps and bounds toward good have an influence in the world. Yarram Like the religious leaders of mental health! Wonthaggi / Inverloch Jesus’ times, we often hang on The Rev’d Canon Jeff Richardson, Traralgon Paynesville to a wrong traditionalism rather than living a faith tradition.

December 2019 The Gippsland Anglican Page 3 Around the Diocese TGA

Following the Eucharist knowledge of scripture. and prior to the dismissal, In reply, Edie described speeches were made St Peter’s as her family and to farewell Edie. Judy a significant part of her Rennick gave a witty and faith journey, noting that the engaging account of Edie’s vagaries of the ferry service appointment, ordination and between Raymond Island induction at St Peter’s in and Paynesville, a service on 2007, all within the context of which she relies, were in some floods and an unpredictable ways symbolic of the way we ferry service. experience God: sometimes Anne Tucker, the present accessible, sometimes not, Rector’s Warden, spoke of but a constant nevertheless. Edie’s impact in the parish June Treadwell presented and at the Abbey, applauding Edie with flowers, a prayer her capacity for hard work, book and an offering. multi-tasking, persistence The service was followed and stamina. She referred by drinks and music in the particularly to Edie’s support Quiet Garden and delicious of Indigenous relationships, finger food in Church House, refugees, her focus on provided by parishioners and prayer and immense by Deb and David Chambers. Students explore global

Ross Tucker (centre) receives a candle from Archdeacon Edie Ashley after his baptism: injustice issues “Shine as a light in the world to the glory of God.” Edie Ashley retires as rector of Paynesville Sue Fordham witty, incorporating Edie’s The New Testament Paynesville handover of her resignation reading was about faithful and the bishop’s appointment commitment and the gospel, n 27 October, the of her as Abbey Priest putting God before all date of Archdeacon for a renewable 12 months material things. OEdie Ashley’s 70th duration. Following the sermon, birthday, the people of The bishop reminded us the baptism of Ross Tucker, St Peter’s in Paynesville that the ministry required of then the confirmation of St Paul’s Year 11 students Alexander Grigoleit, Luke Ibbotson and Sophie Kovac gathered to say happy us by virtue of our baptism Ross Tucker and Mary making other students aware of the Fred Hollows Foundation birthday and a fond farewell knows no retirement date. Loreman, took place. Ross to their priest of 13 years. He emphasised the and Mary are two Year 11 students at St Paul’s these large corporations. It wasn’t a sad affair, importance of the day’s faithful adults who have Anglican Grammar School Hopefully this allowed with Bishop Richard readings to Edie’s ongoing been important parts of recently hosted an Ethics for students to have a presiding, a baptism and ministry. Both psalm and the parish family for a Expo to promote non- greater insight into how two confirmations within Old Testament reading number of years, and their government organisations organisations like Oxfam a Eucharist supported by concerned God’s care for commitment occasioned (NGOs) that address issues can assist those working excellent music. The bishop’s the environment, an activity quite a few tears in the of global injustice. across Australia, as well as sermon was relaxed and central to her Abbey work. congregation. After researching their assisting communities and chosen NGO, year 11 families impacted by mining students presented to year in Australia.” 7 students how these NGOs Year 7 students, who are deal with global injustice also completing a research issues and developed task on the question of activities for the younger justice, were able to gain students to demonstrate an understanding of how how they themselves can people put their beliefs assist these organisations in into action and develop an the future. empathy for what other Year 11 student Bellamy people in the world may O’Callaghan said, “For our need to deal with. group, looking into the NGOs promoted included organisation Oxfam, we Doctors Without Borders, alongside other students United Nations, Water gained more knowledge Aid, World Fair Trade about how Oxfam Australia Organization, Oxfam, The assists families of those Fred Hollows Foundation, working in large mining TEAR Australia, Thankyou, companies, as well as Operation Christmas Child, providing assistance to the Child Labour Coalition the communities around and the Oaktree Foundation.

Page 4 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019 TGA Around the Diocese

Christian meditation and enjoy Meet Gippsland’s new ordination candidate the experiences of InterPlay. I am one of the founding servant athleen (Kate) Over 20 years ago, a privileged time of deep leaders of the Gippsland Campbell is to be as someone who was reflection and prayer; all are Anam Cara Community. Many Kordained to the constantly on the unique and personal. rich opportunities! Distinctive (or Permanent) move with a strong Cursillo was a significant I completed Education Diaconate after attending sense of doing, I experience and I have for Ministry in 2003 and a Provincial Selection learnt to be still and appreciated ecumenical while I continue as a medical Conference in Melbourne in ‘listen’ for God in worship, especially in small secretary, I look forward to September. She tells us more communal silence. communities, although being further theological study next about herself here. It was through an Anglican lies at the heart of year through the University of I grew up in Sydney, was that experience I my faith – I think because of Divinity, Trinity College. baptised as a baby, attended recognised that my the inclusiveness. I joined the Diocesan Sunday School and was love of textiles and Life in my home parish at Discernment Group in confirmed in a church my Kate Campbell stitching is often St Paul’s is full and varied. August last year not knowing paternal grandfather helped prayer. I am a lay reader and have clearly what the discernment to build. When my daughter Amy was I can now easily get on with facilitated contemplative process would be, and I I enjoyed Inter School born I had a sense of ‘something things that need attention as groups since 2004, value am still part of the group. Christian Fellowship through- missing’ and her baptism was well as take and make pastoral administration, lead in After attending Selection out high school and a significant experience, as opportunities to sit still traditional and contemplative Conference in September after leaving school and was the baptism of my sons and ‘be’. worship, visit those who I now look forward to the beginning work with the Matthew and Ian. Following Not long after I moved to are housebound, host a ministry path before me in the Bank of New South Amy’s baptism I attended Sale in 2003, I was asked to home group, attend and lead Distinctive Diaconate. Wales I attended worship worship and participated make a stole for an ordination spasmodically as athletics in parish life wherever we candidate. That marked the became my focus. I was a were, as we moved around beginning of a special way At home but out of reach gifted hurdler and middle country New South Wales. of prayer with many other distance runner and had the I will always be grateful vestments, worship visuals Ken Parker opportunity to represent for the gift of becoming and more recently art exhibits. An alternative to a retreat Bunyip New South Wales – as a a mother and, these days, It is a great joy to hear is the practice of Quiet Days, consequence waratahs are a grandmother of five people’s stories and create which offer time out for special to me. beautiful grandchildren. a response in textiles – it is friend gave me a day at a time. The usual a copy of a most pattern of a Quiet Day is the interesting photo the offering of three teaching 1918 Armistice. Activities like A other day. Taken a century sessions, interspersed with Drouin parish to these have “been encouraging ago, it shows a large and times of silence and prayer. a culture of Gospel-focused earnest group of Gippsland Such will be the Quiet Day farewell Dean Spalding inclusion, community clergy gathered with their soon to happen in Bunyip. engagement, welcome and bishop at Bunyip for a retreat. As this issue goes to press, The Rev’d Dr Dean Spalding, Parish’s engagement with the intergeneration collaboration,” Clearly the tradition of clergy Bishop Richard will lead Rector at Christ Church Parish wider community in a number says Dean. retreats goes back a long way a day called ‘Ruminating in Drouin, will lay up his stole of events involving collaboration Paul Davine, Rector’s Warden around here. with Ruth’. He will teach in December in preparation with the Baw Baw Singers, the at Drouin parish, said, “We have About the same time, us something of the power to commence as a teacher of RSL, the CWA, the Gunai Kurnai been the beneficiaries of Dean’s I read an article in The of that great Old Testament mathematics and Christian peoples, The Ice Meltdown energy, commitment, gentle Weekend Australian by Susan story and encourage us to studies at St Paul’s Anglican Project (TIMP) and other local nature, humility and warm and Kurosawa called ‘Out of make connection with our Grammar School in Warragul groups and organisations.” friendly personality, to which reach’. She talked about the own lives. next year. He will also become Two of Dean’s personal we must add his profound love push for us all be on call for In Gippsland, we are licensed as an Assistant Chaplain highlights are a collaboration of God and God’s people, be 24 hours a day: blessed by the ministry of to St Paul’s. between the parish youth they churched or unchurched. In Japan, where I worked the Anam Cara community In a recent Ad Clerum, Bishop group Operation Christ Kids and Dean has also been a most for several years, a common (www.anamcaragippsland. Richard reflected, “Dean looks Mothers’ Union, just before Palm inspirational preacher and reply from an office operator org), which offers three back on his first Incumbency Sunday this year, to make palm teacher of God’s Holy Word was that so-and-so was ‘out Quiet Days across the year, as a fruitful season of ministry crosses, and the blessing of six and has brought the readings of space’. Another buoyant generally at Stratford, Sale at Drouin and Jindivick, Lyrebird commemorative golden elms, set for each Service to life expression, ‘out of reach’, and Morwell. Village and Amberlea, and a time planted in front of Christ Church with his scholarly, vivid and was popular too, and I liked In Bunyip too we offer of significant personal growth Drouin with the permission of entertaining presentation of the its sense of vagueness, which some Quiet Days. Next and professional development. the local RSL sub-branch for historical background and his suggested the person I was year, we have two special He has especially enjoyed the the 100th anniversary of the theological insights.” seeking was not much more experiences lined up. than an arm’s length away, Carol O’Connor from St but inaccessible all the same. Peter’s Eastern Hill will Kurosawa concludes, visit on 30 May and share “Of course, we could all be the remarkable insights of reckless and go OTM. Off Evelyn Underhill, a 20th- the map, that is. Yes, please.” century spiritual teacher. On To be ‘out of reach’ is key 24 October, John Stewart, to an annual retreat. As a an accomplished retreat young priest, I would go each leader, will teach about the year to the Retreat House at provocative medieval mystic Cheltenham for a time ‘out Meister Eckhart. of reach’ with my colleagues. The Rev’d Ken Parker is I try still to maintain that locum priest at St Thomas’ practice. Give thanks for the Bunyip. To find out more ministry of The Abbey at about the forthcoming Raymond Island and for the Quiet Days, contact regular retreats offered there. [email protected]. The Rev’d Dean Spalding with Drouin parishioners at the blessing of six commemorative golden elms for the 1918 Armistice centenary

December 2019 The Gippsland Anglican Page 5 Around the Diocese TGA

was as a duet by Walter and it for possible inclusion in the A Gippsland Carol, four years on Kath Willems at St James’ next revision of that hymn in Jindivick, on Christmas book. A recording of the Jim Connelly Carol’s recurring Eve in the same year, and West Gippsland Chorale’s ‘punchline’ for each later the same evening sung performance can be seen by of its four verses – as a congregational hymn at searching for A Gippsland n 2015, I wrote a Christmas “Christ has come Christ Church Drouin’s Carol on YouTube. reflection for TGA, in into the world.” Midnight Mass. which I lamented the local I was very happy A Gippsland Carol has The Rev’d Jim Connelly I since developed a life of its is an Honorary Canon. Bethlehem-based theme of with what Brian most of our Christmas carols. sent back to me, so own, having been sung in He prepared this article in I included in the article a the full score was many Gippsland Anglican collaboration with Brian poem, which I offered as an submitted to the and Uniting churches and at Chapman, who composed the illustration of the cosmic West Gippsland gatherings such as Probus music for A Gippsland Carol. aspect of Christ’s birth. Even Chorale, who kindly clubs. The compilers of For a full-size copy of the here, in these far-off, virginal decided to include The Australian Hymn Book/ musical score, please email southern parts of what was it in their 2016 Together in Song have accepted [email protected] to become Gippsland, surely Christmas concert. the creation was stirred to Soon after they its depths! began rehearsal, No trick … but what a treat! I suggested that the poem be it was felt that it sung as a Christmas carol to would be nice to Peter Finlayson so excited and had a great the tune of Beethoven’s Ode to have a descant part Leongatha time, with many activities Joy from his Ninth Symphony, added for the first conducted in the church and being cast in the same metre static four-part harmony, then sopranos to use for Approximately 90 children hall. as Schiller’s original German migrating to the relative major the final verse, which Brian descended on St Peter’s The event was brilliantly poem. I also approached (A flat major) with a more very happily supplied on Leongatha on 31 October led by Jackie and Jonathan concert pianist Brian Chapman decorated harmonic style – a request. Brian has named his for lots of fun without the Bowman, ably supported to see if he thought he might ‘darkness to light’ transition tune Brolga in recognition scary stuff. by a busy band of helpers, be able to compose a new tune of the kind frequently of one of the Gippsland bird The name for the event ensuring the children had to the same metre. encountered in Beethoven’s species mentioned in the text. was Light the Night, St Peter’s enough refreshments to Brian immediately saw music – and culminating with The first airing of A alternative to the other keep them happy. that the structure of the the final two bars (last line of Gippsland Carol (sung to the event called Halloween. This activity has been verses readily lent itself to each verse) being melodically tune of Beethoven’s Ode to On arrival, each child was running for three years and be matched with a tune that identical to the last two bars of Joy) was at St Paul’s in Sale, booked in with name tag and will get bigger as the word started off darkly in a minor Beethoven’s Ode to Joy theme, in 2016, while the first airing showbag. The children were spreads around. key (F minor) with fairly underpinning the Gippsland of the lyrics with Brian’s tune

Page 6 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019 TGA Around the Diocese

Region of Melbourne where Helping Gippsland evaluations have found that parents who participated had significantly greater families get on TRAK levels of confidence in their parenting as well as improved amily violence can individual members of family attachment and bonding take you a long way violence victim-survivors. with their children. Foff the track you Key workers will support Empowering parents and want for yourself and your victim-survivors to access children to find their way children. So Regional Director both individual and group back on track and looking for Anglicare Victoria in therapies. This may include forward to better tomorrows Gippsland, Tim Pedlow, was group programs such as is the core business of pleased to announce recently Children and Mothers in Anglicare Victoria and that it has obtained funding Mind, or individual counselling vital for building stronger to deliver a new program for and peer support groups. The and safer communities. survivors of family violence. model recognises that there is Practically speaking, this Therapeutic Recovery for no ‘one size fits all’ approach will also mean that Anglicare Adults and Kids (TRAK) to effective recovery from is recruiting new staff Forward will support victims family violence with the focus in both Morwell and of family violence and their on therapeutic interventions Bairnsdale to build the TRAK children through a range of and supports that promote Forward team. therapeutic interventions healing for individuals as well For more information on and will be delivered with as parent–child relationships. the TRAK Forward program, a number of partners such It is also aimed at meeting contact Rebecca Virtue or as the Salvation Army and the varied needs of victim- Regional Director of Anglicare in Gippsland, Tim Pedlow, with Sam Massey at the Morwell Windermere across inner and survivors who are culturally Rebecca Virtue, Program Manager for TRAK Forward in the region office (5135 9555). outer Gippsland. and linguistically diverse, TRAK Forward will be who have disabilities and/or TRAK Forward has already able to tailor programs to are of diverse sex, sexuality been running with great success suit the unique needs of and gender. in Anglicare’s Southern New Archdeacon for Eastern Region

New licence for Life Changing Radio he Rev’d Brenda her position as Archdeacon, Burney, Rector of she reflected, “I have Since its inception, radio has & Media Authority. This positive radio content and TBairnsdale, recently always had a special been a unique and important enables us to build on the reporting on local events. commenced the role of passion for youth and communication vehicle – from foundation and vision we Archdeacon of the Eastern children’s ministry – Region of Gippsland probably because my own transmitting coded messages have established over the last This translates practically Diocese. She has also faith was nurtured so well as in military combat, to shaping several years as a to our broadcast content, become an ex officio a young person. Another board for the station. with a focus on testimonies the culture of a nation member of Bishop-in- of my passions is helping through entertainment, to of changed lives of people in your community, and Council. the people in our parishes delivering political messages Our vision is to: Brenda is a member of to understand what it means encouraging, inspiring messages and declarations. the Safe Ministry Authority to be a safe church.” from local church pastors At Life FM we take our own • reach people with the and facilitates Safe Ministry Brenda’s Collation will place in the airwaves, with message of hope through and leaders. We broadcast workshops. In accepting take place on 1 February. our message of hope and the gospel of Jesus Christ positive, uplifting music, as counter-culture programming, well as discussion and insights • connect people with their as we reach out to people’s on current trends and political Creator God and His church hearts and minds within events from a God and bible- in the local community Gippsland. based perspective. This year, Life FM We cannot become • restore faith in the future stagnant in our interpretation successfully re-applied for and God’s purpose another five-year community of God and how we communicate Jesus to broadcasting licence to the • enrich and build our society; this is the exciting Australian Communications community through challenge ahead for Life FM. The potential to offer a positive alternative to the contemporary culture leading this generation into moral and social decline is huge. We are so appreciative of our supporters and volunteers, without which the station would not operate.

Michael Rowell is CEO at Life FM. To join the team, you can become a financial member, donor or advertising sponsor at www.lifefm.com.au. To volunteer, contact [email protected].

December 2019 The Gippsland Anglican Page 7 Around the Diocese TGA Making your funeral plans: cathedral workshop

Cynthia Grove we go to a solicitor to The booklet includes the issues that concerned Sale formalise this, and to make places to record your wishes each of us. How many hymns a will. about who is to be contacted, or other music? Hymns or wenty-two people After this, we looked at the who to invite to the funeral, popular music that might be attended a workshop Anglicare booklet Ensuring where important papers are important to you? Readings – T in November at St Peace of Mind: My Personal kept and how you wish to be how many, how long or short? Paul’s in Sale on planning Wishes for Remembrance remembered (symbols of your Eulogy or tributes? Cremation your own funeral. Dean (courtesy of Cathrine Muston). life (for example medals, art or burial? Full church Susanna led us through Some of the questions in or craftwork) – whatever is funeral service, Eucharist or the Medical Treatment and the Anglicare booklet were appropriate for you). graveside committal? There Planning Act 2019, which both necessary and quite The third journey was were many questions and takes full effect in March challenging. How well do through the funeral service many different ideas. next year. We heard about those who are left know you? described in A Prayer Book for This is just a brief overview the importance of choosing Will they be able to provide Australia with its variations. of the session and I do hope a medical treatment decision enough information to allow We talked about funerals we that another session will maker, who can make mourners to honour the real had attended or planned, both follow soon for those who medical decisions if we are you? Two other interesting people don’t know about me is the good aspects and those not could not make this one. So not able to. This person points to consider were …” I thoroughly recommend so good; it was an emotional much needs to be thought should make decisions “Some of the proudest this booklet and congratulate time as we each recalled about and it is easier to do it consistent with our beliefs moments in my life are …” those who put it together; previous losses. well before there is a need. and wishes. It was suggested and “Something that most thank you. We moved on to discuss Thank you, Susanna.

provide a welcoming face Recognising the value to everyone. Solace and peace People often visit op shops as a social outlet. Those of of volunteers us who work in op shops on All Souls’ Day also seek friendship through Alice Weatherall he All Souls’ Day She spoke of the importance We are very blessed with this work. It’s a matter of Moe–Newborough the quantity and quality of service at St Paul’s in of honouring our ancestors extending this sense of all the donations. We are friendliness further where we Sale on 2 November and reflecting on life T On a very wet and blustery more than just opportunity can. When we take the time was a deeply moving time and death. day in November, we had shops. We are a family for to listen to others, we of prayer and remembrance. A list of those who people the pleasure of the company each other and an outreach recognise their value as Dean Susanna spoke of All knew who have died in of Bishop Richard at our to the community, with a people as we are also the Souls’ Day, and the South this past year, and of those parish council morning tea to listening ear for people who medium for our ministry, an American ‘day of the dead’. they wanted to remember, thank volunteers, held at the are lonely or in need; we extension of our church. was read out, and Newborough Bowling Club. candles were lit The Rev’d Sathi Anthony in remembrance. introduced Bishop Richard to Cathedral organist our volunteers and thanked Anthony Hahn played him for taking the time out of his busy schedule to visit and some beautiful, quiet share time with us. music. The Rev’d Bishop Richard spoke about Lyn Williams put the value of opportunity shops, together the liturgy. not only in raising much- The service meant needed funds to resource a lot to those who are local ministry and community grieving, providing projects, but also as gathering solace and peace. places themselves where After the service, people can experience a sense a wonderful supper of community, reminding was shared. us that ‘assembly’ – coming together – is at the heart of the meaning of the word ‘church’. Bishop Richard thanked all of A place of solace our volunteers for their vital at St Paul’s in Sale role in our community. during the All We are most fortunate Bishop Richard and volunteers at the thank you morning tea Souls’ Day service to have a fabulous band of held in Newborough in November volunteers from our three opportunity shops, which run five days a week; and Trinity House, which has a garage sale bi-weekly. Our volunteers run everything smoothly, from sorting out the enormous pile of donations that come through the door and donation bin, ensuring we are only selling the best quality stock, to keeping the shops stocked with rotated items.

Page 8 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019 TGA For young disciples

precedence over people. Meaningless activities will A marvellous universe or overtake our lives.” A year 10 student expressed this feeling more bluntly in a recent just a Marvel universe? written piece on the topic of purpose: “I often try to avoid thinking about deep questions Daniel Lowe the difficult questions of Perhaps our constant as I believe that I should not real life? In his book consumption of entertainment spend the entirety of my as Captain America Advance Australia…Where?, and social media is in part life dreading over useless worthy of wielding social researcher Hugh an anaesthetic to numb the thoughts.” Daniel Lowe WThor’s hammer? Mackay tells of attending fear of discovering that life is But all is not lost. While we Who is better, PewDiePie or a dinner party where he ultimately without meaning do find many young people T-series? Is Luke the biggest found himself “seated beside or purpose? Perhaps the loss retreating into the distractions before them a vision of hope; threat on Survivor? Ask most a charming, articulate, of trust in so many of the of the entertainment world, and, in the Apostle Paul’s groups of young people these professional woman who spent institutions that have given we also see young people words, to help them “not be questions and chances are you most of the evening telling me security to past generations bravely stepping up and conformed to this world, but be will get an animated response about her home renovations, (such as banks, churches and grappling with life’s tough transformed by the renewing from at least one of them. including her new bathroom.” parliaments) has left young issues head-on. Some find of their minds” (Romans When it comes to matters of He goes on to say, “It struck people so unanchored and themselves on the world 12:2). And where do we start? entertainment and popular me that our endless quest adrift that they simply aren’t stage, such as climate activist Perhaps with this piece of culture, young people are for the perfect bathroom tile equipped to face the deeper Greta Thunberg or champion advice from the writing of very informed and more than might have become a way of questions of life? Author of women’s education Malala another year 10 student: willing to debate and discuss distracting ourselves from Mark Sayers puts it this way: Yousafzai. Others are quietly Take each day, as a blessing the merits of their views. some other, larger question.” “With religion off the agenda, doing amazing things in their An opportunity to spread On the one hand, this is Look around any public our culture finds new avenues own neighbourhoods. the love that’s within good news. Critical thinking space and you will see people of devotion and distraction Our role as parents and Let’s not take each other’s skills are one of the top skills immersed in their screens with … Millions of hours in the educators is to nurture company for granted employers say they want in the ubiquitous earphones as twenty-first century will be these young people; to put And start appreciating their employees. On the other permanent fixtures on most spent working through DVD boundaries on the distractions life more than our feeds. hand, could this be a hint of ears. It is no wonder we are TV series, scanning social (yes, the screen time battle the great mask of distraction well versed in the concerns of network sites, gorging on continues); to reassure The Rev’d Daniel Lowe is we have built around popular culture, but is it all a celebrity gossip, downloading them that life is not without Senior Chaplain at St Paul’s ourselves to avoid confronting big avoidance strategy? music … Things will take purpose or meaning; to put Anglican Grammar School.

board games, Lego and gift If your parish or community Anglicare Fare vouchers to the value of group would like to contribute $15. Food required must to the appeal, donations be non-perishable and can be picked up from your within its ‘best before’ area. For further information Toys and food for families date by six months. on donations, please contact We ask that donated toys either Susan Hughes at are new and unwrapped. Anglicare’s Morwell office at Christmas Please also note that we do (5135 9584) or Cathrine not require any donations of Muston (0458 450 370) Cathrine Muston, Anglicare Development Officer, Parish Partnerships teddy bears. in Warragul.

Gippsland Grammar year 7 coordinator Glen Dihood, Chaplain Rev’d Jackie Belot, Anglicare Development Officer Cathrine Muston and year 7 class captains with the donated goods collected so far for the Anglicare Victoria Toy and Food Appeal Every year, Anglicare Victoria the generous donations from and businesses throughout makes sure that every child the local community. Our Gippsland also support the we work with receives a gift Anglican schools – St Paul’s appeal. As the demand for at Christmas, and every family Anglican Grammar School hampers grows year on year, receives a food hamper to help and Gippsland Grammar we are in constant need of them to celebrate. – contribute a significant more donations, especially in Last year in Gippsland, we amount of food and toys, the area of gifts for teenagers. were able to provide nearly which we are always happy If you would like to donate 500 families with gifts for to receive, along with to the Toy and Food Appeal for Year 3 students at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School are getting creative about Christmas in the art room. Anson Law at the Traralgon their children and hampers for help in sorting and packing 2019, some suggestions for campus was particularly excited to know that his reindeer artwork their tables. This was made the hampers. toys are soccer balls, footballs would appear in the newspaper possible in part because of Many faithful people and other sports equipment,

December 2019 The Gippsland Anglican Page 9

TGA Reflection Once, while on retreat as a school St Deiniol’s Library in North Wales chaplain, I experienced God telling in 2009. My spirituality is very Celtic The gift of years me, with great joy, how much He and mystical, and I identify deeply loved me. My head had never had any with my Anglican roots. As I said problem accepting that, but deep down at the beginning, my future is an Marilyn Obersby service at my local parish church, St I never felt I could be worthy of God’s unknown path, but seeing how God Anne’s Ryde, in Sydney. It was part love. From that day on, I have known has been guiding my journey so far, I of the Old Testament reading for the in the deepest part of me that I (along am content to go wherever God may aving recently turned 70, it day, and had a profound effect on me. I with everyone else) am loved by God, take me in the future. I am content, suddenly dawned on me that discovered later that it was a very well just as I am. So when I was offered because I know who I am and Whose HI had reached the age of three known verse and was often regarded ordination a few years later, I knew I am. score years and ten, that age in the Old as being connected to God’s call to that God had opened that pathway to Two sayings sum up how my life Testament deemed to be generally our ministry of some kind, especially me, and I was worthy to take that path, as a follower of Jesus Christ has human life span, if things went well! ordained ministry. It was Isaiah 6:8 wherever God led me. The next part of been and will continue to be. One is Up to this point, I had taken life more – “Also I heard the voice of the Lord my journey brought ordination to the by American journalist and Catholic or less for granted but now I realise I saying: ‘Whom shall I send, and who diaconate in Gippsland on St Luke’s convert Dorothy Day: “One of the am actually old! In some ways, that is will go for us?’ then said I, ‘Here am I. Day in 1996, followed by my priesting disconcerting facts about the spiritual a scary thought, because I have no idea Send me.’” Isaiah was volunteering to on St Barnabas’ Day in 1998. life is that God takes you at your what lies ahead in my future. serve God. Since then, I have been privileged word.” The other is by British author I am grateful for my life, and I remember feeling very excited by the to minister in the Diocese of and theologian Ian Bradley: “Taking becoming aware of how many years words, and saying inside myself, “Send Gippsland in various parishes risks, letting go, casting off, trusting and days I have been privileged to me, send me!” The next meaningful and capacities as a deacon, then to God – all these are suggested by spend on this amazing planet, I began step for me was discovering Christian priest. With the Reverend Caroline the metaphor of pilgrimage.” I pray to reflect on the gift of my years, to community in the early seventies in Nancarrow, I organised and led two that I will continue to be a pilgrim, look back and see how God has been Sydney via the House of the New groups of people on a Celtic Christian whatever that may entail. in my life’s journey up to now and to World for seven years, then as part of Pilgrimage to the UK and Ireland, wonder where I might be going from the House of the Gentle Bunyip for in 2004 and 2008, as well as acting The Rev’d Marilyn Obersby this point on in my pilgrimage. nine years in Melbourne, before I came as chaplain to the community at is Associate Priest at Traralgon. It would take a book to go through to Gippsland. It was then I completed the significant events of 70 years but my a Bachelor of Divinity through the EDITORIAL spiritual journey has been influenced at Melbourne College of Divinity. some important points by some verses Although I was certainly unaware of Music and silence of scripture and some wise writings. the significance of the Isaiah verse as So I hope that sharing a couple of those a six year old, I know that God took Across the road from St Paul’s Cathedral in Sale is the recently opened historic insights and their impact on me might me at my word even then, and guided water tower in Victoria Park, designed by John Grainger, father of musician speak to others’ spiritual journeys as my steps through the years, through and composer Percy Grainger. John had fond memories of attending the opera well. my school days on to university and with his uncle, whom he lived with in England before coming to Australia, The first occasion on which I was into teaching French, English, German and listening to “discussions of the world’s affairs” between his uncle and aware of a verse from scripture, I was and Biblical Studies in Sydney and theologian Cardinal Newman. Grainger arranged the first string quartet in only six years old, in church for the Melbourne and into school chaplaincy Adelaide and, among many projects, designed Dame Nellie Melba’s Coombe first time at a special Sunday school in Gippsland. Cottage, in Coldstream. My visit to east Gippsland coincided with a rainy respite from the very dry spell in the region. The amphibious residents were as elated as the human ones, and during the evenings I listened to a symphony of calls and responses. It was a loud and persistent chorus, and so the lulls, however brief, were always noticeable. Those who are musically minded will know that music is as much about silences as it is about sounds – not only where and how long they are, but what they represent. Is a silence a pause for breath, a chance to rest, or a collective waiting? Is it tense and charged, or does it bring a sense of release? After listening to a St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School student play The Last Post on 11 November, I reflected on the power of silence as a collective mark of respect. As a member of the West Gippsland Chorale, I am fortunate to be able to perform in the acoustic space of Wesley of Warragul. Powerful choral music such as Faure’s Requiem continues to resonate in my mind long after it has ceased to resonate on stage. The acoustic qualities of the space are a tribute to the original designer, says architect Audun Pedersen, who was involved in the extension and restoration of the building. The Warragul Heritage Preservation Association bought the former Methodist Church in Victoria St from the Uniting Church of Australia in 2002. The relatively long reverberation time is particularly suited to choral performances, Audun tells me. “I am not sure if ecclesiastical music derived out of the acoustic properties of ecclesiastical architecture, or if ecclesiastical architecture developed in part to reflect ecclesiastical music,” he says, “but the two go together, giving voice to the richness and depth associated with choral music and organ music.” The result is very evocative, we both agree. On page 11, choral enthusiast and former member of West Gippsland Chorale Lisa Campbell writes of the therapeutic and joyful aspects of singing, and on page 5 the Rev’d Ken Parker of Bunyip reminds us of the benefits of silence, among other musically themed contributions this month. I hope you have time to appreciate or express these siblings of music – sound and silence – at this busy but special time of year. Sally Woollett

Page 10 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019 TGA

fluctuations can synchronise Singing, with joy, during group singing. Emotional and psychological wellbeing increase through to the world the release of endorphins, which lift mood, reduce muscular tension and reduce Lisa Campbell To be part of a choir stress by lowering cortisol requires patience, kindness levels in the bloodstream. ow! New music and dedication. As choristers, Anxiety, depression and anger distributed at we explore challenging new can all decrease as singing Wchoir! Excited, I musical horizons during provides a constructive join the group to see which rehearsal to give our best outlet for exploration of choral pieces are familiar performances. In return, feelings. Mental alertness and and which are new. Are audiences (or the conductor!) concentration increase partly there any in French, German, may smile sigh, clap, get teary, because of increased oxygen Björn Vickhoff and Rickard Åström’s research demonstrates that heart rate Latin or Italian, perhaps even or stand to cheer. We can voice to the brain but also because fluctuations can synchronise during group singing Spanish? People are milling human emotions including you must produce sound while around, laughing and sharing love, joy, anger and excitement simultaneously listening and the week’s news. Choristers through music – a primal and blending with other choristers. are greeted with smiles, laughs wonderful experience. To imagine a sound, make it and nods. Updates about The health benefits of emanate from your body and births, sickness, promotions, group singing are many. know that it is totally unique to moving to a new house and Physical benefits include a you is creative and incredibly holidays are shared. boost in immunity; exercise empowering. Choral singing The conductor takes the for the lungs, diaphragm also reduces isolation. It fosters podium, and warm-ups and intercostal muscles; friendship through a sense begin. We stretch to release stimulation of the circulatory of belonging, and through our muscles; we breathe and system; and improved cooperation, trust, care, respect begin focusing our minds on posture and sleep. During and support for other singers. the vibrations that begin deep some types of group singing, Confidence, empathy and self- inside our bodies. Humming, the heart rate fluctuations esteem increase as choristers vowel sounds, consonant of participants reach learn new songs and texts. exercises, gradual increases synchronicity. Björn Vickhoff, From a spiritual perspective, in volume from pianissimo at the Centre for Brain Repair there is something universally to forte. Our ears and the rest and Rehabilitation at the appealing about group singing. nativity in our hearts and bright” is a metaphorical of our bodies tune into the University of Gothenburg in It is part of cultures worldwide. minds. It can strengthen our reminder that within each of swell of the sound enveloping Sweden, found this to be true Sound memories are special. faith, if we reflect on the us is a bright vibrant spirit the entire choir. Harmony during his research. Singing Just like certain smells words and allow them to that can radiate gentleness, is created as soprano voices together is often an act of evoke memories, feelings permeate our spirits and care and compassion if we soar into the heavens, basses collective will, he says: “One and images, so does singing deepen our convictions. continue to fan these flames anchor from below, and need only think of football music. You always remember Hymns such as While within ourselves. altos and tenors add spice stadiums, work songs, hymn the music you have played Shepherds Watched Their In Joy to the World, the in between. Nothing quite singing at school, festival or sung. Flocks By Night and We Three lines “the Lord has come, describes the beauty of being processions, religious choirs Christmas music is a Kings recall the birth of Jesus let earth receive her King, immersed in a sea of different or military parades. Research touchstone of the inner spirit. as being for all people. Just let every heart prepare Him voices. We are united in shows that synchronised rites It enables us to relive the as these people followed the room, And heaven and nature sound, working together to contribute to group solidarity.” star, we learn that sing” ask us to contemplate achieve the conductor’s vision Björn Vickhoff’s research the journey of faith the birth of Christ, and his of the composer’s music. demonstrates that heart rate requires commitment place in our lives; to learn to to following recognise that inner guiding the teachings of voice and, when nudged, lend the Saviour and a helping hand, a listening that, from humble ear or a caring smile. These beginnings, spiritual are practical manifestations growth occurs. of faith for the world The sheer beauty to witness. and simplicity of So, this year during Advent, the hymn Silent join a choir, sing in church, Night stirs within sing with recorded music, us a sympathetic listen to beautiful choirs replication of the performing Christmas music, feelings of Mary and and allow the words to infuse Joseph. It suggests your spirit with hope, love, that faith is a simple peace and joy. and uncomplicated matter, needing great Lisa Campbell is a love and devotion, qualified music teacher who like that required of is currently having classical parents and carers voice lessons and enjoys towards children. singing in choirs. She lives “All is calm, all is in West Gippsland.

December 2019 The Gippsland Anglican Page 11 Summer reading

Diocesan calendar Theology, love and December 13, 15 West Gippsland Chorale Christmas concert. a community divided 8:00 pm Friday and 2:00 pm Sunday. Tickets at the door or trybooking/573709

Richard Prideaux Israel’s story (p. 101: “Jesus and events that are part of 15 Yarram Scripture Union family mission was a Jew … he longed for our lives at our deepest level (Kids’ Bible Club). Holy Trinity Church, the renewal of Israel not its and in a way that we find we Cnr Gipps St and Commercial Rd, Yarram. o many folk are in book extinction!”), Jesus as judge really care about. Two Miles www.suvic.org.au/program-information clubs these days that it – such an unpopular notion Franklins and being an overall Sis difficult to come up in Western society today, winner of the Commonwealth 22 8:00 pm: Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. with a good read that hasn’t and Jesus as a friend in spite Writer’s Prize can only come The Bunyip Singers help present this beautiful already been widely read. of his scandalous social with enduring hard work traditional carol celebration. St Thomas’ Bunyip, So I will bypass Michele life! Dickson’s treatment is and genius. Miller has both 16 A’Beckett Rd, Bunyip Obama’s Becoming, Anh relevant and surprising. This in spades. Do’s The Happiest Refugee, is quirky, bouncy, hard-to- My best way to encourage 22 8:00 pm: Ecumenical carol service. Leigh Sales’ Any Ordinary put-down theology that will readers to take up The St Paul’s Cathedral, Cunninghame St, Sale Day, Sarah Krasnostein’s The undoubtedly alter the way Passage of Love is to use his Trauma Cleaner and Tara you think about your own words: “Every one of us 28 Lakes Entrance Theos (until 3 January). Location TBC. Westover’s Educated. These Christian faith. betrays something. Everyone www.suvic.org.au/program-information are all compulsory! who is compelled to search for 29 Mallacoota Theos and Scripture Union family mission meaning and purpose in his Here, I will review three (until 9 January). Mudbrick Pavillion, Mallacoota life is forced by circumstances Camping Ground (Theos) and Mallacoota Oval, books I really enjoyed reading to betray his finest hopes. We this year. 20 Greer St (SUFM), Mallacoota. all founder in our struggle to www.suvic.org.au/program-information find our way. Our way to our own truth. Success in the end 29 Tidal River Theos and Scripture Union family is to survive these repeated mission (until 9 January). Tidal River Campground, failures” (p. 358). 23rd Avenue, Tidal River, Wilson’s Promontory. www.suvic.org.au/program-information

January Various dates Scripture Union family camps, Camp Coolamatong, 38 Cranswick Rd, Banksia Peninsula. The Passage of Love www.suvic.org.au/camps by Alex Miller 5 9:30 am: Epiphany celebration. Come reflect on My favourite Australian the wisdom of the Magi and on your own journey. A Doubter’s Guide to author is Alex Miller, all St Thomas’ Bunyip, 16 A’Beckett Rd, Bunyip Jesus of whose 12 novels I have by John Dickson greedily devoured, including February the entrancing The Ancestor John Dickson is a popular Game, and the riveting Autumn Carpentaria 1 11:00 am: Ordination of Belinda Seabrook to and articulate Christian Laing, which, in places, by Alexis Wright the Diaconate, and Collation of the Ven Brenda communicator and his A tracks the extraordinary and Burney as Archdeacon of the Eastern Region. Doubter’s Guide to Jesus: outrageous career of Sydney Alexis Wright’s demanding St Paul’s Cathedral, Cunninghame St, Sale An Introduction to the Man Nolan. Miller’s most recent Miles Franklin winning from Nazareth for Believers novel is The Passage of Carpentaria (Artarmon, 2 9:30 am: Candlemass. St Thomas’ Bunyip, and Skeptics (Grand Rapids, Love (Melbourne, Allen & Giramondo, 2006) is a 16 A’Beckett Rd, Bunyip Zondervan, 2018) speaks Unwin, 2017), which is his powerful and consuming novel 2 10:30 am: St Philip’s Cowes combined service. directly to a now entrenched own extensive autobiography about her northern Australian Service of Holy Communion, guest preacher anti-Christian Western before his marriage. homeland surrounding the Gulf the Dean of Melbourne, the Very Rev’d intellectual community. In I think I enjoyed this work of Carpentaria. The setting Dr Andreas Loewe, St Philip’s Cowes, his introduction, Dickson so much because I found it of the novel is the fictional 102 Thompson Ave, Cowes. 0490 831 299, describes Jesus as a “complex, curious to think through how mining town of Desperance, [email protected] multi-layered and at times this young, unhappily schooled a remote community divided contradictory figure.” This Englishman who emigrated to by an upwardly socially is not the Jesus we usually Australia in early adulthood mobile white community encounter in weekly sermons. and spent a considerable (Uptown) led by the racist and – Norm Phantom’s mob in thing Joseph Midnight, the He is deliberately not writing amount of time in the violently corrupt mayor Stan Pricklebush on one side and Bohemian priest Danny with an apologetic book, full Australian outback somehow Bruiser and the ineffectual every other Indigenous family his souped up black Valiant, of the latest ‘Christian’ managed to become a world- and sleazy policeman Truthful. on the other (the Westsiders). and many others. Wright’s responses to the new atheist renowned, sophisticated, Uptown is supported by the The writing has elements deft touch includes mystery, challenge. Instead he focuses learned and deeply sensitive mine, and its politely racist of magic realism intertwined wonder, humour, spirituality, on the scholarly literature analyst of human behaviour families would prefer the with ancient Aboriginal pathos and hope all mixed up about Jesus, using pagan, who simply captures readers Indigenous community to lore of the bush and 20th- in a kaleidoscope of colour Roman and Jewish historical and takes them to places either come over to their side or century realities. Key figures and mixed emotions. A novel data and New Testament within themselves they would just go away. The dispossessed include the anti-mine terrorist that requires staying power sources as they are used not have thought possible. Indigenous community is Will Phantom, the sexy and but rewards deeply. by mainstream secular Miller is the writer of also divided within itself sleazy Angel Day, the prophetic historians today. dreams becoming reality and by ancient family feuds cult leader Mozzie Shipman, Richard Prideaux is Major chapter headings about love that really matters. between families who live on the tragic fisherman Elias, the a licensed lay reader include the Christian story as He writes about moments different sides of the town old man who knew every- at Bass/Phillip Island.

Page 12 The Gippsland Anglican December 2019