SPRING ISSUE 18 DECEMBER 2016
NSW Ecumenical Council Sharing
NEWSLETTER OF THE NSW ECUMENICAL COUNCIL INCORPORATED
Inside this issue
Christmas Message ...... 2 4th International Conference Congratulations to Rev Claire Wright ...... 24 From the Editor’s Desk ...... 3 on Receptive Ecumenism ...... 12 ACERO Telethon ...... 24 Heads of Churches meeting, held at the Armenian Common Grace ...... 14 A Modern Slavery Act for Australia ...... 25 Apostolic Church ...... 6 Second Annual Community Peace Dinner . . . . . 16 Activites of the Council ...... 26 Mosman Council: Nomination of Citizen of the Year Safe as Churches Conference ...... 17 Christmas Bowl ...... 27 Alison Vickery… ...... 9 Domestic Violence – Are Friends Aware . . . . . 18 In the Wake of Terror in Cairo: Visit of the Anglican Primate of Egypt and the The Blood of the Martyrs, the Tears Horn of Africa, Bishop Mouneer Anis to Sydney . 20 of the Church ...... 10 Kur-ring-gai Inter Church Group ...... 22 Chirstmas Messages Bishop Greg Thompson – Anglican Diocese of Newcastle
How will they celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem this year? With a message of peace. Online news accounts tell of the Mayor of Bethlehem leading the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 4 this year. The Christmas tree at the heart of this event can be found in Manger Square, Bethlehem, in front of the Church of Nativity. The message of peace has long been associated with the celebration of Christmas, for this long been one of the great hopes of God’s people. We long for peace in our world, peace in our neighbourhoods and families, and peace in our own lives. The good news of Christmas is a message of peace. At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Christ. It was amazing to those who first witnessed the birth of Jesus and heard the promises around him that this hope of peace could be fulfilled in a tiny baby. As the baby grew it was equally amazing that the promise of peace could be fulfilled in one who embodied gentleness, forgiveness, faithfulness and truthfulness. And yet history tells that the most powerful messages of peace, justice and hope were embodied in exactly these things. How can this be? Because in Jesus we encounter God with us – a truth that changes everything. My hope and prayer for Christmas 2016 is that you may find God’s transforming peace in your place, and that you might also be an agent of that peace for someone else.
Randall Gauger - Bishop, Bruderhof Australia Advent and Christmas are a time of expectation – a time for us to pray and long for a new dawning of joy and peace on earth. This will happen through the second coming of Jesus Christ. He came 2,000 years ago to reconcile us to God and open up the way to a new life. Until He comes again we have the task to proclaim the truth that Jesus is the one way to the Father and that He alone can give each human soul forgiveness and purpose. Jesus wants to break into our lives, our churches, and everywhere on this earth to bring peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness. He can restore broken relationships and heal every sin and hurt. Let us be bold in proclaiming that wonderful message! We send our very best wishes for the New Year to each member church.
2 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER Bishop Mark Lieschke – Lutheran Church Australia – NSW & ACT
InRegions these days we celebrate once again the Son of God becoming a human being. He came down to our level. He identified completely with us. He experienced the joys and high moments of life as well as the pangs of grief, loneliness and temptation. He shared our blood, sweat and tears, and faced all and more than what any one of us will ever have to face. We celebrate the unique intervention of God in human history. In the person of Jesus, we see what God is really like. We see God’s character, his love for us, his commitment to us, and the sacrifice he was willing to make for us. Jesus is the exalted King of the universe who descended to the lowliest of positions, so that those in the lowliest positions may be exalted into the presence of the King of the universe. May Christ give you joy as you celebrate and share this precious message again this Christmas. But he wasn’t the kind of person that the people expected or wanted. He was misunderstood and was put to death by the very people he came to save. He knew that this would happen, but came anyway. He came because of his intense love for us. He came and lived and suffered and died as a human being. He came to take on himself the punishment that we deserved because of our sin. He came to rescue us and to give us eternal life. I’m not sure that I could identify with a God who never shared any of my struggles. I’m not sure that Jesus miraculously descending from heaven on a cloud, as some kind of superman would be quite the same. Jesus experienced what it means to be human. He was like us in all things except sin. Divisional Commander NSW/ACT Divisional Commander The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory
Friends, What amazes you? I can think of plenty of things, both good and bad. However, let’s focus on the good things that “amaze” us. I am amazed.... -by the beauty and innocence of children. They capture my heart. -at creation. Just stunning -that Jesus loves me -by His love, grace, goodness -by Him! -when someone’s life is transformed by Jesus -by the gift of family and friends -when I look into the sky at night -at the beauty of the sun rising and setting -that the tides come in and out -at love, peace, joy, hope -when my family gather at Christmas time -when a child gets excited by new discoveries There is so much to “amaze” us, so much to capture our hearts. It is quite stunning really. Back, at the birth of Jesus, this was the reaction of those who heard about the birth of Jesus...(Luke 2:18) “All who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them” “All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished” “....seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child/ All who heard the sheepherders were impressed” I want to be constantly amazed, astonished and impressed by Jesus. He is the reason for the season. Take time to enjoy Him, to be amazed by Him, to love Him, to listen to Him, to respond in love to Him. He is pretty amazing.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
4 SHARINGBless | ISSUE you #18 heaps SUMMER From the Editor’s Desk Very Rev Fr Shenouda Mansour
I remember the beginning of the year of 2016. How quickly the year as gone past us. In 2016, there has been lots of good work achieved by the Council’s five Commissions. Without doubt, it is the family of ecumenists and ambassadors of the Kingdom of God that work so tirelessly within each of the Commissions for the Glory of God. What can ecumenism offer me as an individual? The Ecumenical movement actually offers the Christian faithful an opportunity to live the Gospel of Christ. Question may lie in your mind, how? Through invitation and engagement in church activities and events, the churches are given opportunities to witness and see, listen and hear, and share each other’s traditions. It is a great wonder that we realise there are more common denominator than difference. We all share the same joy and feeling towards Jesus Christ and God. We all have dreams to further the Kingdom of God within our communities and the local community where we serve. It is strange to see that we are all made in the image of God. If this is the case, then, why are we at times scared to make a plunge and do things together in the spirit where we are able to agree and work for the common good for the Glory of God. It may lie in the aspect where each church is struggle with church identity and denominational difference. If ecumenism gives the faithful an opportunity to live the Gospel, then, what about the interfaith dialogue and engagement with non-Christian living faiths? There will be those that will use the Biblical text, ‘we should have dealings with those who do not profess Jesus’. Today, we all hear the wonderful work of God all over the world. If scripture is written for all ages and for all the enjoy and hear the Gospel, then, the words of scripture is as applicable today as it was then. Those words were uttered by…. when it was said, who shall I send? Well, interfaith gives us all the opportunity to practice the Gospel. For, the Gospel tells us to love those who are different to us. How can I engage with those who are much different to me and to you? The interfaith engagement and dialogue allows the churches to do just that, for it allow us to be in engage with many different people who will never have the opportunity to meet with good church leaders, as yourself. You are doing the will of God. You are ambassadors of Christ. You are ambassador for the Word of God. You are consulates for your local ecumenical and interfaith movement in your area. You are doing the work of God for the Glory of God. To keep our feet on the ground, we are reminded of Paul’s words, ‘one sows, one waters and God does the growing’
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 5 Heads of Churches meeting, held at the Armenian Apostolic Church
The Heads of Churches meeting is held twice in the Middle East or will it need to continue a year and is attended by the Heads or their and survive outside the Middle East because representatives of the member churches of of radical Islam? the NSW Ecumenical Council. The place of • The economy of Iraq and Syria has collapsed the meetings rotate between the venues of the because of the ongoing war and the low member churches. This meeting was attended price of oil. Economic survival in Syria is very by representatives of ten member Churches. difficult as is economic survival for the refugees We were well looked after by the Armenian outside of Syria. Financial and material Church members. The Armenian Bishop assistance is provided by the Australian based Haigazoun Najarian led a short service in the Churches. church, together with two priests and supported by the choir at the beginning of our meeting. • To prepare refugees for re-settlement, World The President’s report at the meeting covered Vision is providing English classes and of some of the items in this issue of Sharing vocational training for refugees who are in and some of the items in the previous issue of Lebanon. The Uniting Church in Australia Sharing. is providing funding for primary schools for refugee children. A significant part of the meeting consists of updates from the Churches. As in previous Supporting the refugees when they come to meetings, the situation of Christian refugees in Australia. and from the Middle East is the major concern • Support is needed to build trust and courage of the churches. Below is a summary of the with the refugees so they can commence the discussion at the meeting. hard work of settling in Australia. • The selection process of refugees who are in • English classes, recognition of qualifications, refugee camps in Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan job training and finding work are essential. is not clear: who is accepted, why are others Social dislocation and social isolation are rejected and the great difference in waiting commonly experienced. times. Most Christians are not in refugee camps and millions are displaced in their own • Most Christian refugees were middle class countries who are not regarded as refugees people in the Middle East and the life of a according to the UNHCR. Jordan has closed newly arrived refugee, after the trauma of the border for Syrian refugees. There are still 2 experiencing genocide and war in the Middle million Christians in Syria. East requires time and the right type of support. • The Middle Eastern Churches in Australia are very active to support their churches and • The Dept of Immigration upholds the privacy refugees in the Middle East. The Bishops of of the refugees who are being settled in the Eastern Orthodox Churches have recently Australia but that means that it is not known visited the Middle East to be a firsthand by the Churches and their service agencies witness to the situation and to be with their who is arriving and where. Settlement Services remaining churches. International provides support for the first three months and hopefully can connect the • Corruption in the refugee assessment and refugees with their communities here. processing is happening in the Middle East and ISIS is providing false documentation such • The ongoing support will need to come from as christening and marriage certificates. the local community. The government services are limited in building longer term relationships • Is the future of the Middle Eastern Christianity to walk the settlement journey with each
6 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER refugee and their family. Pastor Bill spoke of being “Messengers of Hope”. • The Uniting Church in NSW has gathered The Coptic Church in Australia is growing fast. information about what support is provided at The Sydney College of Divinity is providing a local parish level e.g. the support centre in higher degrees in theology with the Coptic Bass Hill, English classes at local parishes. Church. • The Salvation Army works closely with the The Lutheran Church is concerned about Middle Eastern churches and communities to the current resurging hostilities towards the provide support. Christian church in Indonesia. There are more that 250 million people in Indonesia and 10% It was agreed that there is a lack of a coherent are Christians. Of these 25 million, 6 million are understanding in Australia about what is Lutheran. happening in the Middle East and the arrival and settlement of the refugees in Australia. Rev Myung Park, moderator of the Uniting People see images of the war and refugees Church in NSW and ACT spoke of the need on the television and in other media but lack for interfaith dialogue to build community and an overview. There is a rise of populism in seeking common ground between the faith the Western world against taking in refugees. traditions to strengthen the Australian society. There is a fast pace of change in the Western The Interfaith Commission of the Council is world; technologically, economically, growth in working towards this. Could there be a larger non-Christian faith traditions and a reduction role for the Council towards this goal e.g in the traditional Western Churches. There are focus on the Abrahamic faiths? The NSW more than 60 million refugees in the world and Government organises a religious leaders forum, people in the Western world want to retreat to Apro (Australian Partnerships of Religious the society they knew, often from the 1950s and Organisations) organises interfaith forums and 1960s. It was agreed that the Council will write a there are other organisations as well that work one page summary to provide this overview. in this field. It is important to develop a specific purpose if the Council were to be a stronger Other news that was shared: voice in this arena. Pastor Bill Weiser spoke about a “reconciliation” Mr Stuart McMillan, the President of the Uniting gathering that was held at the Bruderhof Church in Australia was our guest speaker. community that is located between Inverell and Stuart has lived in the Northern Territory for Glen Innes. The Bruderhof in the USA bought the 35 years. He has been accepted into a local land in 1999 and there was wariness and hostility Aboriginal clan many years ago and is part of in the local community against this development. their kinship relationships. The theme of his Several local churches were also hostile. presentation was “How do we live life together in The local Ministers Fellowship organised the this country”. There was a Christian ”Doctrine of gathering that was attended by nine churches Discovery”, meaning that if the local population is and by more than 100 local people. There not Christian, their land can be taken. How do we was repentance for the initial hostilities and understand now the theological base for white acknowledgement of the spiritual and practical settlement in Australia and being on this land contributions by the Bruderhof in the local region.
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 7 of Australia. This is the basis for the development of concepts such as “sovereignty”, “treaty”, the “recognise’ movement that is considering constitutional recognition. Stuart is observing a development in the Aboriginal leadership in articulating what it is that they want and it is more than a sentence in the Constitution, the signing of a declaration or other symbolic gestures. Local connections and relationality in the sight of God underpin the future of the Churches with the Aboriginal population. Progress is relational, not programmatic. Stuart mentioned some of the current issues in Aboriginal communities that we know from the media or first hand: the importance of education and opportunities of job training and work. Due to the high levels of health and social problems in Aboriginal communities there is often a lack of local leadership, especially with the older generation dying. The question was raised about Islamic conversions and work transition, parenting support etc, in the jails. This is also happening in Darwin as it imprisonment rates will decline significantly. is happening elsewhere in Australia. There is the • How can the Churches serve the Government danger of radicalisation. as we are all serving the population of Australia A visit by the Honourable Tanya Plibersek, deputy and especially the disadvantaged groups. Tanya leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament and Chris both said that we need to keep in and the Honourable Chris Hayes, Member for contact with their offices and bring matters to their Fowler had been arranged. attention. The following matters were discussed: • The reduction in TAFE funding and the reduction in courses offered over the last 10 years has • The refugee selection and processing in the significantly reduced opportunities for school Middle East and settlement in NSW, as described leavers and especially for the many adults who above, were raised. Tanya and Chris were aware need to upgrade their qualification or retrain as of these matters, especially as Chris’s electorate the world of work is rapidly changing. Problems comprises of Liverpool and the suburbs west and with the private colleges have not provided north of Liverpool. He has regular contact with relevant job related training. The sharp increase the Eastern Orthodox churches in his electorate. in fees is also too daunting for many people Both parliamentarians recommended that further who need to access further education and job contact is maintained with their offices to raise training. Tanya was well aware of this situation these matters and any developments. and quoted statistics that underpin the current • The Indigenous disadvantage was discussed predicament. She said that the Labor party has a and the Closing the Gap initiatives. It is important comprehensive plan to address this. to keep remembering improvements such as Bishop Haigazoun Najarian gave us the blessing maternal and child statistics and some of the at the end of our meeting. It was a full meeting educational achievements. However many other covering significant concerns by the churches. Our indicators are not improving e.g. employment witness in the world and in our local communities or business ownership, imprisonment, health, is extensive. The sharing of these concerns violence, overall educational outcomes. Tanya strengthens us in being Ambassadors of God. spoke about “justice re-investment”. Imprisonment is very expensive and if similar amounts were to be invested in maternal and child health, early childhood education, ongoing educational Wies Schuiringa, President
8 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER Mosman Council: Nomination of Citizen of the Year Alison Vickery
Alison Vickery has been nominated by the Inter-Church Council as an outstanding example of faithful service to the local community over many years.
Alison Vickery has lived a life of selfless devotion Australia and much of its success and longevity can to others. This has been through service to the be attributed to Alison’s tireless work in her various community, especially the Mosman community, much roles on the Inter-Church Council (ICC). In her time of it in connection to her local church, the Mosman she championed many exciting ideas, including, the Uniting Church, however also through her involvement concept of the ICC creating a public church service as a founding member of the Mosman, Neutral Bay to recognize the important work of the Emergency Inter-Church Council. Services. The Emergency Services Service has now Alison joined the Mosman Uniting Church in 1977 and been held every three years for the past 15 years in has been a regular worshipper there ever since. the Mosman Community/Art Centre. She was elected as an Elder in 1980 and is still The ICC has financially supported and promoted serving in this role. As an Elder, the most senior lay many local charities and overseas aid agencies role in the Uniting Church, she was responsible for including Taldumande, a local not-for-profit young pastoral care, worship, and education. She was the person’s refuge and more recently Mary’s House, a Chairman of the Mosman Uniting Church Council women’s domestic violence refuge, the first on the on two occasions 1989 – 1992 and 2009 -2013. lower North Shore. These initiatives were actively The Mosman Uniting Church, formerly the Mosman supported by Alison. Congregational Church has been an important part The Mosman, Neutral Bay Inter-Church Council of the Mosman community since 1877, nearly 150 is now regarded as the benchmark of ecumenism years, and Alison has been an indispensable part of around Australia and Alison Vickery’s 33 years of its fabric. continuous faithful service is one of the main reasons In 1976 the Caring Association of the Mosman ecumenism has flourished in Mosman. Uniting Church decided their mission was to include In addition, Alison’s service to the community involved, community outreach, and as a result in 1977 the among many other things, being active in Friends of Garrison Retirement Hostel was opened and self-care Vellore Hospital in India. units were added in 1978. Alison was on the Board In her professional life, Alison worked as a of the Garrison and Killarney Retirement Centre from microbiologist and lecturer at Prince Alfred Hospital 1998 until 2004. and privately she enjoyed an active social life with In 1983 Alison represented the Mosman Uniting family and friends with skiing, concerts, theatre (both Church on the Mosman, Neutral Bay Inter-Church on and off the stage) and ballet. Council and was one of its founding members. We proudly nominate Alison Vickery as Mosman From the outset she understood the importance of Citizen of the Year, as a worthy example of ecumenism, of Christian churches working together, undemonstrative self-sacrifice, whose guiding displaying unity while working to help others in the principle has been `to love your neighbour as local community and the wider world. Alison served yourself’. as Chairman in 1985 – 1986. In 2002 she was elected Secretary and served in this position until 2014. She continues in the role of member of the Executive. Phillip Seale The Mosman, Neutral Bay Inter-Church Council is Secretary one of the longest running inter-church councils in
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 9 In the Wake of Terror in Cairo: The Blood of the Martyrs, the Tears of the Church By Bishop Anba Suriel (Photo: Khaled Desouki / AFP / Getty Images) His Grace Bishop Anba Suriel is the Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne. Today has been one of the most difficult days of my life. Hearing about such barbaric events on the news or watching them on television is one thing; experiencing them first-hand is something else altogether. Walking up to the Church of St. Peter (al-Botrosiya), in the complex of St. Mark’s Cathedral, and seeing from afar that the roof had blown out made me fear what awaited me inside the church. It was immediately clear to me - when I saw the number of police on Ramsis Street and heard the protestors grieving and chanting - that this is a disaster of gigantic proportions. I entered the church with some difficulty due to the How many sons, daughters and husbands are suffering crowds. Nothing could prepare me for what I saw next. and in mourning now? It was complete pandemonium. Priests, bishops, police, detectives, parishioners, cameras, media - all in shock I looked at the roof that had blown out and I could see at the sheer barbarity of this act of terrorism. the heavens and prayed: “O Lord of heavens, why have you forsaken Your people? Why have you allowed for I simply could not imagine how detectives and this tragedy to befall your beloved people of Egypt? forensic scientists could collect evidence under such Why Lord? I do not understand. Even if my mind cannot circumstances. And I could not hold back the flow of comprehend, I will always accept Your will and say, ‘Thy tears. will be done’. I know that even in the midst of the pain Then I saw the clock on the wall which had stopped and suffering You are there and will wipe every tear from at 9:57 am, the time that the bomb detonated. This our eyes and will remove all pain. You will turn every evil moment in time will be embedded in my mind and heart to glory just as you did with the Righteous Joseph in the forever. It is the moment when we gained new martyrs Old Testament.” in 2016 and new intercessors on our behalf in front of After this, I along with three bishops attempted to visit the throne of God. Demerdash Hospital to visit our sons and daughters Someone handed me a steel ball - one of hundreds that who were injured and to comfort the affected families, were packed inside the bomb. I have kept this with me but the door was locked and we could not get in. We and showed it to His Holiness Pope Tawadros II. I will heard loud shouting and the sound of many young keep it with me always in remembrance of these new people running, then a gun shot. We were rushed to the martyrs of the twenty-first century. cars that drove away at breakneck speeds. I saw the blood of the martyrs on the floor of the church This evening, it was difficult to see His Holiness Pope and it made me think that our whole history is full of Tawadros II upon his arrival from Athens in a state of such blood throughout 2,000 years. This blood is what sadness, pain and sorrow. I greeted His Holiness and continues to strengthen our faith and makes the Church passed on my condolences and said to him, “May the continue to stand strong. Lord protect you and keep you for His Church.” Someone pointed out to me the tissues of the bodies of The horror of this day will go down in the history of the martyrs that were plastered high on the wall of the Egypt and of the Coptic Church. It is tragic that such church - a grisly testament to the power of the bomb. barbarians exist in the world, and that they are willing I began to try to imagine what it would have been like to do such harm to human beings. Yet we as Christians to be praying in that church this morning. A Sunday are people of hope - our hope is Christ. He is our source morning, families going to celebrate liturgy during the of comfort, hope and joy. And so we rejoice for these beginning of the holy month of Kiahk before the Feast blessed martyrs and we pray for their families that the of Nativity, days that are full of joy. Then, moments later, Lord may give them comfort and peace. the church looks like this? And we pray for peace and unity to Egypt, and strength Tears ran down my face, my heart was weeping blood to us all in our grief. for the families that are suffering and have lost loved His Grace Bishop Anba Suriel is the Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox ones. Many mothers had lost their lives as the bomb Diocese of Melbourne, and the Chancellor and Dean of St. Athanasius was on the right side of the church where women stand. College. 10 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER
3 Kiahk, 1733AM Monday 12 December 2016
Statement from Bishop Daniel, Leader of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Sydney & its Affiliated Regions and Bishop Daniel, the Bishop & Abbott of St Shenouda Coptic Monastery, NSW (Photo: Khaled Desouki / AFP / Getty Images) Concerning Recent Church Bombing in Cairo Egypt
"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake." (Matthew 5:11)
We are deeply saddened by the horrific events and loss of lives in Egypt on Sunday, 11 December 2016. The explosion occured during the regular Sunday worship at the Church of St Peter and St Paul’s (El Botrosia) Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo. The Church lies within the precinct of the Grand Cathedral of St Marks, headquarters of the Coptic Church. It is also the home of it’s leader and Patriarch HH Pope Tawadrous II.
This attack by terrorists on innocent Coptic Christians, their churches and institutions, which took place in the last twenty-four hours, is unprecedented. This attack led to the martyrdom and the loss of life of 26 innocent Coptic believers, mainly women and children, while 49 others have been injured.
This barbaric attack has stunned the overwhelming majority of Egyptians both at home and abroad. This incident has greatly shaken the Coptic community of Egypt. This was clearly a planned and systematic attack by Islamic terrorists against the Copts and their churches in Egypt.
We stand in solidarity with HH Pope Tawadros II who has condemned and rejected in the strongest terms the violence brought upon the Copts of Egypt. We also appreciate the efforts and co-operation of President Sisi, president of Egypt for condemning the attacks and pledging to bring to justice those responsible for this gruesome attack.
The Diocese of Sydney will host a prayer vigil to support in sharing the grief of all Christians at a global level so that we may pray in one voice and stand in solidarity with our brethren all over the world. Where: St Mary & St Mina Cathedral – Bexley 339 Forest Road – Bexley – NSW - 2207 When: Tuesday 13th of December 2016 Time: 4:00PM – 7:00PM Following the Prayer Vigil, the Coptic Orthodox Church – Diocese of Sydney - will accept Condolences for the Martyrs from 7:00 – 9:00 PM.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the martyrs who gave their lives for their belief. We pray to God the Almighty for the repose of their souls. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the many who have been left severly injured. We have full faith that the Lord will guide the world to a better future filled with justice and peace.
During this holy fast of the Nativity we ask our Coptic communities within the Diocese of Sydney and our brothers and sisters of the Australian community at large to raise their hearts in prayer and fasting that the Lord Jesus Christ may bestow His peace upon Egypt and the world.
Bishop Daniel Bishop Anba Daniel Bishop Daniel Bishop Anba Daniel Bishop of the Coptic Orthoxdox Bishop and Abbot of St Shenouda Diocese of Sydney & Affiliated Regions Monastery- Sydney, Australia
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 11 4th International Conference on Receptive Ecumenism
The 4th International Conference on Receptive Theology and Director of the Centre for Catholic Ecumenism will be held at University house, Studies, Durham, UK), the initiator and main driving Australian National University, Canberra, from force behind the receptive ecumenism movement, has Monday 6 to Thursday 9 November, 2017. described it as “a way of being with each other that is open and vulnerable”. It is “ecumenism not primarily The context, in terms of both place and time, will make as a task of convincing the other, but as a task of the Fourth International Conference on Receptive conversion; a task of asking how in the face of the Ecumenism an extremely significant event. other we are being called to conversion out of ways It will be the first major international ecumenical that are frustrating our flourishing, and into a greater gathering in Australia since the Seventh Assembly of abundance of life, a deeper quality of catholicity”. In the World Council of Churches in Canberra in 1991. other words, the churches “might be able to help each Also, it will come at an auspicious time. It will other grow in faith, life and witness if they are open to commence just six days after the 500th anniversary of being transformed by God’s grace mediated through Martin Luther posting his 95 Theses on the door of the each other”.[2] Castle Church in Wittenberg – the event that marks ‘Reception’ has been a crucial process in the the beginning of the Reformation and the consequent ecumenical movement. If the fruits of the churches’ divisions in the Western Church. ecumenical engagement are to be transformative, This conference will be the successor to, and build those fruits have to be ‘received’ by the churches into upon the work of, three similar conferences that their own lives. Dr Gerard Kelly (Catholic Institute of have been held in England (2006 and 2009) and in Sydney) has made the point that portrayed in that the United States (2014). Those earlier conferences way, this essential process is being described by a introduced the basic idea of receptive ecumenism, noun or a verb, and “the focus is on something to be firstly within the Catholic tradition and then more received”. However, the idea of receptive ecumenism broadly across a wide range of Christian traditions. makes a significant change: “in speaking of receptive Since its inception, the concept has taken root in ecumenism we are dealing with an adjective. The many diverse contexts around the globe. focus is on a particular quality of the church, namely its receptivity. In the method of receptive ecumenism What is Receptive Ecumenism? each church is called to be receptive”.[3] Receptive Ecumenism is a fresh ecumenical Within the Ecumenical Movement methodology emphasising receptivity, learning, and listening. It is about learning from other Christians Gathering in Canberra for the fourth of these in order to learn about ourselves. It is a process of international conferences will be a reminder of the conversion, and openness to the Holy Spirit. 1991 WCC Assembly that adopted a statement on Christian unity, The Unity of the Church as Koinonia: Receptive Ecumenism is summed up in the following Gift and Calling. In it, the WCC member churches quote from the Third International Conference acknowledged “with gratitude to God that in the programme notes: ecumenical movement the churches walk together The essential principle is that the primary ecumenical in mutual understanding, theological convergence, responsibility is to ask not “What do the other common suffering and common prayer, shared traditions first need to learn from us?” but “What do witness and service as they draw close to one we need to learn from them?” The assumption is that another. This has allowed them to recognize a certain if all were asking this question seriously and acting degree of communion already existing between upon it then all would be moving in ways that would them”.[4] Receptive ecumenism is a more recently both deepen our authentic respective identities and developed ecumenical method, but very definitely draw us into more intimate relationship.[1] designed to help the churches to ‘walk together’ on the ecumenical journey, and the next conference will Professor Paul Murray (Professor of Systematic draw inspiration from that Canberra Statement as the
12 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER participants explore how the churches might ‘draw authority in the various church traditions. The Fourth closer to one another’. Conference on Receptive Ecumenism will specifically address these issues of decision-making that take By its title, the Canberra Statement recognised that us to the heart of many of the difficulties and the our unity in Christ is a gift already given to us by apparently impassable differences between the God, but the visible expression of that unity is still a traditions. goal to which God calls us: the churches are being called into a koinonia that will be expressed in “a Therefore, the primary endeavour of this Fourth common confession of the apostolic faith”, “a common International Conference on Receptive Ecumenism sacramental life”, a mutually recognised and reconciled will be to explore the scriptural and theological ministry, and “a common mission”. While the walking underpinning of ecumenical learning. This will provide together in the ecumenical movement may have the basis for a consideration of patterns, structures brought the churches closer together, the Canberra and theologies of decision-making and authority in the Statement critically observed that the “churches have various churches in the light of the challenge to each failed to draw the consequences for their life from church to be receptive. the degree of communion they already experience Following the conclusion of the conference, the and the agreements already achieved. They have proceedings will be prepared for publication. This remained satisfied to co-exist in division”.[5] will be an important instrument through which the Five hundred years since the beginning of the international church community can be offered the Reformation the co-existence in ever-increasing insights and learnings from the conference as a division continues, and the gathering of people further contribution to the ecumenical endeavour. for another international ecumenical assembly in [1] Receptive Ecumenism Conference III Papers Canberra will be a time for deep reflection on how [2] RE III Papers the churches can draw the consequences – can [3] Gerard Kelly, Paper given at a meeting of the national Heads of Australian ‘receive’ – for themselves the fruits of the ecumenical Churches, Sydney, 2014 endeavour so far. Crucial to understanding the failure [4] Kinnamon, Michael & Cope, Brian, The Ecumenical Movement: An Anthology of Key Texts and Voices, Geneva: WCC Publications, 1997, to do so – which the Canberra Statement honestly p. 124 recognised – is the nature of decision-making and
The Centre for Ecumenical Studies as part of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture (CSU), together with The Australian Catholic University’s Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry and the Research Centre for Public and Contextual Theology (CSU) are pleased to invite you to the 4th International Conference on Receptive Ecumenism titled ‘Leaning into the Spirit: discernment, decision-making and reception’. For more information on the Conference: http://arts-ed. csu.edu.au/centres/accc/projects/2017-conference- receptive-ecumenism
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 13 Common Grace
There is a new ecumenical movement of young In response to this, and with much prayer and Australia Christians passionate about Jesus and reflection, an ecumenical movement started to Justice, seeking to gather the Church on common form that addressed the current gaps in Christian ground and work together for the common good in engagement with issues of justice. The prayer was our world. They call themselves Common Grace that this movement would be shaped by the true and they seek to inspire young Australian Christians character of Jesus and the hope of His resurrection, to appreciate the beauty of God’s people and his that it would make space for the meaningful creation, to generously engage with those around connection of personal faith with action that would them and to seek justice for the vulnerable and make the world a better place. marginalised. Two years on, with newly appointed CEO Scott Last month, Common Grace celebrated its two Sanders at the helm, and working with a small core year anniversary since it first launched as a team of staff and a host of devoted volunteers and diverse movement of Australian Christians who supporters, Common Grace effectively uses cutting- are passionate about Jesus and justice. In those edge social media and other digital strategies to two years Common Grace has become a thriving mobilise Christians to advocate for the oppressed. community of more than 23,000 Christians, bringing They run campaigns that seek justice for people who together Christians from right across the breadth of are seeking asylum, experiencing domestic violence, the Australian church, united around their common and experiencing racism – particularly for Aboriginal desire to be more like Jesus. and Torres Strait Islanders – and for the active care of our earth. But as with all Christian movements, it started from humble beginnings. This young team is guided and supported by the leadership of an experienced board that includes Three years ago, a small group Christian leaders World Vision Australia’s Chief Advocacy Officer and and change makers began gathering and praying former CEO Tim Costello, Welcome to Australia’s together around their shared their vision for Australia. Brad Chilcott, and is chaired by the co-founder of They spoke of the hope they experienced as they Oaktree Nic Mackay. watched the next generation of Christians begin to emerge, having experienced the transformation that In addition to their campaign work, Common Grace comes from believing in Jesus and following Him, and is committed to producing Christian formation who were also acutely aware that they serve a loving resources that inspire the next generation to actively God who cares about His world. practice their faith with grace and compassion. These resources feature teaching videos, blogs and This was a generation who believed that there is devotionals by a wide range of respected teachers more to the story of being a Christian than just church from all different denominations, and provide an on Sunday, a weeknight study group and a healthy exciting snapshot of the Christian diversity within the devotional life. Who read God’s word and heard His Common Grace community. heart for those in need. They felt called to respond to social, economic and environmental challenges, both This year, Common Grace’s Advent Devotional local and global. They knew that throughout history, Series “Being Present” shows the organisation’s Christians had borne witness against injustices and determination to provide a platform for all kinds of been ready to act to be the change they want to see voices to contribute, particularly minority voices, in the world. with contributors such as an Aboriginal Christian activist, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Yet, they also acknowledged that this was a artist, a man who is seeking asylum and a school generation that felt a sense of disappointment and student, taking their place right alongside CEOs of misrepresentation by the lack of action by Christians Christian organisations, prominent Christian leaders, on key justice issues. And even more so, the internationally renown Christian music artists, and church was being increasingly defined by its self- well-loved Aussie TV stars. preservation and what it was against, rather than what it stood for and its likeness to Christ.
14 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 5 “We have a bold mission to inspire the church to bold acts of justice through the celebration, formation and mobilisation of the beautiful and diverse Australian church,” says CEO Scott Sanders reflecting on what’s ahead for Common Grace. “As we move forward we will continue to work tirelessly towards reconciliation for the displaced, reconciliation for the abused, reconciliation for the hurting, reconciliation for the landless, reconciliation for the persecuted – as we believe this is the heart of the gospel and therefore the ministry of the Church.”
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 15 Second Annual Community Peace Dinner Leigh Memorial Uniting Church, 3 December 2016
The second annual Community Peace Dinner highest, and on earth peace, good will toward marked the season of Christmas at Parramatta men. This is what will produce a society that Mission’s Leigh Memorial Congregation on embraces peace.” Saturday 3 December. Five guests representing Brahma Kumari, Following on from the congregation’s Islam, Judaism, Christianity and Hinduism in International Peace Day interfaith service, the their responses emphasised the importance dinner brought together a diverse group of of gatherings like this and thanked the Leigh 55 people including representatives of many Memorial Congregation for opening their sacred Christian denominations, different faiths, local space for interfaith dialogue and hospitality. community and advocacy organisations as well Dr Nahla on behalf of the Islamic Community as Hon’ble Ms Julia Finn, State member for wished all a very happy Christmas. Granville. Everyone enjoyed an Indian vegetarian Rev Dr Manas Ghosh, Minister of Leigh meal and were entertained by the singing of Memorial Congregation, in his welcome address, Shaalane Srambikal a young girl from Leigh reminded the audience that when people from Memorial congregation. There was a great spirit different races, religions, customs, languages of friendship and good will as people took the and social classes come together in friendship, opportunity to know one another and shared share one another’s festivals and joys as well stories with others, including those they had met as sufferings goodwill among all people can be for the first time. This special community dinner achieved and making peace can be a reality in contributed much to keeping the spirit of mutual our communities and the world. understanding and enrichment alive particularly when our diversity is challenged and in the The Guest Speaker, His Eminence Dr Abu face of fear-based judgements and one-sided Ibrahim Mohammed, the Grand Mufti of Australia conclusions and behaviours. who was accompanied by his wife Dr Nahla, in his address emphasised, “This is a gathering that builds bridges of understanding and increases our love and peace in society. All this with the hope that our beloved land of Australia remains a prime example of multiculturalism and a pluralist society with its many faiths and cultures.” He continued “If we wish to build a sound future for our later generations in our land of Australia, then the key to this is to free all minds, hearts and actions from the causes of bigotry, hatred and extremism. No Imam can succeed in his Mosque if he spreads bigotry and racism. No Priest can succeed in his church if he spreads bigotry and racism. No government minister can succeed in his ministry until he turns away from racism, bigotry, and closed mindedness. When we learn about each other truly, we can call together “Glory to God in the
16 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER Jasper Hotel AGM 2016: 20 August 2016Melbourne 489 Elizabeth St Melbourne Safe as Churches? 8 CONFERENCE 16th 17th May 2017
Conference topics impact of abuse | pastoral care responses family violence | online safety
The upcoming “Safe as Churches?” Conference is the 8th Early Bird Single $425 biennial conference bringing together various leaders and Group Early Bird $415 experts to network and develop effective ways to lead our churches in best practices for Group rate is for 5 or more delegates safeguarding our children, youth and vulnerable adults. Early Bird rate ends 28th February 2017
www.safechurches.org.au
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 17 Domestic Violence – Are Friends Aware By Topsy Evans – South Australian Rooms
(Re-printed with Permission from Society of someone else, not necessarily of your choosing. Friends) They chose to tell you, not anyone else. In September 1983, while I was working as a It was almost as though no-one wanted to be Child Welfare Officer, I had to tell two children involved with behaviour which is so unlike how we aged 7 and 5 that their father had killed their believe that Friends behave. After all, we respect mother, Maureen. I knew the family because they other people, love them, care for them. Don’t had been attending Meeting since the beginning we? We visit prisoners, work with refugees, we of the year. After a few months Maureen had work for peace and non-violence. Why is violence felt supported enough by Friends to leave her within the family different? husband. She told me and some other Friends Then I found an article in a Friends’ publication that she feared her husband would kill her, and written by a Friend who had assisted in conducting we set in place some safety mechanisms to help a well accepted nationwide university-based her, in line with the accepted practice at the time. survey on the incidence of domestic violence I know that we only partially saw the reality of her in USA. This survey had been rigorous and danger. After all, “these things don’t happen in examined the incidence of various forms of Friends”. spousal violence in the general community. After The little 5 year old boy’s response will stay with the survey was completed, she asked for and me for ever. He said quite matter of factly “I obtained approval to conduct an in-house survey suppose he hit her too hard this time”. of all the Members of one of the Yearly Meetings in USA. After all, she reasoned, such a survey How could this happen in Friends? would show that the peace-loving Friends would The Meeting responded well to this crisis, and have little or no domestic violence in their intimate within a fortnight the children had been transferred relationships. to their extended family in USA. However, it was The results were personally devastating for her, harder to shake Friends’ underlying assumption and would have caused embarrassment to the that this had been a “one off”, and as such there Yearly Meeting concerned. Doubts were raised was no need to make any changes in the way we about the methodology of the survey. But it was care for each other. After all, the family had only the same as that used in the earlier nationwide been attending the Meeting for a few months. one which had been widely accepted. Certainly Later, when I had learnt much more about what the incidence of the more extreme forms of positive responses are helpful when someone spousal violence were reduced in Friends, but gets the courage to talk about what is going wrong overall the total number of reported incidents was in their domestic relationship, I offered to run a very close to the national average. This could only workshop for our Elders and Overseers, so that mean that the incidence of the “lesser” forms of they would feel more confident if anyone else were violence must be higher than the national average. to approach them with a similar problem. However what has become clear is that these The response I received will also stay with me for “lesser” forms of violence can be very damaging ever. “Oh, we don’t need that, we’ll just pass them to their recipient. on to you.” From now on, please don’t take offence when I use Two aspects of that reply worried me. The first, “his” and “her” in connection with spousal violence. and least important was that I had not been asked If it is necessary to use terminology applicable in if I would take on that role. The second was the all situations, the result will be long-winded and total ignoring of the courage needed to confide tortuous. The reality is that in the overwhelming about intimate personal relationships with anyone, majority of situations of domestic violence, the let alone be asked to tell the story all over again to violence is used by a man against a woman. Not
18 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER always, but usually. Same sex couples can have strengthened, and for a short time at least people similar problems, and very occasionally it is the were made aware of the danger endured by male partner who is the victim. So if you need to many women in the community. A Crisis Unit was change the pronouns as you read, please do so! established and its staff now attend with the Police to ensure that the woman and her children are What has become clear is that spousal violence cared for. in whatever form it takes, results overwhelmingly from an insistence on the part of one partner, What is not clear to me is how far Friends’ usually the man, to take control of the other attitudes changed. I would hope that our Meetings partner. could be seen as understanding, informed and supportive environments where it is not assumed The means used vary widely – psychological that just because we are Friends, family violence undermining, social isolation, financial is not possible. Perhaps as is encouraged by deprivation, sexual abuse, and of course physical Beyond Blue, we may be able to ask something threats and abuse. Sometimes, as a way to like “Are you OK?” if we suspect that one of our ensure dominance, threats are made to harm her number is having problems of control or even children, family or pets. The end result will be the physical violence from her spouse. same – the undermining of her confidence and a stunting of her personality, together with a realistic If she does tell you about a problem of spousal element of fear about what he will do should she violence, will you be able to listen and know decide to leave. All this is aimed at keeping her where she can seek professional help, with your under his control. continuing support? Sometimes this can look, from the outside, as Are you aware of the support services available? an extremely close and caring relationship, but Do you know where she could go to be safe, and over time the person ‘cared for’ loses confidence what preparations she would need to make when and the ability to manage her own life. She does she does decide to leave? not have the space or support to develop her full potential, nor does she feel safe, or respected by Can you support her to either leave the her partnerPromoting – quite the reverse. the “Domestic Many women feel andrelationship Family permanently, or at least stay away shame about their predicament, which makes it until a long lasting change in his behaviour has evenViolence” more difficult to seek poster help. by the SBS.been achieved and that it is clear that underlying assumptions about his role in the relationship So it takes a huge amount of courage to tell have changed? He will need to change to living someone “outside” about the problem. So if she The SBS is interested to promote the poster that has beenindependently, developed ratherby the thanOvercoming controlling others, does so, it is important that she be listened to, Family Violence Commission of the NSW Ecumenical beforeCouncil. it isThe safe poster for her will tobe return to the relationship. believed, and her confidence kept. distributed to the member Churches and placed on theIf Council’sshe goes website back, only in January believing that he will If she2017. comes The toSBS you met for with help members it is important of the toCommission tochange record in our the discussion future, the about whole cycle of control believethe her,importance not to take of the over, Churches and to toencourage be a safe place to discloseand violence family will violence start again.and to her tobe discuss referred possible to agencies ways that to cankeep assist her safe,to resolve this dreadful problem and break the She will need long term support to stay away and cycleto put of her violence in touch for with the nextprofessional generation. help. The No SBS was especially interested to interview Captain Robyn Black from the Salvation Army, and theto convenor establish of herself the Commission as an independent who person, amount of “trying harder” to please him will alter has developed a series of sermons based on safety ofable family to resistmembers promises and supportive, of change by her partner the situation. She’s been doing that! trusting and flourishing relationships in family life. not backed up by a real change in underlying Maureen’s death was well publicised and it drew assumptions of his right to control the relationship. attention to the paucity of services for women I believe that this is possible in Friends’ Meetings trying to escape from violent relationships, and if we acknowledge the reality of domestic violence the ineffective legislation in Tasmania, under in our Meetings, and the enormous courage which the Police had insufficient powers to needed to build new lives after spousal violence. intervene in domestic disputes, and their training was weak. As a result of her death, the law was
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 19 Visit of the Anglican Primate of Egypt and the Horn of Africa, Bishop Mouneer Anis to Sydney By Very Rev Fr Shenouda Mansour
The Right Reverend Bishop Dr Mouneer Anis 1981/2011 and then past president Morsi, and arrived in Sydney for 24 hours where he was how the current president El Sisi responded to received for a dinner in his honour and for an the people’s wishes of over 30 million people in all-day conference at St Andrews Anglican the Tahir Square to oust president Morsi from Cathedral in Sydney. Bishop Anis is the Primate power. President El Sisi declared the road plan of the Anglican Church of Egypt and the Horn of to democracy. The presentation showed the Africa. majority of churches that were burnt down were from the Coptic Orthodox Church and a number “Forward in Faith” invited the Primate to of Police Stations were also targeted and burnt lead a conference titled, “Africa/Middle East down. After this, the Primate presented the work Challenges! Islam, Tribalism, Poverty and the of the Anglican Church in Egypt. role of Primates”. The work of the Anglican Diocese of Egypt is At the dinner the Primate spoke about the plight expressed through word and deed. The Primate of the Christians in Egypt. He spoke about the spoke about how the daily experience of persecution of Christians and he was speaking Christians living in Egypt is twofold - hardship from an authentic, personal experience. The and persecution. Three solutions were offered: Primate illustrated the situation with a number immigrate and leave Egypt; develop bitterness of short stories of the Christians’ experiences in and hostility; or, respond with love and grace. It Egypt. The first related to the period in the reign was the third option the Primate focused on as of past President Morsi in 2012/ 2013, when the the most powerful option needed in Egypt - love Primate felt he was a third class citizen in Egypt. and grace. It is incarnating God’s love to all. The second story related to a mother who lost How was this expressed in real terms? Bishop two of her boys who were martyred by ISIS in Mouneer Anis explained some of the community Libya. The Primate visited the mother who lives development programs developed by the in upper Egypt. This was a story typical of the Anglican Church in Egypt. These include micro martyrs of the early Church. A moving story that loans to help people start their own business, touched the hearts of all who were listening. health and education programs, refugee The evening concluded with Q & A forum and a support, prison ministries. Other initiatives to group photo. build bridges between Christians and Muslims On Saturday, the conference consisted of include programs with school children in planting three main sessions. The first session focused a tree of hope and Imam and Priest exchange on the conditions in Egypt. The Primate led programs. the first session and gave a brief history of St The first session ended with Q & A format. Mark the Apostle who brought the Gospel to Egypt. This session included a brief description The second session was led by Mr. Ajang Biar of the history of Islam and the tribal warfare, from South Sudan who gave an overview of and the modern Islamic movement of the the current problems of the South Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood and others, and the Christians. It was a powerful reminder of the modern jihadists and extremists. Then the challenges and difficulties faced by current Primate gave an extensive description of African and Middle East countries. In South Egypt’s Revolution, from the uprising against Sudan, there are at least 60 different languages past president Mubarak, who reigned from being used by the different tribes. The main
20 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER problems in South Sudan concern a lack of church in Egypt and in South Sudan and pray peace, food and medical aid and finding an end that God graces the church with abundance of to tribalism in church leadership. The churches grace and blessings to serve God’s people in in South Sudan face a major lack of resources lands of persecution and difficulties. to train people for the ministry. The economics of sending young people to be trained in Australia for ministry is very expensive. The cost for one person to be trained in Sydney is $3,000. This same amount can educate four people a year if trained in a local theological college in Kenya. One of the major problems in South Sudan is everyone wants to be a leader. The question posed by Mr. Biar is, “How can we bring unity”? The second part of the presentation focussed on the South Sudanese Christians living in Sydney. Since arrival to Australia, the South Sudanese have integrated and assimilated into Australian society. With the recent problems amongst the South Sudanese Christians youth, the South Sudanese Anglican Bishop has appointed a priest from South Sudan to pastor the local people in Australia. The second session ended with a Q & A session. After lunch, the Primate, Bishop Mouneer Anis, led the final session focused on the governance and primacy of the Anglican Church. After this session, an evensong liturgy was conducted at St Andrew’s Cathedral led by the retired Archbishop of Sydney, The Most Rev Harry Goodhew. Whilst the visit of 24 hours was short, the participants at the dinner and at the conference were provided with an extensive overview by first hand witnesses of the current state of the Christians, both in Egypt and in South Sudan. We pray that God blesses the service of the
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 21 Kur-ring-gai Inter Church Group
On Friday November 11, the Ku-ring-gai Interchurch injustice, as well as fund-raising projects and the Group, at their Annual Dinner (the final event in the many other diverse methods whereby people are Group’s 2016 calendar), signed again an Agreement encouraged to make use of and meet in Church originally made and signed in November 2012. property. Exchange of pulpits, visitations to the services of member Churches, and lunches between This Agreement forged between the 8 member Church representatives and the Clergy, are just Churches, of whom only one of the original some of the varied means whereby we interact. It signatories - viz “Anglican Catholic, St Mary the is through such mutual cooperation and interaction Virgin, North Turramurra”-, has dropped out (due to that friendships are formed, trust emerges and open its disbandment), being replaced by St Swithun’s, discussion and education concerning our differences Anglican, Pymble, in 2016, was some four years occurs. Despite those differences, which we realize in the making, and comprised representatives from make us unique, we discover that “we are one in Roman Catholic, Uniting Church, Anglican and Christ”, it is He who unites us and draws us together Presbyterian denominations. The Group was inspired as “a coat of many colours” to the Glory of God, our particularly by the Broken Bay Covenant signed at Father and maker. Newcastle in 2008. Initially the nomenclature of a “Covenant”, to be reviewed biannually, was accepted, This year we mourned the passing of one of our focusing on the communication with member founding members of this group, a passionate Churches and others by means of “seminars of ecumenist, and the retirement of a beloved 30 year subjects on common interest” to “get people talking as member, who has held the offices of Chairperson, ecumenism”. Secretary and Treasurer at various times. It is through such dedicated followers that our Group has impacted The basic aims were to promote common worship upon the members of the signatories and thus together with the ultimate goal being a “common advanced the cause of ecumenism. celebration of the Eucharist”. The aforesaid Broken Bay Covenant came about, not just because of a direction from clergy, but due to the combination of the interests of the people in the Parishes and the Church leaders acting in the furtherance of interests to get beyond “bigotry”, and so realize that “a number of paths lead to the throne”. In hindsight, this can also be said of the “Ku-ring- gai Agreement”.... much consultation has gone on between the representatives of the Group and the Clergy.... but it had been the Interchurch Group which has spearheaded action on this front. It was decided to use the term “Agreement” rather than that of “Covenant” since some representatives found the term “Covenant” too binding and inflexible, and therefore less amenable to necessary changes in the future! What has happened in the four years since this Agreement was signed in 2012? Slowly interaction between the signatories is encouraged as we support one another in common projects and also our individual endeavours in response to community issues and needs, and attempts to correct societal
22 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER
An AGREEMENT between congregations
associated with the Ku-ring-gai lnterchurch Committee
The PEOPLE of the Uniting Churches at Pymble, St Ives and the Pymble Chapel Pymble Catholic Parish St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, St Ives-Pymble Catholic Parish of Corpus Christi, St Ives Anglican Parish of St John the Evangelist, Gordon St Swithun’s Anglican Church Pymble AFFIRM our commitment to one another as partners on the ecumenical journey; REJOICE in all we have in common and GIVE THANKS for the richness of our diverse traditions; RECOGNISE one another as Communities of Faith, Hope and Love, committed to following Christ and pledged to serve God's Kingdom; and therefore; MAKE A COMMITMENT TO EACH OTHER to engage in an ongoing process of growing together, not knowing what visible form unity may take. We believe that, by taking the steps to which we now commit ourselves, we shall be led to grow ever more deeply into that unity, which is God's will and gift. We AGREE TO 1. Relate to each other as partners in the apostolic mission of Christ; 2. Explore with one another, and be open to, our several convictions; 3. Intercede and care for one another by participating in a weekly prayer roster prepared by the Committee; 4. Participate in ecumenical events promoted by the Committee; especially to observe the World Day of Prayer; 5. Acknowledge a common baptism.
We UNDERTAKE to review this Agreement annually signed in 2012: Reaffirmed in 2016
St Ives Uniting Church Catholic parish of Corpus Christi, St Ives For the laity: For the laity: Minister: Administrator: Pymble Catholic Parish St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, St Ives-Pymble For the laity: For the laity: Parish Priest: Minister: Pymble Uniting Church Anglican Parish of St John the Evangelist, Gordon For the laity: For the laity: Minister: Rector: Pymble Chapel St Swithun’s Anglican Church, Pymble For the laity. For the laity: Minister. Rector:
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 23 Congratulations to Rev Claire Wright ON HER ORDINATION AS A MINISTER OF THE WORD IN THE UNITING CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA, SYNOD OF NSW & ACT
ACERO Telethon
The Assyrian Church of the Relief Organisation (ACERO) is the Australian arm of the international aid agency of the Assyrian Church of the East, and is chaired by His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM. The Charity held its second annual Christmas Appeal Radiothon on Sunday 4, December. The Radiothon encompassed a live five-hour program, held with the primary aim of raising funds to support refugees in need who continue to bear the tragic impact of ongoing conflict and unrest across the Middle East. The program featured an interview with His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM, who provided an update on refugee needs and relief work being undertaken by ACERO to address the immense need. ACERO was delighted to welcome the Very Reverend Fr Shenouda Mansour as a featured guest speaker on the program. Various additional guests from both the local and wider community joined the Charity live in studio and via telephone. Thanks to the generosity of listeners and contributors, a significant amount of funds were raised which will be directed towards the Charity’s ongoing aid and relief works. ACERO’s works are made possible through the generous support of our donors and we sincerely thank all supporters for their ongoing generosity. As we celebrate the commemoration of the birth of our Lord and Saviour, we pray that the Lord God bless you and your families this Christmas. To find out more about the Charity and its works, we invite you to visit our website at www.acero.org.au
24 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER A Modern Slavery Act for Australia
Today Australian faith leaders are calling on the Australian Government to enact new legislation to address modern slavery. Members of the Australian Freedom Network have joined a growing chorus of community, business, academic and legal professionals who have recommended a legislative response similar to models enacted in the United Kingdom and United States. Over the past decade, Australians have been confronted with heartbreaking stories of exploitation and abuse of international students, backpackers and other migrants in precarious work. More recently, the 7-Eleven case, investigations into exploitation in the fresh food industry and constant news releases from the Fair Work Ombudsman about abuse of foreign workers point to an unpalatable fact: exploitation is well and truly embedded within the Australian economy. Exploitation is also the main indicator that a person is being coerced, deceived or forced into a slavery-like condition. The Walk Free Foundation’s Global Slavery Index estimates that there are at least 4,300 people enslaved in Australia today. Yet only approximately 500 victims have been officially identified. In September 2015, 47 year-old Ewe Leong Lim’s body was found dumped in a toilet block on the side of the highway outside of Mildura. He died of a treatable medical condition and police suspect that he was working on local farms. Why he was unable to seek treatment? It is possible that his freedom was taken away by someone else. The issue of human trafficking and forced labour hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Federal Government. In 2013, the Human Rights Sub-Committee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade conducted an inquiry and tabled a report recommending the introduction of legislation to improve transparency in supply chains. The Commonwealth’s National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking and Slavery 2015-2019 (NAP) refers to labour exploitation in supply chains as a key focus area. Over the past 12 months the Government has convened a multi-stakeholder supply chains working group as part of the National Roundtable on People Trafficking and Slavery (NRPTS). However, this week Commonwealth Ministers with carriage of this issue announced only non- regulatory and non-legislative measures going forward. This means that the risk of slavery in supply chains will continue to be voluntarily self-managed rather than an obligation for business. This is despite the fact that our region, the Asia-Pacific, has the highest prevalence of slavery in the world. By contrast prominent business people such as Andrew Forrest of Fortescue Metals and Dr David Cooke of Konica Minolta Australia are showing leadership in their respective industries. They are proactively tackling these issues as part of their corporate commitment to sustainability and human rights. Why do they support a Modern Slavery Act in Australia? Because they know that voluntary measures are insufficient to create transparency and build accountability amongst the varied and complex relationships that businesses have with their suppliers. They know that legislation - and the risk management strategies that go with it - are required to drive reform. The findings from the recent Ethical Trading Initiative/Hult Business School review of the UK Modern Slavery Act are worth noting. They found that the Act is considered to be a game changer in UK business, that addressing modern slavery is becoming a business-critical issue for corporate credibility and that companies are making significant progress in addressing modern slavery. It would appear that the Act has gone some way to addressing a “race to the bottom” on decent employment. Preventing and mitigating the risks of slavery in supply chains cannot happen through individual efforts alone. It requires knowledge sharing between civil society, academics, government agencies, unions, media and business. Legislation can help to drive collaboration between stakeholders that delivers real results for vulnerable people. It can also create a level playing field for business and new relationships between market competitors who can learn from each other and raise industry standards. On this United Nations International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, the Commonwealth should heed Australian faith leaders and legislate a “race to the top” in combating modern slavery. Jenny Stanger, National Manager The Freedom Partnership to End Modern Slavery The Salvation Army www.endslavery.salvos.org.au SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 25 Activities of the Council
Commission on Peace & Justice Theological Reflection Commission Silent Vigil for Asylum 9th November 2016 3rd November 2016 Seekers 16th November 2016
Commission on the Middle East Launch of the Christmas Bowl Vigial for the Coptic Martyrs 10th November 2016 10th November 2016 13th December 2016
Round Table Discussion – Building Bridges of Understanding Commissioning of the President of the 11th November 2016 NSW Ecumenical Council, Ms Wies Schuiringa on 14th November 2016
Solidarity with Minorities at the Jewish Museum State Emergency Services at the 23rd November 2016 NSW Ecumenical Council Executive Meeting 17th November 2016
26 SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER Ecumenism & Multicultural Symposium
Theological Reflection Commission 3rd November 2016
State Emergency Services at the NSW Ecumenical Council Executive Richard Wainwright/Act for Peace Meeting 17th November 2016 Help a Zimbabwean family facing severe hunger to always have enough to eat.
SHARING | ISSUE #18 SUMMER 27 An invitation JOIN THE ECUMENICAL NETWORK NSW
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How you can be involved! Pray with Jesus ‘that they may all be one’! Participate Engage Join one of our Commissions or working groups Let us know what is happening in your area or through Join us as a volunteer your church Resource Help promote ecumenical activities in your area or through your church Support our work financially Help arrange an ecumenical forum, dinner or other Check out our website at www.nswec.org.au activity in your area (NSWEC representatives are always You can a big difference! willing to share something of our work or to help in other ways) Join the Team and make it happen for the Kingdom of Heaven!
Editor: Very Rev Fr Shenouda Mansour NSW Ecumenical Council Email: [email protected] Ph: 8259 0819 Fax: 9262 4514 Website: www.nswec.org.au
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