July 2009

UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND SYNOD

MORE DEPTH, MORE STORIES AT journeyonline.com.au

RECONCILIATION WEEK PAGE 6 PROFILE: PAGE 11 See the person, not the stereotype Dumpster Diving “Historical events have created a stereotype that “The level of food waste from supermarkets is needs to be deconstructed.” Leonie Joseph unjust and amounts to criminality.” Thomas Day

SCOT PGC FIRE MIRACLE - P3 INTRODUCING OUR NEW PRESIDENT - P5 TIPS TO GROW FAITH - P10 CORRUPTION REOPENED TWENTY YEARS AFTER FITZGERALD, WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?

By Mardi Lumsden

“A WATERSHED in the history and culture charged by Police Commissioner Ray of Queensland”. That is how ethicist and Whitrod with changing the police culture. retired Uniting Church minister Rev Dr Noel They were interesting and tough times Preston described the Fitzgerald Inquiry. for a man who spent his life asking, ‘How The judicial inquiry by Tony Fitzgerald would Jesus have gone about this?’ QC found extensive political and police “It can be an exhausting business, corruption in Queensland and the Report because I’ve never found the escape went to Parliament twenty years ago this clause where he accepted that near month, on 3 July 1989. enough was good enough,” he said. “Fitzgerald emerged at a pivotal time,” said “We who try it must never forget that the Dr Preston. “His inquiry gave Queensland carpenter of Nazareth trod a rockier path a chance to renew and rediscover among more hostile adversaries than we democracy. can even conceive.” “We became a more tolerant and open As a result, Mr Putland was accused society and all public institutions, not just of being “a religious teetotaller” who the police force, were challenged to reform expected the Academy to be run to and become more accountable.” unattainable moral and ethical standards. The 1986 Commonwealth Games and “Probably the harshest lesson … World Expo ’88 put Queensland on was that people with whom I worked, the map, partly the Bjelke-Peterson negotiated, advised, socialised, shared government’s doing. morning tea, trusted (and I thought was At the time the Uniting Church was the trusted by) over a number of years were, ‘new kid on the block’ and Dr Preston said quite simply, uncommon criminals. under the leadership of Prof Rollie Busch Director of the University of Queensland the church strove to fi ght injustice. Pro Bono Centre Dr Tamara Walsh said Church groups such as Concerned the Fitzgerald Inquiry heralded a new Christians and Action for World sense of hope for marginalised people. Development fl ew the fl ag of protest and “It recognised the enormous impact that a theologically informed dissent during the policing culture can have on the lives of 1970s and 1980s. those who are vulnerable,” she said. For many Christians standing up against a Dr Walsh said we currently fi nd ourselves government that had banned public protest in a similar situation to that met by without a permit, ignored a wide range Fitzgerald 20 years ago. of human and civil rights, and labelled Christian dissidents as communists was a “As Christians, it is our mandate to matter of personal morality. protect the alien, the fatherless and the widow. Oxley Uniting Church member Frank Putland was Principal of the Queens- “If we stand by, then how will we answer land Police Academy from 1976 to 1983, to our God?”

... BUT YOU HAVE NEGLECTED THE MORE IMPORTANT MATTERS OF THE LAW - JUSTICE, MERCY AND FAITHFULNESS. (Matthew 23:23) 2 OPINION JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU Navigating the Message from the fi nancial crisis Moderator WHEN I was told that this Presbyteries and the mission Instead “while we were still Rev Bruce Johnson month’s Journey would take grants to congregations and faith sinners Christ died for us”. a retrospective look at the communities. God acted generously and Fitzgerald Inquiry years, I found Th is led to some risky invited us into a new reconciled myself remembering the painful investments which proved faulty. relationship with God and with period that led up to that Inquiry When compounded by the one another. and the impact upon the Uniting Global Financial Crisis we now When we feel as though we are Church in Queensland. fi nd ourselves in a situation where in the far country, facing famine Now is the time for us, as the education for lay and ordained In 1986, John Harrison took U.C.I.S cannot provide money to and living on scraps, we need to Body of Christ, to take bold new members; it funds the fi nancial a look at the fi rst 10 years of the the Mission and Service Fund. turn our face towards home. steps in serving God’s mission. and property services that life of the Uniting Church and Th is led to the decision to We need to take seriously our Rather than becoming support the Church’s mission; entitled the book Baptism of Fire cease funding a number of Synod place as children of God, entrust- protective of our past and it funds the Offi ce of Moderator and that is certainly how it felt. appointments. ed with a mission as servants with holding onto what we believe is and General Secretary and it Th e pain of those fi rst 10 years Th e danger is that in these Jesus Christ. ours, we need to act generously funds the Presbyteries. came from our attempt to express diffi cult times we want to While many predicted the and passionately to see God’s All of these areas have been the gospel we were struggling withdraw and protect what is left. demise of the Uniting Church reconciling work fulfi lled in and signifi cantly reduced in the past with the relationship between through us. 12 months. the mission of the church and the I was excited at the last Synod We also need to make all under social and political structures of Now is the time for us, as the when, on hearing of the fi nancial utilised property available to the our nation. Body of Christ, to take bold new situation we faced, people Synod so that it can be sold or We gained a reputation as a responded thoughtfully and used in new ways to serve the church that took social justice steps in serving God’s mission. prayerfully asking, “How can we mission of God. seriously, was willing to address help?” We have a tremendous amount issues that aff ected our whole We try to retreat and hold onto in Queensland because of our Part of the response was to of property that we have received community and attempted to what we believe is ours, to regain stand for justice and those who launch an immediate appeal from generations before us that bear witness to God’s reign. our sense of security. were treated poorly, the opposite inviting 1000 individuals or we regard as ours by right. Today we face a diff erent When we respond like that we happened. congregations to each contribute We need to recapture the vision experience of pain. show that we are looking for our In our attempt to proclaim the $1000. and passion for the Kingdom of Th e pain we now face is one of safety and security in the god of truths of Christ in wider social Th at appeal has raised over God that our forebears had and our own making. mammon. and political circles we were seen $100 000 so far; further generosity not simply believe that keeping We had hoped the Uniting However it is the god of as people seeking, however im- would make a signifi cant the church doors open is the same Church Investment Service mammon that has failed us, not perfectly, to live out our calling. diff erence. as sharing with Christ in making (U.C.I.S) would produce enough the God who sent the son that we According to Mark’s Gospel, We need to see an increase God’s reign known in our midst. money to pay for the work might live. Jesus said, “For those who want in giving by individuals and While we are “on the way of the Synod, allowing the Despite human sinfulness to save their life will lose it, and congregations to the Mission and together” we can only continue if contributions to the Mission and which led to our turning away those who lose their life for Service Fund. we refl ect the love and generosity Service Fund (which come from from God, God has not turned my sake, and for the sake of the Th is is the fund that enables with which God has dealt with congregations) to be used to fund away from us. gospel, will save it.” the Synod to provide theological us.

Globalising Fitzgerald Sign of the times CHRISTMAS FIRSTLY, MY special thanks suggestions on a global scale. go to John Harrison, Don No child should be held Journey launches blog site Whebell, Greg Mackay, and in an adult prison yet girls in all who contributed to this Afghanistan are forbidden It’s beginning to look a lot like blog.journeyonline.com.au. edition. an education and children in Christmas! You can also comment on we are During researching the the Congo work in conditions It may only be July but it other people’s ideas and let not Fitzgerald era I came to of slavery so we can enjoy a is time to start preparing for us know which slogans you alone understand that despite (and chocolate bar. Christmas already. think would best promote Once again the Synod the Uniting Church this perhaps due to) the Fitzgerald Who will make a public ld .ucaq Inquiry, the majority of protest like members of our Communication Services Unit Christmas. www Australians live in a society church did in the 1980s? will produce high quality, low The blog site is a place for fairly free from corruption. Where are the revolutionary cost Christmas postcards for in-depth discussion and However, there are many voices of the Uniting Church in congregations throughout innovative ideas about the issues Fitzgerald brought up Queensland? Who will stand Queensland. Church and faith, as well for the church to grapple with: up for righteousness? This year we want your help as a place to connect with issues of Christian activism, I know you are out there. deciding on the theme! other creative thinkers in the We are looking for a positive, Church. our responsibility to stand for Mardi Lumsden innovative and poignant Have your say now! Visit http:// justice for the disadvantaged, Editor and the call to ‘love our message to encourage people blog.journeyonline.com.au. neighbour’. to explore the true meaning of . And if we are called to Christmas and to invite them LOVE WAIT to attend their local Uniting GIFTS OF TIME ANDT respond the injustices in our ARE THE BES Church during the Christmas ENTS own society, we can then also CHRISTMAS PRES recognise injustices in other season. THERE’S MORE parts of the world. Tell us your ideas by simply e than logging on to the new Journey- Perhaps we can uphold There’s mor Fitzgerald’s reforms and Online blog site at http:// one man behind om.au STMAS www.ucaqld.c CHRI Journey is published 11 times a year for the Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia. Opinions expressed in Journey do not necessarily refl ect those of the editor or the policies of the Uniting Church. Acceptance of advertising does not imply endorsement; inclusion of advertising material is at the discretion of the publisher. Journey cannot guarantee the publication and/or return of submissions but makes every effort to do so if requested. Editor: Mardi Lumsden; Designer: Osker Lau; Journalist: Priscilla Raepom; Production: Communication Services Unit; Printing: Horton Media, Narangba, Circulation: 15,500; ISSN: 0817-4466; Contacts: Communication Services Unit, Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod, 60 Bayliss Street Auchenfl ower QLD GPO Box 674 UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND SYNOD Brisbane QLD 4001; Phone: (07) 3377 9910; Email: [email protected]; Fax: (07) 3377 9717; Web: www.journeyonline.com.au Closing date for editorial and advertising for August Journey is Monday, 13 July. Next issue of Journey will be available in churches on Sunday, 2 August. JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU AGENCY NEWS 3 Brave Scots praised for fi re escape

By Mardi Lumsden

STAFF AND students of Scots Harding said if it were not for PGC College in Warwick have the quick thinking of staff and been praised for their quick students the result could have response to an early morning fi re been much worse. that destroyed one of the junior “I can’t praise the boys enough What remains of the junior boys’ boarding house at Scots PGC College after the June fi re. Photo by Bruce Johnson boys’ boarding houses in June. for their quick thinking and Th e alarm was raised just leadership,” he told Th e Sunday before 3am on Saturday 13 June Mail. meant that within an hour all buildings close by were not parents there is enough space when one 14-year-old boy saw Queensland Fire and Rescue parents were contacted and told seriously damaged. to accommodate the boys next fl ames next to the bed of his Service Warwick station offi cer that their sons were safe. “I was impressed by the way semester. roommate. Dennis Burton also praised the Moderator Bruce Johnson the staff , College Council and Th e Insurance Program for the He woke his roommate up and school’s fi re drill practices. visited the College one day students were coping.” College, underwritten by Ansvar together they woke the rest of the “Th e quick thinking of the after the blaze to meet with Mr Students spoke with Insurance, does not specifi cally dormitory and sounded the fi re students and their actions in the Harding and members of staff counsellors the morning after the include cover for personal alarm. initial stages of the fi re averted and the College Council. fi re and parents have been told to property of boarders. However, A deaf student was led to safety what could have been a tragedy,” “I was shocked at the extent be alert to their children coming Ansvar has given considerable by a classmate and they waited in he told Th e Chronicle. of the destruction and greatly to terms with the destruction thought to how to best help near freezing temperatures for a “Th ey regularly practise fi re relieved to know that all students of all their worldly possessions parents who have sustained losses quick response from the local fi re drills and it certainly paid off . Th e and staff escaped from the including computers, clothes, as a result of the fi re. department. children knew what to do. building unharmed,” said Mr photos and much more. Although Ansvar has no A staff member organised “It was extremely lucky that Johnson. Th e destroyed dormitory is legal responsibility to do so, it shoes and clothes for the boys nobody was hurt.” “It is a tribute to the local one of the newest at the College. has generously made allowance who left everything to escape the Principal Mr Harding said Fire Service that, given the Th e aff ected students started for some fi nancial assistance to inferno. the College’s system of alerting obvious intensity of the fi re, it their winter holidays a little be provided to the families of College principal Michael parents of events via text message was contained and that other early, but the College has assured students for items lost in the fi re. Moderator lauds Blue Care’s iconic feat

QUEENSLAND SYNOD mod- “It is heartening to think that to congratulate everyone who Stephen Muggleton said the more than 260 locations across erator Rev Bruce Johnson this ministry which began as a has been part of this amazing awards strengthened Blue Care’s Queensland. commended Blue Care’s few people in a congregation community service over its long position as Australia’s largest not- Th e organisation has extended outstanding achievement as the seeking to meet a local need has history,” he said. for-profi t provider of community its services to provide nursing, only institution to be named now been recognised and I want Blue Care executive director health and residential aged care. personal care, allied health a 2009 Queensland Great and “As one of Queensland’s largest support, domestic assistance and Q150 Queensland Icon for its employers we’re truly grateful for social support as well as a range signifi cant role in the history and the recognition of our hardwork- of in-home and centre-based development of Australia’s Smart ing nurses and support staff ,” he respite, nursing homes, palliative State. said. care and carer support programs. Th e non-profi t organisation “Th eir tireless commitment to “With Australia’s rapidly which is a missional arm of the caring for the elderly, people with ageing population, the services Uniting Church was presented a disability and others in need is Blue Care provides are even more with these awards as part of signifi cant – they not only help important today than they were the 2009 Queensland Week people remain independent in 56 years ago,” said Mr Muggleton. celebrations held in June. their homes, they play an integral “With the number of people Blue Care is one of only four part in maintaining the social aged 80 and over expected to institutions to make the list since fabric of Queensland by keeping double in the next 20 years, it began in 2001. families and communities demand for aged care is set to Mr Johnson said the awards together.” skyrocket. were a tribute to thousands of Blue Care has grown from “Blue Care will be there staff and volunteers, who give humble beginnings, with just one continuing to deliver care their time to meet the real needs nurse in 1953 to almost 10 000 that is personal, trusted and of millions across the state. Photo courtesy of Blue Care staff and volunteers working in compassionate.” We’re listening Find out how your opinions are making a difference. The report from focus groups with Uniting Church Treasurers is now available. Visit www.ucis.com.au to download your copy.

Journey - July 2009 1300 655 653 | www.ucis.com.au 4 UNITING CHURCH NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU On a lucerne mission from God By Iven Hewett In Victoria, Bunyip and District Uniting Church minister Rev LONG-TIME Blue Care employee Ann Simons organised with Kate and Uniting Church member Shorten to distribute the lucerne Athol Cobb is doing something hay. big for farmers in fi re ravaged Each bale of prime lucerne hay Victoria. was added to fi ve bales of a lesser After World War II Mr quality hay so that as many people Cobb worked on a dairy farm in as possible could benefi t from the Victoria’s Gippsland and now he is Cobb’s generous donation. returning to give a hand to people Chinchilla-Brigalow Uniting who have lost nearly everything Church donated money to pay for in the recent Victorian bushfi res. the fuel required for the trip. In June, Mr Cobb and son Ms Shorten said the Graeme left Chinchilla for Victoria community was overwhelmed by loaded up with 100 bales of prime the generosity of the Cobb family lucerne hay for people around the and the Chinchilla-Brigalow Bunyip and district parish who Uniting Church. were in need of assistance to feed “It is with gratitude that their farm animals. the many horse families in “I thought it is something we Labertouche thank you,” she said. can do and if I was going to give “Life is getting back to a more some thing away I wanted to give normal pace, however the pasture good quality hay,” said Mr Cobb. that has been burned will need “We haven’t had bushfi res but many more months to recover.” we’ve been in drought and it’s Iven Hewett is a Community good to know you have support. Minister at Chinchilla / “Many people are helping and Brigalow Uniting Church Janice Hurford, Kate Shorten and friend lend a helping hand. Photo by Graeme Cobb we know what it’s like.” Deacon seeks world vision Letting them eat cake By Mardi Lumsden clients from Mobile Day Respite. By Matt Gees Melbourne as the head of Legal, “Tim (Costello) gets “Whilst we supplied transport Risk and Governance using hundreds of requests for TEA, SCONES and much, much for some of our clients, the WORLD VISION Australia CEO his experience as a lawyer to speaking engagements every more were consumed all over majority came by themselves and Rev Tim Costello was the guest further the ministry of World week and is not physically the state this May as part of it was great to see them support of the South Moreton Presbytery Vision. able to honour them all, so Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Blue Care and the Cancer Council recently at the induction of Bob “It involves my being the head there will be opportunity to raise funds for the Cancer in this way,” she said. Mitchell as a Deacon Intern. of World Vision Australia’s legal there for me to preach. Council Queensland. Money was raised through a Mr Mitchell has taken up department with responsibility “World Vision has over Many Uniting Church groups gold coin donation for attending a placement at World Vision for risk prevention, making 600 staff at the head offi ce and agencies served up platters of the event, as well as by personal Australia’s head offi ce in sure things like insurances with staff devotions every delectable delights in the name of donations from the Blue Care are current, undertaking peer week. fundraising. Caboolture staff and a ‘guessing reviews of staff, ensuring all the “I will also be engaging Blue Care Caboolture teamed competition’ held in the week Australian processes comply with the theological up with the Morayfi eld Uniting leading up to the morning tea with international standards discussion group that World Church in putting on a morning with prizes, coff ee and cakes and then reporting back to the Vision has, helping with tea for around 100 people and donated by local business. board,” said Mr Mitchell. leadership of prayer groups raising over $1000. U.C.I.S also hosted a morning He is also the Child Protec- and obviously also having a Blue Care Caboolture Intake tea at the Queensland Synod tion Offi cer of World Vision sacramental presence in all Offi cer Sue Gossage said a number offi ce which raised $325 for the Australia and will be part of of this.” of the attendees were Blue Care Cancer Council Queensland. the executive involved with Mr Mitchell’s intern phase the vision and strategy of the of ministry was offi cially organisation. recognised at a packed In June Mr Mitchell spent service hosted by the Wellers two weeks in Zimbabwe for an Hill Tarragindi congregation operational review of the World where Mr Mitchell and his Vision staff there. family were worshipping On top of these jobs Mr members. Mitchell, as a Uniting Church Tim Costello shared Deacon, has a responsibility to his excitement at having live out God’s call on his life to Mr Mitchell on the World specifi ed ministry. Vision Australia team and “I will be undertaking thanked the community for Bob Mitchell. preaching deputation work in “allowing” him to relocate to Enjoying the Biggest Morning Tea hosted by Morayfi eld Uniting Photo by Mardi Lumsden churches. Melbourne. Church and Blue Care Caboolture. Photo courtesy of Blue Care

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Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU UNITING CHURCH NEWS 5 Alistair Macrae: New President

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By Meera Atkinson before the family moved to for Th eology and Ministry, where image to me,” he said. However, is another big challenge and Melbourne. he has spent the past fi ve years. he admitted that he will assume that the Uniting Church needs HE HAS worked as a bar tender, As a young man he took time Mr Macrae’s choice of the the Presidency at a testing time to strengthen its partnership almost became a Taizé monk, calls out of his arts degree to travel Living Water Th irsty Land for the church. with the Uniting Aboriginal and himself a “mainstream Uniting around Europe, spending a year theme for the 12th Assembly was “Mainstream churches in Islander Christian Congress to Church Basis of Union” man, a at the Taizé community when he inspired by a photo of a 4WD Ute Australia and elsewhere are in a model reconciliation within our “broken down footballer who was 19. in Th e Age. Two young people crisis situation. own life. didn’t know when to retire” and Having completed his arts were found dead under their Ute “Do we go into shutdown Environmental issues confront was once jailed for participating in degree Mr Macrae was called to in outback Australia having run and fear mode, or consider that the whole of society and Mr a protest blockade of the Franklin ministry. out of petrol and then water. maybe God wants us to do and be Macrae said the Christian River (he has no criminal record as Following his Dublin-based Afterwards, local Indigenous something diff erent? church needs to off er stronger Bob Hawke subsequently cleared post-graduate studies he served in people said if the travellers had “Our position in society has leadership. the activists). Meet Rev Alistair three congregational placements known where to look they would radically changed. He also identifi ed that the Macrae, the next President of the in Victoria and chaired the have found life-giving water “Most of us see the threat in “multi-cultural reality” of the Uniting Church in Australia. Assembly Sexuality Task group within 200 metres of where they that but we need, as a church, to church needed attention. Mr Macrae, aged 52, lives in between 1992 and 1997. were stranded. see the opportunities. He added that partner church Melbourne with his wife, Clare, He was Moderator of the For Mr Macrae this story spoke “I want to say, ‘Park the fear and ecumenical relationships a writer, and three of his four Synod of Victoria and Tasmania to the nature and mission of the and trust God’. It’s about what are also important as is the children. and a young adult discipleship church. mindset we bring to the current development of appropriate Raised by a minister father, Mr educator before taking the helm as “Th e church as witness to crisis.” and eff ective approaches to Macrae grew up in rural Victoria Executive Director for the Centre living water is a very energising Mr Macrae said reconciliation evangelism.

requires many volunteers, and NCYC 2011, to be held on the NCYC 2011 looks set to bring then the host synod has to bear Gold Coast, is already shaping up the convention back better than NCYC lives on the cost. to be a new-style NCYC. ever. “Th e 11th Assembly decision “It will be located at one venue, “NCYC 2011 is accessible By Meera Atkinson Development Consultant for to discontinue the Specifi ed so there’s no transport, the idea fi nancially and to diff erent cultural the National Assembly, said Ministry of Youth Worker has left being to build a community on groups and I hope people will give FOR THE ‘true believers’ who the continuing need for NCYC that area diminished. site. it a high priority,” said Ms Boyce. attended the National Christian was particularly expressed “Th e network of Youth Workers “Th e program will have a lot “We don’t want people to come Youth Convention (NCYC) by young people from the isn’t there in the same way and more fl uidity and there will be a along simply to be numbers at National Consultation recently, Uniting Aboriginal and Islander some synods have had to cut greater seeking of collaboration.” NCYC – we want their presence the future of the event looked Christian Congress and migrant positions so there’s a sense that “Th ere’s recognition that we to impact on the way we do the uncertain. communities. the natural building blocks that want more continuity and to event so young people can engage Held in Adelaide in May, “Of the 880 in attendance at would have been a foundation for collaborate more nationally with meaningfully together.” the consultation was convened NCYC 2009, some 300 (34%) were NCYC have moved.” agencies, groups and networks to discuss the viability of the from other cultural backgrounds,” But the re-imagining of NCYC along with a local logistics team.” biennial Convention. With said Ms Boyce. “It makes us refl ect that is now taking place may dwindling numbers and intensive on how we organise it and who we provide one solution. organisational needs in recent organise it for.” “If we continued to use the years, it was thought that Th e primary aim of NCYC is to model we’ve had up until now I continuing it into the future may encourage a deeper relationship think we’d all be prepared to say not be feasible. with God and to off er an NCYC has had its life and let’s put However, fears were soon experience of being part of a it to bed,” Ms Boyce said. allayed by a fi rm recommitment community of faith, active service “But the consultation has really to the event by those at the and witness. It is also an occasion invigorated the concept.” consultation. for young people to discover Th e shift is to see NCYC as a In particular, the young people Christian faith for the fi rst time. movement not just an event. in attendance, to whom NCYC However NCYC has felt the “Th ere will be monthly is targeted, affi rmed it as a vital pressure of changing times. gatherings and there’s an idea chance to be challenged and “It’s an awesome event to for young people to gather for a encouraged in their faith. organise,” said Ms Boyce. weekend of intentional training, Sandy Boyce, National Faith “It takes at least three years, resourcing and coaching. EDUCATION AND VALUE FOR LIFE Clayfield College Somerville House Girls: Prep to Year 12 Boarding: Girls over 10 years Day and boarding school for girls Preparatory to Year 12 Boys: Prep to Year 5 (07) 3248 9200 www.somerville.qld.edu.au (07) 3262 0262 www.clayfield.qld.edu.au Brisbane Boys’ College Sunshine Coast Grammar School Boarding and day school for boys in Prep to Year 12 Co-educational day school Preschool to Year 12 (07) 3309 3500 www.bbc.qld.edu.au (07) 5445 4444 www.scgs.qld.edu.au

Journey - July 2009 Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association www.pmsa-schools.edu.au A ministry of the Uniting and Presbyterian Churches, providing excellence in education in a Christian and caring environment. 6 RECONCILIATION WEEK JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU

What does this year’s theme ‘See the person, not the stereotype’ mean for you?

See the person, Leonie Joseph, Counsellor, to challenge the stereotypical Indigenous Family Care perception, by acknowledging Service, Lifeline Coral Coast that time is needed to refl ect Capricorn, Bundaberg and understand, to heal and “Historical events have to respectfully seek solutions not the stereotype created a stereotype that together.” needs to be deconstructed and reconstructed to value the By Priscilla Raepom Th e event off ers an oppor- commitments to reconciliation. traditional past and to sustain tunity for all Australians to focus Journey asked the following the cultural identity into the THIS YEAR’S National Recon- on reconciliation and celebrate people their views on the national future. ciliation Week held last month the rich culture and history of event. “Th ere have been many marked its 13th anniversary with Indigenous Australians. successes and achievements Full story at which have been the result of the theme, ‘See the person, not It is a time to refl ect on www.journeyonline.com.au the stereotype’. achievements and to renew positive government policies and positive community attitudes and actions. What do you think of the that fail to recognise and value “As a nation Australia needs our contribution to this land in to be encouraged to see our culture and history of the way we have maintained it for Indigenous Australians? Aborigines and Torres Strait thousand of years. Islanders as individuals and Leonie Joseph “It is the oldest living culture in Vince Ross, National the world and to this very day can Chairperson of Uniting provide the answer to many of Aboriginal and Islander the social, physical and spiritual How did you feel when you heard the National Christian Congress issues that people face in these Apology to the Stolen Generation by Prime Minister “I strongly believe that times. the Creator gave us our land “I value our culture in this Kevin Rudd at last year’s event? and our language and the 21st century that continues to be Damien Conley, Principal “At Blue Care we have responsibility to care for this proactive in the way it challenges Advisor Rural and Remote worked tirelessly to make our nation. people to turn away from a Services, Blue Care, Brisbane Indigenous Care Strategy a “We have been dehuman- materialistic society to a holistic “Th e National Apology success. ised by government policies way of life that is sustainable.” VInce Ross was an incredibly moving “Th e commitment and event for me and when the willingness within our Prime Minister said, ‘For the organisation to take up the How do you see the aspirations of reconciliation pain, suff ering and hurt of challenge to commit to these Stolen Generations, redressing the unacceptable “To come together is not coming to fruition in the future? their descendants and for 17-year life gap between easy. their families left behind, we Indigenous and non- “Th ere is a cost, sometimes Richard Cassady, Youth staff to hold a State Schools’ say sorry’. For me this was a Indigenous peoples makes me fi nancial, sometimes to give Families and Community conference in the Ipswich region poignant moment in Australia’s extremely proud to be a part of and take in other ways for all Coordinator, Th e Gap Uniting in 1999. history. Blue Care.” Church, Brisbane “I still have vivid memories of parties. “In 1998 I was part of the closing ceremony where the “For the school at a delegation of six senior student assembly broke out in Bundamba that investment students (three Indigenous song with ‘Oh Happy Day’. in those six students meant a What can Australians do to strengthen reconciliation and three non Indigenous) “I visited the school a couple return 100 fold in positives and in their own communities? from Bundamba Secondary of weeks ago and met a member it laid a spirit of willingness to College to attend the fi rst of the Indigenous community overcome cultural diversity by Rae Mavor, retired ESL to grasp opportunities big or National Youth Reconciliation who remarked on the positive staff and students. and Multicultural Education small and to speak out when Conference in Darwin. environment at the school and “It seems reconciliation can Teacher, Gold Coast attitudes of prejudice show “Th e conference inspired spoke of the platform laid down work if all parties are willing to “It is important to know themselves, even among the Bundamba students and many years ago. participate.” ourselves and our attitudes, friends and family.

How can we better learn from Indigenous people? What do you think are some problems if the shoe fits... Dr Robert Bos, Director of and, with a little time and Pilgrim Learning Community encouragement, begin to share hindering the re- “It takes time to befriend their lives and their stories. conciliation process? people and get to know them. “Get to know an Indigenous Rev Jan Whyte, Congrega- I have invariably found people person. You will be enriched tion Minister, St Paul’s to be gracious, hospitable and humbled.” – Mackay Uniting Church, Mackay “Reconciliation breaks down when we are blink- ered by fear of what we do not know, when we fail to OBERAMMAGAU PASSION PLAY engage in open communi- AND HOLY LAND TOUR cation that banishes fear, ignorance and distrust, and when we forget it is a two Visit Imperial Europe, Greece, Holy land way process. We neet to here are some big boots that need fi lling in Australia’s Outback – boots and Africa in May-June 2010 celebrate our unity as God’s Tthat will take you to amazing places as you embark on a ministry that is sons and daughters.” as diverse as the vast and varied landscape in which you’ll serve.

Frontier Services would like to hear from Ministers and Deacons who might be interested in serving as a Patrol Minister. This is a role in which you’ll For brochures on various travel thousands of kilometres providing friendship, comfort and spiritual options and prices contact: guidance and, sometimes, ‘hands-on’ assistance to people on remote properties, mine sites and Aboriginal communities. We currently have 23 Cec & Fay Schloss Patrol Ministries with vacancies in WA’s West Kimberley Ministry (Derby), a joint placement with Congress, and the Gascoyne Patrol (Exmouth). P. [07] 3264 5430 We have a new placement for the Croajingalong Ministry E. (Mallacoota, VIC), a joint Uniting/Anglican placement. [email protected] A. 7 Listonia Drive, Albany To fi nd out more about Patrol Ministry, contact the Rev David Thiem on (02) 8270 1322 Creek. Q. 4035 [email protected] or Jenna Cohn on (02) 8270 1321 [email protected]. Jan Whyte

Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU FITZGERALD - WHAT DID WE LEARN? 7 Issues unaddressed

By Mardi Lumsden stop the act was passed in 1992. “Th e culture remained the same; Marg O’Donnell said these from decades of political misuse In 1987 Siyavash Doostkhah we need to target the culture. changes provided, “great processes and even attack; and they are 17-YEAR-OLDS have no place had arrived in Queensland from “Th e issue of 17-year-olds in for government accountability”. weakening again.” in adult prisons, the Queensland Iran to a state abuzz with reform adult prison is one example of the As a former Director-General QUT School of Justice lecturer Synod reminded the Queensland and a desire for openness and things neglected. of three Queensland Government Dr Mark Lauchs said the key Government in May 2007, but accountability. “It demonstrates the ethical departments Ms O’Donnell saw legislative points that came out still no action has been taken to Now, as the Director of bankruptcy of the of Fitzgerald’s report have implement a policy recommended the Youth Aff airs Network system.” had little eff ect because in the landmark Fitzgerald Report Queensland, he is frustrated But the Inquiry did lead The churches’ role as they have been watered twenty years ago this month. with the lack of response to the to many positive reforms moral arbiters ... is to down over time. UnitingCare Queensland Fitzgerald Report. including Freedom of “Take Freedom of Director Anne Cross, and “For 23 years I have been Information legislation, maintain the rage and be Information, eff ectively former Synod Social Justice dumbfounded by the lack Judicial Review, the willing to have a say the government has the Advocate Andrew Johnson, told of adherence to Fitzgerald’s creation of the Criminal ability to ensure that if it the 2007 Synod that keeping recommendations,” he said. Justice Commission has something it doesn’t 17-year-olds in adult prisons “Th ey didn’t invest for the (later the Crime and Misconduct the benefi ts of the post-Fitzgerald want to release, it doesn’t have to. defi ed international obligations magnitude of change required. Commission or CMC) and the changes but has been disap- “Th ere is no safety valve on under the United Nations Con- Th ere is no safety for people to be Electoral and Administrative pointed by the lack of adherence that for the public because it is an vention on the Rights of the whistleblowers. Th ey scapegoated Review Commission (EARC). to such changes. absolute exemption. Child and that State legislation to a few top cops then left it at that. Legal Aid Queensland Chair “Th e EARC was very open. “Th e Fitzgerald Inquiry took Every submission sent to EARC away the idea that everything was published,” she said. was right with the world. It made “Th is made dialogue possible. everybody suspicious.” Yet this level of positive process However Dr Lauchs said the has never been fully repeated. Inquiry was not an indicator of “Under subsequent govern- a signifi cant undercurrent of ments the powers of the CMC corruption because if that was the have been diminished; Freedom case, everything would have been of Information watered down to covered up. the point that the whole system “Th at is not what it found and needed revamping; and some not what it was. If that was true parts of government, such as gov- then the Inquiry wouldn’t have ernment owned corporations are happened. even less accountable.” “Th e best initiative in Ms O’Donnell has other fears Queensland as far as corruption too. “I’m quite concerned about prevention goes came from the aggressive police powers.” Uniting Church, because it came “We’ve seen an increasing from Noel Preston who argued number and range of off ences. for an Integrity Commissioner.” “Fitzgerald wanted increased UQ academic John Harrison checks and balances to ensure recalls Dr Preston was short- police good behaviour and this is listed for the position, but the no longer the case.” selection panel – Premier Peter She also said that government Beattie, Catholic Archbishop decision-making was no longer John Battersby, and Premier’s open and accountable. Department DG Glyn Davis “Decisions are now largely – opted for a safe pair of hands, made prior to going to the the recently retired Supreme stakeholders. We need public Court Justice Alan Demack, a policy dialogues.” Uniting Church layperson from Director of the UnitingCare Rockhampton. Centre for Social Justice Greg “I think they were a little afraid Mackay said the State may be that Noel would take the job ready for another inquiry. seriously and rock the boat. “I believe our institutions are “Premiers, archbishops and once again so compromised that senior bureaucrats all have an it is time for another Fitzgerald- aversion to meddlesome priests,” style shake up,” he said. said Dr Harrison. “As well as constant vigil we “Regardless of the parties, we need to make our voices heard. are heading back towards more of “We must not blindly believe that ‘trust me’ style of governing”, all is well as if it is an article of said Dr Lauchs. faith; we need to know and be “Th e churches’ role as moral confi dent. arbiters in society is to maintain “Our democratic institutions the rage and be willing to have a Counting the takings, date unknown. Photo courtesy of the Phil Dickie Investigative Journalism were still highly vulnerable say.” Collection. Fryer Library. The University of Queensland post-Fitzgerald having emerged A brighter future -ee the `iffere˜Ve th>t Vœ“eà Üith «>˜˜i˜g ޜur w˜>˜Vi> future° œœŽ ޜur free] ˜œ œbig>tiœ˜ >««œi˜t“e˜t Üith i˜>˜Vi> A`ÛiÃer +ui˜ti˜ uVhe tœ`>Þ° freeV>\£nää ÇÇÎ xä™ ÜÜÜ°w˜>˜Vi>«>˜˜i˜g°uViðVœ“°>u AuthœriÃe` ,e«reÃe˜t>tiÛeà i˜>˜Vi> -erÛiVeà *>rt˜erà *tÞ i“ite` A £x än™ x£Ó xnÇ A- œ° ÓÎÇx™ä Journey - July 2009 8 FITZGERALD - WHAT DID WE LEARN? JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU Church ethics and corruption REFLE

By Mardi Lumsden “We must engage, act and “There is every reason for The religious fi gure then refl ect and learn for the Christians to be guardians next engagement,” he said. against corruption and the THE UNITING Church has By Don Whebell Swiss theologian Karl Barth, “The history of the Fitzgerald abuse of power,” he said. always stood for social justice. in the midst of the turmoil of process and the issues around “If we fail to challenge It’s in our denominational DNA. SOMEONE RECENTLY recalled World War II said his own daily it, as well as the response or lack corruption we fail to love our In the 1880s and 1890s our my fi rst induction as Moderator in reading was the Bible and the daily of response to it by people of neighbour. former denominations rallied - 1989 and that I’d said something newspaper. faith, even 20 years on, provides quite literally - against alcohol “Just as the church is in like it was important that people He was calling on Christians a profound learning experience and prostitution. constant need of reformation, read not only their Bibles, but the to be aware of the realities of the about Christian witness in so the Christian citizen works From fi ghting for Indigenous Fitzgerald Report – and discover world and the greater realities of society.” with God to constantly renew land rights in the nineteen what each had to say about the the judgement of the word that Former Uniting Church Social the world. sixties, seventies and eighties, other. God was speaking through Jesus Justice Advocate (1988-2000) and upholding Tony Fitzgerald “I learnt from Reinhold It was not an entirely original Christ. Mark Young agreed that there during his investigation into Niebuhr that the conjunction statement. My fi rst term as Moderator is still much to learn from the police corruption, to the fi ght of self-righteousness, self- Fitzgerald Report and the years today to keep 17-year-olds out delusional innocence and of corruption prior to it. of adult prisons, the Uniting political power is a most Church has been an ethical “The casualties were not only dangerous mix. watchdog. minority groups which dared to “I have seen that mix in disagree, but also the integrity Ethicist and retired Uniting action in several periods of of the judiciary, government and Church minister Rev Dr Noel political history across my parliament. Preston said the Christian faith lifetime. In a real sense, that has always inspired a passion “The Fitzgerald Inquiry, and was the phenomenon Tony for social justice. its ensuing reforms, clarifi ed the Fitzgerald uncovered in the boundaries between these three Bjelke-Petersen years.” “Christianity is a political vital elements of democracy. faith,” he said. Dr Preston said people “I believe the churches’ needed to be continually “It is about a way of life; the leadership and membership aware of potential corruption Christ way, which engages with were able to contribute positively of power, in the community the powers that be, as Jesus’ to Queensland’s democratic as well as in the church. way to the cross demonstrates. renewal, whether it was done “Religious faith organis- “Christian belief must lead adeptly or otherwise. ations are still learning to the expression of a practical “Two decades later it is still about what it means to be ethic if it is to have integrity. important for the institutions democratic and transparent, Central to that ethic will be a and professions of civil society that is, how power can be primary concern for the most including people of faith, misused. disadvantaged.” to remain vigilant about the “We may be offended to Dr Preston said that while wellbeing of democracy.” think that corruption lurks there may be a simple ‘Christian Dr Preston said the Church’s behind church pillars, pulpits line’ when it came to some fi ght against corruption stemmed and curtains, but potentially it public policy, individuals needed from Jesus’ teaching to love does. to be active in issues of social your neighbour. justice. “We should not forget that in the lead up to the Fitz- Don Whebell graces the cover of The Courier Mail in October 1989 gerald catharsis, historically the churches stood by and refused to question how the affairs of state were being run. The Social Justice A “The danger remains today that we are still basically on the sidelines, preoccupied By Mark Young that the existing legislation with our own problems rather in Queensland discouraged than engaging with the body I WAS WORKING as the Synod’s homosexual men from coming politic. Social Responsibility offi cer forward for AIDS testing due to “The call to repentance when the Fitzgerald Report was fear of prosecution. is at the heart of the Biblical submitted to the Queensland message of the prophets – but Parliament on 3 July 1989. only those who are prepared Th e Report followed a two to examine themselves and year judicial inquiry, led by Tony make the changes we are Fitzgerald QC, and went some called to, have the credibility way towards restoring respect for to call others to repentance. democracy in Queensland. “So we (the church), as well One of the recommendations as other parts of society, need of the Fitzgerald Report was to rehear Tony Fitzgerald’s that the state should review its words at the conclusion of laws regarding voluntary sexual his report: behaviour. “Vigilance is constantly A Parliamentary Criminal Jus- needed to name the vested tice Committee (CJC) was conse- interests which will avoid quently commissioned to consider and subvert real reform while the proposed decriminalisation of creating a new, attractive but homosexuality. Tony Fitzgerald QC addresses hollow facade to hide the Churches were divided by the Christian groups in the late continuing misuse of power government’s proposal. 1980s. Photo courtesy of and misconduct.” the Journey archives Th e Uniting Synod Social Responsibility Committee argued Mark Young

Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU FITZGERALD - WHAT DID WE LEARN? 9 ECTIONS The prisoner

coincided with the release of was made in the sermon at the pretty rough. I was grateful for the Report of the Commission Synod gathering in Festival Hall. those who worked with me and of Enquiry into Possible Illegal It went ahead of me around the concerned for those who felt Activities and Associated Police state and gave opportunities to try they couldn’t. Misconduct in Queensland. to encourage people to catch hold Th ere was a change in Th e Commission, led by Tony of the challenges confronting our Queensland’s Government and Fitzgerald QC, created a wide- society. Translating the sermon our Synod took an active role, ranging debate about corruption in into action was the big job. encouraging people to vote in Queensland’s public institutions. Jesus’ message to the Nazareth the light of the Gospel, and not Th e Synod met in October synagogue (Luke 4) was addressed party-politics. 1989 and issues that arose from also to us. Th e Gospel always During the election cam- the Enquiry were not far from our is! And that wasn’t terribly paign a wide range of issues attention – nor from the concern comforting. were up for debate. of other churches. Th e churches were, as always, To give some leadership Th e comment about reading in a situation that called us out of in responding to them Mark the Bible and the Fitzgerald Report our comfort zones and into living Young (the then Synod Social Christ’s Gospel in action. Justice Advocate) put together We all knew that corruption a discussion booklet pointing existed, and that there was to where the Uniting Church the occasional rogue in our stood on moral issues including: institutions, but did little about it. abortion, capital punishment, Debbie Kilroy. Photo courtesy of Sisters Inside Inc Fitzgerald made it very public. homosexuality, fi rearms, the People in the churches who environment, Aboriginal sacred By Debbie Kilroy the bars because the bars are spoke as prophets were often told sites, economic justice, and dividing our community; they to shut up and leave politics out of much more. Twenty years on I WAS IN Boggo Rd pre-Fitzgerald remove the marginalised and often the pulpit. much of that is still before us. as a 17 and 18-year-old and then the innocent. Over many years, we’d heard So too is the Gospel that again just after Fitzgerald. We are now, more than ever, the mantra from Premier Bjelke- speaks the Good News and I watched Fitzgerald unfold, massively increasing the imprison- Petersen and others in his Cabinet needs to be heard afresh. I got out of prison and my life ment of Aboriginal women, of that the churches had no role in Th e Word of God on changed. We started Sisters Inside. people with mental illness, people the public domain. whom salvation depends is I studied social work and more who are poor, those struggling Debate about that followed me to be heard and known from recently became a lawyer. with alcohol and drugs, and even around the state, with many of our Scripture appropriated in the Th roughout all of this time I’ve people with learning disabilities. people responding. worshipping and witnessing watched and wondered just what Now many people are there Many people had been life of the Church. Th e Uniting happened about our dreams and because our vast middle class longing to see the church active Church lays upon its members hopes that what Fitzgerald was doesn’t want to look at those who in confronting the corruption the serious duty of reading recommending would lead to a are unsightly. exposed by the Fitzgerald Report. the Scriptures, commits its more compassionate, coherent, Th ere were changes after Fit- Others in the church and the ministers to preach from and sensible world. But somehow zgerald in the men’s prison, it was community were quite angry. these and to administer the it hasn’t. obvious and stood out; manage- Some letters, mostly anony- sacraments of Baptism and Instead it seems to have come ment was changed, improvements mous, were threatening: pretty the Lord’s Supper as eff ective full circle to today. In fact I believe started. disturbing when they’re signed signs of the Gospel set forth in the way prison is, and the way we But not in the very small 9. Image courtesy of Don Whebell ‘yours in Christ’! the Scriptures. (Basis of Union, treat the most marginalised of women’s prison because it was not On a personal level that was para 5) our fellow citizens, is worse than in the public eye, but after a murder before Fitzgerald. in early 1990 changes came, In those days we knew that the including problem management. in what the churches had to say people in prison were usually there Over the past few years I have about a piece of legislation. because of serious off ences. seen a young Aboriginal woman Advocate Clearly there was politics afoot, Want to In those days prison was brutal (along with many others) ruined but there was also a refreshingly and bad stuff happened there. by the criminal justice system, but Th is was not a popular open style of leadership, evidenced learn more? Now it is much more diffi cult to she is the most beautiful person position amongst Uniting Church by the fact that the Parliamentary expose the horrors being done and with a great heart but who has congregations, many of which CJC held public hearings to infl icted on people. been exposed to the system. preferred the stance taken by the consider the range of strongly held Listen It is almost impossible to see She is caught again and again Baptist, Presbyterian and Lutheran opinions. The Griffi th University Key it through the veneer off ered by a system that is not oriented Churches in expressing complete In hindsight it was apparent Centre for Ethics, Law, Justice by the marketing, the rules, the to rehabilitation but seemingly to opposition to law reform. that the government was divided and Governance Inaugural imagery, the public media, and the ensuring people re-off end. Ever mindful of the infl uence of about the concept of a Preamble, Tony Fitzgerald Lecture. architecture of our new prisons. Now I am afraid that she has the churches in matters of personal which tried to separate messages Tuesday 28 July 2009, at the Prisons look nice; people claim been broken by the system and no morality, the government took the about personal morality from the State Library of Queensland. they are like resorts. Th is cannot one sees it or understands it. unusual step of providing church process of repealing an inadequate Speaker will be Justice Arthur be further from the truth. Is this what Fitzgerald wanted? leaders, including the Moderator law. Chaskalson, former Chief Do you have any idea of what it Debbie Kilroy was incarcer- of the Uniting Church and the I am supposing that the Justice of South Africa would be like to lose your freedom, ated at 13, a mother at 17, Archbishop of the Anglican Queensland Attorney-General at to be vulnerable to the whims of a witness to a violent murder Church, with a preview of a the time, Deane Wells MP (a former Read system that brutalises? and jailed for drug traffi cking Preamble to the proposed Bill. university lecturer in philosophy) People who were in prison Daring to do what is right: the at 28. 12 years later she Th is Preamble included a and the young head of the Offi ce when I was would go so far as to story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. was awarded the Order of statement that “Parliament neither of Premier and Cabinet, Kevin say we’d prefer the old Boggo Rd By Terence Copley Australia for her fearless condones nor condemns the acts Rudd (less than a decade past his still be there, not because it was Religious and Moral Education campaign for the rights of which cease to be criminal because Student Christian Movement days pleasant but because we could press, 2008 women prisoners through her of this legislation”. at university) wanted ‘clear air’ in protest against the brutalisation, organisation Sisters Inside. It was one of the few times which the matter could be debated, we could go on the rooftops, we Read the Fitzgerald Report at In 2004 she was awarded during my involvement with Synod free of the instinctive conservatism could get information to visitors, www.cmc.qld.gov.au the Australian Human Rights social responsibility matters (from displayed in the 1970s and 1980s the media had more access, as did Medal and in 2008 was 1988 to 2000) that the government by the then Premier Joh Bjelke- lawyers and advocates. admitted as a lawyer of the day took a proactive interest Petersen. It is time for us to think outside

Journey - July 2009 1100 NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU Telling tales helps grow faith

FAITH STORIES, the Queens- They discovered a land Synod’s new resource for community that offered more congregations, was launched than they expected and stayed in Redcliffe Uniting Church last around to grow a faith with a month. new supportive family. The eight week course, written Greg Adsett has had a by Duncan Macleod and Graham lifetime of involvement in the Beattie, features Redcliffe church. minister Peter Armstrong as the His father, Graeme, is a narrator, along with members of Uniting Church minister. the congregation talking about Mr Adsett’s commitment to the ways they started their follow God as a teenager was journeys of faith. strengthened by the support of Jacqui Le Roux grew up in a peers in his youth group and by home where the word God was observance of God changing only used as a swear word. lives in the drop-in centres they At the age of 15 she noticed ran. one of her friends had a natural Peter Armstrong said he way of talking with God. She hasn’t seen a course quite like remembers her friend asking Faith Stories. God, “Please help us fi nd a car “It is great to have a resource park”. that connects our faith with Ms Le Roux remembers listening skills, an awareness thinking, “I didn’t know you of what God is doing in the could talk to God like that”. lives of people and a broad She was shocked. She’d understanding of the gospel,” thought that God was a bit of a he said. Faith Stories presenter Rev Peter Armstrong. Photo by Osker Lau ‘meanie’ and a task driver. That “It’s not a course instructing prayer started Ms Le Roux on you on how to convert people. understanding of your faith and and confi dence to share your To order Faith Stories contact a journey discovering that she “Faith Stories is about your life. faith in effective and powerful Vision for Mission Advocate could talk to God as a friend. equipping Christians with the “It will encourage you to ways.” Duncan Macleod at the Rob Williams went to skills and knowledge they strengthen your relational The course is available as Queensland Synod Redcliffe Uniting Church four need to bring their best to their networks with family, friends a DVD with eight short fi lm offi ce on 07 3377 9809, years ago with his wife to have relationships. and the workplace, and in segments and a printable 0439 828 718 or email their son Cameron baptised. “It’s about deepening the those contexts have the skills participants’ manual. [email protected] John Calvin’s 500th Birthday

By Peter Lockhart Religion is a monumental work of did not choose me I chose you”, a Christian scholar who explored through Paul, to Augustine and THIS JULY marks the 500th in detail and sought to explain the into the Western theological anniversary of the birth of one of content of the faith. tradition. the most infl uential theologians in Th e infl uence of his scholarship Th is tradition included the the history and philosophy of the on much of the Protestant West other Continental Reformers Uniting Church – John Calvin. should not be underestimated nor like Luther, Melanchthon and When Calvin’s name is his impact on Western culture at Zwingli. mentioned two things spring large. Despite this, whatever to mind for those with some A few centuries after this your view on this issue of understanding of church history: publication economist Max predestination, I encourage you Th e Institutes of Christian Weber coined the phrase not to throw the baby out with the Religion and the doctrine of ‘protestant work ethic’ as a way of bathwater as John Calvin still has predestination. describing Calvin’s impact. things for us to hear. Anonymous. John Calvin. 1550s. Th e Institutes of Christian Whether interpreted as Calvin Remembering Calvin’s birth- intended or not his writings have day for me is to remember that continued to infl uence theology he is one of the communion of and the culture of the West for saints. ARPA 500 years and are still worth He is one of that great cloud of Communications Training Day 2009 reading. witnesses that surrounds us. Saturday August 1, 10am - 4.30pm Unfortunately, once the second Read out of their context and The Media Centre, University of Queensland of these issues is brought up often into our present reality through the discussion heads down a the power of the Holy Spirit when Two sessions of hands-on workshops to assist you to improve communications pathway that is very critical. we listen to Calvin, just as we within your church and community and to get your stories in to the media. Often Calvin is misunderstood listen to any of the other faithful Workshops include: as placing predestination as the witnesses of the ages, the question • Basic photo editing techniques with Photoshop centrepiece of his theological must be asked, “Can we not hear • Hands-on digital photography enterprise. God’s eternal Word speaking to • Raising your church profile • Improving communications within your church Put simply, it was not. Rather, us the good news?” • Producing better pew bulletins in defending the idea that God I believe the answer to this is • Story writing skills is utterly sovereign and utterly yes. • Plus a seminar where four extraordinary people share their faith and gracious Calvin was backed into a Peter Lockhart is minister at passion corner defending Paul’s comments Clayfi eld Hamilton Uniting Minimum and maximum numbers apply per session. Full day cost (two on predestination. Church and lectures on sessions) $45 (inc refreshments and lunch). Half day registration available. Th e thread of this theology Reform in the 16th Century at For more information email [email protected] or phone 3835 runs from Jesus’ words, “You Trinity Theological College 2283. Bookings essential. Book online at www.ucaqld.com.au Read more about John Calvin at www.ccel.org An activity of the Australasian Religious Press Association – Queensland Chapter or www.historylearningsite.co.uk

Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU FEATURE 1111 Food for nothing, any scraps for free

By Priscilla Raepom

WE LIVE in a world of great extremes. One of these is the increasing gap between food shortage and food wastage. Hunger is a daily reality for many and according to Foodbank, the largest hunger relief organisation in Australia, two million Australians rely on food relief every year; half of whom are children. In contrast Australians have a chronic habit of wasting food despite the global fi nancial crisis and a hike in food prices. Action group Do Something chairman Jon Dee was quoted earlier this year saying Australians waste about $5 billion worth of food annually. Th e government has been challenged to put mechanisms in place to better manage food wastage, but some individuals are employing alternative living strategies based on limited participation in the conventional economy and minimal consumption of resources. Th is anti-consumerist The ‘dumpster’ food Thomas Day and a friend collected for his wedding. Photo courtesy of Thomas Day lifestyle, called freeganism, started in the mid 1990s out process of removing locks to “Also, catering our entire “Most staff who might catch involvement from individuals; of the anti-globalisation and gain access to it. wedding with dumpster food was you are fi ne. Th ey are forced to but that’s a bigger issue. environmentalist movements and “Even if you don’t choose to a pretty amazing experience. throw away all this good food so “Practicality, the government is thriving in Australia. take drastic measures it is an “I work as a wedding they’re probably sympathetic. could charge businesses more for ‘Freegans’ salvage discarded illegal act as the supermarkets photographer and see a lot “Management or security waste which would force them, unspoiled food or items from see it as stealing. of money and waste that guards are rarely interested in the if only for fi nancial reasons, supermarket dumpsters for “Typically we go after goes into weddings. social justice reasons for taking to put perishable foods on political reasons rather than hours when shops are shut “Th e cost of the average food from bins.” special or look at more creative out of need. Th is act is known and have disposed of their Australian wedding now ranges ways of using them. as dumpster diving. ‘waste’ for the day.” between $25 000 and $40 000. J: What is your role in the “Government and councils Journey caught up with “Th ere is nothing wrong with Waiters Union community could also assist in setting up seasoned ‘dumpster diver’ J: Why dumpster dive? wanting your wedding to be an orientation course? an eff ective network for swift Th omas Day, a community TD: “Th e level of food waste unforgettable day, but my wife TD: “I facilitate workshops on distribution of ‘wasted’ food.” development and arts worker with from urban super- activism, non-violence the Waiters Union Community markets is unjust and The level of food waste and peacemaking as J: What could individuals, Network in Brisbane to get an amounts to crimin- part of the course, restaurants and supermarkets insight into the practice. ality. from supermarkets which is an opportunity do? Mr Day said while it is “Th ere are over two is unjust and for small groups to TD: “I think it’s hard for important to remember that million people living come and live with institutions that have to meet privileged people choose to seek in poverty in Australia, amounts to criminality. us in West End and the unrealistic consumer food from bins, it is in itself an not to mention experience a range of expectations such as “we don’t ironic luxury as those below the the fourth world conditions and I were interested in ways that ways that people are trying to like yellowy garlic”. poverty line have been doing this many Aboriginal people are we could do that which didn’t serve in this community. “Some links in the chain of for as long as supermarkets have still allowed to live in. bankrupt us, or our families. “We take people dumpster waste can be cut if people buy existed. “I try to get wasted food “Th e guests thought that the diving as part of a community their food from local businesses. to people who need it in our oven baked pizzas were the best course and last year we took a “Supermarkets could partner Journey: How does a typical neighbourhood, which is they’d ever tasted. teacher, nurse and social worker with local restaurants, or run session work? what the Food Not Bombs “We got everything apart to the bins for the fi rst time.” aff ordable cafes as part of their Th omas Day: “Th ere are movement does.” from the vegan wedding cake supermarkets, selling daily diff erent levels of commitment from the bin.” J: What could the government specials based around food that people make to ‘liberating J: Do you have a dumpster do about the $5 billion of food would otherwise be wasted. their potatoes’. diving highlight? J: Have you had any wasted annually in Australia? “Ultimately, stronger, localised “In many places you can just TD: “We have salvaged 10kg challenges? TD: “I’m not sure it is just the communities based on more than reach into the bins, but in more bags of rice thrown out because TD: “Many supermarkets government’s job. merely fi nancial transactions are posh suburbs they lock the bins. of a small tear in the bag, whole are against you going through “When it comes to food and the solution.” “Th ere are other choices to boxes of organic fruit, around their bins. community, deferring to the NB: All views expressed in this ar- be made around the injustice 5kg of chocolate one time, “Th ere are public health and government only increases a lack ticle are those of the interviewees of locked up food and the and lots of cheese. insurance issues involved. of personal responsibility and alone.

Journey - July 2009 1122 WHAT’S ON / FAST NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU July 5 Blue Care rethinks Sandgate NAIDOC Church Service Jagera Arts Hall, 121 Cordelia St, South Brisbane for the environment fl ourishes FLORAL ARTIST Robert The annual NAIDOC BLUE CARE launched its own staff to act wisely as community Spiritual Gathering Church Manton (below) helped Sustainability Principles on 5 June, and global citizens. Service is a time to rejoice Sandgate Uniting Church guiding how the organisation “Sustainability is about and share in the joy of celebrate the 150th birthday will operate to protect the improving the quality of life for Indigenous culture and of the state of Queensland faith. environment and remain viable everyone in a fair and equitable in May. into the future. way for present and future Come celebrate and pray Blue Care director of mission generations,” she said. A program of sacred for the National Abor- Colleen Geyer said the princi- “Th is means using resources and secular music with iginal and Islander Day ples: responsibility, integration, responsibly and effi ciently to poetry by Rev Barbara Bailey complemented Mr Observance Committee innovation and collaboration, minimise the demands placed on week (5-12 July). Manton’s colourful fl oral together with Blue Care’s our planet.” arrangements. For more information organisational values, called on contact Georgia Corowa The afternoon was a true Georgia Corowa. Photo on 3369 6792, email ctipp@ celebration of the state of courtesy of Queensland qct.org.au or visit www. Queensland and its many Churches Together naidoc.org.au. talented people.

July 4, 12 noon. Camps Farthest Out & South Pacifi c Regional Jubilee Celebration, Grace College, Walcott Street, St Lucia, Brisbane. Contact Jan Maxwell on 3848 6833 or [email protected] or Colin H Ray on 3359 4829 or [email protected].

July 6-11, South Pacifi c Regional Golden Jubilee Camp, Grace College, University of Queensland, Brisbane. Contact Jan Maxwell on 3848 6833 or [email protected].

July 16, 7pm-9pm. Australian Christian Meditation Community Qld talk on Silent Prayer and Contemplative Living, Marymac Community Centre, 616 Ipswich Road, Annerley, Brisbane. Cost $20. Registration and payment Blue Care Sustainability Task Group celebrate the launch of the required by Friday 3 July. Contact Gabby Nelson on 3711 4227. Sustainability Principles - Adrian English, Colleen Geyer, Mark Stephens, Janet Pond, and Amy Smith. Photo by Blue Care July 18, 9am-2pm. Chermside Kedron Village Fair, Chermside-Kedron Community Uniting Church, cnr Gympie and Rode Rds. Contact Kendall Yates on 3359 0975 or Davis, Jack Frewen-Lord, John [email protected]. 50 year ordination Gillanders, John Mavor, Ron Pot- July 19, 9am-11am. Trinity Ipswich White Sunday A SERVICE of thanksgiving ter, Trevor Quant, Ed Smith, and Anniversary, Trinity Ipswich Congregation. All welcome. For was held at Chermside-Kedron Nevin Stoddart attended. more information contact Viliami Mila on 3812 3110 or vil- Uniting Church on 22 June for Ian Russell, George Grimmett, [email protected]. 19 ministers who celebrate their Evan Jones, and Don Kassel were Golden Jubilee of ordination this unable to attend. July 19, 2pm-4pm. Pet Dedication Service, Th orneside year. Marcel Spengler, Roy Nugent, Uniting Church, John Street. All creatures great and small. Rev Gregor Henderson con- Ernie Jensen, Vic Elledge, and Photo courtesy of Bring your pets for a special blessing. Contact Rev Bruce War- gratulated Syd Abrahams, Bill Ossie Dale have passed away. Jean Kirkegaard ren on 3207 2756 or [email protected]. Adams, Barry Dangerfi eld, Noel

July 27, 10am-12:30am. Moreton Rivers Presbytery Adult Fellowship, Sandgate Uniting Church, 116 Board Street, Deagon. RSVP numbers for catering by 22 July to Lorna Holt on 3865 8896 or [email protected].

Aug 1, 9am-11am. Trinity Ipswich Anniversary Service, Trinity Ipswich Congregation. For more information contact Viliami Mila on 3812 3110 or [email protected].

Aug 5, 10am-3pm. Australian Christian Meditation Com- munity Day of Silent Prayer and Quiet Refl ection, Brookfi eld Centre, 139 Brookfi eld Road, Kenmore Hills. Cost $15. Contact Gabby Nelson on 371 4227 or [email protected].

Aug 8, 9am-1pm. Northside Community Fair, Northside Uniting Church, Andergrove, Mackay. Contact Zelma Wasson on 4942 1613 or [email protected].

Aug 29, 7am-2pm. Paddle Adventure, Baffl e Creek, located one hour north of Bundaberg, between the Discovery Coast and Coral Coast regions of Wide Bay in Southeast Queensland. Closing date for entries is 31 July. Entry fee will apply. Contact John McIntyre on 4154 2863 or [email protected].

Sep 10-12, 9am-3:30am. Laidley Uniting Church Quilt and Craft Expo, Laidley Uniting Church Patrick Street, Laidley. Contact Robyn Muller on 5466 5436 (A/H) or email rob.mul@ bigpond for further information.

Sep 12, 8am-1pm. Elanora Uniting Church Spring Fair and Flower Show, Elanora Uniting Church. Offi cial open- ing 10am by Rev Ian Lord. Contact Mary Flynn on 5598 8733 or fl [email protected].

Upload your ‘What’s On’ entries at www.journeyonline.com.au. Items may be shortened due to space limitations.

Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU REVIEWS 1133

Ethics in the Global Village - Moral Angels & Demons Insights for the Post 9-11 USA Directed by Ron Howard, Running time 138 minutes, Rated M By Jack A. Hill, Polebridge Press, 2008, RRP $39.95 Reviewed by Joanne Styles, a freelance writer based on the Reviewed by Rev Dr Noel Park, a retired minister within the Sunshine Coast. Nambour congregation.

ANGELS & DEMONS is an Th e fi lm is full of twists and SOME YEARS ago the which tease out the issues raised action-packed adventure unexpected turns with a few program Spring and Fall on in that chapter. taking the audience on a gruesome scenes. ABC TV included an episode Prof Hill sets out to take the thrilling chase across Rome However the heart of the devoted to the work of the late statements attributed to the and inside the Vatican City. fi lm explores the relationship Fr Ted Kennedy at the Redfern historical Jesus and set them Based on the novel by between religion and science Catholic Church in Sydney. within a contemporary life Dan Brown, author of the and the battle that often wages Fr Kennedy had made setting. controversial Th e Da Vinci between a person’s head and the presbytery available to He uses many of his own Code, Angels & Demons is what their heart is telling Indigenous men and woman experiences, such as his years somewhat less controversial them. from the area and referred to in South Africa and in Jamaica, my thinking in that regard. and more Hollywood Th is fi lm might not be to himself as a “guest” in the old as well as in post 9-11 USA to Prof Hill’s search for entertainment. everyone’s liking but in the house. create images of real life in the reconnection in our modern Harvard symbologist very least it will make you want One of Fr Kennedy’s postmodern age. Th is process society may be something of Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) to pack your bags and head to statements was that if we wish raises many important issues a modern version of Buber’s is recruited by Italian police Rome, pronto. to know Christ we must go to about the “Christian” response to “I-Th ou” but it would facilitate to help fi nd four captured the place where the poor are. poverty, racial discrimination and some extremely valuable catholic leaders who are in line A very similar theme disadvantage in contemporary discussion in local study to become the next pope. underlies the writing of society. groups or workshops. Langdon fi nds proof that the Professor Jack Hill. He has Whether or not this book Ethics in the Global Village legendary secret society, the produced a book which achieves the cover claim of is a book worthy of a place on Illuminati, is still operating and could well be used in “Joining the dots between what bookshelves of all Christians could be the group responsible discussion groups as well Jesus said long ago and what we who take a serious interest for the captured leaders. as for informative reading. experience today –” is up to each in the ethics of community, From here the fi lm turns into Each chapter concludes with reader to decide. social status or international an epic race against the clock questions and ‘talking points’ It certainly made me stretch relations. as Langdon, accompanied by an attractive Swiss scientist (Ayelet Zurer), decipher ancient symbols that lead them Does God live in the suburbs? to where the next catholic leader will be murdered. What ordinary people believe By Myer Bloom, Indra Publishing, 2007, RRP $34.95 Reviewed by Rev Linda Hanson, minister with the Cooroy Pomona Uniting Church. Joy in Disguise: WHEN I read the title of this adherent of that faith group. Th e Meeting Jesus in the Dark Times book I was expecting a book interviewee was usually a lay By Edward S. Little, Morehouse Publishing, 2009, RRP $39.95 on whether Christianity was person and they were asked to Reviewed by Rev Anneli Sinkko, a retired Uniting Church alive and well in the suburbs speak for themselves and not for minister. and how it is viewed in today’s the organisation they are a part of, society. thus the observations mentioned JOY IN Disguise came to Joy in Disguise is garnished Instead, as the title suggests, may diff er from offi cial views. me as a ‘lucky dip’ which I with personal memories from the book is about what Margaret Watson from randomly selected from the the author’s extensive pastoral ordinary people of all walks of Victoria was interviewed for the UC Information list. ministry and it must be said life believe. chapter on our denomination, I actually wanted to review that anybody who is serious Th e 23 chapters each deal thus her description of structures Otherwise the information a book on theology because I about their preaching the Word with a diff erent religion (eg was diff erent to Queensland given was a fair refl ection of am not too fond of devotional should take note: all the stories Buddhism) or denomination Synod structures. life in the Uniting Church. books. narrated give light to the point in the Christian church. Even though the book was Does God live in the suburbs? Little did I know that this the author wants to make. Chapters are in alphabetical published in 2007, the information was easy to read. book was more than theology, Reading this book is order of faith grouping. gathered was quite old referring Readers will fi nd this an more than devotion, more than a thoroughly enjoyable As a Uniting Church to Parish Councils and the easy to comprehend survey meditation – it is all of these experience and I would member I naturally read that Synod of Victoria (not including of the diff erent religions and – and more. recommend it – joyfully. chapter fi rst, even though it Tasmania). denominations in Australia. How could I describe this was the last chapter in the I mention this as if this Th e book achieves what treasure in disguise! book. information is out of date; the it sets out to do – provide For me it is a meditative Each chapter is based on an same might be said for the other an overview of the beliefs of study for serious everyday interview with one practising chapters. ordinary people in Australia. scholars on Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi. I was surprised by the joy it gave me. More reviews online at www.journeyonline.com.au including: Th e text of Paul’s letter is given scholarly interpretation Eco-Theology Making a Pilgrimage The Four Steps of Love mingled with love and the By Celia Deane-Drummond, By Sally Welch, Lion Hudson, 2009 By Fiona Gardner, Darton, author leads the reader through Darton, Longman and Todd Ltd, RRP $12.95 Longman and Todd, 2008 tricky Greek words without 2008, RRP $59.95 RRP $37.95 belittling the inadequacies of the reader.

Books reviewed available from … Many of the titles reviewed in Journey are available from C.M.S Bookstore, St Paul’s Bookstore, or Christian Supplies in Brisbane city. Books can usually be ordered from Vision Books at Broadwater Road Uniting Church, Mansfi eld, or may be available from www.mosaicresources.com.au

Journey - July 2009 1144 PRAYER DIARY / FAST NEWS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU Trinity seeks world vision Connecting with the heart

TRINITY WILSTON Uniting children’s concert in association By Priscilla Raepom Church members have been busy with the congregation. While during May creating awareness the band entertained the SOUTHPORT UNITING on of issues regarding poverty children with their Fairy Tales the Gold Coast is wrestling and the environment. and Fantasy theme (complete with how it can connect At one event the congregation with face painter), congregation with the diverse groups hosted World Vision Director members took the opportunity of people including CBD Tim Costello who spoke about to raise awareness of UN workers, overseas students, the changing values of diff erent Millennium Development Goals retirees, families and singles generations, the impact of global 4 and 5 (Maternal Health and in its community. warming on poverty and the Childhood Mortality). The church located in the plight of those living in poverty. Coles Newmarket pitched CBD of a rapidly growing Minister Rev Sue Pickering in to provide food for a sausage city has a mission statement said people donated around $700 sizzle with all proceeds and that is: ‘connecting for the Kochore Safe Motherhood donated to the Kochore Safe with the heart’. and Women’s Health Project Motherhood and Women’s Health Minister Rev Sue Page in Jima, Ethiopia. Centre in Ethiopia. said isolation was a big “As an AusAID supported World Vision also donated a issue in the area. project these funds will be Fairtrade Football as the prize for “People often move to the matched three times by the a colouring competition judged by Gold Coast to start a new AusAID scheme,” she said. local member Stirling Hinchliff e. life, but they move away “It was great to see so many Ms Pickering said the band from their support network people in the church. Th ere were and the Church have agreed to of family and friends. Playgroup enables mothers to network and children to enjoy people from the local community make the Children’s Concert “The Church is in a activities with others. Photo by Priscilla Raepom as well as other churches who an annual event. position to extend a hand have an interest in the work of Trinity Wilston is also await- of friendship and offer World Vision and the plight of ing offi cial certifi cation to be a hospitality with the love and friendship and have babies every day with people who are people living in extreme poverty.” registered Fair Trade Faith Com- compassion of Christ.” or toddlers who need to have homeless and marginalised. On 30 May the Brisbane munity. Th ey would be only the The Church has set up some activity or connection “With the fi nancial crisis there Symphonic Band put on a second in Queensland. new connect groups, opened with other children.” will be more and more people its doors to the public and Ms Page said Open Church in need and during winter is looking at refurbishing provided a venue for people the homeless population in its foyer to allow for a more who needed to be in a church Queensland increases because spacious reception area. to refl ect; for those who were people down south move north “The 4Cs (Craft, Cuppa, lonely or in crisis and needed because it’s warmer here. Conversation Corner) someone to talk to; or for “The question is how do we is an activity targeted those who needed emergency build on the connections we are at connecting with relief hampers. making with people; how do older people. “This is certainly an area, we link this to the life of faith … “Playgroup is connecting which we would like to develop it is a big challenge to think with mothers looking for a lot more … we have contact about,” she said.

Vale Clare Preston Melbourne aged 94. She was the for Clare’s life will be held on 18 widow of Rev Arthur Preston AO, July, 2.30-4pm at the West End Trinity Wilston members Yvonne Liekefett and Barbara Irvine with A CONGREGATION of 300 Superintendent of the West End Uniting Church. For catering World Vision worker Steph. celebrated the life of Clare Methodist Mission (1948–63) purposes and further information Photo by Sue Pickering Preston in April at the Mt and a founder of the Blue Nursing contact Estelle Godfrey on Pleasant Uniting Church. Service. 3844 5422 or Shirley Foote Sunday 5 July: Our full time minister Ms Preston died in A gathering to give thanks on 3349 7524. Rev Leo Newell, is honorary Atherton chaplain to the school and takes the upper year levels for As a church in the centre of • To ask God to help us FAITH IN Christ, Bearers of Religious Education. We also Sunday 19 July: a growing city we are trying to to discern how to make best Hope, Called to Love is the run a Kids Hope Australia St. Stephen’s explore how we can take advantage use of our property, position motto of the Atherton Uniting program in the school, of our location and build bridges and personnel Church. Our worship centre mentoring at-risk children. Toowoomba with the community. • To give thanks to and ministry base sits in the Our broader missional We are a mostly traditional God for nearly 150 years of heart of the beautiful Atherton initiatives include running ST. STEPHEN’S Toowoomba congregation but have faithful worship, witness and Tablelands. Th e congregation Focus on the Family’s ‘How to is a church in the heart incorporated some more service, including the however is drawn from within Drug Proof Your Kids’ courses of the city. contemporary elements in beginnings of Lifeline a 25km radius of Atherton and and ‘Journeys’. We have an average our worship. and Meals on Wheels on members come from several Our congregation is also attendance of over 100, but As with all older congregations the Darling Downs other local communities the driving force behind there are probably well over there are signifi cant pastoral • For the congregation including Malanda, Atherton Tablelands Carols by 1000 people in Toowoomba issues related to ageing, and leadership as they seek to Yungaburra, Herberton and Candlelight, an event growing and the district who illness and grief. deal with the issues of loss and Walkamin so we are really a in popularity each year, would regard St. Stephen’s Please pray: grief that confront all older regional church. attracting over 1500 patrons in as their church. • For the congregation as it congregations and Th e congregation is made 2008. Th e congregation is mostly seeks to broaden its outreach • For our young families up of a majority of retirees Our latest initiative is a youth older but there are a few • For our Elders and Andrew asking that the faith of and we have only a few focused Friday night worship young families who are a vital our minister as they seek to widen their children may grow to strongly connected families event called ‘Xtreme worship.’ part of its life. the outreach of our Church maturity in Christ. and therefore small numbers Th is is being well supported of children and youth, despite and has already become multi- an intentional missional focus denominational. to this group. While our local On 18 and 19 July we will mission fi eld spans several host singer / songwriter / communities our main focus communicator Aliki, one of has been on the Atherton Australia’s most dynamic community (pop. about 7500) Christian female artists. where we have developed a We value the prayers of strong partnership with the the wider church for these local primary school. initiatives.

Journey - July 2009 JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU LETTERS 1155 Proposed Preamble Taking to the streets Working for In the June Journey, Helen Survival on the streets is the future of Prior shared the attitude not as romantic as Hollywood changing experience she had has portrayed it time and time the Church changes a concern when invited to go on a street again. retreat. Survival is simply being Th e letter from Marjorie I wish to raise my concern over view of Congress … this is the She confessed that she was street-smart with no Butler in last month’s the proposal that will come historical truth as we see it and confronted with issues that measurable future. Journey suggests or implies before the 12th Assembly from which we are now asking non- most never even consider. When I invited Helen to some concern or suspicion Congress (UAICC), seeking to Indigenous members of the Voluntarily sharing join me on this retreat, she about the Lay Forum and make changes to the Preamble UCA to acknowledge through the streets with the quickly saw the potential to progressive Christianity to the constitution of Th e the proposed Preamble”. alienated, marginalised overcome her false pride and generally. Uniting Church in Australia. God may have been speak- and disenfranchised while then actively recruited several We in the Lay Forum My concern is twofold. ing to Indigenous Australians abandoning the common rights more retreat mates. would like to take this 1) Process: Th ere is no for many millennia, but this to hygiene, adequate food plus When the time is right, we opportunity to assure detailed statement and ex- knowledge or revelation is comfortable and safe sleeping will take to the streets. Marjorie that we are not planation of the history giving only a ‘partial’ revelation and it arrangements is defi nitely not trying to convert anyone in rise to the proposed change. is only in Jesus Christ that we everyone’s cup of tea. Eido McIntyre the Uniting Church to any Th e statement contains no can come to a fuller revelation Email other set of beliefs or start discussion or explanation of of who God is. a new church or a power the benefi ts and disadvantages Th e Preamble must point group within our church. of making such a change or the to this reality as Christ alone We sincerely affi rm impact of making or not making is at the centre of the Church’s Marjorie and others who such an important amendment identity, not our own particular More to learn At least Newton would have remember their Sunday to the constitution. experience of God. agreed with that. school days with such More time is required to Th e Basis of Union does I can almost identify with all Th e vision of the world of respect and aff ection. discuss this vital matter across this well as it is the theological our moderator is saying in his science sees way beyond the Th ose of us who use the whole Church. Preamble to the Constitution. article ‘Learning Faith’ (June vision of the creationist and the term ‘progressive’ have 2) Th eology: Perhaps It is why Congress and the Journey) but there are some fundamentalist. respect for our Christian more importantly, this is the wider Church can therefore insights that might bring us Th erefore the expression traditions. theological issue. say that we seek “to unite in closer to an understanding of ‘with all your mind’ is also a However, we believe that It is stated in the report to one fellowship all Aboriginal the enormous task facing us. little ambiguous as the scientifi c we need to recognise that the Assembly by Congress that and Islander Christians who According to my theological mind and the fundamentalist our church denomination the signifi cance of the proposed have accepted Jesus Christ as knowledge … the word ‘faith’ mind are often in opposite is in long-term decline due Preamble is “the realisation Lord, accept the authority of can also be translated as ‘trust’. transits and poles apart. to its failure to come to that God might have been the Scriptures and desire to Faith therefore, as a word, is Is an ‘informed’ faith grips with the huge social speaking directly to Indigenous follow and serve Christ as his a little ambiguous. preached in our churches? and educational changes of Australians for many millennia, disciples” (Congress website). Over the years I have also I would say no and this recent generations. well before the days of Noah Rev Dr Hedley learned that the ‘mind’ is is the reason why there is so We must relate the story or Abraham, was hardly a Fihaki fragile. much opposition to Spong and of Jesus in a way that will consideration. But this is the Cairns Emmanuel Look for instance at what McNab. communicate with those we Hitler and his masters of Th e church must come meet in our daily lives. propaganda did to the German down to earth in regard to this As a church we must nation. question. engage in a free, open and Education is social justice How long has it taken the Th e truth and nothing honest discussion about major churches to accept the but the truth, scientifi c and our beliefs, employ a I appreciated the June When the Uniting Church facts of evolution and that the spiritual, will do. tolerance that accepts and Journey with its emphasis on came into being it did so earth does not stand still and Reconciliation at all levels encourages a wide diversity education. with a strong concern for never did. must take place and can take of theological opinion and It was good to hear of the the whole of society with the Science and religion have to place if we are prepared to practices which will make role of our church schools recognition that Australia be reconciled. open our minds to all truths. sense and attract the missing and the attention and care has a responsibility to give all Who dares to state that Love and truth are the younger generations. they receive to do their very our children full educational only spiritual truths come weapons we need. Th e Lay Forum is important work. opportunities. from God? simply trying to create a However, I wish to point out I hope that we shall Surely scientifi c knowledge Len Notenboom space for these progressive that education is for us also a never forget that part of our also emanates from God. Elanora thoughts and approaches matter of social justice. educational task. in the Uniting Church, We should be concerned It was William Temple who which currently has little not only for the welfare of our said that “the church is the only time and space for this own but also for the needs society on earth that exists for important activity in favour also of the whole Australian the benefi t of those who are Gen Y respond to Easter msg of defending what may have community. not its members”. been helpful in yesterday’s Education means justice. I am proud of the Year 8 religion students walking down the street and church. Th e three churches that contribution our church from South Burnett Catholic then these bunch of Gang- We are a group of made up the Uniting Church schools make today but we College were excited to read Bashers walk up and bashed Christian men and women in 1977 all brought with them must never ignore those the ‘Easter for Gen Y’ edition him then they put him in the concerned to recognise the a tradition of support for the multitudes of young Australians of Journey, complete with a van. need for a better long term public education system that who deserve a fair go. faux Facebook page for Jesus. Eileen: Does Mary know future for our church. has been a major contributor Here is a contribution from were he was kidnapped, and by to the egalitarianism of this Bill Adams students Eileen Cobbo and who? Graeme Adsett country. Jindalee Paige Davis. Paige: No, she has no idea Retired UCA Many thanks to their she was really upset though =( Minister teacher Bronwyn Langford for Eileen: We should go to the Karalee sending it in. scene of the crime and be like CLASSIFIEDS Accommodation NCIS people =) Paige: OMG did you Paige: OMG that would so For Sale Holiday unit, modern, pool. 100m hear that Jesus has been fun we should totally do that Send your letters to from Kings Beach Caloundra from kidnapped. =) Kawana Wts - 2 x slatted pews [email protected] $360/wk. Ph Ray 0427990161. Eileen: OMG really =( Eileen: Get all your gear and 2.7m - fair cond. 1 x polished or Journey GPO Box 674, timber communion table 90x1.5m London B & B. Easy city access; Paige: Yer, Mary called me be at the Yellow Duck at 7 pm (suit dining table) - make an offer. lge double room, ensuite, self- last night to tell me the news, Paige: Ohk, I’ll see you Brisbane QLD 4001. 7 x unopened ctns 40 Days of catering. Reas rates. rachel@ she was really upset =( there Purpose resources - $60 ea. Call brockleybandb.fsnet.co.uk Rosemary 5493 8739 Mon to Fri Ph/Fax: 001144.2086946538. Eileen: Hey, do you know Bye xxoo mwah Letters may be 9am to 12 noon. about it? Eileen: Ohk, bring your edited due to space Paige: Only what Mary walkie talkie Email your classifi ed advertisements to [email protected] told me, she said that he was Bye, love you xxoo mwah limitations.

Journey - July 2009 1166 JOURNEY ASKS JOURNEYONLINE.COM.AU What impact did the Fitzgerald Inquiry have on your life and work?

Noel Preston

MY PERSONAL experience of what I call We were confronted by unjust policies, of human nature, the reforms would be the Fitzgerald phenomenon goes back to corruption and the abuse of power. constantly threatened. the 1970s. To stay silent seemed an abandonment Th e struggle is never over. I had been studying social ethics at of the church’s mission in the world. By 1989 my vocation had evolved back Boston University School of Th eology Our core motivation was to provide an into a university role. which confi rmed in me a vocation to a alternative witness to Christ in the world, Th e post-Fitzgerald context provided a specialised ministry in social justice and especially as the government of the day and good opportunity to teach, research and ethical issues. many of its supporters claimed that they publicly propose ethics programs. Th e Methodist Church appointed me were defending the Christian cause against In a sense what was a watershed in Associate Minister at the city church (now social evil. Queensland’s history gave me personally Wesley Mission) and Convenor of the Our heroes were Dietrich Bonhoeff er the impetus to translate Christian social statewide Christian Citizenship committee, and Martin Luther King, and our credo ethics into forums outside the church. mandating a prophetic role in the context Liberation theology. Noel Preston has written more of what was a volatile political and moral Th e Fitzgerald Inquiry opened the way extensively of this story in his book era in Queensland, fuelled by the Bjelke- for a new start for Queensland democracy Beyond the Boundary: a memoir Petersen government’s style. and social policy. exploring ethics, politics and As events played out, personally and At the time I thought a lot about what spirituality with a Foreword by Tony for the infant Uniting Church, some of us this meant in terms of personal and social Fitzgerald. This may be obtained by experienced the confl ict between church repentance and redemption. contacting Dr Preston on N.Preston@ and state and the personal anguish of public As Fitzgerald predicted, and as we griffi th.edu.au or Zeus Publications. criticism, even from Christian colleagues. know from our Christian understanding OLICE LINE DO NOT CROSS POLICE LINE DO NOT CROSS POLIC

John Woodley John Harrison

EARLY IN 1985 South East Queensland car and throw packets of sandwiches out of REPENT. JUST one word on the cover of Moderator Barry Dangerfi eld was at suff ered weeks of power blackouts due to the window. Journey in March 1989 as the revelations Aurukun, so Synod Secretary Duncan a dispute between electricity workers and Th e Concerned Christians were about police and political corruption in Harrison made the statement to media. the state government over safety and other acquitted and a valuable lesson in Christian Queensland reached a crescendo. A few minutes after it hit Ten News, a issues in the power industry. social justice was reinforced: the call to As the then editor of Journey, I had to furious Acting Premier Bill Gunn was on Th e government sacked 1000 of the stand with and for those oppressed by see we reported the issues with theological the phone giving Mr Harrison a blast. workers, including an active member of powerful forces, even governments. integrity, rather than political partisanship, Th reatening to walk away from his the Uniting Church, and cancelled their Four years later the Report of the while avoiding the legal minefi elds of sub lifetime membership of the Uniting superannuation and other entitlements. Fitzgerald Inquiry was published and the judice and contempt. Church, Mr Gunn complained the church A decision was made by Concerned government defeated in the subsequent But the bigger thrills and spills came from had delivered him into the hands of the Christians, an ecumenical group of clergy election. being media minder for the Moderator and enemies of the government. and lay people, to join the workers at Synod Secretary. Ten days later, while Joh was visiting pickets outside SEQEB depots. Church leaders were determinedly Disneyland, Mr Gunn appointed Fitzgerald. At the New Farm SEQEB depot one behind Fitzgerald. After all, we’d pressured And the rest is history. morning 100 picketers were arrested, the Government to set it up. In 1986, including members of Concerned “Minister for Everything” Russ Hinze, a Christians. long-time member of Pimpama church, Th e large cross they had been standing was asked at a media conference about under was confi scated by police. the brothels in the Valley. Russ replied: In Court the main prosecution case “Brothels? What brothels?” was that the Concerned Christians were Th e comment was received by the associating with striking workers who had assembled hacks with raucous laughter. broken the law. When this was broadcast on the TV Concerned Christians defence lawyer news that night, I drafted a media release Myles McGregor Lowndes engaged Tony suggesting the government was taking a Fitzgerald as Barrister. “frivolous” approach to a serious social In their defence Tony Fitzgerald used problem. a number of historic precedents to point After a decade of copping a beating to the absurdity of denying Christians the from Joh on social justice issues, we were right to stand with the vulnerable and Rev John Woodley is a Uniting on the moral high ground; none of this left- outcast. Church minister who served as a wing stuff about peace, land rights or civil He asked what such a denial might Senator for the Australian liberties. John Harrison is an author and mean to Mother Teresa in India, who to Democrats from 1993 to 2001 and “Social purity” had been on the Brisbane lectures in strategic communications avoid being associated with the poor and has a passion for social justice. Methodist Conference and Presbyterian suff ering would need to drive around in a Assemblies agenda since the 1880s. at the University of Queensland.

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Journey - July 2009