The Uniting Church in Australia Synod of New

THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA

MINUTES of the thirty sixth Meeting of the Synod of New South Wales and the ACT of the Uniting Church in Australia held 16 - 19 April 2016 at Knox Grammar School. The theme of the Synod was Come Holy Spirit Renew Our Hearts.

CANDLE The Moderator lit the candle at the commencement of the Synod Meeting to signify the Synod was a Safe Place.

ACKNOWLEGEMENT OF LAND Aboriginal Elders participated in the acknowledgement of land. A smoking ceremony was held on Sunday 16 April, 2016.

BIBLE STUDY Bible Studies were prepared and led by Hope Uniting Church. Day 1: Psalm 51 and Romans 8 Day 2: Luke 24 Day 3: John 20 Day 4: Galatians 5

WORSHIP Worship and Bible Study were developed by the team at Hope Uniting Church and facilitated by Rev. Rebecca Lindsay and Rev. Andrew Johnson. The Opening Worship invoked the presence of the Holy Spirit. It included a celebration of Holy Communion jointly led by the Moderator and the Chair of UAICC.

Closing reflection and prayer was led by Lena Logan, Rev. Gary Dronfield and Rev. Neville Naden.

The Synod Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit, Renew our hearts renew our faith; renew our love for you; renew our openness and compassion; renew our sense of justice . Come, Holy Spirit, Renew your Church renew our love for the Gospel; renew the liveliness of our worship; renew our commitment for the care for the poor; renew the church in its understanding of its calling. Come, Holy Spirit, Renew the Earth teach us to protect our environment teach us to care for other people as our own brothers and sisters; teach us to imagine all living things as we are connected to each other; So may the peoples and all living things live in harmony with the earth.

DECISIONS Decisions recorded in these Minutes were reached by consensus unless otherwise indicated.

MEMBERS OF SYNOD

25/16S Resolved That the Synod determine (a) that the membership of Synod shall comprise ex officio and board members, together with those persons nominated by presbyteries or co-opted, being listed as Appendix A (b) that any alterations to the list of members be advised in writing to the Synod General Secretary by the Presbytery Chairperson no later than the close of Synod on Tuesday 19 April 2016

AGENDA, TIMETABLE AND SHAPING OF THE SYNOD 2016 AGENDA

26/16S Resolved That the Synod adopt the timetable of Synod as printed and amended, subject to review by the Business Committee SAFE PLACE

27/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) determine the “Respectful Communication Guidelines” as detailed on the Synod APP be the basis for the Synod to be a safe place for all who participate (ii) note the Policy on the Prevention of Vilification and Harassment within the Uniting Church in Australia as detailed on the Synod APP SYNOD BUSINESS COMMITTEE

28/16S Resolved That the Synod on the recommendation of the Synod Standing Committee, appoint the following persons to the Business Committee for Synod 2016  Rev. Dr Chris Budden (chair)  Rev. Dr Andrew Williams  Rev. Myung Hwa Park  Mr Peter Andrews  Mr Ian Lawrence  Rev. Suzanne Stanton  Rev. Garry Derkenne  Rev. Karyn Burchell Thomas  Mrs Joanne Drayton 13

 Mrs Karyn Warner ASSOCIATED MEMBERS

29/16S Resolved That the Synod associate the following people Session Mrs Karyn Warner All Rev. John Barr 1 - 4 Rev. Father Shenouda Mansour 1 - 4 Rev. Dr Min Heui Cheon All Mrs Heather Watson All Father Stephan Bevans 1 - 8 Pastor Ray Minniecon 5 - 8 Mr Doug Taylor 5 Ms Karen Mitchell Lambert 5 Ms Faith Astle 5 Mr Peter Roach 5 Ms Rhonda Ianna 5 Ms Rebecca Haynes 5 Ms Claerwen Little 5 Dr Marianne Jauncey 7 Mr Jon O’Brien 7 Mrs Marion McConnell 7 Mr Bill Bush 7 Mr Andrew Rixon 11 - 15 Mr Jim Mein 16 Mrs Lynda Ben- Menashe 16

RETURNING OFFICER

30/16S Resolved That the Synod note that the Synod Standing Committee has appointed Mr Ian Lawrence as Returning Officer

SYNOD MINUTES

31/16S Resolved That the Synod request the Synod Standing Committee approve the Minutes of the 2016 Synod Meeting

MINISTERIAL REPORTS The General Secretary tabled the names of Deacons, Ministers of the Word and Youth Workers who have resigned, transferred to another Synod, or had their recognition as Ministers withdrawn, and the names and details of service of Deacons, Ministers and Youth Workers and their spouse/widow and lay leaders who have died since the 2014 Synod

32/16S Resolved That the Synod receive the names tabled and attach them as Appendix C and D to the Minutes MINISTERIAL MATTERS – RECOGNITION SERVICE The General Secretary tabled the names of Deacons, Ministers of the Word, Youth Workers and Lay Pastors who have been received by the Uniting Church within the Synod of New South Wales and the ACT by ordination, commissioning, reception from another denomination or by transfer from another Synod since the 2014 Synod; of Deacons, Ministers of the Word and Lay Pastors who have retired since the 2014 Synod; and Ministers of the Word and Deacons who have celebrated major anniversaries of their ordination since the 2014 Synod. Appropriate details are in the Order of Service of the Recognition Booklet Appendix B

ADOPTION OF REPORTS

33/16S Resolved That the Synod note the recommendation of the Synod Business Committee that the following reports be adopted en bloc

Proposal No Title of Proposal

21 Presbytery Reports

REPORTS

34/16S Resolved That the Synod receive reports either oral or written from UAICC Uniting Resources Board Uniting Board Uniting Mission and Education Board Uniting Financial Services Board Assembly

MODERATOR’S PASTORAL STATEMENTS

35/16S Resolved That the Synod receive the statements (i) Rev. Dr Ann Wansbrough Appendix E (ii) Rev. Dr Clive Pearson Appendix F

SCRUTINEERS

36/16S Resolved That the Synod appoint the following persons as Scrutineers and the Returning Officer Mr Ian Lawrence

RED TEAM (A) BLUE TEAM (B) Mr John K Martin (Leader) Rev. Annette Hawkin (Leader) Pastor David Shrimpton Rev. Krikor Youmshajekian Rev. Warrick Cadenhead Rev. Bridget Ocean Rev. Ray McIlwraith Mr Louis Smalbil Mr Paul Creek Mr Semisi Vaea Rev. Viniana Ravetali Rev. Ben Gilmour Mrs Sue Graves Mr Bala BalaretnaRaja Ms Queenie Speeding Mr Bruce Pyke Mr Manu Naufahu Rev. Jean Bell Mr James Aaron Mr John Cutts Ms Lilian Pene Mr Phil Tucker Ms Margaret Gregory Rev. Oto Faiva Mr John Teong Ms Lottie Bamblett Mr Curtis Dickson Mrs Jackie Watts Ms Tessa Bradbury Ms Valarie White Rev. Charissa Suli Mrs Meredith Yabsley Mr Ross Johnson Ms Susan Conde Rev. Mathew Wilson Pastor David Freeman Mr Ian Forest-Jones

DISCERNMENT GROUP LEADERS

37/16S Resolved That the Synod appoint the following persons as Discernment Group Leaders  Rev. Jerry Duncan  Rev. Patty Lawrence  Rev. Ian Pearson  Rev. Gareth Thomas Burchell  Rev. Steve Aynsley  Rev. Laurel Barr  Rev. Geoff Wellington  Mr Graeme Tolson  Mr Richard La’Brooy  Mr Neil Menger  Rev. Steve Coster  Rev. Geoffrey Stevenson  Mrs Susan Conde  Rev. Shin Goo Lee

CONGREGATIONS

38/16S Resolved That the Synod note (i) The Hunter Presbytery advised that the congregations of Karuah, Medowie, Raymond Terrace, Tea Gardens and Tilligerry were amalgamated to become the Grahamstown Multi-Centre congregation (with worship centres at Karuah, Medowie, Raymond Terrace, Tea Gardens and Tiligerry) effective from 1 January 2016 (ii) The Georges River Presbytery advised that linked congregations of Padstow and Panania were amalgamated to become the Grace Christian Church effective from 10 October 2015 (iii) The Assembly noted on November 14 2014 that the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania has resolved the request of the Presbytery of North-East Victoria and of the Presbytery of Riverina that the Presbytery boundaries be changed to enable the transfer of the Howlong Congregation from the Presbytery of Riverina to the Presbytery of North-East Victoria (iv) The Presbytery of Sydney North and Ku-ring-gai unanimously on 2 Feb 2016 agreed to the request that Gladesville Boronia Park UC change its name to Boronia Park UC. (v) A request for the Armenian Evangelical Church of Sydney to become the UCA Armenian Evangelical Church of Sydney effective from 15 March 2016 (vi) The Hunter Presbytery advised that the East Maitland and Morpeth Congregations become a multi-centre congregation with two worship centres and that Blackhill congregation become a linked congregation with the multi-centre congregations effective from 1January 2016 (vii) The Parramatta Nepean Presbytery advised the closure of the North West Congregations effective from 1 September 2012 17

SYNOD 2017 MEETING DATE

39/16S Resolved That the Synod request that the Synod Standing Committee determine the date and venue for the next Synod meeting in 2017

GENERAL SECRETARY & SYNOD STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT

40/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report (ii) receive the Property for a Pilgrim People – Draft Proceeds of Sale Policy from the Synod Standing Committee (by agreement) (iii) approve the Proceeds of Sale Policy and authorise the Synod Standing Committee to amend the policy to allow for the inclusion of the Assembly in a manner that would give expression to our commitment to being the whole church with common wealth refer Appendix G (by agreement) (iv) adopt the Uniting Church of Australia, Synod of NSW & ACT Interim Redress Policy as recommended by The Synod Standing Committee refer Appendix H

RURAL MINISTRY UNIT

41/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report (ii) affirms the necessity to support ministry and mission in rural and remote areas (iii) endorses the Saltbush Project as one mechanism of providing such support; noting that attention will also need to be directed to circumstances in other rural Presbyteries (iv) request the Synod Standing Committee to implement the Saltbush Project as quickly as possible a) with particular emphasis being directed to the Project driver, Discipling/Resource ministry roles and the remote ministry roles b) subject to regular oversight by SSC built upon agreed activity and impact parameters c) conditional upon the participating Presbyteries committing to be in dialogue with regard to long terms structures and governance; and 18

d) subject to a comprehensive review of the Synod’s ongoing approach to both rural and remote ministry to be tabled at Synod 2019 (vi) encourage the participating Presbyteries to continue and where possible to expand ecumenical discussions (vii) encourages all councils and entities of the Synod to faithfully consider how they might support this endeavour through prayer, financial support and other means

SOCIAL JUSTICE FORUM

42/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report (ii) affirms the work of the Social Justice Forum and wider church in implementing the Give Hope: Uniting for Asylum Seekers campaign over the last 18 months, and supports the continuing and active engagement of the church across the Synod in the campaign (iii) recognises the importance of secure and affordable housing for all people, affirms the need for advocacy on this issue, endorses the work of the Uniting Affordable Housing campaign and encourages congregations and the whole church to take an active part in the campaign as opportunities to do so arise (iv) actively supports and advocates for greater investment in demand reduction and harm reduction strategies to address illicit drug use (v) actively supports and advocates for the expansion of decriminalisation for possession and personal use of small amounts of illicit drugs (by formal process)

TOWARDS THE SYDNEY CENTRAL COAST PRESBYTERY

43/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report (ii) that Synod, in accordance with Regulation 3.4.6, resolve to form a new Presbytery effective from 22 June 2016, with all the powers and responsibilities of a Presbytery, and with the following provisions: a) That the name of the new Presbytery be Sydney Central Coast Presbytery. b) That the bounds of Sydney Central Coast Presbytery be the combined bounds of the Sydney North and Ku-ring-gai Presbyteries. c) All congregations and Faith Communities that are part of the Ku-ring-gai and Sydney North Presbyteries shall be

part of and recognised by the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery (Reg. 3.4.1.a, 3.9.2.a). d) Prior to the creation of the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery a congregation may request to be part of a neighbouring Presbytery. The bounds of the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery shall reflect the location of any reallocated congregation.

e) That the first meeting of the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery shall take place on 22 June 2016 at the Turramurra Uniting Church. f) That the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery become the Responsible Body of all property for which: i. Ku-ring-gai Presbytery is the Responsible Body ii. Sydney North Presbytery is the Responsible Body. g) That in accordance with regulation 3.4.7, Synod resolves to dissolve the Ku-ring-gai Presbytery and the Sydney North Presbytery on a date suitable to the finalisation of all governance duties.

ELECTION OF MODERATOR

44/16S Resolved That the Synod elect the Rev. Simon Hansford to the office of Moderator for the period from the Synod of 2017 to the Synod of 2020

THE CALL TO PRIVATISE PRISONS

45/16SC Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report (ii) refer this matter to the Social Justice Forum for further development with a request that a report and proposals be brought to the Synod Standing Committee

OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY

46/16SC Resolved That the Synod (i) refer proposals arising from the Open Space Technology sessions to the Synod Standing Committee (ii) request that the Synod 2016 members be kept apprised of progress (iii) thank Mr Andrew Rixon for facilitating the sessions

SOUTH AUSTRALIA SYNOD MISSION NETWORKS STUDY & RECOMMENDATIONS (Proposal 25) 47/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive this proposal (ii) refer to the Synod Standing Committee

SUSPENSION OF BY- LAW

48/16S Resolved That the Synod (i) receive the report of the Returning Officer (ii) suspend By-law 2.3.4(e) for the purpose of this Standing Committee election.

49/16SC Resolved That the Synod appoint the following

1. SYNOD STANDING COMMITTEE

(a) EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Moderator Rev. Myung Hwa Park Ex Moderator Rev. Dr Brian Brown Synod General Secretary Rev. Dr Andrew Williams Uniting (Chair) Rev. Gordon Ramsay Uniting Mission and Education (Chair) Rev. Dr John Squires Uniting Resources (Chair) Vacant Treasury and Investment Services (Chair) Mr Michael Anderson

ASSOCIATED MEMBERS

Uniting Resources Mr John Kitchener (Executive Director) Uniting Mission and Education Rev. Kath Merrifield (Executive Director) Treasury and Investment Services Mr Warren Bird (Executive Director) Uniting Mr Peter Worland (Executive Director) Synod Risk Oversight Committee Mr Jonathon Rea (Chair) Governance, Nomination and Remuneration Mr Peter Andrews Committee (Chair)

(b) PRESBYTERY REPRESENTATIVES

Presbytery Member Alternate

Canberra Region Rev. Kevin Dilks Mr Peter Crimmins

Macquarie Darling Mr Kevin Barrington *

Far North Coast Rev. Robert Griffith Rev. James Annesley

Georges River Rev. Grant Bilbey Rev. Salesi Faupula

Illawarra Rev. Glenys Biddle Mr Ross Johnson

Ku-Ring-Gai Rev Tara Curlewis

Mid North Coast Rev. Lindsay Cullen Rev. Janet Dawson

New England North West Mr Graeme Tolson Mr Tom Campanelli

Parramatta-Nepean Mr John K Martin Rev. Paul Cosier

Riverina Mr Paul Ballard

Sydney Rev. Stephen Matthews Rev. Alimoni Taumoepeau

Sydney North Rev. Graham Perry

The Hunter Rev. Stephen de Plater Rev. Warrick Cadenhead

Korean Presbytery Rev. Shin Goo Lee Mr Jung Eun Noh

(c)

Multi-Cultural Ministry Mrs Lilian Pene * Advisory Group UAICC Ms Dianne Torrens Rev. Garry Dronfield

* Synod Standing Committee to confirm appointments

(d) MEMBERS TO BE APPOINTED (15 persons elected)

Mr Craig Corby Mr Ian Lawrence Mr Bruce Lyon Mr Paul Creek Miss Liuanga Palu Miss Katelyn Stevenson Mrs Robyn Harvey Miss Bek Allcroft 22

Mrs Sue Graves Mr Semisi Kailahi Rev. Stephen Robinson Mr David Barrow Mrs Jacki Watts Rev. Karyn Burchell-Thomas Rev. Christine Bayliss Kelly

2. BOARDS

a) Uniting The following people are elected for a 3 year term: Mrs Jane Thornton Mrs Anne Carroll Rev. Gordon Ramsay Mrs Robyn Brown

b) Uniting Mission and Education The following people are elected for a 3 year term: Mr David Scott Mr Robert Minton Rev. Elizabeth Raine

c) Uniting Resources The following people are elected for a 3 year term: Mr Ross Johnson Mr Scott Stanton Mr John Brunton Ms Lynne Thompson Ms Claudia Bels

3. CHAIRPERSONS

Advisory Committee on Ministerial Placements Rev. Chris Udy

………………………………………………. Chairperson

………………………………… Date

APPENDIX A

MEMBERS OF SYNOD 2016

SYNOD AND ASSEMBLY APPOINTMENTS

As at 16-19 April 2016

ASSEMBLY

Mr Stuart McMillan President Ms Colleen Geyer General Secretary

SYNOD

Rev Myung Hwa Park Moderator Rev Dr Brian Brown Ex-Moderator Rev Dr Andrew Williams General Secretary Rev Jane Fry Associate Secretary Mr John Kitchener Property Officer

EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

UNITING RESOURCES TREASURY & INVESTMENT SERVICES

Mr John Kitchener Mr Warren Bird Mr John Brunton Mr Michael Anderson Mr John Collins Mr. Jason Masters

UNITING NSW/ACT UNITING MISSION & EDUCATION

Mr Peter Worland Rev Kath Merrifield Rev Gordon Ramsay Rev Haloti Kailahi Mr Oliver Greeves Rev Elizabeth Raine Mr Raymond McMinn Rev John Squires Mrs Jacki Watts

Mr. Peter Andrews - Governance Nominations Renumeration Committee Mr Jonathon Rea - Synod Risk Oversight Committee

THEOLOGICAL STUDENTS

Mr James Aaron Ms Michelle Shumack Mr Kodjo Nkrumah Ms Cherie Strudwick Mr Fauhiva Lutui Ms Simaima Tuiono 24

CANBERRA REGION PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Kerry Bartlett Rev Riana Kok Rev Steve Coster Rev Chris Lockley Rev Kevin Dilks Rev David Russell Rev Mark Faulkner Rev David Stuart

LAY MINISTERS Lay Pastor Geoffrey Wellington

LAY PERSONS Mr Bala BalaretnaRajah Mr Peter Kidd Ms Tessa Bradbury Mr Willem Kok Mr Peter Crimmins Ms Judy McKinlay Mrs Vanessa Crimmins Mrs Sitela (Stella) Naimet Ms Rosemary Everett Mr Manu Naufahu Mrs Sioana Faupula Ms Jill Robertson Ms Alison Fox Mr Dean Tragenza Mr. Derek Watson

FAR NORTH COAST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev James Annesley Rev. Peter Overton Rev Robert Griffith

LAY PERSONS Mr Peter Boughey

GEORGES RIVER PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Grant Bilbey Rev Viniana Ravetali Rev Nancy Brawn Rev Kamaloni Tuiono Rev Charles (Salesi) Faupula Rev Graeme Watkins

LAY PERSONS Mr Ross Daddo Ms Carolyn More Mr Peter DeBeuzeville Mr Shane Slade Ms Margaret Goodwin Mr Semisi Kaihali

ILLAWARRA PRESBYTERY MINISTERS Rev Glenys Biddle Rev Nigel Hawken Rev Tony Davies Rev Charissa Suli Rev Geoffrey Flynn Rev Matthew Wilson Rev Annette Hawken

LAY PERSONS Mr Nathaniel Hawken Mr Ross Johnson Mr Kit Funaki Mr Langi Suli Mr Fatefehi Funki Mr Gavin Whitten Ms Rosaline Havea

KOREAN PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Sang Heon Ahn Rev Sun Il Jeong Rev Sam Yeol Cho Rev Jin Kap Jeung Rev. Bom Wook Choi Rev Chan Il Kim Rev Deok Hee Cho Rev Shin Goo Lee Rev Hyo-Jin Choi Rev Jung Eun Noh Rev Eun Hye Jeon

LAY PERSONS Mr Duk Min Kim Mr Sung Mi Kim Mr Jung Mi Kim Mr Andrew Lee Ms Stella Kim Mr Kyung Hee Lee

KU-RING-GAI PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Steve Aynsley Rev Patty Lawrence Rev Laurel Barr Rev Hugh Park Rev Tara Curlewis Rev Ian Pearson Rev Melinda Graham Rev Alex Thomas Rev Richard Harris Ms Vanessa Williams-Henke Rev Ann Hogan

LAY PERSONS Mr Tim Anderson Ms Cassie Bethany Mr Ian Lawrence Ms Susan Conde Ms Peta Lilburne Mrs Liz Dabbs Mr Clive McCormack Mr Don Drurie AM Mr Duncan Diarmid Ms Barbara Elton Mr Bruce McLaren Mr Richard Fleming Mr Bruce Pyke Ms Margaret Gregory Mr Robert Pryor Mr Arthur McKee Krust AOM Mrs Jo Tulett 26

Mr Allan West

MACQUARIE DARLING PRESBYTERY

MINISTER Rev Karyn Burchell-Thomas Rev Maurine Redenbach Rev Sharon Cutts Rev Jo-anne Smalbil Rev Oto Faiva Rev Gareth Thomas-Burchell

LAY PASTOR Pastor David Shrimpton

LAY PERSONS Mr Kevin Barrington Ms Lorraine Pearson Ms Shirley Colless Mr Louis Smalbil Ms Sue Graves Mrs Valerie White Mr Brian Mowbray

MID NORTH COAST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Lindsay Cullen Rev Dr Jason John Rev Janet Dawson

LAY MINISTERS Pastor David Freeman

LAY PERSONS Mrs Penny Archer Ms Angela Lownie Ms Lyn Dun Ms Gwen Wilcox Ms Olivia Freeman

NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Jean Bell Rev Phill Matthews Rev Jim Furze Rev Will Pearson Rev Simon Hansford

LAY PERSONS Mr David Bissett Mr Tom Campanelli

Mrs Faye Heywood Mr Phil Tucker Ms Mere Lightfoot Ms Anna Vlasoff Mr Graeme Tolson

PARRAMATTA-NEPEAN PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Christine Bayliss Kelly Rev Geoffrey Stevenson Rev Paul Cosier Rev Carolyn Thornley Rev Garry Derkenne Rev Noreen Towers Rev Hye Kyoung Lee Rev Liva Tukutama Rev Duncan McLeod Rev Christopher Walker Rev Fie Marino Rev Rhonda White Rev Susan Phalen Rev Greg Woolnough Rev Ian Robinson

LAY MINISTERS Mr Bradon French

LAY PERSONS Mr Jeff Aernie Mr Neil Menger Ms Elaine Alinta Assoc Prof Gerald Moore Mr Rees Anthony Dr Ben Myers Ms Alison Bleyerveen Ms Trish Rooney Mrs Hee-Won Chang Ms Elizabeth Sorrell Mr John Cutts Ms Katelyn Stevenson Ms Yvonne Harrison Ms Susan Stevenson Mr Jintaek Kang Dr Andrew Thornley Mr Trevor Knight Mrs Margaret Wigmore Mr John K Martin Mr Max Woodward Mr Parriss McDougall Ms Claire Wright

RIVERINA PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Gerald Duncan Rev Keun-il Ko Rev Hawea Jackson Rev Mosese Taufa

LAY MINISTERS Lay Pastor Darren Wright

LAY PERSONS Mr Paul Ballard Ms Alison Campbell

Ms Dorothy Creek Mrs Janice Jackson Miss Kathryn Creek Mr Stephen Trickett Mr Paul Creek

SYDNEY PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Kent Crawford Rev Waisea Kania Logologo Rev Richard Dacey Rev Stephen Matthews Rev Jenny Ducker Rev Beverly Matthews Rev Nicole Fleming Rev Dr Margaret Mayman Rev Ben Gilmour Rev Bridget Ocean Rev Andrew Johnson Rev Dr Stephen Robinson Rev Raymond Joso Rev Suzanne Stanton Rev Rebecca Lindsay Rev Alimoni Taumoepeau

LAY MINISTERS Pastor Joanna Drayton Pastor Ian Forest-Jones

LAY PERSONS Mr Matthew Anslow Ms Valamotu Palu Mr Richard Archambault Ms Lillian Pene Mr David Barrow Ms Liuanga Palu Mr Taniela Bolabiu Ms Malia Puna Mr Susannah Brown Ms Catherine Ridge Mr Craig Corby Mr Scott Stanton Mr Curtis Dickson Mr John Teong Mr Ian Goff Mr Neori Tuinanuno Mr Mili Kaitani Mr Semisi Vaea Ms Frances Milne Mr Konisi Vosaicake Ms Emma Parr

SYDNEY NORTH PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Steve Everist Rev Graham Perry Rev Mark Hillis Rev Jan Reeve Rev Darren Liepold Rev Christopher Udy Rev Bronwyn Murphy Rev Krikor Youmshajekian Rev Miriam Parker-Lacey

LAY PERSONS

Ms Bek Allcroft Ms Kaye Lewis Mr Richard La’Brooy Ms Carol Mason Ms Rachel Fotu Mr Munesh Subash Mr David Garrett Ms Robyn Harvey Ms Gwen Huelin Mr Richard Johnson

THE HUNTER PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Dr Chris Budden Rev Rex Graham Rev Warwick Cadenhead Rev Lorna Martin Rev Stephen de Plater Rev Ray McIlwraith

LAY PERSONS Mr Anne Hawkins Ms Jenny Mathieson Mr Sean Jenkins Mr Greg Newton Ms Yvonne Kingsland Ms Lorraine Pepper Mr Bruce Lyon Ms Wendy Raine

UAICC

MINISTERS Rev Garry Dronfield Rev Harry Walker Rev Neville Naden

LAY PASTORS Mr Tom Sloane Ms Beth Wolfe Ms Annabelle Walker

LAY PERSONS Ms Lottie Bamblett Ms Emily Roberts Mr Jim Blacklock Mr Darryl Robinson Mr Hayden Charles Ms Stella Sloane Mr David Dowden Ms Queenie Speeding Mr Fred Logan Ms Dianne Torrens Ms Lena Logan Mr Tim Torrens Ms Carolyn Roberts Ms Malveena Welsh

CO-OPTIONS

MINISTERS

Rev Punam Bent Rev. Ivan Roberts Rev Andrew Cunningham Rev Lorenzo Rodriguez Torres Rev Rick Morrell Rev. Tony Schumack Rev David Reichardt

LAY PERSONS Mr Ray Minniecon Ms Narelle Murray Mrs Lyn Drabsch Mr Allan Secomb Mr Allen Gibson Ms Denise Secomb

CANBERRA REGION PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Kerry Bartlett Rev Riana Kok Rev Steve Coster Rev Chris Lockley Rev Kevin Dilks Rev David Russell Rev Mark Faulkner Rev David Stuart

LAY MINISTERS Lay Pastor Geoffrey Wellington

FAR NORTH COAST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev James Annesley Rev. Peter Overton Rev Robert Griffith

LAY PERSONS Mr Peter Boughey

GEORGES RIVER PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Grant Bilbey Rev Viniana Ravetali Rev Nancy Brawn Rev Kamaloni Tuiono Rev Charles (Salesi) Faupula Rev Graeme Watkins

LAY PERSONS Mr Ross Daddo Ms Carolyn More Mr Peter DeBeuzeville Mr Shane Slade Ms Margaret Goodwin Mr Semisi Kaihali

ILLAWARRA PRESBYTERY MINISTERS Rev Glenys Biddle Rev Nigel Hawken Rev Tony Davies Rev Charissa Suli Rev Geoffrey Flynn Rev Matthew Wilson Rev Annette Hawken

LAY PERSONS Mr Nathaniel Hawken Mr Ross Johnson Mr Kit Funaki Mr Langi Suli Mr Fatefehi Funki Mr Gavin Whitten Ms Rosaline Havea

KOREAN PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Sang Heon Ahn Rev Sun Il Jeong Rev Sam Yeol Cho Rev Jin Kap Jeung Rev. Bom Wook Choi Rev Chan Il Kim Rev Deok Hee Cho Rev Shin Goo Lee Rev Hyo-Jin Choi Rev Jung Eun Noh Rev Eun Hye Jeon

LAY PERSONS Mr Duk Min Kim Mr Sung Mi Kim Mr Jung Mi Kim Mr Andrew Lee Ms Stella Kim Mr Kyung Hee Lee

KU-RING-GAI PRESBYTERY

Mr Allan West

MACQUARIE DARLING PRESBYTERY

MINISTER Rev Karyn Burchell-Thomas Rev Maurine Redenbach Rev Sharon Cutts Rev Jo-anne Smalbil Rev Oto Faiva Rev Gareth Thomas-Burchell

LAY PASTOR Pastor David Shrimpton

LAY PERSONS Mr Kevin Barrington Ms Lorraine Pearson Ms Shirley Colless Mr Louis Smalbil Ms Sue Graves Mrs Valerie White Mr Brian Mowbray

MID NORTH COAST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Lindsay Cullen Rev Dr Jason John Rev Janet Dawson

LAY MINISTERS Pastor David Freeman

LAY PERSONS Mrs Penny Archer Ms Angela Lownie Ms Lyn Dun Ms Gwen Wilcox Ms Olivia Freeman

NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Jean Bell Rev Phill Matthews Rev Jim Furze Rev Will Pearson Rev Simon Hansford

LAY PERSONS Mr David Bissett Mr Tom Campanelli

Mrs Faye Heywood Mr Phil Tucker Ms Mere Lightfoot Ms Anna Vlasoff Mr Graeme Tolson

PARRAMATTA-NEPEAN PRESBYTERY

LAY MINISTERS Mr Bradon French

RIVERINA PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Gerald Duncan Rev Keun-il Ko Rev Hawea Jackson Rev Mosese Taufa

LAY MINISTERS Lay Pastor Darren Wright

LAY PERSONS Mr Paul Ballard Ms Alison Campbell

Ms Dorothy Creek Mrs Janice Jackson Miss Kathryn Creek Mr Stephen Trickett Mr Paul Creek

SYDNEY PRESBYTERY

LAY MINISTERS Pastor Joanna Drayton Pastor Ian Forest-Jones

SYDNEY NORTH PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Steve Everist Rev Graham Perry Rev Mark Hillis Rev Jan Reeve Rev Darren Liepold Rev Christopher Udy Rev Bronwyn Murphy Rev Krikor Youmshajekian Rev Miriam Parker-Lacey

LAY PERSONS

Ms Bek Allcroft Ms Kaye Lewis Mr Richard La’Brooy Ms Carol Mason Ms Rachel Fotu Mr Munesh Subash Mr David Garrett Ms Robyn Harvey Ms Gwen Huelin Mr Richard Johnson

THE HUNTER PRESBYTERY

MINISTERS Rev Dr Chris Budden Rev Rex Graham Rev Warwick Cadenhead Rev Lorna Martin Rev Stephen de Plater Rev Ray McIlwraith

LAY PERSONS Mr Anne Hawkins Ms Jenny Mathieson Mr Sean Jenkins Mr Greg Newton Ms Yvonne Kingsland Ms Lorraine Pepper Mr Bruce Lyon Ms Wendy Raine

UAICC

MINISTERS Rev Garry Dronfield Rev Harry Walker Rev Neville Naden

LAY PASTORS Mr Tom Sloane Ms Beth Wolfe Ms Annabelle Walker

CO-OPTIONS

MINISTERS

Rev Punam Bent Rev. Ivan Roberts Rev Andrew Cunningham Rev Lorenzo Rodriguez Torres Rev Rick Morrell Rev. Tony Schumack Rev David Reichardt

LAY PERSONS Mr Ray Minniecon Ms Narelle Murray Mrs Lyn Drabsch Mr Allan Secomb Mr Allen Gibson Ms Denise Secomb

32 Uniting Church in Australia Synod of New South Wales and the ACT Synod 2016

Recognition of Ministers of the Word & Deacons Ordained and Lay Pastors Commissioned since the 2014 Synod

Retired Ministers of the Word, Deacons, Deaconesses & Lay Pastors

Jubilarians

33 Recognition of Ministry Service

There Are Many Ways of Sharing NETTLETON TiS 392

There are many ways of sharing, But God's Spirit gives each one. There are different ways of caring; It's one Lord whose work is done. God, whose gifts are overflowing, May we hear you when you call; Keep us serving, keep us growing For the common good of all.

We've been baptized in the waters! We've been given work to do. When you call your sons and daughters, You give gifts for serving you. God, we join in celebration Of the talents you impart. Bless each baptized one's vocation; Give each one a servant's heart.

All are blest by gifts you give us; Some are set apart to lead. Give us Jesus' love within us As we care for those in need. Give us faith to make decisions; Give us joy to share your Word. Give us unity and vision As we serve your church and world.

Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 12 Tune: John Wyeth's Repository of Sacred Music, 1813 ("Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing") Text: Copyright © 2004 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved. Copied from Songs of Grace: New Hymns for God and Neighbor by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette (Upper Room Books, 2009).

Bible Reading 2 Cor 4:1,2,5-7

Introduction

Psalm 84: 1-7 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O LORD of hosts, my King and my God. Happy are those who live in your house, ever singing your praise. Selah Happy are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. As they go through the valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; the early rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; the God of gods will be seen in Zion.

34 3 Appreciations (names are read)

Presentation of Booklet to Moderator

Formal reception of Minute of Appreciation (received by applause)

Responses – Rev. Dr David Gill AM

Prayers for those who have been recognised and for the world they have served and continue to serve.

Hymn

1 We all are one in mission, We all are one in call, Our varied gifts united By Christ, the Lord of all. A single, great commission Compels us from above To plan and work together That all may know Christ's love.

2 We all are called for service To witness in God's name; Our ministries are different, Our purpose is the same: To touch the lives of others By God's surprising grace So every folk and nation May feel God's warm embrace.

3 Now let us be united And let our song be heard. Now let us be a vessel For God's redeeming word. We all are one in mission, We all are one in call, Our varied gifts united By Christ, the Lord of all. Author: Rusty Edwards, 1986 Tune: Aurelia [TiS 457]

35 4 (The members of the Synod stand and move to surround the people who are being honoured)

May the feet of God walk with you, and his hand hold you tight. May the eye of God rest on you, and his ear hear your cry. May the smile of God be for you, and his breath give you life. May the Child of God grow in you, and his love bring you home. TIS779 Author: Robin Mann, 1949 Tune: Aubrey [TiS 779]

36 5 Ordinations

MINISTER MINISTRY PLACEMENT DATE

Rev. Grant Atkins Minister of the Word Quakers Hill Community Uniting Church 22/11/2014

Rev. Christine Palmer Minister of the Word Turramurra South St Andrews Uniting Church 29/11/2014

Rev. Karen Paull Deacon Lane Cove Uniting Church 30/11/2014

Rev. Do Young Kim Minister of the Word South Australia 07/12/2014

Rev. Charissa Suli Minister of the Word Dapto Uniting Church 20/12/2014

Rev. Bridget Ocean Minister of the Word Ashfield Parish Mission 15/03/2015

Rev. Ellie Elia Minister of the Word Abbotsbury Uniting Church 22/03/2015

Rev. Paul Simpson Minister of the Word Pittwater Uniting Church 25/07/2015

Rev. David Kim Minister of the Word Upper Hunter Ministry 14/11/2015

Rev. Rick Morrell Minister of the Word Director of Ministry, UnitingCare NSW & ACT 24/10/2015

Rev. Adrian Sukumar-White Minister of the Word Sydney Presbytery 06/02/2016

Rev. Radhika Sukumar-White Minister of the Word Sydney Presbytery 06/02/2016

Rev. Jean Shannon Minister of the Word Canberra Region, Hospital Chaplain 21/03/2015

Rev. David Stuart Minister of the Word Canberra 24/1/2015

37 6 Commissionings

PASTOR MINISTRY PLACEMENT DATE

Mr Bernard Rodgers Pastor NSW Rural Fire Service 01/02/2015

Mr Mark Callaghan Pastor Maclean Uniting Church 01/02/2015

Mr Daniel Mossfield Pastor Queanbeyan Uniting Church 08/02/2015

Fiona Blair Pastor NCW Avalon Beach Village Church 15/02/2015

Stuart Davey Pastor Director Glebe Justice Centre 14/03/2015

Joanna Drayton Pastor Sydney Presbytery PRC 14/03/2015

Rosemary Myers Pastor Canberra Hospital 09/08/2015

Phil Dokmanovic Pastor Far North Coast Presbytery 01/02/2016

Greer Dokmanovic Pastor Far North Coast Presbytery 01/02/2016

38 7 Ministers Admitted as UCA Ministers from Another Denomination

MINISTER FROM PLACEMENT DATE

Rev. Robert Griffith Baptist Union Yamba - Iluka Uniting Church 5/12/2014

Rev. Margaret Mayman Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand Pitt Street Uniting Church 16/10/2016

Rev. Benjamin Gilmore Anglican Church Paddington Mission 16/10/2016

39 8 Ministers Transferred from Other Synods

MINISTER SYNOD DATE TRANSFERRED

Rev. Karen Paull South Australia 11/07/2014

Rev. Jenny Ducker South Australia 01/11/2015

Rev. Rick Morrell Western Australia 16/11/2105

Rev. Nicholas Cole Western Australia 01/01/2016

Rev. Agofie Marino VicTas 01/01/2016

Rev. Mafaufau Uilisone (Kili) VicTas 15/01/2106

Rev. Tim Robinson Queensland 21/01/2016

Rev. Ian Robinson Western Australia 01/02/2016

40 9 Ministers from Other Denominations Serving in The Uniting Church in Australia

MINISTER ON SECONDMENT FROM PLACEMENT

Rev. Darren Liepold United Church of Canada Neutral Bay Uniting Church

Rev. Ian Docker Anglican Church Chaplain, Bowden Bare Gardens Care Facility

Rev. John Candy Anglican Church Neutral Bay Uniting Church

Rev. Leigh Gardiner Anglican Church Springwood Uniting Church

Rev. Clare Brockett Presbyterian Church of Arrunga Care Facility, Aotearoa New Zealand Ermington and Thomas Bowden Care Facility, Ryde

41 10 Retired Ministers Of The Word

The Synod of NSW & Act celebrates these ministers who have retired since Synod 2014. The profiles below provide a brief history of each minister’s service prior to retirement. Many ministers have continued to serve the Church in numerous and creative ways too bountiful to list in this booklet. We give thanks for our retired ministers, their past and ongoing service to the Church.

Name: Rev. John Balding

Ordained: 1991 Retired: 30 November 2015 History: NSW; Date of Ordination: 15/02/1991; 01/03/1991 - 31/12/1996 100% Bellinger River; 01/01/1997 - 31/12/2003 100% Upper Hunter; 01/01/2004 - 31/08/2011 100% Ballina, Lennox Head, Wardell Multi Centre; 01/09/2011 - 29/11/2015 100% Moss Vale; 30/11/2015 Permanently Retired

42 11 Name: Rev. Kerry Bartlett

Ordained: 1981 Retired: 29 January 2016 History: Date of Ordination: January 1981; NSW; 1981-1984 Lake Macquarie West; VIC; 01/01/1985 - 31/12/1985 Defence Chaplain, Puckapunyal; QLD; 01/01/1986 - 31/12/1989 Defence Chaplain,Townsville; NSW; 1990-1992 Defence Chaplain, Royal Military College, ACT; WA; 01/01/1993 - 31/12/1995 Defence Chaplain; NSW/ACT; 01/01/1996 - 31/12/1999 Defence Chaplain, Australian Defence Force, ACT; 01/01/2000 - 29/02/2004 Defence Chaplain, Royal Military College, ACT; 01/03/2004 - 31/12/2011 25% Murrumbateman; 10/01/2012 - 30/04/2014 50% Hackett-St Margaret's 01/09/2014 - 28/02/2015 45% Long Supply at St Columba's 01/03/2015 - 31/12/2015 30% Long Supply at St Columba's; 29/01/2016 Permanently Retired

Name: Rev. Jeff Borg

Ordained: 1983 Retired: 9 September 2014 History: NSW; 01/04/1984 – 31/03/1987 Bega-Eden; 01/04/1987 – 31/12/1989 Awaiting Placement; 01/01/1990 – 31/12/1990 Leave of Absence; 09/09/2014 Permanently Retired

43 12 Name: John Brentnall

Ordained: 2010 Retired: 30/04/2015 Spouse: Janet History: NSW; 1/07/2008 - 30/04/2012 Berry 50%/Farmborough 50%; 19/7/2004 to 30/6/2008 50% Lay Minister Kieraview Congregation; 1/10/2005 to 30/4/2012 50% Lay Minister/Lay Pastor/Deacon Berry Congregation; 1/7/2008 to 30/4/2012 50% Chaplain UnitingCare Ageing (Farmborough Aged Care Centre); 11/9/2009: Commissioned Lay Pastor: 10/10/2010: Ordained Deacon: 1/5/2012 - 30/4/2015 Resource Minister Liverpool Plains Resource Ministry Area (Gunnedah, Quirindi, Werris Creek Congregations): 30/04/2015 Permanently Retired

44 13 Name: Rev. Dr. Brian Brown

Ordained: 1980 Retired: 28 February 2015 History: Brian migrated from South Africa to Australia in 1978 after two years as Methodist Probationer Minister in the Malvern/Queensburgh North Congregations, and two years studying Theology at Rhodes University Grahamstown. After graduating from UTC in 1979, Brian was appointed to Bathurst Uniting Church, where he was Ordained in 1980 and served from 1980-1984. Whilst at Kiama/ Jamberoo Uniting Church from 1985-1993, Brian was Chair of the Illawarra Presbytery from 1991-1993. Sydney Anglican Diocese employed Brian as Adolescent and Family Counsellor with Careforce Campbelltown from 1994-1995. Moving to Newcastle, Brian became the ITIM Chaplain at Newcastle BHP Steelworks from 1995-2000. Whilst at Hamilton/Broadmeadow Uniting Church from 2000-2011, Brian served as Chair of the Hunter Presbytery 2002-2003. Brian became Moderator of the Uniting Church Synod of NSW/ACT from 2011-2014. He retired to Newcastle NSW in February 2015.

“A privilege to serve in a church committed to the ministry of Jesus Christ for the Common Good.”

Name: Rev. Paul Cameron

Ordained: 1977 Retired: 30 September 2015 History: NSW; 01/01/1972 - 31/12/1972 Castle Hill (Lay Pastor Methodist); 01/01/1973 - 31/12/1973 Leigh College; 07/77 Gunning (Methodist); 01/08/1977 - 31/12/1980 Goulburn; 01/01/1981 - 31/12/1987 Hackett; TAS; 01/09/1987 - 31/12/1992 Launceston Central; NSW; 01/01/1993 - 30/11/1999 Turramurra; 01/12/1999 - 31/01/2005 Bondi Beach Parish Mission; 04/02/2005 - 29/09/2015 Normanhurst; 30/09/2015 Permanently Retired

45 14 Name: Rev. Tony Chi

Ordained: 1967 Retired: 30 September 2014 History: MALAYSIA; 1966-1968 Butterworth; USA; 1970-1971 Wisconsin; 1971-1973 Chicago; SINGAPORE; 1973-1981 Wesley; 01/01/1982 Became Uniting Church Minister; NSW; 01/01/1982 - 31/12/2000 Wesley Central Mission; 1992-1993 Moderator of NSW Synod; 01/01/2001 - 2009 EC. Singapore (Haggai Institute); 30/09/2014 Permanently Retired

Name: Rev. Eric Choi

Ordained: 1992 Retired: 22 September 2015 History: NSW; 01/03/1992-31/10/1996Ryde-Meadowbank; 1996-2000: Exchange Ministry in Korea; October 2006 - September 2015: Seoul Sangdo Presbyterian Church Korea; 22/09/2015 - Permanently retired

Name: Rev. Rob Colacino

Ordained: 19 February 1978 in the Anglican Church of Australia Retired: 1 July 2014 History: 01/02/1978 - 31/12/2002 Ministry with the Anglican Church; NSW; 01/01/2003 - 01/07/2014 Bega-Tathra; 01/07/2014 Permanently Retired

46 15 Name: Rev. Heather Coombes

Ordained: 1986 Retired: 26 June 2015 History: Heather commenced her ministry in her ordination year of 1986 with Ipswich Central Mission where she was placed until the end of 1988. From 1989 to May 1994 Heather worked as Associate Librarian at the UCA Centre for Ministry

From September 1994 to September 2002 Heather was aged care chaplain at the Uniting Church’s Mayflower Retirement Village, Gerringong, under the auspices of the Kiama Parish, then Gerringong Congregation. Aged care chaplaincy was the main thrust of Heather’s work at that time, and she was connected administratively and pastorally to the Uniting Church in Kiama and Gerringong.

Heather’s chaplaincy ministry continued on the Central Coast with UnitingCare Ageing from October 2002 until she retired in June 2015.

Name: Rev. Gregory Crawford

Ordained: 1982 Retired: 30 November 2014 History: NSW; 01/01/1983 – 31/12/1983 Griffith; 01/01/1984 – 31/01/1988 Coleambally-Darlington Point; 01/02/1988 – 28/02/1993 Dubbo; 01/03/1993 – 30/04/1994 Secular Employment; 01/05/1994 – 31/01/2009 Port Stephens; 01/02/2009 – 30/11/2014 Morisset; 30/11/2014 Permanently Retired

47 16 Name: Rev. Dr William Emilsen Ordained: 1980 Retired: 31 December 2014 History: Carolyn William Emilsen was born in Leeton on 7 October 1948. At the age of five his parents moved to the Atherton Tablelands in North Queensland where he did his schooling. After finishing high school he took a traineeship with AIS/BHP at Port Kembla and studied Science part-time at Wollongong University and then Food Technology full-time at the University of New South Wales.

In 1976, after some years working as a food scientist and science teacher, he candidated from the Leichhardt–Annandale Methodist Circuit. The following year he served as a student pastor at Earlwood Methodist/Uniting Church in the Campsie– Earlwood Parish. From Earlwood he went to Wesley College in the University of Sydney where he was appointed Vice Master (1978), student chaplain (1979–1980) and then University Chaplain (1981-1982). Wesley College was followed by an appointment to the Burwood–Croydon Parish where he served from 1983-1985 before commencing doctoral studies in history at the University of Sydney.

While undertaking postgraduate studies William had a half-time placement at Guildford-Granville (1986) and various other church and secular positions, including a year between ministers in the Blue Mountains Parish.

After completing his doctorate, William commenced teaching Church History at United Theological College (UTC) in a joint lectureship with his late wife, Susan. After Susan’s death in 2003 he continued on at UTC teaching Church History and World Religions until his retirement at the end of 2014.

In 2004 William married Carolyn Craig a former lecturer in media and communications and later a casual lecturer at UTC.

For much of William’s ministry he has concentrated on being a historian for and of the Uniting Church. He was a founding editor of Uniting Church Studies and has published major studies on the Uniting Church. William and Carolyn are actively involved in the life of the Leura Uniting Church.

48 17 Name: Rev. Janice Freeston

Ordained: 1994 Retired: 31 January 2016 Spouse: David History After her Ordination on 2nd of January 1994, Janice was placed at Windsor-Richmond from 01/02/1994 – 30/04/2001. For the next fifteen years, Janice served at Springwood/Winmalee and retired on 31st January 2016.

It has been a joy to serve God amongst the people of Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Working within congregations and the local communities has given me a real appreciation of the grace of God and the faithfulness of God’s people.

I have served on the Presbytery Ministry Committee, been co-ordinator of the Period of Discernment and have been on the Presbytery Standing Committee. It is a delight to see so many people using their God given gifts to make a difference in the community and to encourage people whom God has called into a specified ministry.

I have also been a volunteer Ambulance Chaplain for the last 8 years which I have found to be a very rewarding ministry. Walking beside paramedics, their families, and members of the public in the worst of times is an honour.

More recently, after the devastating bush fires in Winmalee and Yellow Rock, I have been able to build some great partnerships in the community, particularly with a local Neighbourhood Centre.

49 18 Name: Rev. Professor Emeritus James Haire AC

Ordained: 1972 Retired: 31 March 2015 Spouse: Julia History: IRELAND: Born 2 July 1946, Northern Ireland; 1972 Student Minister, Kells and Ervey Presbyterian Churches; 1972 – 1985: • Minister and Missionary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland to Halmahera and Sulawesi, Indonesia • Minister of the Evangelical Christian Church in Halmahera, Indonesia (Lecturer, Principal, Synod Consultant, Professor of Theology); NT: 1985 Minister of UCA; 1985 – 1986 Darwin City (Darwin Memorial); QLD: 1987 – 2003 Professor of New Testament Studies, Trinity Theological College, Brisbane; 1992 – 2000 Principal, Trinity College; 1991 – 1999 Dean and President, Brisbane College of Theology; 1994 – 2003 Professor of Theology, Griffith University; 1993 – 2000 Head of School of Theology, Griffith University; 2000 - 2003 President, UCA Assembly; 2000 - 2003Chair, National Heads of Churches;

NSW/ACT: 2003 – 2015 Executive Director, Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Director, Research Centre for Public and Contextual Theology, and Professor of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Canberra; 2003 – 2006 President, National Council of Churches in Australia; 2002 – 2014 WMC/Vatican International Dialogue; 2004 – 2010 WARC Network of Theologians; 2005 – 2010 Executive, Christian Conference of Asia; 2005 – 2015 Minister-in-Association, Canberra Central.

On retirement transferred to QLD: Since 2015 Minister-in-Association, St Paul’s and Armitage, Mackay. KSJ 2000, Centenary Medal 2003, AM 2006, Presidential Friend of Indonesia 2010, AC 2013. BA (Hons) and MA (Oxford), PhD (Birmingham), HonDD (Belfast), HonDUniv (Griffith), HonDLitt (Ulster), HonDUniv (ACU), Professor Emeritus (CSU).

50 19 Name: Rev. Dr John Hirt, AM

Ordained: 1970 Retired:31 December 2015 History: Rev. Dr John Hirt was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1970 and continued his ministry in Victoria until 1996 including his time with the Commission for Mission. He was accepted as Minister of the Word in Uniting Church on 28 October 1995 and served in the Victorian Synod as theologian in residence and mission adjudicator.

In 1996 he became the Chaplain at Sydney University and served in that position until 2015. He also served as the Leichhardt Parish from 2013 to 2015, before taking retirement at the end of 2015.

Whilst University chaplain at the University of Sydney John was also a University academic, teaching Religious Studies.

Within the UCA Assembly he served on the National Working Group on Doctrine for about a decade.

In January 2016 I was awarded a member of the order of Australia (AM) in recognition of the theological direction I have given to the Uniting Church and the formation of young adults.

51 20 Name: Rev. David Jackson

Ordained: 1978 Retired: 8 February 2015 History: Through his ministry, David has served across our continent. From Tasmania to Western Australia, David ministered to congregations. From 1979 until 1999 David ministered to congregations in Tasmania and Western Australia. David answered the call to become a fulltime Chaplain with the Royal Australian Army in 1999. He served in New South Wales, Western Australia and Northern Territory until his retirement in February 2015.

Tasmania: 01/01/1979 – 31/12/1984 George Town; 01/01/1985 – 31/12/1988 West Coast Patrol; Western Australia: 1/01/1989 – 31/01/1993 Karratha; 01/01/1994 – 31/01/1999 Maylands-Mt Lawley;

David’s Chaplaincy postings with Royal Australian Army were as follows: 01/10/2000 to 31/05/2003: Northern Territory; 01/06/2003 – 31/12/2006 Western Australia; 01/01/2007 – 31/12/2008 New South Wales; 01/01/2009 – 30/11/2012 Western Australia 01/12/2012 to 07/02/2015 New South Wales 08/02/2015 Permanently Retired to Western Australia

Name: Rev. Ron Law

Ordained: 2009 Retired: 30 November 2014 History: NSW; 05/07/2009 Commissioned as a Lay Pastor; 01/10/2004 – 31/05/2010 100% Alstonville; 01/09/2010 – 28/02/2011 50% Supply at Lismore; Ordained as a Minister of the Word 15 November 2009; 01/03/2011 – 30/06/2013 100% Coffs Harbour-Nana Glen; 30/11/2014 Permanently Retired

52 21 Name: Rev. Alan Lowe

Ordained: 16 December 1977 Retired: 31 July 2015 Spouse: Lee

History: Jan–Dec 1977 Bankstown Parish Student Pastor Jan 1978¬–Dec 1982 Yass Parish Parish Minister Jan 1983–Dec 1985 East Belconnen Parish, ACT Parish Minister Jan 1986–Feb 1992 Australian Regular Army Chaplain Mar 1992–Jan 2004 Thornleigh-Pennant Hills Parish Parish Minister Feb 2004–Jul 2015 NSW Police Force Senior Chaplain

It was my good fortune to be the first male ordained as a minister of the Uniting Church in Australia in the NSW Synod. During my service as a full-time Chaplain with the Australian Regular Army, I was posted to the Army Apprentice School (Bonegilla, Victoria) and to the Character Training Team based at Georges Heights in Sydney. My Army service continued as a Reservist until 2000, when I retired from military chaplaincy with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Towards the end of my placement at Thornleigh-Pennant Hills, the Parish was re- named Thornleigh Hillcrest and moved to a new complex. Whilst living at Thornleigh, I served on several Presbytery and Synod committees, and also commenced service as an honorary part-time Chaplain to the NSW Police Force. One of the highlights of my ministry was being chosen as a Co-ordinating Chaplain for the Religious Centre in the Olympic Village for the duration of the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games, which was a very enriching ecumenical and interfaith experience. In September 2014, I was honoured to be appointed as the first Principal Chaplain to the NSW Police Force, a position I retained until my retirement in July 2015. I have indeed been blessed to be able to mix my ministry placements so that I worked both in parishes (21 years) and full-time chaplaincy roles (18 years).

53 22 Name: Pastor Ross Neville

Ordained: Pastor Pathway B 2010 Retired: 1 July 2015 Spouse:Margaret History: 1976 Lay preacher Forbes, Parkes, Coonamble, NSW rural congregations, Upper Hunter ministry area. 1997 Sacrament Training; 1998 Pastoral Counselling; 2010 Pastor Pathway B; 2013 Transitional Ministry training; 2010 – 2014 Spiritual Direction training.

Full time ministry 1997 -2015: Feb 1997 - Dec 2002 Rural Support worker, Central West Presbytery based at Coonaamble; Feb 2003 - Dec 2011 NSW & ACT Synod Board of Mission, Rural Consultant; Feb 2012 - July 2015 Upper Hunter Ministry Hunter Presbytery; 1 July 2015 Permanently Retired

54 23 Name: Rev. John O Martin

Ordained: 1976 Retired: 30 April, 2015 Spouse: Noelene (d. 29/8/2014) History: Rev. John Martin was born on Reformation Day in 1948. He married Noelene in May 1973. John’s first placement was Presbyterian Home Missionary Waverley in 1975. Whilst at Bega-Eden in 1976-1978, John was ordained on 2 April 1976. During his Coolamon placement 1979-1984 the first Rural Orientation Courses were held in 1983 & 1984.

From 1985-1987 John served with North Shropshire Group of six rural churches where he became passionate about Fair Trade through Traidcraft.

Back in Australia, John was placed at Taree 1988-1995 and was the first Leader of Wellspring Community 1991-1995.

John placements continued with Penrith 1996-2005 and Windsor in Jan & Feb 2006 for Supply ministry. With UnitingCare Ageing John served as a Chaplain at Edinglassie, Emu Plains and Springwood from March 2006 to January 2008. John was Western Region Chaplaincy Coordinator and Chaplain at Springwood Feb 2008 until retirement on 30 April 2015. In July 2015 he moved to Robina, Qld to be near family. John volunteers with the Fair Trade Association of Aust. & NZ working in their Faith Group programme.

55 24 Name: Rev. Graham Olsen

Ordained: 30 November 1986 Retired: 31 March 2015 Spouse: Alison History: 1981 – 1983 Lay Pastor, Forbes; 1987 – 1993 Punchbowl-Greenacre; 1993 – 1998 Cronulla; 1999 – 2001 Berry Gateway; 2005 -2006 Supply, Bardwell Park; 2006 – 2015 Bardwell Park; 31 March 2015 Permanently Retired

It has been a great privilege to serve Christ and his body in a variety of capacities throughout the years of ministry. My goal has always been to preach Christ and him crucified, with the confidence that he will then draw people unto himself. Thankful for God’s blessing throughout our ministry, Alison and I move into this next stage of our lives, knowing there is yet work for us to do.

“To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen"

Name: Rev. Elizabeth Richardson

Ordained: 2000 Retired: 31 December 2014 History: NSW; Commissioned as a Lay Pastor 23/11/2008; Ordained as a Minister of the Word 11/10/2009; 01/11/08 – 31/10/09 Canberra Central; 03/10-08/10 – 31/08/10 Supply Eurobodalla 50%; 01/09/10 - 31/10/2014 Eurobodalla Linked Congregations 70%; 31/10/2014 Permanently Retired

56 25 Name: Rev. Mary Pearson

Ordained: 2000 Retired: 31/12/2014 History: From August 2000 to September 2006 Mary served with the Parramatta Centenary Uniting Church. In 2002 she became a Police Chaplain and enjoyed the challenge of being attached to the Parramatta Local Area Command. Mary trained as one of the early Disaster Recovery Chaplains and Peer Support people. She said that it was a privilege to be involved, in both those roles, in a number of places where people were struggling after disasters. From October 2006 until 2015 Mary was placed as a Mental Health Chaplain with Sydney South West Area Health Service. Since her time at Centenary Uniting Church Mary has been interested in, and involved in, interfaith relationships and chaired the first Synod Committee on Relations with Other Faiths. She represented the Uniting Church on the planning group for the annual Women of Faith dinner for 10 years. Mary has led a number of retreats for different groups and Presbyteries. She was invited to serve on the Council of St Andrews College at Sydney University to represent the Uniting Church, which she did for 8 years. Mary also trained in Pastoral Supervision, and is a member of the Australasian Association of Supervision and Transforming Practices. She continues to enjoy involvement as a supervisor.

57 26 Name: Rev. Colin Seymour

Ordained: 1978 Retired: 1 July 2015 Spouse: Carol History: NSW; Randwick; 1976-1977 Blayney; 1978-1982 Coffs Harbour; 1983-1989 Wentworthville; 1990- April 1998 Camden Supply; May 1998-March 1999 Camden; March 1999-March 2011 Permanently Retired 1 July 2015

Ministry has been a privilege within the congregations I was called to pastor. My personal Mission Statement begins. “Rest in Jesus. Bear the Cost. Make a Difference.” I hope that has been the theme of my ministry and one seen in the change that occurred in each congregation during the time of my ministry. The highlights of 40 years of service are the people; particularly those with whom I have had the privilege of leading into a saving faith in Christ or into a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit. It has been a joy to see the people of God discover their own gifts for ministry and service. I look forward to discovering what God has in store for this next season of my life.

58 27 Name: Rev. Lindsay Sheppard

Ordained: 1989 Retired: 31 December 2015 Spouse: Marcia History: Lindsay G Sheppard was born in Queensland on February 12 1951 and grew up in Inala in Brisbane. He attended the Inala Cooperative Christian Parish (Methodist, Presbyterian, Congregational), which later became a Uniting Church. He was one of six ministers to be ordained from this working class church. Lindsay worked for Queensland Rail for ten years. During these years his call to ministry became very real.

He began his ministry as a Lay Pastor in 1977 in Collinsville in Northern Queensland. From there he served as a Lay Pastor in Bundamba, Gatton and Townsville.

On 10 December 1989 Lindsay was ordained as a Uniting Church Minister. He continued to serve in Queensland, in Emerald, Maryborough and the Tweed Coast. In 2001 he transferred to the NSW Synod and served in Casino, St. Clair and the Lower Macleay River Linked Congregations incorporating Gladstone, South West Rocks and Yarrahapinni.

During his ministry John has always considered it to be a deep honour and privilege to serve in many different ways. His main focus has always been the local congregation where worship of the gathered community and worship in service has been central. In recent times he developed a deep focus and passion for social justice, being consistently challenged by the prophets and the ministry of Jesus. He believes, and is grateful that, the church has provided many great opportunities for the expression and evolution of his faith and ministry.

He permanently retired on 31st December 2015

59 28 Name: Rev. John Thornton

Ordained: 12th October 2008 Retired: 31st January 2016 Spouse: Veronica History: John began ministry in 1991 with the Coffs Harbour Parish, | appointed Pastoral – Evangelist with responsibility for the Sawtell congregation and a teaching brief across the parish. Highlights of this time were the blossoming of ministry in the Sawtell region with a greatly heightened community profile for the local church and the establishment of a Lay Ministry team at Woolgoolga UC. In 2002 John was called to establish a regional presence in the new housing region of North-West Sydney, specifically in the Rouse Hill - Kellyville region and beyond. This was an exciting and successful time over ten years with the fruit of this period still being felt. It was during this time that he transitioned from Lay Pastor to ordination a Minister of the Word in October 2008. In 2012 he was called to lead the Lismore Regional Mission in the Far North Coast Presbytery where we experienced four years of stimulating and fruitful ministry. John also enjoyed being a part of the renewal of the Far North Coast Presbytery serving as Chair of the presbytery for two years. He served for a number of years on the then Board of Mission and chaired the Evangelism and Renewal Committee. In recent times John has been a member of the Synod Standing Committee.

60 29 Name: Rev. Ian Tucker

Ordained: 2009 Retired: 31 August 2015 History: NSW; 01/06/2003 - 30/06/2004 50% Eurobodalla, Mt. Dromedary; 01/07/2004 - 30/09/2005 100% Eurobodalla, Mt. Dromedary; 01/10/2005 - 30/04/2010 100% Crookwell Wesley; 01/05/2010 - 07/2013 100% Ian was the first the first Frontier Services Patrol minister placed in NSW, based in Cobar and Nyngan and the Far West. 01/08/2013 - 31/08/2015 UnitingCare Ageing South Eastern Region - Chaplain Illawarra Hub; 31/08/2015 Permanently Retired

61 30 Name: Rev. Veitinia Waqabaca

Ordained: 1998 Retired: 30 April 2015 Spouse: Suka History: Veitinia was born in Fiji in 1943. She tried to become a Minister but the Methodist Church was not ready for females. From 1964-1977 Veitinia was a School teacher. In 1977, she migrated to Australia and in 1981 received her Bachelor of Arts. In 1998 Veitinia graduated with her Bachelor of Theology and became the first indigenous Fijian Minister in the Uniting Church of Australia. Veitinia served the Fijian Canterbury Church in 1998-2002, thence to Parramatta Mission to care for a Fijian Congregation and a Multicultural one at Westmead for 13 years. Veitinia was Chairperson for the UC Pacific Islands Council for 15years, a project funded by the NSW Government. She was awarded her Masters in Theology in 2013. In April 2015 Veitinia retired and is currently supply Minister for the Auburn Tonga Parish.

Name: Rev. John Warham

Ordained:1992 Retired: 31 July 2015 Spouse: Margo History: 20 December 1992 - Ordained at Grantham Heights Uniting church 01/1993-02/1998 - Charlestown, Garden Suburb and Whitebridge Uniting Churches; 03/1998-01/2003 - Chaplain at John Hunter Hospital (organised by Presbytery); 02/2003-01/2013 - Merewether Central and Park Street Uniting Churches; subsequently Merewether Uniting Church From 1 February 2013 further study; John served as Newcastle Heads of Churches clergy nominee to the Hunter New England Area Health Services Health Research Ethics Committee for period of 10 years. 31/07/2015 – Permanently Retired

62 31 Name: Rev. Gary Whelband

Ordained: 1988 Retired: 17 July 2015 Spouse: Gwyneth History: Gary undertook his Theological training with Brisbane College of Theology 1984-1987. His Queensland placements included Bundaberg 1988 – 1990, Barcaldine/Blackall 1991 – 1994, and Townsville, 1995 – 1996. With the Army Reserve, Gary was a Chaplain in Townsville 1996 – 1997. On Assembly Placement with the Royal Australian Air Force, Gary served as a Chaplain 1997 – 2005. His postings were initially to RAAF Base Point Cook VIC 1997 and RAAF Base Fairbairn ACT 1998 – 1999. In 2000 Gary was posted to Royal Malaysian Air Force Base, Butterworth, Malaysia. During his time with the Australian Defence Force Academy (Canberra 2001 – 2003), Gary was deployed to East Timor July 2001 – Jan 2002. He was posted to RAAF Base Darwin, NT in 2004. Back to the ACT, Gary was placed with Weston Creek UCA 2005 – 2008. Gary recommenced an Assembly Placement as Chaplain with Air Force Headquarters, ACT 2008 – 2009, and within this posting he was deployed to Afghanistan, September 2008 – February 2009. His next posting was in Adelaide SA 2010 - 2011 with RAAF Base Edinburgh. In 2012 – 2013, Gary was posted at RAAF Base Amberley, Ipswich QLD. Gary’s final posting was in Canberra ACT 2013 until 17/07/2015 when he permanently retired.

Name: Rev. David Wrightson

Ordained: 2005 Retired: 23 November 2014 History: NSW; 01/01/1996 - 31/05/2003 Holroyd; 01/06/2003 - 23/11/2014 Quakers Hill; 23/11/2014 Permanently Retired

63 32 Name: Rev. Dr Myong Duk Yang

Ordained: 1989 Retired: 20 February 2015 Spouse: Sharon History: During the 25 years of active ministry, Rev. Dr Myong Duk Yang was blessed to work with different part of the church including a parish in Melbourne, Associate in mission in China, cross-cultural & world mission consultant in the NSW Synod, Mission co-worker in the General Assembly of Presbyterian Church of Korea, and Associate in mission in Korea Host Committee for the 10th Assembly of World Council of Churches. In 1989 Myong became the Director of Georges River Presbytery, Society for Ethnic Mission. From 1992 to 1996 he was an Associate Lecturer in Mission (The UCA World Mission) at Yenbian University, China. From 1996 to 2000 he served the congregations of Central Box Hill Parish /Hanbit in Victoria. This was followed by service to the Synod Board of Mission in the role of Mission Consultant for Cross Cultural Ministry and World Mission. From 2005 to 2010 he became the Synod Board of Mission Cross Cultural consultant (Asia). Myong then took an Assembly placement in Korea working as a Mission co-worker of Uniting World from 2010 to 2012 and in 2012-2013 he became the Director for International Relations, Associate in Mission (The UCA Uniting World) at Korea Host Committee for the 10th Assembly of World Council of Churches. Myong was also able to contribute to the life of the church with several publications including Crossing Borders: Shaping faith, ministry and identity in Multicultural Australia (2006), Korea & Australia: 120 Years of History (2009), Introducing UCA (as translator, 2010), 30 Years of Korean churches in Australia (2004), Tales of Two Churches: Australia & Korea (2012).

The Assembly Multicultural & Cross-cultural Ministry Committee on 13/03/2010 “recorded its deep appreciation for the faithful and gifted ministry of Myong in particular his significant contributions to cross-cultural ministry in the UCA and internationally.

64 33 Jubilarians 50 years – ordained in 1965/1966

REV. CLABON ALLEN NSW; Ordained and commissioned as a Missionary 05/05/1966; Malaysia 1966-1979; Hong Kong 1979-1987; London (with United Reformed Church) 1987-2003; Became a minister of the UCA 28/6/04. Permanently Retired

REV. K. BARRY ANNESLEY NSW; Port Kembla 1960; Robertson 1964-1965; Canowindra 1966-1969; Gilgandra 1970-1973; Northern Inland Mission 1974-1980; Kinsgrove-Bardwell Park 01/81-10/90; Broken Bay 10/90-03/99; Shoalhaven 06/97-06/02; Permanently Retired 07/02

REV. GRAY BIRCH WA; Midland 1966-1970; Kwinana 1970; Karratha AIM 1970-1976; NSW; AIM/National Mission/Frontier Services 1976-1977; A.Commission for National Mission 07/77- 1986; A.Frontier Services 1986-1991; Lockhart 01/92-1996; Lyneham 01/97-12/03; Permanently Retired 01/04

REV. JOHN BURNARD NSW; Wentworthville 1965-1966; Nyngan 1967-1971; Corrimal 1972-1976; SE.1977-04/00; Permanently Retired 05/00

REV. DR MILTON COLEMAN NSW; Wallsend 1965-1967; USA; Clifton and Patterson 1968-1970; Wisconsin 1970; Topeka 1970-1971; Denver 1971-1972; NSW; Caringbah 1973-1974; Dept. Christian Citizenship 1975-1977; CP.Board for Social Responsibility 1977-1982; United Theological College 01/83-02/96; NEW ZEALAND; OC.Knox Theological Hall New Zealand 03/96-01/01. NSW; Permanently Retired 02/01

REV. RUSSELL DAVIES NSW; Ordination into the Methodist Church on 16/10/1966 at Leigh Memorial Church, Parramatta; Boggabri 1963; Morisset 1964-1965; Elanora Heights 1966- 1970; Paddington 50% and “Editor” The NSW Methodist 50% 1971-1977; Board of Communications Services, “Editor Forward” NSW Synod newspaper 1977-1979; Dubbo 01/80-08/86; Ryde-Meadowbank 09/86-02/89; AP.03/89-06/90; Marrickville 07/90-11/99; Lucan Care (Sydney Presbytery) 12/99-01/04; Permanently Retired 02/04

65 34 REV. RONALD DENHAM NSW; Hurstville Grove 1957-1961; Homebush 1961-1963; Inner City 1964-1968; APBM 1968-1974; South Sydney Minister in Association 1974-1977; Pitt Street Uniting Church, Minister in Association 1977-1983; Pitt Street Minister in Association Without Settlement 1983-1992; Permanently Retired 11/92

REV. DR DONALD EVANS NSW; Lakemba 1962-1965; Mayfield 1966-1968; CMM 1969-1972; Belmont/East Lake Macquarie 1973-1985; New Lambton 01/86-12/93; Pastor, Presbytery of Ku-ring-gai 01/94-02/01; Moderator of NSW Synod 1996-1998; Permanently Retired 03/01

REV. JAMES GALLAGHER SA; Eudunda 1963-1965; Kalangadoo 1966; Tailem Bend/Coomandoor 1967-1970; NSW; Penrith 1971-07/77; Sutherland 01/78- 12/83; Merewether 01/83-11/91; Chatswood-Willoughby 12/91-03/97; Northern Illawarra 04/97-03/00; Permanently Retired 04/00. Moved to QLD 2010

REV. DR DAVID GILL NSW; Epping-Cheltenham 1962-1963; VIC; ASCM 1964-1965; Canterbury 1965; USA; New London 1966-1967; SWITZERLAND; WCC 1968-1979; NSW; A.Assembly General Secretary 1980-07/88; NCCA 08/88-01/02; EC.Kowloon Union Church Hong Kong 02/02-01/06; Permanently Retired 02/06

REV. KENNETH JARVIS NSW; Ordained as Baptist Minister September 1966; Military Chaplain 02/68 - Australian Army Kapooka, Wagga Wagga 02/69 then Vietnam 01/70; Army’s Character Training Team 01/71; Chaplain Army Apprentices School Mornington Victoria 01/73; Royal Australian Navy H.M.A.S. Leeuwin, Perth 01/75; Fleet Chaplain H.M.A.S Cerberus 1977 1976; RAN Staff College Navy Chaplain then Principal Chaplain 1984 -89; Director General of Chaplaincy RAN, Canberra 1989-91; Associate Minister Canberra Baptist Church, Kingston ACT 1991-95; North Woden Parish, UCA1995; Inducted as Minister of the Word 1998;Yarralumla 1998 - 12/03; Permanently Retired December 2003

REV. KEITH KESTEL NSW; Crookwell 1964; Lambton 1965-1966; Batlow 1967-1970; Corowa 1971-1974; Moruya-Tilba 1975-1979; Forster 1980-1986; Blacktown 01/87-03/92; Corrimal 04/92- 05/97; Awaiting Placement 08/96-07/97; Wallsend 08/97-12/99; Kurri-Weston Congregations 01/00-04/04; Permanently Retired 05/04.

66 35 REV. DAVID KIDD Ordained 06 April 1966; Maclean NSW 1966-1969; Corrimal-Balgownie NSW 1969- 1974; Defence Force (Army) Chaplain 1972-1995; Woollahra and Double Bay NSW 1974-1981; Mackay Qld 1981-1987; Ermington NSW 1987-1993; Bundaberg Qld 1993-2000; Permanently Retired 31 December 2000.

REV. JAMES LONGMUIR NSW; The Entrance (pre-collegiate year)1959; Bulahdelah 1963-1965; Tenterfield 1966; Tamworth 1967-1970; Casino 1971-1977; Tuggerah Lakes 1978-1983; The Hills/ Baulkham Hills 01/84-11/93; Kiama 12/93-06/99; Permanently Retired 07/99

REV. RONALD LOOM NSW; Nowra 1958-1959; Harden 1963; Cabramatta 1964-1965; Dubbo-Narromine 1966-1968; Molong 1969-1970; Deniliquin 1971-1974; Junee 1975-1979; Forbes 1980- 12/84; VIC; Albury/Albury North/Lavington 01/85-05/92; NSW; East Lake Macquarie 06/92-02/97; Leeton 03/97-12/01; Crookwell 01/02-12/04; Permanently Retired 01/05

REV. ROBERT LUXTON NSW; East Maitland 05/95-02/97; Manilla-Barraba 03/97-01/99; New Lambton- Kotara 02/99-12/00; 09/01-07/04 Cumbria in United Kingdom; Permanently Retired 07/01

REV. SHIRLEY MCLEOD NSW; Granville 1965-1996; Charlestown 1964; Menindee 1967-1972; Leichhardt 1975; Permanently Retired

REV. ROBERT MCSWAN NSW; Bonalbo 1965; South Grafton 1966-1967; Moree 1968-1972; Tuggerah Lakes 1973-1977; Casino 1978-1979; SE.1980-1983; Kingsgrove-Bardwell Park 01/84-09/93; Sutherland 10/93-05/00; Permanently Retired 06/00

REV. LINDSAY MILLER NSW; Delungra 1961-1962; Berowra 1963-1964; Wauchope 1965-1966; Lockhart 1967-1970; North Parramatta (Dundas West)1971-1975; Crookwell 1976-1980; Five Dock 1981-1986; Port Kembla-Shellharbour 01/87-06/92; Leichhardt-Stanmore 07/92-03/98; Permanently Retired 03/98

67 36 REV. DR DOUGLAS PARKER NSW Ordained at Cobar 04/03/1966; 1966 - 1967 Cobar; 1967 - 1971 Molong; 1971 - 1975 Thirroul; 1975 - 1983 Synod Board of Education; 1983 - 1984 Study Leave Lancaster Theological Seminary; 1984 - 1995 Manly-Allambie Heights; 1995 - 2004 Rose Bay-Vaucluse; 31/05/2004 Permanently Retired

REV. WILLIAM PENNEY NSW; Home Missionary Lidcombe-Berala 1950; Tumbarumba 1950; Merewether- Adamstown 1951-1952; Moruya 1952-1953; Captain's Flat 1953-1954; Helensburgh 1954-1956; Corrimal-Balgownie 1956; Villawood 1959; Woodenbong-Urbenville 1960-1963; Cabra-Vale-Mt Pritchard 1963-1966; Minister of the Word Gloucester 1966-1970; Culcairn 1970-1974; Narrandera 1974-1979; Goulburn 1979-1984; Leave of Absence1984-1988; Permanently Retired 08/88

REV. DR TOM PLAIZIER NSW; Various Placements 1966-12/75; Resigned as a UCA minister 01/76; Readmitted to the UCA 01/91; Northside 01/91-01/04; Permanently Retired 02/04

REV. RAY RICHMOND NSW; Bonalbo 1966; Rylstone 1967-1969; Narrandera 1970; SE.1971-06/91; Wayside 07/91-06/04; Permanently Retired 07/04; to QLD 08/04.

REV. DR ALAN SCOTT VIC; East Geelong 1959-61; South Melbourne-Windsor 1961-63; East Malvern- Gardiner 1963-65; Bruthen 1965-69; ITIM 1969-1/86; TAS; Hobart City 02/86-04/92; VIC; Presbytery Minister Presbytery of Nepean 05/92-03/97; Permanently Retired 04/97

REV. RALPH SHORT NSW; Narromine 1960-1961; Mortdale 1962-1964; Dorrigo 1965-1966; Deniliquin 1967-1970; Ballina 1971-1972; Mortdale 1973; Burwood 1977-1982; SE.1983-09/92; Permanently Retired 09/92

REV. ALLEN TAYLOR NSW; Tamworth 1963; PNG; Overseas Mission 1964-1987; NSW; Eastwood 1987; Burwood-Croydon 03/88-08/96; Permanently Retired 08/96

68 37 REV. JAMES WATSON NSW; Mullumbimby 1965-1968; Moss Vale 1968-1972; Leeton-Yanco 1972-1978; Gladesville 1979-07/88; Cessnock 08/88-01/95; Permanently Retired 01/95

REV. TONY WINTER NSW: Probationary Minister Tamworth 1963 - 1966; Ordained 1966; Corowa 1967 - 1970; Federal Methodist Inland Mission at Port Headland 1971-1973; Studied at Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey 1974 - 1975; Campbelltown Regional Mission 1975 - 1977; Newtown Mission 1977 - 1979; Dee Why 1979 - 1985; WA; Perth Inner City Youth Service 1986 - 1987; Deputy Head Kingswood College UWA 1988 - 2000; NSW; Permanently Retired 2000

REV. COLIN WOOD NSW; Wakool 1963-1965; Wallamba 1966-1968; SE.1970-1976; Wesley Mission Director Community Services 1976-1994; Wesley Mission Pastoral Services 1994 - 07/02; Permanently Retired 08/02

69 38 60 years - ordained in 1955/1956

REV. COLIN DRURY NSW; Castlecrag 1949; Punchbowl 1949-1950; North Parramatta 1950-1951; West Wollongong 1954-1959; Coolamon 1960-1963; Mudgee 1964-1967; Five Dock- Drummoyne 1968-1972; Croydon Park 1973-1979; Sylvania 01/80-02/88; Revesby 02/88-12/92; Permanently Retired 12/92

REV. EDMOND LAWRENCE ‘LAURIE’ GRAY NSW: Ordained in 1965: Papua New Guinea; 1958-1973; NSW; Como-Oyster Bay 1974-1981;Jannali 1977-1981; Kiama/Gerringong 1982-1991; Northern Illawarra 1992- 1996; Bulli Palliative Care (1982-1996); Permanently Retired 1996; Post retirement – ongoing Chaplaincy at Uniting Mayflower in Gerringong; Member of the Order of St Luke; instrumental in the formation of Victorious Ministry through Christ; Spiritual Direction for many Emmaus walks; died April 2016.

REV. DR WILLIAM IVES NSW; Date of Ordination: 01/03/1956; Mudgee 1956-1959; Canberra (St Ninians) 1959-1964; Eastwood 1964-1991; Convener of Presbyterian Theological Education Committee 1970-1977; Part-time Steel Lecturer in Pastoral Theology at St Andrew’s College1973-74; Inaugural Member of United Theological College Council 1976-2002; Member of the first UTC Faculty as Part-time Director of Field Education 1975-82; Original Chair Person of the Committee on Education for the ministry 1977-86; Chair of the Council of UTC 1992-97; Moderator of NSW Synod 1986-1987; Woolhara- Double Bay 1991- 03/95; Cherrybrook 04/95-12/97; S.Acting Executive Director, Board Of Mission 02/99-01/00; IIM Lindfield Tyron Road 02/00-02/01; IIM St John's Wahroonga 04/01-07/02; Long Supply Sydney St Stephens Macquarie Street 08/02- 11/02; IIM Sydney St Stephens 12/02-12/04; Permanently Retired in December 2010.

REV. RALPH LANCASTER NSW; Bonalbo 1950-1951; Berrigan 1954-1956; Dungog 1956-1959; Wollongong 1960- 1964; Merewether 1965-1969; Maclean 1970-1974; Granville 1975-1979; Punchbowl- Greenacre 1980-12/89; Awaiting Placement 01/90-07/92; Permanently Retired 08/92; to QLD 03/07

REV. DR RALPH LAWTON SA; Nangkita 1947; Balaklava 1948; Unley 1953; Bordertown 1954; Melrose and Booleroo 1955; PNG; Salamo 1957-60; Dobu 1961; Kiriwina 1961-1972; OC. 1973-1992; NSW; East Belconnen 1992 – 1996; Braidwood 1997-1998; Permanently Retired 1998

70 39 REV. BARRY RIDGE NSW; Boggabri 1950-1951; Milton 1955; Gunning 1956-1960; Toronto 1961-1964; Katoomba 1965-1970; Auburn 1971-1977; Yarralumla (North Woden) 1978-1982 – during this time Barry was visiting civilian Chaplain at Fairburn for the RAAF and was asked to preach at the annual RAAF service for the Battle for Britain commemoration; Strathfield-Homebush 1983-1990; Permanently Retired 1990; Post-Retirement – ongoing Chaplaincy, Service on Committees and Supply Ministry.

REV. JOHN ROBBINS NSW; Charlestown 1950; Overseas Missions 1954-1969; Murwillumbah 1970-1972; SE.1973; Bulli 1974-1982; Sutherland 1983-1991; Permanently Retired 1991

REV. ALAN STUART VIC; Kooyong Heights 1956-57; KOREA; 1957-68; VIC; State Sec BOEMAR 1969- 75; Ringwood East 1976-1983; Wangaratta 1984-1991; Permanently Retired 1991; St Luke’s, Mount Waverley Sep 1991 – Jan 1992; Northern Beaches & Freshwater congregations, Cairns, Queensland March - Aug 1992; Numurkah Uniting Church June - Sep 1994; Vermont Uniting Church Nov 1994 - Jan 1996; Lilydale Uniting Church Aug 1996 – Jan 1998; Associate Minister with the Hahn Bit Korean Uniting Church in Box Hill in 1997; St. Aidan’s Uniting Church, North Balwyn several Supply Ministries between Aug 1998 and Jan 2000; Korumburra Uniting Church Oct – Dec 1998; Koonung Heights Uniting Church March 2001;Wynyard Uniting Church, Tasmania June - July 2001; Ongoing preaching at Wallsend and Shortland, Grahamstown and Raymond Terrace Congregations.

REV. NEVILLE THRELFALL WA; Gosnells 1951-1952; Gnowangerup-Tambellup 1952-1954; Mt. Barker 1954-1958; Moora 1958-1960; PNG; Nakanai 1961-1964; Raluana 1964-1967; Kavieng 1968-1970; Matupit 1971; Reg. Sec. 1972-1975; Literature & Publications Dept. 1976-1977; Reg. Sec. 1978-1980; Historical Work 1981-1982; WA; Dalwallinu 1982-1989; Avon Valley 1990- 1993; Permanently Retired 1993; Transferred to Synod of NSW and Act 1996. Locum at Grenfell, Parkes, Forbes between 1996 and 2004; Minister in Association Tuggerah Lake South 2002-2016.

71 40 70 years and over - ordained in 1945/1946

REV. M JEAN MCKINNON NSW; Ultimo 1945-1947; Glebe 1948-1951; Greta Migrant Camp 1952-1953; Redfern 1953-1960; Parramatta 1960-1969; Presbyterian Homes for the Aged, Ashfield 1970-1978; Leichhardt 1978; Blacktown 1979-1982; Eastwood 1983-1985; Permanently Retired1985; Voluntary Service Stockton and Grahamstown Parishes 1985-2006; Chaplaincy and Counselling in Aged Care Facilities 1989-1991; 1990 – OAM for Services to Religion.

The materials in this booklet which relates to retired Ministers and Jubilarians was occasionally edited for reasons of length 72 41 APPENDIX C

RESIGNED MINISTERS OF THE WORD / WITHDRAWAL OF RECOGNITION

Note that since the last meeting of the Synod in 2013 the persons named hereunder resigned from the ministry of the Uniting Church in Australia and their recognition as Ministers of the Word were withdrawn on the dates indicated:

Ministers of the Word Rev. Sophia Ng Recognition Withdrawn 4 December 2014 Rev. Leonie Hill Recognition Withdrawn 14 February 2015 Rev. Colin Batt Recognition Withdrawn 9 September 1025

MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER SYNODS

Ministers of the Word Rev. Karen Paull South Australia 11 July 2014 Rev. Jenny Ducker South Australia 1 November 2015 Rev. Rick Morrell Western Australia 16 November 2015 Rev. Nicholas Cole Western Australia 1 January 2016 Rev. Agofie Marino Victoria and Tasmania 1 January 2016 Rev. Mafaufau Uilisone (Kili) Victoria and Tasmania 15 January 2016 Rev. Tim Robinson Queensland 21 January 2016 Rev. Ian Robinson Western Australia 1 February 2016

(A) MINISTERS OF THE WORD WHO HAVE DIED

Ministers Rev. Frank Butler died 18 November 2015 Rev. Peter Pereira died 14 December 2014 Rev. Eric Knight died 30 December 2014 Rev. Dr Frank Glen died 5 February 2015 Rev. Merle Pearce died10 February 2015 Rev. Dr Graham Hughes died 16 February 2015 Rev. Elizabeth Howard died 1 March 2015 Rev. Rae Trenerry died 10 March 2015 Rev. Dr John Thompson died 14 March 2015 Deaconess Christina Anderson died 25 March 2015 Rev. Dr Gordon Moyes died 5 April 2015 Rev. Shirley Parkin died 5 April 2015 Rev. Hendrick Smit died 9 April 2015 Rev. Laurence Thompson died 16 April 2015 Rev. Dr Gordon Dicker died 17 April 2015 Rev. Lloyd Vidler died 22 April 2015 Rev. Donald Drury died 26 April 2015 Rev. John Amery died 25 May 2015 Rev. Doreen Prowse died 26 May 2015 Rev. Robert Floyd died 21 June 2015 Rev. Charles Maish died 20 July 2015 Rev. Perry Smith died 7 August 2015 Rev. Viliami Halaifonua died 7 August 2015

73 Rev. Lynette Collins died 30 September 2015 Rev. Colville Crowe died 3 October 2015 Rev. John O’Reilly died 12 December 2015 Rev. Adrianne Dempster died 13 December 2015 Rev. John Ford died 4 January 2016 Rev. William Clarke died 1 March 2016 Rev. David Sackett died 11 March 2016 Rev. Jack Hely died 19 March 2016 Rev. Edmund Laurence Gray died 26 March 2016

(B) DEATHS OF SPOUSES OR WIDOWS OF MINISTERS LISTED Mrs Isabella Johnstone, wife of Rev. Barry Johnstone, died 31 August 2014 Mrs Gwen Matthews, widow of late Rev. Rex Matthews, died 10 October 2014 Mrs Pat O’Reilly, mother of Rev. Greg Woolnough, died 14 October 2014 Ms Madge Harrison, mother of Rev. Alan Parker, died 21 October Mr. John Harris, son of Rev. Dorothy Harris-Gordon, died 29 October 2014 Mrs Meg Mason, wife of Rev. John Mason, died 17 April 2015 Mr Jim Henderson, father of Rev. Gregor Henderson, died 6 May 2015 Mr Eric Clayton, father of Rev. Gareth Clayton, died 14 June 2015 Ms Fiona Davies, daughter of Rev. Alan Smart, died 5 July 2015 Mr Rex Napper, brother-in-law of Rev. Tony Winter, died 3 August 2015 Mrs Joy Robinson, mother of Rev. Dr Stephen Robinson, died 20 August 2015 Mrs Delma Gordon, widow of late Rev. Tom Gordon, died 29 September 2015 Mr. Neville Naden, father of Rev. Neville Nadan, died 14 October 2015 Mrs Marie Hibbard, mother of Rev. Roger Hibbard, died 13 November 2015 Mr Russell Lawrence, father-in-law of Rev. Patty Lawrence, died 24 November 2015 Mr George Budden, father of Rev. Dr Chris Budden, died 17 January 2016 Mrs Phyllis Saunders, widow of the late Rev. Robert Saunders, died 26 March 2016 Mrs Jennifer Scott, wife of Rev. John Scott, died 27 March 2016

(C) DEATH OF LAY LEADERS OF THE CHURCH – PEOPLE WHO HAVE EXERCISED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN THE LIFE OF THE SYNOD Mr Ron Freer, died 14 February 2015 Mrs Audrey Mann, died 6 May 2015 Mr Ivan Reichelt, died 28 April 2015 Mr Noel Watts, died 28 July 2015 Mr Iripa Maevea, died 28 December 2015 Mr. Anthony Boughton, died 24 March 2016

74 APPENDIX D

OBITUARIES

REV. JOHN AMERY 6th December 1927 to 24th May 2015

John Amery was born at Narrandera on 6th December 1927. He completed his theological training at Leigh Theological College at Enfield and was ordained at Wesley Chapel on 7th March 1957.

On 12th March 1955, he married Lexie Hotchkiss who has faithfully served in ministry with John throughout the whole of his active ministry.

Following on from college Rev. Amery served in Cooma/Bombala for five years. Subsequent to this he served at Kurri Kurri for four years, then he moved to Alstonville in 1964 where he also served as Financial Secretary for the Far North Coast Methodist District and was Secretary for the Caroona Methodist Homes for the Aged. He then moved on to Inverell (the then Northern Inland Mission) in 1969 for the next five years.

From Inverell John moved into the joint Methodist and Congregational Parish of New Lambton, Lambton and Jesmond in 1974. While in this Parish, Church Union commenced and John stayed on at New Lambton working with Rev. Lachlan McInnes.

During 1974 he went with a group of volunteers to Darwin to help re- build the Uniting Church property that had been destroyed by the cyclone.

For the last six months of John’s time at New Lambton he worked half time in the parish and half time for the Methodist Homes for the Aged and then in 1979 became the first full time Administrator. This later became Hunter Retirement Living. He concluded this role in February 1984.

Nine happy years then followed at Wallsend and from there John retired in 1992.

While serving in the Hunter, he was actively involved in the life of the Methodist District and then Hunter Presbytery and served as Secretary of the Methodist District. In the Hunter Presbytery John served as Chairperson of the Presbytery Property Committee and was elected as Chairperson of the Hunter Presbytery and Pastoral Relations Committee in 1990.

He also served on the NSW Synod Board of Social Responsibility from 1979 – 1987 inclusive and on the Synod Board of Property & Finance in 1988 and represented the Hunter Presbytery at Synod and Council of Synod.

One of his many strengths in ministry was his pastoral care and his love of people and after retiring he was still in great demand for funeral ministry. In addition, John never lost his vision and strong passion for aged care work in the Hunter and served for ten years (1993 – 2003) on the Board of Hunter Retirement Living until the regionalisation of Uniting Care Ageing Boards took place.

To honour his work in aged care, in March 1994, he was awarded the Uniting Church in Australia National Ministry with Seniors Award for many years of service to seniors. In 1996 the new recreation hall at Narla Village was named after him.

75 In retirement, as well as his work in aged care, John continued to actively serve God and the church in many different ways - in preaching, pastoral care and supply ministry .

In the latter time of John’s life he moved into Maroba Aged Care Facility at Waratah. He passed away on 24th May 2015, and a Thanksgiving Service was held at Wallsend Uniting Church on 2nd June 2015.

Well done good and faithful servant.

REV. FRANK BUTLER 23 December 1923 – 18 November 2014

Frank Butler has a long and illustrious ministry and his contribution to the life of the Congregational church in the first instance and then to the Uniting Church, will long be valued and remembered. Frank was born on December 23, 1923. He completed his secondary schooling at North Sydney Boys High and after working for Nestle for a short time, he served in the RAAF as a pilot in the 24 Squadron. This was followed by his time with Shell as a Chemical Engineer. In 1953 he entered Camden Theological college at age 30. For years, he’d been doing a lot of work with young people in the church, and wanted to understand more about what was involved. Congregational Youth Fellowship camps were huge, with more than 500 under canvas. During his years in Victoria, working with Royal Dutch Shell, he travelled the state encouraging other young Christians. Many of these remember him today. In candidating for ordination, Frank wanted to know more about what he had already been doing for some time. He was ordained in the Congregational Church in 1956 and served initially at Lidcome. In 1956 he married Gwladys Clatworthy and in that year they went together to Papua with the London Missionary Society. He later served with the Papua Ekalesia and United Church in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands from 1956 to 1971. In Papua, Frank spent much of his time in Christian education, training pastors, deacons, and other local leaders. On his return to Australia there was no ministerial placement available but shortly he began in his role as Secretary of the Congregational Union of New South Wales from 1972–1977. He was also Executive Secretary of the Joint Planning Committee from 1975–1977 and played an instrumental role in Union. On the formation of the Uniting Church, Frank became the first General Secretary of the NSW Synod (a position that he held for from 1977 to 1984. He served again in this position from July 1986 to February 1987. Close to his heart was the ordination prayer from the Congregational Book of Services which read: “Almighty God . . . Keep him simple in character, pure in heart, clear in judgement, unselfish and earnest in purpose, and lowly in personal claim, dwelling among this people as one who serves. Maintain his first zeal; broaden his vision; endow him with large sympathies and an open mind. . . . Grant him sincerity . . . patience . . . and courage . . . Save him from the paralysis of doubt and despair.” Frank passed away on November 18, 2014.

76 DEACONESS CHRISTINA ANDERSON Died 25th May 2015

Christina ministered in the Social Services Department of the Presbyterian Church and moved to the Navy as a social worker after an outstanding career in the Presbyterian Church.

REV. WILLIAM CLARKE 18 October 1939 – 1 March 2016

Rev. William Clarke was a student Pastor in Katoomba Congregational from May 1965 and also served In Guildford- Cabramatta Congregational from June 1967 until November 1969.

He was ordained on 14/11/1969 and then served at Sutherland-Woronora and Menai Congregational parishes.

On January 1 1976 William was inducted into Nhulunbuy, N.T. (United Church in Northern Australia). He then served at Casuarina, N.T. in 1980, followed by Parish of Darwin and Karama and Palmerston congregations.

During 1988 William moved to Ireland where he was the stated Supply for the Congregations of Dunfanaghy and Carrigart (Eire) within the Presbyterian Church of Ireland.

He served as Congregational minister to Congregations of Sylvania and Sylvania Heights from 1989 to the end of 1998; Bardwell Park from 1999 to 2005. In 2005 he was called to Caringbah UCA where he concluded his ministerial service and retired from ministry on 31st December 2015.

William reflected on how fortunate he was to have been upheld by the Lord Jesus Christ in such diverse situations, ministering to Aboriginal, ethnic, traditional and new formed pioneering congregations. He was very grateful for the support from so many wonderful lay people who with him, pressed toward the high mark of the calling of Christ Jesus. He believe Jesus deserved any glory due anywhere in his life and ministry.

William expressed his thankfulness to have been allowed over 50 years of ministry in a denomination that supported him within congregations, who offered him an abundance of love and care.

William was also lovingly supported by his wife, Catherine, and his children and grandchildren. In his final days he found comfort in the words of St. Paul in Philippians 3:10- 11, believing that he may be found in Christ, not having a righteousness of his own but one that comes from faith in Christ;

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and sharing in his sufferings by becoming like Him in His death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead”

REV. LYNETTE ANNE COLLINS 29 December 1951- 20 September 2014

Rev. Lynette Anne Collins was born in Balmain on the 29th December 1951. She committed to following the way of Jesus at the age of 15 and felt a call to ministry. She entered into the formation process of becoming a Methodist Deaconess (2 years younger than the usual admission and without prior qualifications) at 19 years of age. Lyn trained at Central Methodist Mission in Sydney, and Wagga Methodist Church. On the 19th October 1975 she was ordained as a Methodist Deaconess (with an Ordination Certificate) at the age of 23. Lyn remained in Wagga from 1975-77, taking a leave of absence to complete her Bachelor of Arts in 1980.

Lyn served as Deacon to the Sutherland Uniting Church Parish from 1981-1983. At which point she was encouraged to follow her calling to Ministry of the Word. In 1984, Lyn commenced study at the United Theological College in Enfield, graduating in 1987 with a Bachelor of Theology. She then ministered at Engadine, in the Helensburgh Parish until 1992.

In 1993, Lyn felt called to Hobart Tasmania, where she ministered to the East Derwent Parish. The Port Arthur Massacre occurred in Lyn’s parish. Lyn responded by joining with her ecumenical colleagues from the Catholic and Anglican churches supporting each other and their community with prayerful care.

Lyn returned to NSW in 1998 to minister to the six congregations within the Grahamstown Parish. She also served as President of Raymond Terrace Rotary Club. In 2005 Lyn’s energies and capacity to minister were depleted and she took a leave of absence until December 2011 when she formally retired from ministry. During and after this time she worked as a Teachers’ aide in a local Primary School and then as Admin Assistant at Jesmond Park Uniting Church.

Lyn’s approach to worship, congregational service and community engagement was invitational. She was good at helping people at the edges of the church feel welcomed and at ease. Her trademark style was to fling herself wholeheartedly at each new venture. Lyn spent all that she was and most of what she had in ministries of some form.

Lyn was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 and with secondaries in 2014. Lyn handled her illness with dignity and honest rage. Lyn died on the 30th September 2015, aged 63. We give thanks to God for the fullness of this woman’s life and faith.

78 REV. COLVILLE CROWE 29 October 1932 to 3 October 2015

Norman Colville Crowe grew up in Queensland and responded to a call to ministry which led to training with the Presbyterian Church. He was ordained at 24 years of age. He served with the Church in Timor, becoming fluent in Indonesian. Later he served in in Papua New Guinea (University Chaplaincy); and in Parish ministries in Australia.

For many years Colville worked with the Joint Board of Christian Education (JBCE) and Uniting Education in Melbourne, Victoria, serving as a Deputy Director, writer, editor and administrator.

He was widowed in 1990 and remarried in 1995. With his wife Seongja Yoo he moved to Sydney in 1997

Colville was a mentor and adviser for National Assembly Multicultural Ministry. He held membership and gave support with the Sydney Cheil Congregation.

In retirement, he served with several congregations including St. David’s in Lindfield, South Turramurra, East Killara, Pymble Chapel, and Epping Uniting Church. For many years Colville served with three Indonesian congregations as a preacher in Neutral Bay, Wentworthville and Maroubra for many years. For many, he will be remembered with affection, as a valued writer for With Love to the World.

REV. ADRIANNE MURIEL DEMPSTER Rev Adrianne Dempster died on Sunday 13th December, 2015

Adrianne was ordained as Minister of Deacon on the 28th February, 1998 in the New South Wales Synod. Adrianne’s story is one that is deeply connected to God and interwoven with her husband’s ministry. She served and ministered alongside Graham who was ordained as Minister of the Word one year earlier in 1997.

Before ordination, Adrianne was a qualified teacher upgrading her teaching qualification to a Bachelor of Education in 1981. She also had a great interest in netball and held significant positions for the Australian Netball Association. Adrianne’s ministry began in the early 70’s when they with their 3 children, moved from Brisbane to Canberra so Graham could become the Commonwealth’s National Fitness Adviser.

During the 70’s and 80’s Adrianne served God in teaching Sunday School, leading youth groups, choirs and bible studies. Many of these early experiences as challenging and exciting as they were, shaped and influenced her future ordained ministry. Adrianne espoused a deep and long lasting commitment to ecumenism, she worked cooperatively in team ministry and shared Christ’s love and compassion for people regardless of background and circumstance.

In 1988 in preparation for retirement at 55, they purchased a house in Tathra. God had other plans for both Graham and Adrianne. In 1990 Graham enrolled at St Mark’s to test his calling into ordained ministry and was accepted as a candidate in 1993. The Uniting Theological College offered spouses of Ministry Candidates the opportunity to take courses, so in 1994 Adrianne enrolled in a certificate course and then transferring to a Bachelor of

79 Theology. These decisions to study were all within the framework to be a support person to Graham’s ministry. It was in 1995, when Adrianne started an 11 week intensive CPE Course for Chaplaincy, where she received a call into ordained ministry.

Adrianne and Graham’s first placement together was at South West Rocks. During this time Adrianne fulfilled roles as deputy Chairperson of the Presbytery of the Mid-North Coast, Chairperson of Parklands Cottage Respite Care Centre and on Synod Selection Panel for 5 years. She conducted an ecumenical choir for 7 years, led regular services for 3 congregations, a quarterly healing service and monthly service at a Nursing Home. They ministered and served here for 7 years until retirement in February 2005.

Since retirement, Adrianne facilitated Christian Meditation Groups in their home at Tathra and in Maleny church, attended World Community of Christian Mediators Conference in Malaysia, Ireland and Brazil, trained as leader of Christian meditation groups in 2007, led retreats for Christian meditators, supervised and mentored Lay Pastors, was a member of the Board of the Pastoral Counselling Institute, 2005 – 2008 and minute secretary for Bega Valley Advocates for Timor Leste. Adrianne also completed a 4 year course in Spiritual Direction at Kincumber, NSW.

It was in early 2009, where Adrianne and Graham transferred from NSW Synod to the Qld Synod and found in retirement a call to be Chaplains at Bluecare’s Erowal Aged Care facility in Maleny.

It was here that Adrianne and Graham made a long lasting impact on staff, volunteers and residents of Erowal, as well as the wider community of Maleny and indeed across the Blackall Range. Between them they established a choir for residents, their families, staff and volunteers. They conducted weekly worship services, provided a room closing service, memory day service for the families who had lost a loved one and pastorally cared for all people who set foot on the site. Since mid 2014 Adrianne had enjoyed retirement, again continuing to lead the weekly Meditation Group at Maleny, provide spiritual direction, be the events coordinator for weddings and funerals at Maleny and lead worship across the Blackall Range Uniting Church congregations.

Adrianne graciously, generously, humbly and sacrificially gave all to God and God’s mission. Adrianne was a faithful servant of God who fulfilled her ordination call as Minister of Deacon; she loved those within the church community and challenged them to look beyond the gathered space to those in need. She also loved others beyond the church community welcoming them in to explore God’s love for them. She was a compassionate, dignified, thoughtful, caring and quiet woman who is greatly missed.

Rev. Catherine Solomon March 2016 for Qld Synod Meeting May 2016

80 REV. DR GORDON STANLEY DICKER 16 May 1930 – 16 April 2015

Gordon Dicker was a gifted country boy from Girilambone, a small town some 660 km north- west of Sydney. His father, Alfred Vernon, was kind, gentle and respected—a devout Methodist but not a wowser. Gordon’s mother, Ida Amy, was extremely ambitious for her children, especially Gordon, the youngest of her six sons. Despite the obvious disadvantages of attending a one-teacher school, Gordon’s natural ability won through and he was accepted into Fort Street. At 16, Gordon went to the University of Sydney, taking English, History, Psychology and Philosophy. Gordon shone at philosophy, and had hoped to do honours in it but the Methodist Conference had other plans for him.

After his BA Gordon was sent to Wagga Wagga for a year as a Methodist probationer. Then, not yet 20, he started studying theology at Leigh College. While at Leigh Gordon began to blossom as a leader. He was elected co-president of the Student Christian Movement at Sydney University and Senior Student at Leigh College. Cecil Gribble, the General Secretary of Methodist Overseas Mission, saw his potential and persuaded him to serve in Timor as a missionary.

Gordon was reticent about his own achievements in Timor but more forthcoming about the impact of the experience on the family. For example, they learnt the meaning of real poverty and that people with little could be joyful and full of hope in God. Like many who grew up in the Depression, Gordon did not have a sense of entitlement: he was careful not to place too much importance on wealth and possessions, but rather on relationships and matters of the heart and the spirit.

After two terms in Timor Gordon returned home to take the position of Vice-Master of Wesley College and Chaplain to Methodist students at the University of Sydney. The final year at Wesley was very difficult with a new baby and family sickness and Gordon decided to take his family to the United States where he studied with Professor Paul Lehmann at Union Theological Seminary in New York and served half-time in a United Church of Christ church in New Jersey.

On Gordon’s return from the United States at the end of 1969, he served in the Belmont and Gladesville Circuits. From 1976 until his retirement at the end of 1995 Gordon was Lecturer in Theology and Principal Of United Theological College.

Gordon was not a flamboyant theologian but was solid and thoughtful. His strength was that he wrote for the people of God not for other theologians. Before his Faith with Understanding was published there was no other systematic theology accessible to lay people. Gordon did not dabble at the edges; his concern was the central teachings of Christianity and the need to help people better understand their faith. For Gordon theology and preaching went hand in hand. His sermons always had theological depth, passion and the common touch.

Gordon was a committed churchman. He was not a self-proclaimer. He learnt early that the first rule of ministry is to listen well. As Moderator in 1984/1985 he faithfully followed that rule. Gordon’s churchmanship was shaped by a spirituality which emphasised conversion, faith, discipleship, commitment, and personal sanctification balanced by service to the poor and needy. He was concerned with what he saw as an emphasis on law rather than grace in the life of the Church and a dependence on structures as substitutes for spirituality.

81 Gordon’s strength as College Principal was his ability to strengthen relationships between the College and the leaders of the NSW Synod. He held the respect and the confidence of the wider Church and even when the College was faced with severe budget restraints Gordon had the goodwill and the skills to negotiate his way through. As Principal, Gordon had an enormous workload. He could not have coped without the support of Ruth, good friends, and, at that time, a Faculty who was prepared to share his burden.

Gordon will be remembered as a thoughtful and trustworthy theologian, a highly-respected churchman and a much-loved Principal. He was a shy and complex man who did not promote himself but throughout his life and ministry put Christ and the work of the Church first. He is survived by his wife Ruth and three sons Alan, Peter and Russell.

William W. Emilsen

REV. DONALD DRURY 12th April 1930 to 26th April 2015

NSW: 1957-1962 Ballina; 1963-1966 Coffs Harbour; 1967-1971 Mayfield; 1972-1978 Liverpool; 1979-1984 Newtown; 1984-1990 Penrith; Permanent Retirement in October 1990.

REV. ROBERT (Bob) J FLOYD 21st October 1936 – 21st June 2015

Rev Bob Floyd was born at Orange NSW on 21st October 1936. Bob was born with a hair lip and a cleft palate which required surgery early in his life, including treatment and speech therapy. Bob’s father, being a schoolteacher decided to transfer the family to Sydney in order for Bob to receive the necessary medical and other treatment.

Following his schooling, Bob worked for the Department of Main Roads in Glen Innes and Wagga Wagga. During that time Bob became involved in the Methodist Crusader movement and he was a very well-known Crusader especially in the Riverina District. Following a Crusader Camp at Crookwell, Bob entered the Evangelist’s Training Institute at the Central Methodist Mission in Sydney to commence training for the Methodist Ministry. He joined with Neville Gray, Arnold Parrott, Vernon James, John Turley and Tony Winter in the “angel’s roost”- as the Evangelist’s Institute was affectionately known - and he saw the transition of Superintendents of the C.M.M. from the Rev Dr Frank Rayward to Rev Alan Walker.

Unfortunately some months into his training as an evangelist, Bob’s health failed, and he withdrew, but his call to the ministry remained constant and a high priority for him. Bob offered himself to the Home Mission Department as a Home Missionary. He was appointed to Bulli Circuit where he met Mavis, soon to become his wife, and to Sutherland, before entering Leigh Theological College. His first appointment was to Albury before his Ordination and marriage to Mavis.

Bob was an evangelist. He always preached for a verdict and was passionate about the gospel. He had a certain stance in his body as he preached, and with appropriate gestures, and his powerful voice, he immediately captured the attention of his listeners.

82 Bob had a great compassion for the Ecumenical Movement and he had many friends in other denominations of the Church, friends like Dally Messenger Jr. Bob was always lovingly supported by his wife Mavis and his children David, Tony and Jennifer.

While serving at Tweed Heads, Rev Alan Walker especially claimed Bob to serve at Glebe as part of the Central Methodist Mission. During that time Bob travelled to New Zealand with Alan Walker who conducted Evangelistic Missions there. But these were troublesome times for Bob, and he had a further appointment at Windsor, where he was again unwell, but continued on to serve at Dulwich Hill, and at Leeton, and from there he took early retirement due to ill- health and the family moved to the Central Coast at Wyoming. However, the call to preach and minister was ever present for Bob and he accepted a call to Toowoomba and he and Mavis spent five challenging, but satisfying years in Queensland. Bob finally retired in 1993, and spent his final years close to family and friends in Adeline Nursing Home at Wyoming, where he died on 21st June 2015.

Well done Bob, good and faithful servant.

REV. EDMOND LAWRENCE ‘LAURIE’ GRAY 16 November 1928 to 26 March 2016

We thank God for the life and ministry of Rev. Edmund Lawrence ‘Laurie' Gray.

Laurie’s family made many sacrifices to put him through Bible College and thereby enabled him to fulfil his calling to be a missionary. These many acts of sacrifice at that time would ultimately bless many people, via Laurie’s future ministry.

Following his ordination on 12th January 1956, Laurie served in the following contexts: Papua New Guinea (1956-1973), Como-Oyster Bay Congregational Churches (1974-1981), Jannali Uniting Church (1977-1981), Kiama/Gerringong Uniting Church (1982-1991), Northern Illawarra Uniting Churches (1992-1996), Kiama, Bulli Palliative Care (1982-1996), and continued service at Mayflower Gerringong until his death in March 2016.

Together with Laurel, Laurie’s partner in life and mission, Laurie also was instrumental in the establishment of Southside Christian Fellowship.

Laurie was a gifted healer, and his ministry with the Order of St Luke, and, as a foundation member of VMTC’s prayer ministry since the 1970s, has been valued by many.

He was a valued spiritual director for many Emmaus walks, and indeed a wise counsellor in every walk of life.

Laurie’s also served for 30 years in hospital chaplaincy in the Illawarra, bringing the love and truth of Christ to those in a time of need.

At a service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving for Laurie’s life, he was remembered as one who would literally and figuratively pick people up out of the gutter, and as a humble, yet powerful warrior for the Lord with awesome gifts of healing & deliverance and discernment of spirits. He was steadfast for the truth, yet loving and good natured.

We will remember a loving husband, father and grandfather who taught his family how much the Lord loved them.

REV. VILIAMI HALAIFONUA 31 March 1951 – 7 August 2015

Viliami was ordained on 6 December 2008. His first position was at Scone and District Uniting Church where he worked from December 2007 to January 2012. He then took the position as Chaplain at Bowden Brae in Sydney Region where he worked until his death.

Viliami had a very fruitful ministry with residents, families, staff and volunteers at Bowden Brae. A gentle but strong pastor to his people, gifted with pastoral skills especially with those at end of life bringing comfort and hope to those in his care. Residents especially enjoyed his Worship Services, meaningful stories in his pastoral sermons and wonderful singing as Viliami led worship. He was also was a wonderful encourager to other members of the Sydney North Pastoral Team and to the staff at Bowden Brae, he took time to listen counsel and nurture all he encountered.

Viliami was generous with his time to ministry in wider church, to the Synod and his preaching was sought after by the Tongan Congregations. Serving God was his delight and joy. He was a Godly man with a gentle sense of humour and a caring and loving husband and father.

Viliami lived and died courageously, faithful to the God he loved, a powerful witness to all who knew and loved him.

84 REV. DR JOHN “JACK” HELY CBE OAM 11 December 1922 to 19 March 2016

A life of service to the Methodist and then Uniting Church in Australia.

At the age of 18 Jack obtained his Methodist Lay Preachers Certificate and for more than 76 years he has been leading Worship services. Jack was active in leadership roles within the Methodist & Uniting Church at all levels from: • The Congregation (for more than 30 years as Circuit Steward) • Parish • Presbytery • NSW Synod Boards and Agencies • NSW Council of Synod • Church Assembly • Councils of the United Theological College • Uniting Church Centre of Ministry • Chaplain to the 2000 Para Olympics in Sydney

Between the years 1980 and 1990, Jack completed studies for a Diploma in Theology at the same time as being the Business Manager of the Theological College, plus initiating, planning and overseeing the development and construction of the combined campus for the Uniting Church Centre for Ministry at Parramatta.

At the age of 68 in 1991, Jack was Ordained as a Minister of the word with a special role “Ministry with Persons with Disabilities” and served as Associate Minister in a number of Parishes between Hurstville and Jannali. Jack chaired the DESC (Disability Education Services Committee –a Synod Committee that met at CfM) in the early 1990s and this introduced disability issues into the Uniting Church. A disabilities resource manual was produced for use at Synod and Assembly levels. As a disciplined study to develop a theology and policy for the Uniting Church in Australia in relating with persons with disabilities, Jack entered into a Doctor of Ministry and at the age of 74 obtained his PhD.

In recognition of his service to the Uniting Church in Australia and to the Community, Jack was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division in 2015.

Reverend Dr John “Jack” Frederick Hely CBE, OAM passed away peacefully on 19 March 2016, aged 93 Years.

Jack was the dearly beloved husband of Hazel (who predeceased him). He was the loved father and father in law of Kay and John, John and Robyn, and Ken, as well as the cherished Granddad and Great Granddad to their children. He will be sadly missed by all his extended family and friends.

"A Life Well Lived" and forever in our hearts.

REV. BETH HOWARD 21st August 1928 to 1st March 2015

Rev. Beth Howard (nee Robinson) was born in Young NSW on 21st August 1928. As a young teen, Beth overheard her big brother, Charlie Robinson, read Matthew 11:28-29, Beth committed her life to God and later, at the age of 21, left the family property of Springview, to become a Deaconess in the Methodist Church.

Beth served a variety of congregations in Canberra as deaconess before marrying Barrie Howard. Their eventual divorce led Beth to become a Home Missionary, serving in Cabramatta before being ordained in 1978. Lismore parish was her first placement as an ordained minister. Beth taught twenty or more Scripture classes every week as well as superintended the Sunday school.

An ordained woman was still a fairly new thing and Beth responded to isolated pockets of criticism with patient grace. In 1983 Beth accepted a call to Wellington NSW and 5 years later moved to serve the congregations of the Wagga Wagga parish. Beth was also very active in the Crusader movement and facilitated their annual reunion until 2013.

On retiring around 1995, Beth moved to Canberra, then to Sydney to be near her daughter, Rev. Bronwyn Murphy. Beth was the best Nanna in the world for her 9 grandchildren, and was also the loved aunt of Rev. Alan Robinson, Rev. Peter Robinson, Rev. Stephen Robinson and Rev. Julie Furner. Beth would want it said that many of her other nephews and nieces are also beautiful ministers for Christ – and had the good sense to avoid ordination!

Beth died of colon cancer on 1st March 2015, aged 87. Beth was known for her wonderful stories, her great capacity to love people, and her enduring gratitude that her Lord, and her Church, allowed her to serve.

REV. DR GRAHAM HUGHES 15TH September 1937 to 16th February 2015

NZ: 1971-1975 Waikaka Valley; NSW: June 1977 – January 2003 S.UTC; February 2003 Permanently Retired.

REV. ERIC KNIGHT 8 May 1933 – 30 December 2014

Eric Knight was born in 1933, the son of Rev. George Knight and his wife Ivy (née Nelson). He was born in Macksville, the first of three children, and the family moved around according to George’s placements, such as Coolamon, Boorowa, Kempsey and Queanbeyan. George Knight was an army chaplain during World War 2, during which time the family lived on their grandfather’s dairy farm.

Eric finished his high school in Queanbeyan; then he joined the Commercial Banking Co. as a clerk, and had postings in six branches, the last one being Warialda. After a year in National Service he started training for the Methodist ministry in 1954, as student minister in Gloucester, and at Central Methodist Mission with Rev. Alan Walker; then he entered Leigh College in 1957. In 1958, while in Yeoval as a student minister, he met Verna Tremain. They married in 1960, and he was ordained in 1961.

Eric ministered in the Methodist circuits of Gloucester, Uralla, Quirindi-Murrurundi, Penrith, and Coonabarabran; he was in Dapto-Albion Park at the time of Church Union and later went to Balmain. Then in 1987 he became a prison chaplain with the Board for Social Responsibility, serving at Long Bay and then Silverwater before retiring in 1998. After some years in Rozelle he and Verna moved into aged care at “The Marion” in Leichhardt.

Eric was respected as a hard worker and a faithful pastor. He had a love of reading, and he had an active and enquiring mind, as shown by his decision to take two years out of ministry in 1966-67, in order to study for a Diploma of Social Science. Then while a prison chaplain he read for a D. Min from California, (including the necessary trip to be on campus there for a while). He was very fond of music, could play the organ, and loved to go to concerts. In retirement he set up his garage to cater for a major hobby – woodworking.

Eric died in December 2014; he is survived by Verna and their children, Graham, Richard and Elizabeth.

REV.CHARLES MAISH 8 March 1930 to 20 July 2015

Rev. Charles R.J. Maish died in his home on Monday 20 July, at The Rock, and was buried in The Rock cemetery on Friday 24th July 2015.

The outline of Charles’ work and ministry are fairly straightforward: after working as a High School teacher for several years, in Bathurst, and then at Canterbury Boys’ High School, Charles candidated for the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church, trained at the Hall, and was ordained at The Rock Presbyterian Church in 1959. Charles served the seven congregations of that charge for thirty seven and a half years. Asked why he had stayed for this time, he once answered that he liked the people.

During his ministry, Charles served as Clerk of the [Presbyterian] Presbytery for many years, as Secretary of the Riverina Presbytery of the UCA for a long term, and then as Chairperson of the Presbytery of the Riverina for about three years. Charles was a learned man, skilled in a number of languages, who in his retirement undertook and completed the substantial task of translating the complete dramatic works of Plautus from the Latin into English. Charles’ wife, Sylvia, died in 1990.

REV. DR GORDON MOYES 17th November 1938 – 5th April 2015

Rev. Dr. Gordon Moyes began his ministry in Victoria as a Churches of Christ minister. He was ordained in 1959 and served as minister to Ascot Vale & Newmarket 1957-1963; Ararat 1964-1965 and to Cheltenham 1966-1978. In January 1979 he was appointed as Superintendent of Wesley Mission [and Minister of the Uniting Church] from 1979 until 2005. He will be remembered for his contribution in expanding so many distinctive and enduring Wesley Mission services. He concluded his ministerial service there and retired from ministry in January 2006.

Like those before him, he gave himself untiringly to a media ministry, believing that it was one of the key ways in which the gospel could be shared with the nation.

He declared evangelism to be the heartbeat of Wesley Mission. However, it was not only in the life of the church that Gordon made a huge contribution, but in the wider community. In the field of politics and community engagement, Gordon was at the forefront of his day. He entered the New South Wales Legislative Council in 2002, following a resignation. Gordon subsequently stood at the 2003 State Election and was elected in his own right.

He will be remembered as one strongly committed to Wesley Mission's Word and deed ministry.

REV. JOHN O’REILLY 9TH October 1927 – 12th December 2015

John O’Reilly began his Ministerial journey as a Home Missionary with the NSW Methodist Conference, being appointed to the Myall River Circuit. His first service in that appointment was on 28th April, 1946. He lived at Tea Gardens. The following year he moved to The Entrance as the Assistant to Rev. Ernest Foster of Wyong. After being received as a Candidate for the Methodist Ministry at the Conference of 1948, he was appointed as a Probationer to Glen Davis in the Capertee Valley north of Lithgow.

The years 1949-1951 were training years at Leigh College, Enfield. After College, he was appointed to the Far West Mission, resident at Cobar, with Ordination taking place during the Conference of 1954.

Placements in the years following were in Wallamba (Nabiac), Canowindra, The Rock- Lockhart, Tennant Creek (Northern Territory), Cootamundra, Central Hunter, Lakemba, Molong and Blayney.

John served as Secretary and Chairman of the South West District while at Cootamundra. He was Chairman of the Hunter District until Church Union in 1977 and then was Deputy Chairman and Acting Secretary for a time of the Hunter Presbytery. He later served periods of time as Secretary of the Georges River Presbytery, and Treasurer and Secretary of the Central West Presbytery. He retired from the active ministry on December 31st, 1992.

After retirement John filled in at a number of congregations for varying periods of time, including Orange, Singleton, Hamilton and Toronto, and at other congregations and institutions in the Hunter Presbytery.

88 REV. SHIRLEY PARKIN 28 December 1927 – 6 April 2015

Shirley Joan Parkin was born in Sydney and attended Fort Street Girls High. She worshiped as a member of Five Dock Methodist Church and qualified as a Lay Preacher at that church.

Shirley trained as a teacher and began teaching in 1950. Her last appointment was as Principal at Thornleigh West Public School.

She was encouraged to consider serving as a Minister of the Word and, post-retirement, Shirley began theological education and formation through the United Theological College. She was ordained at Crows Nest, aged 61.

Shirley’s first ministry placement was with Canberra City Church from July 1991 to Dec 1994. Following this she moved to Epping and served with Epping Uniting Church from February 1995 to July 1996, where she remained a highly valued and much loved member.

Shirley took her second retirement in 1996 and moved to Thornleigh. She served for a brief time as supply minister at North Ryde Community Church during this period.

Shirley was involved with Eremos [a forum and support for individuals and communities to explore, express and deepen their spirituality within an Australian context] and she was involved in their retreats right up until 2014.

REV. MERLE PEARCE 22nd August 1931 – 10 February 2015

Leta Merle Pearce (nee Bootle) was born in 1931 near Dubbo; and died in 2015 in Epping). She was a 5th generation Australian born "first fleeter." Merle grew up and schooled in Dubbo.

At age 16 she attended Teachers' College in Armidale, graduating at 19 and her first teaching appointment was at Lithgow.

In 1957 she married Graham Pearce having met him the year before and together they had three children and five grandchildren. Merle resumed school teaching from 1967 to 1984.

Following her call into ministry she attended Theological College and was Ordained as a Minister of the Word in 1986. Her first placement was in Chatswood-Willoughby where she served from January 1986 to March 1991. This was followed by a call to Dubbo where she served from June 1993 to Dec 1996 and moved to Epping.

Merle took permanent retirement in December 1996 and retired to live in Epping. This was not, however, the end of her service. In her retirement she took on an Interim service with Lismore UC. In later years she was Acting Executive Director of the Board of Education as well as serving with Ministry Ethics training and related activities.

89 REV. PETER PEREIRA 7 January 1957 – 14 December 2014

On Sunday 14 December 2014 we received the news that our dear friend Peter Pereira died, held in the loving arms of his family – and is now in the loving arms of the God, in whose life Peter was truly grounded.

We delight in the ministry that Peter has shared with us – his wisdom, his graciousness, his courage.

Peter began his ministry in NSW in the Lower Blue Mountains serving from January 1994 to August 1998. This was followed by his time at Wentworthville (now Grantham Heights) from September 1998 to June 2004. From there, Peter moved to Blaxland and served from July 2004 to February 2008.

In March 2008 Peter became Wesley Mission Chaplaincy Coordinator until September 2012. He became Director of Mission UnitingCare in October 2011. We remember with deep love the way that Peter shared himself with us.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife Kathy and his family. I encourage you to hold them in your love.

On the Sunday that Peter died, the theme in my home congregation was “joy in the midst of despair”. We remembered that our faith is not a blind faith or a blinkered faith. It is real, because it is real in the hardest of situations. We were encouraged, with a quote from Morgan Freedman in the Bucket List: “find the joy in your life”.

We remember that Peter Pereira had, without doubt, found the joy in his life.

Grace and peace

Gordon Ramsay, Chairperson UnitingCare NSWACT

REV. DOREEN PROWSE 5th August 1931 to 26th May 2015

NSW: 1981-1984 Goulburn; 1984-1987 Lake Cargelligo; 1987-1996 Cabramatta; January 1996 Permanent Retirement.

REV. DAVID SACKETT 25TH August to 11th March 2016

NSW: 1948-1949 Coonabarabran; 1952-1953 Sutherland;1953-1954 Portland; 1954-1958 The Nambucca; 1958-1962 Deniliquin; 1963-1968 Blacktown; 1969-1974 Kiama; 1975-1981 Corrimal; 1981-1986 Broken Hill; 1986 Permanent Retirement.

REV. HENDRIK SMIT 4th March 1928 - 9th April 2015

Henk Smit was born in Leewarden – Holland and was ordained in the Methodist Church on 13th October 1963.

Henk has always had a strong pastoral and preaching ministry and has been much loved by the members of his congregations wherever he has ministered.

He first served at Robertson from 1960 - 1963, and then at Coolamon from 1964 – 1967, Corrimal 1968 – 1971, Crookwell 1972 – 1975, Cessnock from 1976 – 1980, Casino from 1981 - 1986, Nambucca River from January 1987 – June 1991.

During his active ministry Henk has always been a faithful servant , and always attending, first of all meetings of the Methodist District, and then Presbytery meetings in the Uniting Church, as well as the annual Methodist Conference and later Synod.

While in Coolamon, Henk served as Chairperson of the Methodist District, and also started Meals on Wheels at Ganmain, one of the towns in that area. In Cessnock, he was instrumental in the commencement of a School for Seniors.

Henk retired in June 1991. Firstly to Nambucca Heads for several years before moving to Newcastle where he was a member of the Shortland congregation. After many happy years at Shortland, Henk and Fay moved to live at Narla Village Retirement Facility at Belmont, firstly into the Self Care Units, and then later into the Hostel. For the whole of his time at Narla, Henk was actively involved in the life of the St. Luke’s – Belmont congregation.

Henk passed away on 9th April 2015, and a Service of Thanksgiving was held at St. Luke’s Uniting Church - Belmont on 13th April 2015.

He is survived by his wife Fay, now residing in Narla Nursing Home, and his daughters – Janine, Anne, Gwenda, Pamela and their families.

Well done good and faithful servant.

REV. PERRY SMITH 4th September 1926- 7th August 2015

Raymond Perry Smith was born on 4th September 1926 at Wibsey, in Bradford, England, and became a Christian at 15, and began to teach Sunday school. At 16 Perry started to preach and study for the local preachers’ exams, the beginning of a ministry of more than seventy years.

In 1944, at the age of 17, Perry volunteered to join the Sea Cadets, then enlisted in the Royal Navy nine months later. After training, he was sent all the way to Sydney to work in Stores at Warwick Farm and Moore Park. During this period Perry made many friends at the Central Methodist Mission and other churches, and was welcomed into many homes all over the city, before returning to Portsmouth with the Navy.

The British Methodist Conference accepted Perry’s candidacy in 1950 and sent Perry to Dorset, where he met Doreen Selby. Doreen and Perry were married following Perry’s Ordination in 1956 becoming partners in life and ministry, as well as parents to Wendy and Rachel.

In Perry’s first placements in the English midlands, parishioners noted the strong evangelistic emphasis of his preaching, his singing and the open home at the Manse, all of which continued throughout his ministries. He also had an enthusiastic commitment to chaplaincies in the armed forces and industry.

In 1965 Perry and Doreen and their family moved to Australia and were placed at the O’Connor Methodist Church in Canberra. This was followed by appointments at Five Dock and Drummoyne Methodist Churches in 1973 , then to Beecroft Uniting Church in 1981 , and finally with the Chaplaincy team at Concord Hospital in Sydney.

Despite formally retiring in 1989, Perry never stopped serving the wider church community and writing poems as well as articles for publications, including New Life. As he wanted, there were still preaching appointments in his diary when he died. During his retirement he undertook eight different supply ministries as well as being actively involved in his local congregation.

Perry passed away on 7th August 2015 and a service of Celebration of his life was held at St. Luke’s Uniting Church in Belmont on Saturday 15th August 2015.

Well done good and faithful servant.

92 REV. JOHN THOMPSON 14 June 1933 – 14 March 2015

John Thompson was born in Sydney on 14th June 1933. He was the only child of Austin and Helen Thompson. John’s father was a butcher in Five Dock. John went to school at Trinity Grammar and he remained there throughout Infants/Primary and Secondary. Trinity Grammar gave John a love for education and study. After leaving school he was accepted into the University of Sydney to study Theology and the Arts. It was while he was at University he met a young female student called Margaret, and they both shared a passion for learning. They both shared a desire to travel and see the world, and in those days, it was only proper that marriage happened before heading off around the world. John and Margaret married in 1964 in Roseville and they were soon off to Europe and many other exciting and far flung destinations.

Upon their return John entered into the Ministry. He commenced ministry in Kurri Kurri, then onto Goulburn, Blacktown, Seaforth, Gunnedah and upon his retirement he assisted at Rooty Hill Uniting Church. John was as a highly learned man of God and undertook further study in San Francisco, earning his Doctorate of Ministry as well as mastering the complex language of Hebrew.

Earlier in their marriage, John and Margaret decided to adopt two children, Craig in 1970 and Penny in 1974. The family homes were mainly church manses and they were always happy homes. They were places where people were respected, and they were a reflection of the relationship between John and Margaret. The home was also full of music. John was a warm and loving husband and father. Sadly, Margaret died 1994, and while the love of his life was gone, his relationship with his daughter Penny became closer and more engaging. John enjoyed the tennis and tolerated the Opera. His love for travel never diminished. And he loved the quiet and peaceful things of life, particularly the garden and he especially loved cricket.

John’s final years were dominated by his dementia. Yet, right to the end of his days, John loved and was loved.

John Thompson, rest in peace, good and faithful servant. Rev. David Riethmuller

REV. LAURENCE THOMPSON 20TH October 1941 to 16th April 2015

NSW; 1974-1976 Picton; 1981-1985 Quirindi; 1986-1998 North Parramatta; Windsor November 1999 – December 2006 Richmond; Permanently Retired January 2007.

93 REV. RAE TRENERRY 17 May 1946 - 10 March 2015

Rae was born Raelene Mary Plew on 17th May 1946 in Adelaide and passed away peacefully in her sleep at home in Toongabbie on 10th March 2015. Rae grew up in the West Mitcham Methodist Church (later Lower Mitcham Uniting) where she had many influential teachers and mentors through Christian Endeavour, Sunday School and Youth Group, then later Youth for Christ and the Adelaide YMCA. As a young adult she was active in leadership in many of these groups. She received strong influences from people of both the evangelical and charismatic persuasions.

Rae trained as an Infant Teacher with some university studies in Latin and Music, then taught in a few schools around Adelaide. In 1968 she married her high school sweetheart, Dennis Trenerry. They had two children (John and Helen) and moved to Broken Hill in 1972 because of Dennis's work with the University of NSW there. They attended various Methodist and Presbyterian Churches which then became the Uniting Church. Rae threw herself into church activities as well as community life including with the YMCA and Philharmonic Society. She studied 3 years of Geology at UNSW and did a Diploma in Gemmology. She also did some relief teaching at infant and high school level, where she taught Music and also English in which she had no formal training. A serious accident while teaching permanently damaged her lower back and left her disabled for some years.

In 1984 the family moved to Sydney when UNSW closed in Broken Hill and they became part of both Menai and Sutherland Uniting. Rae became an elder at Menai and decided to do some theological study to help her in that role. "Anywhere but UTC!" was her desire and prayer, but the Lord had other ideas, so she enrolled as a private student at UTC. Within one term, she realised that she was being called to ministry and candidated as a Minister of the Word. She enjoyed the student life, worship and study, becoming Senior Student in her final year. She rediscovered her passion for dancing at UTC and performed liturgical dance on a number of occasions. Her final student placement was at Dundas West, and after being ordained at the end of 1989 she became their Minister for 6 years. During that time she discovered her ecumenical side and preached and danced at a variety of churches. She became the Chair of the organising committee for the Heads of Churches of Western Sydney group. Other roles were as a member of the Boards of Newington College and Alan Walker College and various Synod committees and ecumenical groups.

After her time at Dundas West, Rae set up Peace of Christ Ministries to provide retreats, training and spiritual direction. She was inducted into this role by the Presbytery and remained under their oversight. She completed a Masters in Theology (in liturgy and worship) at UTC and kept in close touch with the staff. InterPlay also became a big part of her life and ministry at this time. In 2001 a part time settlement at Kurrajong Heights became available and Rae became their minister for over 6 years. She loved her time there and only finished due to declining health.

After retirement she became Minister in Association at North Rocks and took up further studies at UTC where she became a mentor to students and finally a Faculty Tutor. In 2005 she finally officially changed her name to the name she had been known by for years -

94 simply Rae Trenerry. Photography, art, craft, writing liturgies and prayers and so on had become a passion and she spent much of her final years on this. Two books of collects/prayers/psalms went to the printer shortly before she died and more of her resources may be published posthumously. She also produced two books of travel photos with accompanying poems inspired by her caravan travels with Dennis.

Rae's gifts in teaching, leading worship, providing visuals, spiritual direction and mentoring are missed by many. Her ashes now rest in the columbarium at St David’s, Kurrajong Heights where her epitaph is appropriately: "She touched many hearts".

REV. LLOYD ARTHUR VIDLER 29th July, 1932 – 22nd April, 2015

Ordained in the Methodist Church October 1959, the Reverend Lloyd Vidler was a man of deep faith and commitments. Ordained a minister in the Methodist Church in 1959, Lloyd exercised faithful ministry in parishes from the Brunswick to West Wollongong to Adamstown, Campbelltown to his final placement before retirement as Presbytery Minister of Mitchell Presbytery in the Victorian Synod. Along with his wife Una, Lloyd also engaged with ministries beyond the Uniting Church like the International Rural Ministry Association which took him to conferences at home and abroad and created relational links with colleagues across the world. In 2005 he led a consultancy for the United Reformed Church (UK) in parts of Wales, helping them to reflect on mission in a 21st Century context. After retirement he continued to offer of himself in supply roles at Bowral and elsewhere. His ministry was always warmly received and his wisdom valued.

Like many ministers of his generation Lloyd was quite a character, with a wry sense of humour, quick wit, and a strong personality. Yet there was an underlying humility in his outlook which was reflected both in his preaching and in his pastoring. Lloyd was a pastor in the true sense of the word, believing himself called to be with the people of God as a shepherd. He would take time with where other ministers might brush them off as insignificant, believing that the sheer taking of time said something profound about the love of God for all people. He loved to sing his faith and would often remind our congregation at Bowral that we should be giving thanks to God for the joys of life as well as praying over the sorrows. He was preaching and sharing in the life of the congregation right up to the day he died. His death came suddenly one cool Autumn morning, I had been sharing conversation and coffee with him just the day before and as ever he had been in good spirits. He loved his family, and his church family, and was never far from either of them.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Una, companion and friend of well over fifty years, his three children Richard, Bronwyn, & Heather, and their families, and a growing list of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is remembered fondly by his family of faith at Bowral/Kangaloon Uniting Church and many others across the wider Uniting Church, and missed by all, especially the incumbent minister. He is now gathered with the saints of God and we give thanks for a life and faith well lived in the service of our Lord.

‘The Lord’s my shepherd, I shall not want.’

‘He put his hand to the plough and did not turn back.’

Rev Michael Earl, Bowral/Kangaloon Uniting Church

Ref: 0135:MP:RT

16 April 2016

Dear Ann,

In 2008 the Synod Minute of Appreciation acknowledged that for 23 years until 2007 you were in placement as senior policy analyst with UnitingCare. You were the Synod's voice for social justice, fearlessly advocating for just social and economic policies in the light of the Gospel. Ann you helped craft a unique place for the Uniting Church within the ecumenical movement and the broader Australian community and you supported, nurtured and encouraged a generation of Uniting Church justice staff around the country.

The 2008 Synod meeting ordered an independent investigation into the processes that had led to the termination of Ann’s placement and in 2011 the independent panel reported that she had not been treated in accordance with the polity, policies and ethical principles of the church. They identified decisions which were without basis, arbitrary changes in procedures, a lack of procedural fairness, potential conflicts of interest and processes which were flawed.

I am confident to say that we have taken these points seriously. In addition we have established the Governance, Nominations and Remunerations Committee (GNRC) to assist with and ensure best practice in the Synod, its Boards and committees.

Words cannot express how truly sorry we, the Synod of NSW & ACT, are for the anxiety, frustration, deep pain and ill health that you have experienced since 2005.

As a church we seek to act with fairness, justice and compassion. However we know that we have failed you and in doing so failed ourselves.

We have failed you when Synod boards, committees and officers, led processes that did not adhere to the polity, policies and ethical principles of the Uniting Church.

We have failed you by not recording in the minutes of the 2011 Synod the reception of the Report of the Independent Panel and acknowledgement of its findings.

We have failed you in our untimely implementation of the 2011 Synod resolutions responding to the Independent Panel’s Report and its recommendations.

For our failings we are sorry.

We acknowledge that your health, academic and professional reputation has been damaged and that you have been prevented from exercising your ministry with all its gifts and graces, in both the church and the wider community. We are sorry for the way this has also limited you in answering God’s call.

Again, I apologise that we through our leaders and process, we as a synod failed you. We are deeply sorry for the pain we have caused and regret the psychological and spiritual suffering you have experienced.

We are truly sorry.

You deserved better—a lot better...and we let you down.

We are sorry and ask for your forgiveness.

Ann, the work of the Uniting Church in this synod has been weakened without your gifts contributing to our life. I am exploring ways in which there might be an opportunity for you to contribute your ministry, research and wisdom to our understanding of social justice issues within the Australian community as a mentor and advisor to me, during the remainder of my term as Moderator. I hope you will work with me to explore that possibility.

Grace and Peace

Myung Hwa Park (Rev) Moderator

97 AASAPpp

STATEMENT

(Circulated to all Synod Committees, Korean Presbytery, UTC Faculty and associated groups listed at the end of this email.)

On the 6th of December 2014 , the Synod Standing Committee received a report from the President of the Assembly, Rev. Professor Andrew Dutney on progress towards implementing the determination of the Appeal Panel that the Revd. Dr. Clive Pearson be “reinstated as Principal or be inducted into an equivalent position".

The Revd. Dr. Clive Pearson has agreed to take up a research position with the Public and Contextual Theological Research Centre of Charles Sturt University which will be held in association with a ministerial placement with the National Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia. The Placement will be funded by the Synod of New South Wales and the ACT and concluded on 31 December 2017.

The Synod acknowledges the cost of this extended process which has taken a heavy toll on the Revd. Dr. Clive Pearson and his family.

Grace and peace,

Rev Myung Hwa Park Moderator

98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 APPENDIX H

Interim Redress Policy

Title: Interim Redress Policy Creation Date: Version: V1 Last Revised Approved by: Synod Approval date: 18 April 2016

109

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Explanatory Note ...... 3

2. Overview ...... 3

3. Overarching Principles ...... 5

4. Direct Personal Response ...... 6

5. Counselling & Psychological Care ...... 7

6. Monetary Payments …………………………………………………………………………….7

7. Uniform Process ………………………………………………………………………………...8

8. Feedback, Review and Life of Interim Policy ………………………………………………..11

9. Glossary …………………………………………………………………………………………12

110 1. EXPLANATORY NOTE

1.1 Unless specific reference is made in the text or the footnotes, this Interim Redress Policy reflects the most significant suggestions made:

• By the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (the Royal Commission) in its Consultation Paper on Redress and Civil Litigation released 30 January 2015 (the RC CP); and/or

• In the submission of the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA) National Assembly to the Royal Commission in February 2015 in response to the RC CP (the UCA Sub); and/or

• In the recommendations of the Royal Commission in its Final Report on Redress and Civil Litigation published in September 2015 (RC Sep Report); 1.2 This Policy also takes into account the:

• Development by the UCA Assembly Standing Committee of a National Framework in relation to redress in November 2015;

• Synod’s recent experiences of dealing with applications for redress on an interim basis;

• Feedback from Synod Institutions regarding interim redress; and

• Commonwealth Government’s announcement on 29 January 2016 that it would lead the development of a national approach to redress for victims of institutional child sexual abuse.

2. OVERVIEW

2.1 Our Commitment

2.1.1 The Uniting Church in Australia Synod of NSW & ACT (the Synod) and the Synod Institutions, (we/us/our) are committed to doing all that we can to provide fair, consistent and compassionate redress for past child sexual abuse committed towards children in our care.

2.1.2 We recognise that some children, during their contact with us, did not receive the love, nurture and care that they rightly deserved. We will say ‘sorry’ to anyone who was abused when in our care and, in consultation with those so affected, actively seek for ways to make amends for what happened in the past and identify how we can best offer support into the future.1

2.1.3 We acknowledge that on some occasions our past support for survivors of abuse has been inconsistent and incomplete. We regret the anger, distress and frustration this has caused some survivors. We are committed to an effective redress policy which treats all survivors with dignity, fairness and respect for their individual needs.

2.1.4 Terms used in this document are defined in the Glossary.

1 Statement by UCA National Assembly March 2013; UCA Response to RC Redress Schemes Issues Paper no. 6 at page 2 para 2

111 2.2 Our Aims

2.2.1 Through implementation of this Interim Redress Policy, we aim to:

• Acknowledge our responsibility for past wrongs; • Help those who have suffered to heal and lead a productive and fulfilled life; • Where desired by the survivor, re-engage with the survivor; and • Ensure a compassionate and consistent response across the Synod.

2.3 Coverage

2.3.1 This Interim Redress Policy applies to those adults and children who experienced sexual abuse as a child in an institutional context while in the care of the Synod, through its Institutions, and the abuse occurred, or the first incidence of the abuse occurred, before the Cut-off Date.

2.3.2 A Past Recipient of Redress may apply for redress under this Interim Redress Policy as follows:

• In the form of a personal response (see paragraph 2.4.1(a) below); and • In the form of counselling/psychological care (see paragraph 2.4.1 (b) below) on an emergency basis if he/she has no other access to counselling that is clinically required.

2.3.3 A Past Recipient of Redress may not apply under this Interim Redress Policy for redress in the form of 2.4.1(c) below (a monetary payment).

2.3.4 Instead, a Past Recipient of Redress should make their application for a monetary payment (should they wish to) under the Governmental-run Redress Scheme

2.4 Available Redress

2.4.1 The redress we offer has the three components described in (a) (b) and (c) below. The principles underlying each component are stated below.

(a) A personal response to the survivor from the relevant part of the Synod/Synod Institution;

(b) Guaranteed funding, when needed, for counselling and psychological care, for the survivor;

2.4.2 We support the rights of survivors to retain control of how they deal with the harms they experience. We recognise that some survivors may wish to obtain a monetary payment that compensates them for the harm that that have suffered. As the money sum available under this Interim Redress Policy is not compensatory in nature, a more appropriate avenue for those survivors may be to pursue a Civil Litigation Claim.

112

2.4.3 If survivors wish to pursue a Civil Litigation Claim (defined in the Glossary), that is their choice. At any time up to the signing of a Deed of Release, a survivor/applicant has the option of discontinuing their application for redress under this Interim Redress Policy and choosing to commence a Civil Litigation Claim. However, in order to maintain the efficiency of the court and redress systems, and the effective targeting of funding, a survivor/applicant can access this Interim Redress Policy, or the civil litigation system for a monetary payment, but not both at the same time.

2.4.4 If a survivor/applicant makes an application for redress in the form of a monetary payment under this Interim Redress Policy and subsequently commences a Civil Litigation Claim, the processing of their redress application will cease. However a prior unsuccessful Civil Litigation Claim does not prevent a survivor making a subsequent application for redress under this Interim Redress Policy.

2.4.5 Those applying for redress (referred to as “survivors” or “Applicants”) will be given equal access to redress and equal treatment, regardless of the Synod Institution in which the abuse took place.

3. OVERARCHING PRINCIPLES

3.1 In responding to applications under this Interim Redress Policy, we will:2

3.1.1 Ensure access to redress with minimal difficulty and cost and with appropriate support and facilitation where this is needed. Applicants may engage with this Interim Redress Policy in a manner of their own choosing. This may be verbal, written or on-line. Access to redress under this Interim Redress Policy will not be denied because the method of approach is deemed to be wrong;

3.1.2 Be focused on the needs of the Applicant;

3.1.3 Offer, assess and provide redress having appropriate regard to what is known about the nature and impact of child sexual abuse, at the hands of institutions, and the cultural needs of Applicants;

3.1.4 Ensure that all those involved in interaction with Applicants and making decisions affecting Applicants have a proper understanding of these issues and relevant training; and

3.1.5 Offer, assess and provide redress having appropriate regard to the needs of Applicants, particularly vulnerable Applicants who will be offered appropriate support, including costs of travel or other expenses if needed.

2 This section is based on the RC’s statement of the general principles that should guide the provision of all elements of redress: RC CP p.9.

113 4. DIRECT PERSONAL RESPONSE

4.1 We support the following principles for an effective direct personal response:

4.1.1 Re-engagement with a survivor will only occur to the extent that a survivor desires it: where re-engagement is desired, we will offer and provide support to a survivor;

4.1.2 We will offer and provide on request by a survivor:

(a) a meaningful and genuine apology which is appropriate to the particular survivor and demonstrates a genuine understanding of the survivor’s experience: such an apology will be provided verbally and in writing if desired;3

(b) an opportunity to meet with a senior representative or representatives of the relevant Synod Institution and/or the Synod at a venue nominated by or agreed with the survivor;

(d) access to relevant records of a survivor; and

(e) other support as may be available through the Synod.

4.1.3 We will be responsive to a survivor’s needs, acknowledging that there is no “one size fits all” and that redress provided must be appropriate to the harm suffered and its impact on the survivor;

4.1.4 We will encourage survivors to engage a Support Person (defined in the Glossary) to assist them throughout the redress process. We will facilitate referrals to agencies which provide appropriately qualified Support Persons;

4.1.5 We acknowledge that many survivors struggle to advocate for their own needs and that the support provided by survivor groups is important in ensuring that survivors are able to access redress;

4.1.6 We will ensure that direct personal responses are delivered by people who have received training about the nature and impact of child sexual abuse and the needs of survivors, including cultural awareness and sensitivity training where relevant. All those engaged to handle or determine redress claims will be appropriately trained in understanding child sexual abuse and its impacts and any relevant cultural awareness issues;

4.1.7 We welcome feedback4 from survivors about the direct personal response we offer and provide. We will take that feedback into account in our ongoing review of this Interim Redress Policy during its implementation.

3 RC CP pp. 83-89

4 See Section 8.1.2 of this Interim Policy

114 5. COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CARE

5.1 We will assist survivors to gain access to suitable public counselling services and will fund survivors’ access to appropriate counselling services, where public services are inadequate or not available. We will not directly provide counselling services.5 Applicants’ needs for ongoing counselling and psychological care will be assessed by the Redress Panel (see Glossary for definition). The only exception to this is that senior personnel of the local Synod Institution may, in their discretion, authorise funding for provision of interim counselling to an Applicant seeking such redress, while the application for redress is being processed.

5.2 We support the following principles for counselling and psychological care for survivors:

5.2.1 Flexibility and choice in relation to the type of service and the service provider;

5.2.2 Counselling and relevant activities, including peer group support programs, that assist them in their life, should be available throughout a survivor’s life, particular to their needs at the time;

5.2.3 Counselling should be available on an episodic basis;

5.2.4 No fixed limits will be placed on services provided to a survivor: there will be a process of initial assessment and ongoing review for each episode of counselling;

5.2.5 Psychological care will be provided by practitioners with the right qualifications and capabilities to work with complex trauma clients.6

6. MONETARY PAYMENTS

6.1 A monetary payment under this Interim Redress Policy is a tangible recognition of the seriousness of the hurt and injury suffered by a survivor. We are committed to a uniform, fair method for assessment of all applications for redress. As with all decisions about redress offered under this Interim Redress Policy, decisions about monetary payments will be made by the Redress Panel.

6.2 To assess the amount of a payment, the Redress Panel applies a matrix of the kind recommended by the Royal Commission. The matrix takes into account:

6.2.1 Severity of abuse, 6.2.2 Severity of impact of abuse (which is further explained in the Glossary), and 6.2.3 Additional elements.

6.3 'Additional elements' could include:

6.3.1 Whether the Applicant was in state care at the time of the abuse, that is, as a ward of the state or under the guardianship of the relevant Minister or government agency

6.3.2 Whether the Applicant experienced other forms of abuse in conjunction with the sexual abuse, including physical, emotional, spiritual or cultural abuse or neglect

5 RC CP pp. 14, 193 6 Practitioners funded by the Synod to provide counselling and/or psychological care will be members of one of the following registered associations: the Australian Association of Social Workers; the Australian Psychological Society; the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.

115 6.3.3 Whether the Applicant was in a 'closed' institution or without the support of family or friends at the time of the abuse

6.3.4 Whether the Applicant was particularly vulnerable to abuse because of his or her disability

6.4 We recognize that the method of assessment adopted, must not impose on the Applicant an analysis of their experience at a level of detail that has the potential to re- traumatise them.

6.5 No minimum monetary payment level has been set. The maximum payment has been capped at $100,000.00. At the request of a survivor, a payment may be made by instalments over a fixed period.

6.6 If a survivor dies after submitting an application for redress, the application will not be further considered.

6.7 If the Cut Off Date occurs after submission of an application for redress but before a determination is made, the Applicant may choose to continue their application to finality or to transfer their application to the Government-run Redress Scheme.

7. UNIFORM PROCESS

7.1 Decision-Making

7.1.1 All decisions about the redress offered to survivors will be made by the Redress Panel.7 In making those decisions the Redress Panel will take into account the wishes and needs of survivors.

7.1.2 All decisions about whether the standard of proof has been met and about the nature of the redress to be offered, will be made by the Redress Panel. The only exception to this is that senior personnel of the local Synod Institution may, in their discretion, authorise funding for the provision of interim counselling to an Applicant seeking such redress, while the application for redress is being processed.

7.1.3 The Redress Panel will apply the same assessment matrix to all claims for monetary payment under this Interim Redress Policy. The Redress Panel will record its decision and the basis of it, and, where satisfied to the requisite standard of proof, will make a formal offer of redress to an Applicant. The offer of redress will be open for twelve months from the date of decision by the Redress Panel, unless an Applicant commences a Civil Litigation Claim, in which case the offer of redress will lapse on the date of commencement of those proceedings.

7.1.4 For the purpose of enabling an Applicant to obtain financial advice in respect of an offer of redress, the Synod will fund one session for the Applicant with a financial counsellor.

7.1.5 The Redress Panel will not make any findings that any alleged abuser was involved in any abuse. The Redress Panel may defer determining an application for redress if the Synod advises that it is undertaking internal disciplinary processes in respect of the abuse which is the subject of the application for redress or if the Synod advises that this would interfere with an active police investigation. The Redress Panel may consider the outcome of the disciplinary process, in determining the application.

7 See Glossary for definition.

116

7.2 Consistency and Central Co-ordination

7.2.1 This Interim Redress Policy is implemented via a uniform process, to ensure its consistent application across the Synod/Synod Institutions. Irrespective of how an application under this Interim Redress Policy is made, or the Synod Institution to which it relates, the same criteria for eligibility, the same redress options, the same standard of proof and the same criteria for assessment of redress by the Redress Panel, will apply.

7.2.2 A central co-ordinator appointed by the Synod will manage all applications made under this Interim Redress Policy and will maintain a central database of applications. As such, the Synod Institution which receives an application for redress will forward that to the central co-ordinator immediately on its receipt. The central co-ordinator will monitor the progress of all applications received and will be the central point through which all applications are submitted to the Redress Panel.

7.2.3 The central co-ordinator will check that the information provided with an application enables the Redress Panel to make an informed decision in relation to each application. Where the information provided with an application does not enable the Redress Panel to make an informed decision, the Synod/Synod Institution relevant to the application will provide the central co- ordinator with specific further information in a designated timeframe. When the additional information is provided, the application will be submitted to the Redress Panel.

7.3 Eligibility

7.3.1 This Interim Redress Policy offers redress where we exercised responsibility for the setting in which abuse occurred. We accept that we must take responsibility to make children as safe as possible in these settings. However, there must be a relevant connection between the Applicant and us, before redress is appropriate. The term “child sexual abuse in an institutional context” is defined in the Glossary. It will guide the Redress Panel when assessing eligibility for redress.8

7.3.2 An Applicant may be legally represented during the redress process, if they wish, and may bring a lawyer (or any other Support Person) to any meetings with the Synod. Where an Applicant’s lawyer attends a meeting, a lawyer from the Synod will also attend. The Synod will not meet any legal expenses of a survivor, apart from reasonable legal expenses for the purpose of an Applicant seeking legal advice in relation to a Deed of Release. The purpose of a Deed of Release is explained below.

7.3.3 A parent or guardian of a child may seek redress on behalf of a child.9 A child may seek redress in relation to Abuse inflicted by another child.

7.3.4 Applicants for redress will be required to verify their application by statutory declaration.

8 Definitions of “abuse in an institutional context” and “child sexual abuse” are stated in the RC’s Terms of Reference and its Final Report in Recommendation #45. 9 RC CP p.62

117 7.4 Local Accountability for Direct Personal Response 7.4.1 Where an Applicant seeks redress in the form of a direct personal response from a particular Synod Institution or specific part of the Synod, that particular Synod Institution will be responsible for delivering that direct personal response. If desired, senior representatives of the Synod Institution will meet with the Applicant, listen to their account, apologise and acknowledge responsibility for the past actions of that Synod Institution.

7.4.2 If desired, a senior representative will sign a personal apology on behalf of the Synod Institution, in a form which is meaningful to the Applicant.

7.5 Qualified Case Worker as Liaison Person 7.5.1 An Applicant will have access to a suitably qualified case worker who will be a constant liaison person for the Applicant, throughout the redress process. The case worker will respond to inquiries about redress, and assist Applicants to access their records, make an application for redress, and access a Support Person (if desired).

7.5.2 The case worker will not make any decisions as to the redress to be offered to an Applicant.

7.6 Local Information Gathering

7.6.1 Each part of the Synod/Synod Institution will designate nominated contact persons to gather relevant information about the application for redress and to compile a summary reflecting the available information and assess whether further information needs to be obtained before the central co-ordinator can submit the application to the Redress Panel for decision.

7.7 Standard of Proof 7.7.1 Reasonable likelihood will be the standard of proof applied by the Redress Panel when determining applications under this Interim Redress Policy.10

7.8 Deed of Release & Legal Advice on Deed 7.8.1 When a formal offer of redress is made under this Interim Redress Policy, the Applicant will be requested to sign a Deed of Release as a pre-requisite to receiving a monetary payment. By signing the Deed, the Applicant will waive the right to pursue a Civil Litigation Claim against the Synod/Synod Institution(s) in respect of the abuse that resulted in the payment.

7.8.2 However, by signing the Deed, the Applicant will not waive the right to subsequently apply for redress under the Government-run Redress Scheme.

7.8.3 Should an Applicant succeed in being awarded a further monetary payment under the Government-run Redress Scheme, any monetary payment received under this Interim Redress Policy will be taken into account, and offset against any determination made under the Government-run Redress Scheme if required by that Scheme.

7.8.4 We will fund the reasonable legal expenses incurred by an Applicant in obtaining independent legal advice about the Deed.

10 The RC has recommended that a standard of proof of reasonable likelihood be used to determine applications for redress: Rec.#57 on p.41..

118

7.8.5 The Deed will not require confidentiality on the part of the Applicant, except in relation to the quantum of the monetary sum of redress stated therein. If the Applicant desires the insertion of a further confidentiality clause, this will be done.

7.9 Requests for Re-consideration of Redress Panel Decisions 7.9.1 If an Applicant is dissatisfied with the Redress Panel’s offer of redress, an Applicant may make a request for reconsideration of the offer. The Applicant should identify any new or additional information that he/she wishes to be considered.

7.10 Reporting of Criminal Offences 7.10.1 The case worker or another redress policy staff member will report to police any allegations, where required by law, and/or where they have reason to believe that there may be a current risk to children. If the relevant survivor does not consent to the allegations being reported in these circumstances, staff will report the allegations to the police without disclosing the survivor’s identity, unless it is necessary to disclose the survivor’s identity to comply with the mandatory legal requirements. The survivor will be formally advised of the action taken and the current position.

7.11 Record-keeping

7.11.1 Each Synod/Synod Institution is responsible for registering and maintaining an up-to-date electronic and hard copy file relating to each application for redress received. Access to the file will be limited to appropriate personnel who have a need for such access.

7.11.2 The Synod’s central co-ordinator and the Synod’s Insurance Services within Uniting Resources, will be formally notified of every application for redress received. The Synod’s central co-ordinator will be given access to all electronic files and will scan and attach to the relevant file, records reflecting the work of the Redress Panel.

8. FEEDBACK, REVIEW & LIFE OF INTERIM POLICY

8.1 This Interim Redress Policy will operate until the Cut-Off Date11.

8.2 In the meantime:

8.2.1 We welcome any feedback or complaints from survivors, applicants and others involved in this Interim Redress Policy. Please send your feedback or complaint to: [title of officer and email and postal address.] We will use this information to improve our service, policies and processes.

8.2.2 We will review this Interim Redress Policy on an ongoing basis, taking into account the feedback received from survivors, Applicants and others, to reflect the insights gained during its implementation.

11 See Glossary for definition

119 9. GLOSSARY

9.1 “Abuse” means child sexual abuse.

9.2 “Abuse in an institutional context” means child sexual abuse that happens in the following circumstances:

(a) It happens on the premises of an institution (except where the institution merely makes premises available through leasing or licensing arrangements or similar arrangements); or where activities of an institution take place; or in connection with the activities of an institution; in circumstances where the institution is, or should be treated as being, responsible for the contact between the abuser and the applicant that resulted in the abuse being committed; or

(b) It is engaged in by an employee, volunteer or lay leader of an institution in circumstances (including circumstances involving settings not directly controlled by the institution), where the institution has, or its activities have, created, facilitated, increased or, in a significant way, contributed to (whether by act or omission), the risk of abuse or the circumstances or conditions giving rise to that risk; or

(c) It happens in any other circumstances where the institution is, or should be treated as being, responsible for the abuser having contact with the Applicant.

9.3 “Child” means: a human being below the age of 18 years unless, under the law applicable to the child, majority is attained earlier.*

9.4 “Child sexual abuse” means: any act which exposes a child to, or involves a child in, sexual processes beyond his or her understanding or contrary to accepted community standards. Sexually abusive behaviours can include the fondling of genitals, masturbation, oral sex, vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, finger or other object, fondling of breasts, voyeurism, exhibitionism, and exposing the child to or involving the child in pornography. It includes child grooming, which refers to actions deliberately undertaken with the aim of befriending and establishing an emotional connection with a child to lower the child’s inhibitions in preparation for sexual activity with a child.*

9.5 “Childhood” means: the period that concludes on the 18th birthday of a child.

9.6 “Civil Litigation Claim” means a legal claim for compensatory damages in the civil courts.

9.7 “Cut Off Date” means the date on which the Government-run Redress Scheme commences.

9.8 “Impact of abuse” means: the impact of the abuse on the survivor, which will be assessed taking into account that the impact varies widely between survivors in both degree and composition, and that impacts generally fall into three main areas: intra personal problems such as compromised sense of self-worth, deep feelings of guilt and responsibility for the assault; relational impairments including impaired relationships, trust and intimacy difficulties; and disturbances such as depression, anxiety, anger and post- traumatic stress. 12

12 This definition takes into account the RC’s Final Recommendations, especially Rec. #16 and RC’s comments at pp.235-238 of its Final Report.

120 9.9 “Institution” means: a public or private body, agency, association, club, institution, organisation or other entity or group of entities of any kind (whether incorporated or unincorporated) and however described, and includes for example an entity or group of entities (including an entity or group of entities that no longer exists) that provides or has provided, activities, facilities, programs or services of any kind that provides the means through which adults have contact with children, including through their families; but does not include the family.*

9.10 “Past Recipient of Redress” means a survivor who has previously received a payment under other redress schemes/policies, under victims’ compensation schemes, or as a result of civil litigation claim(s) or negotiated settlements.

9.11 “Redress Panel” means a panel of relevant experts, such as those with legal, medical and/or psychosocial skills, including experience in issues relating to institutional child abuse, appointed by the Synod.

9.12 “Royal Commission” means the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse established by Letters Patent issued by the Commonwealth of Australia on 11 January 2013.

9.13 “Support Person” means a person chosen by the survivor who will provide emotional support and/or personal assistance to the survivor while the survivor is seeking redress under this scheme. The type of emotional support and/or personal assistance provided may include: assisting the survivor to complete the application for redress; accompanying the survivor to meetings with the case worker or to meetings with representatives of the Synod/Synod Institutions; accompanying the survivor to a police station if the survivor wishes to make a report of a criminal offence to the police; accompanying the survivor to an interview if the survivor is interviewed by an investigator. The Support Person does not represent the survivor and does not advocate or speak on behalf of the survivor and does not answer questions on behalf of a survivor.

9.14 “Synod” means the Uniting Church in Australia Synod of NSW and the ACT.

9.15“Synod Institutions” means anybody or entity whether incorporated or unincorporated established by or on behalf of the Church or any of the uniting churches or in which the Church participates for a religious, educational, charitable, commercial or other purpose. It includes Synod Schools. It does not include entities for which Uniting and Wesley Mission have taken responsibility and covered by their own Interim Redress Policy.

9.16 “Synod Schools” means: the Schools constituted under the Synod in NSW and the ACT including but not limited to: Kinross Wolaroi School, Knox Grammar School, MLC School, Pymble Ladies’ College, Ravenswood School for Girls, Wahroonga Preparatory School.

Endorsed by the Synod on 18 April 2016

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