The power of Street art project in Dealing with Bushfire vigils and The labyrinth: a intergenerational Bendigo Diocese bushfire trauma relief efforts multifaith tradition reading page 3 page 3 page 5 page 9 page 10 TheAnglican Gippsland Volume 117, Number 1, February 2020 Published in Gippsland Diocese since 1904

sick leave at the time, had been previously evacuated along with most of the people there. Generous response as Nineteen houses were lost at Sarsfield and at least 24 at Buchan. Two of the houses destroyed there, close to fire crisis continues Bairnsdale, belonged to Bairnsdale parishioners. Jan Down on the beach at Retired priests Laurie Mallacoota a Baker (former rector of Tambo rayers, practical help and few days after parish) and Jim Reeves have pastoral care are flowing the fire there been providing pastoral Pthrough Gippsland, as (reported by care and locum ministry in the fire crisis continues. eternitynews. Philip’s absence since the At the time of writing, five com.au on 6 fires, and Bishop Richard lives have been lost in the January). The visited these areas with Laurie region, hundreds of houses and Ven Brenda and his wife Heather after farms have been destroyed, Burney, rector morning services in Metung and millions of birds and at Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance on animals have died. and Archdeacon 12 January. Bishop Richard Treloar, in of the Eastern In Orbost, the Rev’d Bevil a pastoral letter to the Diocese Region, offered and Barbara Lunson spent a on 5 January, wrote, “Our a time of prayer night sitting on their verandah, hearts and hands go out to the at the church hoses in hands, watching out for people of the eastern region on the evening flying embers. in your grief and loss, as you of New Year’s A relief centre was set up seek to come to terms with Day, which at Orbost in the Anglican the trauma you have faced over 50 people Photo: Andy Benton church hall. “We’re here nine and the devastation caused attended, Bishop Richard with the Rev'd Jude Benton during his visit to Mallacoota to five each day,” Bevil said. to lives and livelihoods, to despite only “Truckload after truckload” property, stock, towns, and to short notice via social media. At Mallacoota, Jude and prayers and support. of water and food had been the creation itself.” Many gathered for a vigil at her husband, Andy, decided A much appreciated boost arriving, he reported, and was Bishop Richard paid tribute St Paul’s Cathedral in Sale, to stay. They and their cat to morale came when Bishop being distributed. to the work of emergency and the people of Maffra spent the night before the fire Richard Treloar dropped in Bairnsdale, being the services, the CFA and all who gathered for a time of prayer in a boat – one of about 35 – (quite literally, by RAAF safest, nearest town to the have worked to keep people (see p. 5). out on the lake. Spartan aircraft, pictured) to fires, has had the main relief safe, as well as clergy and lay Before the worst of the One parishioner, Fred see Jude and Andy and retired centre. Brenda has been

people responding to needs fires, many thousands of Becker, died in the town of priest Roger Jackman. Bishop billeting VCC emergency since the fires. He committed people evacuated from east Genoa. Jude said the Becker Richard commented, “I am chaplains, managing the the Diocese to a sustained Gippsland. The Rev’d Thelma family was the backbone of so grateful to the RAAF for distribution of donated relief effort. Langshaw, her two daughters both the Genoa congregation making it possible to spend goods, doing shifts at the The generosity of people and many townspeople were and community. some time with Jude and her relief centre and generally from across the state and well airlifted out of Omeo. People Dozens of houses were team in Mallacoota. There responding to needs. beyond has been tremendous. from Lake Tyers beach, destroyed in Mallacoota, but were some confronting scenes, People cope less and less with Enough goods have been including the Rev’d Phyllis the church buildings there and and it was inspiring to speak an ongoing crisis, Brenda said, received, clergy are saying, Andy, were evacuated, and in Cann River were safe. with locals and volunteers because it is re-traumatising. and the real need now is for two-thirds of the Lake Tyers Speaking to TGA only a from elsewhere who had She is grateful to Samaritan’s funds to help people rebuild Trust population also left. week after the fire there, Jude responded to the emergency Purse, who will provide a their lives. About 25,000 people left was very concerned for her with great courage, resilience Hope in Crisis seminar, and The Victorian Council of Lakes Entrance and Metung, scattered flock, three-quarters and generosity of spirit. Jude, has had a team there helping Churches (VCC) emergency which were inundated by of whom were displaced Andy, Roger and so many to clean up properties after the chaplains have been on hand at smoke. The core Lakes and families separated. She of our clergy and people in fires. Anglican clergy have relief centres to listen to people Entrance congregation stayed, particularly wanted to thank the east and right across the been involved in planning for and assist them in finding the responding to many local those clergy who were offering Diocese are doing an amazing and leading ecumenical help they need. needs. Philip Muston, rector the pastoral care she couldn’t, job in challenging conditions, services, providing important Churches have held prayer at Lakes Entrance, did with the road still closed and and will need our support for opportunities for communities services and vigils (see p. 5). chaplaincy shifts at the relief communications limited. Jude the long road ahead.” to come together, share stories, The Rev’d Jude Benton held centre and at the command was very thankful to all the In Buchan, the rector, Philip reflect and be strengthened a service of prayer and lament centre in Bairnsdale. people who sent messages of Kissick, who was already on in hope.

www.gippsanglican.org.au From the Bishop TGA Around rural Victoria

Index blessed are you – Together we stand East Gippsland From the Bishop 2 hank you to readers Gippsland but right around blessed are you of TGA who have so the country. who walk the scorching Prayer Diary 2 Tgenerously and readily Churches too have been beaches supported the Diocese in working together within and shelter in the ocean brushing burning embers Around rural Victoria 3 seeking to respond to the and between Christian bushires that ravaged east denominations in a spirit of God beside you Gippsland on the cusp of this collaboration and the open Around the Diocese 4–8 new year. sharing of human and other blessed are you Your prayers have sustained resources, alongside those of Bishop Richard Treloar who weep with grief us, your donations have helped other religious traditions. and sorrow Across the ages: 9 and bear an ashen image those most directly affected On the Australia Day As we emerge from the of a life of green and growing The power of the to access much-needed weekend, notwithstanding great, albeit in our setting God beside you curious question pastoral care, and your tragic losses to life and the rather solemnly freighted, partnership with us has devastation of property and seasons of Chrismas and blessed are you Ecumenical and 10 enabled our faith-communities habitat across the ecosystem, Epiphany, we have been who face the firestorm’s fury interfaith: Walking in the thick of the crisis to some of those characteristics comforted by the theme and volunteer for danger the labyrinth continue doing what they do often associated with of divine solidarity in the companions in the battle best: being a visible focus of Australian culture and Word made flesh – God’s God beside you divine compassion, offering values were acknowledged partnership with us in the one Editorial 10 physical spaces and liturgical as contributing to the shared revealed as the light of the blessed are you structure for gathering and relief effort. nations, in whose belovedness who work to bring together

processing grief, loss and Such reflections must by grace we share. the rallied deeds of angels Reflection: 11 anxiety, and equipping God’s also take proper account Such is the theme of a and shape a place of respite Bushfire lament people for their ministry as of the longstanding pre- benediction written on a very God beside you bearers of light and hope existent culture and venerable difficult New Year’s Day by Coming up 12 where there is darkness spiritulity of our First Nation our Uniting Church colleague, blessed are you and despair. peoples, and of the impact Rev Jennie Gordon. As we who set a bowl of water In times of crisis we are of natural disasters and the continue to work with our in the wilderness of burning reminded of the strength way they are collectively ecumenical partners – locally to care for little creatures GIPPSLAND DIOCESE to be found in standing processed on Indigenous and at the level of peak bodies God beside you together. Partnerships that we communities, cognisant of the – towards sustaining effective VACANCIES blessed are you can sometimes take for unique, evolving and abiding ministry in remote bushfire who wait with calm and Mirboo North granted are foregrounded, relationship Aboriginal and affected areas, Jennie’s poetry coping and our differences recede Torres Strait Islander peoples seems especially apposite. Yarram engage in patient listening in the face of a common and enjoyed with the land, the Wonthaggi / Inverloch Some of you will have seen approach with wine and pressing purpose. waters, and the skies, as Paynesville it elsewhere, though many of welcome We have seen the way that primary custodians. our readers will not. Whether cook for crowds of strangers emergency services, govern- Doing so within a Judeo- new or familiar, and with her clothe and house your ment and non-government Christian context, we are blessing, I share it with you, neighbours The Gippsland agencies, community groups, recalled to our own primordial echoing the gratitude – indeed pray for rest and rainfall Anglican and our Australian Defence partnership with creation, and the beatitude – it conveys. God beside you Forces have come together asked to consider what its Member of Australasian Religious to meet the varying needs of pain and scarring from these Jennie Gordon, Press Association so many – not only here in fires may have to teach us. 1 January 2020

Registered by Australia Post Print Post Number 34352/00018 St Augustine’s, San Remo The Gippsland Anglican is the official Prayer Diary: around the parishes Rector: The Rev’d Jo White newspaper of and is published by The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland, “That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith...” (Romans 1:12) 453 Raymond Street, The parish has worked Sale, Victoria, 3850. hard to create its mission www.gippsanglican.org.au AVON – EASTERN REGION gospel and seek to engage all Please pray for us as we ages in the parish. seek to develop the ministries statement. Please pray that Holy Trinity, Stratford Editor: Sally Woollett and mission identified it will guide our decision 0407 614 661 All Saints, Briagolong BAIRNSDALE – at our parish visioning making and enhance our life [email protected] St Mary, Munro EASTERN REGION sessions last year: Praise and together. We give thanks that Layout by Devine Design Priest-in-Charge: we are blessed with a fine, St John’s, Bairnsdale Prayer Evening Worship; The Rev’d David Perryman prominent position in the Printed by Rural Press Rector: The Ven Brenda Ministry to the homeless/ main street of Cowes. This This mission-focused, three- Burney needy; healing prayer; The editor reserves the right centred parish is located in Alpha Courses; children’s provides many opportunities of final choice and format of for groups like Red Frogs, material included in each issue. east Gippsland. The parish We give thanks for the life and youth ministry; and The Gippsland Anglican and is Christ-centred, seeking and witness of our parish; carpet bowls. We pray for Theos and Scripture Union the editor cannot necessarily to make Jesus known in for our community; for the those who will lead those to minister to locals and verify any material used in this our local communities. possibilities and challenges visitors. We give thanks for publication. Views contained in ministries and that we will submitted material are those We currently have that lie ahead; for our listen to the promptings of the volunteers who open the of contributors. traditional worship services team of faithful, hard- the Holy Spirit as we discern Mary Talbot Room five days with an all-age worship working parishioners as a week and those who help Advertising enquiries what shape those ministries family service once a month. they undertake their with fundraising barbeques Please contact the editor for all will take. advertising submissions, costing We have regular Bible studies, ministries and mission; for and Devonshire teas, parish fete and regular second-hand and enquiries, including about mainly music and the Family the blessing of Johnno’s BASS–PHILLIP ISLAND – inserts. Fun Fair in May. Please Outreach Centre and Men’s SOUTHERN REGION book sales. We plan to begin small groups this year so pray Subscription enquiries pray for us as we continue Shed which allow us to St Paul’s, Bass for this to grow gently and 03 5144 2044 to grow community help those in need in our [email protected] relationships, share the community. St Phillip’s, Cowes with God’s leading.

Page 2 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020 TGA Around rural Victoria Around the Diocese Street art project brings Community building at Summerplay in Sale

biblical scenes to life Nikolai Blaskow

ho will ever forget the start of summer W2020? The pall of it has cast a long shadow: so much destruction, human lives lost and mourned – livelihoods decimated. Thick smoke covered most of the eastern seaboard and, when roads Photo: Christine Morris were temporarily opened, Ian Campbell, Anglican our church belongs with hundreds of kilometres It was a song of regeneration: ran last year. The program Diocese of Bendigo local congregations, and it of dangerously burnt-out “We have been burnt … But features, among many other is clear that this town and trees smouldered. we will rise higher and higher practices, dancing on behalf Three new murals now hang congregation has great Not surprisingly, there on the wings of compassion, of, big body stories, dance from the walls of the church humour and great gifts to were cancellations for the justice and hope.” with witness, contact dances, and hall at St James’ Tongala, share,” he said. “My hope for Sale Summerplay in January, So what is InterPlay? follow the leader, eight body with a formal opening and all our churches both large and an InterPlay Australia event Trying to explain it is a wisdom tools and group blessing led by Bishop Matt small is that they are finding facilitated by Phil Porter bit like poor Billy Elliott toning/singing. And, like a Brain in mid-October. ways to support and uplift (USA) and Trish Watts explaining what dance meant scarlet thread running through The artworks are amongst the local community they are (Co-founder Australia). But to him. It wasn’t clear until one it all: a profound sense of fun 50 murals around the town in, and this is a wonderful despite the hardships of the panel from the Royal and play. of Tongala, painted by local example of that.” and the road closures, 28 Ballet asked him that one last And from such practices Murray Ross with the support The murals are well of the 35 people expected question: ‘What does it feel arises a great strength. of the Lions Club through the worth a visit if you are made it to a Gippsland like when you are dancing?’ Visualise Billy Elliott’s project ‘Tongala Street Art’. ever in Tongala, and if you on fire – and it was a blessing His answer encapsulates it all: dramatic leap at the start of The murals depict well look closely you might that, at the start of the event, Don’t know. Sort of feels the Royal Ballet’s Swan Lake: known biblical scenes find a few oddities including rain fell and cleared the air. good. It’s sort of stiff passionate, powerful, the including Moses parting the a shark, an elephant rabbit The highlight was when 20 and that, but once I get triumph of years of practice waters, Jesus walking on and classic Aussie dunny! people surrounded a healthy goin’, then, I, like forget and the community who water and a montage of four As for the dunny – Bishop green tree in nearby Victoria everythin’. And … sort of helped him get there. scenes of Noah’s Ark. Matt is in full support. “Life Park and sang on behalf of disappear. Sort of disappear InterPlay is not the Royal Bishop Matt said he is too serious as it is. It all who had suffered, and … I’m just there, flyin’ … Ballet. But in more than was blown away by the is great to be able to see the those who died. The song like a bird. Like electricity. 20 years it is the most commitment and skill of lighter side of life,” he said. was Ashes and Smoke, which Eight of our 28 participants powerful community-building the artists and the Tongala Linda Allen had written graduated from the Life and life-changing practice I community. “The heart of Courtesy www.bendigoanglican.org.au after the catastrophe of 9/11. Practice Program, which have witnessed.

February 2020 The Gippsland Anglican Page 3 Around the Diocese – bushfire support TGA

service, such as Rural Help, Minimising the trauma of bushfire for support. “By supporting members Kerry Howard and seek help, our of the community to take PsychNEXUS brains have often a more proactive approach already settled to their own mental health, by utilising RAW and ustralia is in a state of into a pattern encouraging others to do crisis, arguably in the of negative the same, we might just middle of the worst thinking that can A take some time be able to prevent the natural disaster experiences worst natural disaster in in our recorded history. to resolve. our history becoming the Trauma prevention strategist “Prevention biggest burden on our and psychologist Kerry is always better already overwhelmed health Howard is keen to ensure that than cure, so system in the future,” Ms communities are supported there are some Howard said. during these days of collective simple ways that trauma. As a survivor of the we can minimise Photo: Chris Mulherin 2003 Canberra firestorm, the impact of Kerry Howard is the Ms Howard understands the our traumatic The Rev'd Jude Benton held post-fire prayers on the beach in Mallacoota founder of PsychNEXUS – emotions and devastation experience as Helping You Feel Better. that many Australians are it is happening. Walk ‘n’ talk experience. However, if they She leads a team of currently experiencing. Ms Understanding these simple It is important to help our persist you should consult experts in the prevention Howard is committed to things may ensure that brains to process trauma to your GP or reach out to a and early intervention of providing skills and resources our communities are not talk openly with each other counselling or psychological psychological injury. that can minimise the impact overwhelmed in their efforts about our experience but try of extreme emotional to recover,” Ms Howard said. to focus on the positives. experiences on individuals In order to minimise the Walking facilitates bilateral Listening to help and communities. impact, Ms Howard has stimulation, which is “Australia is built on a developed a system that we can scientifically proven to reduce foundation of resilience – all use. She recommends that the impact of the traumatic healing after disaster we see ourselves as ‘tough’. we encourage each other to experience. Allowing the be RAW: emotions to come up as we Getting support after facing Photo: Merri Spalding walk helps to reduce the Cathrine Muston a disaster should not been Reality check Anglicare Community Development Officer impact of the traumatic event. seen as a sign of weakness, You are not alone in this it is actually an indicator experience and the situation of strength. We often don’t “If we can apply the How do we respond to loss and validate what the is unprecedented. Ensure you RAW process, it may help the disaster that continues person has experienced. Even work through our negative seek advice and take action to eliminate any longer term to unfold around us? The those who were nowhere feelings about the experience, to maintain your safety. psychological impacts that helplessness that we feel near the fires but have been as they happen. Often it feels Recognise that any decision can result from traumatic as we hear of and read the overwhelmed by the media easier to avoid how we are you make is the best one experience. We know that stories of devastation from coverage may need to tell feeling. However, the Aussie that you could have made in our brains start to consolidate this summer’s fires can their story. We need to be approach of ‘She’ll be right, the moment. mate!’ can often be more information within the first unbalance and leave us with able to reassure people that harmful, as avoidance is Awareness six hours after a traumatic an overwhelming sense of things will be ok, and that one of the biggest predictors Try to notice if you are event, so it’s important despair. And of course there what has been experienced to developing longer term talking excessively about your to Walk ‘n’ Talk ASAP. is the extreme grief and loss was significant. In particular, emotional problems,” experiences, or not talking The earlier we start that many are experiencing it is important to validate the Ms Howard said. about them at all. Everyone using these tools, the and will continue to feelings of children, who may When things get over- processes things differently, better impact we have in experience as they rebuild be experiencing feelings that whelming, it can be helpful and the extreme responses are the longer term,” Ms their homes, businesses and they do not understand, and to get professional help. the ones to be aware of as they Howard said. communities. How do we to reassure them that they are However, by the time we are often early indicators of a There are other things recover from this and what safe. Careful listening to one become aware of the problem developing problem. to consider over the com- role can our parishes and another’s stories can help us ing weeks to ensure that our Anglicare play? all as we recover from this reaction has been actually The important thing we season of loss and disaster. processed normally – the can do at this time – every one Providing a space for a main one is sleep. It is quite of us – is to listen. Something cuppa and chat in our homes common to have trouble fall- learnt from the Black Saturday and churches can provide ing asleep due to excessive fires is that people process opportunity for these stories thinking about the incident, their experience through to be told. or waking around 3 am with telling their story, by exploring Anglicare Victoria will be your mind racing and being the why, what and how of looking for ways in which unable to fall back to sleep. events and their aftermath. we can further partner It is also common to dream We need to provide the space with parishes to support about the event. This should and time for people to tell them at this time in order to settle down in a couple of their stories and to respond strengthen community and days, especially if you have to them with sensitivity and support recovery. implemented the RAW pro- reassurance – allowing people For further information cess. However, if it is not to cry or not cry as they need. and resources, you might find settling, it can help to write In times of disaster and the following helpful: down the things that you keep trauma, our brains need to https://whatsyourgrief.com thinking about – it gives our make some sense of what www.phoenixaustralia.org/ brain a reality check about has happened. The best recovery/helping-children- our approach. thing that the listener can and-teens Many of the experiences do is to acknowledge the or call Lifeline (13 11 14) outlined are common responses to any traumatic

Page 4 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020 TGA Around the Diocese – bushfire support BAIRNSDALE Hours were spent anxiously monitoring Vic Emergency information and weather forecasts. There was little comfort in knowing that we are not alone, that fires were burning out of control in five states. More time was spent in fervent prayer for mercy and protection. We witnessed the grief of loss and hardship. And we experienced the helplessness and frustration of being safe but not knowing what to do Photo: Judi Hogan Photo: Brenda Burney or how to help those affected or in harm’s way. flock with the instruction to their sure and certain hope Alison Goetz should leave. What? Relief efforts sprang into “pass it on”. Many attended that God will provide. Surely Bairnsdale is safe? action and the community and drew enormous comfort Epiphany morning was Perhaps not. rallied around the from a service of prayer and blessedly cool and raining. he weeks leading up to On New Year’s Eve, the evacuated and each other. readings from Lamentations Not hard, but consistently. At the celebration of the feeling of dread became Donations came flooding and the Gospel of St Matthew, church, we were blessed with Tbirth of our Lord Jesus terror and the roller coaster in. The Victorian Council a service that Brenda had the unexpected but welcome saw the traditional services of emotions intensified. The of Churches Emergency originally put together in presence of Bishop Richard and observances at St John’s terror of night skies glowing Ministry teams arrived and the aftermath of the Black with a message of love, prayer Bairnsdale. Each held its red and daylight revealing local ministers joined them Saturday fires in 2009. And and support. At his side was own promise and joy but the massive smoke plumes all to spend long hours with lament and pray we did, while our exhausted rector who ominous shadow of bushfires too close. The horror of the evacuees and the bereaved. placing rose petals in a bowl had spent too many hours hovered in the background. realisation that this could After another horror day of water and red paper hearts in her chaplaincy role at the After Christmas Day, the go on for months. The fear and night on New Year’s in prayer at the foot of a cross. emergency relief centre in tension generated by the for the firefighters and those Eve, our newly appointed There were many hugs, and Bairnsdale since New Year’s increasing temperatures and whose homes were in the Archdeacon, the Ven Brenda tears flowed freely. There Day but who still had energy gusty winds was building. path of raging infernos. The Burney, called an ecumenical was the awe of witnessing the for laughter and children’s Fires had been burning for almost inconceivable thought prayer meeting for New steadfast faith of those who stories, tears and hugs for the months and on the Sunday that even the unlikely event Year’s Day with a hasty had lost their homes, their bereaved and the troubled, before New Year we were told of 10 inches of rain might text message to many of her gratitude for their lives and and to baptise an evacuee by emergency services that not be enough to quench whose home is still in danger. everyone in east Gippsland the fires. Later in the day, I was SALE brought to tears again by the MAFFRA sight of a convoy of brave truckers and their escort Rev’d Janet Wallis place them in water, because carrying hay, stockfeed and water puts out fire, as a way of heavy machinery to fire- ravaged Buchan and beyond. On 3 January, the people of offering them to God. And it rained on into late Maffra gathered for a time At the centre of the Monday. Prayers answered. of prayer for all affected by church were various materials At the time of writing, fires in our district. People of of different colours: blue another spike day is each denomination in town representing water on top imminent. Again, many will attended, as well as a couple of the blackened landscape, evacuate, emergency service of evacuees staying with brown for the exposed soils, workers will gather their friends. Our liturgy had been a mottled green for hope of Photo: Richard Treloar strength for another fight and produced as an ecumenical restoration emerging from the we will prepare. And pray. service following the 2009 fires scarred earth, and green for Cynthia Grove empathy and insight. Prayers, in Gippsland, and adapted for growth, leading to the Paschal and a poem by Rev Jennie the evening. Candle as a sign of the hope Gordon of the Uniting Church BUNYIP We reflected on the trauma of resurrection. On 5 January, about 60 people (see p. 2) were read. Holding of fire and its aftermath on Our prayers were sincere and gathered at St Paul’s Cathedral the words from the prayers in Tim Green people, livestock, wildlife and focused. We thank God that in Sale to share grief and our hearts we were invited to community. People were invited some rain has fallen, and we prayers for all those affected approach the altar and place Since the disastrous fires in to write their own prayers and continue to pray for more. by bushfire in east Gippsland petals in a bowl of water March last year that devastated and across Australia. We came (representing tears). the Tonimbuk community, from different denominations During the vigil the recently the congregation at St Thomas and faith traditions; that alone formed Threshold Choir sang has been working behind was a joy to be able to share twice for us, easing the the scenes with donations of with others, even in this time burden of grief with their food and finances. Recently, of sorrow. music, When the Weight of two small oak tree seedlings As we started the vigil, Jenny the World and Metta Sutta. were donated by the Batten sang Linda Allen’s Ashes We all sang Shirley Erena people of Tonimbuk in thanks and Smoke very movingly. Murray’s Memorial Hymn for the support given by Then there were readings, for Australian People in the the church community. and reflections from, first, the Aftermath of the Bushfires They have been planted Rev’d Rowena Harris, about 2009 to the tune of Now on the nature strip outside the conditions at Mallacoota, Thank We All Our God. the church grounds. They read by the Rev’d Sue Stott As we left, we were invited were planted by Louise (both of the Uniting Church). to take pieces of rosemary Hunter, a resident of In the second reflection, Bishop and place them on maps of Tonimbuk and a member of Richard spoke with great Australia and Victoria. the congregation.

February 2020 The Gippsland Anglican Page 5 Around the Diocese TGA In ecosystems, little things mean a lot

Jocelyn Suiter the endangered mountain in the wetter weather. It is hard pygmy possum. to say if they will regenerate ften in life it’s the little Australian National to previous numbers after things that mean a lot. University Professor David these fires,” he said. OAnd that’s the case Lindenmayer says the Professor Lindenmayer, when it comes to the hundreds fires have consumed large from the Fenner School of of billions of insects feared numbers of insects, which Environment and Society, dead in the bushfires that will have a great impact on says the main impact on the Photo: Toby Hudson have hit. the forests of east Gippsland ecology is not the severity of The insects, which don’t and their regeneration. This the current fires, which have The ‘green grocer’ cicada (Cyclochila australasiae) is a food source for insect-eaters in east Gippsland appear among the images is a sombre start to the United swept through several million coming out of fire-stricken Nations’ International Year of hectares in Victoria and NSW, clear. The science is clear. In simple terms, all humans areas, sustain many of the Plant Health. but the rate of occurrence There are higher temperatures are responsible for taking care fluffy native animals that “Insects play important of fires. and less rainfall. The climate of the world. It’s a doctrine, tug at our heartstrings. The roles in pollinating trees, In east Gippsland, many and weather are key drivers Professor Lindenmayer says, Bogong moth, already in dispersal of seeds, breaking areas hit by this summer’s fires of bushfires. that has a lot of merit. decline in the High Country, down waste like leaf litter. were also burnt in the previous “Gippsland has seen a 25 “Everyone should be is the main food source for They are much more abundant decade but the forests actually per cent reduction in rainfall responsible for the custodian- need about 100 years between over the past 20 years and ship of the Earth. In fires to regenerate, Professor that puts a strain on farmers Australia, we have so Memorable moments at Lindenmayer said. as well.” many species unique to our “Our ecological systems Environmental stewardship, continent, not only koalas, Wonthaggi crib service are not geared to deal with which relates to responsible we should all have global frequest, high-intensity fires. use and protection of the stewardship roles. Our systems may collapse – natural environment through “It’s applicable to forests it’s a real worry,” he said. conservation and sustainable and farmland. Few farmers The issue of climate change practices, is a belief that can be want to degrade their land.” is, of course, the elephant in linked to Genesis in the Bible When the issue of climate the room. While many of our where humanity was given the change seems too big for an politicians say it is not the task of looking after the Earth. individual to address, we right time to discuss global The fifth mark of Anglican should think of ourselves warming, Professor Linden- mission urges us to strive as being like the insects in mayer forcefully disagreed. to safeguard the integrity the forest contributing to a “This is the time people are of creation, and sustain and sustainable ecology, Professor directly affected. It’s pretty renew the life of the Earth. Lindenmayer said.

Vivienne McInerney We sang carols throughout, All things Russian at the Abbey and then the unexpected happened: to our amusement, Peter the Great Photo: Edie Ashley Around 4 pm last Christmas Susan Fordham the baby in the manger transformed Russia Eve, as the congregation was abducted by a tiny tot. from a backwater started to arrive at St The baby was then gently In late November, the Abbey to a modern (for the Georges Wonthaggi, they retrieved. at Raymond Island hosted times) international were invited to don the We watched a short the long-awaited ‘Russian player. He was a robes of Mary and Joseph, video, Teach Your Children History with a Twist’, truly remarkable if angels, shepherds and wise to Care, and finished with hosted and presented by bloodthirsty men. Toy animals stood Holy Communion and June Treadwell. character. around and at the right time blessings. Late afternoon tea June is a well-regarded June had invited a swathed doll was laid in was a chocolate cake (with a presenter of all things Leo Wimmer – artist, the manger. candle for Jesus), fairy bread historical at Bairnsdale art restorer and icon Our locum priest, the and lemonade. U3A so it was bound to writer – to present a Rev’d Anne Perryman, The message from the be successful. session on Russian narrated the Christmas service was ‘Take Jesus with The Friday night session iconography and the story, and the actors mimed. you’. One little girl certainly began with an outline of process for selecting There had been no rehearsal. took that to heart. early Russian history, the the right timber ‘choice’ of Christianity to and preparing support the Russian state and it for the icon. the development of church Those who know and state as a mechanism Leo, a member of for the control of the Sale’s cathedral June Treadwell Russian people. church, realise that The dinner that followed he is a very engaging who did much to was an example of Ian presenter. The audience was consolidate the territory and Pearson at his finest. The mesmerised by the torrent of organisation of the Russian Abbey chef produced roasted fascinating information and empire while establishing half chickens in a red wine wished that the session could the arts and culture on a jus with seasonal vegetables, have gone on for far longer firm footing. and sticky date pudding than it had. In all, ‘Russian History with drizzled with a caramel The final session focused a Twist’ was extraordinarily butterscotch sauce. on Catherine the Great, successful and everyone is The Saturday sessions another talented and waiting for the next of June’s began with looking at how clever national leader inspired presentations.

Page 6 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020 TGA Around the Diocese Whisky and welcome company at Bass–Phillip Christmas

Rev’d Jo White parish fete, Men’s Dinners, as pudding and custard or, well as this Parish Christmas for those who preferred it, s rector, I was Dinner. It was good to see fresh fruit salad and cream. immensely proud many people from across the We literally sang for Aof our parish as I parish working side by side our supper. Ken White looked around at how happy at the Moto GP breakfasts in accompanied our song on the we all were in each other’s October and the parish fete Ahlborn organ. We enjoyed company at the Bass–Phillip in November. a rendition of The Holly and Photo: Les Ridge Island Parish Christmas The Christmas dinner was the Ivy, a favourite of Jenny Guest speaker Julian White and Rev’d Jo White Dinner in December. The ably coordinated by Ralph Dawson from St Augustine’s, food was excellent. The and Pauleen Leditschke. reminding her of Christmases whisky. Even non-whisky A Bourbon whisky can only speaker was entertaining The menu was traditional in the UK. We also sang all drinkers were entertained with be called Bourbon if it is made and the addition of a paid and provided everyone the verses of Good King interesting facts, including from 51% corn and matured dishwasher was a welcome with a delicious meal and Wenceslas, Silent Night and the definition of a cask and in American oak casks in inclusion. The dinner was a wonderful occasion of Deck the Halls. a barrel and what makes a America. Similarly, a Scotch a great success and made a fellowship and festive Our after-dinner speaker whisky a Bourbon or a Scotch. can only be so-called if it has considerable contribution to gathering. We started with was Mr Julian White, (For those who don’t know, been distilled and matured in parish finances. a variety of breads and dips, co-owner of Whisky & a barrel is a specific size of oak casks in Scotland. We have gathered as a parish followed by a main course Alement Melbourne, world- cask, with a volume of 200 We were packed into the on a number of occasions of roast turkey thighs and renowned whisky expert litres, and ‘cask’ is the name parish hall: 84 people in this year: Shrove Tuesday roast pork, roast potatoes, and international whisky of the coopered containers all. Perhaps it was a little pancakes at St Augustine’s, steamed asparagus and judge. Julian brought with used to mature whisky.) One squeezy, but this reflects lunch with Bishop Richard at glazed carrots, gravy and him three whiskies for us of the Australian whiskies the popularity of the event. the Bass Hotel, the combined apple sauce. Dessert was to try – two from Australia we sampled was matured A definite fixture on the service for the AGM, the a crowd favourite: plum and one 10-year-old Scotch in Australian wine casks. parish calendar. Songs, stories and skits at Stratford Community Carols

Gail Wager characters from the Christmas Fr Peter Bickley, from St story, circulated in the crowd Patrick’s Catholic Church, and later enacted the reading rounded off the evening with a After much planning by of the Christmas story. traditional Christmas blessing. a dedicated organising When the audience A retiring offering raised a committee, led by the had programs and battery generous donation for local Rev’d Dave Perryman, the candles, the carols began, charity Annie’s Cottage. The Stratford Community Carols ably compered by Deb Bye event was fortunate to have by Candlelight took place from the Stratford Uniting a pleasant summer evening, on 15 December. Holy Trinity Church, supported by the and thankfully the wind died Children’s art for Anglican Church hosted the Sale City Band and the down for the carols! event, which attracted well Stratford Singers. Students The organisers are grateful Yarram’s Christmas trees over 300 people, including from Stratford Primary School for the sponsorship of many local families. The and St Patrick’s Primary School Wellington Shire Council and Rev’d Brian Norris having the schools and jumping castle, sausage entertained with Christmas Marathon Electrical, and the the parish involved on this sizzle provided by Stratford songs. School Chaplain Steve support of the Lions Club of Early on 6 December, special Christmas project Lions and fairy floss were Postlethwaite conveyed the Stratford, without which the members of the Anglican together. For this fifth all free pre-carols activities. true meaning of Christmas event would not have been Parish of Yarram and friends year of the Christmas Tree Local volunteers, dressed as with an entertaining skit. so successful. placed 90 small wooden Trail, he expressed the Christmas in Commercial hope that the trees would Road, Yarram. remind everyone of the true The Yarram Men’s Shed meaning of Christmas. Extravaganza cut the trees from material The idea for the project gifted by Bunnings of Sale. came after a visit by Mr in Orbost In 2019, the main sponsor Hartmeier to Budapest six was Cooper’s Hardware, years ago, where he saw About 130 people joined Yarram, who provided the Christmas trees decorated in for an evening of paint. The trees usually last by children in the main pre-Christmas fun, food for three to four years before shopping precinct of the and friendship at needing replacement. city. “When you look at the St James’ Orbost The trees were decorated project overall, more than Theatrical Extravaganza by schools in the Yarram 200 people helped to make in November. The Nowa district during November. the Christmas Tree Trail Nowa Men’s Choir Mr Hartmeier, the driving happen, involving practically (pictured) are part force behind the project, the entire community of Photo: Barbara Lunson of the event every year. said that it was great Yarram,” said Mr Hartmeier.

February 2020 The Gippsland Anglican Page 7 Around the Diocese TGA

when he was a teenager at the New national director for SIM Australia Anglican church in Warragul, where his father was the Archdeacon Clem Watts minister. A visiting CMS missionary, Dr Tim Linton from Nepal, was speaking alcolm Watts has about his work as a medical been appointed as doctor in Nepal. Dr Linton the new national just happened to mention that M a lot of his time was taken director for SIM (Serving in Mission) Australia. He was up with administration and commissioned for the task accounting responsibilities. on 29 November 2019, to act The Lord used that comment as both CEO and pastor for to touch Malcolm’s heart as people and the organisation. he said to himself, “I could SIM Australia has over 125 do that.” missionaries serving in 29 After graduating from St countries across the world as Paul’s Anglican Grammar part of SIM International. School in 1987, Malcolm Malcolm’s call to trained as an accountant and missionary service came became a Certified Practising Accountant. He attended the Bible College of Victoria History comes alive for three years and it was there that he met his wife, at Bunyip Lectures Jenny, who also believed that God was calling her clergyman, Mr. Cox, a to be a missionary in Africa. Rev’d Ken Parker typical bush parson [who] After their marriage in had to be led exhausted 1998, they offered themselves Jim Connelly attracted from many a gallant to SIM for missionary a good crowd at our struggle, and is now almost service. They left Australia ninth Bunyip Lecture on blind.” After ordination, the following year for 8 December, when he Cox served at Mirboo North Paris to study French, the and Yarram. told wonderful stories of language they would need in growing up at Garfield in During the First World Volunteer chef Brad and his kitchen volunteers in Korumburra Burkina Faso. the 1930s and 40s and of War, Cox served in the Renate, Jenni, Pat and Jenni his involvement in St Mary’s army, playing a leading Malcolm and Jenny, along Church. As this venerable role in the development of with their two daughters, Erinn priest shared from his a venereal disease hospital Food and fellowship and Alicia, served with SIM heart, the Garfield of his for soldiers at Langwarrin. in Burkina Faso, West Africa, childhood came alive for Following the war, he for 15 years. They returned to his audience. It was an settled with his family at at Korumburra Australia in 2015 and settled absolute treat! Mornington, where he in Sydney, where Malcolm Our next Bunyip lived the rest of his life, community dinners served as the national finance Lecture will build on this dying in 1946. He never director for SIM Australia. He experience. Joy Cullen from lost his love for Gippsland. Pat Fell A delicious Christmas is based at the national office the Mornington Historical According to Dr meal of chicken, ham, for SIM in Penshurst, NSW. Society will tell us something Connelly, much of what we A year ago, we shared scalloped potatoes of the remarkable life of know of the early Anglican the story about our and mixed vegetables, the Rev’d George Cox, ministry in Gippsland Korumburra community followed by Christmas who began ministry with is due to Cox’s love of dinner. We can now say pudding and custard, Gippsland Forest Mission, this land and his careful that these monthly events was prepared by serving at Thorpdale and recording of the history of are proving to be a chef Brad and his Neerim South as a lay the pioneering church. wonderful way for our enthusiastic band of reader. In January 1898, Joy Cullen has recently community to come helpers in the kitchen. severe bushfires threatened published a fine little book together and share As with all Thorpdale. The Australasian on George Cox. Come food and fellowship. On community events, newspaper told of “Rev. and hear her speak about 6 December, more than success comes from G. Cox … who did such George Cox – a Man of 100 guests attended our hard work and good splendid rescue work” Many Parts in our next Christmas dinner (our planning, and our and The Argus depicted Bunyip Lecture (details on largest gathering yet), thanks go out to our “The Church of England p. 12). enjoying great food and willing and happy entertainment. Santa made volunteers, and to all an appearance and, as of the organisations always, Rev’d Fran opened who give their proceedings with Grace. generous support Our parish hall was packed each month. with happy people, whose Our next dinner voices and laughter could is scheduled for be heard amidst the clatter 7 February and of cutlery, whilst we were we look forward to entertained by the Milpara further community- Singers, singing carols for spirited dinners in all to enjoy. 2020 and beyond.

Page 8 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020 TGA Across the ages

ministry several years ago. The power of the curious question We recognised that we needed to get mentoring right Rev’d Melissa Lipsett asking good questions. from a very early age. And Much of what young people so, we introduced a system are exposed to, via a plethora that gave responsibility to here do all the of social media channels, our children and youth. questions go? As runs counter to the values of Primary children were Wany parent of young Christianity. If they do not invited to serve in pre- children knows, little know how to read an age- school ministry as helpers. people ask lots of questions. appropriate Bible – if we, their Secondary school students An average pre-schooler parents, have not taught them mentored primary schoolers. asks an estimated 40,000 Bible literacy – how can they This model of the older age questions over those four possibly interpret the vast group working intentionally crucial developmental years. amount of ideas, all competing with the next age down But then what happens? for not just their attention but has paid real dividends for Why do the questions their allegiance, through a this church. Photo: Bible Society gradually shrivel away? Biblical lens? There is less fear because Looking back on those Asking curious questions the older age recognises early years of child-rearing, is crucial to learning about this sacred text that we Bible with their own children. themselves in the questions Each person, no matter we read stories – including our place in this huge world start to understand the being asked. They are open, what age, must make that faith Bible stories – together most around us. If we suppress nature of God. And part of willing to learn together, decision for themselves. It is nights, and both parents and these questions, it either the responsibility of the older and out of that model grows only in the wrestling, asking children loved that intimate forces the questioner to seek Christian is to introduce the true intergenerational those hard questions, that the time together. other avenues for the answer next generation to the Bible. Bible engagement. If I had my time over again, or it starts to shut down One generation commends seeker finds God through their Our Gen Z and Millennial I think I would change how that questioning mind. Why your works to another; they personal engagement with the children are asking the same I engaged in my children’s do you think Adolf Hitler tell of your mighty acts. Bible. The more that families questions young people have teen years. I realise that due wanted books destroyed? Psalm 145:4 (NIV) read the Bible together, in been asking for centuries. to my own anxiety about the The Creator God made us The curious child lies at whatever creative ways and Nothing surprises God. Let potential influence of the fast- in God’s image. We are made the heart of our latest little channels they can, the more us be open and ready for changing culture, I operated to be curious. To create. To publication – a children’s book chance of embedding a love of any and all questions offered from a place of fear. I tried think big. And we have God’s about Christmas. Children are the Bible into the DNA of the by those younger than us. to model Christianity and word, the Bible, to help us the lead actors in this story. next generation. We can always find the at the same time shut down understand the world we As the storyteller starts with That is the wonder of the answers together. the doubting questions. It inhabit; to ask the questions “in the beginning God made Christian faith. We are being didn’t work! about who we are, where we everything …” the who, what, invited to partner with God in The Rev’d Melissa Lipsett is We live in an age of came from, why we are here, why, how questions begin. It a living, breathing story. Chief Operating Officer of information. Our children what is our purpose. speaks to both the innocent Children’s questions help Bible Society Group, which can access more ideas in one Bible Society thinks and the cynic because God us learn to see the world includes Bible Society Australia, day than previous generations a lot about these kinds is ready for both. Through differently. The learning Centre for Public Christianity, could encounter in a of questions, because at stories that give permission becomes mutual. This idea Eternity News and Koorong lifetime! How do we equip the very centre of our for children to ask those of shared learning was at Christian bookshops. these young minds to discern mission is to grow people’s enquiring difficult questions the heart of the mentoring She is also currently Chief the quality of information engagement with the Bible. we hope we can help equip model we created as part of Executive Office (Acting) of they consume? Keep them It is only as we engage in parents to foster a love of the my church’s children’s Bible Society Australia Group.

forward to my first day, so I can the 2020 school year. New principal for Gippsland Grammar meet the Gippsland Grammar “Leisa is a deeply committed staff and students.” educator whose passion for Leisa Harper has been Gippsland Grammar Board young people is evident in appointed the next principal of Chair Vicki McLeod said that all she does,” Mrs McLeod Gippsland Grammar. over the past seven years said. “She believes that every The appointment comes Mr Baker had made a lasting child has the right to an inclusive following the announcement impression at Gippsland and equitable education that late last year that current Grammar and he would promotes and provides life- principal David Baker has be greatly missed by the long learning opportunities accepted the position of school community. and she is committed to principal at Woodleigh School Mrs Harper and her husband academic excellence and strong on the Mornington Peninsula. Graham have three children: pastoral care and co-curricular Mrs Harper will move to Georgia, 18, and twins Phoebe programs.” Gippsland from Rockhampton and Rhys, 15. Phoebe and Mrs Harper will commence in Queensland where she is Rhys will transfer to Gippsland her new role at the beginning currently in a consultant role at Grammar for the beginning of of Term 2, 2020. Rockhampton Grammar School. She was previously principal at Fraser Coast Anglican College and held executive roles at St Paul’s School and Brisbane Grammar School. Mrs Harper has worked extensively with the Leisa Harper Harvard School of Education and currently serves as a to her teaching qualifications, Mrs Harper said, “The director on the Independent she holds a Masters of Business community spirit was evident Schools Queensland Board Administration and a Masters when I visited Sale and my and Queensland Independent of Educational Studies in family enjoy living in regional Schools Network. In addition Adolescent Psychology. areas. I am already looking

February 2020 The Gippsland Anglican Page 9 Ecumenical and interfaith TGA

year. We spoke of our experiences of Labyrinth walkers reflect during Advent Advent in Australia, then we walked the labyrinth, shoes off. Cynthia Grove the Christian tradition in the Middle walking out, as you reverse the route, After lunch, we painted jacaranda Ages, and revived in the 1990s. To allow God to strengthen and lead you. pods and gumnuts for Christmas ave you walked a labyrinth? walk the labyrinth is a pilgrimage. In December, the people of St Paul’s decorations, a time of reflection and If so, you will know the peace It is a spiritual journey to the centre Sale were blessed with a second visit sharing. We then each chose a poem, it can bring; if not, this is a of the soul. One walks towards the (the first being two years before) sight unseen, and spent time with Hspecial experience waiting for you. centre, shedding the external world by Christina Rowntree. Around 20 that in prayer and quietness outside It’s a journey that has many turns with its worries and concerns, offering people from our own congregation in the beauty of the natural world. but no impassable walls. The ancient these to God. At the centre is a circle, and from the Uniting Church joined Each then shared their insights, tradition is known in many cultures or perhaps a square, where one can for Christina’s leading as she spoke before being invited to walk – no and religious traditions, beginning in meditate and stand with God. In the about the labyrinth and then sent us … dance – a second labyrinth, this walking a small version on canvas of time a square one outlined with black the labyrinth of Chartres Cathedral stones between the cathedral and the (www.atlasobscura.com). First, we registry. Christina provided scarves Ecumenical day of study for Lent were each given a shell containing a gift to be waved as we went through In a major ecumenical initiative, the Ecumenical cooperation is vital to of the earth, flowers and greenery. We the labyrinth. While a few people Anglican and Roman Catholic bishops in the mission and integrity of both spent time with our gift, listening and danced, many of us walked because Gippsland will co-host a seasonal Bible Churches and serves as a witness to resting, then shared our experience. We we needed to watch where we were study on Raymond Island in February in the wider community of our essential placed our gifts around the outside of going; the swinging of the scarves unity in Christ. The Scriptures are the week prior to Ash Wednesday. the labyrinth. We reflected on Advent was enthusiastic though. a common source of authority for The two bishops are inviting clergy as a threshold into the new church A wonderfully peaceful, quiet day. both Anglicans and Roman Catholics and lay people from both dioceses to join and when we study and reflect on with them in a ‘Lenten conversation’, them together we are enriched by the EDITORIAL a study of passages from Matthew insights and experiences of our sisters and John featured in the common and brothers from another tradition. lectionary during Lent this year, Bishop O’Regan and I join in warmly Reaching across space, time and faiths and reflection on Lenten themes that commending to our clergy and people speak to our context. this opportunity to engage with two Last year, I completed Harvard University’s online open course ‘Women The conversation will be led by two fine theologians and with each other. making history: ten objects, many stories’. It began with an online guided eminent scholars, the Rev’d Professor The gathering will be held at the Abbey, visual exploration of an unknown object. On the virtual tour, participants Mark Lindsay, Professor of Historical Diocesan Retreat and Conference were encouraged to ‘be curious’ as they began to get a sense of the object’s Theology, Trinity College Theological Centre, Raymond Island on Friday 21 size, weight, age, construction, texture and parts. School, and Dr Frances Baker RSM, February, 10 am – 3.30 pm. The object, we later learned, is a camera owned by the first published female photojournalist in the US, Jessie Tarbox Beals, which is now housed at Senior Lecturer in Moral Theology For further information and bookings, Harvard’s Arthur and Elizabeth Schlesinger Library on the History of Women and Systematic Theology, Catholic which are essential for catering purposes in America. The course leads students from considering parts of the ‘box’, to Theological College. and any accommodation needs, contact considering the box as a camera, to considering the woman who owned the In commending this gathering Anna at the Abbey (5156 6580 or info@ camera and the time, place and circumstances in which she lived. to Anglicans across the Diocese, theabbey.org.au). There will be a catering We may choose to consider ideas and values in this way – recognising Bishop Richard said: charge of $20 per person. them for what they are behind influencers such as space, time and faith. Our views of the world are individually tinted, and my aim is to introduce some of that spectrum into these pages, so that TGA is not only about Gippslanders but about people, events and ideas that engage and affect us. In TGA’s new series on rural Victoria (p. 3), readers can venture into other rural dioceses, starting this month with Bendigo, where some of the many murals in the Tongala Street Art project depict well known biblical scenes, such as Moses’ parting of the Red Sea. On page 9 of this issue, in Across the Ages, TGA’s new intergenerational segment, the Rev’d Melissa Lipsett, COO of the Bible Society Group, discusses the power of curiosity and how crucial this is for young people to learn about their world. In her discussion of intergenerational reading, she explains that “Through stories that give permission for children to ask those enquiring difficult questions we hope we can help equip parents to foster a love of the Bible with their own children.” In the new segment on this page is news of a forthcoming ecumenical initiative to be held at the Abbey on Raymond Island. Bishop Richard and Patrick O’Regan (Catholic Diocese of Sale) will co-host a ‘Lenten conversation’ between academics from Trinity College Theological School and Catholic Theological College. “Ecumenical cooperation is vital to the mission and integrity of both Churches and serves as a witness to the wider community of our essential unity in Christ,” said Bishop Richard. Future Interfaith stories will highlight the customs, rituals and celebrations outside of the Anglican tradition. TGA’s regular Anglicare correspondent, Cathrine Muston (on p. 4 of this issue), will roam the pages of the newspaper to report in a segment that best fits the activities of her broad-reaching organisation from month to month. During this testing summer, both parishioners and clergy have been moved to write about their experiences and feelings during the bushfires. In the Reflection on page 11, Warragul’s Rev’d Tracy Lauersen shares A Bushfire Lament, inspired by Psalm 13. Reflections will alternate with a Sunday to Everyday story, exploring how people are taking their faith beyond the church into their daily lives. I hope you enjoy the first 2020 issue of TGA. Sally Woollett

Page 10 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020 TGA Reflection

We look at our calendars – We cannot bring this about Our people re-hoped. and we know we can’t take ourselves. a breath ‘til March. We feel our powerlessness, And we will sing your praise It’s no longer ‘summer’, Lord. again. it’s ‘fire season’ Without you, who made and For we know your goodness. We wake to the smell of is sovereign over all, we Your friendship is genuine. smoke. cannot turn the flames back. Your ears are turned Our phones lit up with towards us. emergency apps We trust that your love Your anger is fleeting. And we’re out in our gardens will not fail. Your love never fails. And we’re keeping our That our farms will recover. Your mercy unending. grass low Our animals breed. Amen. And we’re raking up our Our air be refreshed. leaves And emptying the gutters Our towns restored. But where is the decent rain, Lord?

Photo: Bev Yeates Forgotten. That’s how we feel. Look our way! Just below the 26th parallel. A Bushfire Lament To our, your, great, southern, sunburnt land.

A Bushfire Lament inspired by Psalm 13 , inspired by Psalm 13 ‘Thou art coming to a king Large petitions with thee Rev’d Tracy Lauersen We speak with wet eyes of bring’ towns, whose names few of ‘Do not be anxious about us knew before anything, but in everything Photo: Judi Hogan Bruthen and Coongbar by prayer and supplication Pyrocumulus cloud. Wytaliba and Willawarrin with thanksgiving let your Ember attack Jingalic and Cobargo requests be known to God’ Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund Fire storm Maramingo Creek and Here we are. Fire tornado The Diocese of Gippsland and the communities of east Conjola We stand in prayer. Fire front Gippsland are deeply moved by and profoundly grateful Mallacoota. We kneel in prayer for the prayers and generous support offered by so many Our prayers are in our We’ve had to learn new individuals, parishes, dioceses and other organisations And we’ve pulled out that old thoughts. Our thoughts turn phrases, new vocabulary to around the Anglican Communion in response to the bushfire faded word into prayers. talk about our tragedy. crisis, and assures those dealing with fires and the threat of that often comes out at a time fires in other parts of our state and nation of the continuing like this, Look our way, O Lord. prayers of the clergy and people of Gippsland for you also. Unprecedented like an old dusty book that Reach out your hands in Catastrophic sits on the shelf, rarely mercy and fill those clouds Donations to support the continuing work in the fire affected Extinction opened, somewhat disowned. with rain. parishes can be made directly to our diocesan emergency We’ve reached for words to Prayer Not pitter patter rain. trust fund by EFT: match its awfulness Not gentle rain. Account name: Gippsland Emergency Relief We’re all praying for rain. Not Melbourne rain – BSB: 705077 We’ve renamed days too: Believer and unbeliever alike. give us Brisbane rain! Acc: 00040664 (zeros must be included) Red Tuesday (1898) Rain. Not floods, not torrents, Ref: (Name or organisation) – Fire Relief Ash Wednesday (1983) And we’re asking of God but hearty, drenching, Cheques can be sent to the fund at: Black Thursday (1851) Why hasn’t God protected us? life-giving, fire-quenching, PO Box 928 Sale Vic, 3850. Black Friday (1939) Has God forgotten us? renewing rain. Black Saturday (2009) How can God be good? Black Sunday (1926, 1955) Until when will we wait for Black Christmas (1971) our prayers to be answered? We’re only missing Monday! Until when will we wait?

February 2020 The Gippsland Anglican Page 11 Coming up

‘Time out’ retreat over Easter From Maundy Thursday to Easter Monday it is ‘time out’ Diocesan calendar at the Abbey on Raymond Island. There is no program February to meet, nothing that has 9 6 pm: Community Evening after the fires, to be done, but there will with free BBQ and music. Buchan Recreation be the opportunity to share Reserve, Buchan. the Easter Liturgies, enjoy the beautiful Abbey Chapel, 14 10 am: Launch of the Listening Post, Moe– the beach, the bushland and Newborough Anglican Church community program, the island. There will be time an outreach for people to drop in and have a cuppa to delight in watching the and a chat with our volunteer team at our refurbished wildlife – kangaroos, koalas, location. Madge Vinell Centre, 7 Anzac St, Moe echidnas and more. Enjoy comfortable motel-style ac- 21 10 am – 3.30 pm: Ecumenical Lenten study. commodation and the com- Bookings essential. $20 per person for catering. pany of other visitors. the Abbey, 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. For many people, Easter with their ‘at home’ faith 5156 6580, [email protected] is the time to stay in community. Some peo- For further information, their parish, to celebrate ple are looking for space contact the Rev’d Edie 28 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, the wonderful myster- to dip into Easter from a Ashley (0423 400 359, 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am morning ies of the Christian faith different place. [email protected]). prayer, 10.30 am time to relax, reflect, pray, plant, enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon share a lunch provided ‘The Cost of Discipleship: Journeying with Dietrich Bonhoeffer’ 29 11 am – 4 pm: Lent Quiet Day – ‘The Cost of Session 2 Discipleship: Journeying with Dietrich Bonhoeffer’. Lent Quiet Day, St Paul’s Cathedral, Sale St Paul’s Cathedral, Cunninghame St, Sale 29 February, 11 am – 4 pm Bible Reading: Luke 19.28-40 (Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem) Join Dean of Melbourne The Dr Firth’s book, Dietrich Being Christ’s Body March Very Rev’d Dr Andreas Loewe Bonhoeffer: Six Steps on the (Dean Andreas Loewe and and Dr Katherine Firth for a Path of Discipleship (Morning Dr Katherine Firth) 6 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am – morning Lent Quiet Day on Dietrich Star Publishing, 2019), will be Personal reflection time Bonhoeffer, one of the leading available for purchase ($20) prayer, 10.30 am – time to relax, reflect, pray, plant, Tea theologians of the 20th and signing by the authors on enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon – share a lunch provided century. Sessions will be based the day. Concluding prayer 13 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, on Bonhoeffer’s The Cost of Sessions outline 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am – morning Discipleship, based on a series prayer, 10.30 am – time to relax, reflect, pray, plant, of lectures delivered at his Morning coffee Launch of enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon – share a lunch provided underground seminary in Opening prayer Listening Post an abandoned school on an 20 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, estate in Finkenwalde (today’s Session 1 at Moe 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am – morning Zdroje in Poland). This Bible Reading: Luke 15.1-10 After many months of prayer, 10.30 am – time to relax, reflect, pray, plant, seminal book developed (The Lost Sheep and the Lost planning and strategic enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon – share a lunch provided Bonhoeffer’s ideas about what Coin) action, Moe–Newborough discipleship meant and what it Costly Grace (Dean Andreas Church is ready to launch 25 11 am: Mothers’ Union celebration of Lady requires of people who seek to Loewe and Dr Katherine Firth) the Listening Post, at a Day. Eucharist and after-lunch speaker Bishop follow Jesus. Personal reflection time venue located in the newly Richard. St Paul’s Cathedral, Cunninghame St, Sale 9 April 2020 marks the 75th 5611 0326, [email protected] Prayers refurbished Madge Vinell anniversary of Bonhoeffer’s Centre, next to Moe Police martyrdom. Dr Loewe’s and Lunch break Station, Anzac St, Moe. 27 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, The launch heralds an 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am – morning opportunity for outreach prayer, 10.30 am – time to relax, reflect, pray, plant to anyone in the commu- enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon – share a lunch provided nity who might like to call in for a chat and some April refreshment within a friendly, non-judgemental 3 10 am – 1 pm: Fridays in Lent at the Abbey, environment. If required, 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island. 10 am – morning information can be pro- prayer, 10.30 am – time to relax, reflect, pray, plant, vided concerning support enjoy the Abbey, 12 noon – share a lunch provided agencies in the community. We have a group of keen 7 11 am: The Chrism Eucharist renewal of volunteers trained in the art ministry vows. St Paul’s Cathedral, of listening, ready to start Cunninghame St, Sale welcoming the community in the near future. 9–13 Easter retreat at the Abbey (see main text) Bishop Richard will for- 10 3 pm: Stations of the Cross using Gippsland mally launch this venture on Friday, 14 February artist Pat Waters’ remarkable paintings. at 10 am at the centre. St Thomas’ Bunyip, 16 A’Beckett Rd, Bunyip We are grateful for all the 19 2 pm: 10th Bunyip Lecture – Joy Cullen from support and generous do- Mornington to speak about pioneer Gippsland nations we have received priest George Cox. St Thomas’ Bunyip, to enable this vision of a 16 A’Beckett Rd, Bunyip safe, friendly community space come to fruition. 27–30 Clergy conference, the Abbey, God has more than 1–25 First Pde, Raymond Island answered our prayers!

Page 12 The Gippsland Anglican February 2020