New Times - September 2007 - Uniting Church in Australia

Issue 26, Number 8
PP 565 001/00190 ISSN 0726-2612 September 2007
Strategic Map project unveiled
EvEry Uniting Church congregation
and faith community in South Australia
will have its vitality and viability
assessed under a Presbytery-wide
Strategic Mapping project.
The project was presented for
discussion at the Presbytery and Synod
meeting at the end of July.
The Strategic Mapping project will
help identify strong congregations that
may serve as ministry bases for a wider
region and will also assist with the
allocation of future resources.
MrN mission planner rev rob Stoner
is managing the project and stressed it
is a “work in progress”.
rob said, once completed, hopefully
by the end of the year, the Strategic
Map will help guide decision-making on
ministerial placements, property sales
and development, grant allocations and
resourcing.
Each of the Presbytery’s 280
congregations and faith communities
will be categorised according to their
geographic location, mission and
ministry activities, worship attendance,
leadership, property and finances.
There are 17 different categories
ranging from large regional urban
congregations, with multiple worship
services, programs and ministers to
small rural faith communities that
are struggling to afford a part-time
minister.
rob said undoubtedly some
congregations will feel threatened by
the project.
“Ultimately the Strategic Map will be
used to help the Presbytery make critical
resourcing decisions,” rob said.
“We will decide that some
congregations are worth investing in
and that we cannot afford to place our
scarce resources in others.
“We will be forced to make some hard
decisions, but I stress this is not about
closing non-viable congregations, even
if some may view it that way.
“It will simply put the onus back on
congregations to demonstrate that they
are healthy and vital and worthy of
investment.
“If a congregation doesn’t like the
category they’ve been assigned, it will
be up to them to prove they should be in
another category.
“However in a church where our faith
is based on death and resurrection,
we shouldn’t be afraid of letting some
places die and believing that God might
raise up others in other places.”
rob said that congregations have
already been allocated a temporary
category based on National Church Life
Survey data and other information held
by the Presbytery.
He said further research will be
undertaken before categories are
confirmed and finalised by the end of
the year.
“One of the next steps in the process is
to hold a major “mapping day” to which
participants from all parties affected by
the strategic map will be invited.”
rob hopes the end result of the
Strategic Mapping project will be an
interactive electronic map showing
the location of every congregation,
faith community and agency serviced
by the Presbytery and Synod of South
Australia.
MRN mission planner Rev Rob Stoner is managing the ‘Strategic Mapping’
project for the Presbytery of South Australia.
‘Growing a nation of hope’
UNITING CHUrCH members are being
urged to think critically about how they
cast their vote in the upcoming Federal
Election tipped to be held in early
November.
The Uniting Church National
Assembly has produced a set of
resources to help members think
through the issues and political rhetoric
from a Christian perspective.
Called ‘Growing a Nation of Hope:
your faith, your vote, your voice’,
the election resources invite church
members to engage in political life
through the lens of Christian hope.
Continued on page 2.
inside…
Uranium exports 2
Indigenous issues 3
‘Desert Spirituality’ 4
PSMN report 5
Philippines partnership 6
KCO earlier in 2008 8
Church playgroups 9
Campbelltown expands 10
‘Culture of conversion’ 11
Cambodian church 12
P l e a s e h a n d o u t a t y o u r c h u r c h d o o r

2 N E W S
New Times
ISSN 0726-2612
Acting editor: Jill Freear, Ph 8236 4230, email newtimes@sa.uca.org.au
Advertising: Russell Baker, Ph 8361 6822, email ribad@bigpond.com
Circulation: Jo Watts, Ph 8236 4260, email jo@sa.uca.org.au
Production: Joie Creative
Printer: Cadillac Printing
Circulation: 12,000
Distribution: On the first Sunday of the month
Editorial deadline for October: 11 September
Advertising deadline for October: 13 September
New Times is published 11 times a year by the Uniting Church SA
Communications Unit.
Articles and advertising content do not necessarily reflect the views of
the editor or of the Uniting Church.
New Times articles and policies are published on the Uniting Church SA
website www.sa.uca.org.au.
Office: Level 2, 212 Pirie Street, Adelaide. GPO Box 2145 Adelaide, SA 5001.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
www.wesleykenttown.com
Courting Christian voters
Seven Uniting ChUrCh congregations in
South Australia viewed a live web-cast of
Prime Minister John howard and Labor leader
Kevin rudd last month, as the leaders talked
about their faith and political policies.
the event was organised by the Australian
Christian Lobby. Organisers said more than
100,000 people, in 700 churches across
the country, watched the forum which was
broadcast live from the national Press Club in
Canberra last month.
Mr howard took the opportunity to
elaborate on plans to give families computer
filters to stop internet pornography.
Mr rudd promoted Labor’s ir and housing
affordability policies. he also committed a
Labor government to boosting foreign aid.
Both leaders used the forum to rule out any
official recognition of gay marriage.
WeStern AUStrALiAn
church groups are appalled by
the government’s about-face
on uranium sales to india.
the joint social justice
bodies of the Uniting Church
in WA, the Anglican Church in
WA, the Catholic Archdiocese
of Perth and Partners for
Peace are disappointed at the
government’s decision to end
Australia’s ban on uranium
sales to india.
Uniting Church WA social
justice consultant rosemary
hudson Miller said it is
particularly worrying as india
has not signed the nuclear
Rev Elenie Poulos, from
UnitingJustice, who has
co-ordinated the election resources
on behalf of Assembly.
More than 50 people viewed the web-cast
in Port elliot Uniting Church, including people
from the nearby Anglican and Church of Christ
congregations.
Minister rev Alan Jones said he did not believe
the web-cast influenced anyone to change their
voting pattern
“there were few young people in our group
and at our age we don’t change horses easily,”
Alan said. “however, for those who were aware,
there were some nuances which would appeal to
more ‘justice’ centered people.
“it was not for us to endorse one or other
potential leader. Our task was to provide a
forum where each side could be fairly heard and
not be subject to the agenda being written by
interpretive media.
“Followers of Jesus need to heed his
challenge to use resources for the benefit of the
‘marginalized, the vulnerable and the oppressed.”
‘Growing a nation of hope’
From page 1.
the resources are not party
political. they are not designed
to direct votes but rather to
encourage members to explore
the implications of the gospel
when considering policies and
deciding how to vote.
the resources include a
booklet which explores some
of the major policy areas
and issues from a Christian
perspective. Areas covered
include climate change,
counter-terrorism and
human rights, indigenous
health, industrial relations,
aid and development, and
issues of reconciliation and
multiculturalism.
A copy of the booklet and
a set of ‘hot issues Briefs ’will
be posted to all congregations
early this month. the materials
will also be available on the
UnitingJustice website http://
nat.uca.org.au/unitingjustice/
together with a set of ‘issues
papers’.
rev elenie Poulos,
the national director of
UnitingJustice Australia,
coordinated the resources on
behalf of Assembly.
“We have a perfect
opportunity to remind our
election candidates that they
have responsibilities that
stretch well beyond a term or
two in office,” elenie said. “We
are electing them to help us
build a just, compassionate,
inclusive, educated and
creative society, to shape our
future and to secure a just and
peaceful world.
“‘growing a nation of hope’
explores some of the most
important areas of public
Uranium exports condemned
non Proliferation treaty.
“Our fears are heightened
as india has already made
and tested nuclear weapons,”
rosemary said.
“Australian uranium sales
will enhance the legitimacy of
india’s nuclear program. it will
be impossible for Australia to
critique any expansion of that
program while we are gaining
an economic benefit from it.
“the recent experience with
north Korea suggests that the
manufacturing and testing
of nuclear weapons is still a
priority for many countries.
policy and some burning
issues from the perspective of
Christian hope.
“it examines what is
happening now, how we could
imagine it differently and what
Federal government policy
needs to look like in order to
achieve that vision.”
Assembly President rev
gregor henderson is also asking
church members and others to
cast a vote of hope so that we
might build a nation of hope
together.
“Jesus has called us to
engage in god’s mission of
transformation for our world,”
gregor said. “Overturning
systems and structures of
oppression, caring for the sick
and the underprivileged and
building a world where god’s
values - grace, compassion,
justice, forgiveness, wholeness,
freedom and love - shape our
lives at every level.
“We have a particular
responsibility to work for peace
and justice in the world and
this responsibility extends to
thinking deeply and carefully
about the way we engage our
political representatives and
cast our vote.”
“every expansion of a nuclear
production program is a
potential threat to the security
of the region.
“exporting uranium to nontreaty
countries will serve to
undermine the treaty’s value
and set a negative precedent
for other signatories.
“Countries which haven’t
signed are not committed to
the exclusively peaceful use of
uranium. the treaty is founded
on the principles of nonproliferation,
disarmament and
the right to the peaceful use of
nuclear technology.”

N E W S
New Times
3
Government response ‘naïve’
RichaRd TRugen, author of ‘Why Warriors Lie
down and die’, believes the howard government
should be congratulated for tackling the “200year-old-problem”
of alcohol and sexual abuse
in aboriginal communities.
Richard was in adelaide recently and ran a
workshop at argent uniting church in Payneham
for church people and others interested in
developing a better understanding of indigenous
people and their culture.
he has more than 30 years experience working
and living with the Yolngu people in north east
arnhem Land. he is presently the ceO of aRdS
(aboriginal Resource and development Services)
based in nhulunbuy in the northern Territory.
Richard said while it is positive that the
government is willing to tackle problems in
indigenous communities, he is concerned that
the emergency response plan shows a high level
of naivety.
“The government seems to believe it can
solve problems by simply putting managers into
remote indigenous communities and having the
army there to play football,” he said.
“i’m concerned that 12 months down the
track, when indigenous people become totally
disillusioned because little has changed, we could
have riots.
Richard is also concerned about the “Trojan
horse aspect” of the government’s policy.
“Sadly one must ask if the ‘Little children are
Sacred Report’ and the violence seen in some
aboriginal communities are being used as a
Trojan horse to take away private protection
and property rights.
“The government’s intention to remove
the permit system required to enter remote
communities and to compulsorily acquire
indigenous property is simply exchanging one
form of abuse for another.”
he is concerned the government is trying
to create law and order while at the same
time perpetuating a situation that could create
greater lawlessness.
Richard believes effective communication is
the key to tackling indigenous problems.
“What is needed is some real, effective
communication where indigenous people
actually understand the issues.
“This doesn’t happen in one or two meetings,
it happens over a number of years.
“We need an adult education program that
offers indigenous people information and
knowledge in their languages. But we also need
to teach them english.
“a significant number of aboriginal people
cannot communicate in english. This restricts
their access to the news media, to education and
to the legal system.
“indigenous people are continuing to reap a
200-year-old colonial deficit.”
Alternative plan to stop abuse
The national aboriginal and Torres Strait
islander christian alliance (naTSica)
has devised an alternative to the Federal
government’s emergency response plan to
prevent indigenous child abuse.
at an alice Springs based summit in July,
naTSica members representing the country’s
major christian denominations developed
another plan grounded in traditional aboriginal
and islander spirituality and knowledge.
naTSica ceO and congress national
administrator Rev Shayne Blackman said while
positive government intervention was welcome,
it was just one part of a complex solution that
needed to be under girded by an indigenous
spiritual element.
“indigenous spirituality is a powerful force to
empower aboriginal people to take responsibility
for addressing the dysfunctional nature of some
communities.
“But we have a government that is not
engaging indigenous people in the community
development process.
“This is further marred by the government’s
superficial military-laced approach.
“This will only serve to demonize, stereotype
and further break the spirits of the indigenous
community.
“The government needs to engage indigenous
leaders who can implement programs that
affirm people, raise their spirits and inspire
them to change the direction of their
communities.
“Only then will people take ownership and
responsibility for their actions.”
Rev Blackman said the government first
needs to address issues such as the supply
of alcohol to indigenous communities,
overcrowding and inadequate housing.
he said the high cost of nutritious foods
and access to quality education were also
matters requiring urgent attention in remote
communities.
Aboriginal rights advocate Richard Trugen is concerned the Federal
Government is using the ‘Little Children are Sacred Report’ as an excuse
to compulsorily acquire Aboriginal land.
Insurance Savings for
Church Members
We save you time, money and effort by doing your Insurance
Shopping for you to obtain the best value policy coverage
from a range of reputable insurance companies.
That’s how we work for you... not insurance companies and
we help you to obtain prompt & fair claim settlements.
COMPARE & SAVE:
Home & Contents
Personal Valuables
Cars, Caravans & Boats
Landlords Protection
Strata Tile Units
Salary Protection
Travel Package
Business Insurance
Life & Superannuation
(A division of Donnelly Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd)
Monthly premium
payments facility for
your convenience
GPO Box 1833, Adelaide SA 5001
Level 1, 136 Frome Street,
Adelaide South Australia 5000
Email: cis@Donnellys.com.au
www.Donnellys.com.au/CCIS
Phone (08) 8236 7799 & ask for Gayle
BMD DI278
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

4 N E W S
‘Desert Spirituality’
The haunTing sound of a didgeridoo, the smell
of Lemon Scented gums and the vibrancy of
Sturt Desert Peas greeted members of the South
australian Presbytery and Synod in July – when
they turned up for a resourcing day on ‘Desert
Spirituality’ at Maughan Church.
Rev ian Robinson from Western australia was
the key-note speaker and he transported members
into a desert wilderness.
ian is a uniting Church minister and evangelist
and has just completed a doctorate in desert
spirituality and biblical traditions of the desert.
he is also involved in an organisation called
‘Spirit Journeys’ that offers desert journeys to
people wanting to explore the spiritual side of
their nature.
ian said the desert seems to have a deep impact
on people. “i recently received an email from a
young man who was profoundly effected,” he
said. “he hadn’t been to church since he was 15.
But out in the desert where we had Communion
using bush damper and water – he had an
epiphany while settling into his swag one night.”
ian explained how the desert is central
to Christianity and hebrew scripture and is
frequently depicted as a nurturing place in the
Bible.
he also illustrated through scripture how the
the desert is definitive of Jesus’ way and how
time in the desert book-ended Jesus’ public
ministry.
“So often the desert is thought of as a hostile,
life-less, god-forsaken place – with rippling
dunes and intolerable heat. it is also seen as a
place of great testing and punishment.
“Yet many people experience the desert as a
place of vibrancy and vitality.
“The desert wilderness is central to people’s
spiritual searches, particularly in australia.
“People’s spiritual searching today is fairly
autonomous and there is a strong rejection of
church and organised things.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
ian said the desert provides an opportunity
to appreciate silence. “When the noise on
the outside stops, the noise on the inside
can be heard. in stillness there is room for
contemplation. People find that god speaks
through the solitude.
“The desert also enables people to connect
with the land – and open up to enter the
mystery. One way to do this is by walking – the
holy Spirit seems to come up through the soles
of the feet. People encounter the web of life,
the intricacy of the tracks on the dunes, the
incredible connection with the wildlife.
“People feel swallowed up by the landscape
and realise they are a miniscule part of the
environment. When you’re moved beyond
words, you’re on spiritual turf.
“Some have described the desert as breathtakingly,
mind-bogglingly beautiful, with a
sense of the abundance and tenacity of life.
“They experience a sense of the vastness of
the earth. it offers an opportunity to connect
with our wondrous indigenous culture.
“another highlight is the sense of community
and connection that forms between those on a
desert journey.
Some people experience an incredible feeling
of belonging to something much greater. They
gain a sense that the earth is a single organism
– with one transcendent, Divine god.
“Some return home more critical about
themselves. Others return with a spirituality
of resistance – they resist globalisation and
relocate away from the cities.
“Some return with a sense of the wholeness
of the earth and become interested in ecojustice.
“Others return wanting to evangelise. When
you know the presence of god in yourself and
the land, you can’t keep it to yourself.
information about ‘Spirit Journeys’ can be
found at www.spiritjourneys.com.au.
Rev Ian Robinson from WA explained how the desert is a deeply spiritual
place during the July Presbytery and Synod resourcing day.
New model for
rural ministry
The uniTing ChuRCh Sa
wants to place ten half-time
‘resource ministers’ in rural
areas and has funding for these
positions for the next three
years.
One resource minister
has already been appointed.
Rev Dave Smith is based
in Burra and his position
is jointly funded by the
Burra congregation and the
Presbytery.
Dave is responsible for
ministry in Burra and for four
other congregations in the
district.
MRn mission planner Rev
Rob Stoner said resource
minsters represent a new model
of ministry that has become
necessary because many small
rural congregations are unable
to afford an ordained minister.
he said from now on the
majority of placements in
rural areas will be resourcing
ministry positions.
“These ministers will not
only lead the congregation in
which they are based, but will
also teach, train, encourage and
supervise a number of smaller,
usually lay-led congregations
in the surrounding region,” Rob
said.
The MRn is identifying
ministers who may be suitable
for resource ministry and an
in-service training program is
being designed for such people.
“ultimately we believe
that every minister in a rural
placement should be trained as
a resource minister and should
understand how the model
operates.
“Once finished the Strategic
Mapping project will help
us work out where to place
resource ministers.”

New Times
N E W S
‘Proud of new PSMN structure’
Synod mission Network
The commiTTee evaluating
the new PSmN arrangement
– (the Presbytery and Synod
of South Australia and its 13
mission networks) – is proud of
the new structure.
PSmN evaluation committee
chairperson Jan Trengove said
with a few modifications her
team believes the church can
move forward with confidence,
especially in light of the new
Strategic Plan which continues
to guide and inform the
church’s direction.
Jan made these remarks
while presenting an interim
report to the July Presbytery
and Synod meeting.
The committee, which
includes former moderators Rev
Dr charles Biggs and Rev Neale
michael, has a six point task:
• to evaluate the
effectiveness of the Presbytery
• to identify areas where
change is necessary to further
enhance the work of the
Presbytery of South Australia
and the Synod
• to look at boundary issues
between matters that are the
responsibility of the Presbytery
and the mission networks.
• to review the resourcing
needs of mission networks
• to review the size and
composition of Standing
committee
• to report back to the
Presbytery and Synod.
Jan said the team has
consulted extensively with
each mission network, various
church bodies and church
members.
“There have been many,
many hours of conversation
From left, new ministers Rev Simon Dent, Rev Tony Goodluck and Rev Ruthmary Bond on a spiritual retreat with
Moderator Rev Graham Vawser just prior to their ordinations at the end of July.
Ministers ordained
The Uniting church SA has three newly ordained
ministers.
Rev Simon Dent, Rev Tony Goodluck and Rev
Ruthmary Bond were ordained during a special
service in maughan church at the end of July.
Ruthmary is a minister of the Word at
with many people,” Jan said.
“But we need to have some
more conversations before we
can present a comprehensive
final report. “There has been
a generally positive response -
people have been honest, open
and helpful in their reflections.
“Sadly not all networks or
member congregations know
why they exist.
“of the 13 networks only
four are achieving their
objectives with a lot of success
and perhaps only one can be
classed as a stand-out in that
respect.
“Some networks are
struggling and believe they will
continue to struggle in their
present form.
“This is causing us to
question if we have too
many networks, with too
few strong enough to fulfil
Kensington Park Uniting church, Tony is
the minister at mitcham Uniting church and
Simon is at clare Uniting church.
The Presbytery has also agreed that Karyn
Sands and Robert Britton are ready to be
ordained as ministers of the Word.
their memorandum of
understanding.
Jan said there is also
concern about pastoral care
and the functioning of the
placements committee.
“There is still some
continuing grief at the loss of
the previous presbyteries. There
is a perceived lack of effective
ministry and appropriate
oversight of ministers
and a need for greater
communication between the
Pastoral Relations committee
and Placements committee.
“We believe it will be
necessary to separate Pastoral
Relations committee and
Placements committee and to
create a new way to attend to
pastoral relations issues and
procedures.
“This may mean a small
increase in staffing levels.”
The committee also believes
Standing committee may need
to be enlarged in order to carry
out its work more effectively.
Jan Trengove believes the new PSMN
(Presbytery Synod Mission Network)
structure will work well with some
modifications.
Centre for Leadership Development
The UNiTiNG chURch SA’s
proposed new leadership
institute will be based at
Parkin-Wesley Theological
college. The institute and
college will be collectively
known as the centre for
leadership Development.
A proposal to co-locate the
two institutions was approved
at the recent meeting of the
Presbytery and Synod of South
Australia.
The two institutions will
share administrative resources
and facilities.
The church has advertised
for a director for the leadership
Strategic Plan update
coNSiDeRABle progress is
being made in implementing
aspects of the Uniting church
SA’s new Strategic Plan.
General Secretary Rev Dr
Graham humphris told members
at the Presbytery and Synod
meeting that the core teams
working on ‘Raising leaders’,
‘Fostering conversion Growth’
and ‘championing Justice’ are
making headway.
The core teams working on
‘Raising our Profile’, ‘Growing
Disciples’ and ‘Developing New
institute and hopes someone
will be appointed and working
in the position from January 1
next year.
The new centre for
leadership Development will be
governed by a council and an
executive officer.
Rev Dr ian Price who
convenes the leadership
Development team said
Presbytery and Synod members
responded positively to the new
integrated model.
members also want to see
leadership Studies come under
the management of the new
leadership institute.
models’ are working on plans
that will start to roll out next
year
Graham urged all members to
learn more about the Strategic
Plan by ordering a Strategic
Plan DVD or organising
a speaker through project
manager linda Bastick. linda
can be contacted on 8236 4212
or email future@sa.uca.org.au.
linda is also able to provide
Strategic Plan information to
members through the special
newsletter called ‘future@sa.uca’.
5
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

6 N E W S
Philippines partnership affirmed
Bishop Mariano Inong from our partner church the North Luzon Jurisdiction of the United Church of Christ
in the Philippines with International Mission officer Lyn Leane.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
The UniTing ChUrCh SA has
reaffirmed its partnership with
the north Luzon Jurisdiction of
the United Church of Christ in
the Philippines.
The original partnership
agreement was signed in 1992.
it has been updated and was
re-signed during the recent
Presbytery and Synod meeting
by Bishop Mariano inong, (the
Bishop of the north Luzon
Jurisdiction) and the Moderator
and general Secretary.
Bishop Mariano briefly
addressed the meeting,
bringing greetings from his
church.
he said the north Luzon
Jurisdiction is spread over
76,000 square kilometres and
has a population of 20 million
people.
Within this area the
United Church of Christ
has approximately 500
congregations, with an
average of 150 people. Some
congregations have more than
1,000 members.
‘Leadership for Life’ weekend
Keren DeBoo
For The 24 young people who
attended the eArTh ‘Leadership
for Life’ weekend at the end
of July, leadership is not just
hosting a Bible study or being
a youth leader. Leadership is
living.
The focus of the weekend
was on the practical integration
of faith with life and politics.
eArTh project officer
Deanna howland believes
young people are leaders in
many different ways.
“We’re leaders in our
workplaces and our
communities, by the way we
live and the choices we make.
“Leadership might be looking
at politics, looking at the way
you live your life, and how you
follow your calling,” she said.
Dr Deidre Palmer, Christian
education lecturer at Parkin
Wesley College, was the
keynote speaker, telling
young people it is important
to understand the connection
between faith and daily life.
“it’s important that in
every aspect of their lives,
whether it be work, study,
or relationships, that young
people can work out of a
framework inspired by their
relationship with god and their
Christian discipleship,” Deidre
said.
“Jesus came to give us life
and life in all its fullness,
so it’s not just about getting
by, it’s about thriving and
flourishing as human beings.
“The gospel of Christ relates
to every aspect of our lives
and that’s why that kind
of leadership in the wider
community is really important.
Christ calls us to be engaged in
god’s mission in the world.”
For the delegates, it was a
good opportunity to network
with other young people from
around the state.
During the weekend
delegates also participated in
‘Mission immersion’.
They went in small
groups to a range of service
organisations around Adelaide,
to learn about issues as varied
as environmentally stable
living, domestic violence and
Sudanese culture.
Both the Uniting Church
SA and the United Church of
Christ in the Philippines are
keen to revive a congregational
‘twinning’ project.
Bishop Mariano later said his
church was greatly encouraged
by Uniting Church people
being prepared to listen to their
stories and share their faith
journey.
he said 17 ministers from
his church have been killed
and several others jailed
because they had been critical
of government programs and
policies exploiting Filipino
people.
“Because of this and our
human rights programs we
become a target,” he said.
“Many of us are branded as
Communist supporters and a
number of our workers and
ministers are murdered and
jailed without charge.”
The Bishop also said his
jurisdiction is in a typhoon belt
area and can experience more
than 20 typhoons in a year
– causing great hardship to
grain farmers in the region.
Lay preachers
recognised
The exTenSive long service
of many of the church’s 276 lay
preachers has been recognised
with certificates presented to
many by the Moderator.
Lay preachers recognised
for 60 years service were eric
Paschke (Mount Barker), geoff
Pike (Brighton) and Brian
Jeffries (rosefield).
george Wood (Salisbury) was
recognised for 55 years service
and Peter Bird (Belair), Colin
Brideson (Seacombe), David
Dent (Taperoo), Don hopgood
(Trinity, Christies Beach), iain
Kilpatrick (Tea Tree gully),
Brian robertson (Seacombe),
Milton rowe (Port elliott) and
Keith Wotton (Summertown) for
50 years.
Peter Jeffries ( Myponga)
and Don Sarre (Beaumont)
were recognised for 40
years service. Craig Bailey
(Aberfoyle Park), Colin Beaton
(Coromandel), nigel Croser
(Tusmore Memorial), Jim
hayward (Westbourne Park),
John howland (Aberfoyle Park)
and John Pratt (Church of the
Trinity, Clarence Park) have
served for 30 years.
Lay Preachers Committee
secretary Max howland would
like to hear from lay preachers
to ensure records are acurate.
Contact Max on 8296 2508 or
at mhowland@internode.on.net

New Times
Building relationships: Young people from Aberfoyle Uniting Church, (including Elliot Modra bottom
right) and the UAICC community of Pututja near Ernabella.
Covenanting with Indigenous people
Jane Bean and others from the Journey
Christian Church recently spent a weekend
with the UAICC in Port Augusta on a cross
cultural mission trip. Jane tells of a confronting
experience that opened their eyes and hearts to
the plight of Aboriginal people.
Saturday morning and the sun was warm
in port Augusta. Our group of 35 arrived at
the Uniting Aboriginal and islander Christian
Congress Church to meet leaders and share
morning tea.
god was present. no matter the basic
surroundings, nor the colour of our skin, there
was an overwhelming acknowledgement of His
presence. Three amazing daughters of god told
us the history of the region and the story of the
Aboriginal people.
Auntie Denise gave us the historical facts.
The tragedy of indigenous languages lost over
time; the indignities suffered by Aboriginal
people and the ongoing need for tolerance,
assistance, understanding and most of all, love.
Auntie Joanne gave us a traditional
pitjatjanjara welcome. i felt honoured.
Rachael, social worker and daughter of
Rev Hohaia Matthews, sang for us in her first
language, Maori. Her wonderful voice filled the
church without accompaniment.
Over morning tea we learned more about
Auntie Denise and Auntie Joanne. They were
taken from their families – part of the stolen
generation. We also learned that Aboriginal
people were still classed under the Flora and
Fauna Act until the 1970’s.
As we travelled to the Umewarra Mission we
came across a place of transition for Aboriginal
people. We saw tents, shaped like humpies,
erected over dry, red dirt in an area fenced like
a cage. it made Baxter Detention Centre look
like a five star hotel. Feelings of desolation and
sadness overwhelmed us.
At the Davenport Community we were
greeted by Uncle Reg who was busily cooking
and tending three fires. Suddenly people
appeared from all over – inquisitive about
us. We sat around the fires watching, talking,
learning about each other and taking in the
beauty of the red scrub and ranges beyond.
There was much chatter and laughter as the
women made damper. Flies were everywhere
drawn by the aroma of sausages, also on the BBQ
plate. lunch was interesting. i tried Kangaroo tail
soup and roasted Kangaroo tail – with the fur still
on.
We sat in the red dirt and ate and talked
together. Bonds were formed. This is the best way
to really communicate with Aboriginal people.
My heart melted when i met nine month old
leo. He smiled and laughed as he was handed
from person to person. i marveled at his polished
brown face. But his legs and arms were covered
in disfiguring scars. Scabies - common amongst
Aboriginal children and it scars for life. god was
slowly revealing the plight of our indigenous
brothers and sisters.
i was again challenged when we visited
Tjinatjunanyi – a school providing a positive
learning environment for indigenous students
who had left mainstream education.
Despite a lack of resources, papa Joe, Uncle
Reg, Auntie Denise, Auntie Joanne and others
from the Congress Church were helping these
students reintegrate into mainstream schooling.
These kids were receiving a basic education, life
skills and cultural training with scant resources
and poor equipment. My heart broke as i took in
the surroundings - a third world environment in
a first world country.
That evening we shared worship. Singing in
pitjatjanjara was an amazing experience. The
depth of their spirituality was profound. god’s
spirit was overwhelmingly present – fostering
encouragement and discomfort at the same time.
Rev Hohaia Matthews asked us what we had
done for Aboriginal people. i couldn’t think
of a thing. i was just a little indignant at his
implication that white people would determine
the future of indigenous people. Yet i knew
he was right; as the majority of voters in this
country are white, we can shape the future of the
Aboriginal people and their culture.
What would i choose to do? Sweep the issues
under the carpet, or covenant to support my
brothers and sisters.
god is calling us to support Congress and its
work with indigenous people. We have been
challenged. We’ll keep you posted.
M A G A Z I N E
Pututja mission
Helping the UAiCC (Uniting
Aboriginal and islander
Christian Congress) community
in pututja, near ernabella was
a life changing experience
for at least one member of
an Aberfoyle Uniting Church
mission team that visited the
community recently.
eleven year old elliot Modra,
(son of Aberfoyle UC’s shed
pastor Roger Modra) said he
now looks at people differently
after spending ten days at
pututja.
A group of 24 people from
Aberfoyle travelled to pututja
to repair a house for the
chairperson of Congress in the
area, Katrina Tjitay.
Roger said the project also
involved relationship building
through a host of craft, games,
sport and musical activities.
“Our team was well suited
to the task, with musicians,
mechanics, a plumber, builder,
electrician, nurses and cooks,”
Roger said.
“Our young people forged
some powerful relationships
with the young people on the
homeland, mainly because
they played sports (footy,
soccer, softball) all day long.”
“We spent ten days working,
relating, playing, visiting
sacred sites and eating
Witchetty grubs, Kangaroo
tails and Honey ants.
“The most wonderful times
were talking and singing and
worshipping together around
the campfire at nights.
“There were many tears
when we were saying our
goodbyes. We felt incredibly
blessed by their generosity
and acceptance of us from the
moment we arrived.
“everyone wants to go again
– especially the young folk.”
The Uniting Foundation
provided $8,000 for the
$30,000 project. The homeland
and Aberfoyle Uniting Church
both contributed $2,000 and
the rest was covered through
donations.
7
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

8 M A G A Z I N E
New Times
Café playgroup launched in Hills
Belinda Knight (with baby Hugo) has launched a café style playgroup at Bridgewater Uniting Church
to support parents and carers.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
Dreary winter house-bound
days in the adelaide Hills
provided the inspiration and
motivation to form one of the
newest Uniting Church Sa
playgroups.
Playmates – a café
playgroup with music was
launched in the Bridgewater
Uniting Church hall last
month.
Coordinator Belinda Knight,
a former communications
specialist, who is now at
home with baby Hugo, was
conscious of the need for
somewhere safe in the Hills
where parents could take
young children during the
wet winter months.
“Lots of hills-based people
are from interstate and
overseas and often they don’t
have family support or local
connections,” Belinda said.
“Mums, dads and carers in
this situation can quickly feel
housebound and isolated.
“Playmates offers an
opportunity for people to
get to know each other
over a coffee in a relaxing
environment.
“Bridgewater UC has only
four families with young
children – so we are starting
out small – but hope to build
to have at least ten families
attending.
“Our minister and church
council have been extremely
supportive and we have
several volunteers who are
helping provide morning tea
and cut fruit for the children.
“Providing decent coffee
was one of the first things on
our agenda – we can’t afford
a coffee machine, but at least
we will have real plunger
coffee.
“We’re now thinking about
fundraising for toys, balls,
games and other equipment.”
Belinda said while
Playmates would offer an
opportunity for church
members to share their faith
she believes this will be “more
by showing than telling”.
“We just want to show we
are here to help and support
people in the community,”
she said.
“a church membership
drive is not on our agenda
– but certainly if people
express an interest, we would
welcome that.”
KCO earlier next year
KCO will be held slightly earlier next year
– on april 12 and 13 at adelaide Shores
Caravan resort.
Uniting Church Sa events manager
Linda Driver said after this year’s KCO was
cancelled due to heavy rain, it was vital that
an earlier date was negotiated for next year.
“The event will be held on the first
weekend of the school holidays, so we’ll be
promoting it as an end of term party,” said
Linda.
“Next year will also be the 30th
anniversary of KCO – another great reason
to celebrate. We’re exploring special ways
to celebrate our 30th Birthday that will be
relevant to campers.
“It’s possible that next year may be the
last year that KCO will be held at adelaide
Shores as we are unable to hire the venue
at a time when we can be sure of good
weather.
“We’re establishing a new team to look
for an alternative venue in 2009. We
need a site that will offer plenty of room
for expansion and also one that will be
available much earlier in the year.
“In the meantime we are mindful that
we need to learn from our unfortunate
experience this year.”
When you are swept off your feet, land on your knees

New Times
M A G A Z I N E
Church playgroups support families
ChurCh-based playgroups
are playing a vital role
connecting and supporting
people in local communities.
MrN children’s mission
planner heidi Jane harding
believes playgroups are so
important to community
health that she is developing
a network of uniting Church
playgroups across the state.
“Playgroups help build
positive relationships
between carers and children
by providing a focussed
play time away from the
distractions of home,” heidi
Jane said.
“Playgroups also build
strong relationships
between parents, carers and
grandparents. They offer a
positive environment where
life-long relationships can
develop and flourish.
“These relationships can be
a great source of wisdom and
support through tough times.”
heidi Jane believes
playgroups also enable
Christians to demonstrate
practical love.
“The unchurched people
attending playgroups often
ask why organisers and
supporters give up their
time to care for others. This
is another positive aspect
as it can help dissolve
preconceived ideas of the
Church as an institution.
attendees begin to see the
Church as a caring group of
people.”
heidi Jane stresses that
playgroups are not designed
to get families to sign up as
church members.
“Playgroups should not be
recruiting grounds – however
if this is the end result, that is
a positive outcome.
“but I believe the primary
Uniting Church SA children’s mission planner Heidi Jane Harding is
keen to develop a support and equipment sharing network for churchbased
playgroups throughout South Australia. .
Henley Fulham’s playgroups build connections
heNley FulhaM uniting Church runs
four playgroups from two church sites and
organisers firmly believe playgroups help
build stronger connections between the
congregation and the local community.
Two of the congregation’s playgroups
cater for toddlers and two for babies.
Playgroup coordinator leanne smith said
the groups have grown mainly through
word-of-mouth.
“We’ve found playgroups are particularly
valuable as they provide an opportunity to
break down barriers between the church and
the community,” leanne said.
“Once people get used to coming onto
church sites and meet our members
they often start to explore other church
programs.
“some of our playgroup families are
now attending our easter and Christmas
programs.”
Minister Malcolm rawlings agreed that
playgroups are a great way to build stronger
community connections.
One of the playgroups on the
congregation’s Temple site on Military road
is supported by Child and youth health.
Malcolm said it’s a great arrangement
where links are made using Child and youth
health’s resources and expertise and the
church’s facilities.
“It’s an opportunity to provide parenting
information, friendship and fellowship,
while recognising the joys and struggles of
being a parent or carer,” he said.
function of church-based
playgroups is to enable
Christians to demonstrate
unconditional love and
service to families in their
local communities.”
heidi Jane is keen to hear
from any congregations with
playgroups so she may list
them on the MrN section
of the uniting Church sa
website: www.sa.uca.org.au.
Nearly 30 uniting Church
based playgroups are listed
so far.
heidi Jane said network
members are able to provide
helpful advice and support to
fledgling church playgroups
seeking information on
finance, equipment and
programs.
heidi can be contacted via
email: heidi@sa.uca.org.au or
call 8236 4281.
a number of playgroup children
have been baptised in the congregation.
Playgroup families also attend family fun
nights and get involved in other church
related activities.
“Getting playgroup children to attend
sunday school is not necessarily the
goal,” Malcolm said.
“We just want to encourage families to
see that the church and its members have
something valuable to offer.”
Toddlers attending the Henley Fulham
Uniting Church’s Monday morning
playgroup at Fulham.
9
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

N E W S
Campbelltown UC expands
10 New Times
Examining expansion plans: (from left) Nicola Irvine, a manager
from the Domestic Violence Service, Campbelltown UC minister Rev
Gillies Ambler and member Peter Rumbelow.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
Campbelltown UC is
expanding so it can extend its
outreach possibilities.
the congregation supports
people who have suffered
domestic violence, migrants
and refugees and people who
are socially isolated.
In order to extend the type
of support available on site,
the congregation is building
new offices, seminar rooms,
a kitchen and toilet facilities
behind the church hall.
Congregation member peter
Rumbelow, who co-chairs the
redevelopment task group with
minister Gillies ambler, said
the project will cost between
$350,000 and $400,000.
It will be funded by a
$100,000 grant from the
Uniting Foundation as well as
grants of an equal amount from
state and local government and
other organisations. the rest
will come from church reserves,
local fundraising and a Synod
loan.
Defacto aid agency
peter said the outreach
redevelopment project grew
from the fact that the church is
already operating as a defacto
aid agency.
“people just seem to turn up
on our front-door-step,” peter
said. “So we thought if we
have all this land and we are
so well situated for transport
– wouldn’t it be better to host
the other aid agencies here?
“this church has a very
sympathetic atmosphere and
with agencies like UnitingCare
wesley adelaide and bowden,
and Families Sa agreeing to
operate from our premises
– people will be able to come
here and have all their needs
professionally met.”
the church has a strongly
supportive relationship with
the Central Domestic Violence
Service in the eastern region.
In association with the
Campbelltown Rotary Club,
(which many church members
belong to) the congregation
provides toiletries and toys for
women and children fleeing
from violence.
the church and rotary club
also work together collecting
unwanted household goods and
delivering them to people in
need.
Saving grace
Domestic Violence Service
spokesperson nicola Irvine
describes Campbelltown UC as
the organisation’s saving grace.
“women experiencing
domestic violence are so
frightened and traumatised
that once they reach us they
don’t want to go back into the
community,” she said.
“Having to access various
agencies for further help puts
pressure on them. but they
feel comfortable going to the
church for assistance.
“many of these women
are so traumatised they
simply can’t understand the
congregation’s generosity and
kindness - they have never
experienced anything like it.”
Gillies said the church is
able to access many resources,
unlike the women it supports
who have often moved away
from family, friends and other
support networks.
“they are very vulnerable
and in financial hardship,” he
said. “often they are migrants
who come here on a spouse
visa and are unable to access
government benefits or
assistance.
“we often support these
women for up to six months
– meeting their social, spiritual
and physical needs. we
provide funds for chemists’
bills, school uniforms and bus
tickets and our help is always
unconditional.
Deeply meaningful
“this mission field is
deeply meaningful to the
whole congregation. we
are continuously touched
by stories of hardship and
frequently moved to tears. It’s
such a privilege to be able to
help.”
Sometimes the women who
have been helped join the
congregation, or show their
appreciation by supporting
church programs.
nicola has seen many lives
turned around through respect
and encouragement. “the
intense support we can give
these women in partnership
with the church starts the
healing process,” she said.
“when they feel supported
and loved they start to mend.
we help them move through a
transition period and back to
independence.”
the congregation hopes
redevelopment work will
start later this year and be
completed between april and
June next year.
Gillies prefers to focus on
caring for those in need rather
than on the redevelopment.
“the important story
is helping brave women
traumatised by domestic
violence to create a new life for
themselves and their children,”
he said.

New Times N E W S
Fostering a ‘culture of conversion’
“When was the last time you
heard someone tell the story of
how they came to Christ?”
That’s the burning question
on Rev Beth Seaman’s mind.
Beth heads the team charged
with developing a culture
of conversion growth in the
church – a key direction in
the Uniting Church SA’s new
Strategic Plan.
Beth believes it’s time we
started sharing our personal
conversion stories.“It’s time
for us to reclaim the power of
our story, that moment we said
‘yes’,” said Beth.
“We all have a story that God
longs for us to tell. This will be
a vital element in developing a
culture of conversion.”
Beth recognises that
changing the church’s culture
will demand fearlessness,
energy and passion.
Australians’ reluctance to
share their conversion stories
is well recognised and has
been documented by Monash
University professor and
sociologist Gary Bouma.
In his book ‘Australian
Soul’ Bouma states “it is not
characteristically Australian to
trumpet encounters with the
spiritual … Australians hold
the spiritual in their hearts,
speaking tentatively about it”.
Beth has invited Gary
to speak to the ten local
congregations that are now
engaged in a ‘Conversion
Growth’ pilot study.
Pilot study
Representatives from these
congregations have joined her
original Conversion Growth
Core Team which includes
MRn executive officer Rev Dr
Ian Price, Malvern and Unley
minister Rev Jonathan Davies
and Parkin-Wesley College
lecturer Rev Tony eldridge.
The core team plus
leaders from Adelaide West,
Blackwood, Christ Church, Port
Adelaide, Port Pirie, Rosefield,
Tea Tree Gully, The Shed (Men’s
Spirituality group at Aberfoyle
UC), Waikerie and Whyalla
are exploring the nature of
conversion together.
Beth says this will include
“biblical, theological, social and
psychological conversion”, plus
“preaching and pastoring for
conversion”.
The journeys of the ten
congregations will eventually
be made available as a resource
for the wider church. The team
is meeting monthly this year
and has begun sharing their
stories.
Whyalla’s story
Rev Greg Pearce from
Whyalla Uniting Church has
spoken to the pilot group
about the changing community
profile in the town.
“Whyalla used to be a
welfare area, but with the
mining boom it has become
quite an expensive place to
live,” he says. There’s also quite
a bit of movement between
the different denominations in
Whyalla.
Greg believes there needs
to be more faith sharing for
effective conversion – “I don’t
expect programs to do the trick.
The congregation is praying
for evangelism and growth and
slowly we are starting to see
people share their faith.”
Greg is also encouraging the
congregation to become more
mission focussed and to tap
into the younger generation.
Adelaide West
Adelaide West Uniting
Church’s story has been one
of rapid growth since it was
formed from four congregations
more than four years ago.
Minister Ashley Davis says
the congregation now has five
worshipping communities and
a lot of growth has come from
outreach work in schools. “We
have lots of conversions and
baptisms of young people who
have never been to church
before,” he said.
Adelaide West youth pastor
neil Milton said the youth
Some of those involved in fostering a culture of conversion growth in the church, from left Rev Derek Schiller, Rev
Sean Gilbert, Rev Leanne Jenski and team leader Rev Beth Seaman.
group has grown from seven
to 70 with the original focus
widening from games and
fun to encompass worship,
preaching and leadership
development.
“We want to equip, empower
and send these young people
out as leaders … our vision is
to transform the youth of this
city,” neil said.
Christ Church
Christ Church - the home
of the Progressive Christianity
network and the effective
Living Centre - is a Liberal
Protestant community and
a place where members can
expand their theological
thinking.
Minister Rev Sean Gilbert
says the congregation is
interested in spiritual formation
and conversion and is very
evangelical. “There’s a
misconception that Liberalism
is not evangelical – we are,”
he said. “We also try to be
respectful of other traditions.
“We see conversion as a lifelong
journey, not a once off
event. It’s about deepening our
humanity along the way.”
Between 40 and 80 people
worship at Christ Church on
Sundays. The congregation
includes many professional and
retired people but is finding it
a challenge to attract younger
members.
Blackwood
Blackwood Uniting Church,
situated at the intersection
of five roads at the main
round-about at Blackwood has
“location, location, location”
says minister Rev Leanne
Jenski.
“Our vision is to be an
inclusive Christian community,
committed to justice, learning,
service and care – everything
we do involves these four
things.”
The congregation is involved
in a wealth of projects both
locally and globally. But
Leanne confesses – “we’re great
at justice and service, but not
so good at sharing our faith.”
The congregation will work
on integrating people from its
week-day community outreach
programs into the life of the
church on Sundays.
11
Waikerie
Rev Derek Schiller from
Waikerie Uniting Church
says God has blessed his
congregation with an incredible
cross-section of the community,
reflecting the diversity of the
area.
he says theology is central to
the congregation’s conversion
growth strategy. “Preaching
the Gospel is at the centre of
everything and the message of
Salvation.
“We pour out lavish
grace to all and reflect the
unconditional love of God to
others.
“An important part of
evangelism is praying for
people and praying that God
will convert them. As we
preach the gospel, God has sent
us people – and we see these
people converted and set free.”
The congregation is now
looking for a mission and
evangelism worker.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

M A G A Z I N E
12 New Times
Emerging church in Cambodia
Rev John Barr
Phnom Penh’s railway station
is a grand old colonial building
that has seen better days. Like
much of the city, the facades
of the station tell a story of
past splendour, violated by
violence and war.
These days the few trains
that leave Phnom Penh are
slow and dilapidated. Yet the
grand old station is gaining
a new lease of life from
a growing community of
squatters.
many are rural people
looking for work, while others
include orphans and people
suffering from tuberculosis and
hIV/AIDs. These people are
Phnom Penh’s outcasts.
Cambodia is a beautiful
country with a rich tradition
and a remarkable history
dating back to the Angkor
Kingdom. Yet modern
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
Cambodia is overshadowed
by its recent past. Pol Pot’s
infamous ‘killing fields’ haunt
the population. no one remains
untouched by this brutal
period.
Between 1.5 and 2 million
people or a quarter of the
population died as a result
of starvation, disease, forced
labour and execution when
the Khmer Rouge ruthlessly
restructured society.
The consequences were
both terrifying and disastrous.
Phnom Penh’s Tuol sleng
Torture museum and Choeung
ek extermination Camp bear
witness to this.
These days around 85 per
cent of Cambodia’s population
are poor farmers who live off
the land, suffering regular
floods and famine. many
desperate country folk move to
the cities looking for work.
These children are squatters in a railway yard in Phnom Penh,
Cambodia, recently visited by Rev John Barr from Uniting International
Mission.
Dr Sem Sitha treats people from the squatter community in his railway station clinic in Cambodia’s capital,
Phnom Penh.
one result of this is the
small ‘city’ of makeshift timber
buildings next to Phnom Penh
station. The railway yards
double as a place for children
to play, for people to meet and
for communities to hang out
their washing. Government
officials simply look the other
way.
one man who hasn’t looked
away is Dr sem sitha. he
survived the Pol Pot era but
lost his entire family during
the Khmer Rouge rule. he was
raised an orphan but received
a good education with support
from a number of international
welfare organisations.
While attending medical
school, Dr sitha became a
Christian. Dr sitha believes he
owes everything to the grace
and mercy of God. he is certain
God has given him life to help
others.
Dr sitha’s has established
a clinic in the squatter
community near the station
offering basic services to
people who otherwise would
have no medical care.
he has also established a
small congregation which
gathers for worship on
sundays and meets for Bible
study during the week.
Dr sitha believes his
commitment to the squatter
community is a logical
outworking of his new found
faith in Christ.
During the Khmer Rouge
rule religion was outlawed.
But in the post-Pol Pot period
faith is being re-established
from the grassroots. A
fresh, indigenous form of
Christianity is emerging in
many places, including the
Phnom Penh railway station.
Dr sitha’s small congregation
bears the name ‘The Light
of Life Church’. It is a fragile
community with members who
carry trauma from the past and
struggle with unemployment,
homelessness and illness.
The Uniting Church in
Australia is committed to
working with the poorest of
the poor and to supporting
local, Indigenous expressions
of church. We also want to
encourage these communities
to participate in the wider life
and the witness of our global
ecumenical networks.
The church is emerging
again in Cambodia, offering
important opportunities for us
to share in its growing witness.
• Rev John Barr is the
executive secretary – Asia with
Uniting International Mission.
He recently spent time with Dr
Sitha in Cambodia.

New Times
A taste of Indigenous life
Yo. Narra Yäku Liana. Nhamirri nhe?
Manymak? Hi my name is Liana, how are you?
Good?
That was some of the Yulgnu matha
(language) I learnt whilst participating in ‘About
Face 8’ - a Uniting Church faith and culture
exchange into remote indigenous communities.
I was placed in North East Arnhem Land, in
Ramingining. I was adopted into their intricate
kinship system and given the skin name
‘Narratjan’- an honour.
During the 12 days I spent in Ramingining
and in surrounding outstations I had authentic
experiences with the Yolgnu culture and
Rom (law). I learnt what it is like to be in the
minority group, being one of few Balanda
(Europeans) amongst the Yulgnu people.
I was surprised to find that many of the
Yulgnu people speak up to 12 languages,
including English. I was astounded at how
accepted and welcomed I was. Many people
took time to teach me about different aspects of
their culture. I had language lessons around the
campfire and went hunting for bush-tucker such
as Long Neck Turtle, yam, duck and Mud-crab.
The Yolgnu were proud to share their culture
and I felt blessed to hear so many of their
stories and to be shown many burial sites. It
was great to just ‘be’ with them and to build
relationships.
Liana Brice spent time with Indigenous people in
North East Arnhem Land while talking part in About
FACE 8, a UCA faith and cultural exchange program.
During my journey I witnessed the tension that
exists between the Western way of life and the
traditional Indigenous lifestyle. I experienced the
dysfunction of households with low standards
of nutrition and hygiene and some of the other
heartbreaking issues that face the Indigenous
people today. My experience has inspired me to
do what I can to help Indigenous people move
forward into a brighter future.
- Liana Brice
Help Iraqi Christians
The NCCA (National Council of Churches in
Australia) is calling on Australians to do more
to address the humanitarian crisis in Iraq and
neighbouring countries.
NCCA is encouraging member churches to pray
for Christians and other religious minorities.
It also wants churches to urge the Australian
Government and other governments to assist
refugees, particularly Christians who have
been singled out for persecution, by providing
financial assistance and granting humanitarian
and other visas.
NCCA general secretary Rev John Henderson
said Australian Christians must recognise there
is a grave and escalating humanitarian crisis in
the Middle East.
He said more than 500,000 Iraqis have been
displaced since the 2006 Samarra bombings,
with between 2,000 and 3,000 Iraqis leaving
every day.
M A G A Z I N E
UCA condemns process of
Indigenous intervention
UNITING CHURCH leaders have expressed alarm at the way
legislation has evolved relating to the Government’s Northern
Territory Indigenous intervention.
Uniting Church President Rev Gregor Henderson said the
legislation is significant, over-riding aspects of the Race
Discrimination and Native Title Acts.
“Yet it merited only a one-day Senate hearing that did not
consult with some of the key stakeholders,” Gregor said.
“UCA agencies and members who work and live in the affected
communities are dismayed at the process and fearful of the
possible consequences of legislation on the permit system and
land tenure.”
Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress national
administrator Rev Shayne Blackman said the process showed a
lack of respect for the Indigenous people most affected.
“This legislation has been underpinned by ferocious and hasty
so-called ‘reforms’ laced with military style coercion,” said
Shayne. “It has not been fully negotiated with those Northern
Territory communities.
“The Government has chosen to pursue populist policies and
temporary solutions which will further push Indigenous rights
and responsibilities to the fringes.
“The child abuse crisis is just one of a series of symptomatic
societal crises in Indigenous communities resulting from a legacy
of failed policies.
“These problems need long-term, sustainable, fullycosted
solutions and must be backed up by political will and
commitment.”
60x48mm Advert
Confused by tax?
Need to lodge
a Tax Return?
Friendly
Service
DIRECT TAX SERVICES
www.directtaxservices.com.au
Specializing in quick & efficient
Tax Return preparation
& electronic lodgement.
13
67 King William Road, Unley
Ph: 8291 8512
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

14 M A G A Z I N E
New Times
STATE MISSION FELLOWSHIP
will be held on Tuesday 25
September 2007 at 10.30am at
Scots Church North Terrace.
Speakers are Rev Nita West,
Volunteer in Mission, Chaplain
at Vellore Christian Hospital,
India and Rev. John Minchin,
International Mission Officer
Presbytery and Synod will share
about his recent visit to P.N.G.
Lunch $2.50, available at 12
noon. Enquiries Joy Dunning
8295 7745.
PROFESSOR CLIVE Pearson,
principal of the UCA’s
theological college in Sydney
will speak at the next Urban
Mission Network gathering on
“public church-public theology”,
at the Church of the Trinity (318
Goodwood Road, Clarence Park),
September 8, from 10.30am til
3.00pm. Enquiries to Rev Dr
Dean Eland on 8172 2133 or
elandhme@bigpond.net.au.
REV SANDY BOYCE is to
be inducted as National Faith
Development consultant in the
national Assembly at Rosefield
UC, 2 Carlton St, Highgate on
September 2 at 5.30pm. Speaker
- Craig Mitchell and guests Rev
Glenda Blakefield (associate
general secretary, Assembly)
and Rev Mark Hillis (national
director, Christian Education).
KEEPING TO THE WORD
I’m glad our church didn’t join the
Progressive Christianity Network SA if it
condones lecturers in the nature of Bishop
John Spong.
While ministers persistently bend
the rules to become more acceptable
to unbelievers, little by little they will
lose their congregation because they are
undermining their belief and faith. This
is also unlikely to attract more people to
follow Jesus.
When ministers teach that Christianity
is based on Jesus who is the Son of God
who died and rose again so that we can
be forgiven and receive salvation and
have eternal life, that will encourage both
the congregation and community. A lot
of people are searching for something in
the rat race today and being wishy washy
about true faith will not attract anyone to
Christianity.
God protect us from people pleasers.
Barbara Wheatcroft
Hope Valley
DR MOHAMED HANEEF
The article in the August edition re. Dr
Mohamed Haneef may not be accurate.
Neither the Church nor the media should
have access to matters of national security
or military intelligence.
As a World War II soldier I witnessed
the results of sabotage by unfriendly
aliens. Terrorism requires stringent
surveillance.
I have no objection to the Church
challenging governments provided all
facts are known.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
For more Uniting Church events, visit Uniting Church online www.sa.uca.org.au
and click on “What’s On”. There is an online form which you can fill out to
contribute notices to Notebook.
A CONCERT featuring the
SA Police Dixieland Band and
a saxophone quartet to raise
funds for Frontier Services will
be held at the Church of the
Trinity at 318 Goodwood Road
Clarence Park on Wednesday
24 October at 7.30pm. Supper
provided. Tickets $10. Enquiries
to 8373 5848.
A BUSH DANCE Fund-raiser
for Sudanese orphans will be
held on Friday 21 September
2007, 7.30pm to 11.00pm
at Trinity Church Hall, cnr
Torrens Road and Station Place,
Alberton. Comfortable shoes
recommended. Admission $5
/ $12 family (or donation).
Please bring a plate for supper.
Enquiries to 8240 0200
VIEW THE SAYCO promo
online by visiting www.sa.uca.
org.au/goto/sayco. Copies of
this presentation are available
from Alice MacFarlane on 8236
4242 or sayco@sa.uca.org.au.
THE SEASON of Creation
Art Exhibition is on again at
Ray Buttery
Glandore
About your letters
Please keep your letters short — about 150
words is ideal.
Longer letters will be cut or rejected.
You’re welcome to email letters to
newtimes@sa.uca.org.au
or they can be posted to us at
GPO Box 2145, Adelaide 5001
the Church of the Trinity from
1 September to 30 September,
Tuesday to Sunday, 1pm to
4pm. Workshops, guided tours
and refreshments arranged on
request. Enquiries to Rev Anne
Hewitt on 8277 9833 or
8272 8661.
THE UCA Historical Society
is holding a workshop on
producing congregational
histories and anniversary
publications at the UC History
Centre, 44A East Ave, Black
Forest, on September 15, from
10.00am to 12.30pm. Contact
Dean Eland at elandhme@
bigpond.net.au or phone 8172
2133 for further information.
OVERSEAS MISSION
Thank you for publishing the article on
my recent visit to Zimbabwe. I wish to
make one correction. On an average wage
of $400,000 to $500,000 Zimbabwean per
month, many people spend $20,000 a day
on bus fares rather than the stated $2000.
What a difference one zero makes.
It was wonderful to read the other
articles of work being carried out and
supported in areas of need. The people
of the Uniting Church are reaching out
beyond themselves in real ways. On behalf
of the Verdun Uniting Church community
I applaud the efforts of all those who are
involved in sharing what they have with
others.
Philippa Goodbourn
Verdun
‘IMMERSE’
Once assured that the front cover photo
of New Times August 2007 was not a
new fund raising method for the Uniting
Church, I was delighted to read about the
plan to encourage young Christians to
‘immerse’ themselves in supporting those
with social needs. Good Samaritan action
is very much at the heart of the gospel
and it is wonderful to see Church leaders
promoting this and providing the hands
on experience.
Congratulations to Deanna, Matt, Ernest
and Kate for planning the immersion
experience and best wishes to those who
participate.
Allan Nield
Whyalla Norrie
ANNA GRANT-HENDERSON
will be leading a Quiet Day for
the Wellspring Community at
the Old Methodist Chapel, Old
Noarlunga on September 15,
9am to 4.50pm. The day will
focus on Welsh Celtic Saints
and healing. Cost $5. Bring
your own lunch. Enquiries to
Brian Ball on 8337 8517.
A MISSION AWARENESS
visit to Thailand will be held
from January 28 to February
13, 2008. Come and see the
work of our Partner Church,
meet vibrant Christians and
enjoy sight-seeing. Cost
approximately $2,500. Contact
Pam Silby (8365 1643) or
Philip Worsley (8265 1198) by
October 1.
DERNANCOURT UNITING
Church Fete and Auction will
be held at the church, cnr
Balmoral Rd and Vingara
Dr, Dernancourt on Saturday
October 20 from 9am to 1pm.
Enquiries to 8369 0802 or
email: office@dernancourt.
unitingchurch.com.au.
THE 27TH SOUTH Australian
Prayer Breakfast will be held
on Wednesday September 12
at the Adelaide Convention
Centre. Nabi Saleh, executive
chairman of Gloria Jean’s
Coffees International is the
guest speaker. Register online
at www.cbmcint.com.au or call
8396 6111.
THE STILLPOINT Spirituality
Centre at Nunyara will be
opened on Sunday September
2. Afternoon tea from 3pm and
a service at 4pm in Nunyara
Chapel. Viewing of new centre
before and after the service.
RSVP essential for catering
purposes to sarah.stillpoint@
internode.on.net or 8178 0048
by August 27.
TRINITY ALBERTON
Uniting Church will celebrate
its 127th anniversary on
November 11 and will begin
a year-long program called
‘Trinity Travelling Towards
Tomorrow’. Previous members
and members of our founding
churches, Yatala, Rosewater
Methodist and Ottoway
Congregational are invited.
Enquiries to Dot Johnson on
8341 2711.
Ministry Moves
Ian Hunter will serve
in a half time placement
at Belair and in another
half time placement at
Blackwood Uniting Church
from September 1, 2007.
Kynan Brookes will serve in
a placement at Hope Valley
Uniting Church from January
1, 2008. Robert Iles and
Judi Hartwig will serve at
Walkerville Uniting Church
from October 1, 2007.
Community minister for Cherry Gardens
Cherry Gardens has a new community minister. Christine Manning was installed at the
end of July. She is flanked by the congregation’s caretaker minister Rev Tony Baker and
Rev Dean Brookes, who was representing the Presbytery and the 3D Net mission network.
Christian pastoral support workers
AS A RESULT of the Federal Government’s National Schools Chaplaincy
Program nearly 100 government schools will be looking for Christian
pastoral support workers, (previously called chaplains).
The SMG (Schools Ministry Group) would like to hear from anyone
interested in such positions. SMG will publicise details of vacancies
for Christian pastoral support workers when they become available. Visit
www.smg.asn.au or phone 8378 6800 for more information.

New Times
Allie Borgelt (14) and Aidan Jerram (14) are preparing to attend SAYCO at the end of the month with other
members of Eastern Youth.
Preparing for SAYCO
More than 500 young people are expected to
attend SaYCo (South australian Youth Camp
out) at Cornerstone College in Mount Barker at
the end of the month.
this year the event will feature local Christian
rock and worship band ‘Foolish things’, the
carnival (supported by UC Invest) and a new
‘Xtreme Games’ segment.
Keynote speakers include tea tree Gully youth
pastor Martyn Smith and rev ruthmary Bond
from Kensington Park Uniting Church.
ruthmary also chairs the SaYCo executive
committee which organises the event for young
people aged from 12 to 15. She’s putting all her
efforts into growing SaYCo and hopes it may
eventually have up to 1,500 attendees.
“that’s why we’ve moved the event from
oakbank area School to Cornerstone College this
n u n y a r a h o l i d a y u n i t s
5 self-contained units
Fabulous views of the city and coastline
Close to shops, restaurants and Belair National Park
Affordable accommodation for 1–6 people
A friendly, convenient and peaceful place to stay
5 Burnell Drive Belair (08) 8278 1673
bookings.nunyara@senet.com.au www.nunyara.com.au
year,” ruthmary said. “Cornerstone has a huge
gymnasium, a large art room and a café area.
“It offers much more scope for growth and if
the weather turns bad campers can swap their
tents for under-cover accommodation.
“We’re also pleased that the event has now
become a firm fixture for the october long
weekend.”
ruthmary stresses that SaYCo is not just for
Uniting Church youth.
“We want church kids to invite their friends
and we also welcome groups from other
denominations,” she said.
“SaYCo provides a really valuable
opportunity for young people to be part of the
Kingdom of God. It also enables them to grow
their ministry and leadership skills.
“We want young people to feel they can
always be a part of this event. once they are
too old to attend as ‘campers’ they can come
along as volunteers and small group leaders.
“We’re very aware that we lose young people
from the church during their later teenage
years. We hope SaYCo will help keep them
interested and growing and developing in their
faith.”
Classifieds
Work WaNtEd
CARPETS LAID. Expert repairs. 0417
872 105 or 8344 4725.
EXPERIENCED HANDYMAN
Rose pruning. $15 per hour.
Your spare pair of hands.
Phone 8346 0933
WaNtEd
Very old toy train sets in best
condition. Hornby, Lionel makes
etc. Please phone 8271 6842.
N E W S
Motorbike for Thai pastor
traInee PaStor nopachai Saysong is delighted with the new
motorbike which will help him care for people in the huay nar
ngil congregation of the Church of Christ in thailand.
the bike is a gift from members of the Christian Motor Cyclists’
association Sa.
association members Glen and Jan Prentice also belong to
Parafield Gardens Uniting Church and they were instrumental
in arranging for the bike to go to a pastor working for a partner
church congregation.
the motor cyclists raised more than $1,000 for the bike which
is suited to the mountainous terrain of the region.
Pastoral care duties will be a lot easier for Thai trainee pastor Nopachai
Saysong thanks to a new motorbike provided by members of the Christian
Motor Cyclists’ Association SA and Parafield Gardens UC.
Good Old Fashioned Sound Advice
ABN AMRO Morgans can help you with -
Self Managed Super
Investment Structures
Investing For Income
Superannuation
Share Investments
Financial Security
Wealth Creation
Estate Planning
Level 1, 70 Hindmarsh Square ADELAIDE SA 5000
ABN AMRO Morgans Ltd A.B.N. 49 010 669 726 A.F.S.L.235410
Participant of ASX Group, Principal Member of the Financial Planning Association
Creating Wealth for Our Clients
Our company has been helping Australian
investors since our beginnings in 1937. While
our reputation was established in stockbroking,
we now cover all aspects of investing including
financial planning, superannuation, insurance,
cash and fixed interest, portfolio management,
lending strategies and much more.
Barbara has been in the stockbroking industry
for more than twenty years and has experience
in all aspects of the equities market.
Contact Barbara today on (08) 8464 5000
to find out how she can help you.
15
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7

16 N E W S
New Times
Mixed emotions as Baxter closes
Rev Adam Tretheway, the Uniting Church SA’s chaplain to refugees
and asylum seekers, led the final worship service at Baxter Detention
Centre last month.
Help ‘New Times’
‘NeW TIMes’ is interested in hearing from readers who would
like to write for the paper – particularly avid book readers and
movie-goers that would be willing to submit book and film
reviews.
The paper is also interested to hear from people with
professional writing skills who may be able to volunteer a day
a month to proof read ‘New Times’.
In addition ‘New Times’ would also like to hear from
ministers and church leaders who would be willing to
contribute views on church and religious issues from time to
time.
Interested people should email newtimes@sa.uca.org.au or
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7
The closure of Baxter
Detention centre has stirred
up mixed emotions for rev
Adam Tretheway, the uniting
church sA’s chaplain to
refugees and asylum seekers.
Adam led the final worship
service at Baxter Detention
centre last month. he has
been visiting detainees at the
centre since January 2005
and still supports many who
have been released into the
community.
Adam said the sudden
confirmation of Baxter’s
closure and speedy relocation
of the 12 remaining detainees
to other interstate facilities
caused some confusion and
anxiety.
“I am concerned for those
who will lose contact with
their established supporters
and with groups such as
‘The circle of Friends’,” said
Adam. “however some will
also be reunited with friends
call 8236 4230. The excepTIoNAl commitment and service
offered by uniting church sA Financial
services manager Joan Blanchard has been
acknowledged by members of the presbytery
and synod.
previously relocated from
Baxter.
“While I welcome the
closure of the detention
facility, I know that the
trauma associated with
detention continues for years.
The physical, psychological
and emotional costs are farreaching.
“If only the money poured
into Baxter had been spent
to support and resettle
refugees and asylum seekers
immediately on their arrival.
“Many of these people have
experienced significant pain
and suffering while escaping
oppressive conditions in their
countries. Detention merely
compounds their trauma.
“The uniting church
condemns the mandatory and
indefinite detention of asylum
seekers.
“however at least we
are able to support people
Acknowledging Joan’s contribution
Like to advertise your
congregation’s special event
for free?
Contact Russell Baker
to find out how.
phone 8361 6822
fax 8361 6833
email ribad@bigpond.com
detained in mainland
detention centres.
“We are very concerned
about the mega detention
centre being built on
christmas Island which
is even more remote and
inaccessible.
Adam said Baxter
Detention centre will be a
scar on south Australia’s
history, with the detention
centre being remembered as a
place where detainees clashed
with guards, went on hunger
strikes and attempted suicide.
Adam and others from
the Anglican and catholic
churches who supported
detainees, were planning
to hold a silent reflection
outside Baxter as New Times
went to print late last month.
Further information on the
ucA’s position on asylum
seekers and refugees can be
found at www.nat.uca.org.
au/unitingjustice/.
Resources Board chairperson Rev Dr Tony Nancarrow gave Financial Services manager Joan Blanchard a
floral tribute during the recent Presbytery and Synod meeting.
Joan has worked for the church for the past
19 years and is due to retire early next
month.
she has been particularly supportive
of congregational treasurers during the
introduction GsT legislation and taken an
active interest in managing the financial
affairs of the church’s major benefactors.