Our call to be good

news – bishop page 2

All Souls and Jazzpage 3

Royal Commision page 7

TheAnglican Gippsland

Volume 110, Number 9 December 2013 Published in Gippsland Diocese since 1904

Walking with Julian of Norwich

page 4

Christian Speaker at Climate Rally

page 6

by Philip Muston

_____________________

THE REV. STEVE CLARKE was inducted and installed as Dean of the Cathedral

Church of St Paul and Rector of Sale on Friday November 5 by Bishop John McIntyre.Steve comes to Gippsland

from Canberra, where he was Anglicare’s Director of Mission and Social Justice, and associate priest at St Philip’s, O’Connor.Steve’s wife, Fiona Boyes,

a professional musician, sang a blues solo in the service, accompanying herself on dobro guitar.Friends and family from

South Australia, Canberra and Melbourne were present to support the new Dean.Bishop McIntyre spoke on the

theme “that if Christ died and was raised from death, it changes everything”.

Steve comes to

Gippsland from

Canberra, where

he was Anglicare’s

Director of Mission

and Social Justice,

and associate

priest at St Philip’s,

O’Connor.

City Fundraising for Country Chaplaincy Program, page 5

New Dean Installed

Photos: Christine Morris

TGA

Page 2 The Gippsland Anglican December 2013

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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TheAnglicanGippsland

FACING THE TRUTH

GO online for progress on the Victorian enquiry into child abuse and the Commonwealth enquiry into how institutions dealt with reports of child abuse.

For personal help, contact Victorian Police:

Morwell 03 5131 5090Sale 03 5143 5000Bairnsdale 5150 2675Melbourne 03 9247 5538

Or contact Cheryl Russell, Director of Professional Standards, Gippsland Anglican Diocese, 0407 563 313 or email cherylrussell1@bigpond.com

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

IndexNew Dean Installed 1

Letter from the Bishop 2

All Souls and Jazz 3

Picnic at Bishopscourt 3

Walking with Julian of 4 Norwich

Peace on Earth? 4

City Fundraising for 5 Country Chaplaincy

Advent Reflection 5

Confirmation at Traralgon 5

Pitting Their Wits 5

2014 Kidsplus+Camp 6

Christian Speaker at 6 Climate Change Rally

New Vicar-General 6

The Memory Quilt 7

Help for the Philippines 7

Royal Commission 7

Theo’s Beach Mission 7 Lakes Entrance

New Editor for TGA 8

Manasseh’s Visit 8

Diocesan Calendar 8

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!

A common modern expression but it describes exactly what you gain when your make a deposit with the Anglican Development Fund. You can Save your money with guaranteed security and Serve the

Mission of the church in Gippsland at the same time.

Good interest rates too. Here they are:

The period for a term deposit is 12 months. There is no minimum deposit for either At Call or Term.

And remember, there are No Fees or Charges to operate your Account with the ADF. It’s Free! Access to your Deposit

is just a phone call away.

Open an Account with the A.D.F. today. Give us a call on (03) 5144 2044 or write to The Registrar at: PO Box 928 Sale, Vic. 3850, or you can drop in to the Diocesan Registry at 453 Raymond Street, Sale, for an Application Form to open

your Account with the ADF.

Note: Neither the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland nor the Anglican Development Fund – Gippsland is prudentially supervised by APRA!"#$%&'()*&($%+"&$"&,-".*%/"/$"%$&"$)&0(%"&,-")-%-1&"$2"/-3$+(&$'"protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959.

by Bishop John McIntyre

CHRISTMAS! The time of the year when we celebrate the birth of the Christ

child. Here we meet with God who enters into everyday human experience with love and for justice. Here we are met by God in grace and vulnerability, and with humility. The Christmas story is a good news story. God is not remote or aloof. God engages with us and is within the reach of all and any. In its original northern

hemisphere context, Christmas is celebrated in the depths of winter. At the time of greatest darkness, light breaks in. At the point of deepest human despair, God engages with us in love and for justice to bring hope and joy when it is least expected. Christmas! A time of

hope and joy.This is true for some but

certainly not for all. Too many people know only loneliness, suffering, pain and loss as their everyday experience. This experience is all the more highlighted as those around them celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas. Christmas for them is the torment of being reminded of what they have lost or never had.Our call at Christmas time is

to be present in our communities as God is present in Christ in the world. Our call is to live our everyday lives with love and for justice. Our call is to meet all and any in grace and vulnerability, and with humility. Our call is to be good news in our time as the birth of Jesus Christ is good

news in every time. In and through our willingness

to be Christ­like, the good news of Jesus Christ brings hope and joy to those whose lives we touch. By the way we live, we offer the hope and joy of God to others.

Of course, the other side of the story is that when we fail to be Christ­like we abandon to despair those who are lonely, suffering, and in pain and grief.This is true at every level

of human existence. When governments like ours refuse entry to asylum seekers; cut off aid to those most in need in our world, and rescind laws to combat the impact of human activity on climate change, those most vulnerable in the international community suffer. There is no Christmas good news of hope and joy for them when we in Australia think only of our economic bottom line in determining government policy.When local communities

turn a blind eye to those in their midst succumbing to addictions, despair and hopelessness; or suffering domestic violence, family abuse and social prejudice, people are left without meaningful futures. There is no Christmas good news of hope and joy for them when we think only of maintaining the good name of our local community by trying to hide the poverty and dysfunction in our towns and region.When families write off

each other because of hurt or embarrassment; or feuds that go back years for lack of forgiveness; or because of the often trivial disputes that fester for lack of resolution, bitterness

and petty hatred destroy and maim many lives. There is no Christmas good news for them if we think only of ourselves and what is comfortable for us over the holiday season.When churches deny the

damage so often perpetrated within their own walls in the abuse of children; the subjugation of women, and the rejection of people on the basis of race, ethnicity, or sexuality, thousands suffer injustice and the devastation of their lives. There is no Christmas good news for them if we think only of preserving the reputation of the church institution, or of preserving dogmatic interpretations of Scripture and our theological traditions.This Christmas and into

the New Year we have the opportunity to be God’s good news of hope and joy in every moment. In our approaches to government; in the manner in which we are present in our communities; in our family lives, and in the church, we are called to be the difference God brings into the life of the world through the birth of the Christ child.

“Our call at

Christmas time is

to be present in our

communities as God

is present in Christ

in the world.”

Letter from the Bishop

TGA

Bishop John, please accept my gift of: $25 can enable a parent to attend a Parentzone group session

$70 can help our foster families make a new arrivals room their own.

$125 can pay for a family support visit from an Anglicare worker

Surprise $ to make the most impact on kids in care this Christmas

Payment details

My cheque/money order is enclosed (payable to Anglicare Victoria)

ORPlease debit my

Visa Mastercard Diners club Amex

Card Number

Expiry date

Cardholders name

Signature

My details for receipting are:Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss/Dr

Address

Postcode

Phone

Email

Please return this completed coupon to Bishop of Gippsland, PO Box 1398, Sale VIC 3853 Alternatively, you can donate online at anglicarevic.org.au or call us on 1800 809 722.

Anglicare values your privacy. Please contact us on 9412 6136 to find out how we manage your personal information.

A foster kid only wants one thing for Christmas.

As Victoria’s largest provider of foster care and family services, Anglicare provided a safe home for Connor and his brothers when they needed it, but also helped Sharon get her life back on track so her family could be reunited.

Donate to Anglicare this Christmas. With your support, kids like Connor can go back home. Not just for Christmas, but forever.

WHEN CONNOR AND HIS TWIN BROTHERS WERE TAKEN FROM THEIR MUM, THE 7-YEAR-OLD BOY TOOK IT THE WORST. ALL CONNOR WANTED WAS TO BE BACK WITH HIS MUM. AT THE SAME TIME, HIS MUM SHARON JUST WANTED TO BRING HER KIDS HOME.

HELP US BRING FAMILIES TOGETHER

DONATE NOW

Bishop of Gippsland’s Christmas Appeal

by Glenda Amos

THE FIRST WEEKEND OF November was a time of contrast at Holy Trinity.

At the 9.00am service, an All Souls Service was included with the normal Holy Communion for the day. This was a quiet, contemplative time to remember those who had passed from this life during the past year. The Rev Jo White explained the origin of the practice of praying for the souls of those who had died during the previous year. In the Middle Ages, poor children would offer to say prayers for rich people in return for a treat, usually a cake. The more

prayers said, the lighter the souls of those who had died and therefore the greater chance they had of reaching heaven. This all happened on the eve of “All Hallows”, which then became “Halloween”. The service at Holy Trinity, this year, proved &$")-"0"4*(-&5"'-6-7&(8-"&(9-5"0+"names were read out, candles lit and prayers said. By contrast, the Jazz service

at 11am was a lively, uplifting celebration of music, enjoyed by many locals and a number of visitors. Ian Richardson’s band provided toe­tapping music to old favourites like “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Just a Closer Walk”. Soloist Linda

Bowden was accompanied by the band, as she sang “Pennies from Heaven”. The band included Dave on double bass, Don on guitar, Dave on trumpet, and Ernie on saxophone while Ian led the music on piano.As well as singing, the

congregation also joined the music­making with percussion (%+&'*9-%&+!" :,-" 1%0;" +$%<"“When the Saints” was sung with great gusto by all present, not just the Saints’ supporters! A bring and share lunch in the Hall completed a very pleasant time for everyone. The Jazz service provided another enjoyable dimension to a weekend full of entertainment in our district.

All Souls and Jazz at Holy Trinity, Yarram

by Meredith Lynch

In November, Year 6 students from Gippsland Grammar’s St Anne’s Campus enjoyed a picnic in the grounds of Bishopscourt, followed by a tour of the majestic home. As guests of the Bishop and his wife, the children listened intently to a brief history of the home and how it came to have its own chapel. During the tour of the home, the

Bishop explained how over the years the seven bedrooms had often been used to provide accommodation for visiting clergy. The children were fascinated by the beautiful staircase and grandeur of the home, asking many questions along the way. Following the tour, they all enjoyed participating in games on the lawn before returning to class. It is hoped the picnic may become an annual event.

Year 6 students and staff from Gippsland Grammar enjoyed a picnic at Bishopscourt

Picnic at Bishopscourt

Photo: Glenda Amos

Page 4 The Gippsland Anglican December 2013

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland does not tolerate abuse, misconduct and harm in its Chris!"#$%&''unity.

The Diocese is commi!ed to ensuring all people in contact with the Church can par"cipate in a safe and responsible environment. If you may have been harmed by a church

worker, or know someone who has, please come forward.

The Director of Professional Standards, Cheryl Russell, is available, and will maintain con(den!ality, on telephone 03 5633 1573, on mobile 0407 563313, or email cherylrussell1@bigpond.com

OFFICE OF THE ¦ Director of Professional Standards

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Peace on earth? Goodwill to all?

by Sue Jacka

AS CHRISTMAS approaches, many appeals will come

our way. As well as all those which come through the TV and newspapers, there’s the Anglicare appeal for food and gifts for needy Gippsland families. Of course this year we want to be generous in our support of the people in the Philippines after the devastation caused by the super typhoon. As Christians who are very grateful for God’s love and generosity in sharing in our humanity in the #,'(+&"7,(;/5"=-"=0%&" &$" '-6-7&"that love in acts of kindness and justice. However, we may also wonder how we can stretch our budgets to allow this generosity, since not many of us have

excessive amounts of spare cash. Here are some ideas which

will not only spread a little Christmas goodwill, but help us to bring about a more equitable world. Consider giving a couple of

chooks or a solar light – not to your friend, but to a person in a country far away, who really needs it – and your friend gets a card telling them about your gift. This year TEAR Australia, Christian Blind Mission, Missionary Aviation Fellowship and Anglican Overseas Aid all have catalogues with such useful gifts, and no doubt there are others too. Take the $21 challenge:

decide to eat what you have in the pantry or freezer and only spend a maximum of $3 per day on milk or bread. This is still more than many people across the world live on daily! What you save can then be given away.Look through your presents

box and see if there is something a Gippsland Anglicare child would love, or even their mum or a dad who is likely to miss out.If you are looking for a

sustainable way to free up cash to practise generosity, consider eating a couple of simple vegetarian meals each week and making regular donations to an agency which works with local people in a given country to empower them to develop a just and compassionate community where all people have the opportunity to achieve their God­given potential.

Photo: courtesy TEA

R Australia

by Carolyn Raymond

EARLY IN NOVEMBER Anam Cara held a Quiet day at Warragul to learn more

from the writings of Julian of Norwich, to pray with her and to meditate on her revelations. This was an opportunity to spend time in silence with God, to listen to Him and to listen to ourselves.Why did Anam Cara plan a

Quiet Day learning and praying with Julian of Norwich? Why do so many read and meditate on Julian’s words today? Why do so many people read her Book of Divine Love? Why do so many, including Anam Cara’s Soul Carer, Rev. Anne Turner, pray her prayers often? (Anne tells me, she prays with Julian every day during her midday prayers.)Julian was a mystic who lived

in the fourteenth century. She came from a time and society very different to ours. She lived long before Australia was even thought of. The Earth was *%/-'+&$$/"&$")-"60&!"">(2-"=0+"often short and, for most people, involved very hard, dirty, physical work. There was the ever­present fear of the Plague. There was only one church and (&+" 3$=-'" 0%/" (%6*-%7-" =-'-"widely accepted. Education was for the lucky wealthy few, and most of those were men, not women. English was for the lower classes, Latin and French

were spoken by the rich and (%6*-%&(0;!Julian chose a life few of

us have even heard about, let alone contemplated choosing for ourselves. She chose to be an anchoress, living within one house only for the most of her life. You would think there was no point of contact between her life and ours.Yet Julian’s writings speak to

us of the spiritual relationship between God and those he loves so much – that’s us. She travels beyond dogma. She extends the church’s teaching, but does not abolish it. She describes her writings as “Showings”. To Julian these revelations, which sometimes took time to understand, were so overwhelmingly important that she had to write them down. It is possible that she taught herself to write in English so these Showings could be shared with others through the years, others like us who can walk with Julian so many centuries later. The Quiet Day opened with

Anne Connelly explaining how she created the icon of Julian by machine stitching. Ann -?3;0(%-/" ,$=" /(217*;&" (&" =0+"to create the face and the hands as these showed the essence of a person. Our host for the Quiet Day, Joy Campbell, has had, for many years, an icon of Julian 90/-" )@" A%%-!" B$@" 1%/+" &,(+"icon inspires her in prayer.

During the Day we studied some of Julian’s words and we prayed with her. Joy took us through a Julian meeting with music and silent mediation. We prayed with music, some of it written about the time Julian was alive. Several of us read from her books. Many of us in Anam Cara have Julian’s books and brought them to share on the day. There were also books from the Anam Cara library 080(;0);-"2$'"4*(-&"'-6-7&($%"0%/"for borrowing.Reading Julian’s writings and

praying with her helps me see what I already know in a new light. She takes the familiar and the everyday, our sin and the 3'-+-%7-" $2" -8(;" 0%/"1%/+"C$/"in the centre of all. She speaks of the most basic of human functions, and of death and suffering. Of how God, through it all, never loses sight of us. To read Julian is like walking out into my garden in the early morning. There is dew on the grass and the sun coming up spreads new light on the familiar and well­loved scene. The light of God’s gifts of love and grace touch everything. As Julian says, “All will be well, and all manner of things will be well”.We took our mantra for the

Quiet day from Julian’s words, “Nothing less than God can satisfy us.”

Walking with Julian of Norwich – Anam Cara Quiet Day

TGA

The Church, over the years, has been blessed with the generosity of Anglicans and others in support

of its mission. One way you can support this ideal in a #$%&"vely easy way, is to make a gi' through your will. In the (rst instance, of course, you will consider carefully the needs of your immediate

family and friends before proceeding with a bequest to the church.

We o)er a way of helping you to carry out your wishes. Your gi', through your bequest, will be very much appreciated. You may wish to support the Diocese of Gippsland as a whole, or your own parish,

or for a par"cular purpose.

Making your bequest in your Will is a simple procedure, although in preparing or amending your Will

you should always consult a solicitor. The Registrar of the Diocese of Gippsland has info#*&"on to assist you in making a bequest, including the form of words you and your solicitor might want to use.

Telephone Brian Norris on 03 5144 2044, or go to www.gippsanglican.org.au and search ‘bequests’.

A LASTING GIFT: A bequest to the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland or your parish

Be a part of supporting the Aboriginal Ministry

Fund

The AMF exists to resource employment of Aboriginal people in ministry; training of Aboriginal people for ministry; development of Aboriginal ministry in the community; the planting of Aboriginal churches; education of the Diocese about Aboriginal issues.

Be a part of achieving these aims.

Contact the Diocese of Gippsland 453 Raymond Street, Sale, Victoria PO Box 928, Sale, 3853 Telephone 03 5144 2044 Fax 03 5144 7183 Email registrar@gippsanglican.org.au

by Lyn Gilbert

At St. Paul’s Korumburra, David Perryman, an Ordinand with the parish, has begun a Youth Group with high school students who enjoy gaming.The group started with a

couple of boys and now has 21­23 boys and girls coming along each week for three

hours to join together and ‘pit their wits’ against each other and in teams with games such as ‘Halo’, ‘Black Ops’ and ‘Minecraft’.There is also a time to have

a break from the games and enjoy some pizza, a drink and fellowship together.This is a social get together

with an emphasis on games.

December 2013 The Gippsland Anglican Page 5

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City Fundraising for Country Chaplaincy Program

by Meredith Lynch

THE REV STEVE WEBSTER of St. Michael’s, North Carlton, says his role as

chaplain to players, staff and their families at Carlton Foot­ball Club is simply being pre­sent – an emotional support and listening ear. Steve was the guest speaker at

a dinner for 119 people, to raise funds for the Neerim District Secondary College Chaplaincy program run by John van der Marel. John is also the activities and Christian education co­ordinator of the church youth group. Steve attended the dinner with his wife Penne.The dinner, held in the Phoe­

nix Room of the Neerim South Football Club, was organised by the Chaplaincy Committee of the Neerim District Secondary College and the Pastoral Care and Mission Committee of St John’s Co­operating Church of Neerim South.Listeners thought Steve

went well beyond the call of duty, stripping into footy gear and having a run with the boys on training nights. That really is dedication on a cold, wet winter’s night. He clearly takes his caring role seriously, but with humour.Local school pupils performed

musical items between courses and were very well received. On Saturday morning Steve

spoke at a men’s breakfast at St. John’s Co­operating Church of Neerim South and outlined his journey within the church – of fostering young church

goers; offering activities that excite and interest them within the context of Christianity, and encouraging older men to offer emotional support to each other. At the worship services at

Buln Buln and Neerim South on Sunday morning Steve rounded off the weekend with a passage from Colossians in which he exhorted the Colossians to be humble, kind, meek, long

suffering, patient, forgiving and charitable, with all these traits overarched with love. This message remains with us as a reminder of Steve and Penne’s visit. At a shared lunch after the

Neerim South service our thanks were extended to Steve and Penne for their generous help with the Chaplaincy program.

by Philip Muston

WE MAY HAVE GROWN accustomed to thinking of

Advent as a kind of countdown to Christmas for the kids: one candle lit, two three, four, and then the big day arrives!Advent however is a celebra­

tion in itself: a powerful way to kick off the church year.It’s preceded by Christ the

King Sunday, when we’re reminded that the one who governs our hearts, minds and actions is Jesus Christ our Lord.This is important because

if Christ rules us, then other governments and rulers have strictly limited powers over us. We obey them only in so far as their commands are consistent with the rule of Christ the King.Monarchs are primarily

interested in loyalty and allegiance from their subjects: the question Advent poses is whether our loyalty and allegiance to King Jesus is actual and observable in our day to day lives.The promise of Scripture

is that, in one way or another, Jesus Christ is going to return to planet earth to fully establish God’s rule, whether people like it or not.D(;;" ,-" 1%/" *+" 7$$3-'0&(%<"

with him in this when he comes, or not? Advent exerts pressure on us to consider whether our lives are in line with the coming Kingdom of God.Are we living under its

commands and expectations, or not? As outward representatives of the King (i.e. members of the visible church), are we going to be an embarrassment to Christ or a credit when he comes?

Jesus encourages his 2$;;$=-'+"&$"2--;"7$%1/-%&"&,0&"they can be a credit to him. He wants us not be deceived about what’s going to happen, and not to be led astray by any false pretenders to God’s throne.Nobody — not even Jesus

himself – knows quite how or when Jesus is going to return, but broadly speaking there are a couple of things we can expect.He will come at a time when

many least expect it. Jesus says “Watch out!”, lest we miss the joy of his coming through being distracted by other concerns. Also, when He comes, it

will be in power and glory. No one will be left in any doubt that the Christ has returned.Jesus says that his coming

will mean different things to different groups of people. To unbelieving onlookers, it will be a clear sign of God’s judgement. But to his followers it will be a blessing and a sign of God’s rescue: our ‘redemption’, by which he means the redemption of our bodies.What has all this to do with

advent candles: three purple, one pink, sitting neatly in green foliage around a big white Christmas candle? Your guess is as good as mine! People hook the candles in to the message in different ways – I’ve heard some weird and wonderful explanations in my time. I guess it doesn’t matter if the exercise helps draw our attention to what does matter.The important thing is that

we try to live in readiness for the coming Christ, whenever and in whatever way God is pleased to bring it about.

Advent Reflection

Photo: courtesy Rev Dr John Batt

S! "#$%& #'()*+#' +,-.+, in Traralgon welcomed two new members into

its family fold on Sunday 10th of November. A service of Con/rmation and Holy Communion was celebrated for Murray Ferguson and Melinda Wass, both of Traralgon. Both Murray and Melinda have been attending services regularly for quite some time so it was with great happiness that we could be a part of their day of celebration.The service was conducted

by the Bishop of Gippsland, the Rt. Reverend John McIntyre, assisted by Canon

Jeff Richardson. Bishop John preached an inspiring sermon on ‘The Love of God’, revealed through his only Son, Jesus Christ, who gave His life for us. Songs were accompanied by Joseph and Jane and led by the 7 pm music group.Murray was sponsored by his

daughter, Tara, while Melinda was sponsored by close friend and Lay Reader, Jordan Breed. Many family, friends and parishioners attended the service to offer their love and support to &,-"7$%1'90&($%"70%/(/0&-+!Following the service all

enjoyed fellowship over supper provided by the congregation.

Melinda Wass, the bishop and Murray Ferguson

TGA

Page 6 The Gippsland Anglican December 2013

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Now is the time to plan to join the young peo­ple of the diocese at

the Annual Kidsplus+ Camp. It will be held over the weekend of 14th to 16th March, and is open to boys and girls aged 6 to 18 years of age.The Gippsland Kidsplus+

network, linking the various children’s and youth ministries across the diocese would welcome enquiries from adult leaders with appropriate Working with Children’s

Checks to join the leadership team and hopefully encourage members of their parish groups to attend. Applications have been posted to all parishes or enquire through the email: gippskidsplus@people.net.au. The cost for participants will be $100.00 with a discount of $10.00 for the second or multiple family members attending. We are requesting forms and deposits by February 1st. 2014.

A’Beckett Park, Raymond Island

I COMMEND the Bishop for the framework he has given in the New Diocesan Strategy. E" 1%/" ,-;32*;" ,(+" 7;0'(2@(%<"explanation that the Journey Inward has the goal of being changed in ourselves as we grow in our life in Christ (Strategies for implementing new Diocesan plan, TGA November 2013).An “Inward Journey”

often becomes some vague, introspective, experience­based journey, searching for the divine within us. Yet when our goal is to become more Christ­like, we have to start by looking up to the God who is there – the Creator of all things, and his son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. We have to start with the historical revelation given through Moses, the Prophets and in Jesus himself – none other than the Bible. Lives change from the inside, but the start is from without, reading what God has already given.The Bible will make us aware

of the holiness of God, our sinfulness and the wonder of forgiveness and transformation through the work of Jesus. When this is grasped we will have plenty to celebrate together and share outwardly. The truth of the Gospel is the life of the church.

Gordon Dowthwaite Leongatha

Starting with the Bible

Christian Speaker at Climate

Change Rally

by Jan Down

AS A CHRISTIAN thinker and a climate scientist, I don’t

want to talk this morning just of 207&+"0%/"1<*'-+5")*&"(90<(%0&($%"and dreams. I dream of a world of peace and justice, where resources are shared fairly, and where the Earth is treasured and protected.”These are the opening words

of a brief speech delivered by Dr Mick Pope, meteorologist and theologian, at the National Day of Climate Action, a rally held in the Treasury Gardens, Melbourne, on Sunday 17th November.Christians from country

Victoria and around Melbourne joined the rally along with many others of different faiths or none. The event was supported by at least thirteen different organisations, including Oxfam Australia, the Australian Conservation Foundation, GetUp, and Australian Ethical Super. Some Christian people made arrangements to attend the rally together, via the Facebook page, “Australian Christian Environment Group”.

Dr Pope described climate change as “a deeply moral issue” and explained that his dream of a better world ‘is shaped by the Christian story of a God who loves, creates, redeems and renews’. He said he felt compelled to love God and neighbour in response to God’s love shown in the cross of Jesus. And that loving God means loving the world he has made. Dr Pope saw loving his

neighbour as not just about the people next door. “In a world where I wear clothes made in Bangladesh, watch American movies on a Korean TV, and when I drive my Japanese car I add gases that warm the whole planet, everyone is my neighbour”. He asked his listeners to think

about what inspired them to dream of a better world, and to act on climate change. Approximately 30,000 people

attended the National Day of Climate Action in Melbourne. Other rallies were held in cities and towns around the country, including a crowd who gathered at the clock tower in Raymond Street, Sale. This event was organised by Wellington Sustainability Group.

Climate Rally at Sale Photo courtesy Wellington Sustainability Group

Letters to the editor TGA

Bishop John McIntyre has announced that he has appointed Archdeacon Philip Muston as the Vicar­General of the Diocese. This follows the resignation of Archdeacon Heather Marten from the position in October. Tribute was paid to Heather at the October Bishop­in­Council

meeting for her work over eight years as Vicar­General and a motion of thanks to her was passed with acclamation.The role of Vicar­General

is normally held by the senior archdeacon and involves deputising for the Bishop if he is on leave.

New Vicar-General

Dr. Mick Pope

? Photo: ?

FUNERAL DIRECTORSBarry & Annette Lett

We offer care, compassion and service with dignity, for the people of Gippsland

Caring and personal 24-hour serviceChapel facilities available.

67 Macarthur Street, SalePhone 5143 1232

www.lettsfunerals.com.auMember Australian Funeral Directors Association

1387097

The Church, over the years, has been blessed with the generosity of Anglicans and others in support

of its mission. One way you can support this ideal in a #$%&"vely easy way, is to make a gi' through your will. In the (rst instance, of course, you will consider carefully the needs of your immediate

family and friends before proceeding with a bequest to the church.

We o)er a way of helping you to carry out your wishes. Your gi', through your bequest, will be very much appreciated. You may wish to support the Diocese of Gippsland as a whole, or your own parish,

or for a par"cular purpose.

Making your bequest in your Will is a simple procedure, although in preparing or amending your Will

you should always consult a solicitor. The Registrar of the Diocese of Gippsland has info#*&"on to assist you in making a bequest, including the form of words you and your solicitor might want to use.

Telephone Brian Norris on 03 5144 2044, or go to www.gippsanglican.org.au and search ‘bequests’.

A LASTING GIFT: A bequest to the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland or your parish

December 2013 The Gippsland Anglican Page 7

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Immersion was not the intention.

by Philip Muston

The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland has little to fear

and much to hope for from the current Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, according to Bishop John McIntyre.“We have good systems in

place for responding to com­plaints of sexual abuse,” he said.“Also, we have a good

track record of responding to complaints made through those systems.”Bishop McIntyre added that

the Diocese had asked an inde­pendent person to audit all its F'$2-++($%0;" G&0%/0'/+" 1;-+!"“This demonstrates that we’re very willing to be open about our records and to cooperate with the Royal Commission,” he said.Bishop McIntyre underlined

that the Commission’s main brief was not to discover where there had been child abuse, but to examine how institutions had responded to that abuse.He said that while the

Commission was seeking to identify where there had been

poor responses from churches to complaints of child sexual abuse, the commissioners were also looking to positively commend churches that had done well in dealing with people reporting abuse. “In making recommendations

they’re looking to see if church­es have good systems and good practices. I think we have good practices and we implement them pretty well,” he said.Currently the Commission

is holding a public hearing to examine the response of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton to claims of child sexual abuse at the North Coast Children’s Home in Lismore and the policies and procedures of that diocese in handling a group claim.Royal Commission CEO, Ms

Janette Dines, said the public hearing would focus on those who had made claims to the Anglican Diocese of Grafton from 2005. “This hearing will investigate whether that Diocese followed appropriate policies and procedures with respect to a group claim made by victims.“It will examine how the

group claim was settled and what occurred when former residents of North Coast Children’s Home came forward seeking compensation after the group claim had been settled,” she said.The Royal Commission will

also consider what disciplinary action and risk assessments occurred within the Newcastle and Grafton Dioceses of the Anglican Church concerning those who were convicted or accused of child sexual abuse at the children’s home.“This historical example of

institutional child sexual abuse will help the community to be better informed about how claims were dealt with by the Anglican Diocese of Grafton and is expected to highlight just how devastating and long­lasting the effects of child sexual abuse are,” Ms Dines said.Later in December the Royal

Commission, under Chair, the Hon. Justice Peter McClellan, will hold another public hearing in Sydney to look into the Roman Catholic Church’s response to complaints of child sexual abuse.

Royal Commission TGA

Sandra McMaster

The Scripture Union ‘Theo’s Beach Mission’ Team have once again secured the Slipway building for their outreach activities this summer.Last year our parish assisted them with worship space at St Nic’s, meals for the team and other needs.Please keep the team in your prayers and drop in between 27th Dec – 6th Jan in the afternoons and evenings to give them encouragement and support for this exciting ministry!

Lakes Entrance 27th Dec - 6th Jan

St Mary’s Morwell

by Carolyn Raymond

One Sunday in November, Archdeacon Heather Marten read a story to the children called The Memory Quilt. It was a beautiful story of building relationships through loving memories of people and events. Memories were supported by a quilt made of pieces of material from clothing worn by loved ones at particular events. As always, the congregation enjoyed and learned from the story as much as the children did. The members of the Sunday School then made a “quilt” out of paper writing their names, the names of loved ones and recalling events on paper. Jesus had pride of place on the Memory Quilt. They proudly showed it to us at the end of the service.

Help for the PhilippinesAll of us have been saddened and very concerned for the people of the Philippines and their suffering as a result of the typhoon. Heather has placed a candle and a prayer before the altar. Each of us can pray the prayer as we come to the altar rail at Communion. Over the next few weeks there will a retiring collection for the Philippines. The money will be sent through ABM to help the relief effort.

Annalise and Danielle show the congregation the Memory Quilt made by the children of the Sunday School

Candle and prayer for the people of the Phillipines

Maffra 5147 1954

Sale 5144 1954

Heyfield 5148 3354

www.semmensfunerals.com.au

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Page 8 The Gippsland Anglican December 2013

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Diocesan calendar December6 Gippsland Grammar School Concert, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sale7 Anam Cara Community Quiet Day – The Coming of the Lord, Mirboo North, 9.30 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.20 End of school Term 415 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sale, 8.00 p.m.24 Christmas Eve: Family Worship at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sale, 6.00 p.m. Holy Communion at St. Alban’s, Kilmany, 8.00 p.m. Holy Communion, candle­lit, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sale, 11.00 p.m.25 CHRISTMAS DAY: Family Worship at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sale, 9.00 a.m.27 ­ Jan 6 Theos Beach Mission, Lakes Entrance27 ­ Jan 2 Cowes Theos28 ­ Jan 7 Mallacoota SU Family Mission and Theos28 ­ Jan 7 Eden SU Family Mission30 ­ Jan 5 Inverloch SU Family Mission30 ­ Jan 12 Summer in Seaspray, Sale Parish Outreach – free community events

January1 Summer in Seaspray continues to 12th1 Theos Beach Mission continues to 6th3 ­ 9 Cowes SU Family Mission4 Bass­Phillip Island Parish Fair4 ­ 18 Tidal River SU Family Mission, Theos14 ­ 15 Holiday Program, Thorpdale16 ­ 7 Holiday Program, Trafalgar21 ­ 22 Holiday Program, Yarragon26 Australia Day28 Start of School Term 1

February21 Youth and Families Ministries Summit, 6 p.m., continuing to noon on Feb 23

If you have Parish, Community or Group events you would like mentioned in the Diocesan Calendar, please email editor@gippsanglican.org.au or call Jan 0407 614 661. Thank you.

by Philip Muston

MANASSEH GAHIMA is a charming man. Gippslanders who

have visited our partner diocese of Gahini in Rwanda know how much he loves people from Gippsland.Manasseh has spent a month

in Gahini, spending time in parishes, speaking at schools and attending functions, including the installation of Dean Steve Clarke at St Paul’s Cathedral.“I bring greetings from

Gahini, from my Bishop and from link parishes. After ten years of partnership, we have so many dear friends,” he said.The Rev. Manasseh Gahima,

43, also brought greetings from his wife Rose, who accompa­nied him on a previous visit 18-" @-0'+" 0<$5" 0%/" &,-('" -(<,&"children (all of whose Christian names start with the letter D).Currently he works as

Diocesan Secretary, a technical

and administrative position in &,-" ,-0/" $217-" $2" &,-" H($7-+-"of Gahini. He is effectively a chaplain, personal assistant and at times deputy to Bishop Alexis Bilindabagabo. He lives

in the village of Gahini, and his working days are long and hard. In addition he is studying for a Master’s degree in Theology. Rose also works and studies.During his visit Manasseh

spoke and preached in parishes from Lakes Entrance west to

Drouin, and south to Phillip Island. He stayed in homes in places including Warragul, Sale, Bairnsdale, Churchill, and Phillip Island.He spoke, among other things

on the subject of the Rwandan Genocide, at schools including St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, Gippsland Grammar, and Box Hill Secondary College. In many situations he was able to share his own testimony of coming to faith in and through the civil war in Rwanda.Manasseh has worked as

head teacher of one of Rwanda’s best schools today, as Executive Secretary of a District for three years, mayor of a District for eight years, and speaker of a H(+&'(7&" #$*%7(;" 2$'" 18-" @-0'+!"He left government in 2006 to work as Diocesan Administrator in Gahini. He was ordained deacon on 4th January 2009 and as Priest in May 2009. Manasseh was born as a

refugee in Uganda in 1970 in a remote place called Hoima: part of a Forest reserve in that country. “I grew up and +&*/(-/" (%" I<0%/0" (%" /(217*;&"circumstances but by the grace of God I have regained my status as citizen of Rwanda. I am one of the few very well­educated Rwandans with a B.Com, MA, Diploma in Education and almost completing a Th.M.” he said.“I love sharing my life with

friends because it is a life of transformation that manifests God’s love and power and my prayer always is that other people can see God’s work in lives of those they see.”

“I love sharing my life with friends because

it is a life of transformation that manifests

God’s love and power...”

TGA

Manasseh’s visit

Hello! I’m your new editor, Jan Down. I am delighted to be working on the Gippsland Anglican newspaper, and look forward to meeting many people from around the diocese. I am new to Gippsland – in

fact, at the moment we live in Croydon, and I am looking forward to exploring beautiful Gippsland and getting to know people in coming months.TGA would love to hear from

you about where you see God at work, both in your churches, and out in the local communi­ties where you live. Those who enjoy writing and have the time – please keep sending in your articles (and thanks to those who have done so for this issue). Those of you with less time or inclination – please feel free just to jot down your thoughts in an email and I can write them up.We also love photos, so please

send these as well. They need to be 8­10 megapixels to come out well in the newspaper.Please send your stories and/

or photos by 15th of the month prior to publication – e.g. 15th January for the February edition. Here is the email: editor@gippsanglican.org.auThank you and may God grow

us all in faith, hope and love.

Jan Down

“A Little Bit of Everything” was the theme of the final concert for the year for Clifton Waters Village Variety Group.Photo: John Matthews