E•C•U•M•E•N•I•C•A•L
N•E•W•S•L•E•T•T•E•R
Archdiocese of Brisbane
Issue # 2 ~ 2003
EDITORIAL
Commission for Ecumenism
and Interfaith Relations
While the Synod promulgation addresses a wide
vista of church life, aspects of ecumenism and
interfaith relations are evident in the three vital
dimensions of Christian faith Archbishop
Bathersby put before us at Preparation Day One.
The three dimensions of a vibrant and evangelising Church are:
•
embracing the person and vision of Jesus
•
building Communion with God and others
•
engaging in Mission in our world.
To embrace the person and vision of Jesus, is to move
near to Jesus, and in doing so we move nearer to one another.
Jesus’ prayer in John’s Gospel “I ask not only on behalf of
these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me
through their word, that they may all be one. As you Father,
are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the
world may believe that you have sent me.” Jn 17:20 is a
challenge to each of us too. “The change of heart which is the
essential condition for every authentic search for unity
flows from prayer and its realisation is guided by prayer.”
Ut Unum Sint # 33 Let us come to know the person and vision of
Jesus by being people of prayer.
Triannual bulletin of the
Commission for Ecumenism
and Interfaith Relations of the
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of
Brisbane.
EDITORIAL BOARD:
Ros Kerlin
Philip Lawler
Mary Logan
Veronica Ross
Gay Williams o.s.u.
TYPING AND LAYOUT:
Christine Symons
Subscriptions:
$10.00 per year post free
To build communion with God and Others dares us to take
risks in the way in we build understanding, compassion,
respect and love. A major key to communion is dialogue when
we can discuss, listen, accept or reject positions taken by the
other. “Dialogue is an indispensable step along the path
towards human self-realisation, the self-realisation both of
each individual and of every human community…When undertaking dialogue, each side must presuppose in the other a
desire for reconciliation, for unity in truth.” Ut Unum Sint #28, 29
To engage in Christ’s mission in the World is to be
immersed in the reality of daily living. “The quest for Christian
Unity is not a matter of choice or expediency, but a duty which
springs from the very nature of the Christian Community.”
Ut Unum Sint #49
From the ecumenical and interfaith aspect,
much is already happening in the Archdiocese of Brisbane.
Many join for ecumenical prayer, gather in interfaith groups,
share meals and work to assist the poor of our Archdiocese.
Gay Williams o.s.u.
Acting Executive Officer
Office for Ecumenism and Interfaith Relations
Address:
GPO Box 282
BRISBANE QLD 4001
Telephone:
07-3224 3354
Fax:
07-3221 1705
E-mail:
[email protected]
Feedback and articles for
publication are welcome.
COMMISSION NEWS
This year the Commission has welcomed two new members to its ranks: Trish Stapleton and Ros Kerlin.
Trish Stapleton is Education Officer with Faith Education Services at
Brisbane Catholic Education Commission (BCEC). She works with the
State School, Parish and Family Religious Education Team and works
with Parishes throughout the Archdiocese. In this role she is BCEC
representative on the Religious
Education Advisory Committee for
Education Queensland.
She is
married to Larry and they have
four daughters aged from 16 to 22.
Trish has been an APRE in Brisbane schools for the past
ten years and has a background in Education both Primary
and Secondary in Qld and NSW. She has specialised in
Music and Religious Education. She is an accredited
Trainer for Seasons for Growth – a Grief and Loss Peer
Support Program for children and adults. Trish is enjoying
meeting so many dedicated and passionate people from all
religious backgrounds in her new role as Education Officer
working particularly with teachers of RE in State Schools.
Ros Kerlin lives in the Parish of
Our Lady of the Rosary, Kenmore.
She attends St Catherine's Moggill
which is part of the Kenmore
Parish. Ros grew up as a member
of the Anglican Church in England,
and her father was a Parish Minister. It was not until later in her life
she became a Catholic. Her husband and children were Catholics
and Ros felt left out of celebrations
and important events in their lives
as the children grew up. Ros felt
she would like to be a full member of the Catholic Church
which would enable her to receive communion with the
family. Her main interest in the Commission is to promote
and encourage Ecumenism.
One very important function of the Commission is the
formation of its own members. To carry out our role
effectively, it is essential that Commissioners are kept up
to date with current ecumenical and interfaith principles
and practice. To this end a formation session is built into
each of our meetings. This year we have been introduced
to the recently published Vatican document:
“Jesus
Christ – The Bearer of the Water of Life”. This is a very
timely document, as it is a Christian reflection on the New
Age movement and, while fairly lengthy, is well worth a
look (see www.vatican.va). We have also explored the
principles underlying Ecumenical and Interfaith dialogue
and the differences of approach which exist between the
two.
Members of the Commission have also been very actively
involved in the Archdiocesan Synod process this year.
Quite a number were delegates, either of the Commission
or in another capacity. Ecumenism and Interfaith came
under the umbrella of “Christian Mission in Daily Life”
2
and there was very strong endorsement for the desired
outcome that Catholics “engage actively in ecumenical and
interfaith collaboration.” Nominated ways of carrying this
out were:
1. Incorporate into parish life in a practical way the
principle that Christian churches should act together in
all matters except those in which deep differences are
obvious (Third World Conference on Faith & OrderLund, Sweden 1952), by arranging social activities,
an annual combined public prayer service, and also
conducting a review at least once each year of work
undertaken with other churches on social welfare,
social justice an other appropriate projects.
2. Develop ecumenical and interfaith resources for study
groups that promote greater understanding and mutual
acceptance.
3. Encourage leaders of Christian churches to speak with a
unified voice on issues of social justice, social welfare
and ethics.
4. Work collaboratively with other churches and, where
appropriate, with other faith traditions, to address
systemic and current justice and welfare issues.
5. Affirm the work of the Commission for Ecumenism and
Interfaith Relations and ensure that it is adequately
resourced and staffed.
6. Affirm and promote formal dialogue
Christians and other faith traditions.
with
other
The implementation of these activities would involve
parishes, the Commission and the Archbishop, either
jointly or individually according to their area of expertise.
Margaret Naylon
Commission Chairperson
Margaret Naylon is a primary
school teacher with Brisbane Catholic Education. She has also acted in
administrative positions within
Catholic schools including a time as
APRE.
She first became involved with
ecumenism through the Anglican
Roman
Catholic
International
Council (ARCIC) parish discussion
programmes in the early 1980s and
her interest has rapidly developed
since then. Margaret also values
the opportunity provided by the Commission to meet with
people from other faith traditions and to grow in respect
and understanding of the beliefs of others.
Margaret’s recent experience at the Archdiocesan Synod
has shown her how vitally important it is to develop good
communication channels for ecumenical and interfaith
across the Archdiocese. For growth to continue, it is
essential that people at parish level are made aware of the
importance of ecumenical and interfaith collaboration and
of the many wonderful things that are already happening
both at local and diocesan level.
COMMISSION NEWS
LOCAL NEWS
(continued)
John Paul College
Catholic/Jewish Relations
Subcommittee Report
Due to the fact that the group had
been involved in other activities
(see below) no formal meetings were
held in April and May.
• Panel discussion hosted by Interim
Council & Jews: Judaism & Christianity – Siblings or Rivals, Stepchildren or Cousins? Rabbi John Levi
and Rev. Dr Ray Barraclough,
03/04/03
• Lecture by Rabbi John Levi on
Messianism in Judaism Throughout
the Ages
• Seder Meal – Invitation from
Shalom Synagogue,
16/04/03
Camp
Hill,
• Open Day, Camp Hill Synagogue –
tour of Synagogue, 18/05/03
At John Paul College, a ceremony was held in the gymnasium of the college to
mark the feast of Pentecost. This was the conclusion of several weeks of
Christian Unity Week celebrations in which students participated as readers,
prayer leaders and singers in the Sunday Services of the local Anglican,
Catholic and Uniting Church parishes.
It was a simple though very moving event. The theme taken was that of the
rainbow. The Year 12 Drama class began the Service by performing a dramatic
presentation, which highlighted that a rainbow can only be a rainbow if all the
colours, though different, coalesce. The strips of coloured cloth used in the
performance were then handed to the visiting clergy so that they could wear
them as “stoles” for the remainder of the service.
We were fortunate to have seven ministers present. They were Frs Murphy and
Warbrooke from the Catholic Church, Frs Redhead and Magee from the
Anglican Church, Rev. Senituli from the Uniting Church and Pastors Houliston
and Johnson from two local community churches.
Towards the end of the ceremony, representatives from the 85 classes in the
college (from Years 1 – 12) came forward to receive from the ministers a clutch
of coloured crepe paper, which they were to take back to their classroom to pin
on their notice board as a constant reminder of the theme of the service.
The final act of the celebration was to have all seven ministers pray the
blessing over the assembled college family.
Michael Slack
• Meeting with Cardinal Cassidy –
Chaplain
discussion on local and international Christian/Jewish Relations,
31/05/03
• Bat Mitzvah – Invitation to Bat
Mitzvah (women's initiation)
ceremony at Camp Hill Synagogue,
07/06/03.
Catholic/Pentecostal Group
The last meeting of the Catholic/
Pentecostal Group gathered with the
full contingent of members. A very
lively discussion on discipleship
ensued. It was interesting to note the
difference in emphasis from both the
Pentecostal and the Catholic perspective. The group openly shared both
the life giving and the negative
aspects of how 'discipleship' may be
perceived. For the Pentecostals it also
became a question of who is 'worthy'
to be a disciple as it is a formal term
used for those called to a leadership
role within their church.
The topic for the August meeting was
"Who Is The Holy Spirit"?
Trish Stapleton
Brisbane Catholic Education
From left: Rev. Lu Senituli (Uniting Church), Pastor Don Johnson (Calvary Family Church), Fr John
Magee (Anglican Church), Pastor Ken Houliston (Southside Community Church), Fr Ashley Warbrooke
(Catholic Church), Fr Paul Murphy (Catholic Church) and Fr Stephen Redhead (Anglican Church).
Stanley Rivers Covenant Community
The ecumenical Covenant Community at Stanley Rivers has been awarded a
grant from the James Warner Memorial Trust to run a Pastoral Care training
programme. Planning is under way in preparation for the commencement of
the course early next year.
The James Warner Memorial Trust is administered through Queensland
Churches Together. It commemorates the life of Canon James Warner,
a founder of the Brisbane College of Theology, Anglican priest and committed
ecumenist. It provides funds for ecumenical projects including:
•
•
•
•
training projects,
acquisition of resources for ecumenical libraries, etc.,
the promotion of ecumenism through liturgy and worship,
artistic and creative endeavour and prayer.
Applicants must belong to one of the member churches of Queensland
Churches Together who wish to improve their skills and knowledge in the area
of ecumenism or a student of Brisbane College of Theology wishing to undertake study at an approved theological institution.
Della Lopez
3
LOCAL NEWS
Ecumenical Coffee Brigade
The Ecumenical Coffee Brigade was begun
by Louisa Toogood in the early 1970’s.
Louisa went out in the early hours of the
morning to help the needy and the homeless. From her Morris Minor she would –
rain, hail or shine – serve these people
coffee and sandwiches. What started as one person going
out in the early hours of the morning by herself has now
become a large well-run group.
In one of the back streets of Spring Hill under a house is a
well-laid out kitchen where volunteers come and make
sandwiches each day. What used to be Louisa’s Morris
Minor is now a Mini Van, with three large urns set up in the
back to serve coffee, while from the side door sandwiches
are served by the container full. A paid person coordinates sandwich-makers and helpers for the morning runs.
Each morning at about 6:00am the van is loaded with hot
coffee and fresh sandwiches. The first stop is Kemp Place,
Fortitude Valley. Then it is on to Albert Park, Kurilpa Place
(below the William Jolly Bridge) and finally to the Gardens'
Point entrance to the City Botanical Gardens. On average,
between 170-220 people are served each morning and the
run takes less than two hours.
The Ecumenical Coffee Brigade receives minimum Government funding, and most of the ingredients such as bread,
ham, cheese and sometimes special treats come from
generous companies who donate some of their products.
A large pool of volunteers ensures that the task is spread
evenly with most people giving 2-3 hours a month to make
sandwiches or go out on the morning run.
“Why go out with the van and serve some of the needy
people of Brisbane? I find it an honour and am humbled to
serve those who have not been as fortunate as myself in
the circumstances of their lives. There are many interesting characters and stories amongst the group that we see.
I suppose my prayer is that as I serve I may bring a little
bit of Jesus to them, even if it is just in my smile or the
way I say ‘Good morning’.”
If you are interested in giving a few hours each month to
serve the poor and homeless in this way or you want to
donate foodstuffs to ease the financial burden, then ring
Helen (07) 3831 8219. It is heartening to know that many
of the poor of our city are at least given a cup of coffee, a
few sandwiches and a smile every day of the year in the
name of Christ.
The Kenmore Our Lady of the Rosary (OLR) Ladies Fellowship Group second quarter programme, arranged by Amy
Deans, included a "Mystery Tour" in May to visit the new
Mormon Temple. Four Anglican ladies joined the OLR
group in the guided tour of the very spectacular building.
In June they were joined again by some Anglican friends
when they drove to Mt Mee for a day of reflection with
Mercy Sister Mary Tinney at the "Four Winds" seminar and
meditation centre. The beautiful D'Aguilar Range is a
perfect spot for such a centre, which specialises in a
spirituality of the environment – in praise of God for the
beauty of creation. "Four Winds" is set in forty-three acres
of open forest and participants in meditation sessions are
invited in "quiet time" to walk in the property and savour
the wonder and beauty of God's world.
Morning tea was served on the veranda. Sr Mary then
presented a short reflective session inside which included
a history of the property. The group went outside for
prayers of praise for the environment, after which they
were happy to gather again inside for a shared lunch,
as the weather, though beautiful, was a little chilly.
The day concluded with closing prayers, readings from the
Psalms and a tape which the group agreed was a fulfilling
experience as well as a pleasant day in our beautiful world.
Veronica Ross
Catholic Commission for Ecumenism and Interfaith Relations
Nerang
In April, St Brigid's, Nerang Catholic Community of Faith,
held an Interfaith Prayer Day for Peace to which twenty
faith communities were invited.
Each community brought a prayer for peace to share with
the general congregation. The Prayer Day was attended by
members of the Catholic, Islamic, Orthodox, Anglican,
Uniting Church and Genesis faith communities. From the
start it was a very special day. The presence of God in the
unity of the congregation was quite tangible and it
extended from the church service to the shared meal
afterwards in the Parish Centre, where new friendships
were formed.
Liz Walheim
Liturgy Secretary
Lisa Humphrys
Kenmore
As usual, member churches of the Kenmore and District
Interchurch Fellowship gathered in June in the Moggill
Uniting Church to celebrate the end of the Week of Prayer
For Christian Unity. This year the service was arranged
by the Kenmore Community Church, which featured a
role-play and the very enthusiastic combined church band
to lead the singing.
Kenmore/Moggill parish priest, Fr Neil Byrne, is on sabbatical leave from June to December. During this time he will
study in Melbourne (Australian Church History and Spirituality), Louvain, Belguim (Theology & Scripture) and Berkley,
California (Ecumenical Studies).
4
Nerang Gathering
LOCAL NEWS
Mt Gravatt
By the beginning of July one cubic metre of goods had
been shipped to Nauru. Transport is quite difficult and
costly but even the shipping company picked up the goods
and dispatched them free of charge, taking money only for
the actual shipping freight. The appeal is still open.
The June meeting included a multicultural panel of guest
speakers:
• Jose Zepeda and Mary Gavin from Catholic Multicultural
Affairs,
• Letitia Bouloukos from the Ethnic Community Council
Queensland,
• Kelly
Yip from
Association,
the
Community
Development
• Razak Mohammed, the Imam from the Darra Mosque.
Ecumenical Prayer Group, Mt Gravatt
This happy group admiring the view from the top of
Mt Gravatt, are in fact, not tourists but members of a local
ecumenical prayer group. Belonging to several Anglican,
Catholic, Lutheran and Uniting Church congregations in
the area, they come together every second month to pray
for the needs of their own communities and especially for
the needs of the city of Brisbane, which they can see so
clearly from this venue.
The idea developed from a very successful “Christians in
Dialogue” programme held in the area some four or five
years ago. It appears that this is not the first prayer group
on the mountain as some of the local ministers met there
regularly about eight years ago and the lookout has also
been a venue for Carols by Candlelight and other
combined church gatherings. Mt Gravatt Uniting Church
minister, Rev. Roy Cowin is the driving force behind
the present initiative and leads the group in scripture
reflection and prayer.
Meeting dates and times are
advertised in local church bulletins and new members are
always welcome.
While in the Mt Gravatt area, the Week of Prayer for
Christian Unity Service was this year hosted by
St Matthew’s Anglican parish at Holland Park. Representatives of congregations along Logan Road, from
Greenslopes Mall to Garden City, participated. Michele
Knight gave an excellent presentation on the work of
Christian World Service (CWS) in the areas of overseas aid
and refugee support. Michele is the Field Officer for CWS
and works through the offices of Queensland Churches
Together (07-3369 6792). Michele is available to give
talks to parish and school groups.
Margaret Naylon
Ecumenical Social Justice Group/
Western Suburbs Inc.
In May, the ESJG/WS Inc. started an appeal for donations
of lengths of material, embroidery cotton, stationary, etc.
for the detainees in Nauru who wish to make clothes for
their children.
The Catholic Leader carried the appeal and since then we
have been overwhelmed by the response. Other church
newsletters picked up the appeal and people from as far
away as Townsville and the Gold Coast have donated all
sorts of fabrics, sewing kits, knitting needles, wool, sewing
patterns, etc. as well as two sewing machines.
The group is looking at the needs of ethnic communities,
at areas of possible cooperation (especially with MCA) and
at the needs of the Darra Muslim community. (The latter
consists mainly of Fijians. Some of them feel isolated and
some of their women feel discriminated against).
The Imam was happy to be invited to speak because they
are planning a general awareness-raising campaign for the
future. It is hoped to establish closer ties with this
community in order to offer support.
Priority is being given to raising funds to send some of the
young Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) holders and asylum
seekers to TAFE. We feel that the TPVs (5 or 6 of whom
are finishing school at Milperra this year) and the asylum
seekers who live in the community on $50 per fortnight
are the weakest members of the ethnic communities who
desperately need help. At present the group is trying to
establish how many of them live in the area.
As well as paying $200 for transport of goods to Nauru,
the group has donated $200 to the Benarrawa education
fund and supported the Romero Centre and other people
by organising tuition, emergency funding, etc.
Support was given to the Act of Grace Petition to the
Federal Parliament concerning the child detainees as well
as to the Jesuit Seminar held at the City Hall on Muslim/
Christian Dialogue.
Karin Chai
Secretary
Renew
The Renew Team has just completed a round of Top Up
Your Tank days for Teachers in State Schools. These days
are to assist Christian teachers in updating their training
and to share interesting and creative ways of teaching
RE in State Schools.
This year sixty people attended a day in Toowoomba which
consisted of two Plenary Sessions and the choice of six
workshops. The theme for this year, 'How do our children
learn?' allowed participants to learn about Multiple Intelligences and reflect on how this may affect teaching and
learning in a RE classroom. This workshop was repeated
at Murrumba Downs, Robina, Kenmore and Mackenzie.
As a result of these days being so successful the team was
invited to Maryborough to repeat the day for teachers from
all the Christian Churches in Maryborough, Gympie,
Bundaberg and Hervey Bay.
5
LOCAL NEWS
Sandgate
Good Friday each year sees the outdoor Stations of
the Cross, held around Dowse Lagoon at Sandgate. The
Stations ceremony is organised and arranged by Sacred
Heart Catholic Parish and invitations are sent to all other
denominations in the area. Up to 450 people take part in
the ceremony from various churches – Catholic, Anglican,
Uniting Church and Presbyterian.
The six hundred
metres is walked with participants carrying the cross,
accompanied by prayer and song.
Nigel Young
Pastoral Associate
Presiding at the sung Eucharist for Pentecost Sunday, the
Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall (Archbishop of Brisbane)
equated the message of John the Baptist and the Pentecostal spirit as the one sure hope the church has to offer in
times of trial and adversity.
“Whatever the scale of
confrontation before us – the church will always be there
to respond to it,” he said.
The service was followed by a pageant performed by
youth/children dressed in period costume tracing the
history of St John’s from 1903 to the present day. Many of
the old traditional hymns emerged during this delightful
presentation – much to the joy of visitors and senior
members in attendance.
Brunch and fellowship with past parishioners brought this
milestone of Christian witness and celebration to a delightful close.
That same weekend saw fifty-four children presented
at St Joseph’s Catholic Parish for the reception of
the sacraments:
Confirmation and First Eucharist.
A community celebration arranged by the parish Pastoral
Council to acknowledge and congratulate the children and
their families was well attended by many parishioners who
shared in the food, fun and festivities. All over our town –
the spirit was moving!
Nambour
At Easter, in true ecumenical spirit, St Joseph’s (Catholic)
and St John’s (Anglican) communities came together for
the blessing of the Easter fire and the Service of Light.
As the Paschal candles were traced, inserted with incense
and lit from the new fire, the prayer – “May the light of
Christ rising in glory, dispel the darkness of our hearts and
minds”, was prayed.
From the Paschal candles, individual candles were lit as
people gathered around the fire and listened to the
creation story from Genesis. Following the service of light
a spectacular candlelit procession moved around the
church grounds, parting at the main gates to go to the
respective churches for Easter Vigil Services.
To mark the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian
Unity, around sixty people representing the wider faith
communities from Sunshine Coast gathered at Najara –
Centre for Spirituality and Ecology to share in “The Spirit of
Taizé” through scripture and the silence of contemplation,
communal prayer and simple chants of praise. Over a light
supper which followed, many new friendships were
formed, with requests to gather again in September –
“Triumph of the Cross” for a Taizé evening of prayer and
praise.
The feast of Pentecost proved to be a spirit-filled time
of celebration in the life and tradition of Nambour’s
Anglican and Catholic communities. An open-day viewing
of photographs and other treasured memorabilia marked
the opening of Centenary Celebrations for St John
the Baptist parish (Anglican) was followed by a
commemorative dinner on the Saturday evening.
6
Other social events shared for the quarter include: Mission
Morning Tea (Lutheran), “Road to the Isles”, Musical
Morning Tea (Uniting Church). In late August is a Concert
Party of twenty-five (Anglican/Catholic) who will travel by
bus to St John’s Anglican Cathedral in Brisbane for a
matinee performance of “Prom Praise 2003” – a feast of
inspirational music, spectacular artists and a massed choir
from Anglican schools. Proceeds will benefit Anglicare/
Cathedral Building Fund.
Joan Pobjoy
St Josephs Nambour
Esk
In June, a fund-raising dinner was held in the Lyceum Hall,
Esk, to support the forth-coming inauguration of the
Brisbane River Valley Radio Station, 95.5FM.
This is to be a radio station with a difference. Not only will
it convey messages to our widespread rural community,
promote the Esk Shire and business sector, but also one
of its fundamental aims will be to emphasise true values
so as to balance the growing secularism in the media.
Different churches will contribute to the Sunday morning
programme and "Keeping the Family Together" will feature
in its overall productions.
There was noticeable evidence of the ecumenical
dimension at the dinner table shared by Ministers (or
their delegates) of several denominations representing
Brisbane Valley Churches Working Together. Evidence of
the hearty support this venture has had from the Shire
residents was the generous donations of food, catering
services, prizes, band and entertainment, resulting in
joyful unity as well as providing opportunities of service to
some 150 people.
Sr Mary Ormesher rscj
Pastoral Worker
LOCAL NEWS
Stafford/Kedron
In October 1994, a group of Christians in this area came together with a desire
to be witnesses to Christ's living word. Membership has now reached forty-two
ecumenical disciples from the Anglican, Assembly of God, Baptist, Church of
Christ and Uniting Church communions.
The group is incorporated under the name "Neighbourhood Gospel Sharing"
and it meets in members' homes once a fortnight to follow the Seven Steps
Gospel Sharing Method. Their vision is to build a happy, loving neighbourhood
through promoting God-centred homes, care of the sick and marginalised of all
races and creeds, to provide opportunities for people to be "fully human",
to each grow in personal relationship with God and to celebrate God and give
thanks for God’s goodness and blessings.
and sang in their church.
The
c o m b in e d c o n g r e g a t ion s t he n
proceeded to the Star of the Sea
Catholic Church, where again hymns
and readings were part of the service.
An invitation was then extended to all
present to meet in the Parish Centre
for a cuppa. This was a very successful act of remembrance, and would
have been recognised by many people
as a Christian witness as the procession proceeded along the streets.
Brian Rickards
Current activities include:
• Group 61 (named for Is. 61). Seven members currently visit ten people who
suffer from anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, etc. through liaison with the
Prince Charles Community Mental Health Unit.
• Producing and distributing "Community Voice" – small monthly newspaper with
positive gospel values.
• Performing concerts and making Christmas presents for residents of two
nursing homes.
• Organising annual ecumenical and interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service.
• Intercessory Prayer on Saturday mornings at Place of Peace, Bradbury Park,
Kedron.
• Tending Place of Peace which was planted in 2000 in conjunction with Brisbane
City Council to commemorate Christ's birth.
• Helping to organise interfaith forums.
• Arranging community BBQs.
INTERFAITH PEACE FORUM
From left: Fr Pan Jordan, Rev Chueh Shan,
John Fox, Tony Kitchen, Rashida Joseph,
and Som Prakash
The
forum
was
held
at
St Therese’s Catholic Church Hall
in June. Rashida Joseph spoke on
behalf of Islam, Som Prakask on
behalf of Hinduism, Tony Kitchen
spoke
for Christianity and
Rev. Chueh Shan for Buddhism.
People found it very informative. Questions to the speakers kept coming,
showing that the audience wanted to be reliably informed about the position of
these great world religions.
Organisers apologised for holding the function on a Saturday as it precluded
the Jewish community from coming.
The topic for the morning was “Peace and Violence”. Each of the speakers
spoke about the prime importance of finding our own peace within in our quest
for peace among different peoples.
John & Margaret Fox
St. Therese's, Kedron
Cleveland
On Passion Sunday a procession was organised for the four main churches
located in Cleveland. On the day quite a number of people gathered in the
Anglican Church where hymns were sung and an appropriate passage from
scripture was read.
Those in the procession, complete with palms in hand, proceeded to the Uniting Church across the road from the Star of the Sea Catholic Church where a
similar service was celebrated. At the same time, Lutheran parishioners prayed
Redbank Plains
Covenant Community
The Uniting and Catholic Communities
of Redbank Plains came together on
the Sunday before Easter, this year to
celebrate and to re-affirm commitment to the Covenant. This Covenant
was signed in 2000 by Bishop Michael
Putney and Rev. Ray Reddicliffe, and
committed the communities to work
together, to support one another and
to manage jointly the Church building
which is shared with other local faith
communities.
This celebration was also the climax
to the ecumenical study group, which
was held weekly during Lent based on
the Lenten programme prepared by
Catholic Adult Education, Sydney in
conjunction with representatives from
other faiths. This study group has
been meeting twice yearly for about
six years. Throughout that time it has
come to realise the things shared in
common are greater than those which
have caused division.
Margaret Missen
Murgon
Ecumenical Prayer and Praise Services
are celebrated once a month on a
Wednesday evening.
The various
churches take it in turn to host the
service, which gives the local church
congregations the opportunity to
meet and share fellowship as well as
to worship together.
On fifth Sundays once again the congregations take it in turn to present a
Prayer Service at Goomeri, a small
town to the north east of Murgon.
To keep Christianity before the public
eye the ministers take it in turn to
write a column in the local newspaper
called "Pulpit Notes".
Fr Paul Kelly
7
QUEENSLAND CHURCHES TOGETHER
Representatives from the Ecumenical Committees/Commissions of the member churches of Queensland Churches
Together were invited by the Uniting Church Queensland Synod Ecumenical Relations Committee to an evening of
sharing, fellowship and discussion. The venue was the Uniting Church Centre, Bayliss Street, Auchenflower.
Guest Speaker was Anglican Archbishop Phillip Aspinall who presented "Issues & Prospects – the current state of play in
Anglican/Uniting Church Dialogue in Australia".
Questions and discussion followed the presentation and participants then shared a meal. It is hoped that this may
become an annual event hosted by the various member churches as a way of exchanging ideas and information on
ecumenical activities.
The following is a précis of Archbishop Aspinall's address:
• Formal conversations between the two churches began in 1979, the goal being mutual recognition of each other's
Baptism and an invitation to each other's Eucharist.
• In 1998 a special joint working group was established to look at mutual recognition of ministries. The 2001 report
from this group, "For the Sake of the Gospel" is the focus of present discussions.
All ecumenical dialogues between the Anglican Church and other Christian churches are framed within the Lambeth
Quadrilateral, which affirms four key elements: The scriptures, the creeds, the sacraments (Baptism & Eucharist) and
bishops. Agreement is looked for in these four areas as a basis for moving forward.
At the present time in the Australian dialogue between the Uniting Church and the Anglican Church there are no
significant issues in relation to the first three elements of the Lambeth Quadrilateral – scriptures, creeds and sacraments.
The big issues arise in the area of ministry, ordination and bishops.
The problem for the Anglican Church is how to be consistent in all bi-lateral dialogues at local, national and international
levels because of the range of theological views and emphases within the church. Archbishop Peter Carnley, Anglican
Primate of the Australian church, argues that a more fundamental question of the relationship between ordained ministry
and the church must be clarified before the question of episcopacy can be settled – Is the church a community gathered
around a minister (the Baptism Eucharist Ministry – BEM – approach) OR does the ordained minister of Christ call a
community into apostolic ministry (the ARCIC I approach)?
The essential problem remains that the Anglican Church of Australia is an Episcopal church and the Uniting Church in
Australia is not.
Veronica Ross
Catholic Commission for Ecumenism and Interfaith Relations
Unity Move – mid July
Plans for a merged Anglican and Uniting Church denomination have moved a step closer to reality.
While "full organic union" could be decades away, because of disputes over the powers of deacons and the role of
bishops, the Uniting Church has approved a resolution to pursue closer links with Anglicans.
The Uniting Church's National Assembly, meeting in Melbourne yesterday, agreed to move towards entering a "covenant
of association and inter-communion" with the Anglican Church.
The step mirrors developments in Britain, where the Church of England voted on Monday to forge a loose alliance with
the country's Methodists.
Australia's Uniting Church was formed in 1977 as the result of a merger between large sections of the Methodist,
Presbyterian and Congregational denominations.
A watered down resolution was passed that fell short of declaring that the denominations had reached a common ground
on all essentials of ministry. In the short term, however, the resolution does mean that struggling Uniting Church and
Anglican parishes can in principle join forces and share a minister or church.
CathNews
HOW TO CONTACT QCT:
Queensland Churches Together
Old Bishopsbourne
St Francis Theological College, Milton
› P.O. Box 2045
MILTON B.C. QLD 4064
( 07-3369 6792
• 07-3369 8573
8
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES AUSTRALIA
1. NEW CATHOLIC REPRESENTATIVE
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has appointed Bishop Michael Putney of Townsville to replace Bishop Peter
Ingham of Wollongong as alternate to the head of church (Archbishop Francis Carroll) on the NCCA executive.
The General Secretary acknowledged the wonderful contribution made by Bishop Peter during his time on the Executive.
2. NEW NCCA PRESIDENT
The announcement by the Search Committee that Rev. Professor James Haire had agreed to take on the role of President
of the NCCA for the next three years was greeted with unanimous joy and thanksgiving. The end of James' term as
President of the Uniting Church in Australia coincided with the end of Rev. Lance Steicke's three years as President of the
NCCA. In its nine years of existence, the Council has been greatly blessed with leaders of passion, commitment, and
vision for ecumenism.
3. NCCA WEBSITE
Staff members of the NCCA are currently hard at work updating materials for the website. It will be on line with a new
look at the beginning of August. Check it out at www.ncca.org.au.
4. REFUGEE AND MIGRANT SUNDAY
Refugee and Migrant Sunday is celebrated annually by all mainstream Christian Churches usually on the last Sunday of
August. A resource kit, which includes liturgical material and an action guide, is available in June on the NCCA website
www.ncca.org.au.
5. INTERFAITH DIALOGUE
The Australian National Dialogue of Christians, Muslims and Jews (ANDCMJ) was launched in Sydney in March. It has
attracted a deal of media and government attention and has been cited by government representatives as an example of
religious cooperation in Australia. Meetings of the dialogue are currently discussing controversial concepts in each
religion – Jihad for the Muslims, Zionism for the Jews, and Trinity for the Christians.
6. REQUEST FOR PRAYERS
Churches are encouraged to pray for the new Governor-General and for Australia as we begin this new phase in our
growth.
7. BILATERAL DIALOGUES
There are plans to publish documents resulting from more recent bilateral dialogues in a second volume of 'Stages on
the Way'. Volume 1 was published in 1994.
Elizabeth Harrington
Queensland Delegate
New Council of Churches President highlights Catholic membership
The incoming president of the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA), Rev Professor James Haire, has
described Australia as a "pacesetter in ecumenism", citing the Australian Catholic Church's full membership of the NCCA.
"In the Asia region, we're one of the very few countries where the Roman Catholic Church is a full member of our council
of churches," he said. "We Australians are very bad at giving ourselves a pat on the back. But in this area we really are at
the cutting edge."
The Council exists to strengthen the cause of Christian unity. Fifteen major Australian churches form its membership.
It works to bring churches closer together and helps them find a common cause and a common voice.
This week Professor Haire ends his term as President of the Uniting Church in Australia. He has also been named as
incoming Director of the National Centre for Christianity and Culture in Canberra, and Professor of Theology at Charles
Sturt University.
The General Secretary of the NCCA, the Rev. John Henderson, said the NCCA is delighted that Professor Haire has
accepted the honorary position of President and that he and the Council look forward to the energy and wisdom that
Professor Haire brings to his leadership in ecumenical affairs.
SOURCE: National Council of Churches of Australia
9
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES AUSTRALIA
Churches Challenge All Political Parties to Support New Initiative on Refugee Policy
The National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) endorsed a new national initiative – “Make the right choice” – which
challenged all political parties to unite in adopting fair policies for refugees and asylum seekers. The initiative was
launched by “A Just Australia”, a national umbrella group of refugee advocates.
“Make the Right Choice” urges the Australian Government to:
• Provide permanent protection for all refugees, with assistance to return home on a voluntary basis,
• Introduce a process for humanitarian visas or solutions for those stuck in the limbo of long-term detention, and
• Immediately release children and their families into the community.
“Clear opportunities now exist for a fresh approach bringing together the goodwill, resources and expertise of government, church and community to choose a fuller life for refugees and asylum seekers and to heal divisions in the wider
community. Only the wisdom, courage and will is needed to do it”, said the Rev. John Henderson, the NCCA’s General
Secretary.
“The Federal Government has recently confirmed that state welfare authorities can remove children from detention
centres for the children’s well-being. Other political parties urge the Minister to allow children and their families to be
released. The Federal court has ordered the release of asylum seekers who are prepared to leave Australia but are
stateless or will not yet be accepted by their home or third countries. Without release these people would suffer
indefinite detention.”
“The churches urge all players to seize these openings and introduce a more humane policy. Today’s “Make the Right
Choice” initiative is a blueprint for this. Jesus urged us to choose life in all its fullness and to offer such life to others”,
said the Rev Henderson.
“The churches have long offered support to people fleeing persecution and helped advance their cause in society. Now,
the NCCA has called for an end to the detention of children and Australia’s mandatory, indefinite and non-judicially
reviewable detention system, which grossly exceeds the needs of initial identity, security and health checks. It has also
called on the Government to cease issuing Temporary Protection Visas to refugees instead of providing the security of
permanent protection and residency”, said Mr James Thomson, NCCA’s Refugee Education and Advocacy Officer.
NCCA Media Release 2 July 2003
Week of Christian Unity Prayer
In June, a number of people gathered to pray together at the Chapel of
St Stephen to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The format for
prayer was based on the Resource Kit for Parishes complied on behalf of the
Faith and Unity Commission of the National Council of Churches in Australia.
The inspiration for the week was taken from Scripture:–
“We hold this treasure – this gift – in earthen vessels…
therefore we do not lose heart…2 Corinthians 4:7;18.
During the gathering song, “Earthen Vessels” the Synod 2003 clay pot was
brought through the assembly and placed in a prominent place, together with a
candle representing the Light of Christ to all peoples. Asking forgiveness for
failures against unity with people of other faiths; against injustices suffered for
those seeking asylum with in our society and our lack of love for ourselves and
neighbours were among the prayers of intercession.
The Gospel John 4:19-25, was a stark reminder that the place of worship does
not matter, but there is a need to worship in spirit and in truth.
Members from the Catholic Community, Anglican and Uniting Churches were
present. Although there was not a large crowd at the prayer, this time offered
an opportunity for people to come together during their lunchtime in the city
and pray for Christian Unity.
Sandwiches, coffee and cake were shared with each other after the Prayer
Service, along with conversation and laughter.
Gay Williams o.s.u.
10
INTERFAITH
Cardinal Cassidy’s Visit
Brisbane College of Theology Graduation
On the occasion of his recent visit to Brisbane to speak at
the 20th anniversary graduation ceremony of the ecumenical Brisbane College of Theology, Cardinal Edward Cassidy,
Past President of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion
of Christian Unity, congratulated the College on its vision
in taking up the ecumenical spirit. The importance of this
was officially recognised by Vatican II in its Decree on
Ecumenism. He emphasised the importance of educating
students of Theology with due regard to the ecumenical
point of view, adding that Australia was held in high
esteem for its contribution to international ecumenical
dialogue. Witness to this are the posts held by Archbishop
Bathersby (inaugral co-Chair of the International
Anglican/Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and
Mission – IARCCUM) and Bishop Michael Putney as member
of the Joint International Methodist/Catholic Dialogue.
Archbishop Bathersby was recently in Belfast at an
IARCCUM meeting.
Multifaith Hospital Chaplaincy
Following a seminar convened by Dr Judith Murray
(University of Queensland) and Dr John Barletta (Australian
Catholic University) in 2001 around issues of hospital
pastoral care, a Steering Committee has been working to
establish a Multifaith Council on health-care. On another
related front, for 18 months the chaplaincy coordinators of
nine Christian traditions have met on a regular basis.
This facilitated a joint voice from the churches with the
Queensland Health Department on the impact of Privacy
Legislation on hospital chaplaincy. The Multifaith Council
Steering Committee has recently sought expressions of
interest from Heads of Churches and faith groups with a
view to establishing a Multifaith Council in South East
Queensland. Given a shared commitment to the compassionate care of the sick, a Council would provide a forum
for these religious bodies to work together on matters of
significant interest. It is hoped to gather for the Inaugural
meeting in August.
Fr John Chalmers
Hospital Chaplaincy
CEIR Catholic/Jewish Relations Subcommittee
Before he flew out of Brisbane en route to Rome, Cardinal
Cassidy met with the Catholic/Jewish Relations Subcommittee of the Commission for Ecumenism and Interfaith
Relations at Wynberg.
Cardinal Cassidy spoke of his own experiences in
Christian/Jewish relations at the international level and
offered helpful advice and encouragement to the Subcommittee. The group has been meeting for the last three and
a half years, engaging in a process of self-education and in
conversations and various social contacts with members of
the Jewish community with a view to breaking down
barriers between the two faiths. His Eminence said such
conversations must be conducted on a basis of mutual
esteem and respect between the two covenant faiths,
emphasising the point that seccessionism is not accepted
today – God has never revoked the covenant with the Jews.
The Catholic Church has recognised this in deleting the
prayers for the conversion of Jews from the Good Friday
liturgy.
Interim Council of Christians and Jews
The first activity of the newly-formed Queensland Interim
Council of Christians and Jews was held at Griffith University Multifaith Centre when Rabbi John Levi (Melbourne)
joined Rev. Dr Ray Barraclough (Anglican Church, Brisbane)
in a panel discussion addressing the topic: "Judaism and
Christianity: Siblings or rivals, stepchildren or cousins?"
This was based on a recent document issued by the
Pontifical Biblical Commission, "The Jewish People and
Their Scriptures in the Christian Bible". The panel was
chaired by Rev. Dr Rick Strelan (Lutheran Church,
Brisbane).
Rabbi Levi, who is interested in archeology, added to the
evening by showing various artifacts, e.g. a Jewish coin
(Temple money from the era of the Second Temple) and a
pottery vessel for wine, which dated from the time of
Jesus.
The Interim Council of Christians and Jews grew out of a
joint working group between the Jewish Board of Deputies
and Queensland Churches Together.
Objects of the
association are:
• To promote among Christians and Jews through
education and dialogue, an appreciation of each other's
distinctive beliefs and practices and their common
ground;
• To promote study of and research into historical,
political, economic, social, religious, cultural and racial
causes of conflict;
• To promote for the benefit of the community, education
From left: Anne Van Deurse, Trish McGrath, Jennifer Mitchell,
Cardinal Cassidy, Alan Moss, Hilary Scarce, Veronica Ross,
Margaret Naylon and Jan O'Donoghue.
in ethical
Judaism;
teachings
common
to
Christianity and
• To promote the development of networks of Christians
and Jews that give effect to the above-mentioned
purposes.
11
INTERFAITH
Jesuit Seminar on Christian/Muslim Dialogue
Organisers of the Jesuit Seminar on Christian/Muslim
Dialogue at the City Hall, were overwhelmed by the
gratifying public response. The Ithaca Room was filled,
with extra chairs being placed on the stage and in the
aisles to accommodate the crowd.
Dermott Dorgan was invited to open the evening with his
song, "East is East", written for the occasion – a musical
request that people accept and respect each other.
Self-confessed Buddhist and anarchist, Sandy McCutcheon,
of the ABC's Radio National, ably chaired the seminar with
his usual aplomb, and Lord Mayor, Tim Quinn, welcomed
the distinguished speakers and the audience, as well as
the opportunity to present Brisbane as an inclusive city.
Jesuit, Fr Dan Madigan, founding Director of the Department for the Study of Religions and lecturer in Islamic
Studies at the Gregorian University, Rome, addressed the
world-wide problem of the fear and distrust between
Christians and Muslims engendered by such events as
September 11, the two Gulf Wars and, in Australia, the
so-called "gang wars" in Sydney. Much of this stems from
labelling each other without there being any understanding of each other's beliefs. "Christian" and "Muslim" are
abstractions, which must be embodied so that barriers can
be broken down. The two communities need to come face
to face – not in confrontation but so that individuals can
meet one another, listen to one another and so come to
understanding of and respect for one another's beliefs.
Because of the violence and division perpetrated in the
name of religion over the centuries the secular world has
condemned religion as being a failure, so if Christians and
Muslims are serious about realising God's dream for all
they must stand side by side (acknowledging the
differences between them) and face together the many
issues of justice and mercy they are called to in faith.
In conclusion he challenged the audience with such
questions as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Will we continue to confront one another?
share a commonality of thought in matters of compassion,
social justice, ethics, etc. We must move from love of God
to love of neighbour. We share our schools, our towns,
our country – we must learn to live together in peace.
This must be our starting point rather than differences in
theology.
While there are Muslim extremists (as there are in all
faiths) Islam has become demonised in the world.
Demonisation of a community is a great danger, which
develops slowly leading to a climate of hate and distrust;
e.g. Germany and the Jews. Terrorism is inexcusable but it
does not belong only to the Muslim population. Muslims
in Australia feel discriminated against. Professor Saeed
pointed to the kaleidoscope of beliefs in Australia and
stressed the importance of freedom of belief – one's
beliefs must not be used against one's rights. He called on
Christians and Muslims to work together to dispel the
myths and so change the current climate of suspicion.
Fr Frank Brennan, Jesuit lawyer and human rights
advocate, posed some questions arising from the two
presentations:
• How do we bridge the differences?
• What can we achieve by a common ethic?
• How do we show the utility and goodness of religion to
those who believe it contributes to division?
• How do we learn to stand face to face?
And of each of the speakers he asked "How are you a
better Christian/Muslim through your study of Islam/
Christianity?
Each answered separately but the consensus was that
through the studying of the other religion each was
compelled to become more reflective about his own – a
creative and refining process.
The speakers responded to some questions and comments
from the floor.
Veronica Ross
Catholic Commission for Ecumenism and Interfaith Relations
Will we continue to label one another?
Do I have anything substantial to propose?
Am I prepared to encounter the other?
Will I remain on the sidelines?
Will I try to improve relations between Muslims and
Christians?
Professor Abdullah Saeed, Head of Arabic and Islamic
Studies at Melbourne University, said he did not wish his
address to be seen as a rejoinder to Fr Madigan's. This
was not a theological discussion (though both speakers
touched on theological aspects of the two religions).
He was speaking as a concerned Muslim and as someone
interested in working with people of other religions.
Australian Muslims make up 1.5% of the population and
there is diversity among them just as there is among
Christians – diversity of culture and ethnicity, of language
and of ideas of Islam. He expressed his appreciation of
UNIYA, the Jesuit Social Justice Centre which is presenting
the seminar series as a bridge-building initiative.
Muslims and Christians have a lot in common and it is
important to emphasise the positives. In history they were
not always in conflict. However, this changed in the
seventh century when conflict arose over political power,
land and resources. For all this, Muslims and Christians
12
Visit to the Kuraby Mosque
In April this year, the community at the Kuraby Mosque
welcomed a group of visitors of several Christian denominations. They were given a conducted tour of the building,
and the various aspects of the mosque were demonstrated
and explained (e.g. the ablutions, worship and study areas,
the style of decoration etc). The group, numbering about
50 people, observed evening prayer and teaching with
Assistant Imam Mohamad Abdalla which was followed by
an opportunity for questions and discussion, after which
refreshments were served.
The visit was sponsored by Young Adult Ministry, a part of
Faith Education Services of Brisbane Catholic Education.
It was pleasing to see people from many other churches
take up the opportunity to see 'what goes on' inside a
mosque, and to be able to have their questions about
Islam answered. Visitors described it as a 'wonderful
learning experience' and were delighted with the great
sense of respect and courtesy shown by all.
It is hoped to follow up with further visits in coming
months.
Madonna Botting
Young Adult Ministry, Catholic Education
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
An Agreed Statement on Baptism Between the Anglican, Evangelical Lutheran and Catholic Churches in PNG
On Saturday, 19 July the Anglican Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Catholic Church in PNG signed an
historic Agreed Statement on Baptism at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral in Port Moresby during an ecumenical prayer
service beginning at 3:00pm. Brisbane's Archbishop John Bathersby was an invited guest.
In this document the three churches confess together their common teaching that “in the sacrament of baptism the Holy
Spirit truly incorporates us into Christ and into his church” so that we are “reborn to a sharing of divine life.” Through
baptism a person “becomes a child of God” and “becomes an inheritor of God’s Kingdom.”
The agreed statement declares that the three churches recognise the validity of the baptism administered by each of the
other churches. This not only means that the rite of baptism should not be repeated. It means that these three churches
recognise the apostolic roots of their common Christian faith.
The agreed statement does not mean or imply any kind of merger. The three churches, though recognising the validity
of baptism administered by each one, still remain three. They continue to celebrate their own rite of baptism as found in
the Anglican Book of Common Prayer, the Lutheran Book of Worship and the Catholic Rite of Baptism. The agreement on
baptism does not mean that members of the three churches can now share in a common Eucharist.
The agreed statement was signed by Archbishop James Ayong for the Anglican Church, Bishop Wesley Kigasung for the
Lutheran Evangelical Church and Bishop John Ribat for the Catholic Church. Everyone is welcome to join in celebrating
this special expression of unity in Christian faith.
A Covenant Between the Anglican Church of PNG and the Roman Catholic Church in PNG
On Sunday, 20 July at St Martin’s Anglican Church in Boroko, the Anglican Church and the Catholic Church in PNG signed
a special Covenant during an ecumenical prayer service starting at 4:00pm.
In 1988 the bishops of the Anglican and Catholic Churches in PNG formed an Anglican/Roman Catholic Commission,
which has been meeting regularly to strengthen a growing respect for one another, to discuss their differences and to
share their common faith in Christ. In 1995 this commission began to write a covenant expressing their desire to
continue to work toward full visible unity.
While both the Anglican and Catholic Churches work closely with other Christian Churches in PNG, there has been a long
tradition of a special relation between Anglicans and Catholics in PNG, which is expressed and strengthened by the
Covenant.
The Covenant begins: “believing in the will of God that all Christians are called to be one…encouraged by many years of
dialogue…and wishing to respond to the pastoral needs of our people…we the bishops of the Anglican Church of PNG
and the Catholic Bishops Conference, in the name or our clergy and people, enter into this covenant.” They go on to
affirm that “the Holy Spirit, having revealed a rich diversity of gifts in the Anglican and Roman Catholic communions
while never ceasing to draw these communions into the fullness of ecclesial unity in Christ...now prompts us to overcome
the separation which exists in doctrine and ecclesial life in order to achieve that full visible unity which Christ wills for his
Church.”
While this Covenant does not mean that the two Churches have become one or that intercommunion is permitted
between these Churches, it does represent an important step toward a fullness of unity.
The Covenant was signed by Archbishop James Ayong, the Primate of the Anglican Church in PNG and Bishop John Ribat,
the Catholic Bishop delegate for ecumenical affairs.
Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane is the Catholic co-chairman of the newly formed International Anglican/Roman
Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission (IARCCUM) which is to promote a broader “reception” of existing agreed
statements. He has responded positively to an invitation to come to PNG July after attending an IARCCUM meeting in Belfast. The plan is to have him meet with our local PNG Anglican/Roman Catholic Commission and then be with us for
these special ecumenical services.
Fr Bill Fey OFM CAP
13
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
UK Conference on Christian Unity
At a major conference on Christian Unity held at St Alban's Abbey, Hertfordshire, in May, keynote speakers were the
Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Rev. Dr Rowan Williams, Cardinal Walter Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council
for the Promotion of Christian Unity and a leading Catholic theologian, and the Rev. Elizabeth Welch, former Moderator
of the General Assembly of the United Reformed Church and a former member of the Central Committee of the World
Council of Churches. The Conference, entitled "May They All Be One...But How?", aimed to stimulate, encourage and
inspire a renewed commitment to discover a form of unity which is practical and achievable in the next generation.
It was emphasized that Christian Unity and Ecumenism are central to the life of the church.
In his address Archbishop Williams stressed the importance of prayer and mission and explained that unity is when
people are drawn into Jesus' own relationship with God the Father. "Unity relies on the everlasting fact of self-giving,"
he said. It is most fundamentally what is happening in Jesus...contemplative emersion in his relationship to the Father."
As a framework to exploring Christian Unity, Dr Williams defined four pillars:
•
•
•
•
Contemplation;
Pilgrimage – is being rediscovered through a Christian action. Walking together becomes a transforming reality;
Festival - celebrating together;
Service - a celebration of what calls us in Christ's name.
The church is a community where Christ gives in each to all. When we recognise this we know God's eternal giving.
The Archbishop said that recognition of the gift that God gives was the category that encapsulated what he had been
saying about prayer and mission being fundamental to unity.
He also talked about his intentions for the Anglican Gathering of bishops, clergy and laity in 2008 as being a chance for
exploration and celebration as opposed to a forum for discussing issues.
Transmitted by QCT News (E-mail)
Cardinal Kasper in his keynote address stated that while ecumenism is in crisis this means that the old ways have come
to an end but that new possibilities open. He warned of two dangers to be avoided:
• Academic ecumenism.
Theological dialogue is very important but this must be carried over into grass roots
understanding and action.
• Ecumenical activism. Endless conferences, etc. of perpetual repetition. There must be visible outcomes of all the
academic discussions.
He sees the way forward lies in spiritual ecumenism and ecumenical spirituality. We must come together to pray for the
outpouring of the Spirit (Acts 1:12-14) . As at the first Pentecost there can be no ecumenism without conversion and
renewal, without purification of memories and forgiveness. Christians must read the Bible together, exchanging spiritual
experiences and collaborating in service to the poor, the sick and the outcast. The academic debates must be translated
into modern language and into everyday life and experience. This kind of ecumenism is accessible and obligatory to all.
He concluded by saying ecumenism is not a way back; it is a way forward into the future. Ecumenism is the expression
of a pilgrim church, of the people of God, which in its journey is guided, inspired and supported by the Spirit, which
guides us in the whole truth (Jn 16: 13).
"The Tablet" 24 May, 2003
www.thetablet.co.uk
The fifth
O God, holy and eternal Trinity,
We pray for your church in the world.
Sanctify its life; renew its worship;
World Conference
Empower its witness; heal its divisions;
Make visible its unity.
Lead us, with all our sisters and brothers,
on Faith and Order
1993
14
Towards communion
In faith, life and witness
So that, united in one body
By the one Spirit,
We may together witness
To the perfect unity of your love. Amen.
i For Your Information
Some light relief
Disability Resource
LET THERE BE LIGHT (BULBS)
A new resource, Confidence and Capacity:
Parish
communities knowing and supporting people with
disability was launched in July. This resource book is
written to assist faith communities to reflect on their
capacity to be communities in which people with disability
are integral members. It is designed to build confidence in
individuals and communities to develop the necessary
actions that ensure that people with disability have every
opportunity for full participation in their faith community.
Further information can be obtained from Marie Ford
at Brisbane Catholic Education (07-3840 0599) of
[email protected].
How many _________ does it take to change a light bulb?
Charismatics: Only one – hands already in the air anyway.
Catholics: None – They use candles.
Pentecostals: Ten – one to change, nine to pray against
the spirit of darkness.
THE MOUSE HOUSE
www.uniya.org (Jesuit Refugee Service)
Uniya is a social justice research centre which seeks to
respond to regional and global justice challenges. It aims
to develop well-researched strategies within Australia and
beyond. This year, they have a strong focus on Refugees.
www.apanetwork.org
This is a new website (still being developed) informing
about works and activities of Pastoral Associates around
Australia. Two texts at their recent National Conference
“Fanning the Flame: Hidden Treasure or Compelling
Imperative? “The Disturbing Ministry of the Evangeliser:
Changing the World”
Anglicans: Ten – one to call the electrician, and nine to
say how much they liked the old one.
Uniting Church: We choose not to make a statement
either in favour of, or against, the need for a light bulb.
However, if, in your own journey, you have found that a
light bulb works for you that is fine. You are invited to
write a poem, or compose a modern dance about your own
personal relationship with your light bulb, and present it
next month at our annual light bulb Sunday service, in
which we will explore a number of different light bulb
traditions, including incandescent, flourescent, three-way,
long-life and tinted, all of which are equally valid paths of
luminescence.
Anglican Church Pew Bulletin
Mackay District
www.qld-churches.asn.au
Queensland Churches Together. The aims of QCT are to
encourage member churches to pray together and share
faith while respecting each other’s disciplines, doctrines
and traditions. It also aims to foster Christian unity
through dialogue and discussion and in common
evangelisation, church renewal, social welfare, public
issues and education.
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of Leaders of Religious Institutes Queensland. It publishes
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gives information about relevant topics and offers other
web sites for further explanation of key issues.
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