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Bringing the light of Christ into communities

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ISSUE 3 – 2016

Chief Executive Officer

update

Community opens

its arms to rich

Australian heritage

National Volunteer

Week recap

Purveyors of hope

Buckingham Gardens’

top marks

Praying for rain

Support our Community Chaplains

1800 600 900giftachaplain.com.au

Welcome to this edition of Networking.

You will notice our beautiful cover art, titled ‘Just Blue’. This painting is the work of one of our talented aged care residents, Betty Clark.

The artwork depicts her life living with mental illness. The 98 year-old entered the artwork as part of a competition, with the piece to be featured in the Older Person’s Mental Health First Aid Handbook.

It really is a beautiful piece of art. Congratulations Betty on creating such a personal, introspective and wonderful piece.

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

In August last year, we released our Reconciliation Action Plan to guide us on a path to a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and non-Indigenous Australians stand together as equals.

As an organisation, we marked National Sorry Day on 26 May and National Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June. You can find out more about these events on pages 7-9.

networking Churches of Christ in Queensland 41 Brookfield Road Kenmore Qld 4069 PO Box 508 Kenmore Qld 4069

facebook.com/cofcqld

07 3327 1600 [email protected]

cofc.com.au

Networking is published bimonthly (February, April, June, August, October and December) and contains a variety of news and stories from across Churches of Christ in Queensland. Articles and photos can be submitted to [email protected]. The submission deadline for the next edition of Networking is Tuesday 12 July 2016.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK 2016

From 9 to 15 May we hosted a number of celebrations across Queensland and Victoria to celebrate our 1,552 volunteers. They really are an invaluable part of our organisation, and it is encouraging and heart warming to see that how substantially our volunteer program has grown in the past year. We are blessed to have so many individuals give their time. Read about some of the activities throughout the week on pages 20-23.

COMMUNITY CHAPLAINS – HELP US GIVE HOPE

Our community chaplains work to support, listen and care for families and individuals—young or old. They work tirelessly alongside people in the community to establish a pastoral care relationship—to learn people’s names, hear their stories and to seek to support them to find real comfort, relief and empowerment in all aspects of their lives. Essentially, they work to empower people to be able to recognise and resolve issues before they become a crisis.

The work of our community chaplains is priceless—and unfunded. Each year, they reach out to thousands of people to provide support and guide them on a path to a brighter future, but to continue we need your support.

Please make a donation today to the Community Chaplain appeal, and your tax deductible donation will mean that our chaplains can continue the amazing work they do in our rural communities, housing developments, care services, access places, churches and their general, local communities.

Go to giftachaplain.com.au to donate today.

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR CEO EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE AWARDS

Every year we celebrate the dedicated work of individuals, teams and projects from across our churches, missional and care services with the CEO Excellence in Service Awards.

Nominations are now open for he 2016 awards. Do you have a colleague or member of your church who deserves recognition for their commitment to living out our mission and bringing the light of Christ into communities? Then go to cofc.com.au/nominate today! Find out more on page 38.

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE 23 JULY – REGISTER NOW!

I am excited to be taking part in our second annual Women’s Conference on Saturday 23 July at the Springlife Conference Centre in Springwood. You too can join us for this enriching and enlightening event. Through workshops and guest speakers, including renowned journalist Heather Foord, we will join in exploring the concept that as women we are constantly aligned with, bombarded with and confronted by: beauty. There is still plenty of time to register at cofc.com.au/womens-conference.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Networking. Don’t forget, you can read previous editions of Networking and other publications online at cofc.com.au/publications

Desley Millwood Director – Communications

CONTENTSChief Executive Officer Update ..............4

Community opens its arms to rich Australian heritage .................... 7

Betty’s artwork illustrates life with mental illness .........................12

Buckingham Gardens’ top marks .........14

National Volunteer Week ..................... 20

Churches of Christ Medical Santo update ......................... 24

Running through the night to shine light on domestic violence ......... 28

Singles mingle at Singles Night ........... 28

Healthy ageing a key to longevity ........ 37

ARANA HILLS 50TH ANNIVERSARY19

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK20

PRAYING FOR RAIN29

A MOTHER’S DAY GIFT31

Chief Executive Officer’s

Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan

networkingChurches of Christ in Queensland

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MINISTERS FORUM AND ONGOING DIALOGUE WITH UK CHURCHES OF CHRISTA great gathering of all those in ministry and local church leadership within Churches of Christ in Queensland was held in May over two days at Whitehill Church of Christ. Dr. Martin Robinson was our keynote speaker from ForMission College and the Fellowship of Churches of Christ in the UK.

Martin’s visit followed the dialogue that opened up in 2015 between Churches of Christ in Queensland and the UK Churches of Christ movement. Further meetings were held during Martin’s recent visit to explore how we might be able to assist each other in growing our collective movement. Three areas of possible collaboration and partnership have emerged:

1. Leadership training: there are opportunities for us to work together in developing curriculum/mission focused content with ForMission College which will dovetail into our overall leadership development strategies.

2. Community engagement: the UK Fellowship is keen to learn from us on how we have developed our community engagement/care ministries and integrated them with our mission strategies. They see great opportunities for a partnership in this area.

3. Church planting amongst ethnic minority communities: Churches of Christ in the UK have been very effective in church plants amongst a variety of ethnicities. We believe that we can benefit from this expertise to help kick start a more vibrant church planting strategy with ethnic groups in Queensland.

Janette and Dean Phelan with Martin and Lynda Robinson.

Over the coming year there will be further Skype discussions and a further visit of UK leaders to forward these initiatives. Reciprocating Martin’s joining our recent leadership gathering I have been invited to join the 2017 Create conference in the UK to further the dialogue and relationship between UK and Queensland Churches of Christ leaders.

COMMITMENT TO START NEW WORKSWhen we look back we can see how many of our great Churches of Christ endeavors resulted from exactly these principles—a willingness to clearly discern God’s calling, to commit what resources were available, preparedness to proceed, and to work with God to provide the rest.

The beginning of Arana Hills Church of Christ is one such example. Early in 1966 Stafford Church of Christ was working hard to ensure its own future. So for members to consider starting a new work in Arana Hills was a huge leap of faith to say the least. A young couple, Ray and June Wilson began teaching Sunday school in their home, but from there questions arose like, how many children could be catered for and for how long? How many teachers would be needed? Could a minister be found and supported to establish the church? If the work was to take root, land needed to be purchased. When the church is established, a minister and his family would need a house/manse to live in. Most of these questions of course had a dollar sign attached to it, so how was this at all possible?

Arana Hills history records that in April 1966 Alex Surtees (Conference Home Missions) received the following from the church at Stafford: ʻThis is to inform you that the Stafford Board have decided to go ahead with launching a new work for Christ at Arana Hills. We do seek your prayers and your co-operation from time-to-time in this work. It is the intention of the Board to use Mr. C. McCosker a great deal in this work. Bible School will be commencing on 8 May, 1966, and Communion Services on 22 May. These will be held initially in the home of Mr. Ray Wilson, Narellan Street, Arana Hills. We have written a letter to the metropolitan churches asking help with information. A copy is enclosed.

One large problem we are going to be faced with will be financial, as we would like to buy land at Arana Hills and initially build a house which can be used for Bible School, Church and club work and later become a manse. It may also be possible to put a student into the house as well and this would mean a continued leadership. We shall endeavour to keep you informed of events and of special needs as they arise. Yours in Christian Service.̓

Since 2010 Churches of Christ in Queensland has been blessed with significant growth. Over the past six years, passionate local leaders have been prepared to meet regularly to discern God’s calling for them to bring more of the light of Christ into their communities. Twenty-seven Strategic Action Leadership Teams are now meeting regularly to forward the Gospel in new locations and through new initiatives. Resources have been committed and God has been evident on so many occasions. Many lives have been uplifted and transformed, and many new works are being initiated. Let us not rest on our laurels as we go forward over the next decade. Pray for continued discernment and willingness in all our churches for new work to be started.

Blessings Dean Phelan Chief Executive Officer [email protected]


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Arana Hills Senior Minister Simon Ward speaking at the 50th Anniversary on 22 May.

50TH ANNIVERSARY FOR ARANA HILLS CHURCH OF CHRIST The church was overflowing onto the balcony for this fabulous celebration. Photos and key events from each of the church’s five decades were presented and the best hymn from each period was sung, backed by the band. Communion was shared; Arana Hills Senior Pastor Simon Ward gave the sermon and I was invited to speak about the mission strategies being pursued by our wider Churches of Christ in Queensland movement. It was a top Sunday and a great encouragement to everyone involved.

The emcee for the event was past Arana Hills youth minister and current acting Chief Mission Development Officer, Steve Drinkall. At a recent Board meeting, Steve led a devotional focus around the story of the feeding of the five thousand (Mark 6:30-44). Some of the Board’s reflections on this passage were:

• The need was overwhelmingly bigger than the resources available—how to feed thousands of people when the disciples had no food or money?

• Jesus and his disciples were tired and the disciples felt they had already done more than enough; yet Jesus asked his disciples to feed the crowd.

• So, they scraped together five loaves and two fish and committed these to what Jesus was asking them to do.

• Having committed what they had, and a preparedness to proceed, God did the rest.

A Beautiful Life?

2016 WOMEN'SCONFERENCE

We are constantly confronted with beauty — what it is and what it,s supposed to be, whether we are or aren,t, and who it benefits and disadvantages.

Can everyone be beautiful? And if everyone is beautiful, then is anyone really beautiful? And why do we care so much?

— KOVIE BIAKOLO —

Guest Speaker – Heather Foord (renowned journalist and

Channel Nine News presenter)

The conference will include four workshops exploring different facets of beauty:

SEEING BEAUTY Facilitated by Janette Phelan Have you ever seen the world through the eyes of a young child? Their fresh delight and wonder at small everyday details challenges us to see the beauty that constantly surrounds us. This reflective nature walk aims to help you tune in and appreciate what is ‘right in front of us’.

THE BEAUTY IN VULNERABILITY Facilitated by Jan Monument‘Vulnerability is the birthplace of joy, creativity, belonging and love… and the path to accepting your worthiness.’ (Brene Brown). Are you willing to let go of who you think you should be in order to be who you are?

A BEAUTIFUL LIFE Facilitated by Stacey McBride-WilsonWe were created for so much more than just exercising to be a certain look, size or weight. Health and wellness are our tools for the journey, not our destination. In this workshop, explore how to be Fit for your God given Purpose in all areas of your life.

TOWARDS A BEAUTIFUL WORLD Facilitated by Ruth LimkinChanging the world in ways big and small requires we discover our divine discontent and learn how to translate that into action. Whether it is social justice, advocacy for women and children, corporate social responsibility or community development, discover how you can make tomorrow’s world more beautiful.

Saturday 23 July 2016Springlife Conference Centre, SpringwoodTime: 8.30am – 4.30pm | Cost: $65.00pp

Join with other women from Churches of Christ networks for a day of beauty, fun, reflection,

laughter, good food and good coffee. We look forward to seeing you there!

Register at cofc.com.au/womens-conference


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Community opens its arms to rich Australian heritageChurches of Christ in Queensland commemorated the vast culture and history of Indigenous Australians and their strong contribution to the Australian identity during National Reconciliation Week, which took place from 27 May to 3 June, with the theme ‘Our History, Our Story, Our Future’.

Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan said National Reconciliation Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn and appreciate the rich cultural history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and value their contribution for a better tomorrow.

‘Reconciliation is a journey that we are dedicated to, and through our Reconciliation Action Plan, our commitment walks a path that acknowledges our shared history with Indigenous Australians and seeks to build lasting relationships, transforming our future together’, Dean said.

‘We acknowledge the ongoing challenges and possibilities present in all of our communities. The future for all of us lies in strengthening relationships through trust, appreciation and love—working together to build family resilience and community strength that appreciates the richness and contribution that can come from different histories and culture.’

We are committed to fairness and equality of all people. Our commitment to reconciliation forms a promise to build stronger relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, develop a deeper understanding and respect of their cultures and create opportunities to work together.

As part of our journey to reconciliation, we have appointed a Group Manager Inclusion and Diversity to oversee plans and strategies, including the cultural inclusions framework, implementing the Reconciliation Action Plan and the workplace diversity and inclusion strategy, so that we can all enjoy a workplace that is free from discrimination.

What is National Reconciliation week?National Reconciliation Week is marked across Australia each year between 27 May and 3 June. The dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey—the anniversaries of the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

It is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.

27 May 1967Marks the anniversary of Australia’s most successful referendum and a defining event in our nation’s history. The referendum saw over 90 per cent of Australians vote to give the Commonwealth the power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognise them in the national census.

3 June 1992The High Court of Australia delivered its landmark Mabo decision which legally recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a special relationship to the land that existed prior to colonisation and still exists today. This recognition paved the way for land rights called Native Title.

National Sorry Day‘We apologise for the laws and policies of successive parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians… For the pain, suffering and hurt of these Stolen Generations, their descendants and for their families left behind, we say sorry.’1

Then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, 13 February 2008.

The first National Sorry Day was held on 26 May 1998, one year after the tabling of a report about the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families. The report, known as Bringing Them Home, acknowledged that Indigenous children were forcibly separated from their families and communities since the early days of European occupation in Australia. Governments and missionaries were responsible for this forced separation of Indigenous children, resulting in the Stolen Generation, which was government policy until 1969.

Australia’s then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd tabled a motion in parliament on 13 February 2008, apologising to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly the Stolen Generations, their families and communities, for the laws and policies that inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss. The apology included a proposal for a policy commission to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in matters such as life expectancy, educational achievement and economic opportunity. This event is seen by many as a step forward for healing and reconciliation.

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Ipswich housing residents mark occasion

Ben Zambra acknowledges the traditional owners and reads Kevin Rudd’s 2008 apology.

Danny Doyle educating the group.

Families come together

Residents from our Housing Services in the Ipswich area came together at a park in Booval in recognition of National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week.

Community Chaplain Ben Zambra acknowledged the traditional owners of the area, the Yagara peoples, consisting of the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul clans.

One of the community members, Francis, brought with him some Aboriginal artefacts and shared memories of his experiences in the outback.

It was a respectful and moving occasional for all.

In recognition of National Reconciliation Week, our Families Together intensive family support service at Caboolture held a workshop facilitated by Cultural Educator Danny Doyle.

A number of other local government services and family support agencies attended the event, as well as local Elder Uncle Bill and the Buranga Widjung Justice Group.

The workshop helped attendees learn a great deal about actions against Indigenous Australian’s through history, and many felt that this knowledge will help them when they are working with families in the future.

Case manager Leonora Yusia reflects on the workshop and what National Reconciliation Week means to her as an Indigenous Australian.

‘Reconciliation Week is an annual national event that celebrates and builds on the respectful relationships shared by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the wider Australian community. As an Indigenous member of the team, I did not necessarily need to coordinate the event—it was an idea discussed and organised by two non-Indigenous staff members. To me, this is one of the great things about it: this is part of what Reconciliation Week is about’, Leonora said.

‘For Families Together, it was a great way for the team to share and learn, listen to stories and make connections with community members like the local Elders and staff from other support services.’

‘We work with vulnerable families from all backgrounds, and this includes Indigenous families. As a population group, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can be socially excluded and marginalised in today’s society. Their past history alongside the social issues they experience today, make it difficult for many Indigenous families to access mainstream services.’

‘By holding this event, it was our way of showing that as a mainstream service how important our relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous Australians living in the local community are, and coming together to celebrate it.’


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Foster carer.Could you be one?

1800 22 22 73fosterwithus.com.au


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Foster carer Brittany and her daughter Laylah, with team leader Kelly Delaney and foster carer Jodi, enjoying the Mother’s Day morning tea

‘We have so much more still to give’

On 11 May, foster mothers from our South East Foster and Kinship Care Service were invited to a morning tea in celebration of Mother’s Day as a sign of appreciation for the love and support they provide to children and young people in their care. One of our foster carers who attended the morning tea (who has chosen not to be named) explained what it is like to care for and nurture a child who is placed in her loving home.

‘To be able to teach them to love and to understand themselves, it is very special’, she said.

‘It is simple, if you treat them with respect; they learn to respect you back.’

With events such as the Mother’s Day morning tea and the foster carer dinner recently, she said it is really nice to be appreciated.

‘Without the support of the agency, we couldn’t do it. It (foster caring) is a relationship between us as foster carers, the agency and the school to be able to care for the children and set them up for the future.’

At 71 and 72, the foster carer and her husband are not yet ready to stop caring, and still enjoy having foster children as part of their family.

‘We have just applied for our foster carers’ certificate again. As part of the process, they ask us how the children fit into the rest of our family. For us, they just become a part of our family. They do what we do, go where we go. We instil the values

that we have on them and show to them the importance of education and schooling and help them believe in themselves and what they can do’, she said.

‘We are able to give them experiences and opportunities they may not have had otherwise, and we are proud of that. We have had children come with us to meet the Premier; they come to family ceremonies with us.’

For her, it is a rewarding and heart-warming to see a child with no confidence, aptitude or motivation, develop from nearly dropping out of school to graduating Year 12 and working on setting themselves up for the future.

With children and young people coming into care from unimaginable disadvantage, who have started their young lives on the back-foot, it is foster carers like her who can give them the opportunity to grow and be set on a path where they can achieve their dreams.

‘We know how to give them the skills they need, even just simple things like catching the bus and the importance of school work’, she said.

There is always a need to more foster carers across Queensland. If you have ever thought about becoming a foster carer, go to fosterwithus.com.au to find out how you could make a difference to the life of a child or young person in need.


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Purveyors of hopeDuring Foster and Kinship Carers Week (25 to 30 April), peak bodies, government, service providers and committed individuals gathered for Foster Care Queensland’s Foster and Kinship Care Conference 2016. Churches of Christ Care was proud to be a major sponsor for the event.

Our Chief Operating Officer David Swain attended the conference and addressed his peers about the evolution of foster care services. In celebration of Foster Care Queensland’s 40th anniversary, he reflected on a time when many fostering organisations were created.

‘Like our greatly committed foster and kinship carers, many of our organisations started with the personal sacrifice of individuals who saw a local need, put their hands in their own pockets, and did what was needed at a time to make a difference, and then lobbied for broader community and government action’, David said.

He explained that over time, the government has assumed increasing responsibility for social policy and action, and community organisations have moved into the position of responder, channelling what the government offered, not necessarily what was needed.

‘I feel however that the tide is turning. We are experiencing a period of re-awakening where we are refocusing on what is needed in our communities, rather than what we need to do to perpetuate inefficient systems, or ensure organisational viability above all costs’, he said.

‘True reform that benefits the community can only come about through developing trusting relationships; ensuring community-based organisations work in the best interests of their community; recognising that a paid staff member is rarely a good substitute for a caring family, friends or neighbours; and understanding that we all have a role to play in creating a better community.’

‘This is the secret for future success: when we come together as one body with its many parts—the families, the researchers, the planners, the community leaders, the regulators, and the carers—we are capable of so much more than when we stay in our silos.’

New family support service for MackayAs part of our commitment to helping children and their families and responding to the needs in our community, Churches of Christ Care obtained funding to open a new Intensive Family Support Service in Mackay.

The service will be delivered in partnership with ATSICHS Mackay (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service), DrugARM, Aftercare and the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, as we work together to provide the best possible support to families in need.

In January 2016 we commenced the provision of Brisbane South and South West Intensive Family Support Services. We now have five Intensive Family Support Services (Families Together) and one Family and Child Connect Service in Hervey Bay, which are helping families stay together by providing them with vital early intervention and support services.

Betty with her family at her presentation with Mental Health First Aid.

In the immortal words of one of the greatest artists, Pablo Picasso; ‘Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life’.

Art has long been associated with mental health. Many people use it as a way to relax, refocus and connect with a deeper part of themselves.

Betty Clark has always found solace in art. The 98 year-old resident from our Fair Haven Aged Care Service has a wonderful portfolio of creative artworks, which she lovingly stores in her room, proudly showing to those who want to see them.

Betty answered the call for applications for artworks to grace the pages of the new Older Persons Mental Health First Aid handbook, submitting her prized painting

‘Just Blue’. She is delighted to be included in the handbook prepared by Mental Health First Aid Australia for something that is so close to her heart.

For artworks to be featured in the handbook, they had to represent an individual’s lived experience with mental illness, either as a sufferer or carer.

Fair Haven held a special presentation for Betty with her family present, to congratulate her, passing on a certificate from Mental Health First Aid.

Service Manager Annette Painter said Betty is very proud of her artwork.

‘The painting takes pride of place on a wall in Betty’s room’, Annette said.

‘It has only come down for the Mental Health First Aid presentation and for when it is part of art exhibitions.

There have been two exhibitions that have displayed her artwork—both for Seniors Week—the “Artist in Residence” and “Nurturing the Heart”.’

‘We are so proud of her, as she is proud of herself and what she has achieved. She is very excited to have her artwork featured in the book.’

Fair Haven promotes activities with their residents that encourage mental health and wellbeing. Along with painting and other art forms, they also enjoy various music activities, mental aerobics, quiz days and a weekly folk art workshop. The Creative Self – Expression Group Workshop, which involves poetry reading, creative drawing using mandalas, collage making, and visual Italian wool canvases, is popular with residents and promotes artistic expression and mental exercise.

Betty’s artwork illustrates life with mental illness

The beautiful, ‘Just Blue’.

Betty Clark with her prized artwork.


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HELP US BRING LIGHT INTO COMMUNITIES

DONATIONS: 1800 600 900

Listen Comfort Empower

At times in our lives we all need someone to take the time to listen and support us through life’s most difficult days. Our chaplains are on the frontlines today, bringing hope and light to those who need it

most. Please help us bring their support to communities in need at GiftAChaplain.com.au


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things the staff do for them that they don’t expect’, she said.

Residents said they feel respected and that staff respect their privacy at all times.

The auditors said they were able to witness many beautiful interactions between staff and residents.

‘They saw that it is a part of the culture that the residents can have whatever they want’, she said.

Pauline also received encouraging support for the physiotherapist at the service.

‘I am so proud that Craig (Wilson, physiotherapist) has been asked to put in a submission for better practice awards for his work with our gym and also the dance program.’

Congratulations Buckingham Gardens and keep up the good work!

Buckingham Gardens has 100 residents across cottage and housing models. It is one of 28 Churches of Christ Care aged care services across Queensland (26) and Victoria (2).

Arcadia residents with AFL legend Ken Fletcher at the Bombers training facility in Essendon.

A group of Essendon Bombers fans from our Arcadia Aged Care Service took the chance to visit the boys at their new training facility. Essendon Football Club legend Ken Fletcher (father of recently retired Essendon great Dustin Fletcher) showed the residents around the magnificent state-of-the-art venue, which includes an indoor training hall, player auditorium, swimming pool, recovery baths, gymnasium and heritage displays.

Many of the residents were amazed at the modern amenities and the type of strategies used to prepare for a game of football. Throughout the tour there were reflections on how football has changed over the

Buckingham Gardens has aced their accreditation.

Seeing the Bombers fly up

years as Ken took the time to share stories and answer questions.

Resident Pixie McNamee has a close association with the club, as she is the sister of famous Essendon player Dick Reynolds (known as ‘King Richard’), who is one of only

four footballers to have won three Brownlow Medals.

The residents were also able to watch a group of Paralympians train, who are using the Essendon centre to prepare for the Paralympic Games in Rio in September.

Buckingham Gardens’ top marksBuckingham Gardens Aged Care Service has come out on top following their recent accreditation, with the service scoring full marks.

Representatives from the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency visited the Alexandra Hills service and talked to residents and staff, reviewed official documents, and watched the workings of the service.

Service Manager Pauline Jones said that she is thrilled with the result.

‘The work the team has done with the Wellbeing Model of Care focussing on the residents’ wants and needs is all coming together’, Pauline said.

‘I am very proud of my team, and the residents comments are what we have been working towards.’

The residents told the assessors they are very impressed with the culture of the service and described it as their home and that it is a family.

‘They love the small dining room experience and all the little extra

International Nurses Day Each year on Florence Nightingale’s birthday (12 May), around the world the invaluable contribution of nurses is recognised on International Nurses Day.

The theme for 2016 was ‘Nurses: A Force for Change: Improving health systems’ resilience’.

Churches of Christ Care Arcadia Aged Care Service celebrated their nurses on the day with a lunch prepared by their chefs.

Service Manager Margaret Nuttall is a registered nurse and brought in her old nursing uniforms from throughout the years for her current nurses to wear. Items included a dress, hats and smocks, and showed the evolution of nursing attire over the years.

Residents Margaret Anderson (pictured) and Holly Coman are retired nurses, and enjoyed sharing their stories of working in a time when things were very different to how they are now.

It was a wonderful lunch where the nurses shared stories, good food and lots of laughs.

We have registered and enrolled nurses working across our community care and residential aged care services, providing professional care to our clients and residents.


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Above: Generations of nursing: Melissa, Jacinta and Margaret with resident Margaret Anderson.

Below: Nursing through the ages: Jacinta Kritikos (registered nurse), Margaret Nuttall (Service Manager) and Melissa Tettis (enrolled nurse).

Gabrielle, Elaine and Damien from Housing Services at the Homeless Connect event

Connecting Brisbane’s homelessOn Wednesday 18 May, our Housing Services staff attended Brisbane City Council and Volunteering Queensland’s annual Homeless Connect event, linking people experiencing homelessness with vital services. The event, held at the Brisbane Racing Club at Eagle Farm, provided a meal, clothing, medical and dental care, haircuts, hygiene services and access to a donation room filled with clothes, canned food, bedding, toiletries and more.

The event gave our staff the opportunity to engage with this vulnerable group, and provide them with information about our secure and affordable housing and wraparound support services. It was also an opportunity to network and build connections with other support providers and agencies.

Churches of Christ Care attended the event alongside government and community services organisations and specialist homelessness and support agencies.

#VoteHomeEvery night, more than 105,000 Australians don’t have a place to call home. That’s one in every 200 people.

With the federal election on 2 July, homelessness and housing sector partners have come together to launch the #VoteHome campaign, with an online petition calling on politicians from all parties for a national strategy to end the housing crisis by 2025.

The campaign is powered by peak bodies Homelessness Australia, National Shelter, Community Housing Industry Association and the Australian Council of Social Service.

As a provider or affordable and community housing, we are supporting this campaign by helping to spread the #VoteHome message through our networks and social media.

For further information, please visit HousingStressed.org.au

Listening to God without the static of lifeGod moves in mysterious ways, reaching out and guiding us to help those in need. This was demonstrated at the recent Churches of Christ in Queensland Ministers Forum, where attendees were challenged to participate in an activity similar to a program run with our young people at their recent camp—TAGYI (Timely Acts of Generosity You’re It).

The challenge was to spend time in a small group praying and listening to God for some key words or images that would lead them to a needy person or persons.

If their need happened to be financial, each group had $50 to pass onto the person in need, which could add to if they wished.

Minister and Army Chaplain Fred Davis attended the forum, and took part in the activity.

‘The group I was with consisted of three aged care chaplains, one community chaplain and myself. Being from a conservative background, I was a little cynical and wary. I knew that my wife’s church did something similar calling it “Treasure Hunting”’, Fred said.

‘Despite my reservations, I decided to enter into the spirit of the challenge. We began praying and listening. Out of the blue, I received two words separately. The first word was ‘shopping’. I thought it may have come from the fact that in the lead up the speaker had given examples of helping people with their groceries. Then the word ‘green’ just jumped into my head and I thought to myself, that’s a bit strange.’

After praying and listening in a group, they shared what had come to them. Fred shared the words – ‘shopping’ and ‘green’, which didn’t make much sense to him. The ladies shared what they had received—a vision of an ‘eye’, a ‘bridge’ at Leichardt, and a ‘young man’.

They headed off in the car to the bridge at Leichardt. As they approached the town they had to take a slight detour as there had been some road changes.

‘While making the detour, we spotted a young woman riding a bicycle with green shopping bags on the handle bars. We wondered if this might be the person, but then immediately doubted, as one lady had the vision of a young man’, he said.

‘As we proceeded around the street, a minor near accident in front of us involving a green car caused us to divert and stop in the nearby carpark. It was then that we decided to approach this young lady on the bike with green shopping bags. We decided that the group should separate so that we didn’t overwhelm her. As two of the ladies approached her it developed that a young man on a scooter was accompanying her. He later revealed that he was her current partner.’

The two chaplains talked to the young woman and man and explained the ‘Timely Acts of Generosity You’re It’ activity they were taking part in. One of the ladies showed them the list of the five clues that had led them to them. The only thing missing was the clue ‘eye’.

‘It unfolded that they had just been shopping and spent $35. As they were in their late-twenties and riding bikes and scooters, it was obvious that they were in need of some financial assistance. We handed over the money to them, for which they were very grateful. During the conversation, the young woman removed her sunglasses revealing a nasty scar near and across her eye. She stated that she had received it from having a plate smashed in her face by a previous partner’, Fred said. ‘What is the mathematical probability of five clues intersecting with a battered and scarred female on a bike to nowhere? God saw her. God nudged us. Only God does business like this. Five clues. One very scarred soul. It is just so like God.’

The chaplains prayed for the young couple and encouraged them to make contact with the church. Fred was left amazed that God still leads His people to those who are in need if we take the time to listen and have the courage to follow His prompts, just like Philip in the book of Acts.

So turn down the static. Turn up the volume of the Spirit.


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Cairns27 AugustThe Lakes Church102-104 MacNamara St Edge Hill Qld 4870

Brisbane24-25 AugustSpringlife Conference CentreSpringwood Church of Christ178 Springwood Rd Springwood Qld 4127

To register, go to freshhorizons.org.au

Since 2009, Fresh Horizons has been hosting conferences in Australia and New Zealand designed to help people Find Their Fit in Life’s 2nd Half.Conferences have focused on our aging population and intentional ministry to over 50s in the local church in order to mobilise them for mission and ministry.In case you hadn’t noticed, ageing has changed and one size no longer fits all when designing a 2nd Half Ministry. Imagine designing a youth ministry with the expectation that one style will suit everyone from age 15 to 25, yet so often that’s what we do with 2nd Half Ministry, expecting one style to suit everyone from age 50 to 80+. Diverse people require diverse ministry, without the hard edges.The conference’s keynote speakers are John and Jacque Coulombe from Fullerton, California, who will unpack this theme in a blend of presentations and interactive discussions.Specific sessions will deal with baby boomers, seniors and pioneers. John and Jacque have two adult sons, eight grandchildren and have been ministering at Evangelical Free Church in Fullerton for the past 27 years, seven of which were served with Chuck Swindoll.John’s current position is Intergen Pastor, where his focus is on recognising specific ministry styles while bringing the generations together in an attempt to end the segregation so common in churches today with specialized ministries. It’s about embracing unity with diversity.This is your opportunity to examine your churches approach to 2nd Half of Life Ministry and to consider what could be if we dispelled the myth of one size fits all.

Mission, Margin and Competition – leaders discuss changing environment for NFPsThe first Networking Breakfast for 2016 was hosted by Churches of Christ in Queensland on Thursday 19 May, with the popular event continuing to open new opportunities for organisations in the not-for-profit sector.

Enjoying breakfast and engaged by the discussion.

Approximately 140 industry leaders and corporate partners gathered at Hillstone St Lucia to hear our panellists discuss the topic of ‘Mission, Margin and Competition’, exploring how an organisation’s mission and values enables it to flourish in a competitive environment.

The panel consisted of Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan; Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia (Queensland Synod) Reverend David Baker; Executive Director of Anglicare Southern Queensland, Karen Crouch; and Principal Consultant of Community Business Australia, Patrick Herd. They engaged in proactive discussions lead by emcee Edwin Trevor-Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of Trevor-Roberts.

The discussion demonstrated the valuable work of the not-for-profit sector, government, corporate partners and other community groups. Sparking a discussion on the evolving landscape of aged care, due to the elevated demands of the Baby Boomer generation, panellists provided valuable insights into modelling Australia’s not-for-profit organisations’ to adapt to increased demand and competition.

Edwin Trevor-Roberts, Dean Phelan, Karen Crouch, Rev David Baker and Patrick Herd discussed the importance

of not for profit organisations aligning with their mission.

Thanks to sponsor Printing Success, the Networking Breakfast provided a platform and helped facilitate inclusion in key industry debate. Closing statements by the panellists recognised the importance of always going back to the heart of your organisation’s mission and creating the landscape that practices it the best.

Our next Networking Breakfast will be held in November this year.


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Arana Hills 50th anniversaryOn 22 May 1966, five people met in Ray and June Wilson’s lounge room to break bread; thus birthing the Arana Hills Church of Christ.

Current and past members, friends and families gathered together to break bread.

Where it all began: Col, David, Mrs Peatie, Win and June in July 1966.

Steve Drinkall and Dean Phelan celebrated Arana Hills’ 50 wonderful years and looked to the future.

Fast-forward 50 years to the day and four of those original five, Ray and June Wilson, and Col and Win McCosker, were joined by over 300 current and past church members, ministers, friends and their families to break bread and give thanks to our almighty God for His faithfulness over the past five decades.

Former Arana Hills Youth Minister and current Group Manager Mission Action, Steve Drinkall, capably led the afternoon’s activities.

Following communion and prayer, everyone enjoyed a celebration luncheon with music provided by the Walmsley Brothers. Pre-recorded video messages from Ray and June, past ministers and associates were projected, in which they reflected on their time at Arana Hills as well as offering words of encouragement as they look to the future.

Memories were jogged by presentations and reflections of the past half century, both from the world around us and Arana Hills.

Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan shared a little of his own history since coming to Queensland, and where and how he sees the church, and in particular Arana Hills, bringing the light of Christ into communities in the decades to come.

Senior Pastor Simon Ward encouraged everyone to live out their faith no matter where they are. What may be evidenced at church on a Sunday needs to be seen at home, at work, at school and at play.

As a reminder, everyone present was given a small potted succulent plant with a flag carrying the words ‘Growing and Changing’. Like the plant, we need the light from the Son and His living water to survive and grow.

Arana Hills Church of Christ looks forward to the next 50 years with great anticipation because they have seen and experienced the faithfulness of our great God over and over again.


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OUR VOLUNTEERSWEIMAGINE WHAT WE CAN DO TOGETHER

Churches of Christ in Queensland joined the nation in celebrating the significant role volunteers play in our community during National Volunteer Week held from 9 to 15 May, with the theme Give Happy, Live Happy.

We are blessed to have 1,554 active volunteers engaged in supporting events, mission and work across Queensland, Victoria and Vanuatu, a growth of more than 41 per cent from 2015. And volunteers are active and present supporting our local communities through our churches.

Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan attributes the growing involvement of volunteers to increasing community engagement and connecting people to people, resulting in tangible positive changes amongst those they are helping and themselves.

‘Our volunteers contribute a lot of their time, care and commitment, not only to the work of our organisation, but also to the community, bringing a brighter future for all’, Dean said. ‘It is through the expression of love that we are all enhanced.’

We deliver a diverse volunteer program in areas ranging from rural North Queensland, to metropolitan cities of Melbourne and Brisbane.

In this financial year, it is projected that more than 72,000 volunteer hours will be contributed to benefit our clients and residents, offering a labour replacement benefit in excess of $2.5million as a conservative estimate.

Group Manager Volunteer Services Jodie Mears accredits the increase of volunteer numbers to elements of diversification and futureproofing of the delivery of volunteer services.

‘The real value of our program is the social aspect our volunteers bring to our services, whether that is improved health and wellbeing, a valuable workplace experience, an opportunity to pay kindness forward or to gain a sense of belonging’, Jodie said.

‘Our focus for 2016 is less about numbers and hours of contribution and more about creating a positive impact through volunteer engagement and bringing meaning to the clients and vulnerable families we support.’

‘Our volunteers choose to join our program enjoy a contemporary volunteering framework where their goals, skills and motivations are the central consideration for matching them with opportunities that will inspire them and help them to find meaning in what they do’, she said.

National Volunteer Week is an annual celebration, acknowledging the substantial amount of time, energy and devotion made by volunteers.

A series of celebratory events were held in recognition of volunteers across each service area. Here is a glance at some of the celebrations that took place.


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Volunteers from Moonah Park

We have many volunteer opportunities currently available across Queensland, Victoria and Vanuatu. If you would like to learn more about becoming a volunteer with Churches of Christ in Queensland and to find our how you can help bring light to your community, go to imaginevolunteering.com.au, call 1300 760 622 or email [email protected]

WARRAWEE

Churches of Christ Care Warrawee Aged Care Service held a wine and cheese afternoon to celebrate their volunteers.

The small service in St George has 16 volunteers who graciously give their time to help the residents.

The five volunteers who attended the event were presented with gifts by the residents.

This year also marked 25 years of service for five of the volunteers, Marie Salmon, Blanche McNelley, June Robertson and Lesley Begg, who all started when the service opened.

Blanche and June were also volunteering before the service opened as they worked to raise money for the service to be built in their town.

As part of the celebrations, the volunteers and residents were entertained by the fabulous Slim Dusty act, a group of residents who sing along to all of his classics. One of the residents, Gordon, plays the role of Slim, playing a guitar made by the Men’s Shed.


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Gordon Phelps as Slim Dusty on his wooden guitar entertaining the volunteers.

Blanche McNelley, June Robertson, Pam Carson, Pam Moon and Cele Brosnan.

Lesley Begg is the President of the Friends of Warrawee, working tirelessly throughout the year to support the service with entertainment, assistance and gifts.

Marie Salmon helps with the respite area each Tuesday and Thursday,

Imagine volunteering with us.

Given the diversity of our services, chances are your skills will be perfect for one of our roles. So you’ll find your efforts as rewarding for yourself as it is for those you help.

imaginevolunteering.com.au

Imagine working for the love of it.


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ARCADIAArcadia Aged Care Service celebrated their volunteers with a special lunch attended by 25 volunteers.

Pictured is a group of volunteers who have been helping at the service for nine years, and who are affectionately known as ‘the harem’. The ladies help out with church services, and are greatly loved and appreciated around the service.

All the volunteers enjoyed the lovely lunch and show of appreciation for their commitment. ‘The Harem’ was celebrated for the ladies’ volunteering efforts.

OAK TOWERSOak Towers Aged Care Service celebrated their volunteers on Tuesday 10 May with an afternoon tea. Many of the volunteers also attended the worship service beforehand, where chaplain Stephen Petering made reference to the theme of service to others, specifically using the bible reference to Jesus washing the feet of his disciples (so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. John 13:4-5 NIV).

Volunteer Sister Clare is a Catholic Nun who began visiting at the former Betheden Aged Care Service many years ago, before coming to Oak Towers to continue her support of the residents who transferred over. Every Monday Sister Clare gives communion to those wanting to receive it and visits each room, making friends with staff and residents alike. Incredibly, Sister Clare is 94 years old.

A lovely afternoon tea was organised by the service and each volunteer was given a star made by the residents in art group with ‘You’re a star’ on it.

Sister Clare receives her gift for her many years serving the Oak Towers and Betheden communities.


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AROUND THE SITES

Volunteers who are taking part in the Active Volunteering in Dementia project at Toowoomba.

Lady Small Haven set the table for a fabulous volunteer lunch.

Gracehaven Bundaberg – From left to right Annett, activities staff; Rick, pastoral care leader; Marcelle, activities volunteer; and activities staff Therese and Kim.

Buckingham Gardens volunteers with their special cake for the occasion that read ‘thank you for your help’. Resident’s families helped on the day so the volunteers were the ones being waited on for a change.

Homesteads Aged Care Service volunteers Valmai Walters and Leandra Choh cut the cake.

Head Office volunteers with Jodie Mears, Group Manager Volunteer Services, and David Swain, Chief Operating Officer.

Fair Haven Maryborough celebrated National Volunteer Week with 45 of their amazing volunteers.

AViD (Active Volunteering in Dementia) staff and volunteers at our Toowoomba Aged Care Service.

Churches of Christ

Medical Santo

Donate todayYour donation makes such a huge difference to people in Vanuatu. Thank you.

Churches of Christ in Queensland Fundraising Office, PO Box 508, Kenmore Q 40691800 600 900 | [email protected]

Santo

Churches of Christ

Changing lives in Northern Vanuatu

Why we provide a medical service on Vanuatu• The average life expectancy

is 75 years, compared to 82 in Australia

• $152.71AUD per capita for national annual health expenditure, compared to $5,344.91AUD per capita in Australia (that’s over 35 times more per Australian!)

• Common ailments include tuberculosis, diabetes and malaria

• It is not uncommon for minor injuries to lead to major infections, long-term complications or even death.

The services we providePrimary health careGeneral practitioner service at the Medical Santo Clinic, with mobile clinics to rural and island communities. Coordinate visiting doctors, specialists and educators to provide services from our clinic, in rural and island communities and at the Northern District Hospital.

24/7 emergency medical service Supported by the local ambulance service, in the event of an emergency, we are available to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This service also extends to provision of land, sea, or air based retrieval or evacuation services.

General health outreachWe go where the need for health care is. Our skilled and qualified volunteers conduct rural health services for the people of Northern Vanuatu.

We have the ability to provide specialist mobile clinics anywhere they are needed.

Skills and infrastructure developmentWe partner with and support the Vanuatu Ministry of Health in developing skills and infrastructure and providing medical services across Northern Vanuatu. These services include ambulance service and paramedical skills development, and support with acquisition and maintenance of technical medical equipment.


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Churches of Christ Medical Santo has provides vital primary health services to the people of Northern Vanuatu.

With a population of fewer than 300,000 people, Vanuatu relies on income generated by agriculture and tourism. Its exposed coastline regularly bears the full force of cyclones and tidal events, decimating the basic structures the ni-Vanuatu people call home.

Delivering hope through health

Volunteers in actionWe coordinate medical volunteers to work, mentor, educate and provide health services and resources.

• 102 volunteers donated their time during 2015

• Assignments range from 2 weeks to 12 months

• Volunteers include doctors, medical specialists, nurses, paramedics, midwives and students.

Providing hope through healthDuring 2015, Medical Santo achieved the following outcomes for locals and visitors:

• 1,623 patients attended in-clinic

• 1,908 free rural health checks with extensive follow up treatment

• Involved in nine emergency evacuations of overseas visitors

• First response emergency medical care after Cyclone Pam, seeing around 1,000 patients across the archipelago

• Facilitated and supported (funded) the transport of one female patient to Australia for life saving heart surgery.


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Order your new Membership now! Purchase your Entertainment™ Book today at entertainmentbook.com.au/orderbooks/9m1849

Churches of Christ Medical Santo services does not receive government funding, with the service relying on donations from individuals and organisations to deliver its vital services.

You can support Medical Santo in providing health care to thousands of Northern Vanuatu people each year by making a donation today.

Go to medicalsanto.com phone 1800 600 900 or email [email protected]


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Whitehill Church of Christ is excited to be partnering with Pais Australia in 2016 in hosting missionally minded young people from around the world as they complete a gap year.

Commenting on Pais, Youth and Young Adult Worker Ben Kulp believes new programs aren’t needed to change the world, what is needed is a new type of person.

‘People who have been truly discipled, mentored and supported in their faith journey so they can go and do the same in others’, Ben said.

Pais is an international missionary organisation that sees the need for young people to be connected into the kingdom of God specifically through mentoring and school-based ministry. They achieve this by allowing international young adults to work as missionary youth workers for a year with a local church. They are sent from the church out into schools, communities and church

groups to form relationships with local young people through programs and mentoring to show them the kingdom of God. They are then able to guide these young people to Jesus and his church where they can continue to be discipled and cared for.

A team of five international young adults are being hosted at Whitehill Church of Christ: Texans Julia, 23 and Kassidy, 19; Gabriel, 21 of California; and Caleb, 28 and Grace, 26 from Uganda.

Whitehill is the second church in Australia to host a Pais team, with Springwood Church of Christ hosting a group in 2015. The current team arrived in April and completed three weeks of training with Tony Miller, from Pais Australia.

They will be hosted by families from the church, and will have a car to travel to and from the church, school and community groups each day.

The team will be involved mainly in youth ministry through one-on-one mentoring, assisting in program organisation and running school

Ready for a gap year ‘spreading the word down under’.

Young international missionaries enjoying a gap year with Whitehill

visits, after school programs, Sunday morning small groups for youth in Years 7-10, camps and retreats, as well as general help and support to Ben.

‘God is giving us as a church an opportunity to be part of a global movement that has the potential to change our city and our world. Whitehill is really excited to partner with Pais in 2016 and we are looking forward to having them as part of our church’, Ben said.

To find out more about Pais International visit: paismovement.com

Highlands EstateHighlands EstateMeringandan Toowoomba

Highlands EstateMeringandan Toowoomba

Meringandan Toowoomba


page 27

Caring for local kids for 20 years Twenty years ago, Withcott Church of Christ wanted to do something for their community.

They decided to see if there was a need for a child care centre in the area, so they conducted a survey of homes in Withcott, Helidon and Murphy’s Creek. There was an overwhelming response of ‘yes’.

After months of paperwork and with the backing by Churches of Christ Care and the Queensland Government, they had a building. They formed a committee, staff were employed and the centre was furnished. On Tuesday 26 March 1996 Churches of Christ Care Early Childhood Centre in Withcott opened with 15 children and four staff. Today, 20 staff care for 107 children.

The centre’s first director Juanetta Priest set up the centre’s open play-based program, which still continues today. This program is one of the reasons the centre has received ‘exceeding’ rating

in recent assessments. Current Service Manager Robyn Finch and her team strongly believe that children should have a voice and a choice in what they do throughout the day.

To celebrate their anniversary, the centre held a community Open Day, with over 150 past and present staff and families joining in the celebration. There was an art gallery showcasing the wonderfully talented children’s works, and the young and young-at-heart enjoyed face painting, jumping castle and a delicious morning tea of fresh scones and pikelets.

There were presentations to the first director and long-serving staff members, and all educators were acknowledged for their years of service and commitment.

Celebrating 20 wonderful years in Withcott: Lindy Doller with Program and Practice Consultant

Jenny Neal and Service Manager Robyn Finch.


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Singles mingle Did you know that more than one in three women and 20 per cent of men over the age of 65 live alone?

Retirement villages, such as our Sanctuary Park Retirement Community are the perfect place for those who live alone to remain active and social and to meet new, like-minded people.

Recently, single Sanctuary Park residents were invited to mingle at the special Singles Night event. They were treated to a wonderful meal of roast lamb and beef, wine and punch, and were entertainment by performer, Madeline Drinksalot, who gave a wonderful rendition of the Sound of Music. They danced the night away to music from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

Residents who were unable to attend were not forgotten, with a meal delivered to their door.

Sanctuary Park Retirement Community, in Nambour on the Sunshine Coast is one of our 20 retirement villages in Queensland (15) and Victoria (5). Our villages promote an independent lifestyle where residents can age-in-place with freedom, independence, privacy, dignity and security, without the worry of garden and house maintenance.

Running through the night to shine light on domestic violenceAt Churches of Christ in Queensland, we are committed to speaking out against domestic and family violence. We unfortunately see it in our work as well as all over the media and in our communities. Our Children, Youth and Families team has been aware for some time that our knowledge and understanding of the impacts of domestic and family violence needs to be strengthened. Many of the children and young people (and adults) we work with demonstrate behaviours that are the result of the significant trauma they have endured. For many, this includes violence at home.

In the previous edition of Networking you would have read about how we have partnered with CQUniversity to enable a better understanding of this blight on our communities by providing professional development for our staff. We are also exploring other opportunities to further our understanding and effectiveness in assisting families.

Over the night of 4 to 5 May the ‘Darkness to Daylight Challenge’ was held at South Bank Parklands, Brisbane.

A team of five of our staff members banded together to take part in the 110 kilometre run. Rachel Robinson, Luke Tempany, Brent Iverson, Toby Wilson and Dee Troy, spent the night taking turns to complete the marathon task.

Through our mission we aim to ‘bring the light of Christ into communities’. Likewise, the Darkness to Daylight Challenge aims to bring light to the staggeringly tragic incidence of domestic and family violence in our community. Every year in Australia, approximately 110 women, children and men die at the hands of a family member at home. The symbolic act marked one kilometre for each life lost, and to remember those left behind.

Watching the sun rise after a great joint effort: Toby Wilson,

Brent Iverson, Dee Troy, Luke Tempany, Rachel Robinson.

Getting ready for the long night:

Brent Iverson, Luke Tempany, Rachel

Robinson, Dee Troy and Toby Wilson.

Dinner, dancing and friends: residents have fun mingling at Sanctuary Park singles night.

The barren Longreach landscape, desperate for rain.


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The pastors decided to take a team of concerned praying people to Longreach over Easter to be with the local Longreach church family to talk with them, listen, worship and pray together: especially for rain.

A team of 32 people from Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba and Rockhampton churches made the journey to the outback town.

Matt French, Chief Executive Office of East Coast Haulage in Toowoomba, and one of his drivers, John Boshier, helped by organising bus hire from Toowoomba. John, an experienced coach driver and mechanic, volunteered to drive, with his wife Julie acting as navigator and record keeper.

The bus pulled out of Gatton at 5am on Good Friday for the 13-hour trip to Longreach. On Saturday morning, the team was joined by the group from Rockhampton and they met for worship, prayer and briefing.

They shared in the Easter Street Parade and Family Fun Day in town—giving out many hundreds of small gifts of sweets and treats, and chatted with locals.

In the afternoon, Longreach churches hosted a barbecue for the team and local church folk, and they joined in a large circle in the park and prayed together for the needs of the outback and its people.

The visitors wanted to meet as many of the local Christians as possible, so decided to attend all the church services over the weekend, including a Catholic church service on Saturday night, and taking part in an awe inspiring sunrise service at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame on Sunday.

Sunday lunch was shared with local pastors and church folk, filling the entire dining area at the Birdcage Hotel. It was a blessed opportunity of fellowship with locals, including a group who had travelled 190 kilometres from Winton to be with them.

After lunch, they shared a special prayer with the group and listened to their concerns.

On Easter Monday at 5am, they set off on the journey home, praising God for His blessings.

There is a strong feeling that this is not a one-off connection as they await the Lord’s direction.

Praying for rainLast November, Gatton Church of Christ Pastor Barry Benz and Gatton Christian Life Centre Pastor Rick Armour were praying over the effects of the prolonged drought in the outback—especially around the Longreach area. Reports were coming in of the severe stress on graziers, their families, and the town and church people.

Team meeting in Longreach, guitar in hand. Ready for the bus ride.

Global Mission PartnersCelebrating motherhood and maternal health

The Midwives Training School in Aweil, South Sudan, was established through COCOA in 2013 with 20 midwives (11 females and nine males). Global Mission Partners is excited to announce that three years later, 15 students have graduated.

Global Mission Partners’ Colin Scott and Brian Smyth travelled to South Sudan in November 2015 to be part of the graduation, interviewing some of the students on video and taking photos. Joseph, a male midwife, said that it was his first time attending medical school.

‘I had never attended any course concerning medical training’, Joseph said.

‘I’m happy to have done the course as it has changed my life and for me it is the beginning of the journey.’

Similarly Atong, a female midwife, has gained confidence and has found her life purpose since completing the course.

‘Now I have a name; I’m a midwife! I have my identification and my future is going to be good’, Atong said.

The United Nations reports that South Sudan has the worst maternal mortality rates in the world. In remote areas medical services are scarce and traditional midwives are the only support for the majority of women during pregnancy and childbirth.

The lack of professional knowledge and resources, and primitive birthing practices, leads to high infant and maternal mortality rates. The establishment of the midwives training school is an important project not only to the state, but to the country as well. Northern Bahr el Gazal state has the worst maternal mortality rate in the country and, until this midwifery school; it had only one qualified midwife.

Midwifery school for the students means they gain knowledge and skills and are able to provide these in their community, counties and other areas.

But with the new skills come new expectations with locals expect the graduates to practice midwifery to reduce the maternal and infant mortality rate.

The students were recruited from across the state so that now, employed by the Ministry of Health, they can return to the clinics and aid

posts to serve local women. While there are many challenges to face, Atong says that they try to educate and help our poor people to have knowledge and awareness of health.

‘We teach them how to keep themselves healthy and how to maintain their families to be healthy, and to also teach them family planning’, she said.

With the graduation of the midwives there is hope and celebration in the midst of challenging circumstances. Fifteen midwives are now practicing midwifery in areas where no professional midwives existed before, making a difference to many mothers and their newborn babies.

In 2012, Churches of Christ in Queensland ran an appeal to raise money for this vital midwife training school. Thank you to everyone who donated and help make this school a reality and to change the futures of mothers and babies in South Sudan.


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Colin Scott with midwife graduates.


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The staff at Warrawee Aged Care Service in St George wanted to do something special for their residents this Mother’s Day.

As a gift for the residents, Lifestyle Therapist Terri-Lee Mills arranged a glamorous photoshoot for the ladies.

‘This year we set out to something a little different. I had wanted to do a photoshoot with our residents for some time, but I wasn’t sure of the best way to do it. With Mother’s Day coming around, I decided that it would make a lovely gift for our residents’, Terri-Lee said.

‘The photoshoots took place on the two Fridays before Mother’s Day. With their hair and make-up done, a

volunteer took their photo in a lovely garden setting.

‘The days we picked were beautiful and the residents and staff had a wonderful time’, she said.

‘The residents felt so special and loved hearing the compliments from staff about how beautiful they looked, and the staff loved being involved in such as a meaningful activity.’

The photos were printed and presented at a Mother’s Day afternoon tea, which included entertainment by the local school choir, a performance by the Sunday school and a special song sung by a staff member especially for mothers.

Top to bottom: Val and Doreen pose with a precious little pooch; Resident Nell enjoyed getting done-up and having her photo taken; and Marie looking marvellous.

An hour down the road from St George is the small town of Thallon, with a population of just 382 people.

St George to Thallon to make a mark

Service Manager Julie Bryant makes her mark to help a small town buy

a vital piece of equipment.

After the event, they made their way home, and stopped into the Campdraft being held in St George. Campdrafting is a unique Australian sport involving a horse and rider working cattle. It was a wonderful day celebrating the rural culture of St George and surrounds.

Churches of Christ Care has a strong commitment to the St George community, with Warrawee Residential Aged Care Service, the Healthy Ageing Program, St George Early Childhood Centre, Family Day Care and Mobile Children’s Service providing quality care and support to the local community.

A group of 10 residents and four staff from St George’s Warrawee Aged Care Service climbed into a small bus and a ute one Saturday and made the trip to the town just north of the New South Wales border to join in helping raise money for a vital new defibrillator for the local community.

The town held a branding event, with the community asked to bring along their branding irons used on cattle, and wool stencils, so they could make their mark on a board, which is now hung in the local hotel.

Many of Warrawee’s residents are from farming backgrounds, and were excited about the event and inquisitive about why they needed to bring their branding irons. Service Manager Julie Bryant (pictured) used her irons to add her mark to the board.

A Mother’s Day giftOn Mother’s Day we all want to make our mums feel extra special as a way to thank them for the wonderful gifts they have given us in life.


page 32 Clockwise: Enjoying morning tea in the shed;

Shedder Bill; and Shedder Tom.

Mark Wall received a lifelong membership to the shed he helped establish in Nambour.

Nambour Men’s Shed From humble beginnings at Sanctuary Park Church of Christ, the Nambour Men’s Shed has grown over the past number of years to become a thriving community activity.

After being supported by Churches of Christ in Queensland for four years, the shed has grown and matured and is now its own self-governing association.

It is a great outcome for the shed, which we have supported for four years, to now see it become ‘owned’ by the community.

One of the founding members, Community Chaplain Mark Wall, was presented with a lifetime membership at a celebration morning tea recently.

At the celebration, Shed President Ian Ellis reflected on how Churches of Christ in Queensland had supported the Nambour Men’s Shed through times of trial, tribulation and moving from site to site, to finally having a home at their new premises. Mission Action Partner Kevin Hamer and Senior Pastor Tim McMenamin were on hand to formally bless the shed as it transitions back to a community shed—a great outcome for all.

Nubeena Men’s Shed celebrates one year‘We express to our (Nubeena Retirement) village staff, our Kenmore staff and to our God that we now have an effective Men’s Shed and we are very grateful’, Bruce Armstrong, Nubeena Retirement Village resident and Men’s Shed member said in recognition of the first anniversary of the shed.

Over the past year, the shed has grown and established itself as a mainstay of life at the Toowoomba retirement village, with Bruce highlighting some of the activities the shed offers.

‘We have Shed Input, where we have a guest speaker once a month. We have Shed Encounter twice a month, where we bring four or five men from our adjoining aged care service to the shed to share coffee, Tim Tams, conversations and stories’, Bruce said.

‘We also have Shed Worship on the fourth Wednesday of each month, where we close the shed that day and go to the regular communion and message in the village lounge.’

In the past year, the men have also built relationships with men’s background talks.

As the shed enters its second year, shed members hope to take the offerings even further.

‘In the second year we will make things with our machines and tools to sell or give the creations away’, Bruce said.


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This is a shout out to all those people who have that little voice in their head saying ‘what about doing some ministry or theological study next year’!

If that’s you, or someone you know, then I really encourage you to follow it up… sooner rather than later! You could start by simply giving me a call on 0423 835 374 to begin a conversation and I will help you think through the options and get things moving.

Make sure you also explore the Australian College of Ministries (ACOM) website acom.edu.au too. It’s full of great information that will help you work things through.

Studying with ACOM is mainly online, with regular multi-day ‘facilitation’s’ or workshops, for those wanting to take advantage of them. All of our courses are Australian accredited and most are eligible for government fee help.

Keep in mind that ministry and theological study is essentially about serving—serving God and serving people as part of His mission in the corner of the world that you have been placed in. It’s not necessarily about going down the track of becoming a pastor or chaplain or something professional… though it could be!

At its heart, it’s about sharpening yourself—your thinking, understanding, perspectives and skills—for service. It is part of the transforming work of God in the lives of people and communities where God has placed us, where we work, live and participate.

Queensland currently has a great group of students studying a range of subjects at ACOM studying certificate level through to degree and postgraduate levels. You could be one of them, so please pick up the phone and give me a call. I’m here to serve you!

Oh, and a quick note to pastors and leaders… have you thought about the idea of a partnership between your church/agency with ACOM, and a potential cohort with tailored content? Now is the time to be thinking about this for 2017. Please give me a call to talk more!

Clayton Fergie ACOM Queensland Learning Support Manager 0423 835 374 or [email protected]

Thinking about studying in 2017?

Clayton Fergie is here to help you!

1 in 20 residential aged care residents assessed as

needing palliative care•••

Approximately 70 per cent of people want to die at home

Community basedpalliative care options needed


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While marking National Palliative Care Week (22 to 28 May), Churches of Christ Care reaffirmed its stance on palliative care, particularly the need for care options in people’s own homes.

As a leading not-for-profit provider of aged care, we have called on the federal government to investigate increasing the provision of community-based palliative care packages to support people’s choices around receiving care.

Director of Seniors and Supported Living Bryan Mason recommended any changes to the funding model for community-based palliative care are implemented alongside support for providers to take a palliative approach.

The healing order of

JACOB’S WELL(Aust) presents

‘Christ the Healer’St. Andrew’s Uniting Church Cnr Creek & Ann St. Brisbane

Christ the Healer in the Cross & the Kingdom. Teaching the Cross & Kingdom Walking Pt. 1&2

Free: Christ the Healther service of workship

Event Leader Mrs Angela Mann OJW - UKElder of Presteigne Well,Trustee of The OJW UK,leader of ‘in His Footsteps’ courses & a founding member since 1998.

Christ the Healer in the Cross & The Kingdom $20

Teaching the Cross & Kingdom Walking Pt. 1 & 2 $30

Friday & Saturday Combined $40

Direct payment to The Order of Jacob’s Well Aust. BSB: 105-010 Acct: 120-325-440

Please provide Name, State and contact details via email.

REGISTER via the ‘EVENTS’ page at www.au-jacobwell.org

Contact email: [email protected]

Fri 1 July 7.30am-9.30pm Sat 2 July 9am - 5pm • Sun 3 July 7pm

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‘Palliative care is an issue that needs to be faced now, particularly with an aging population’, Bryan said.

‘Of particular focus should be providing quality end of life options for those in rural and remote communities. Our goal is to enable people to die with dignity, in a setting of their choice.’

‘Around 70 per cent of people want to die at home, and as we work towards choice, we must consider the added pressure this puts on informal care provided by family and friends. Through a palliative approach we are able to identify when carers are experiencing distress and provide additional support.’

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, five percent of permanent residential aged care residents were assessed as needing palliative care. This equates to 11,629 of about 231,700 residents (2013–14) nationally indicating a need for this care.

As a leading provider of community and residential aged care, Churches of Christ Care is continuing its palliative approach as a model of care, increasing dignity and choice for people at the end of life.

‘We view spiritual care as being as important as physical care, and even more so at the end of life’, he said.

‘We can’t shy away from people as they contemplate the big questions at the end of life. What has my life meant? Have I made a difference? And what happens next?’

‘A palliative approach doesn’t start in the last days or weeks of somebody’s life. It begins when people first come into care. By having a conversation early, it means we know and respect their individual care choices at end of life.’

This approach means there is more open, informative and meaningful communication and conversations with clients, residents, their families, medical practitioners and care workers.

The Palliative Approach position statement can be viewed at cofc.com.au

for study towards a career in the caring profession

Beryl Wiltshire AM was a highly respected leader in welfare and community work in Australia especially during her long and distinguished career with Churches of Christ Care. She was also Queensland Mother of the Year and received the Order of Australia for service in the field of social welfare on Australia Day 1996.

She was a friend, counsellor, and mentor, to any who were in need and sought her help and advice. Beryl had a particular talent for identifying the potential in people and quietly assisted many with funding for their education and training to get them started in their career. This scholarship continues the tradition she established and is designed to meet the tuition and associated costs of a person or persons who wish to embark on a career of service within the social, welfare, human services, and caring sector.

An annual sum of $5,000 is available to fund one or more scholarships for study towards a qualification at any educational or training organisation which may lead to a career in the caring profession. The scholarship is open to persons of all ages and there are no conditions for candidacy.

Candidates should outline the nature of the career they wish to pursue, their motivation for undertaking study towards the relevant qualification, the course they wish to undertake towards this career, and give details of the likely annual tuition and associated costs (fees, books, equipment etc).

Preference will be given to applicants who do not have access to study assistance programs in their employer organisations.

Please prepare an application including the following:(attach full details)NameAddressPhoneReason for applying for this scholarship including personal goalsCareer being contemplatedReasons for choosing this careerEducation/Training course to be undertaken including name of course and qualification and institution for study e.g. training organization, college, universityDuration of courseAnnual costs to be funded including tuition fees and associated costsNames and contact details of two referees

Please send completed application form, by 30 September 2015 to:Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship

30 Gregory St. Clayfield Qld. 4011Further enquiries: 0418 713 593

Beryl WiltshireScholarship

Please send completed application form, by 30 September 2016 to:

Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship 30 Gregory St. Clayfield Qld. 4011

Further enquiries: 0418 713 593

History, once forgotten, is hard to reclaimWe seek your help in gathering our collective memories and history.

We can tend to think of history in the form of large-scale events. However, the history of Churches of Christ is made up of the stories, recollections, testimonies and events that were important to individuals attending our churches, sitting on our committees, individuals working in or being cared for in our services and bringing the light of Christ to people in many and varied ways. In short, that means your memories, your stories and those of your church members are important as we seek to bring an updated version of our history publication ‘The Church from the Paddock’ to life.

We’d also like you to help answer the below questions about your church:

• How did your church or group commence?

• What are the key dates? (Opening, first service etc.)

• Who was involved?

• Is there a story behind the origins?

• What significant changes have occurred in the years since?

• What is the legacy of the ministry?

• What is the current state of the ministry and plans for the future?

If you are able to answer any or all of these questions, please email the details to [email protected]. Additionally, if there are documents, photos or records that answer these questions, we would love to see them.

If you have documentation from the past, could you please send it in to our Historical Resource Centre so that future generations can benefit from your experience and the lessons you learned. These can be sent to the following address:

• Historical Resource Centre Churches of Christ Campus Mitchelton Community Centre, Lower Ground 28 Blaker Road, Mitchelton Qld 4053

You can also email your documents to [email protected] or contact us on 07 3327 1620.

Remember – your story is important, and it may well be a vital piece that helps us understand the history of Churches of Christ in a better way.

We appreciate your help in this important historical collection activity.


page 36


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In celebration of Queensland Seniors Week coming up in August and the Victorian Seniors Festival in October, here are some ways that you can age not only with grace, but with health and wellbeing. Let us lay some statistics on you: today, the average life expectancy is 82.1 years (80.1 for males, 84.3 for females).

In 2014, 15 per cent of the population were aged over 65, and by 2054 this is projected to increase to 21 per cent. By 2032, the number of people aged over 85 is expected to double.

In 2013-14, 40 per cent of hospital admissions were for people aged 65 and older (13 per cent of population).

With an ageing population comes increased health care and aged care costs, something past, current and future governments are trying to tackle and plan for, with no easy solution.

With statistics like these, it is becoming more and more important that we take it on ourselves as individuals to ensure that we take care of our health and wellbeing as we age.

Healthy ageing and wellbeing

Here are some tips we have gathered to remain active, healthy and well.Physical activity• 30 minutes of exercise a day.• Include a variety of exercise.• Physical activity is good for your body and mind.Smoking and alcohol use• Quit smoking.• Drink alcohol wisely – drink within

recommended levels, or don’t drink at all.Weight• Ensure your weight is within the healthy

range for your height. • Eat a healthy balanced diet.Diet• Aim to eat three meals a day.• Ensure your diet meets the guidelines of healthy

eating, including predominately vegetables.Chronic conditions and medical care• Learn all you can about your chronic condition –

what helps and what makes it worse.• Understand what medication you take, and the

side effects.• Have a general check up every year; early

detection of problems improves outcomes.Sleep • Your body needs to sleep to repair any cell

damage and to refresh your immune system. A good night’s sleep (generally eight hours) helps your concentration and your memory function.

• Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol or caffeine before bedtime, avoid too much daytime napping, have regular sleep hours and a routine, and keep active during the day. Exposure to sunlight (at least two hours a day) helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

Stimulating your mind• Keep your mind active by learning a new

skill or taking up a new hobby. – Do short courses, read, write, do crosswords

puzzles, and learn to play a musical instrument or a foreign language.

• Keeping physically and socially active also helps. Social connection and productive engagement• Do things that make you happy.• Take time to develop and nurture your

relationships with family and friends.• Group activities and volunteering also give

you an opportunity to meet new people.Optimism and adaption • It is important to have something to look

forward to each day, no matter how big or small.• Keep a positive attitude and an open mind

to opportunities that come your way.• Plan your retirement, including what you

do to keep mentally and physically active.

We will be celebrating Queensland Seniors Week from 13-21 August. There will be a range of activities taking place across our services. For more information about Queensland Seniors Week, go to cotaqld.org.au and for information on the Victorian Seniors Festival, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au


Nominations now openYou are encouraged to take the time to nominate individuals, teams or projects that you think have modelled our values in their everyday lives. You will need to give examples that demonstrate their ‘excellence in service’ and how they bring the light of Christ into their workplace or community. Nominations are open to all church members, volunteers and employees. This year, we will only be accepting nominations through the online form at cofc.com.au/nominate.

CEO Excellence in Service Awards head to the regions!This year we are planning to acknowledge our winners in local areas with the CEO and/or Council or Board member personally presenting them with their award at a local event with their colleagues, family and friends invited to attend.Churches and services in the local area are able to hold special personalised celebrations either as a standalone or combined local event.We will announce the winners in October to allow the time required to plan and implement each local celebration. Service managers and church leaders will be supported to arrange these special events. These awards are important and they us an individual voice to acknowledge our amazing colleagues in mission who are making a real difference.

CEO Excellence in Service Award

Nominations close 26 August 2016


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important dates06 : JUNE6 Queensland Day13 Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday (Vic)

07 : JULY3-10 NAIDOC Week23 Women’s Conference30 Vanuatu Independence Day

08 : AUGUST12 International Youth Day13-21 Seniors Week (Qld)19 World Humanitarian Day24-25 Fresh Horizons Conference Brisbane27 Fresh Horizons Conference Cairns

09 : SEPTEMBERDementia Awareness Month4 Father’s Day4-10 Child Protection Week8 RUOK? Day21 International Day of Peace21 World Alzheimer’s Day 30 Sep- L10 Young Adults Conference 2 Oct

10 : OCTOBERVictorian Seniors Festival 3 Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday (Qld)9-15 Mental Health Week

11 : NOVEMBER10 Celebrate 2016 – Centrifuge and AGM 11 Remembrance Day25 White Ribbon Day29 Vanuatu Unity Day

12 : DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day26 Boxing Day

01 : JANUARY 201716-20 FUSE Camp


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