MIA MIA SPRING 2017/ 1€¦ · Our vision is of a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships. Aim & Purpose: ... Answering Children’s

www.muaustralia.org MIA MIA SPRING 2017/ 1

2/SPRING 2017 MIA MIA www.muaustralia.org

CONTENTS Winter 2017

Mia MiaA quarterly magazine of

Anglican Mothers Union Australia.MIA MIA is an aboriginal word for

‘home’ and also stands for Mothers in Australia.

Mia Mia Editor: Susan Skowronski45 Panorama Drive

Glenvale, Toowoomba Qld 4350Ph: 0746334878

[email protected]

Printed by:

Openbook Howden Design & Print2-12 Paul Street. St Marys SA 5042

Websites - Australia : www.muaustralia.org.au

UK : www.themothersunion.org

Mia Mia Vol 101 No 3 ISSN 1326-7701

AnglicAn Mothers Union AUstrAliA

Vision: Our vision is of a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships.

Aim & Purpose:

To demonstrate the Christian faith in action by the transformation of communities worldwide through the nurture of family in its many forms.

Objectives:1. To promote and support married life2. To encourage parents in their role

to develop the faith of their children3. To maintain a worldwide fellowship of

Christians united in prayer, worship and service

4. To promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the protection of children

5. To help those whose family life has met with adversity

from MU Australia Handbook Dec 2009

Cover: A design by Carmel Rowley

Anglican Mothers Union

Australia

PresidentRev’d Anne Kennedy29 Abercromby RoadBLACKBURN SOUTH

VIC [email protected]

SecretaryMrs Marilyn Robey

8 Darwin DriveBATHURST NSW 2795

[email protected] Treasurer

Mrs Kath Glew521 Pleystowe School RdWALKERSTON Qld 4751

[email protected]

Have your say in

Mia MiaSuggestions, comments, contributions and insights

are welcome.

Please send all correspondence to the

editor.

Publication in Mia Mia is at the editor’s discretion.

Deadline for next issue 30 Sept 2017

Theme: Inspiration

(c) Copyright:No part of this

publication may be reproduced without

permission.

Greetings from Worldwide

President Lynne Tembey 3

From the President’s Desk -

Anne Kennedy 4

Royal Charter -

Libbie Crossman 5

Beware! - Christine Brain 6

Grandparenting -Robin Ray 7

Winning Homes for Christ -

Jan Livingstone 8

Springtime - Elizabeth Harris 9

Finding Faith Hope & Love-

Lesley McLean 10

The True Vine -

Sue Woodcock 11

Faith Hope Love - Denise Lay12

Buspa’s Corner 13

Thanksgiving in the Dry Tropics-

Deanne Bray 14

Special Award 15

Members News 16-19

Church in the Park 20

Overseas Project 21

To Flutter or not to Flutter -

Christine Jensen 22

Visitors from Kenya 23

Archbishop Welby pays Tribute 24

Singing Kites 25

MU Logos through the years 25Notes on thought-full parenting 26

Response to tragic fire 27

Answering Children’s Questions -

Janne Whitehead 28

Comtemplatiin Psalm 51 29

Pause for Poetry 30

Recipes 31

From the Editor 31

New from Publications 32



Faith, hope, Love

One hundred and twenty years Of MOthers’ uniOn in australia! what an aMazing stOry! as each diOcese lOOks back Over their Own histOry, the wOrk Of wOMen acrOss this land has quietly and steadily encOuraged, suppOrted, and strengthened Marriage and faMily life fOr a very lOng tiMe.

Mary Sumner, our Founder, as a new mum, had a vision of a support network for others in her position. It took years before this vision became reality - years of prayer, years of working out how this would best help those who needed it most.

On a grazing property named Cullenswood in north-eastern Tasmania that vision became a reality for the women of Australia. In 1847 local squire Mr Robert Legge funded the building of a small church for the property’s workers. The local rector’s wife, Mrs Sarah L’Oste, in direct contact with Mary Sumner, gathered a group of women and formed the first branch of MU. It’s possible that meetings were held as early as 1890, but the first official meeting was recorded in 1892, held in the school room on the veranda of the parsonage. A precious banner still hangs in nearby Holy Trinity Church, St Mary’s, as a reminder of our small beginnings, and a memorial plaque at Christ Church, Cullenswood recalls the Centenary of MU Australia in 1992.

Faith, hope, and love have been part of Mothers’ Union from its inception.

The faith that grounds us and all we do – our Baptismal promises, Bible study, planning and surrounding our work with prayer and worshipping

together in the name of Jesus Christ.

In hope we have worked to make the world a better place for women and families – personal contact has created lasting relationships, community involvement has given us the opportunity to reach out to others

in God’s love, and our international network has given us a global view of the needs of the world.

All that work is based in love – love for God the Trinity, love for our MU sisters in Christ throughout the world, and love for all of creation of which we have all been a collective part.

That’s what keeps us going – through droughts, floods, bushfires and other tragedies – Australian MU members have supported families in their toughest times through their faith in God, through the hope that distinguishes us as followers of Jesus Christ, and through the vision of a world where God’s love is shown through of loving, respectful and flourishing relationships.

We give thanks to God for the opportunity to serve through Mothers’ Union for 125 years, and look to a future that continues to carry forward the vision of Mary Sumner.

Rev’d Anne Kennedy


A royAl chArter is A wAy of incorporAting A body, thAt is tUrning it froM A collection of individUAls into A single legAl entity.At present there are in excess of 900 Chartered bodies. A body incorporated by Royal Charter has all the powers of a natural person. Royal Charters were at one time the only means of incorporating a body, but there are now other means (becoming a registered company, for example), so the grant of new Charters is comparatively rare. New grants of Royal Charters are these days reserved for eminent professional bodies or charities which have a solid record of achievement and are financially sound. For charities and professional bodies, incorporation by Charter should be in the public interest.

Once incorporated by Royal Charter a body surrenders significant aspects of the control of its internal affairs to the Privy Council. Amendments to Charters can be made only with the agreement of The Queen in Council, and amendments to the body’s by-laws require the approval of the Council (though not normally of Her Majesty). This effectively means a significant degree of Government regulation of the affairs of the body, and the Privy Council will therefore wish to be satisfied that such regulation accords with public policy.

Mothers’ Union received its first Royal Charter in 1926 as the organisation had spread worldwide and it was felt that this would unite in a very visible way membership throughout the empire.

As the 1970s and the centenary of The Mothers’ Union approached and after the dramatic changes is society that occurred during the 1960s, it was felt that the charted no longer reflected what The Mothers’ Union had become and a new charter was sought.

Now we are in a new century, and as Mothers Union moves towards its sesquicentenary the Trustee Board is again looking at its present charter to see if it fully reflects our present situation and look at where we may be going in the future. Almost all provincial structures are affiliates, each with separate constitutions, and the umbrella of a Royal Charter, what it says and what it means provides us, as it always has done, as one united body under God.

A brief history of our

Royal Charter

Rev’d Canon Libbie Crossman


Once upOn a tiMe, a very lOng tiMe agO nOw, there lived a little girl called Jane. Jane lived in a little white hOuse, at the end Of a street Of Other little white hOuses.

She lived in the little white house with her mother, her father, her sister and a little white kitten. Jane’s parents worked hard to teach Jane how to be a Good Polite Little Girl. ‘Please, may I have some ice-cream?’, ‘I’m sorry to have hurt you’, and above all, ‘Thank you for having me to tea’ they reminded Jane. Over and over again Jane practised being a Good Polite Little Girl, until, at last, she didn’t need reminding any more. ‘Thank you for my birthday present’ Jane wrote to Aunt Penny. ‘Thank you, for sharing your new doll with me’ Jane said to her friend Susan. ‘Thank you, Mummy, for my dinner’ she said to her mother. She became so good at being thankful that her family began to call her, not just plain Jane, but, Little Miss Thankful.

Time passed, and Jane grew up. She left her parents’ little white house and married handsome Big Bob. Jane and Big Bob lived in a not-so-little house in the middle of a street of not-so-little houses, each with its own pretty garden in the front and room for children to play at the back. Bob and Jane each had their own shiny car and the garage was filled with tennis racquets, fishing gear, bicycles and even several lawn mowers and barbecues.

One fateful day a stranger came knocking at Jane’s door. ‘Good morning, Jane. My name is Dissatisfaction. I’ve come to show you how much better your neighbour’s house really is.’ Jane looked around her own home. Yes, it did look a bit shabby. And the curtains were definitely out of date. And that bedroom suite-she had never really liked it! When Big Bob came home, Jane pointed these things out to him-often.

Several days later, there came another knock at Jane’s door. ‘Good morning Jane. I’m Dissatisfaction’s twin sister. My name is Disappointment. Can I come in and have a cup of tea with you. I’d like to sit down with you and spend some time reminding you of all the things you’ve missed out on in your life-a Bigger House with Better Stuff, an exciting career, trips overseas, a really handsome husband… and there’s more I could show you if we have the time.’

It wasn’t long before Dissatisfaction and Disappointment became Jane’s best friends. Together they helped her see how bad her life really was. Jane forgot the lessons she had learnt in the Little White House. Nothing pleased her and her life took a rapid slide down, down, down until she felt nothing but despair.

One dreary day, Jane chanced upon a book, left lying on the coffee table. Idly she took it up. ‘Give thanks in all circumstances’ she read. What a load of tripe! How could anyone, especially someone with her dreary, disappointing life, do that? Suddenly the doorbell rang. Jane dragged herself to open it. Before her stood a smiling woman, holding a basket of beautiful flowers. ‘Good morning Jane. My name is Thankful. I’ve come to warn you about two sneaky thieves who have been at work in this area. Can I come in?’

Together the two women sat down with a pot of tea, and Thankful began to share her lovely flowers with Jane. ‘This one is to remind you how much Big Bob loves you. And this one is to remind you that you have enough to eat each day. And this one is to remind you that you have a loving Friend, Jesus Christ, who has promised never to leave you or forsake you.’ Gradually Jane began to join Thankful and before long the basket lay empty and it was Jane’s home which was filled with the fragrance and beauty of Thankfulness’s flowers.

Nowadays Jane has once again become Little (or rather, Grown Up) Miss Thankful. She’s learnt her lesson- no longer does she allow Dissatisfaction and Disappointment to steal her joy. She’s learnt that the secret of a happy life lies not in what she has, nor in her circumstances, but in remembering that she has a Friend in Jesus, who loves her and will never leave her. And so she is able to give thanks in all circumstances.

Christine Brain


I am writing this article during the last week of our preparation to travel to USA to spend a few precious weeks with our daughter and her family. Anticipating time with our grandsons brings to mind our AMUA objective and the role we can play in supporting parents to bring up children in the faith and life of the church. Most of the time our children were growing up, we lived a long way from our children’s grandparents. We were always grateful for the local proxy grandparents that helped to nurture our children in the faith. Grandchildren and the children and grandchildren of our relatives and friends can bring love, joy and blessings to our lives.

As grandparents, we have a special relationship with our grandchildren that provides opportunities to role model and share God’s love for us.

We don’t have to have a theological or teaching degree, we only need to live out our faith. Children watch what we do and listen to what we say – they are learning from us continually. I am sure you have heard children use words sometimes out of context, but clearly words or expressions they have heard from adults around them. Quite some years ago when our eldest grandson was about two years old, he was sitting on the floor at our home, playing with blocks. As my husband said goodbye on his way to work, Ryan stood up and made the sign of the cross in blessing just as he had seen his grandfather do on several occasions. No one prompted the action, Ryan just decided to do this to send his grandfather off with God’s blessing.

Giving children your undivided attention while reading to them is a great bonding activity and an opportunity for you to share God’s word and his love. There are plenty of good children’s bible story resources we can share with our grandchildren. Praying with our grandchildren particularly at mealtime and the end of the day provides another opportunity to share the faith as well as developing lifelong habits in young children. As children grow through the primary school years, the hand of prayer is a useful strategy to help children frame their prayers. The thumb is for praising God, the pointer finger for giving thanks, the long finger is for saying sorry, the ring finger prompts us to pray for other people and the little finger to pray for ourselves.

Bringing our grandchildren to church with us should be more that supplying activities and food to keep them occupied, it’s about incorporating them in the actions of worship rather than just leaving them to play in the corner. While play is important and children should feel at home in a church service, taking time to introduce them to quite for pray, saying Amen, progressing to learning the Lord’s Prayer and joining in the singing are all ways we can teach the faith.

As AMUA members in this anniversary year it is important that we reflect on how we live our five objectives and the influence we can have through sharing our faith and hope in Christ with love.


I wonder if, like me, you have tried to encourage people in your church to become members of The Mothers’ Union. As I look back at my time as a member over fifty years it seems to me it has always been quite an effort to enthuse people. We have a Purpose and an Aim and Five Objects. Preceding all of that there is the vision of Mary Sumner, our founder, to win the homes of the nation for Christ. It is already starting to sound complicated but the model of membership most of us see is a monthly meeting involving worship, learning from the Bible to grow in our understanding, and serving. All of that takes commitment and many people hesitate right there. Over the years I’ve learned a reminder or invitation in the notice sheet at church isn’t enough. The personal invitation, explanation, persuasion and come with me route is more effective. It takes prayer and effort.

In 2003 Beverley Ovens became a member of The Mothers’ Union Executive in Sydney Diocese. She took up the position of Overseas and Northern Outreach Coordinator and five years later became the Overseas and Northern Outreach Coordinator on the Australian Committee. Bev saw an opportunity to meet with Sudanese women at Merrylands Anglican Church where Monica Biel was helping as a Sudanese Community worker employed by Anglicare. Monica introduced Bev to the women and so began the development of Sudanese members in the Diocese of Sydney.

It has been a long slow process requiring perseverance. Fortunately Bev had experience with cross cultural ministry having been a missionary in Tanzania in the 1970s. Bev’s first step was to establish

a genuine friendship with Monica. She did this by frequently visiting Monica at her home often accompanied by Jess, Bev’s mother. In 2005 four ONO Days were organised across Sydney Diocese and Monica Biel was the main speaker, sharing with members her work with Sudanese women and families.

In 2006 Bev and Monica talked about how Sudanese Mothers’ Union members could be more involved with MU in Sydney Diocese. In 2007 when Christine Jensen became our Sydney President Beverley asked for permission to start a Sudanese Branch at the Anglican Church in Merrylands. Christine questioned Bev about why this was important. The answer Bev gave was “When I face God I don’t want Him to ask me why I didn’t help Sudanese women in their Christian lives.”

Monica and Beverley prayed together regularly particularly asking God to show them who would make the best leader from the women they knew. The Lord made clear to them that Elizabeth Lual was that person. Christine and Beverley met with Elizabeth in her home and other Sudanese women joined them. The new branch began on the first Saturday of the month and 15 women travelled to Merrylands to

become the first branch.

At first Beverley did the Bible teaching and she was joined by Suzanne Reimer, a skilled ESL teacher, who has been able to write and teach Bible lessons suitable for the group. The group consolidated and grew. In 2012 Elizabeth thought that it was time to commence two more branches. MU Sydney Blacktown Branch


The next branch was commenced in Belmore on the second Saturday of the month with Mrs Angelina leading, Bev teaching and Helen Cooney assisting. Elizabeth’s vision for a third branch was realised with the commencement of Blacktown in 2014 on the third Saturday of the month with Christine Jensen teaching with Bev and Martha Arok as leader. Many of the Sudanese community now live in the Oakhurst area so the Merrylands group moved to the Anglican Church in Oakhurst.

As you can imagine these branches meeting on three Saturdays of the month are a huge commitment for all concerned yet wonderfully vibrant and rewarding. The women pray and sing together. Everyone participates for about an hour and a half and then the Bible is taught followed by lunch. The teaching and the whole program is well thought out and cultural sensitivities are supported especially as many have had little opportunity for formal education. Many of these members have faced terrible suffering personally and are now concerned for their extended families in South Sudan where war and atrocities continue.

In 2016 there was a wonderful celebration; more than ten years had passed since the very first seminar for Sudanese members was held at Blacktown. The Auditorium was full with enthusiastic Sudanese members singing, praying, learning and praising the Lord for their fellowship in Christ. Already the Seminar for this year is being planned and advertised. My understanding is that our Sudanese members can’t wait.

I was convinced to write this article because frequently, speaking for myself, we don’t persevere. We ask people to join us but retreat if there is little enthusiasm. However, I’m sure we all want people to have the opportunity to grow in their faith and, if they don’t understand, to hear the gospel clearly. My hope is that the persistence and enormous effort of Beverley, her team and the Sudanese members will inspire you as much as it has inspired me.

MU Sydney Sudanese Branch

springtime in the mid-north of south australia is a season of green and gold.

As far as the eye can see there are paddocks of golden canola and green grain. It makes me feel as though I would like to get out of my car and walk through them. Spring brings anticipation of flowers blooming, the promise of longer days and the reward of warmer weather soon! 0ur faith in creation is renewed along with the buds on the trees and the sprouting of bulbs in the garden.

Every spring I am reminded that new life will follow seasons of challenge, uncertainty and disappointment. We are called to do our best and then to trust in the power of Creation to bring forth the increase. Spring reminds me to be hopeful, to be optimistic and to have confidence. For me, this is a time I feel refreshed and renewed.

God’s presence gives us faith to know that tomorrow will be a better day than today, hope for the future of our planet and love for one another.

Elizabeth HarrisMU Diocese ofWillochra


An invitation came by email – spend three days on our property in western New South Wales and see what we do to help conserve native animal species. A drive from Adelaide via Wentworth-on-Murray and then halfway up the Silver City Highway and with a left hand turn onto rough dirt roads brought me and my two friends to Scotia.

Anything more unlike Scotland you have not seen. We were in red land, inhabited by humans dressed in khaki, who drove utes and appeared very friendly. Their focus, I was to discover, was single-minded care of endangered Australian animals which was done by providing a cat and fox free reserve and scientific monitoring of the site’s programs. We were there to learn and see; what impressed me was the scientists’ and animal managers’ passionate desire to share their concern and their expertise.

I can say that I already had an appreciation of God’s creation. The first chapter of Genesis, which so richly describes God as creator, has been reiterated for me by many experiences of the connection of human beings with the natural world. Faith in God as creator

awoke first in the Sunday School me at Matins/Morning Prayer. We chanted the Canticle, ‘All the works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord’. I am writing this as severe winds and floods are forecast and I read ‘O ye Lightnings and Clouds, ye Winds of God, ye Seas and Floods, Bless ye the Lord.’ This canticle was adapted from St Francis of Assisi’s Canticle in which he sings of Brother Sun and Sister Moon.

The Australian songwriter, Robin Mann, brings together the Australian Bush and the biblical faith of Genesis 1:

At the dawn of the ages You pulled land from the sea With Your word You invented All we know all we see Creek and desert and forest Red and grey kangaroo You were in this place but we never knew.

The last line is Jacob’s; lost, deceitful, on the run, fearing for his life. After sleeping the night, a stone for his pillow, and dreaming, he says, ‘You were in this place and I never knew’. Jacob awoke to the reiteration of God’s promise: he would inherit the holy royalty of his ancestors Abraham and Isaac. He was given Hope.

At Scotia my friends and I enjoyed hospitality and the company of others who had come to see and learn. We saw small animals living in the wild, whose ancestors had been decimated and scattered to the ends of the Australian off-shore islands. We saw land regenerated by their unique adaptation to soil and plants. Just a few metres of scrub revealed the indentations where bilbies had dug hunting for insects.

FINDING FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE

Lesley McLean


These small holes serve to turn over the soil, to break it open for the rain to fill, for leaves, casuarina needles to form tiny pockets of compost, each a

potential birthing place for a tree or shrub. We saw hope spring eternal in each digging, each great nest of the mallee fowl; in the cycle of animal, plant, land and human connection. Hope was vibrant as the Scotia staff gave an enthusiastic demonstration of the marla (tiny kangaroos) they were hand feeding at night.

Hope is a vital quality for Christians who believe God is working his purpose out. I was uplifted seeing God’s mysterious work: threatened creatures coming to be fed; men and women following their passion for God’s creatures: the hope that human skill and love will be a blessing – the hope that the marla will survive their transfer to another property west of Alice Springs, where the climate is more suitable to the ancestral genes.

I saw the faith and hope and love at Scotia, which I did not expect. It was in this place and I never knew. I felt the love of God working in the hearts and minds of our guides and teachers there. I believe that God‘s love can be manifest wherever it is most needed. As it was for Jacob.

I heard the scientists and keepers utter words of hope for our land. I saw their common love for those creatures great and small whose survival depends on their expertise. I saw and felt their mutual friendship and love for a way of life that took them away from the city lights, the comforts of modern living and the closeness of family and friends for the sake of their fellow created beings who are in mortal danger. The community built around faith and hope and love seemed to me like a monastic community; a community where God was in that place and they never knew. Thanks be to God.

Reflections on John 15.1-11Bexhill 17 May 2017

Yes, the vine looks dead.The True Vine no longer true.Hope gone.

‘Abide in me’. For what?You who speak of life in all its fullness,You who speak of joy.Was it all a lie?Or does this vine belie a greater truth.An abiding truth.

The branches wait.They wait for warmer days, when God’s love triumphs and life returns.

The first stirrings of hope,The life force that cannot be extinguished rises up from the depths from the grave.

Apart from me you can do nothing.Lord, help us to abide that our lives might be lived in you,Entwined in love. Expectant hope.Promised joy.

Sue Woodcock

The True Vine


Faith, hope and love will last forever, but the greatest of all is love.Corinthians 1 13:13

Denise Lay

As I sit preparing this article, am thinking how best to describe ‘faith, hope and love’. It would be the Easter story, by following Mary’s steps in faith, hope and love; Jesus’ mother is our model of a woman trusting in God. An amazing example of a mother in times of trial and joy.

Tony and I are currently crossing the Nullarbor Plain, an expanse of around 260,000 square kms – nulla abour meaning no trees. While this vast area may be treeless it is certainly not lifeless. The majestic limestone coast which becomes a haven for the southern right whales and their calves is a wonderful sight – a mother’s love for her young as she plays and protects them from the dangers of the sea. There is also an array of animals and birdlife.

The Lutheran Church missionaries first came to this area around 1838, whose initial ministry was to the Aboriginal communities. Homesteads and then the West Australian goldrush opened small townships; later came the Trans Australian Railway. Churches of different faiths were established including the Anglican Church (then Church of England).

I’m sure Mothers’ Union branches opened in some of these areas, and may still exist. Having long been a supporter of BCA (Bush Church Aid Society) I purchased in the Cowell opp shop a book published in 1981 on the first 60 years of the society. It is an interesting history.

Our work as members of Mothers’ Union not only today but from Mary Sumner’s time is not unlike our early missionaries and those called to their ministry; that is proclaiming God’s love for us all. At times, it has not been easy and the challenges of life and its changes will always be there. On the other hand, we are often rewarded with success in what we are undertaking.

What were the thoughts of our first missionaries to the remote areas of our vast country? What were Mary Sumner’s initial thoughts with her vision to support women as mothers and believed their primary responsibility was to raise their children in the love of God?

When we walk in the presence of God and make him the centre of our lives we will go forward together, through all the ups and downs of life.

faith makes all things possible by trusting and believing in the promises of god.

hope makes all things work, and as christians we have the hope of eternal life.

love makes all things beautiful.As we celebrate our 125th anniversary how will each of us as disciples of God, promote our work to make

a difference to families and family life, as well as wear our badge?In Christian love and friendship

Denise


One of the strongest building shapes known to people is the pyramid, especially the equilateral triangle shaped with three sides and the triangular base. This is evident when we see the pyramids of Egypt,

still standing strongly after thousands of years. There is something about the way the sides support each other, and the benefit of the structure is the ideal shape and size determined by engineers.The larger the base, the bigger the pyramid can be built, but everything remains in a state of constant dependency on the other.

Humour me for a minute, and we won’t get too technical. Let’s call the base of our pyramid ‘our life’, and assign to the equal sides the names of ‘Faith’, ‘hope’, and ‘love’. Mia Mia this month is taking as its theme ‘Faith, Hope and Love’, so you will have many articles to think about that will edify you as you think about ‘these three things’.

I want to suggest to you that each of them have an important part to play supporting the other, and that they in turn, provide the strength on which our life is founded.

Can we grow the pyramid?

To maintain the inherent strength of the structure, we need to grow it evenly and slowly, with faith, hope and love growing at the same rate to increase our base of life.

God understands this – in fact he initiated this growth. But the growth we pass through in our growth in holiness, our increase in faith, our greater capacity to love, and our confidence in hope is a ‘little by little’ process. His promise to the Israelites into the land of abundance (Find this in Exodus 23:29-30) was ‘But I (God) will not drive (the people) out in a single year … (but) little by little I will drive them out before you until you have increased enough to take possession of the land.’

This is a process of life called ‘sanctification’ (saint if ication – turning us into saints), and it is this process of growth which the Lord is most interested in for our life.

At the risk of being a discouragement, (I really want this to be encouraging) this growth process into holiness is far from easy. It is complex and it is slow. It is a life-long process, and when we read Romans 8:28-29 we read that the reason why ‘all things work together for our good’ is so that we might be ‘conformed to the image of His son.’ We will become like Jesus.

May our prayer be that we will enable the Lord to grow our sides to increase our base – that we grow in faith, hope and love, little by little that our base – our life – is conformed to the image of Jesus.

John CronshawBuspa


A Thanksgiving Service was held in Bowen 17 June 2017 with people from Townsville, Charters Towers, Collinsville, Bowen, Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Pioneer Valley and Mackay, and representatives from other denominations in Bowen attending.

Slow moving and in developing strength, Tropical Cyclone Debbie arrived in the Coral Sea threatening towns and coastal communities from Townsville south. While we waited, we could not imagine the havoc this cyclone would bring and the severe flooding that followed all the way into northern NSW.

As Debbie grew in strength and came closer to the coast, authorities ordered the evacuation of coastal communities and low areas in towns and cities. In faith and trust, most people obeyed.Because some had animals - dogs and cats – they could not go to Cyclone Shelters. Church became a refuge for some.

On 27 March, Debbie finally made landfall near Airlie Beach. This popular tourist spot, along with Proserpine, Bowen, Collinsville and Mackay, felt the strength of her winds which lasted for hours – and then followed the torrential rain.

We give thanks for all those first responders and local heroes who helped each other to clear debris and share generators. The power was out for a week or more in some places and there was no running water. Emergency workers assembled in Mackay and Townsville waiting for safe transport routes.

On 17 June in Holy Trinity Anglican Church Bowen, Rev’d John McKim presented a wonderful Liturgy of Praise and Thanksgiving, recalling those dark days and giving thanks for no loss of life and few serious injuries. Using the Gospel passage of

Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4: 35-41), he led us to understand, that in the midst of danger, to put our trust in the Lord and have faith that he is with us.

Two members who lost their homes received cheques from AMUA Disaster and Relief Fund at the time of the offertory, as a sign of giving as well as receiving. Over 100 people received Communion. We left the church singing You shall go out with Joy. We give thanks to AMUA for their gift to two members and also for providing lunch and the cost of hiring buses from Townsville and Mackay for this event.

Lunch time was a time for greeting friends from the past now living in other towns; catching up, lots of laughter; and time to talk and share our experiences. Participants were asked to sit with someone they didn’t know or who was from another town.

They were asked 3 questions:• Where were you during cyclone Debbie?• Where was God in the storm?• What did you fear most?The noise level rose dramatically as these questions

were discussed in small groups and responses shared with the whole group. The day ended with a prayer, a quick cuppa and people left – many with a 2 to 3 hour journey home.

As people departed we heard so many say, “This has been a great day, just what we needed - a time to share”.

Thank you AMUA for helping those of us who live in the Dry Tropics create such a wonderful day of Thanksgiving and Sharing.

Deane Bray,Vice President Dry Tropics Region North Queensland.


On 12th May, 91 year old Alice Doreen Isedale was presented with an award at the NSW Parliament House, for her community service, but in particular for her service to MU.

The occasion was the 25th Annual Jean Arnot Memorial Luncheon co-organised by the, National Council of Women NSW and the Australian Federation of Business and Professional Women and was hosted by the Honourable Jenny Aitchison MP.

Alice has been a member of the West Wollongong MU for over 60 years. During this time she has knitted and crotched for the ‘Welcome to Baby Baskets’ and has been a hospital visitor for the majority of her membership years. She carried out Court Visiting Ministry activities as long as her health permitted.

Cheery by nature, Alice is a constant source of joy and encouragement to all who know her. She is a gentle, unassuming woman who gives her all for the sake of the gospel and fully embraces the two great commandments of loving God and her neighbours.

When a new ministry was introduced by St Mark’s, Alice immediately responded to the call. She has been a member of the team who regularly visit the Diment Towers’ Aged Care facility for some twenty years and in this capacity has provided morning tea, shared communion and talked to residents.

The Cancer Council Biggest Cup of Tea has been held at St Mark’s for many years and Alice could always be found in the kitchen working very hard at the sink, preparing scones or serving at tables.

Congratulations Alice!


On 23 June five ladies from the Geraldton Fellowship group set off for a weekend away at Carnarvon which is about 5 hours drive from Geraldton. We were all billeted with MU members from Carnarvon.

On Saturday morning we helped out at the local markets enjoying fellowship with the local people.

Fellowship in Carnarvon, WA

St Barnabas Mothers Union, part of the Bathurst diocese, celebrated 58 years in the Parish of West Wyalong on 18 June. Certificates were given to members celebrating important milestones in their association with our group. Pictured standing (left to right) are Susan Haines: 15 years, Marie Seckold: 20 years, Gwen Downey: 15 years, Joyce Heaslip: 15 years and (seated) Ruth Rogers: 20 years. Missing from our picture were Barbara Bowland and Fran Mitchell who both achieved 20 years of membership. A 50 year badge was posted to member Betty Meacham who now resides in Canberra.

Celebrations in West Wyalong

Winter Gathering in Bendigo

We had some free time to go and have a look at Carnarvon. At 2.30pm we met back at Simpson house (St George’s Church Hall) for a short service and meeting. One of the members from Carnarvon Fellowship showed us a new craft. It took a little while to get it all finished. For dinner we shared fish and chips followed by mango and ice cream.

On Sunday morning we went to the 9am church service at St George’s where we were made very welcome. After the service the locals put on a beautiful morning tea. At 11:30 am the ladies from Geraldton said their goodbyes and we headed home. We arrived home about 5pm.

The future plan is to bring the Carnarvon Ladies to Geraldton in November. We give thanks to our Lord for the safe travel we had both ways.

Gladys Sutton

The Mother’s Union Bendigo Diocese Winter Gathering was held at St Peter’s in Elmore. The MU ladies put on a delicious soup for everyone to enjoy.

Rev’d Barry Rainsford led the service and Rev’d Linda Osmond gave a homily whilst Rev’d Tracey Wolsley welcomed everyone. About forty people attended the service including ten members of Caritas South East Bendigo.

In the afternoon everyone made ribbon stars. Small gifts to the value of $5 were exchanged. MU Publications had a stall selling cards and gifts.

Ken Adams from Cohuna was inducted into the Mother’s Union by Rev’d Linda Osmond(Pictured)

Photo by Val Densworth.


The Wet Tropics, far north Queensland

St George, Mareeba and St Mary the Virgin, Atherton 60th Birthday

On 3 June, the Mothers Union branches of St George, Mareeba and St Mary the Virgin, Atherton combined to celebrate their sixtieth birthdays, both branches being formed in 1957. Members of both branches participated in the service in St Mary the Virgin church, Atherton led by Rev’d Robyn Boyd and including banner parade and candle litany. The address by Helen Keith (President of Atherton branch) walked the congregation through a reflection on the social environment of the fifties and the nature of families working in that environment. An insight into how the Church together with Mothers Union was seen as the guardian of the social fabric of society led to the position of Mothers Union today and its mission in society.

Reflections on the histories of both branches and sharing from some past presidents added to the great display of memorabilia. A wonderful musical interlude was provided by local talent.

The cutting of the cake by Marie Mitchell from Mareeba, a member of over 50 years and Alma Timmins, a member of Atherton for 36 years, was a special moment. For the Atherton branch, it was also a celebration of their new branch name ‘Atherton Tableland Anglican Mothers Union Australia’.

Two branches held fundraising events for Overseas and Northern Outreach projects in June, raising over $1300.

St James Keppel Parish Mothers’ Union hosted a Wedding Memories event where a number of parishioners modelled their wedding gown or had it on display. There were about a hundred who participated in the High Tea with multi-draw raffles, raising over $1000 for the Overseas Project. People had a lot of fun, recalling great memories and creating new ones. Parishioner John Minto acted as Father of the Bride for the ladies who wore their wedding gowns walking down the aisle. Rev’d Claire Dewar was the compere for the afternoon wearing the Mother-of-the-Bride outfit she wore at one of her daughter’s wedding. There were more than a dozen gowns on display, including bridesmaids.

St Paul’s Cathedral Branch had a promotions day at the Church services on the day, with a stall of home cooking, plants, books and so on, raising over $500 which was split evenly between Overseas Project, Northern Outreach and Delegates Funds. An insert in the pew sheet outlined how Mothers Union funds support Mission in the parish, Australia and Overseas.

A number of members in all branches support the $1 per week for Northern Outreach, so more funds will ensue form that later in the year. Another branch makes an annual donation.

Noelle Frazer, Diocesan President

The two pictures are of John with Sandra Younger-Purnell and MU member Lorraine Veach wearing their own wedding dresses.

Wedding memories in Rockhampton


Hospitality in the Top End

The MU Australia NT Branch enjoy offering hospitality to southern and overseas visitors to Darwin and is one of the ways in which the members demonstrate their Christian faith in action.Recently we met with Margaret Burgmann (above left) from Sydney, who is a Lone Member of MU Sydney and Libbie Crossman,(above right) former MU Australia President.If you are visiting Darwin please contact us and enjoy some Top End hospitality.

Sandgate Northpoint MU celebrated its 102nd Anniversary on 19 July 2017 at St Margaret’s Parish hall. Holy Communion by the President, Rev’d Eleanor Mancini. (3rd from right) was followed by morning tea not only to celebrate the Special day, but also to congratulate members who received their long service awards: Andrea Morton (2nd from right) and Gail Wade (2nd from left) who received their 25 year award and Certificates.Sandgate Northpoint MU also celebrated their new banner put together by the Rev’d Eleanor Mancini

Sandgate Northpoint 102nd Anniversary

Pentecost in Hervey BayOur branch constructed a display covering the work of MU worldwide, diocesan and locally on Pentecost Sunday under our Banner.

Items showed our hospital visiting basket with gifts for babies at the Hervey Bay Hospital, baptismal bears with the invitation to the newly baptised to attend the annual Teddy Bear service for the blessing of their baptismal bear, simnel cake distributed on Mothering Sunday together with a special heart with a verse about mothers, knitted squares made into blankets for Anglicare, Fiddle cushions for dementia patients, cradle roll cards, blessing boxes for those in need, branch involvement in Parish activities, caring for our sick and shut-in members through Prayer and Spirituality Department and IPC.


Members of St Andrew’s Pittsworth celebrated 60 years of their Branch on 17 May. 90 people gathered including present and past members, church officials and visitors from other churches and other branches from the Toowoomba Deanery.

During the service Diocesan President Beverley Perry presented inaugural member Margaret Warfield with her 60 year long service MU Badge. Margaret was the inaugural treasurer in 1957.

The Anniversary Cake, bearing the new AMUA logo was cut by long term Pittsworth Mothers Union members Joyce Bailey (59years) and Margaret Warfield (60years), assisted by current President Anne Scott.

Pittsworth MU turns 60

St Luke’s ToowoombaNight Group

Sheree Leonard and Jan Twidale were presented with scrolls and gifts to mark 10 years of membership by Deanery President Susan Skowronski

Celebration of Community Care GroupsIn response to the Diocese of the Murray’s call to join together with neighbouring parishes and ignite Growth, and a strong sense God is calling us to step out into the community in faith, our Parish of Mt Barker Mothers Union group hosted a Celebration of Community Care Groups.Representatives from the following groups were allowed 5 mins for a presentation: The Zonta Club of the Adelaide Hills expect Respect.Mount Barker Uniting Church hungry No More -A weekly meal and on going support for people in need, both physically and spirituallyAnglican Community Care, Murray Bridge – servicing the Adelaide Hills, and homeless peoplehouse of hospitality, Strathalbyn Parish - The old rectory supports people spiritually, and physicallyBalhannah opportunity Shop – run by the Onkaparinga Parish to support the parish finances and more importantly, support community initiatives.Families equip - MU Australia’s parenting programAnglican Parish of Mt BarkerChat and Do - a craft program by the Mt Barker Baptist Church, involving up to 80 women weekly.Not by Sight alone - a monthly group for people with low vision offered by the Mount Barker Parish.University of the Third age helpless Colony orphanage, Nepal - supported by the Mount Barker Parish, Minlaton parish on Yorke Peninsula, and many other people in the communityThis was followed by small group discussions , feedback to the whole group, looking forward and Midday Prayers from the Mothers Union prayer book.This comment from a participant at the conclusion of the session sums up the general feeling of the meeting:-i get tired of all the negatives in the media! This was a morning of positive information which was most uplifting.

Our plans for the future? To use today’s information as the beginning of a database which can be accessed on a website, To arrange another community opportunity similar to thisTo continue to seek God’s guidance as we reach out to all of His people


Breaking New but Old Ground

Church in the Park

faye davis

In light of our Aims and Objects, we know it is important for us to spread fellowship and encouragement in our parishes, and in our nation. There is certainly a great need for it, and much to be gained from doing so.

St Matthew’s Anglican Church, Stirling Square, Guildford, is fondly known as the Church in the Park, and is breaking new but old ground. Like other churches in the region, St Matthew’s is a historic building.Stirling Square was named after the first governor of the European settlement, Captain James Stirling, and although he returned to England quite early, he left his mark in that he chose the site of the first Anglican Church in the Diocese of Perth, known as All Saints’, on the upper reaches of the Swan River at Henley Brook. The history of this area is fairly well-documented, but there is history that is not so well-known, and is now being addressed.

At Guildford, the Rev’d Katrina and Jonathan Holgate and the Rev’d Alison Gilchrist, together with their supporters, have been honouring the not-so-well-known history. And it is bringing much joy. We’ve been sharing a Service in the Park, under the trees, with the Aboriginal Community on the fourth Sunday of each month, at 4.00 p.m. and sharing some food before returning home. The park was always a very special site for the Aboriginal people—a meeting place, and a resting place, particularly after funerals for which people had often travelled long distances. Aboriginal funerals have been held in St Matthew’s Church over many, many years.

At a recent gathering those present were given a very special gift—a disc of the Lord’s Prayer in Nyoongar, sung by the Rev’d Uncle Sam Dinah, and spoken by musician Tom Little, who has played the didgeridoo at these meetings. Sam and Elder Allan Kickett are very special men of faith and we learn so much from them. The task set for us was to learn the Lord’s Prayer, or Ngaala Maaman Waangk (Our Lord Speaks) in the Nyoongar language, so we could sing at St George’s Cathedral at an Energise event, which included others sharing this prayer in their national language. It was a lovely experience even though we have far to go, but it was in preparation for us to make a contribution to the more widely held desire to see these ancient languages saved and taught, even where lost in some younger generations.

Church in the Park is so enjoyable, and the breaking of new but old ground, the fellowship already bringing healing and joy. And we dare to dream that such gatherings will spread across this nation. I share this experience with our readers in the hope that we might in some way extend our outreach within our branches and embrace many more caring and loving mothers and grandmothers and learn about their experiences.

N o o n g a r i s t h e official language of the Aboriginal people of the south-west of Western Australia. T h e l a n g u a g e i s made up of fourteen different dialects. It is an oral language and the spelling of it is variable.Noongar dialects have changed over time, incorporat ing and mixing with English.Many Noongar people of today grew up speaking English in school and Noongar at home.Some Noongar words to learn: kaya – hellowanju – welcomenidja/yimniny – heredjurapin – happynyininy/nyin – sitNih/ni – listenkaartdijin – knowledge, learn


What In The World Is Mothers Union Doing? A Word about our Overseas Project

One of the ways in which members of Angl i can Mother s Union Australia fulfil their Aim and Objects is to support a project in one or more countries overseas.

The project chosen for our particular attention in 2017-18 is ‘Developing Peace and Reconciliation strategies in conflict-ravaged areas of Africa.’ The following is an excerpt from an article written by Rose Wright, Campaigns and Social Policy Officer at Mary Sumner House, in which she explains the background to this project. Rose says…

‘…Mothers’ Union has sought to promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the protection of children; and to support those whose lives have met with adversity for 140 years. Around the world, many of our 4 million members in the 83 countries in which they live and work, are confronting women’s roles as peace builders and reconcilers head on. Many of our members are directly affected by the everyday realities of war, and are working hard for peace, at the individual level, in families, within their communities, and by advocating with decision makers and those involved in formal peace channels. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mothers’ Union practically supports women affected by sexual violence in conflict, and advocates on their behalf with decision makers at national and international level.

In South Sudan, Mothers’ Union members have been actively involved in getting women’s voices heard throughout the peace processes, and in disseminating and sensitising those at the grassroots level on issues of peace and security. They also provide practical support to those displaced because of conflict, and have been involved in facilitating community healing and reconciliation processes. Mothers’ Union is also looking at how as an international network, and one of the oldest women’s organisations in the world, we can work together in a coordinated manner to advocate for peace. When we look at the need around us, and see our communities devastated by violence and

conflict, our response must be to act, and to make sure that we speak up for, and raise the voices of women around the world!’1

The support of members and friends of Anglican Mothers Union Australia will enable Mothers Union Community Development Coordinators in several African countries to train women in leadership, promote reconciliation in their communities and help women and children recover from rape and other personal trauma.

We have a Biblical mandate to ‘care for those whose lives have met with adversity’. Let’s fulfil it generously and seriously. As we are reminded in the Apostle Paul’s instructions to Timothy and the church,

‘… be rich in kindly actions, be ready to give to others and to sympathise with those in distress.’ 1 Timothy 6:18 (Phillips)

Christine Brain, Overseas and Northern Outreach Coordinator

1 Wright, Rose, Women’s Economic Empowerment – How Mothers’ Union works towards gender equality. An article for International Women’s Day, 2017


Fluttering? I am really thinking about gambling and the role it plays in our society. We have all heard the expression, ‘she enjoys a little flutter.’

Did you know that Australia leads the world in the amount lost per head each year through gambling? Our losses in 2016 were $1292 per adult person, and the next country is Singapore with about $700 per person. This amounted to about $23 billion in 2014-2015. (1) As you think about this, remember that many people do not gamble.

Also, these losses are disproportionately borne by those who can least afford them. It’s mainly lotteries and poker machines, of course. But instead of trying to curtail gambling, our authorities seems to be allowing its spread more and more through electronic means. Have you noticed how frequently now ads for gambling appear on the sporting programs on TV? A proportion of p eople are addicted, problem gamblers. But a problem gambler has an effect on many. A few years ago, the Australian Medical Association put out a report which said, ‘up to 5 million Australians feel the health, social and financial impacts of problem gambling including friends, families and employers of people with a gambling problem.’ (2)

It also said, ‘problem gamblers have a higher than average number of visits to a GP, and experience an increased incidence of physical illnesses such as hypertension, insomnia, migraine and other stress-related problems.’ (2) People gamble for a variety of reasons: the idea of becoming wealthy, hope for a better future, social interaction, recreation, a way of giving to charity.

The Bible does not directly forbid gambling. Instead, it offers a critique of the reasons which lead people to gamble and it offers something better. In the end it would be hard to conclude that the Bible endorses this behaviour and for that reason many Christians abstain entirely. This would be my own position. Thus, the Bible warns us about love of money and the powerful negative impact of greed. But in

gambling, we are trying to gain money not through work but through chance.

The Bible calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves. But much gambling depends on winning what other people lose. When we gamble, we must consider consequences – especially for the problem gambler.

The Bible calls us to provide for ourselves through the work of our hands, not through chance and luck. The Bible calls us to live by faith in the Lord and his provision, which

comes to us through work, our own or another’s. Above all, the Bible calls on us to be generous, ‘for God loves a cheerful giver’ (2 Corinthians 9:7). One of the tragedies is, that gambling is so often used as a way of raising money for good causes. This makes it appear that gambling is morally neutral. Furthermore, it suggests that we will not give unless there is a chance of receiving something in return. Surely it is far better for us to encourage people to give freely, spontaneously, generously to good causes. I think we would find that more is raised by this method than by raffles and the like. And it would model what we hope is a pattern of generosity so important in today’s world.

Governments can help. It would be impossible to ban gambling – human beings always get around such a law. But it has been the positive attitude of government to poker machines which has made us so welcoming to this evil. Furthermore it is a form of revenue to the government, which means that addicted people are paying for things which the rest of us enjoy.

But governments can help by channelling and restricting gambling and we should be ready to take this matter up with our representatives. It is tragic, for example, to hear of a second casino being built in Sydney. We do not need it and it will only serve the interests of those who own it.

In the end, though, this is a matter of the heart. The question of gambling is played out in our hearts as we think about trusting God, being generous, resisting greed, loving our neighbour, finding our deepest fellowship amongst God’s people and not allowing ourselves to be enslaved. The gospel of Jesus offers help in the very areas which motivate so many to gamble in the first place. Here is hope, and here is love.

As Jesus once said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’! (Acts 20:35).1. http://www.news.com.au/finance/money/costs/scary-graph-shows-how- australians-are-the-biggest-losers/news-story/4a437cd5f735b87988549b37af12917f2. https://ama.com.au/position-statement/health-effects-problem-gambling-2013

to flutter or not to flutter?

christine Jensen


in 2016 rev’d paul kOrir was elected first bishOp Of kapsabet anglican diOcese in kenya.

Prior to his election, he served as an ordained priest focused primarily in the Psigor area doing evangelism, church planting and leadership development. At that time Bishop Paul said, ‘I see myself serving a Church that is vibrant, relevant and connected to Christ and is a mission partner across the globe. I see myself leading an empowered Church that responds actively, holistically and prophetically to the 21st century challenges that hinder the growth of the Church. The future of the Church is secured because of Christ.’

On Tuesday 2nd May, Bishop Paul Korir, together with his wife Selline and Archdeacons Sammy and Elijah, joined with MU members from the South-West region of Western Australia so we could share experiences. It was very good to have so many members in attendance from Boyanup, Bunbury, Carey Park, Mandurah and Pinjarra branches, together with several visitors and, joy of joy, some prospective MU members.

After a welcome from our Diocesan President Jean, Selline spoke about the work of MU in her diocese. There was particular emphasis on the work MU members achieve with women: assisting the newly–married (often quite young women), assisting girls with the necessities to enable them to commence the school year, helping women with the constant day-to-day work that they undertake.

There are 2023 MU members in the Diocese of Kapsabet contrasting with the 171 members we have in the Diocese of Bunbury! What a difference. Following her talk, Selline presented Jean, Doreen, Beth and Margaret with a beautiful length of material and left it to their imagination as to how they would wear it. Tricia, our Bishop’s wife, wore a beautiful MU outfit that Selline had given her. We expect to see Tricia suitably robed at future diocesan events!!

Those in attendance then had the opportunity to watch a PowerPoint presentation outlining some of the main events that take place in our diocese and some of the outreaches that our branches undertake. Many thanks to the branches for bringing along their banners and also many items of interest for a comprehensive display (and for the afternoon tea!).

Jean presented Selline with some gifts from our diocese including a Joy Box, a MU Worship and Prayer Book, the latest edition of the Mia Mia and the Mustard Tree, and some beanies. Bishop Paul and the two archdeacons wore their beanies to great acclaim.

Visitors from

Kenya

The beanies proved to be great fun!

Tricia and Selline in their MU outfits


ARCHBISHOP WELBy PAyS TRIBUTE

Photo: Mama Samira, Mothers’ Union Sudan’s Leader For Khartoum, leads prayers for peace at the inauguration of the new Anglican Province of Sudan.

photo credit: nicola lawrence / Mothers’ union

The archbishop of canterbury Justin welby paid tribute to the anglican mission agency Mothers’ union, describing them as ‘the heart and love of the church’.

Speaking at the inauguration of the new Anglican Province of Sudan in Khartoum, the Archbishop said he recognised ‘the importance of Mothers’ Union in Sudan. . . May God bless you…Provinces of Mothers’ Union around the world are praying for you today and always.”

The first Archbishop of the new province, Ezekiel Kondo, also thanked the MU for their support and for ‘always being there.’

During the service, the elected leader of MU in Khartoum, Mama Samira, led prayers for peace. She was elected leader after becoming literate and numerate, gaining skills and confidence, through a Mothers’ Union’s literacy and financial education programme.

In a message to the new Archbishop, the worldwide president of the MU, Lynne Tembey, said: ‘May all who lead the Church in the newly formed Province of Sudan, guide and direct those within their care with love and compassion seeking God’s guidance in all things. I pray too for all people in Sudan. May the light of Christ continue to be your light, your guide and pathway.’

Ahead of the historic service, members of MU from dioceses across Sudan took part in a week-long workshop mapping out their priorities for the future. Organised by the Sudan MU leadership with support of the UK MU development team, the week identified education, growing and developing good leaders within the MU and building capacity of individuals, especially women, as their priorities.

‘We have met with Mothers’ Union leaders from across Sudan listening to their joys, challenges and the hopes and dreams they have for the future,’ said Nicola Lawrence, MU’s head of development and policy. ‘Every day I have been humbled and inspired by the passion and commitment of the members who selflessly and sacrificially serve others in the community from visiting those who are sick in hospital or in their homes, supporting those in prison, to building the capacity of women through literacy, skills training and savings groups. Please pray for Mothers’ Union Sudan as they move forward together as a new province working together to be salt and light within their communities.’

This article from the Anglican Communion News Service on Wednesday 2 August 2017. Subscribe for your daily update at http://www.anglicannews.org/acns-daily-summary.aspx


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What an inspiring and beautiful story we heard at our recent meeting.

Early in 2006 Lyn journeyed to Cambodia with her eldest daughter and this experience moved her by the images of extreme poverty and desperate circumstances many people there found themselves part of.

A life changing experience came after Lyn’s chance meeting with Tith Tek, a young Cambodian village man desperate for a better future for the next generation and educational opportunities for their rural village children.

Lyn wanted to help this impoverished village community, so in order to raise much needed funds, Gift Cards were designed as Bricks and sold to start the Building Fund. By 2008 enough money had been raised for 11 village workers to commence building a School. Great news, an Educational Centre opened in 2009 offering free educational opportunities for 855 very eager students. Student numbers increased considerably, so more money had to be raised. Today they now have many facilities within the School to help them on the way to independence. It is a hub of activity with almost 2000 students from 33 villages attending classes today.

The impact of the project on the local Community is most noticeable. A reward for the hard work it has taken to see this shared dream by many come to fruition.

The young man Lyn met back in 2006 has completed his Teacher Training and is now Director of the Education Centre. He is doing his PhD in Rural Development and Project Management.

What a difference Lyn has made to these people’s lives by giving of her time, her knowledge, love and support. It has been truly inspirational. It is what makes life meaningful.

Singing Kites

Jennifer Murray

Mothers’ Union Logo Changing with the Times

As we launch a new logo, it is interesting to look back at some, but not all, of the previous ones we have been permitted to use - dates approximate.

1901

1910 1930 1950

1980

2007 2009

1998

2007 2009


Notes on thought-full parentingThis is the story of how I went from being a determined young woman, focused on career, to being a devoted mother and writer. It tracks fifteen years of my journey from London to Melbourne to Hobart.

I wanted my children to have a slow childhood. I wanted them to experience the world from a deeply rooted sense of home. I wanted them to be creative, adventurous and curious. Before the world started making demands I wanted them to have a rounded sense of themselves. I wanted them to build towers from wooden blocks, fly kites, make cubby houses, play tricks, have adventures, tease each other, roll down hills, be tickled, make cakes, get bored, read picture books, ride scooters, draw pictures, climb trees and make sandcastles.

I wanted to do these things with them – as did Paul, their father. We both wanted to get something personal out of Alex and Emma’s childhood, and not just chaperone them through it.

This is the story of that childhood, of afternoons spent playing Lego on the bedroom floor, of trips to the park and of DVDs minus commercial television. However, before this comes over as a rosy, have-it-all, guilt-inducing story of family life to make the most relaxed working mother seethe, there was always one hitch. Which is that throughout Alex and Emma’s childhood I never found a work-life balance. I’ve never reconciled my personal ambitions with love for family. They were always chalk and cheese.

Thankfully I have found a small still voice that guides me through family life. I’ve found a grace, a vulnerability, that has deepened my appreciation of life. This may not sound like much on paper – my pregnant self might have sniffed – however now that my children are finishing school, and I’ve stepped into middle age, this grace feels precious, earned even.

Throughout my twenties I read and taught a lot of Virginia Woolf ’s work. Though I read her less now, I’m still touched by To the Lighthouse, in which she reflects on her upbringing through recalling family holidays by the sea. On first reading this novel I assumed it was about the passage of time. It was about the way life happens to you, rather than the other way round. I felt convinced Mrs Ramsey, the motherly central figure, was nostalgic. She harked back to a time when it was acceptable for a woman to credit

her life through family, rather than her own life’s work. She doesn’t cook the beef dish she serves up to family and guests, I thought waspishly. She just thanks her cook.

Now that I’m a Mrs Ramsey in my own family, sadly minus help, I respond to her very differently. These days I admire her for being vitally present even after her death. I see her

maternal qualities seep into her every relationship, with her children, her husband, her house, her garden and her visitors. Above all I see the way she holds everything together, enjoying her children and crediting the lives of those around her as deeply valuable. Now that I too care for my family as much as myself, that solidity feels incredibly real.

While my children haven’t read To the Lighthouse, in their minds I’m Mrs Ramsey. This is no mistake that they’ve made. Over the years I’ve let them take possession of me, encouraged it even. I’ve wanted them to feel that I’m there for them no matter what. I’ve wanted them to take me for granted. Not because I’ve wanted them to become petty tyrants, but because by letting them lean on me while they were young, by offering them a slow childhood, I hoped that they’d grow up strong inside and so less in need of me later. Just as my sisters and I once grew out of our mother.

Hints at the end of each chapter are things I learned along the way that might help young women who are wondering what being a mother might be like, as well as mothers are immersed in family life and long for a perspective on it, and also women who, their children grown up, wonder what all the fuss was about. And, no less, for all these women’s partners.

Childhood is a place that we all benefit from spending time in, no matter where we are in our lives. Whether we dip in and out, or accompany our own children throughout it, childhood offers a special kind of magic which is always there for us. This is why I’ve wanted Alex and Emma’s childhood to pass slowly, to savour and draw on it for the rest of my life.This is an edited excerpt from tasmanian helen hayward’s preface to her new book, a Slow Childhood: Notes on thoughtful parenting.

Helen Hayward


holiday offer from Mothers’ union for families affected by london tower block blaze

MOthers’ uniOn is planning tO suppOrt faMilies whO were affected by the lOndOn tOwer blOck fire tragedy in June by Offering hOlidays under the charity’s away frOM it all (afia) scheMe.

Margaret Blazey, Diocesan President for Mother’s Union in the London Diocese, said, ‘We are working with the Bishop of Kensington’s office in co-ordinating plans to help as many families as possible who have been caught up in this terrible tragedy.’

AFIA is funded by Mothers’ Union members to help people who are experiencing stress in their family life to enjoy much-needed family time together. The cost of the holiday or travel expenses are met by Mothers’ Union.

In 2016 Mothers’ Union provided 3,400 people across the UK and Ireland with a much needed break. The holidays take many different forms. Some are specially organised family weeks where a number of families and a team of volunteers go away together with activities and outings arranged. Others may take place in a holiday home owned by

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Mothers’ Union, usually sited near a beach. Some holidays take the form of day trips.

Mothers’ Union’s CEO, Bev Jullien, said, ‘It is hard to imagine what these families are currently experiencing and what they have gone through. At Mothers’ Union we thought about how best we could support them.’ She continued, ‘We have been running AFIA holidays for more than 50 years. These holidays reflect the heart of who we are by showing practical support where it is needed most.’

The charity recognises that this is not a short term issue and that the impact of this tragedy will continue for many years to come. Mothers’ Union is inviting families to apply for a holiday at a time that best suits them, whenever that might be. Mothers’ Union continues to pray for the families and all of those affected.

For behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.

Solomon 2 : 11-12


Answering Children’s Questions About... the ChurCh

Part 5 of a seven part question series

GodJesus

The BiblePrayer

The ChurchGood & Evil

Heaven & Hell

Written by Canon Janne Whitehead in response to questions asked during almost 50 years of teaching

Religious Education in schools.

Parts 1 & 2 published inMia Mia Summer 2016 edition

Part 3 published in Autumn 2017Part 4 published in Winter 2017

answering children’s questiOns... The church

Who made the first church?Jesus told Peter and the other disciples to be his church, so, after Jesus went back to heaven, they started meeting for prayer on Sundays, in each other’s homes. This was the first church.

Why do people go to church?To praise God and hear his messages for our lives and be together with other Christians.

Who can go to church?Anyone and everyone. All the people who go to church actually are the church, because an empty building by itself wouldn’t be a proper church at all.

Do we have to go to church?Going to church is really, really important to keep our lives with God balanced, and to share support and encouragement with other Christians.

Why do we go to church on Sundays and not on the sabbath day?The word ‘sabbath’ actually means ‘rest’. For people of the Old Testament, the day of rest was the 7th day of the week, but for Christians it is Sunday, the day Jesus came alive again.

Why do people get Baptized?Getting baptized is like putting up your hand to say that you want to be a child of God, part of his big world-wide family of the church.

What’s the bread and wine at church all about?Jesus gave us the bread and wine as symbols of his Body and Blood. We share them at church because Jesus told us to, and to share his strength and his life.


Contemplating Psalm 51Holy God, I stand before you

My head is bowedMy hands hang limply.

My humanity feels like such a burden. Weakness and inadequacy besiege me.

Help me Lord, for I am frail of spirit.

Have mercy on me, O God,According to your steadfast love;

According to your abundant mercyBlot out my transgressions.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity.And cleanse me from my sin.

I am aware of my frailty;I know how I have failed you.

Wisdom eludes me andUnderstanding escapes me.In you alone do I have faith;

you alone are my shield and my strength.

you desire truth in the inward being;Therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

Sprinkle me with hyssop and I shall be made clean.

Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

My soul longs to be refreshed in your Spirit.Renew in me those gifts

Which were given at Baptism.Teach me how to stand tall in your promise of new life.

Create in me a clean heart, O God,And put a new and right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation;

Sustain in me a willing spirit.O Lord, open my lips,

And my mouth will declare your praise.

Enya .


pause 4 poetryReNewaL

Majestic EucalyptMagnificent in life and dignif ied in deathLying amongst your younger siblings,Affording shade and shelter for your offspringThat they might grow straight and strong,Untroubled by capricious winds that bend,Tear young tender roots from nurturing earth to dry and wither.Decked out in spring as for a Carnival, garlanded with flowersThat twist and climb, like happy children on a kindly grandfather.Under your vast trunk is sanctuary for small and furry things, Creatures of the night, hid for a momentFrom the bright eyes of predator on wing or paw.Home to a thousand thousand tiny beingsMunching and processing shed bark and fallen leaves,Hardly diminishing your bulk, turning waste to warm moist bedsIn which dry seeds may swell and burst in their due seasonTo adorn the bush in all its glory.There is no death, but careful husbandry-The earth renews itself.Would that we careless wasteful mortals might take heed.And learn to tread with gentler footprintOn this world of wonder and delight that has been given to us to care for.Old tree, I thank you for your presence on out solitary walks, my dog and I,The peace you brought, the calm to dare in faith to pray for healing for my Loved one, blessedly bestowed, and to give thanks.Rest quietly at peace, your work is done.You have found favour with your God, your spirit lives.

Julia Carruthers

SunRiSe

From a cliff I gaze to seaward at the opalescent glow,where the stars are disappearing in a luminescent flow.I ponder on the motions of the planet and the oceans,

as the line of my horizon comes to life.

A crimson wash infuses through the sky, becoming red,as across the ocean’s surface the illuminations spread.

Shimmering reflection lights a spark in my perception,that the spectacle unfolding, mirrors life.

Cerise, extending higher, lifting up a glint of gold,brings a flood of inspiration for the riddles unresolved.I venerate the dawning and the wonder of the morning,

as it brings the world around me back to life.

Then the rising of a ruby from the silence of the sea,forms a segment, a circle, then it quivers, breaking free,

floating ever higher, tinting clouds with orange fire,it excites in me the miracle of life.

Hugh Allan

Susan Skowronski


ReCiPeS

Contributions to this page would be greatly appreciated.

ASPARAGUS, SUNDRIED TOMATO & OLIVE LOAF100ml olive oil , plus extra for greasing250g asparagus spears, each cut into 3 pieces200g self-raising flour1 tbsp thyme leaves3 large eggs , lightly beaten100ml milkhandful pitted black olives100g sundried tomatoes, roughly chopped100g Gruyère or Beaufort, grated

Method

Heat oven to 190C or fan forced 170C. Oil and line the base of a loaf tin (approx 22 x 10 x 5cm) with baking paper. Cook the asparagus in boiling, salted water for 2 mins, drain, then cool quickly under cold running water. Pat dry.

Mix the flour and thyme with seasoning in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre, add the eggs, milk and oil, stirring all the time to draw the flour into the centre. Beat for 1 min to make a smooth batter.

Reserve 5 asparagus tips and a few olives. Add the remaining asparagus, tomatoes, olives and two-thirds of the cheese to the batter. Pour into the tin, then put the reserved asparagus and olives on top.

Sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for 35-40 mins until the cake feels firm to the touch and is golden and crusty on top. Cool in the tin for 5 mins, then turn out and cool on a wire rack.

SPRING ROLLS

2 cups vegetable oil3 garlic cloves, finely chopped3 cups finely shredded wombok (Chinese cabbage)2 medium carrots, peeled, grated1 tablespoon cornflour1 tablespoon oyster sauce1 tablespoon soy sauce1 cup beansprouts, trimmed10 frozen spring roll wrappers, thawedSweet and sour sauce, to serve

Method

Stir-fry garlic, cabbage, and carrot in a pre-heated wok for 1 to 2 minutes until just wilted. Add cornflour, oyster sauce, soy sauce and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for 1 minute or until slightly thickened. Transfer mixture to a heatproof bowl and set aside to cool. Wash and dry wok.

Place 1 spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with 1 corner facing you. Cover remaining wrappers with a dry tea towel to prevent them from drying out.

Place 2 tablespoons cabbage mixture across corner. Fold corner over filling. Roll up firmly to enclose, folding in edges and brushing final corner with cold water to seal. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Heat remaining oil in wok over medium-high heat. Cook spring rolls, in batches, for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden. Using a slotted spoon, remove from wok. Drain on paper towel. Serve spring rolls with sweet and sour sauce.

From the Editor...Dear members,Welcome to our Spring issue of Mia Mia in this very special year when we mark the 125th anniversary of Mothers’ Union in Australia.

We are also celebrating the 100th birthday of this publication! Yes Mia Mia has reached its centenary. We give thanks to all who have been involved over the years, the editors, the contributors and even more importantly the readers. No magazine could survive without the loyal following of the readers! Personally I would like to thank those who have supported me in the past four years, with encouragement and positive feedback. I look forward to catching up with some of you at the conference in Tasmania

Many blessingsSusan

Documents

MIA MIA SPRING 2017/ 1€¦ · Our vision is of a world where God’s love is shown through loving, respectful, and flourishing relationships. Aim & Purpose: ... Answering Children’s