Contents
In this edition of Frank's News:
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Frank’s News Editorial – January 2025
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the January edition of the Frank’s News. I hope that the summer season provides some time for rest and recreation for you. I know that as we come to the end of another busy year, I am looking forward to a change of pace for a little while. One of the things I love to do is to read. I am looking forward to the summer Sunday afternoon “Reading with Spiritual Eyes” Roscoe Library book club meeting, when participants will be invited to talk about a book that they have read and would like to reflect on with others. Amongst books I have read recently, I will need to choose between Trent Dalton’s Boy Swallows Universe and Lola in the Mirror and Gabbie Stroud’s The Things that Matter Most. Each of these books invites us to reflect on how we are formed as humans, families and communities in our Australian contexts. During the summer I will also catch up on some of the films that Jonathan Sargeant has reviewed Films & TV. If you have not already done so, you might like to check out the online resources the FormEdFaith team, Jonathan and Fiona have produced. You may like to invite someone to do the ATP Certificate which involves viewing the short courses. Watch out for the launch of the first theme of InnerVivid material and the full deck of ASK AROUND cards.
In 2025 Anglican Youth, Children’s and Family Ministry (AYCF) will focus on resourcing and supporting parish-based youth and children’s ministry and the regular newsletter and website will reflect this. There will not be any Ichthus camps in 2025 while the camping ministry is reviewed, however there are several events for youth, children and families on the calendar Events — AYCF. The first of these, will be a Family Day on Saturday January 18 at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. With many dedicated young youth leaders involved in AYCF programs, there will be more than one Young Adult Weekend Retreat to provide opportunities for young adults in the Diocese to gather and grow in faith and as disciples of Christ. This first of these is on February 14-16, registration details can be found here AYCF.
If you would like to explore how to deepen your spiritual life and discern whether you have a calling to spiritual direction you may like to consider enrolling in the one year Art of Contemplative Listening Course The Art of Contemplative Listening — Saint Francis College.
The 2025 timetable for the University of Divinity units taught at St Francis College is available and more information about the upcoming units can be found here Upcoming units — Saint Francis College. Enrolments are open for the Diploma of Theology, Bachelor of Theology, Graduate Certificate in Divinity, Graduate Diploma in Divinity and Masters of Divinity, as well as the newly approved Graduate Diploma in Pastoral and Spiritual Care. It is also possible to “audit” units, which involves receiving all the class materials, without needing to do any of the assessments. Please contact our registrar, Linda Burridge for more information about enrolment (registrar@ministryeducation.org.au) and our Academic Dean, Dr Adam Couchman for course advice. If interested in extending your theological studies enrolling in a Masters of Theology involves coursework as well as providing the opportunity of writing a minor thesis. Please contact our Research Co-ordinator, Associate Professor Peter Kline if you would like to discuss research interests and possible dissertation topics.
As we move through Christmas into the season of Epiphany, may you experience the light of Christ in your lives and the revelation of God’s goodness and love in your hearts.
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Congratulations
This year we have awarded three Ivor Church Bursaries for postgraduate research. Updated information about this bursary is on our website, with applications due on November 30 each year. We congratulate:
- The Rev’d Sharon Mitchell who has been accepted into the University of Divinity Doctor of Professional Practice Program starting in February 2025, and receives an Ivor Church Bursary (Category 1: Doctoral Studies) to cover the student fees.
- The Rev’d Lynette Kareta who receives the inaugural Category 2 Ivor Church Bursary, which provides a half scholarship for enrolment in the Graduate Certificate of Research Methodology with the University of Divinity.
- The Rev’d Loretta Tyler-Moss who has been accepted into the Canterbury Course in February 2025 for recently ordained clergy from across the Anglican Communion, and receives an Ivor Church Bursary (Category 3: Overseas course or conference) to facilitate her attendance.
- Congratulations to the Rev’d Zoë Browne who has received a High Distinction for her Masters of Theology Dissertation “Performing Joel: Re-Imagining the Prophetic Story in New Times.”
- Congratulations to Paul Alcorn, Ally Bray, Fionn Griegg, Kevin Lapthorn and Rachel Tew who will join Juliet Briner, Troy Bullock, Harry McGuire, Arian Miller, Allana Wales, and Eleanor Whereat in the Ordained Ministry Formation Programme 2025.
- Congratulations to Allana Wales who will be senior student for the formation group and student representative on the Academic Committee of St Francis College.
- Congratulations to Richard Butler, Lydia Fairhall, Sara Hanson, Kate Littman-Kelly, Matt Siggins, and Lavinia (Nia) Viviani ordained deacon; and Lynette Kareta and Courtney Smith ordained priest on Saturday December 7. Let us pray for them in this new season of ministry.
- Congratulations to the Ven Dr Anne van Gend who has been elected to be the next Bishop of Dunedin. Anne is an alumni of St Francis College as she completed a Masters of Theology with the Brisbane College of Theology. More information is here:
New bishop-elect appointed | Otago Daily Times Online News
Anne van Gend elected Bishop of Dunedin - Anglican Ink © 2024
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AYCF Family Day
Mark your calendars for 18 January 2025! AYCF is hosting an exciting day filled with games, activities, and relaxation at the park and beach. Bring your friends and family for a day of fun in the sun (hopefully), and let's make some unforgettable memories together at Kurrawa park.
Registration Link: https://www.aycf.org.au/register
Don't miss out on this fantastic and fun event! See you there! 
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Merry Christmas from the staff of St Francis College!
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, may His love and peace fill your hearts. We are grateful to journey with you in faith and learning. Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joyous Christmas!
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Exciting News! We're Now on Instagram!
Stay connected with us and be the first to know about our latest updates, events, and more. Follow us on Instagram for inspiring content and community highlights.
📸 Follow us - St Francis College (@stfranciscollegemilton) • Instagram photos and videos
We can't wait to connect with you!
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The Year That Was: 2024 in Review
January
- Assoc. Prof. Peter Kline Presents at Bonhoeffer Congress
Peter Kline presented at the International Bonhoeffer Congress, themed Crisis and Hope: Reading Bonhoeffer Today. His paper, Without God, Within the Sky: The Religionless Ethics of an Animate Weather World, offered an ecological reading of Bonhoeffer’s late prison theology, emphasizing encounters with God “in the midst of life.”
February
- In February, an overnight storm caused severe flooding in the Spiritual Direction offices. Water infiltrated two levels of Old Bishopsbourne, resulting in significant damage. Unfortunately, the grand piano in the function room was written off due to the extent of the water damage. If you would like to help with the repair costs and maintenance of Old Bishopsbourne, please consider making a donation here. Donations over $2 are tax-deductible. Your support is greatly appreciated!
May
- Public Lecture - Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh
Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh, founder and director of the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability, delivered a lecture on the environmental impact of occupation and military conflict in Palestine. The event took place at Old Bishopsbourne and highlighted the intersection of environmental and social justice issues.
- 2024 Felix Arnott Lecture - Rev'd Dr Joan Riley
Dr Joan Riley, Principal of St Barnabas College, presented the Felix Arnott Lecture on Scripture and Silence in a Context of Domestic and Family Violence. The lecture, held during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, explored the role of scripture in addressing and understanding domestic violence.
- St Francis College Open Day - Garry Deverell
The Rev’d Dr Garry Deverell, Academic Dean and Lecturer in Indigenous Studies, shared his expertise at the St Francis College Open Day. His presentation, Communion in Country: Aboriginal ways to embrace the paschal spirituality of Christ, drew connections between Western liturgical practices and Aboriginal spirituality.
July
- Attended TSXPO
For the first time ever, St Francis College exhibited at the Brisbane Tertiary Studies and Careers Expo (TSXPO) at the Brisbane Showgrounds on July 13 and 14. The event, which ran from 10am to 4pm, provided a fantastic opportunity for school-leavers and those planning a career move to explore a wide range of study options, career opportunities, and new trends in further education, training, and employment. The expo catered to first-time students as well as those looking to continue their education.
- An Exploration of Atonement with The Ven. Dr Anne van Gend
On Friday, 19 July, the Ven. Dr Anne van Gend engaged in a thoughtful conversation with The Rev'd Canon Nicki Colledge about Anne's book, Restoring the Story: The Good News of Atonement. The event was an informal chat between friends, offering insights into Anne's exploration of atonement. Attendees had the chance to hear from Anne, ask questions, get their books signed, and enjoy light refreshments. The gathering provided a wonderful opportunity for connection and discussion.
August
- Open Day on August 31, 2024
St Francis College hosted an Open Day, inviting prospective students to explore study options, engage with teaching staff, and hear from guest speakers. The event included campus tours, student testimonials, and a keynote address by The Rev’d Dr Garry Deverell.
October
- St Francis Day
The college celebrated St Francis Day with various activities, including a special service, community outreach programs, and a festive gathering to honor the patron saint of the college.
November
- Commissioning of Adam and Linda
The commissioning of Adam and Linda was one of the highlights of the End of Year Celebration. The service featured speeches, the presentation of awards, and singers from the North Pine Anglican Church. It was a wonderful way to conclude the academic year. Following the service, everyone gathered at Old Bishopsbourne for refreshments, making it a memorable and joyous occasion.
Throughout the year, the college also offered the Anglican Theology and Practice Certificate, providing comprehensive theological education and practical ministry training. This program equipped students with the knowledge and skills needed for effective ministry and leadership within the Anglican tradition.
This year has been filled with enriching events, insightful lectures, and significant milestones, reflecting our commitment to theological education and community engagement. We look forward to continuing this journey together in the coming year.
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Liturgical Resources for Aboriginal Sunday 19 January 2025 and Australia Day Sunday 26 January.
In 2025, January 26 falls on a Sunday and I would like to recommend some resources that might be helpful. Common Grace recommends marking Aboriginal Sunday the Sunday before “Australia Day” which is January 19, 2025. It is possible to sign up to receive resources developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christian Leaders, on the theme of ‘Defiant Hope’, here: Aboriginal Sunday 2025 - Common Grace. There is an existing collection of prayers related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice here: Pray - Common Grace, that could be used on either January 19 or January 26.
The Anglican Board of Mission has a collection of prayers under the theme of reconciliation:
Prayers for Reconciliation - ABM Anglican Board of Mission. The NAIDOC Week Resources prepared by The Rev’d Canon Auntie Di Langham are also a great resource for January 2025:
NAIDOC Week Resources - ABM Anglican Board of Mission. This includes the words for the hymn “When will it be that sorrow will end” written by Elizabeth Smith in 2019, in which the fourth verse begins with “When will the First Nations voices be heard?”.
There are several hymns in Together in Song that might be appropriate for January 26.
672 Lord of earth and all creation – by Thwaites, verse 2 acknowledges People of the Ancient Dreamtime
135 All things bright and beautiful - includes Australian landscapes and animal references
188 Where wide sky rolls down and touches red earth – by Elizabeth Smith
Amongst those written by First Nations communities:
253 O Lord Jesus Marrkapmir (Arnhem land)
383 Joyful the morning (Lockhart River, Torres Strait Islands)
There are also suitable songs in the All Together series
All Together OK 356: Take this sand, take this snow, Coopers Creek to Omeo by John Beavis. The chorus starts with “Ancient people, people new.”
All Together Whatever 433: You were in this place by Robin Mann
All Together Whatever 494: For You, deep stillness by Julie Perrin & Robin Mann
Children’s books that might be appropriate to read during a Children’s Talk include Finding our Heart: A Story about the Uluru Statement for Young Australians by Thomas Mayor and illustrated by Blak Douglas, and Sorry Sorry illustrated and written by Anne Kerr.
Prepared by Ruth Mathieson, December 2024.
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Birth to Death: Life, Loss, and Liturgy (DL3001Z)
Do you want to explore liturgies and their preparation? This unit includes an exploration of liturgical expressions to mark moments across the lifespan beyond the services found in the prayer book such as for thanksgiving for the birth of a child, marriages and funerals. It provides an opportunity to consider the principles of preparing liturgies for various occasions and pastoral situations.
Enrol to study From Birth to Death: Life, Loss, and Liturgy (DL3001Z) at St Francis College now!
This subject is available to be audited or can form part of a degree, diploma or certificate. Flexible Study Modes are available.
Humans develop and grow through many different life-stages from pregnancy to death, each of which calls for theological reflection and liturgical response. The church celebrates and marks these life-processes through its liturgical life which has developed over time and will continue to respond to the changing ways that communities and individuals engage with their faith. In this unit, these key liturgical moments will be explored theologically and practically. Students will have an opportunity to develop skills in writing and leading liturgy for the church as it engages with and celebrates the life of its members.
Find out more information: https://www.stfran.qld.edu.au/dl3001z-dl9031z-from-birth-to-death-life-loss-and-liturgy. To enrol as an auditing student or in a tertiary program please contact our Registrar, Linda Burridge at registrar@ministryeducation.org.au or 35147403.
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DL3001Z/DL9031Z - From Birth to Death
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Subjects in 2025
Are you:
- interested in studying theology including Biblical Studies, Church History or Mission & Ministry?
- looking to upskill and advance your professional development?
- wanting to explore, understand and strengthen your faith?
We have an exciting and diverse range of units on offer for you to study at SFC in Semester 1 2025! All units are available to be audited or can form part of a degree, diploma or certificate through the University of Divinity. Flexible Study Modes are available. Here are the units we've got on the way:
Biblical Studies
Church History
Mission & Ministry
Systematic Theology
For more information or to have a chat about what course would suit you, please contact our Registrar, Linda Burridge on (07) 3514 7403 or registrar@ministryeducation.org.au
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Roscoe Library new items … 2024
Use this link to take you to items added to the Roscoe Library during 2024. Such a breadth of resources! Click on the titles to reveal more information and move to the next 20 items by using the arrow in the centre top. You cannot break the catalogue, so have a play and see what you discover; you may be surprised! Note that some of these resources are electronic, so you’ll need to log in to borrow these.
Just a reminder: if you are a member of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland (ACSQ), whether that be as a parishioner or employed in an ACSQ agency or school, you may become a member of the Roscoe Library at St Francis College at no charge. Click on register in the top right-hand corner.
Reading with Spiritual Eyes Book Club
Let’s talk books! The Reading with Spiritual Eyes book club is open to all. We’re planning to gather face-to-face on Sunday 9 February from 2:30pm in Lecture Room 1; refreshments will be provided. On this occasion, instead of us all reading the same book, we will each talk about a book that we’ve been reading recently that we would recommend to the group. We can talk about why we chose to read the book, why we are recommending it, what we thought of the author’s writing style, what were the main themes etc. There will be opportunities for comments and questions. If you’ve not read any books recently, but would like to hear what others are reading, please come along … we’d love your company! For catering and set-up purposes, please register to let us know if you’ll be attending; thank you.
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Here are some of the new books that you can borrow from the Roscoe Library:
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Roscoe staff and volunteers 2024
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AYCF Ichthus Ministry Vision Day Report
On Saturday, 9th of November, the Ichthus Ministry Vision Day was held at St Francis College, Milton. In their September meeting, the Anglican Youth, Children & Families (AYCF) Advisory Committee made the recommendation to suspend the Ichthus Camping Ministry in 2025 for several reasons. In response, it was decided to host a Vision Day to hear feedback and suggestions directly from members of the Ichthus community before acting on the recommendation.
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Administration Hours Christmas- New Years
As we get closer to the joyous season of Christmas, we wanted to inform you about our administration hours during this period. Please note the following schedule:
- Tuesday, 24 December 2024: 9:00am - 1:00pm
- Christmas Day, 25 December 2024: Closed
- Boxing Day, 26 December 2024: Closed
- Friday, 27 December 2024: Closed
- Monday, 30 December 2024: Closed
- Tuesday, 31 December 2024: 10:00am - 2:00pm
- New Year’s Day, 1 January 2025: Closed
- Thursday, 2 January 2025: 10:00am - 2:00pm
- Friday, 3 January 2025: 10:00am- 2:00pm
The Roscoe Library
The library will close for the year at 4:30pm Friday 20 December 2024 and will re-open for business 9:30am Monday 13 January 2025.
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Clergy Summer School
Date: 13-15 January 2025
Where: The Southport School
This summer, while many clergy are on holiday, take the opportunity for lifelong learning and worship in a relaxed setting with fellow clergy. The 2025 School will focus on understanding and addressing trauma within our congregations and ourselves. Discover effective ways to minimize trauma and promote healing.
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Accommodation Available at St Francis College
We currently have single rooms with shared facilities available for rent at St Francis College. These rooms are ideal for students over 18. To apply, please contact the Business Manager at rod.mengel@anglicanchurchsq.org.au.
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Getaways and Event Spaces
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Escape to Tranquility: Pointro Campsite at Boonah
Need a break from the daily grind of city life? Try out our Diocese’s Pointro Campsite at Boonah.
Pointro Campsite offers affordable accommodation, spectacular views, lots of water activity options, hot showers, a friendly onsite manager and a tranquil place to relax.
- There is a roomy bunkhouse, which has been fitted with a new gas stove and has free satellite TV, a huge kitchen, plenty of hot water, a games room and more.
- There are also eight well-spaced-out campsites with stunning outlooks.
- You can enjoy the open-air chapel where you can see the water from different directions from the pews. It is a peaceful spot to sit and contemplate, to pray or to worship with others.
- Experience the beautiful waterhole, complete with waterfall, which is large enough for swimming.
Because of the peacefulness, the campsite is the perfect place for parishes and ministries to enjoy fellowship time or go on retreat or pilgrimage.
Want to know more? Read the anglican focus article 'How's the serenity?'
For bunkhouse bookings, please email pointro@anglicanchurchsq.org.au.
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Old Bishopsbourne
Are you planning a corporate or private function such as a family reunion, workshop, wedding or community event in 2025? Have you considered using the gracious Old Bishopsbourne? This heritage-listed building is equipped with WiFi and lecture facilities, has a fully functional kitchen and is surrounded by beautiful spacious grounds. It has flexible seating for 60; and features a number of breakout configurations. For more information, please contact Rod.
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Contact
Please use the email addresses below to contact SFC Staff:
Ruth Mathieson - Executive Director/Principal
✉️ ruth.mathieson@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Rod Mengel - Property & Finance Manager
✉️ rod.mengel@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Linda Burridge - Registrar
✉️ registrar@ministryeducation.org.au
Adam Couchman - Academic Dean
✉️ adam.couchman@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Peter Kline - Research Co-ordinator
✉️ pkline@ministryeducation.org.au
Eve James - Library Manager
✉️ ejames@ministryeducation.org.au
Jonathan Sargeant - FormEdFaith
✉️ jonathans@ministryeducation.org.au
Dale Keenan - Spiritual Direction
✉️ dkeenan@ministryeducation.org.au
Elissa Cotroneo - AYCF (Anglican Youth, Children and Families)
✉️ elissa.cotroneo@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Tim Coates - Administration/Reception
✉️ enquiries@ministryeducation.org.au
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