Welcome to "Frank's News" - a community newsletter for our St Francis College friends and supporters.

December 2025

Contents

In this edition, you’ll find updates, resources, and upcoming events.

• The David Binns Memorial Lecture – A reflection on this significant event

• Formation Update – Highlights from the final intensive for formation students

• Exploring Autism, Worship, and Spirituality – Upcoming workshop and lecture in 2026

• Thinking about Study in 2026? - What you need to know

• Young Adult Ministry – Meet our newest staff member

• Roscoe Library Matters - New Books and Christmas Closing Times

• FormEdFaith and innerVIVID – New video releases for innerVIVID

• Containers for Change – Donate your cans to support AYCF initiatives

• Escape to Tranquility – Discover Pointro Campsite at Boonah

Frank’s News Editorial

by Adam Couchman

This month at St. Francis College, we gathered for our end-of-year thanksgiving and valedictory service; a time to reflect upon the year that has been and look ahead to the one to come. Archbishop Jeremy Greaves presided over the Eucharist on this occasion and shared a heartfelt and timely sermon. Timely, because the Anglican Church worldwide is asking profound questions about the kind of church we are and the kind of church we aspire to be.

Archbishop Jeremy’s words were prophetic, calling our community to be a beacon of hope for a church and a world seeking answers:

“Because we are living in a time when theology is not only debated but weaponised, where some voices speak with an increasing stridency that can make it sound as though their narrow interpretation is the only faithful one left standing. These voices speak with great certainty, but often with little curiosity; they command obedience, but seldom invite conversation; they call their views “biblical,” but leave little room for the breadth, depth, and generosity of the Anglican tradition.

And let us be very clear: these voices must not go unchallenged.

Not because we enjoy conflict. Not because we want to win arguments. But because the Gospel entrusted to us is too rich, too expansive, too hopeful to be squeezed into the tight frameworks of fear-based theology.”

In some places, theological education has been overshadowed by suspicion—leaders questioning the quality or even the orthodoxy of the curriculum. In stark contrast, Archbishop Jeremy offered trust and encouragement. His vision was of a college that is not only a place of learning but a community where curiosity is welcomed, conversations are honest and generous, and humility in theology is practised.

The Anglican world faces many challenges, particularly here in Australia, where loud voices often push agendas that are exclusive and restrictive. At St Francis College, we are committed to shaping a church that reflects the breadth and beauty of the Gospel; a place where difference is embraced, orthodoxy is generous, and theological education follows the example of Christ, who was just as comfortable answering questions from religious leaders as he was dining with the very people they chose to exclude.

As we close this liturgical year and begin a new one, shaped once more around the life of Christ, we invite you to bring your curiosity into the conversation. Explore the many opportunities at St Francis College; formal study, spiritual formation, workshops, public lectures, our library collection, and much, much more. May your curiosity guide you into the wide spaces of God’s truth, where the Gospel is rich enough to nourish, expansive enough to embrace, and hopeful enough to transform.

The David Binns Memorial Lecture

St Francis College hosted the David Binns Memorial in the first week of November in which Associate Professor Peter Kline traced the connections between art, and spirituality, with a special focus on the Australian novel Infinite Splendours by Sofie Laguna, which tells a story of childhood trauma and visual art. Using Jean Laplanche's psychoanalytic theory, Peter explored how art emerges from and transformatively restages the fundamental enigma that makes us human—our relation to disturbing otherness.

At the end of the lecture, Peter unveiled a painting (see below) he had just completed, using the book for inspiration.

Over 30 people registered for the lecture, with a good mix of in-person and online attendees. The topic generated strong interest and engagement. Peter offered this powerful reflection:

"Art and ethics, or, creativity and responsibility, are both uniquely human undertakings in which we “open up” something in existence beyond our biological determination. The question is, what is this excess and where does it come from? Why do human beings deviate from biological determinism, or why does our biology get over-determined from the start, making us into creatures capable of the best and the worst, capable of love and cruelty, creativity and destruction? And why does the line between the best and the worst run through every human heart?"

If you missed the lecture or would like to watch it again, the recording is now available on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/U4WgZjgBhBg

Formation Update

by Bishop Denise Ferguson

The 14th, 15th & 16th November saw the end of a busy and fruitful Formation year. Once again, the Lego (see image below) was out for all to ‘play’ with. The symbolism being that ministry is a little like Lego, you begin with disparate pieces, never quite know what the result will look like. The result this weekend being an inclusive church plant; a congregation worshipping together, a food pantry, an offering of hospitality, and there was even a seashell font reminding us of our baptismal calling.

Each Formation Intensive has had a theme throughout the year, Novembers being ‘Endings and Beginnings.’

In addition to learning more about the practicalities of payroll, AINFIN, HR etc, both Bishop Sarah and Bishop John spent time with students talking about their experience of Formation, and the intricacies of life in stipendiary ministry.

On Saturday, the incoming 2026 Formation students joined the 2025 students for the day. The day began with a service of Welcome, prepared by the year 2 & 3 students and set the scene for some new relationship building in preparation for 2026.

On Sunday morning the 2025 students gathered for a Theological Reflection on the year, based around a quote by Brazilian Author Paul Coelho. This quote was introduced at the first Formation Intensive in February.

“Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t really you, so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place.”

Following the Reflection, students gathered in the Chapel for worship prepared by the year 1 students. They had prepared a very moving service of Farewell and Blessing for the three ordinands, Allana Wales, Eleanor Whereat and Harry McGuire. Stoles were blessed, prayers individual to each ordinand were prayed and gifts were given.

Following a celebration lunch, the Formation Intensive concluded with the Valedictory Service & celebration.

Exploring Autism, Worship, and Spirituality

Autistic [1] and non-autistic people often experience the world in profoundly different ways. These differences can include how individuals respond to sensory input, communicate, and process information. Yet, our society—and the church—are typically structured around non-autistic preferences and needs. This often leaves autistic people feeling excluded from spaces that should be welcoming and inclusive.

On 13 February 2026, we invite you to join us for two unique opportunities to explore these issues and consider how faith communities can respond with understanding and grace.

The day starts at St Francis College with a morning workshop (starting at 9:30am) called Worship Through the Lens of Autism. This session will look at some of the differences between autistic and non-autistic experiences and why worship spaces can sometimes feel excluding for autistic and other neurodivergent people. Attendees will explore practical ideas and theological reflections that can help churches become more welcoming and inclusive for everyone.

In the evening (at 6:00pm), the conversation continues at St Mark’s Anglican Church, The Gap, with Autistic Spirituality: Authentically Against the Grain. People might assume that autistic individuals are less naturally spiritual—or even unable to experience spirituality. But that’s far from the truth. Instead, many autistic people describe having a deep and meaningful spiritual life. This evening event will share insights from conversations with over 30 autistic people, highlighting what makes autistic spirituality distinctive and how it challenges common assumptions.

Both events will be led by Dr Léon van Ommen, Senior Lecturer in Practical Theology at the University of Aberdeen and Co-Director of the Centre for Autism and Theology. His research focuses on autism and spirituality, with a particular interest in listening to those most excluded, such as non-speaking autistic people and autistic people in ethnically minoritised communities.

Whether you attend one or both, we hope you will join us in learning how to make our worship and communities more welcoming for all.

Booking Details:

• Worship through the lens of Autism - https://www.trybooking.com/DGMKO

• Autistic Spirituality: Authentically Against the Grain - https://www.trybooking.com/DGMKU

Footnotes:

1. Identity-first language is used here, following the preferences of self-advocates who describe autism as being a valuable and inherent part of their identity. There are strong preferences in the community about language and autism. While many prefer identity-first language (autistic person), others prefer person-first language (person with autism). We honour each individual's rights to have their identity and experience described in the way that is authentic for them.

Thinking About Study in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know

Are you planning to dive deeper into theology or explore the ministry of spiritual direction next year? Now’s the perfect time to start the conversation.

Spiritual Direction Formation Program

Feeling called to walk alongside others on their spiritual journey? Applications for all our Spiritual Direction Formation Programs close on 23 January 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith and equip yourself for meaningful ministry.

👉 Start your application here: https://stfran.qld.edu.au/spiritual-direction-application

Study at St Francis College

If you’re thinking about studying in 2026, applications close on 13 February 2026. New students will meet with a course advisor to make sure your chosen course fits your goals; it is advisable to allow at least a week before applications close for this process.

Already studying with us? Just make sure your re-enrolment and unit selection are done before the deadline.

👉 Explore your options: https://stfran.qld.edu.au/study-options
👉 Ready to apply? Contact Linda Burridge: (07) 3514 7403 or registrar@ministryeducation.org.au

Join us in 2026 to explore new ideas, discover your calling, and deepen your faith.

Young Adult Ministry

by Jordan Cuskelly

My name is Jordan Cuskelly and it’s such a pleasure to be able to work in Young Adults Ministry within the Anglican Church here in Brisbane. 

I’ve got a strong history with youth in the Anglican Church, being involved in the Ichthus camps in many capacities. I also ran a youth group at Waterloo Bay for 2 years.

Being a young adult is such a tricky part of life to navigate. I’m looking forward to using my role to meet young adults where they are and give opportunities for community, guidance and purpose during such a pivotal life stage. To keep everyone connected and informed, we’ll be using Instagram and TikTok to share what we’re doing, what’s coming up, and more. Follow us on:

• Instagram: @youngadultministry.anglican

• TikTok: @youngadults.anglican

I’d love to hear from you! Your ideas, questions, and feedback are always welcome. Feel free to reach out anytime at:

jordan.cuskelly@anglicanchurchsq.org.au

Looking forward to connecting.

Roscoe Library Matters

2025 ANZTLA Conference

I am currently attending the Australian and New Zealand Theological Library Association Conference which is being held at The Women’s College at the University of Queensland. The theme of the conference is Echoes of the past … creating stories for the future. When a speaker needed to pull out just a few weeks ago, I offered to fill the 15-minute spot by sharing some of Mr Roscoe’s story. One anecdote describes how he drew on the work of Einstein, Newton, Aquinas, Garrigou-Lagrange and ancient Biblical texts to offer something rich and accessible for others who followed. As part of the conference, there is an opportunity to welcome some of the delegates to the Roscoe Library for their first visit, so there’s a display set up of artefacts that illustrate his story. Please drop in and have a look if you’re nearby.

New books!

These books are new to our library during November. Would you like to borrow? Register here.

Roscoe Library closure over Christmas/New Year

The Roscoe Library will be closed from 4:30pm on Friday 19 December until 9:30am on Monday 12 January. We have books that would be of interest to most family members and can arrange for extended loans if needed. We hope to see you soon!

FormEdFaith and innerVIVID

by Fiona Hammond

Hey, do you believe in “soulmates”? The Diocesan FormEdFaith team have just released theme 5 of innerVIVID: the project that likes to ask questions and listen to the answers. Theme 5 is all called “Tomorrow?” and drills deep into ideas about fate, destiny and what might happen tomorrow. Is there a plan? How do we know? Is everything random? Does it even matter?

To watch the videos and join the conversation, check out

Theme 5: Tomorrow? — innerVIVID

To find more questions on this theme, grab a deck of ASKaround cards, so you can play at home, in the car, while camping, over zoom… get them here!

Containers for Change – Support AYCF!

When you drop off your eligible cans, bottles, and other recyclables through Containers for Change, you can choose to have the proceeds donated to the Anglican Youth Children and Families (AYCF) ministry. It’s a simple way to support meaningful work while caring for the environment. Just use AYCF’s scheme ID (C11657749) when you return your containers!

Escape to Tranquility: Pointro Campsite at Boonah

Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Pointro Campsite offers a back to basics camping experience on the banks of Maroon Dam in Queensland. Enjoy spacious sites, firepits, hot showers, and clean toilets — great for fishing, hiking, water sports and much more. Ideal for families, friends, and group retreats. Our bunkhouse sleeps up to 36 and is great for youth camps.

Book now on Hipcamp or email pointro@anglicanchurchsq.org.au for bunkhouse bookings.