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Welcome to "Frank's News" - a community newsletter for our St Francis College friends and supporters.
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Editorial Program Director of Indigenous Theological Studies St Francis Day Celebration Formal Signing Agreement From Birth to Death: Life, Loss and Liturgy What’s On Semester 1, 2027 Timetable Roscoe Library Matters World Mental Health Day - Bring and Share Morning Tea Ivor Church Bursary Applications Growing Ministry through GFS Grants Staff Updates Pointro Campsite
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Frank’s News Editorialby Ruth Mathieson Dear Readers I am enjoying the Jacaranda colour around St Francis College knowing that it is important to appreciate the moment as soon the flowering will finish. In Adelaide, where I have spent much of my life, the jacarandas and agapanthus come out in December and provide appropriate Advent colour while heralding the summer holidays. I have learned that in this part of the world jacaranda flowers herald that exam time is near when senior school and university students are put to the test, prior to the end of year celebrations. You are welcome to join the St Francis College community for the End of Year Valedictory and Thanksgiving service on the afternoon of Sunday, 15 November. During November at St Francis College we mark both endings and new beginnings. For example, as we come to the end of the academic year, there is an opportunity to come and hear about the work being done by our research students. If interested in beginning a program of research and writing a minor, masters or doctoral thesis, please have a conversation with our Research Coordinator, Associate Professor Peter Kline and note that the applications for the Ivor Church Bursaries close on 30 November. For those of you involved in youth and children's ministry in parishes, please note that GFS has grants and study bursaries available for 2027 and applications for these also close on 30 November. You may also be interested in attending a monthly Pass It On gathering or signing up for the AYCF (Anglican Youth Children and Families) newsletter. Ritti Kagi, from Yeronga Parish, is the new Young Adult Ministry Coordinator for the Diocese. This halftime position with a dedicated focus on ministry with and to Young Adults (18-30 year olds) was established last year and Jordan Cuskelly was commissioned in November 2025. I am very grateful that while in the role Jordan set up an Instagram page, organised regular YA Social and YA Spiritual Evenings on Thursdays and did all the initial planning for the YA Retreat (27-29 November). Ritti takes up this ministry and work with the Rev'd Ann Edwards in leading the retreat. If you would like to invite or sponsor any young adults there are still spaces available, however please note that applications for the YA Retreat close on Monday, 16 November. The Reverend Christopher Waterhouse will deliver the David Binns Memorial Lecture on Monday, 9 November. He will explore the work of two artists, Nicholas Mynheer and Roger Wagner, with a focus on The Empty Tomb, an original work by Nicholas Mynheer from his own collection. Roscoe Library staff are excited to launch a new activity, Let’s Talk Resources! and the first of these will be on Tuesday, 17 November with a focus on preparing for the Year of Mark. On Tuesday, 10 November there is an Information Evening for anyone interested in our Spiritual Direction Formation programs, and it is possible to download application forms. The timetable for semester one is now available and the process of enrolling in University of Divinity courses can now begin. The Rev'd Dr Garry Deverell has been appointed as Program Director of Indigenous Theological Studies from the beginning of next year. We are grateful to the Wandiligong Indigenous Ministry Fund in partnering with the Anglican Church Southern Queensland to ensure that this is a full-time position. We offer at least one unit of Indigenous Theological Study each semester, and I encourage you to think about enrolling or auditing these courses. Blessings as we move through the celebration of All Saints, commemorate All Souls and prepare for the season of Advent,
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Program Director of Indigenous Theological StudiesThe Rev’d Canon Dr Garry Deverell has been appointed as the Program Director of Indigenous Theological Studies at St Francis College, University of Divinity, starting in 2027.
The St Francis College Indigenous Theological Studies Program will focus on Indigenising theological teaching, providing a culturally safe and supportive pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students into tertiary theological studies. The program will also introduce non-Indigenous students to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, equipping them with a basic level of cultural competency for ecclesial leadership on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander country. A recognised Aboriginal scholar and liturgist, Garry is well-qualified for this role. A Trawloolway man from northern Trouwerner/Tasmania, Garry is active in the leadership of both Six Rivers Aboriginal Corporation and the Tasmanian Regional Aboriginal Communities Alliance. Amongst Garry’s publications are Contemplating Country: More Gondwana Theology (2023) and Gondwana Theology: A Trawloolway Man Reflects on Christian Faith (2018). A graduate of the University of Tasmania, the Melbourne College of Divinity and Monash University, Dr Deverell has taught at Pilgrim Theological College, Trinity College Theological School and Whitley College within the University of Divinity. A longtime member and contributor to the Australian Academy of Liturgy, Garry has made significant contributions to sacramental studies, especially insofar as sacraments intersect with the formation of human selves in community. His more recent research has turned towards theologising the experience of Indigenous peoples in and around the Christian churches. Dr Deverell is an elected member of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council, and deputy chair of the National Indigenous Ecumenical Council of Australia. He co-founded the School of Indigenous Studies within the University of Divinity and was its Academic Dean from inception to the School’s disestablishment in 2024.
The Principal of St Francis College, the Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson says: “I am delighted that Dr Deverell will bring this expertise, experience and connectedness to the College’s commitment to theological education on this land now called Australia. I am also deeply grateful to the Wandiligong Indigenous Ministry Fund in partnering with the Anglican Church Southern Queensland in co-funding this fulltime position for the first seven years of the program.”
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Publication: Contemplating CountryThe Rev’d Dr Garry Deverell and The Rev’d Dr Adam Couchman have contributed an article in the latest edition of Uniting Church Studies. Their piece takes the form of a conversation on Garry’s book, Contemplating Country. Links: |
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St Francis Day CelebrationThis year’s St Francis Day celebration held special significance as we marked the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St Francis, commemorating his death and entry into eternal life. Our Eucharist was presided over by +Godfrey Fryar with Matthew Beckmann preaching. Matthew's reflection brought St Francis vividly into the present, challenging us to consider how his example of humility, peace and care for creation continues to speak to our world today. The intercessions by Nicholas Whereat were equally compelling, giving voice to both the hopes and struggles of our contemporary world. We extend our thanks to Fr Michael Faragher for sharing his musical gifts with us. Following the service, the celebration continued at Old Bishopsbourne, where students, staff, alumni and friends gathered for refreshments and conversation. It was a delight to share fellowship together and to honour the enduring legacy of St Francis in such a joyful and welcoming setting.
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from left to right: Juliet Briner, Nicholas Whereat, Matthew Beckmann, Bishop Godfrey Fryar, Br Donald |
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Formal Signing Agreementby Adam Couchman. On 9 October, St Francis College celebrated a significant milestone with the signing of an agreement between the Anglican Church of Southern Queensland and the Wandiligong Indigenous Ministry Fund. This exciting partnership will support a new Program Director, Indigenous Theological Studies, commencing in 2027, with Rev Canon Dr Garry Deverell appointed to the role. The day brought together Indigenous leaders, church representatives, College staff and faculty, students, and supporters in a spirit of celebration and hope. Events began with a smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country offered by Aunty Sandra King, before the community gathered in the College Chapel for a special liturgy marking the occasion. The agreement represents a shared commitment to strengthening Indigenous theological education, supporting Indigenous leadership, and deepening the College's contribution to reconciliation and truth-telling. It also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for St Francis College as it continues to foster theological education shaped by the wisdom, voices, and experiences of First Peoples. Rod Mengel, Property & Finance Manager of St Francis College, said, “The Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country gave me goosebumps. I felt so encouraged and grateful to have been part of the journey leading up to the signing and to share in such a significant day.”
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A Smoking Ceremony at the Chapel entrance provided a powerful and moving start to the celebrations. |
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From left to right: Archbishop Jeremy Greaves, Rev’d Canon Dr Ruth Mathieson, Katherine Houghton, Robert Houghton |
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From Birth to Death: Life Loss and Liturgyby Juliet Briner As part of From Birth to Death: Life Loss and Liturgy this semester, lecturer Adam Couchman gave students the opportunity to create an artwork that would accompany a piece of liturgy. Two examples are shown here:
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Juliet writes: During one of our classes Adam drew our attention to an older liturgy from the BCP called the Churching of Women. When I looked at it, I didn’t get much further than the instruction in red (the rubric) that proceeds the liturgy, specifically the words I have underlined - The Woman, at the usual time after her delivery, shall come into the Church decently apparelled, and there shall kneel down in some convenient place, as hath been accustomed, or as the Ordinary shall direct: And then the Priest shall say unto her… For me, the instruction is counter cultural to the way women today want to share their birth experience and talk openly about their bodies. Whether a birth is straight forward or complicated it is traumatic and life changing and those changes are ongoing after the birth as the woman heals and feeds her child. Openly sharing can help a woman process her experience. I felt prescribing how a woman should present to church after birth reflects a former way of thinking about birth and womanhood where we sanitise and hide away real experience because it’s not proper. I have painted a design for a stained-glass window in its ‘cartoon phase’. The design depicts a story from Exodus 1 where the midwives ignore the King of Egypt’s instruction because they fear God. This sentiment is how I want to approach the rubric. I don’t think women should sanitise their experiences. I think they should be allowed to speak freely and openly about their bodies and its function. They should be empowered to do this knowing that God sees them and made them in their own image. I hope the stained-glass design to accompany the liturgy encourages women to openly ignore the rubric and share authentically only limited by their own comfort level. |
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Elise writes: “A chasuble designed for display as part of the annual Service of United Prayer between Anglicans and Roman Catholics (November 4). The design, entitled “Mending the seamless garment of Christ”, expresses the slow labour of pursuing unity where there has been “rending” and division; and the central focus on the Eucharist as the Sacrament of unity expresses the hope of one day sharing in the Feast together.” |
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What’s OnThere’s always something happening at St Francis College. Here’s a glimpse of some of our upcoming events. Student Research Showcaseby Peter Kline On Thursday 5 November, 2-4pm, St Francis will host a Student Research Showcase featuring the research projects currently being undertaken by St Francis students. Please come along and support our students and their fantastic work. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to chat with Peter Kline, our Research Coordinator, about pathways for pursuing research at St Francis College and the University of Divinity. If you are interested in pursuing research, please come along and have a chat. The Student Research Showcase will feature two keynote presentations from Lynette Kareta and Kate Gardiner, and there will be shorter presentations from other research students: Lynette Kareta, What helps Women Leaders to Flourish? Exploring the Organisational Culture of the Anglican Diocese of Brisbane Kate Gardiner, An asexual aromantic reading of Song of Songs: Queering the Tradition Sonia Couchman, Writerly Identity and Religious Curriculum Writing Allana Wales, Inclusion in the Norms of God: Hidden Binaries and Apophatic Theology Liam Carlton-Jones, The Politics of the Gospel of Luke Tini Rimoni, Ecotheology and the Sabbath Jess Grant, The Concept of Vocation in Secular Institutions
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Writing DayWhether you join us in person or online, Writing Day offers dedicated time and space to focus on your writing without the usual distractions. You might be working on research, preparing a sermon, drafting an article, or developing study notes. Whatever your project, you'll be part of a supportive community of writers committed to get words on the page. Set aside time to make progress on your work while enjoying the encouragement and accountability that comes from writing alongside others. Reading the Biblical Languages (RBL)Reading the Biblical Languages (RBL) is an online reading group for those with some experience of Biblical Hebrew or New Testament Greek, offering an opportunity to read and discuss passages from the weekly lectionary in their original languages. Meeting via Zoom on Monday afternoons, the group alternates between Hebrew and Greek texts while providing a supportive and practical way to maintain and develop language skills for study, preaching, and worship. Upcoming DatesBelow is a list of events taking place in November. We would be delighted to hear from you if you would like more information about any of these events. To keep up to date with events at St Francis College, please visit our Upcoming Events page. (5 Nov) Student Research Day (6 Nov) Writing Day (9 Nov) David Binns Memorial Lecture (10 Nov) Spiritual Direction Information Evening (14 Nov) 2026 Trans Christian Allies Breakfast (15 Nov) End of Year Valedictory and Thanksgiving Service (17 Nov) Let’s Talk Resources! Year of Mark (17 Nov) Reading with Spiritual Eyes Book (18 Nov) World Mental Health First Aid Day – Morning Tea (27-29 Nov) Young Adults Retreat
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Semester 1, 2027 TimetablePlanning your studies for the year ahead? The Semester 1, 2027 timetable is now available. Explore the range of units on offer, note important dates, and begin mapping out your learning journey. Whether you are commencing study or continuing towards a qualification, now is the perfect time to see what opportunities await in the coming semester.
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Click on the above timetable to view information about the each of the available units. |
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Roscoe Library Mattersby Eve James
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Let’s Talk Resources!: Year of Mark Let’sTalk Resources! will be a chance to see and borrow recently published resources that are directly relevant to your work, and an opportunity to share ideas with your colleagues about how these might be used. We hope that it will be lively and that you’ll leave inspired! To begin, on Tuesday 17 November, we will gather from 2pm–4pm around the theme Year of Mark. In preparation for Lectionary Year B, the Rev’d Canon Dr Ruth Mathieson will share some reflections on the Gospel of Mark. So, gather your friends, mark your diaries, and please register for catering and set-up purposes. |
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New books! I Can Learn to Be Brave by Mariann Edgar Budde; illustrated by Holly Hatam. From the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, Mariann Edgar Budde, comes a picture book that teaches the smallest readers that no voice is too quiet, no message too small, to have an impact on a friend. Inspired by her adult book How We Learn to Be Brave, Bishop Budde’s words can now be read and held close by readers of all ages. Children are never too young to learn that they can effect change, and this brilliant text, accompanied by gorgeous art by illustrator Holly Hatam, is one that will inspire generations to come. The Lord’s Prayer: A Beginner’s Guide by Stephen Cottrell; illustrated by Jack Seymour. The Lord's Prayer is the most famous prayer of all time. It is said by millions of people every day, and has been for thousands of years. From classroom prayers to coronation services – it is prayed everywhere. But what do we mean when we say it? Taking the prayer line-by-line, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, gives us a guide and introduction to the Lord's Prayer. Beautifully illustrated on every page, this book is perfect for children and families to read together, enjoy and explore. In less than seventy words, Jesus gives us a prayer to learn by heart and shape the way we live. Lord, Teach Us to Pray: Prayer in Pastoral Settings and Guidelines for Good Practice from The Church of England’s Archbishops’ Council, with a foreword by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullaly. Pastoral prayer implies a degree of vulnerability for the person being prayed for; it may also feel vulnerable for those who offer prayer. Praying well with another person who may be distressed, anxious or seeking guidance, is something to keep learning about. Addressing prayer for one another, both formally and informally, Lord, Teach Us to Pray is intended as a resource for churches and local ministry teams. It offers pastoral wisdom and outlines for good practice distilled from the Christian tradition. The European Mind by Bruce Pascoe. Framed by a First Nations philosophy, The European Mind challenges what we think we know about history and picks apart beliefs and truths that sit at the heart of our society. Pascoe proposes meaningful change through shifts in cultural and moral thought, the rebalancing of relationships, demolishing the myth of superiority and a rethinking of capitalism as the only system. The European Mind critiques the ideas behind empire and takes readers on a journey of how we arrived here and where we hope to be. On Priesthood: Servants, Shepherds, Messengers, Sentinels and Stewards by Stephen Cottrell. Messenger, sentinel, steward ... these three words have been used to describe the work of a priest in the Church of England since Cranmer wrote the original ordination rite in 1550. Two more, servant and shepherd, were added in 1980. Taken together, these five metaphors provide a rich and resonant set of ideas through which to explore the nature of Christian ministry. In this short, lyrical book, Bishop Stephen Cottrell explores each one; based on actual addresses given to ordinands on the night before their ordination, it is refreshing, challenging and accessible. Anyone considering ordination or already in ministry will want to read this book for the fascinating exploration of the five metaphors he considers. Not a Priestess: Tales from Beyond the Pulpit by Pippa White. Viral TikTok sensation Pippa White, otherwise known as @not_a_priestess, brings her uniquely candid perspective to life and her vocation to the printed page, with the launch of her memoir. Witty, irreverent, and packed with sharp insight, Not a Priestess moves beyond the curated world of social media and inside the raw, hilarious, and deeply human reality of answering a calling that is anything but conventional. From being hit on by a godfather at a christening, navigating the unique challenges of dating with a dog collar, or facing ethical dilemmas while rocking out at a Lumineers concert, White bridges the gap between the sacred and the everyday. Curating Spaces of Hope: Transformational Leadership for Uncertain Times by Matthew Barber-Rowell. Curating Spaces of Hope explores how individuals and communities work together to shape and contribute to society in uncertain times, through the exploration and development of local leadership practice underpinned by shared values. Expanding on William Temples’ three key social principles for our own times, Matthew Barber-Rowell suggests 'freedom, relationship, service, affect and authenticity' as critical values which are vital in influencing wider society in troubled times. |
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These are some of the resources that have been added over the past few weeks, but this link will take you to all the items that have been added to the Roscoe Library during 2026. Please remember that if you’re a parishioner, a member of the clergy, or you work in an Anglican school or agency, you’re invited to become a member at no cost. The Reading with Spiritual Eyes book club will be discussing It Will Come Back to You: Collected Stories by Sigrid Nunez on 17 November from 5:30pm — 7:00pm, in person and online. Register here to join us as we discuss, for the first time, a collection of short stories!
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World Mental Health First Aid Day – Bring & Share Morning TeaTo mark World Mental Health Day, we're planning a relaxed bring-and-share morning tea at St Francis College. More than 10 million people around the world have been trained in Mental Health First Aid, and we're proud to be part of this growing circle of support. Having the right skills can turn wanting to help someone experiencing a mental health problem into being ready to help. This year's World Mental Health First Aid Day theme is "Ready When It Matters." Our morning tea is an opportunity to step away from the day for a little while, share some food and conversation, connect with the people around us, and take a moment to reflect on the importance of supporting positive mental health and wellbeing in our community. Please bring along something small to share if you can. Homemade or bought is absolutely fine, and there's no expectation to bring anything elaborate. If you have dietary requirements, please feel free to bring something that works for you. Date: Wednesday 18 November Time: 10:15am – 11:30am Location: Old Bishopsbourne, St Francis College, Milton (enter via the main entrance, 29 Baroona Road, Milton) Everyone in the College community is very welcome. We'd love to see you there. Register your attendance World Mental Health Day | Ready When It Matters – Fill out form
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Ivor Church Bursary Applications OpenApplications for the Ivor Church Bursary are now open and will close on 30 November. The bursary provides financial assistance to support theological study and formation. Eligible students are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date. For further information and application details, please contact the College office or visit our website. Growing Ministry Through GFS GrantsGFS Brisbane welcomes applications from parishes for our 2027 Children’s and Youth Ministry grants. Two grants are available for parishes: GFS Children’s and Youth Ministry Training Bursaries — Saint Francis College A $500 grant is available to support the operating costs associated with children’s and youth ministry in parishes. Applications for this grant are due by 30 November 2026. A $1500 grant is also available to support larger, one-off children’s, youth and family ministry events. Applications for this grant can be sent in at any time, prior to the proposed event.
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In October 2026, we said farewell to Jordan Cuskelly (front row, blue shirt), our Young Adults Ministry Facilitator. During his time at St Francis College, he established a dedicated Instagram presence for the ministry, created opportunities for young adults to gather regularly in fellowship, and began planning of a Young Adults Retreat to be held in November. We thank Jordan for his contribution and wish him every blessing for the future. Ritti Kagi has now taken up the role of Young Adults Ministry Facilitator and introduces himself below… |
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Hi everyone! I'm Ritti, the new Young Adults Ministry Facilitator. I'm excited to step into this role and build on the incredible foundation Jordan has established within our Young Adults Ministry. Over the coming months, I look forward to connecting with young adults across the diocese by visiting parishes and getting to know you. I’m also excited to continue our Thursday night Young Adults gatherings in the Common Room and to help create warm and welcoming spaces, both in person and online, where young people can explore life, faith, and community together. When I'm not involved in ministry, you'll usually find me cheering on the Brisbane Lions, watching YouTube, reading my Bible, or enjoying a good conversation about faith. I can't wait to meet you all and be part of what God is doing in the lives of young adults across our diocese! |
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Pointro CampsiteIf you're looking for a peaceful escape, Pointro Campsite offers the perfect retreat. Nestled in a picturesque natural setting, it is quickly becoming a favourite destination for those seeking quiet relaxation, fresh air, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend under the stars or a base from which to explore the surrounding landscape, Pointro Campsite offers an inviting retreat from the busyness of everyday life. To find out more or to book your next camping adventure, visit Pointro Campsite online. |
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Jazz meets church music... and the results might surprise you. If you'd like Fr Michael Faragher to visit your parish or group, get in touch to discuss a presentation. |
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Godly Play Core TrainingInterested in nurturing faith through story, wonder and reflection? The Godly Play Core Training, to be held at Matthew Flinders Anglican College, Buderim, from 7-9 December 2026, offers an immersive three-day experience in the principles and practice of Godly Play. Participants will learn storytelling techniques, explore the role of the prepared environment, and gain the training required for accreditation as a Godly Play storyteller or doorperson. Suitable for educators, clergy, chaplains, parish and community workers, and anyone wishing to use Godly Play in their ministry or family life. Registrations close 21 November 2026. |
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ContactPlease 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@stfran.qld.edu.au
Adam Couchman - Academic Dean
✉️ adam.couchman@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Peter Kline - Research Co-ordinator
✉️peter.kline@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Eve James - Library Manager
✉️eve.james@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Jonathan Sargeant - FormEdFaith
✉️ jonathan.sargeant@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Juliet Briner - Anglican Youth Children and Family
✉️ juliet.briner@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Ritti Kagi - Young Adult Ministry Facilitator
✉️ ritti.kagi@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
Tim Coates - Administration/Reception
✉️ enquiries@stfran.qld.edu.au
Wendy Dann - Spiritual Direction Program Officer
✉️ wendy.dann@anglicanchurchsq.org.au
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