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

Contents

Frank’s News Editorial

Dear Readers,

I write in the first week of second semester classes and am enjoying the energy and enthusiasm of students being back on site. We are delighted with our enrolment numbers and the number of people choosing to “audit” classes – that is, attend without doing assessment.

During July I was enriched by participating in three amazing opportunities: the international meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) in Adelaide; the ABM Pilgrimage to the Solomon Islands, and a seminar for staff and student representatives from colleges in the Anglican Theological Seminary Deans Network (East Asia – Oceania region).

The Society for Biblical Literature is the major professional organisation for English-speaking biblical scholars. With more than 7000 members it is focussed on the critical investigation of the Bible from a variety of academic disciplines. This year the annual international meeting was held in Adelaide and there were nearly 500 participants from more than 35 countries, 150 sessions, and 400 papers presented (60 from University of Divinity). A highlight for me was having a conversation with Professor Amy-Jill Levine (Jewish New Testament Scholar) about forgiveness in Matthew 18.

Archbishop Jeremy Greaves led the ABM Pilgrimage to the Solomon Islands organised by Meagan Schwartz.  It was a great privilege for us thirteen pilgrims from across Australia to worship with the Anglican Church of Melanesia and visit the work they do, especially in responding to domestic violence and climate change. I enjoyed visiting the current Bishop Patteson Theological College at Kohimarama, meeting faculty and discussing the third-year thesis topics with students. It was inspiring to see the site and first building of the planned John Coleridge Patteson University (JCPU) in Honiara later in the week.  I especially appreciated the opportunity to spend time with all four of the Anglican Religious Orders: The Melanesian Brothers at Tabalia (with about 80 novices); the Melanesian Sisters at Verana’aso; the Franciscan brothers at Hautabu; and the Sisters of the Church at TNK (Hill of Prayer).

This year the Anglican Seminary Deans Network (ASDN) convened a Seminar on Leadership and Management in the Age of Technology in Manila. I really appreciated the opportunity to visit St Andrews Theological Seminar (SATS), which will begin their new academic year with 105 students in residence; this includes a couple from Myanmar and one from PNG. This gathering included theological students from the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, PNG, Polynesia, and Aotearoa New Zealand. It was unusual to be in a group of 35 Anglicans, many of whom did not speak English as a first language and as one of only four “whites”. There is a lot to learn about theological education from colleagues in Asia and the Pacific, and how we might collaborate more.

I have returned for this semester with my head full of new understandings from SBL, my heart warmed by the witness and worship of the Church of Melanesia and renewed energy for being “hands on” in theological education in our Asia-Pacific context.

There are a lot of interesting opportunities coming up this semester and I invite you to consider registering to attend.

• On Friday 21 August Thinking Theologically About Social Institutions brings together experts in theology and social science to reflect on the theological significance of social institutions such as not-for-profit charities, welfare organisations, and the military. How might institutions that often have complex and evolving relationships with the Church better understand the theological dimensions of their history, purpose, and mission? Featuring Professor Johannes Eurich (Heidelberg University), Professor Craig Furneaux (QUT), the Rev’d Canon Jessica Grant (military chaplaincy), and Dr Stephen Harrison (Anglicare), the seminar will explore how theology can illuminate the role of social institutions in contemporary society through presentations, panel discussion, and conversation. Register here: Research Seminar with Professor Johannes Eurich — Saint Francis College.

• On Wednesday 23 September the Rev’d Dr Matthew Anstey will present a public lecture on: Translating the Psalms for Liturgical Use: Reflections on Language, Theology and Contemporary Life.

• Join us as we celebrate St Francis Day with a special Eucharist and community gathering at St Francis College on Wednesday, 7 October. The celebration will begin with a Eucharist at 12.00pm, with Bishop Godfrey Fryar as celebrant. Followed by a light lunch and an address from our guest speaker, The Rev’d Dr Matthew Beckmann OFM. Please register here: St Francis Day Celebration — Saint Francis College.

• On Saturday 24 October the Archbishop of York, the Most Rev’d Stephen Cottrell, will offer a preaching workshop. Please register here: Preaching Workshop with Archbishop Stephen Cottrell.

• On Monday 9 November, the Rev’d Christopher Waterhouse (Rector of St James’ King St) will present the 2026 David Binns Memorial Lecture. He will explore the work of two acclaimed British Christian artists, Nicholas Mynheer and Roger Wagner, whose distinctive artistic visions have made a significant contribution to contemporary sacred art. As a special feature, Christopher will share The Empty Tomb, an original work by Nicholas Mynheer from his own collection. David Binns Memorial Lecture 2026 — Saint Francis College.

Registrations have now opened for the 2026 MOW conference Make No Mistake...God Calls Women!, being held 12 to 14 November 2026 at Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Canberra. Movement for the Ordination of Women 2026 Conference.

Please invite any Young Adults interested in exploring and deepening their faith to register for the Anglican Young Adult retreat being held at beautiful Mount Alford Lodge from Friday 27 November to Sunday 29 November.  Note that there is a good early bird discount. Young Adults Retreat — Saint Francis College.

For those engaged in Children’s Ministry please note the dates and topics for PASS IT ON.

Blessings,

Ruth

Naomi Wolfe appointed Dean of Learning and Teaching

The University of Divinity is pleased to announce the appointment of Naomi Wolfe as Dean of Learning and Teaching. Bringing extensive leadership experience across both public universities and private tertiary providers, Naomi has a strong background in curriculum design, educational innovation, community-engaged learning, and quality assurance. Vice-Chancellor Professor James McLaren welcomed the appointment, noting Naomi’s proven commitment to academic excellence and integrity, while Naomi expressed her enthusiasm for working with colleagues, students, and the wider community to strengthen learning and teaching that is academically rigorous, inclusive of diverse ways of knowing, and prepares graduates to serve with wisdom, integrity, and compassion. Read more: Naomi Wolfe appointed Dean of Learning and Teaching - VOX

Record Semester Enrolments

St Francis College is delighted to welcome a record number of audit students this coming semester, with enrolments continuing to grow across our award and audit courses.

We are deeply grateful to the many priests, parish leaders and congregations who have encouraged people to study with us. Your recommendations and support make a real difference. We feel honoured by the trust you place in St Francis College to help form, equip and inspire people for ministry, discipleship and lifelong learning. We look forward to welcoming both new and returning students as the semester begins.

If you've been thinking about studying theology, ministry, spirituality or leadership, it's not too late to explore your options. Contact St Francis College to discuss available courses and find the study pathway that's right for you.

Seminar on Leadership and Management in the Age of Technology

by Juliet Briner

Last week (21 to 24 July) I had the privilege of attending the Anglican Seminary Deans Network (ASDN) conference as the student representative for St Francis College with our own Principal Ruth Mathieson. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with Deans, principals, lecturers, and students from the Anglican communion and was the perfect illustration of how we are all connected through a shared pattern of worship as found in Anglicanism. People from Taiwan, China, Japan, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Australia were present at the conference.

The speakers at the conference shared from topics around, Technological Futures or Futures without (or with less) Technology, Technology and Conflict Management (using ancient technology of the talking circle), Youth as our Future (what will our youth inherit in this age of technology) and Rising Waters (how can technology help or hinder the preservation of island culture as whole islands face extinction).

In the first session with Stephen Lim from China, I appreciated the opportunity to reframe technology. When I think of technology I think of computers, step counting watches, mobile phones as well as electric cars, but I was reminded that the humble pen is a form of technology and for some in the room, it is a reliable, accessible technology in places where electricity is a luxury. I was also reminded of the fast-moving nature of technology. The expense of owning a mobile phone or computer that becomes outdated and unable to update software before the hardware wears out, which for many students can put them at a disadvantage with their study if they financially can’t upgrade.

I was also challenged by the notion of what future generations will inherit in the age of AI during the session by Sunshine Dulnuan from the Philippines. How will AI mould, shape and reform education and life to the detriment of our shared Christian history? Sunshine talked about remembering as a command in the Bible not so we can recall the past as facts but so we can form communities around shared practice and ways of living that sets Christians apart in the world. We have a responsibility to preserve our Christian memories to bring hope to the future however not every memory deserves to be preserved. In a breakout group we talked about how youth could be given space to build on these memories. The topic of music came up. In a lot of church settings, we inherit hymnals that contain beautiful yet sometimes troubling hymns. Often the music does not reflect the cultural diversity or age of the people in our church, but it is presented as a complete, not to be changed list for worship each week. But are we losing opportunities for younger, musically gifted, spiritually inspired people to build on this tradition with such rigid parameters? Could AI have a role in creating that music or is it better to affirm and encourage the human talent in our parishes?

All in all, it was a fantastic opportunity and a perfect springboard into semester 2 studies here at St Francis College!

Study Skills Workshop

Want to improve your academic writing and study techniques? Join St Francis College for a practical Study Skills Workshop on Thursday 6 August, 2.00pm to 4.00pm, available both in person and online.

Led by Adam Couchman and Peter Kline, this interactive session will explore key skills for successful tertiary study, including how to read academic texts effectively, take meaningful notes, understand assessment questions, and develop strong academic writing practices. Participants will also receive practical guidance on footnoting and referencing correctly, helping them navigate the expectations of academic assessment with greater confidence.

In addition to writing skills, the session will explore study strategies that support learning and retention, equipping participants with practical tools they can apply immediately to their subjects and assignments.

Importantly, the workshop recognises that academic reading, writing and study skills develop over time. Participants will be encouraged to build on their existing abilities, practise new techniques, and gain confidence in a supportive learning environment. Everyone is welcome.

More information and Registration: Study Skills Workshop

Thinking Theologically About Social Institutions

St Francis College is pleased to host a special research seminar on Friday, 21 August at 9:30am, in collaboration with Alpha Crucis University College, ANZATS and Anglicare. The seminar will explore how theology can help us understand the role and purpose of social institutions in contemporary society.

Hosted around the theme "Thinking Theologically About Social Institutions", the seminar will feature an international and interdisciplinary panel including Professor Johannes Eurich (Heidelberg University, Germany), Professor Craig Furneaux (Queensland University of Technology), Jessica Grant (Anglican Diocese of Southern Queensland), and Stephen Harrison (Anglicare Southern Queensland).

Professor Eurich is a leading scholar in diaconia studies, examining how Christian faith is embodied through social care, welfare, and community service. Together, the panel will explore the theological significance of social institutions such as not-for-profit charities, welfare organisations, and even the military. How might institutions that often have complex and evolving relationships with the Church better understand the theological dimensions of their history, purpose, and mission? Presentations will be followed by an extended panel discussion and audience conversation.

The seminar will be of interest to academics, students, clergy, church leaders, and anyone working in or alongside faith-based and community service organisations. Participants will gain fresh insights from experts in theology and social science, while engaging with contemporary questions about faith, public life, and institutional vocation.

For more information and registrations:

Research Seminar with Professor Johannes Eurich — Saint Francis College

Roscoe Library Matters

Season of Holy Women Resources

The Season of Holy Women is an invitation to focus on issues concerning women and the church. These topics include women’s justice issues such as period poverty, menopause and reproductive health, and women’s leadership development. It is the perfect time to catch up with current biblical scholarship around women in the bible, such as Mary Magdalene and Mary and Martha. It could be the time to introduce some concepts of feminist theology and feminist biblical criticism to a community. The Season of Holy Women is also a great time to celebrate our Anglican women’s religious communities, telling their founding stories, honouring their charisms, and imagining future directions for religious communities of women in the Australian Anglican Church.

Calendar for the Season of Holy Women

• 20 July Margaret of Antioch

• 22 July Mary Magdalene

• 27 July Anne, Mother of Mary

• 29 July Mary and Martha

• 29 July The Philadelphia Eleven

• 1 August Holy Women of the Old Testament

• 3 August The Myrrh Bearers: Joanna, Mary & Salome

• 8 August Mary of the Cross

• 9 August Mary Sumner

• 11 August Clare of Assisi

• 12 August Florence Nightingale

• 14 August Grand Duchess Elizabeth

• 14 August Maria Skobstova

• 15 August Mary Mother of God

New books!

The Mountain of Blessing: Exploring the Beatitudes / Rob Marshall. The Beatitudes are among Jesus' most arresting words: a series of blessings that overturn our assumptions about success, happiness and worth. Rob Marshall explores each of these sayings with clarity and compassion, offering short, practical reflections that bring their ancient wisdom into conversation with the realities of modern life. This accessible and thoughtful guide helps readers discover how the unexpected promises of Jesus still speak, and still surprise, today.

Hope in Community / edited by Ruth Harvey. The Iona Community affirms that our faith is ‘rooted in hope: lived in community’. This is not a fingers-crossed optimism, but a gritty, determined commitment to the transformative power of love and justice when joined with that of our neighbour. In this collection, a new generation of theologians and writers, members of the Iona Community’s Young Adults Group, volunteers, and those who have lived and worked at the Abbey, invite us to walk the road from the gates of Jerusalem to the empty tomb. Through fresh reflections on familiar scriptures, they explore the ‘feet-on-the-ground’ gap between our hopes and their fulfilment, weaving the outside story of Christ with their own lived experiences of intentional community.

Faithful Presence in a Fractured World: A Church Toolkit for Resisting the Far Right / edited by Helen Paynter. Christian nationalism and far-right ideologies are gaining traction in society and within parts of the Church. Faithful Presence in a Fractured World offers practical, theologically grounded tools to help local church leaders respond with courage, clarity, and compassion. Although written for a UK readership, much can be adapted for use within an Australian context. This concise and accessible volume moves beyond abstract theory to offer concrete, achievable steps—ranging from youth engagement and interfaith dialogue to housing justice and digital literacy. With a focus on equipping rather than overwhelming, it's a helpful resource for church leaders, activists, and all those concerned about the Church's witness in an age of extremism.

Edge-walkers: Reimagining Faith, Church and Theology / edited by Armen Gakavian, Karina Kreminski, Steve Taylor. 20 cutting-edge leaders explore and interrogate what it means for them to be on the fringes of faith, church and theology in Australia. The book stresses the urgent need for 'edge' ministries and how they contribute to the much-needed renewal and life of the church and our faith. These edge-walkers are reimagining faith, church and theology in their practice. Each chapter focuses on the theological and practical implications of their lived experiences, wrestling with practices such as Neighbourhood, Evangelism, Digital Connection, Play, Pakipaki, Decolonisation and Eucharist. Some practices are ancient to the Christian faith, while others have emerged in recent times as people contextualise the gospel. The Christian faith is not monolithic, but multi-coloured and diverse. The edge-walkers in this book show us what is possible in a season when so many are leaving the church and deconstructing (and reconstructing) their faith. Their persistence, innovation and gentleness give us hope for the future of the changing landscape of the church, faith and theology.

Rooted in Love: Resources for Marriage and Partnership from Beginning to End / edited by Diana E. Carroll. Rooted in Love is a unique treasury of inclusive prayers, poems, blessings, rituals and reflections for couples of all genders at every stage of marriage and committed partnership. Drawing on the lived experiences of diverse contributors, this wealth of resources honours the beauty and complexity of partnered love: from joyful beginnings and big celebrations to the everyday realities of life together, including illness, transitions, and even endings. Whether you are planning a wedding, marking a milestone, navigating a difficult season, or supporting others in their relationships, Rooted in Love offers the words you couldn’t find and didn’t know you needed. Both practical and poetic, this is an essential companion for couples, celebrants, counsellors, and all who care about the sacred work of loving another person well.

A True and Lively Faith / edited by Bishop Stephen Pickard. A True and Lively Faith, volume one of Contested Issues in Australian Anglicanism, offers essays from within the Australian Anglican Church, presenting arguments for comprehensive Anglicanism in the face of the current challenge from less inclusive modes of the Church in this country. The contributors – leading clergy and laity from across Australia – demonstrate comprehensive Anglicanism’s faithfulness to Scripture and the Creeds, provide thoughtful reflections on the Church’s generous mission, and confront some of the harder issues threatening to divide the Church. A True and Lively Faith is a project of the National Comprehensive Anglicanism Network (NCAN).

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. Do join … you’ll be so glad that you did!

The Reading with Spiritual Eyes book club will be meeting on 8 September 2026, from 5:30pm — 7:00pm, in person and online, to discuss the 2025 winner of the Miles Franklin award, Ghost Cities, by Siang Lu. All welcome, but please register for catering and set-up purposes.

Bible360

The FormEdFaith team are busy with a new project and still have time to lead BIBLE360 workshops around the diocese. Last weekend Jonathan was at St Andrew’s, Indooroopilly and Fiona will be leading a workshop in the next couple of weeks. BIBLE360 is a great introduction to the Bible for people of all ages and backgrounds. It offers a place to start the adventure of reading the Bible or to pick up the journey again if it has been a while.

If you'd like to learn a little more about one of the people behind FormEdFaith's ministry, Anglican focus recently sat down with Director Jonathan Sargeant for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, creativity, education and inclusion.

In the interview, Jonathan reflects on the experiences and passions that have shaped his ministry and approach to lifelong learning - Q&A with film buff, educator, former band singer and Director of Lay Education, Jonathan Sargeant

Pointro Campsite Offers Scenic Getaway

For those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Pointro Campsite is quickly earning a reputation as a welcoming destination with stunning scenery and excellent facilities. Visitors have praised both the natural beauty of the site and the hospitality of its hosts. One recent guest shared:

“This campsite was absolutely perfect! The host gave us such a warm welcome and was incredibly kind throughout our stay. Whenever I sent a message, they responded almost immediately, which I really appreciated. The drive to the campsite was beautiful, the views were absolutely breathtaking, and the bathroom was spotless and very well maintained. I will definitely be coming back. Thank you so much to the wonderful host for making our stay so memorable!”

Another commented:

We had such a lovely experience camping at Pointro! Everything went so smoothly and with quick informative responses from the host which made the experience so effortless. The secret spot was an awesome spot, we felt so truly lucky to have found this wonderful campsite!

With its picturesque setting, clean amenities and warm hospitality, Pointro Campsite is proving to be a popular choice for campers looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Australian landscape.

AYAM Retreat to Bring Young Adults Together

Young adults from across the Diocese will gather at Mount Alford Lodge from 27 to 29 November for the AYAM Young Adults Retreat, a weekend designed to foster community, reflection and spiritual growth.

The retreat will provide opportunities for participants to connect with one another in an informal setting while engaging in a program focused on exploring faith and its place in everyday life. Organisers hope the weekend will encourage new friendships and support young adults in their spiritual journeys. For Jordan, the retreat provides a much-needed opportunity for spiritual renewal amid the busyness of modern life.

"I completely understand that young adult lives are some of the busiest. That's why this retreat is more important than ever. This is more than just a getaway; it's a chance to build on the practice of stepping out of time and being with God, wherever our busy lives take us."

Accommodation and meals will be provided throughout the retreat, which concludes with a Eucharist on Sunday morning. Carpooling arrangements will also be available to assist participants travelling to the event.

The retreat forms part of AYAM's ongoing ministry with young adults, creating spaces for connection, conversation and faith formation within the life of the Church.

Places are limited, so secure your spot today: https://stfran.qld.edu.au/ayam/retreat-booking

Looking Through the Dignity Lens

International educator and leadership consultant Dr Beth-Sarah Wright will return to Queensland in August and September for the Anglican Schools Commission's 2026 Residency, building on the strong response to her visit last year.

 Dr Wright's DIGNITY Lens© invites school communities to reflect on how their values are expressed in everyday life. In preparation for the residency, she has developed a series of reflections exploring identity, diversity, integrity, growth and nurture, centred on the question: How might we live more authentically into who we say we are?

The residency will feature workshops for staff and clergy, facilitator training, student forums, and a livestreamed presentation for schools across Queensland. Archbishop Jeremy Greaves has encouraged clergy and lay ministers to participate, describing the workshops as an excellent resource for ministry and formation.

For workshop dates and registration details, visit the Anglican Schools Commission events page or contact Mary-Anne Rulfs at the Anglican Church Southern Queensland.

Exploring AI Together

Date: Saturday, 29 August from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people work, learn, communicate and make decisions. It is already reshaping how we do education, ministry, governance, administration and community services.

Yet many people across our parishes, schools and agencies are still asking a simple question:

What does this mean for the Church?

Exploring AI Together is a practical and accessible learning day designed specifically for the Anglican Church Southern Queensland. Through presentations, discussion and reflection, participants will explore what AI is, how it is already affecting our work, and how we might engage with it wisely, responsibly and faithfully.

The day will be particularly relevant for:

• Clergy and parish leaders

• Parish councillors and wardens

• Synod members

• Members of diocesan commissions and committees

• Anglican school council members

• Anyone interested in how emerging technologies are shaping ministry and society

Northern Region Lay Retreat 2026

The seventh annual silent lay retreat will be from 20 to 22 November, with the option of single day attendance on Saturday 21st.

Normally the retreat is the last week of November to coincide with Advent 1, but this year it is the week before, coinciding with Christ the King.

Guest speaker is The Very Reverend Dr Peter Catt, Dean of St John’s Cathedral. His theme is Anticipating the Commonwealth of God: Spiritual practice in a complex world, which will combine the Christ the King theme with the Advent theme.

Bishop Sarah Plowman will celebrate the Eucharist on Sunday, and our resident priest for the retreat is The Rev’d Steven Schwarzrock from Stafford parish.

The retreat is once again at Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre at Ormiston, a beautiful and peaceful space.

As in previous years the weekend is open to the whole Diocese, and to any others who may be interested.

Further details & booking information please contact Nerida Murray on

Mobile 0411 052 292 or neridamurray@me.com