Contents
In this edition of Frank's News:
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Frank’s News Editorial – February 2025
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Dear Readers,
We all have people in our lives who have been significant in our faith journey. Some at a personal level and others by the leadership or insight they have shown. I was confirmed by Archbishop Keith Rayner in 1977. Then in my late teens became involved in Diocesan-level Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Adelaide and participated in the annual synod-like Youth Conference, which Archbishop Keith had set up and usually attended, taking a real interest in the discussions. Bishop Keith always greeted me by name and took an interest in what was happening in my life and my family, even after being Archbishop of Melbourne for ten years when there would have many people he would have worked with and many he would have confirmed. Archbishop Keith spoke in a wise very measured way and was known for saying “on the one hand, but on the other hand”. Following his careful consideration of both sides he became a strong advocate for the ordination of women. He saw a lot of change in the church from when ordained in St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane in 1953 and being chaplain here at St Francis College as a first placement. The funeral service for Keith Rayner will be held at St Peter’s Cathedral in Adelaide on February 3 at 10 am, and is being streamed here from 9:45 am (9:15 am in Queensland).
On Tuesday 4 February 2025 at 1.00 pm there will be a Requiem Eucharist for the Reverend John Cuffe at All Saints’ Wickham Terrace. John studied at St Francis College prior to ordination as deacon in 1980 and priest in 1981, and he served in a number of chaplaincy and parish positions, including being priest-in-charge of the Milton Parish (2007-2009) and then the Auchenflower-Milton Parish (2009-2014). As we give thanks to God for the life and work of these two alumni of St Francis College, we will establish a new “Vale” column for Frank’s News to which you are invited to contribute tributes.
We are so excited about all that is on offer this semester. If you are studying with us, please enrol as soon as you can - the last day for the University of Divinity courses is 14 February and for the St Francis Spiritual Direction Formation Program is 17 February.
You are all invited to the Commencement Service on Sunday 23 February at 2:30 pm which will be held in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit here at St Francis College. During the service Archbishop Jeremy will commission the Right Rev’d Denise Ferguson as Director of Formation, the Rev’d Michael Stalley as Director of Discernment and the Rev’d Chris Bate as Vocations Officer. Please register to assist our catering Commencement Service 2025 — Saint Francis College.
It is now possible to do an Undergraduate Certificate of Divinity with the University of Divinity (during Covid the government provided universities with the opportunity to offer undergraduate certificates with the plan to phase this out in 2025, but in January this year it was decided that universities could offer undergraduate certificates). The four units can either be taken together as a fulltime load for one semester or across two years by doing one unit each semester. This could be a great opportunity for anyone interested in lay ministry, such as being a lay preacher or parish youth worker to complete some study in theology. Please contact our registrar, Linda Burridge, for more information about the certificate or any other courses at the University of Divinity. If you are interested in attending a class without doing any of the assessment, ask about auditing. If interested in studying at your own pace by watching the short course videos, then you may like to consider enrolling in the ATP Certificate.
For those currently involved in ministry, especially in parishes and schools, look out for the release of the first innerVIVID clips on spirituality themes, and the full set of ASKaround Cards, for which there were taster sets at Synod and the Provincial Clergy Conference. See below for your invitation to the launch on 20 March! You may also like to book a 360 workshop with Jonathan or Fiona from the Faith-Education-Formation team.
This year, AYCF will provide more support and encouragement for parish-based youth, children and families ministry. This will include a regular newsletter and the building up of a “resource” tab on the AYCF website. If you have not already done so, please go to the AYCF website and sign up for the newsletter. or contact the director of AYCF, Elissa Cotroneo, directly for more information.
There will also be more seasonal resources on the St Francis College website. You may like to check our Sunday Year C activities under the “Resources” heading.
Please note the following dates in your diaries for 2025:
- 9 February: Let's Talk Books
- 14 February: Close of Application for University of Divinity
- 14-16 February: Young Adults Summer Retreat
- 17 February: Close of Application for Spiritual Direction
- 17 February: Student Orientation Evening
- 23 February at 2:30 pm: Commencement Service at St Francis College
- 30 May at 4 pm: University of Divinity Graduation Service at St John’s Cathedral
- 31 May at 9:30 am: St Francis College Open Day and Seekers Afternoon
- 24-27 June: Proposed Ministry Winter School at St Francis College
- 3 October: St Francis Day Celebration with Alumni
- 12 September at 4 pm: Felix Arnott Lecture – Dr Lorna Hallahan
- 13 September: Workshop with Dr Lorna Hallahan
- 11 October: St Francis College Open Day and Seekers Afternoon
- 16 November: Valedictory Service
Blessings for the year ahead
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Countdown to a New Semester: Welcome Back!
With just one month to go until the new semester begins, we are excited to welcome everyone back to St Francis College.
Please mark your calendars for the Student Orientation Evening on 17 February. This event will be an excellent opportunity to meet fellow students, faculty, and staff, and to familiarize yourself with the resources and support available to you.
Classes will officially commence on 24 February. It is crucial to ensure that you are enrolled in your subjects and have all the necessary resources for your classes. This preparation will help you dive into your studies with confidence and enthusiasm.
In addition to these key dates, there are a few other important details to remember. Make sure you have all the required textbooks and materials for your courses. A good place to source textbooks is booko.com.au. If you have any questions about what you need, check the course syllabus or contact your lecturers.
Our extensive library resources are also at your disposal, and the library staff are always available to assist you in finding what you need.
A special note for our first-year students: Welcome to our community. Starting a new journey can be both thrilling and challenging, but remember, you are not alone. Our faculty, staff, and fellow students are here to support you every step of the way.
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Study Options at St Francis College
Explore our undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs designed to deepen your theological understanding and to prepare you for a meaningful career.
Why Choose Us?
- Experienced faculty
- Flexible study options
- Supportive community
- Auditing opportunities*
*Just $360 and no assessment
Get Started
Contact Registrar Linda Burridge on (07) 3514 7403 or Research Co-ordinator Assoc. Prof. Peter Kline on (07) 3514 7418 for more information.
Know someone who might be interested? Feel free to share this message with them!
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innerVIVID and ASKaround Launch
Date: 20 March
Time: 5 pm - 6 pm
Location: Old Bishopsbourne, St Francis College
All are invited to attend the official launch of this innovative project. Join Jonathan and Fiona from FormEdFaith as they introduce the video series and conversation cards to the diocese. We are excited to announce that Archbishop Jeremy Greaves will officially launch the project. The decks are $25 each and are available for sale at the launch.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of something transformative! We look forward to seeing you there.
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Roscoe Library Matters
Let’s talk books!
The Reading with Spiritual Eyes book club is open to all.
We’re planning a very relaxed face-to-face gathering 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 (fiction or non-fiction) 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. We may choose to read a short passage to illustrate some aspect of why the book has held our attention. 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. For more information, contact Eve on 35147419 or library@ministryeducation.org.au.
On the Way podcasts
Since its inception in 2017, the Roscoe Library has catalogued St John’s Cathedral’s On the Way podcast that explores the ‘deeper mysteries of faith, meaning, and beauty’. The hosts are Dean Peter Catt, Dom Fay and the Rev’d Sue Grimmett. Quite often the guest has recently written a book and the Roscoe Library purchases a copy. Two recent examples are Passions of the Soul by Rowan Williams and On Reflection by Richard Holloway. My recommendation is to listen to these excellent podcasts and then to borrow the books to delve more deeply.
Scanning / Printing / Photocopying within the Roscoe Library
This is a gentle reminder that access to the scanner/printer/copier has changed. I cannot set up your access; you will need to do this yourself, but it is straight-forward. Go to http://anglicanchurchsq.au.uniflowonline.com/ and enter your email address (this needs to be one that you can readily access). You will be sent an email. Once you confirm your email address, you will be logged in to uniFLOW Online from your computer browser. On the uniFLOW dashboard, on the left-hand side under Identities, you will see your email address and, very importantly, your PIN (to see this, click on the three dots to its right). Your PIN is used to access the scanner/printer/copier. Please record these details (I store mine on my phone for easy access).
Authors in the news … would you like to borrow books they’ve written?
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During January we learned of the death of the former primate, the Right Reverend Dr Keith Rayner AO. Dr Muriel Porter wrote an excellent obituary that was published in The Sydney Morning Herald under the title Towering Intellectual Leader was Highly Respected Across Church. The Roscoe Library holds a number of items written by Keith Rayner, from his 1962 PhD thesis, The History of the Church of England in Queensland, to book chapters, Bible studies and presentations.
Richard B. Hays, Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Duke University, also died in January. The Roscoe Library holds books written, edited, or contributed to by Richard B. Hays. In 1996, Hays wrote The Moral Vision of the New Testament; in one chapter of this he argued against same-sex relationships as sinful. His last book, published in 2024 with his son, Old Testament scholar Christopher B. Hays, was The Widening of God's Mercy: Sexuality within the Biblical Story. “The book begins with the authors’ personal experiences of controversies over sexuality and closes with Richard Hays’s epilogue reflecting on his own change of heart and mind.”
The Rev'd Don Cupitt (22 May 1934 – 18 January 2025). Don Cupitt was an English philosopher of religion and academic of Christian theology. He had been an Anglican priest and a lecturer in the University of Cambridge, though he was better known as a popular writer, broadcaster and commentator. He was described as a "radical theologian", noted for his ideas about "non-realist" philosophy of religion. Among Don Cupitt works held at the Roscoe Library are some written by the late Rev’d Dr Nigel Leaves.
The last author I’d like to draw to your attention is very much alive. The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde made international news following her sermon in which she urged President Trump to have mercy on those in the United States who are scared; the transcript of her sermon can be read in this Guardian article. Bishop Budde’s most recent book, published in 2023, is How We Learn to be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith. This is expected to arrive at the library next week.
Membership
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.
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Theology on Tap Event
The Restoration of All Things: What We Can Learn from Restorative Justice
Date/Time: 9 February 2025 at 4 pm
Location: The Raven Hotel
Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RREws4wBv/
Join Theology on Tap, Brisbane for an enlightening session with Martin Howard —restorative justice advocate and Sycamore Tree Project facilitator—who will explore the transformative outcomes of meetings between crime victims and perpetrators. Through the lens of restorative justice, the presentation will trace the biblical theme of “restoration of all things.” Using Scripture and real-world experience, this session challenges “tough on crime” fallacies prevalent in the Christian community and reveals the compelling evidence for a justice that transcends retributive imprisonment. Drawing on the theme of restoration in biblical prophecy, poetry, and history, Martin shows how developments in restorative justice point us back to God’s grand narrative of renewal and reconciliation—inspiring us as both citizens and saints. The presentation will feature a video about experiences of crime victims in the Sycamore Tree Project.
About Martin Howard:
Martin has been a volunteer with Prison Fellowship for over 30 years, pioneering programs for crime victims and prisoners. He has held advisory roles at Prison Fellowship International, Restorative Justice International, and Restorative Practices International. Martin works as a graphic designer in Brisbane, where he lives with his wife and family.
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Getaways and Event Spaces
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Host Your Next Event at Old Bishopsbourne
Looking for a unique and elegant venue for your corporate meetings or private functions? Old Bishopsbourne offers a historic and charming setting that is perfect for any occasion.
Why Choose Old Bishopsbourne?
- Historic charm: Immerse your guests in the rich history, beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings of Old Bishopsbourne.
- Versatile spaces: Whether it's a corporate meeting, a private party, or a special celebration, our spaces can be tailored to meet your needs.
- Modern amenities: Enjoy the perfect blend of historic ambience and modern facilities.
- Professional support: Our dedicated team is here to ensure your event runs smoothly from start to finish.
Book Your Event Today!
Contact us at (07) 3514 7400 or email enquiries@ministryeducation.org.au for more information and to schedule a tour of our facilities.
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Escape to Tranquility: Pointro Campsite at Boonah
You can now conveniently book your stay through Hipcamp. Book Now!
Escape to the serene beauty of Pointro, a no-frills campsite nestled on the picturesque banks of Maroon Dam in Queensland. Perfect for those seeking a genuine, back-to-nature experience, Pointro offers spacious sites with breathtaking views, cosy firepits, and amenities including toilets and hot showers.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the great outdoors, where you can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, water sports, and hiking. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a weekend with friends, or a group retreat, Pointro provides the ideal setting for unforgettable memories.
Our bunkhouse, accommodating up to 36 people, is perfect for youth camps and group gatherings. For bunkhouse bookings, please email pointro@anglicanchurchsq.org.au.
Discover the charm of Pointro Campsite – your ultimate destination for a peaceful and authentic camping experience.
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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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