Contents
In this edition of Frank's News:
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Dear readers,
I had the opportunity of starting Holy Week with the Palm Sunday liturgy at the Chapel of the Holy Spirit and then accompanying Bishop John and others on his annual walk across the southern region of the diocese. I enjoyed the conversations along the way, and the hospitality at St Thomas, Toowong and Christ Church, St Lucia. On arriving at each church Bishop John prays for peace. On Palm Sunday, the day we remember the prince of peace riding into Jerusalem, the Anglican al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza was hit by Israeli air strike for the fifth time, destroying the pharmacy and emergency in what had been the last functioning hospital in north Gaza. A Russian missile attack in the Ukrainian city of Sumy as people were gathering for Palm Sunday worship resulted in the death of more than 30 people. It is a difficult time for many people in the world at this time in history.
Jesus came into the world at a difficult time in world history and in this most holy of weeks we journey with him to the cross, and then after the waiting we celebrate new life. I pray that you may find new hope as we celebrate the Easter Season and that across the world we may all come to believe that peace is possible as we pray and work for God’s kingdom to come on earth as in heaven.
At St Francis College, May begins with an ecumenical candle vigil on May 1 for those who suffer domestic and family violence and concludes with the University of Divinity Graduation at 4 pm on Friday May 30, and our Open Day on Saturday May 31. The Open Day will include an opportunity to hear from students and two mini-lectures, one on theology and arts with Jonathan Sargeant who writes great film reviews for anglican focus and I will reflect on what the church can learn about mission from the parkrun phenomenon. Please register your attendance here - https://www.trybooking.com/DBBLR. You are all also welcome to come to the Graduation and support the St Francis students graduating. The Rev’d Canon Dr Greg Jenks will receive an honorary doctorate and give the occasional address. You may also like to look at resources he has prepared for Holy Week as part of the Ipswich Anglicans Faith at Home project. Faith at Home | IpswichAnglicans.
I encourage you to look at the innerVIVID videos, the first two themes are now available, and you may like to use the ASKaround Cards ASKaround — FormEdFaith to stimulate conversations about spirituality – perhaps even with family and friends over Easter. I have purchased packs to take with me to Adelaide for Easter and give to both my adult children and my father in aged care … we will see what conversations may emerge!
May this Easter bring you, your loved ones and your church communities peace, joy, and a renewed hope.
May the light of Christ shine into our hearts, our homes, our communities, our country and our world.
Wishing you all a blessed and happy Easter.
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Chapel of the Holy Spirit is setup for Palm Sunday.
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Formation students attend Chrism Mass at St John's Cathedral, Brisbane.
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Easter Messages from St Francis College
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Celebrate the hope and renewal of Easter with us as we reflect on the resurrection of Christ and its promise of new beginnings.
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We asked a number of people around college what Easter means to them - their answers were inspiring, thoughtful, and sometimes surprising.
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New Units in Semester 2
We have three fascinating new units that will broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of history, theology, and culture.
🔹 Cracking of Christendom: Explore the events that reshaped Western Christianity 500 years ago and their lasting impact on contemporary life and worship.
🔹 Reading Trauma in the Book of Jeremiah: Delve into the complex themes of pain and trauma in the book of Jeremiah with insights from Associate Professor Liz Boase.
🔹 Aboriginal Cultures and Spirituality: Journey through the rich traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and their relevance to modern Australia.
Curious to learn more? Check out our detailed article here:
https://www.stfran.qld.edu.au/articles/2025/4/17/new-subjects-in-2025
Don't miss out on these unique learning opportunities. Enrol now!
These subjects are available to be audited or can form part of a degree, diploma or certificate. Flexible Study Modes are available.
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Godly Play
The next event by Godly Play is
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Core Training Event (7-9 July): Participants will immerse themselves in an intense three-day course designed to deepen their understanding and practice of Godly Play. Led by two accredited trainers, this training covers the three genres of stories, the roles of storyteller and doorperson, the Godly Play space, materials, and much more.
For more information on either of the above events, contact Rev'd Kathrin Koning at kathrinkoning62@gmail.com or 0423 698 925.
To register - https://godlyplay.com.au/training/queensland/
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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 - 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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Mathew Hale Public Library Annual Dinner with Chris Mulherin
Friday 9th May, 6.30-9.30pm at Kedron Wavell Services Club, 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside
Hear The Rev’d Dr Chris Mulherin at the Mathew Hale Public Library’s annual dinner. Chris is the Executive Director of ISCAST (Christianity and Science in Conversation), a lecturer in philosophy at the University of Divinity, and the Archbishop of Melbourne’s Adviser for Science–Faith Education. He will speak on rediscovering a sense of wonder in an empirical world. You can read more about Chris and ISCAST at https://iscast.org/people/mulherin-chris/
Cost
$60/person or $400 for a table of 8.
Book by 6pm Monday 5th May at https://www.trybooking.com/DAPZX
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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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