FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
18th September 2011
Graphics and cartoons & liturgical material appear only in the printed version
BUILDING FENCES
An engineer, a physicist and a mathematician were in a competition were required to build a fence around a flock of sheep, using as little material as possible. The engineer formed the flock into a circular shape and constructed a fence around it. The physicist built a fence with an infinite diameter and pulled it together until it fitted around the flock. The mathematicians thought for a while and then built a fence around himself and defined himself as being outside.
ADVICE
When we ask advice we are usually looking for an accomplice.
THIS, THAT
AND THE OTHER (14)
Andrew Neaum
Ten years ago, on the day that a handful of hideously inhumane fanatics slammed planes into the World Trade Centre, I was on holiday in Merimbula. I spent pretty well the whole of September the eleventh in that year watching the atrocity unfold on television.
Bell birds, oysters and blossom
I remember the holiday more happily for other things as well. It was there that I discovered bell birds for the first time, whose chiming I initially mistook for musical tree frogs. I also sampled with gusto the large local oysters, walked round and canoed the beautiful estuarine lakes and revelled in the scent of the blossom of the ubiquitous, glossy leaved Pittosporum undulatum trees.
A couple of years later, on moving to Shepparton, I discovered to my delight that there is a very fine specimen of that tree growing in the corner of the Rectory garden. As I tap away at this diary column the air in the garden is heavy with its sweet scent.
Last weekend Diana and I passed through Merimbula while traversing some of the most beautiful countryside in south east Australia. The bell birds still chimed and the air was as sweetly scent-laden as ever.
A glorious journey
We headed from Albury through Tallangatta, Corryong, Khancoban, Jindabyne, Pambula, Merimbula, Bermagui and Moruya to Malua Bay, south of Bateman's Bay. There my son Peter was staying in the house of two friends overlooking the sea, while doing a painting job for them. He had suggested that we join him for a day or two, and so we did, thanks to Gail's return, and as a self-granted reward for four or five fairly onerous weeks.
The trip to Corryong is familiar to me and much loved, especially when so lush and verdant, though when we paused to survey old Tallangatta, covered by a very full Hume Dam, the wind was bitter, promising snow further along our route. The trip beyond Corryong was new to me and unutterably lovely and interesting, even if Khancoban proved to be something of a disappointment. With its romantic sounding name and situation I had imagined much more, but it seems to have been constructed for workers on the Snowy River Hydro project, rather than to have evolved over many generations and so it has a pre-fabricated look and feel.
Beautiful hydro electricity
After a brief look at Khancoban we pressed on to the nearby Murray 2 Power Station. There we managed to begin really to grasp some of the wonders of the great Hydro Electric scheme about which both Diana and I had first learned during school geography lessons, she in England, I in Rhodesia.
That anyone should have had the imaginative audacity to conceive and propose so wondrous and grandiose a scheme staggered us more even than the achievement of those who toiled so long and so well to make it a reality.
Hydro electricity is a most beautiful and usually beautifying form of human ingenuity and endeavour. I first became aware of its beauty and potential with the building of the great Kariba Dam in Rhodesia in the nineteen fifties, which is still one of the largest dams in the world and an "unnatural" wonder and asset that rivals and surpasses much of the "natural" beauty that surrounds it.
Over the divide
We pressed on up the mountains ignoring the advice of bossy road signs to do with snow chains, having ascertained from someone coming the other way that the road was clear, safe and free of snow and ice. As we got higher and higher there was a light sprinkling of snow on the ground beneath the trees, thicker in hollows and gutters. Near the highest point we passed through a very light and gentle snow shower, but nothing settled on the road, so all was well. We stopped briefly to take a photograph of the snow and skiers at Thredbo and then pressed on to Jindabyne where we lunched overlooking its cold but lovely lake.
We then took headed through Dalgety and Maffra over the sere, brown, rain-shadowed highland grasslands, their lack of verdancy probably due less to a want of rain than to a want of warmth. Eventually grassland turned to woodland and then forest as we descended to the coastal hills and plains to make our way through Pambula and Merimbula and up the pleasing and scenic coastal road to Bermagui and Tilba. There we joined the Princes Highway to Moruya and as twilight descended turned off along a beautiful estuary, arriving at our destination by about half past six.
Coastal bays and botanic gardens
The coast around Malua Bay is notable for innumerable and largely self-contained little coves, with rugged, rocky headlands and little islands.
We had a lovely full two days there in a comfortable house overlooking the bay. The well treed and densely bushed cliffs help disguise human habitation and our house had a resident and not too shy possum who allowed Diana to observe at close quarters for the first time the wide-eyed curiosity and alert translucent ears of its kind.
The main activity of our first full day was an extended visit to the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens. These are situated on a 42 hectare forest site, five kilometres south of Batemans Bay and they display entirely indigenous plant species that occur naturally in the region. Beautifully laid out and extensively and clearly labelled they were a delight to wander around, especially to Diana as she attempts to makes sense of Australia's unique and puzzling flora. The gardens were established in 1987 and some years ago were ravaged by a huge bush fire. There are only two full time employees, but an obviously very active and proud group of "friends" who volunteer their time, care, love and expertise.
Matters Anglican
We met and passed the time of day with an elderly lady and her daughter while wandering the gardens. Later, while visiting Bateman Bay's Anglican Church to ascertain service times, we coincidentally encountered her again, practising on the organ.
I had feared that Batemans Bay might be in the Diocese of Sydney, whose characteristic style of worship, let alone its theology, is extremely uncongenial to me. I was pleased to observe, however, that there were candles on the altar and that the parish is a part of the Diocese of Canberra Goulburn. The church building is a modern one, its architecture as is so often the case these days, of a sort conducive to and expressive of a theology more concerned with fellowship than with awe. Thank God for the "otherness" of St Augustine's.
The delightful old bird on the organ, summing us up well, advised us to attend the eight o clock Eucharist, describing the later one as "happy clappy". As it turned out we attended the early service in order to worship, but stayed on for the first part of the second, merely to experience and perhaps learn from it. At the first we underwent two "sermons". The first was a little dissertation on the September Eleven atrocity, the second a more substantial one on Stewardship, of all things. Neither of them was at all bad.
The parish is blessed by many retired clergy, and the deliverer of the second address was a Fr Peter Lord, retired from Warnambool in my first Australian diocese of Ballarat. We had a long and amiable gossip afterwards. He was at theological college with Bishop David Farrer and had some amusing reminiscences to share.
The "happy clappy" service was not much to my personal taste, but was interesting nonetheless. The two participating clergymen were unrobed and waved their arms about as the first twenty minute "bracket" of singing meandered on. Crucial to the music's success was an accomplished, middle-aged and articulate keyboardist who broke into enthusiastic, directive dialogue periodically, revealing the primary purpose of the music to be to soften folk up emotionally. The three female vocalists were less than accomplished, the middle-aged guitarist very good and the drummer restrained.
The service was well attended by a congregation less young than I expected. The arm-wavers tended to be middle-aged or elderly. There were about twenty children who went out to "kids church" once the singing session was over. Teenagers were very few, though there was a fair sprinkling of young adults. The bulk of the congregation was middle-aged or elderly.
Although most emphatically not to my taste, such worship illustrates, not surprisingly, that the cultural language most natural to the vast majority of Australians of all ages is "popular" and that therefore the organ and "high culture" are a barrier to most of our fellow citizens. The great challenge for Anglicanism (and Andrew David Irwin Neaum) is, on the one hand, not to abandon the minority who need to express themselves in worship by way of "high culture" and "good taste", while at the same time popularising for the majority without compromising the essential and distinctive truths and beauties of our tradition and sound, non-fundamentalist theology.
Too often, popularising Anglican churches cease to be at all distinctive and become mere and unnecessary rivals to various fundamentalist, protestant denominations.
Our return on Monday was by way of the spectacular Bemboka Pass, Cooma Adaminaby, Kiandra and Tumbarumba where we stopped for lunch. Then on to Jingellic and along the southern shore of the longest arm of the Hume Dam, beautiful beyond telling. At Talgarno we stopped to look at and photograph the lovely, simple little church where I had celebrated the Eucharist many, many times as Rector of Wodonga, likewise at Bethanga. Then by way of Wodonga we headed for home at exactly half past six. A memorable weekend.
At Diana's suggestion we have replaced the plastic flowers in the alcoves of the east end wall of St Augustine's with temporary icons. This is to get the feel of what something similar, but more permanent might look like.
CONGRATULATIONS
Birthdays:
Kate Horder Sept 19th
Dorne Wilkinson Sept 24th
PARISH FAIR & GARDEN PARTY
Craft and Jewellery Stall
The ladies conducting this stall are very appreciative of the support of parishioners in providing craft items and jewellery. They are anxious to have a first class stall - and would therefore be delighted to receive further stock. Enquiries to Dorothy Grant (58215319) and Jeanette Berry (0402740504).
Mystery Parcels
This stall has been very popular in the past. Parcels sell for $3 but the value of their contents is often more than that. Gifts for men, boys and girls are required. The organiser of this stall, Pamela Lee, is very thankful for the support to date. Wrapping paper would also be appreciated. These items can be left at the Church Office.
Flyers
As in past years flyers are being printed giving detailed information about the Parish Fair and Garden Party. A large work force of WALKERS will be necessary to deliver flyers to all households in Shepparton. The flyers, with Area Maps, will be available for collection on Sundays, 9th and 16th October and on Wednesdays 12th and 19th October.
Weather
If the weather forecast is ‘unpleasant' for October 22nd, please note that the whole show will go on as usual, under cover but a little cramped. Last year proved we could do it.
Parish Fair Cake Stall
We will be so grateful for some cooking for the cake stall at the Fair - slices, cakes, pies, quiches, sausage rolls, & we'd love some sponges, filled with cream or lemon filling, or unfilled. In fact all sorts of goodies to eat - also Christmas shortbreads, Yo-Yo's etc. Many, many thanks. Evening Guild 58211558
Next Meeting of the Planning Group
On Thursday, 6th October at 4.00pm in the Roz's Room. All very welcome
PARISH QUIET DAY
On Saturday 10th December. All parishioners are invited to a Quiet Day on Dec 10th. It is a good opportunity, in the penitential season of Advent, to draw aside from the preparations for Christmas and focus on what it all really means. Further details closer to the time but, meanwhile, put it in your diaries and don't let it be crowded out by other, more frivolous, invitations.
CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM
The booklets are paid for and on their way. So all things being equal our first session will be on Tuesday 27th of September at 7.30pm in the Rectory. Anyone who would prefer a daytime session Gail will happily lead one. Please indicate on the sheet in the Narthex if you would like this.
EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY
Recruitment: Our EfM group is going from strength to strength. This year we have been at capacity and are excited at the prospect of being able to run two groups next year, possibly one based in Murchison. You need no formal theological training, just an interest in reflecting on what is happening in your life and where this is touched by the story of God's people. It is NOT training for ordination, it is NOT asking you to DO more and it is SO MUCH MORE than Bible study (just ask any of the current EfM group)! It is facilitating, in a supportive, fun environment, your ability to know God better as He acts in your life and through the ministry that you are already doing. For more information, ask Helen or any of the current group.
OUTREACH
The next edition of Outreach will come out before the Parish Fair so we can advertise this far and wide. Hence articles for Outreach need to be with Helen by Sunday 2nd October at the absolute latest. Leave them at the parish office or email to: hmalcolm@bigpond.com
TO NEW ZEALAND
The Rector takes the rest of his annual leave from the 14th to the 29th November in New Zealand. On the way back, Diana becomes a provisional permanent resident. Deo Gratias.
RAFFLE ROSTERS
Many, many thanks to all the good folk who have rostered themselves to sell Raffle Tickets. Most venues are now accounted for except for Archer Street which still requires volunteers. Any offers?
THANK YOU
Thank you to all who provided sandwiches, slices and labour for the Funeral Expo last Tuesday. We raised $333.60 for the, Bishop's Christmas Appeal for Anglicare. Heather P.
THE PARISH BBQ & BONFIRE
Saturday September 24th from 5pm at Pearson's, 230 Lemnos Nth Road, Lemnos. Salad, bread, sauce cordial tea & coffee provided. BYO meat, chair or rug to sit on and other drinks. Bring your children & grandchildren. All are welcome.
FREE TICKETS
We have been given 4 passes to the G.V Rail Club Exhibition which is being held in the hall this weekend 17th & 18th September. So if you would like a FREE ticket for today see one of the clergy.
FRIENDSHIP
The Friendship Group meets on Tuesday 20th Sept at 2pm, "at home" in the Narthex. Please bring an item of interest.
SAVE THE CHILDREN
Shepparton Branch of Save the Children are holding a fashion parade at Kialla Gardens Activities Centre on Wed 5th October, starting at 10am with a raffle & trading table. Entry $6. Devonshire morning tea.
SENIORS WEEK: FACTS, FOOD AND FUN
The Social Responsibilities Committee is planning and sponsoring an imaginative educational and entertainment occasion for the elderly including a lunch on the 5th of Oct. from 11.30am to 2.30pm. Book the date!
COME INTO THE GARDEN MAUD
There's a Gardening Working Bee this Saturday the 24th. Spring has sprung, so spring along to our working bee and give a hand in our beautiful gardens. All welcome.
ROLLING ALONG
We are puddling along through the responses to our stewardship programme, Still some to reply, but overall a wonderful parish effort. Great work by the dedicated volunteers has meant we have been able to be in contact with nearly everyone on the roll. H.F.
READINGS NEXT WEEK
Exodus 17:1-7, Philippians 2:1-13
FOR THE DIARY
Oct 1st Car Boot Sale/Christ Church Murchsion
Oct 1st Wedding 2pm
Oct 2nd Next Outreach deadline
Oct 5th Seniors Week: Facts, Fun, Food 11.30-2.30pm
Oct 6th Parish Fair & Garden Party Meeting/4pml
Oct 8th Weddings 10.00am, 2.00pm and 3.30pm
Oct 9th Pet Service 10.30am
Oct 11th Social Responsibilities Meeting
Oct 11th "Moving On" Grief Support Group
Oct 16th St Luke's Service for the Medical Profession
Oct 22nd Parish Fair & Garden Party
Oct 23rd Confirmation
Oct 29th Wedding
Oct 29th Garden Working Bee
Nov 12th Wedding 2pm
Nov 19th Wedding 1pm
Nov 19th Wedding 3pm
Nov 26th Wedding 2pm
Dec 3rd Women's Breakfast
Dec 10th Parish Quiet Day
Dec 10th Men's Breakfast
Dec 10th Wedding
Duties for 18th September 2011
Readers 8.30 Norman Mitchelmore, Victoria Heenan
Readers 10.30 Greg Pestell, Verna Pestell
Servers 8.30 Michelle Woodyard, Beth Brewer
Servers 10.30 Zeb, Greg, Joe
Intercessors Norm Weaver, Verna Pestell
Euc. Assts 8.30 Carole Henderson, John Griffin
Euc. Assts 10.30 Jenny Pleming, Linda Prosser
Welcomers 8.30 Judy Lloyd, Pat Griffin
Welcomers 10.30 John Pleming, Joe Fernandez
Sidespeople 8.30 Joe Pearson, Norm Mitchelmore
Sidespeople 10.30 Charlotte Brewer, Nola Brewer
Tea 8.30 Shirley Dean
Welcoming Table Judy Lloyd
Mowing None this week
Altar Linen/Sept Bev Reither
Duties for 25th September 2011
Readers 8.30 John Wellman, Pat Griffin
Readers 10.30 Linda Prosser, Jenny Pleming
Servers 8.30 Beth Brewer, Michelle Woodyard
Servers 10.30 Jenny, Vanita, Valerie
Intercessors Carole Henderson, Celebrant
Euc. Assts 8.30 Bev Condon, Heather Fitzgerald
Euc. Assts 10.30 Joe Fernandez, Greg Pestell
Welcomers 8.30 Dulcie Ackland, Eileen Quaife
Welcomers 10.30 Nola Brewer, Charlotte Brewer
Sidespeople 8.30 Gwyn Cowland, Merv Cowland
Sidespeople 10.30 Mitch Macheta, John Pleming
Tea 8.30 Pat/Barb
Welcoming Table Beverley Walsh
Mowing John Pleming, John Wellman
Altar Linen/Sept Bev Reither
REQUESTS FOR PRAYER
Margaret Aldous, Alan Akers, Deb Bagley, Liam Bognar, Joy & Ian Carmen, Ross & Helen Dainton, Frank Harder, Angela Hawthorne, Katherine Holt, John & Kate Horder, Thelma Irwin, Ross Judd, Elsie Lieschke, Judy Lloyd, Bronwyn Mitchell, Margaret Kidman, Olive Paez, Albert Oxenbury, Isabelle Richards, Patricia Sparkes, Peter Swindells, David, Peter, David & Judith, Kaye, Keith & Bonny, Lewis, Suzanne.
Rest in Peace: Maisie Prideaux
Anniversaries: Bessie Jones 18th, Gerald Green 19th, Abbey Jamieson Norman Ellis, Mavis Tryde, Douglas Collas 20th, Emily Irwin, Peter Adams, Lorna Brown 22nd Allan Hamilton 23rd, William Poulter, Olive Crouch, Gladys Webber, Alan McDonald, Stanley Walker 24th.
THIS WEEK IN THE PARISH
Monday 19th September (Rector's day off)
7.45am Mattins & Eucharist - Lady Chapel
5.00pm Arise 255/Youth Group
Tuesday 20th September
7.45am Mattins & Eucharist - Lady Chapel
10.00am Playgroup - Roz's Room
11.00am Shepparton Aged Care
2.00pm Friendship Group/Narthex
4.15pm Confirmation Class - Library
Wednesday 21st September
7.45am Mattins only - Lady Chapel
10.00am Eucharist - St Augustine's
5.30am People Supporting People
7.30pm Parish Council
Thursday 22nd September
7.45am Mattins & Eucharist - Lady Chapel
10.15am Eucharist - Grutzner
11.00am Eucharist - Ave Maria
11.00am Eucharist - Harmony
5.30pm Choir Practice - Rectory
Friday 23rd September
7.45am Mattins & Eucharist - Lady Chapel
Saturday 24th September (Associate Priest's Day off)
7.45am Mattins - Lady Chapel
8.00am Mens Breakfast/Euroa
9.00am Garden Working Bee
5.00pm BBQ and Bonfire - 230 Lemnos North Road
6.00pm Vigil Eucharist - Lady Chapel
Sunday 25th September
8.30am Sung Eucharist - St Augustine's
10.30am Eucharist - St. Augustine's/Baptisms
8.45am Eucharist - St. Luke's Dookie
10.45am Eucharist - St. Mary's Katandra West
5.30pm Evening Prayer