Parish Connections, February-March 2018

CPAORNISNHECTIONS

february/march 2018

Refugees seeking a home
in Australia

allan asher

The continuing drama and tragedy of 1,300 people A housing crisis for refugees
held in the immigration detention system1 has
obscured the growing homelessness plight of many Successful resettlement and integration of refugees
refugees living in Australia. This story sets out depends on access to safe, suitable, affordable, and
the challenges facing many refugees, the housing secure housing. Recent research2 published by the
crisis confronting the #letthemstay group, how Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute
governments, churches and community groups are (AHURI) shows that refugees continue to confront
responding, and what needs to happen. significant barriers to full participation in the housing
market and across social, cultural, and economic

continued overleaf

1. Department of Immigration and Border Protection Immigration Detention and Community Statistics. At 30 November 2017, there were 1,301 people
in immigration detention facilities, including 988 in immigration detention on the mainland and 313 in immigration detention on Christmas Island. A
further 454 people were living in the community after being approved for a residence determination and 19,907 were living in the community after grant
of a Bridging Visa E.

2. Flatau, P., Smith, J., Carson, G., Miller, J., Burvill, A. and Brand, R. (2015) The housing and homelessness journeys of refugees in Australia, AHURI Final
Report No.256. Melbourne: Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute Limited. Accessed on 21 January 2018.

Refugees seeking a home in Australia continued

domains in Australia. The report finds that ‘There is a Continental Europe and the UK also reveal a
sizeable group where housing affordability problems consistent set of challenges faced by refugees. In all
remain with one-fifth seeking housing cost relief by countries, refugees are recognised as a group that is
placing themselves on the public and community particularly susceptible to housing instability and
housing waitlists.’ On the northern beaches of Sydney, homelessness. In each case, levels of funding and the
there is currently a waiting list for priority housing systems of support are overly complex, inadequate
which starts at 2 years but stretches out to 15 years and in some cases, non-existent.
for lower priority clients. (Clients are given priority
on the basis of factors such as, the number of children Factors contributing to the low incomes of many
or if they suffer a debilitating illness. Those who are refugee households are: high unemployment rates,
merely poor are given a low priority.) low levels of proficiency in English, a lack of
recognition of foreign qualifications, and a lack of
Community and government job experience within the country—all of which
responses tend to result in refugee households being relegated
to unskilled positions, and therefore, low income
While rental housing affordability is a growing brackets and a consequent housing crisis.
problem across Australia for low income people,
lower than average employment rates for recently According to the AHURI study, structural obstacles
arrived refugees make homelessness an outcome for such as language and employment difficulties
many. Poor job prospects not only prevent access to are magnified by ‘a lack of ongoing support and
suitable accommodation in preferred locations, but discrimination by landlords (on the grounds of
lock some refugees into chronic housing affordability ethnic, racial, or religious identity, refugee status,
complications. Increasing levels of discrimination in or on household size or income)’. Such structural
the housing market and elsewhere have been observed, obstacles were identified as significant barriers to
thus confirming a continued slide in community accessing the housing market.
concern for families who have escaped torture and
persecution and are seeking a safe new life. What needs to be done?

On arrival in Australia, refugees can access temporary Given the pivotal role of homelessness services and
support from the Red Cross or one of many support other emergency services in helping refugees and
agencies. But once a refugee status determination is asylum seekers source long and short-term and crisis
made, support often ends, throwing needy families accommodation, it must be recognised that these
into the care of homelessness support agencies. Even facilities are not adequately resourced to manage the
for refugees who do qualify for Centrelink benefits, current accommodation demands. Essential resources
$500 per fortnight just will not pay the rent. include provision of language training, interpreters,
and other multicultural services as well as the
In common with other elements of the ‘Border provision of rental subsidies and financial support.
Protection Policy’, Australia’s resettlement policy Refugees who are facing dire economic circumstances,
for asylum seekers and refugees is generally because support from the Red Cross and other forms
unsympathetic, which has a significant impact on of financial and social assistance have ended, are in
the accommodation and employment prospects of grave need of such assistance.
refugees and asylum seekers. Furthermore, as the
type of support is dependent upon their class of visa, As a multicultural society, Australia should
some people are eligible for housing support and incorporate more active and supportive educational
basic benefits while others are excluded. This results and promotional campaigns around refugees and
in some remaining unable to work or access benefits, asylum seekers to support integration and encourage
without any governmental support. Without both greater social links between individual
the support of Churches and other not-for-profit refugees and other Australians, to reduce the impact
organisations, especially refugee support networks of discrimination against refugees. Educational
and homelessness services, these particularly campaigns aimed at all Australians might also raise
vulnerable groups face life on the streets. awareness of the plight of refugees and asylum
seekers, and encourage integration of recent refugees
The decline in public support for refugees is not into Australian society.
unique to Australia. Policies adopted in Canada,

PAGE 2 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

Refugees seeking a home in Australia continued

Evidence suggests3 that the prevalence and impact ŪŪ Visa holders working for free in exchange for non-
of racism worsens for refugees the longer they stay certified accommodation programs.
in Australia, perhaps because of wider exposure to
Australian society. Discrimination appears to be a Churches respond to refugee
major impediment to successful movement through benefit cuts
the housing market and this prejudice comes from the In October 2017, the government announced a new
torrent of negative reportage in elements of the media, visa regime for refugees from Nauru and Manus
and populist outbursts from politicians, neighbours, Island currently in Australia. The ‘Final Departure
landlords, real estate agents and the general community. Bridging Visas’ provide for immediate removal of
income support and accommodation from around
Exploitation of refugees. 400 refugees whom the government deems need to
A 2017 submission by the Uniting Church to a be removed. The government has been trying for
government inquiry found strong evidence of the years to remove people from this group (known now
workplace exploitation of seasonal workers in the as ‘#letthemstay’) who have come to Australia for
agricultural sector4. The submission states that: medical treatment, including complex surgery and
‘The Fair Work Ombudsman regards temporary long-term mental health treatment, or to give birth.
visa workers as especially vulnerable to exploitation Some have been victims of rape and assault offshore.
due to difficulties in understanding and exercising The 400 also include 116 children, many enrolled in
their legal entitlements because of age and language Australian schools, and 37 babies born in Australia to
barriers’. However, mistreatment is not limited to asylum seeker and refugee parents.
seasonal workers. Harvest labour agencies and refugee
resettlement groups have said that poor treatment of In a dramatic response, the Anglican Church in
workers is becoming entrenched in some businesses5. Queensland and the State Government of Victoria
have both pledged to provide emergency assistance
The Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council and even asylum to the refugees. A recent report in
works to settle new arrivals and refugees in north west The Guardian newspaper6 quoted the Anglican Dean of
Victoria and frequently finds work for these groups. Brisbane, the Very Reverend Peter Catt as saying:
Executive Officer Dean Wickham said there was an
established culture of underpayment and mistreatment When this government is cruel, the community
in some areas, meaning workers other than seasonal will be kind in response to visa changes”. He said,
work visa holders were experiencing exploitation. “Churches across Australia will offer sanctuary
to any refugees and asylum seekers left homeless
Forms of workplace abuse experienced by refugees and destitute by changes to the government’s
include: visa regime. A network of churches, aid agencies,
community groups and refugee advocacy
ŪŪ Underpayment or non-payment of wages; organisations would offer housing, financial
support, food, clothing, medicines, and other
ŪŪ Visa holders offering (or being induced to offer) necessities to assist refugees and asylum seekers
payment to employers and third parties for who have lost the right to government financial
assistance to gain work rights; support and housing.

ŪŪ An increased dependency on the employer by the What next?
visa holder seeking employment The current mood of fear and even hatred towards
refugees, which prevails across sections of the Australian
ŪŪ Sexual harassment and workplace health and safety
issues; continued overleaf

ŪŪ Employers recruiting workers with the offer of
unpaid work; and,

3. Beer and Foley (2003, p.27)

4. https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/Visasupport/Documents/visa-simplification-submissions/uniting-church.pdf#search=offshore%20detention%20of%20
asylum%20seekers

5. http://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2016-10-19/nrn-worker-mistreatment/7945966

6. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/aug/30/churches-offer-sanctuary-to-asylum-seekers-left-homeless-by-coalition-cuts

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 3

Refugees seeking a home in Australia continued

community, is a sad demonstration that Christian St James’ supports refugees by making donations
biblical values have lost their saliency in our community. to the Asylum Seekers Centre in Newtown by
providing food vouchers and fresh food about
The work of groups such as the Australian Churches every six weeks, to the Christmas Bowl and
Refugee Taskforce, currently led by the Dean of other aid organisations helping to support these
Brisbane, and smaller, local initiatives by hundreds of vulnerable people. St James’ has also proposed
churches and community groups is to be encouraged. to support a family from Syria who are in Jordan
However, if we are to reverse the trend of a drift to and we are waiting to hear further details. We
homelessness of thousands of refugee families, much will need a minimum of $15,000 and $13,000 has
more is needed. There is simply no excuse for the been raised so far. We will need volunteer help
relative lack of action by most Christians comfortable when the time comes.
in their own homes, churches and prejudices. If you
want to know more or want to help, check out this For further information about ‘Who is my
list of organisations making a difference https://www. neighbour?’, the St James’ programme supporting
refugeecouncil.org.au/takeaction/let-them-stay-donate/ refugees, please contact Libby Hindmarsh on
0404 492 444 or via the Parish Office.
Allan Asher is a senior consultant to the United Nations and
a long-time campaigner for refugee rights. He was a former
Commonwealth Ombudsman.

PARISH DIRECTORY WHO’S WHO AND HOW TO CONTACT THEM

THE PARISH OFFICE Level 1, 169–171 Phillip Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
PHONE 8227 1300
FAX 9232 4182

WEBSITE www.sjks.org.au
OFFICE E-MAIL [email protected]

RECTOR The Reverend Andrew Sempell 8227 1303 (m 0419 018 225)

associate RECTOR The Reverend John Stewart 8227 1304 (AH 9410 3077)

DIRECTOR of ST JAMES’ INSTITUTE Christopher Waterhouse 8227 1305

HEAD OF MUSIC Warren Trevelyan-Jones 8227 1306

ORGANIST Alistair Nelson 8227 1308

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Dianne Ward 8227 1300

ACCOUNTANT Michelle Chan 8227 1302

Communications & MEDIA manager Brooke Shelley 8227 1301

PARISH CONNECTIONS EDITOR Brooke Shelley [email protected]

PUBLICATIONS EDITOR Sue Mackenzie [email protected]

counselling@St james’ Loretta King 8227 1300

Pastoral Care Coordinator Chris Cheetham 0407 017 377

Facilities Manager Tony Papadopoulos 8227 1312

VERGERs Graeme Reid/Max Singer 8227 1312/0412 295 678

PAGE 4 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

MAKING AUSTRALIA GREAT AGAIN? associate professor
Michael Horsburgh am

What makes a nation a question implicitly raises the that was great would simply be so.
great? possibility of racism. It would not be concerned about
its status. Greatness is, however,
The title of this article refers to the Hidden, and not so hidden, racism different from happiness, which is
claim by President Trump that he is an inevitable feature of claims to a quality appreciated by the person.
will make America great again. In remake national greatness. In the Greatness is a judgement formed
essence, it is a rhetorical question, words of the Sydney Morning Herald from outside. To form it about
allowing the hearer to form his or editorial of 15 January 2018, the call oneself is hubris. A great nation
her own definition of greatness and to renew greatness feeds ‘nativist will be too busy doing whatever it
hope that the vainglorious leader populism’. Dr John Hewson, in the should. It will not evaluate itself in
will deliver to those specifications. Sydney Morning Herald of 19 January this way or even care how others
In that sense, the question is 2018, commented on the increasing evaluate it.
meaningless, a mere device in an use of prejudice as a political tool.
election campaign. The question It seems to be a universal tendency, More importantly, material
also assumes a past ‘golden age’ heightening not only internal boasting is not the issue. The real
now gone but possibly recoverable. divisions, but international conflict. question is moral. The account of
I am reminded of the pseudo- Hewson calls it a ‘global tragedy’. the exodus from Egypt repeats the
Confucian saying, “He who talks of It is too high a price for delusive nationalistic items of the earlier
good old days has bad old memory”. national greatness. biblical accounts but adds, amongst
The question also has a competitive the many laws for the Hebrews,
implication. If all nations were the Next, the people are numerous. a moral basis for evaluating the
same, no such judgement could Added to that, however, is God’s nation. They are enjoined not to
arise. But entering an international promise of blessing and a great ‘wrong or oppress a resident alien’
competition of this kind may have name, which may be taken to mean or ‘abuse any widow or orphan’
disastrous consequences. flourishing and famous. Being (Exodus 22:21–22). These themes
homogenous, numerous, flourishing were taken up by the prophets
If one is inclined to take the and famous are not really sufficient as they sought to account for the
question seriously, it begs several qualities to form the basis of many disasters that befell their
issues, the first of which is the remaking, although apparently the nation. Isaiah begins by enjoining
concept of a nation. Next is what main thrust of Donald Trump’s the nation to ‘seek justice, rescue
greatness in a nation might be. campaign. It struck home to those the oppressed, defend the orphan,
The Biblical concept of a ‘great who felt that social change had plead for the widow’ (Isaiah 1:17).
nation’ first appears in Genesis left them behind. Yet, even Donald He condemns those who ‘write
12:1–3, where God calls Abram Trump cannot turn back the oppressive statutes, turn aside
away from his Chaldean homeland. progress of history. Social change is the needy from justice … rob the
The promise is that he will start rarely reversible. Australia already poor … of their right’ and despoil
a great nation. Given that Abram fails, fortunately, on homogeneity. the widows (Isaiah 10:1–2). Other
was a single person, that original We debate the number of persons prophets do the same.
promise was not about a nation who can live in the continent, but
state. It was more about a tribe. the homogeneity horse has long continued overleaf
Later developments that relied on since escaped. We appear to be
this promise took on nation state flourishing in a relative sense and
characteristics. Nevertheless, the have our own form of notoriety.
first characteristic here is that the
people of a nation are of single Overall, it appears to me that
descent. Whatever that might have ‘greatness’, like ‘happiness’, is not a
meant in biblical times, it is hard goal to be achieved, but a product
to conceive of such a nation today. emerging from behaviour and
Even those countries/nation states circumstance. It is unlikely to be
that have a relatively homogenous achieved by design. If it happens,
population cannot claim to be of a it will hardly be noticed. People
single descent. Given the diversity who are happy, simply are so. They
of most modern nations, such do not need to rejoice. A country

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 5

making australia great again? continued

In the New Testament, Matthew’s criticised, civil debate requires extent. Australia once had a
parable of the Last Judgement constraint. Whilst everything can reputation, deserved or not, for
makes care for the most vulnerable and, on occasion, should be debated, its attention to equality. Australia
the standard by which the nations not everything that it is possible has an enviable history of policies
will be judged (Matthew 25:31–46). to say should be said. Restraint intended to reduce poverty. There
This parable ends Matthew’s arises from the need to respect is little evidence of such policies
account of the ministry of Jesus others and to treat them in an today, apart from an insistence on
and the action moves directly to openly respectful way. To use the supply-side economics, the so-
the Passion. We may, therefore, former Attorney-General’s phrase, called ‘trickle down effect’. Do not
conclude that this parable has a everyone may have the “right to be expect to be drowned in the trickle.
significant place. a bigot”. No one has the right to Some welfare policies are more
demean others in public. reminiscent of 19th century poor
More recently, William Temple, laws than serious attempts to deal
when Archbishop of Canterbury, Both sides of contemporary politics with the here and now.
‘looked at the ravages of inequality, in Australia, and elsewhere, use
despair and bankruptcy in the what they call debate solely for the Nationalism is increasing in
1930s and its contribution to the purposes of scoring points at the Australia, as elsewhere. Nationalism
rise of totalitarian states in the disadvantage of their opponents. is the dark side of the proposals
run-up to the WWII. When he They cannot be surprised if the to recreate greatness. Nationalism
wrote Christianity and Social Order general public has lost faith in is at the root of xenophobia
in 1942, he articulated the basis national and state politics. Why and the fear of immigrants. It is
of a just and fair social order and should it be otherwise? The cost of at the root of the pretence that
human flourishing that included this is very high. We need a system Australia’s borders are at threat. It
access to free education, free that is workable. This is a different is at the root of the dog-whistling
healthcare, [and] decent housing’ question from agreeing with the aspects of contemporary political
(William Temple Foundation, policies of the current government. debate. We lack anyone in public
8 December 2014). Temple’s We will all disagree with policies office sufficiently capable of the
approach had a significant effect from time to time and as the leadership to turn back this tide.
on the development of social governments change. A system
security and welfare policies in relying only on political point- Attention to such questions
post-war Australia. scoring is not workable. It prevents conforms with the moral test
bipartisan approaches on even the proposed by the Hebrew prophets
Does Australia have most obvious of policies. and Jesus himself. If we wish to
anything to recover? make Australia great, whether
Civilised debate can happen only again or anew or now, we will need
To put this question another way, is on the basis of truth. What is true to attend to such a morality. Since
Australia at risk of losing anything? may itself be debated, but only on this article began with the USA, it
It’s arguable that recovery is not the the basis of evidence. There are no will end with a statement made on
way to go. Circumstances change such things as ‘alternative facts’. 1 November 1977 by then US Vice
and, even if we have lost something, Truth may not be comfortable and President, Hubert Humphrey.
it will need to be recovered into civilised debate does not exclude “[T]he moral test of government
a new situation. It would be making people appropriately is how that government treats
much more productive to have uncomfortable. It cannot exist on those who are in the dawn of
a positive debate about meeting the disregard of facts. life, the children; those who are
contemporary challenges. I will, in the twilight of life, the elderly;
however, make several suggestions. Finally, I note that, worldwide, those who are in the shadows of
inequality is increasing. It may be life; the sick, the needy and the
One of the casualties of the current that the living standards of most handicapped.”
political situation has been civilised countries have risen over the last
debate. Such a loss is more general century. To say that is not to say Associate Professor Michael Horsburgh
than in Australia. It is observable in that the resources giving rise to AM is Diocesan Reader and a member of
the USA and in Europe. Although such increases are well distributed, The St James’ Singers.
political correctness may be even if everyone benefits to an

PAGE 6 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

Counselling connection loretta king

IT’S ALL IN THE BALANCE: MAKING
STRESS MANAGEMENT A LIFESTYLE!

2017 has come and gone…so quickly life goals, overwhelming stress is distress. Like bad eating habits,
it seems for so many, while 2018 is disenabling and diminishes our these substances can increase
upon us with all its possibilities capacity for achievement and life vulnerability to negative emotions
for a better life. In past end-of- satisfaction. In this regard, our daily (“what goes up must come down!”),
year Parish Connections issues I lifestyle or work-life balance should providing temporary gratification
have discussed the importance enhance happiness and include the at the expense of possible long term
of achieving a life-work balance things that keep our stress levels suffering. The earlier the exposure,
which supports this in all its under control. For this purpose I the more risk of a series of damages
aspects. In this article I particularly have outlined below a number of later on, from adult addiction to
want to focus on methods to cope evidence-based stress reducing other major health crises, including
with stress and reduce its negative daily practices we might consider heart disease, cancer and permanent
impacts on our potentiality to incorporating as a way of life: brain damage.
flourish in all the important
realms of our lives. Indeed, current Eat a Healthy, Well-Balanced Get Sufficient Sleep: We all
statistics show that stress levels Diet: It is important to have need an appropriate amount of
are at their highest throughout a balanced diet containing sleep—neither too much nor
the world due to rising costs nutritional whole foods, as well too little. Sleep deprivation can
of living, low wage growth, job as plenty of water to fight fatigue cause memory loss, irritability,
losses resulting from globalisation and other ailments associated with depression, and a lack of focus
and changing technologies, and dehydration. Try to eat appropriate and concentration. If you are not
overwhelming competitiveness, portions to sustain energy and getting an appropriate amount
work expectations and growth—not too much (overeating of sleep (ideally 7-8 hours) try to
commitments. On a broader scale, can cause obesity and illnesses lower your intake of stimulants,
stress levels have been exacerbated associated with it) and not too such as caffeine, rich food, late
by acts of terror, wars and the little (food deprivation creates night work or studies which can
displacement of peoples around the other problems, e.g. low energy, psych you up before bedtime, and
world creating a refugee crisis, and disorientation, osteoporosis, etc.). try to refrain from using computers
the impact of climate change that Aim to cut down on simple sugars and mobile phones within an hour
has led to much natural devastation and carbs (e.g. Coke, cookies) of bedtime as this can reduce levels
and loss. As individuals we can that supply a temporary energy of melatonin, a sleep inducing
feel limited and powerless in the boost which can soon turn to chemical which regulates our
face of such highly complex and lethargy, lack of concentration and circadian rhythm or internal clock.
often seemingly insurmountable depression. (There is truth to the
problems which, in the final adage “we are what we eat!”) Most continued overleaf
analysis, demand greater moral, foods are okay eaten in moderation.
ethical, equitable, responsible Also, eating mindfully (focussing
and smarter governance from our on the act of eating using all of your
elected political leaders. What we senses without distraction) is great
do have control over, however, are for de-stressing and digestion.
our personal attitudes, choices and
actions, and in this regard we can Avoid Substance Abuse: Substance
activate changes in our own lives use in the form of alcohol, tobacco,
that help to preserve our bodies, non-prescription drugs, the abuse
minds, hearts and spirits and emit of prescription drugs and the over
some positivity in the wake of such consumption of dietary stimulants
crises. While it is evidenced that such as caffeine can alter the
mild to moderate stress is actually body’s chemistry, metabolism and
good for our health and an essential immune system, causing a vicious
motivator in accomplishing our cycle of dependence (craving) and

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 7

counselling connection continued

You can also try a brief progressive you do so, try to remain patient. resulting from your letting issues
muscle relaxation exercise before If you find your mind drifting, accumulate. So itemise your
you go to bed in order to lower the acknowledge it calmly, without priorities, create an action plan
activity in your brain and induce judgement, and slowly bring it back and pace yourself through it by
sleep. For example, while lying to focus on your breathing. You breaking things down into doable
down, tense your feet for 10 seconds can also practise mindfulness with smaller steps.
as you breathe in, then relax them any activity, for example, when you
for 10 seconds as you breathe out; are walking concentrate on how it Nurture Yourself Spiritually:
tense your legs for 10 seconds as feels as your feet touch the ground, Perform intentional acts of
you breathe in, then relax them maintaining an awareness of what kindness and gratitude, connect
for 10 seconds as you breathe you see, hear and smell around you. with nature’s wonder and beauty,
out. Continue with your thighs, Mindfulness takes practice, but and make time for personal rituals
abdomen, chest, shoulders, arms, it’s one of the most powerful stress such as meditation, a creative work,
hands, neck, and face, breathing in release interventions. Studies show or prayer that can enrich your heart
deeply and releasing the air slowly, that in just minutes after practising and satisfy your soul’s search for
allowing all stress to leave your mindfulness, we experience feelings deeper meaning and purpose.
body with your breath. of calm and contentment, as well as
heightened awareness and empathy. While the above lifestyle choices
Exercise Daily: Exercise or And the research goes further to and strategies are by no means an
moderately strenuous activity is confirm that regular mindfulness exhaustive list of things you can do
great for physical health (e.g. blood meditation can permanently to reduce stress and increase your
flow, bone strength, muscle tone, rewire the brain to raise levels of optimal potential for life satisfaction,
flexibility). Exercise also releases happiness, lower stress, and even they could be considered a really
feel-good chemicals in the brain improve immune function. good start to achieving a healthier
which create long lasting positive and more rewarding and satisfying
emotions and feelings of mastery Connect Socially: Try to make year to come!
that reduce stress and help us get time for friendships and loved ones.
into flow—that ‘locked in’ feeling Partaking in social activities, such Wishing you all the best,
of total engagement that we as joining a church group, a choir,
usually get when we’re at our most or any other positive group activity Loretta
productive. So try to set aside at provides us with a buffer against
least 30 minutes a day for walking, isolation and loneliness. Loretta King is a psychotherapist,
dancing, running, skipping, counsellor and coach. She specialises in
swimming, or any other exercise Practise Journalling: Try to make many areas of mental health and wellbeing,
or activity that gets you moving, some time to journal your thoughts, and works with individuals of all ages,
stretching and using some muscle. feelings, hopes, dreams, intentions, couples, families and groups. She is
etc. on a regular basis. Putting available by appointment at Counselling
Treat Physical Illness: Don’t everything on a page can improve @ St James’.
wait too long to attend to illness. perspective and release tension and
Untreated, it can develop into stress. It’s also a proven remedy for
something more serious, as well writer’s block!
as lower resistance to anxiety or
depression. Create ‘To Do Lists’: Creating a
list of things to do on a weekly/
Practise Mindfulness: Mindfulness monthly/annual basis can get you
is a form of self-awareness training motivated in the direction of your
adapted from Buddhist mindfulness goals and priorities. The very act of
meditation. It’s a practice of paying completing each task and ticking
attention—knowing where our them off the list brings a sense of
attention is and being able to self-efficacy and accomplishment
choose where to direct it. So take providing further momentum to
a few minutes each day to watch move forward with your plans.
your breath go in and out. While This prevents a build-up of stress

PAGE 8 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

Young people serve at St James’ Anahera Chessum

As has been the tradition for the from our youngest member (who
past two years, at the Service of was five years old, who had carried
Christ the King last November, St the Gospel into the service, and
James’ Church engaged a full team after she had completed her role).
of young servers. This was a great She asked, “Do you think next time
achievement and brought forth I might be able to bring a book
new energy and passion for the from home? Wouldn’t that be nice?”
church. By observing the new team What a perfect time to sit with her
of young servers execute their skills and explain what the Gospel is and
with confidence and dedication its importance.
for the very first time, there was
a sense of pride coming from the Personally, I am proud to be a part
congregation. While the nerves and of this special serving team and to
anxiety amongst the young servers be able to share such dedication
were high, we managed to perform and devotion with my peers. If
our tasks with professionalism, as there are any young people who
though we had done this many
times. continued overleaf

Since this was such an exceptional
achievement, the St James’
Servers’ Guild, in conjunction
with Kids@Church, is branching
out to include our young people
in more services in future. The
Kids@Church children were also
seen doing meet and greet duties
as Sidespersons, and helping to
take up the offertory. This is a
fantastic way for the young people
to observe and contribute to the
services and meet the parishioners.
By contributing to the services,
important lessons are learnt, such
as communication, team work,
focus, time management, and a new
level of dedication to the Lord. It
was also evident that within the
group a strong connection was
formed and friendships were built.

By encouraging young people to
serve together, it allows for them
as individuals to grow to become
more confident and enthusiastic
with the church’s involvement.
It has become evident that after
young people join the serving team,
a huge sense of satisfaction occurs
and you can see how proud they
are of their achievements. On one
occasion, there was even a request

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 9

young people serve at st james’ continued

are interested in serving, please For more information contact
feel free to discuss this with The Christine Cheetham via email on
Head Server, Christine Cheetham. [email protected]
Serving is also an approved task
for the NSW Premier Volunteer Anahera Chessum is a parishioner at St
Awards for students—the hours James’ and a member of the serving team.
completed contribute towards the
awards on this scheme.

The serving team last year consisted
of:

Boat Person – Christopher McIntyre

Holding the Gospel – Sarah
McIntyre

Crucifer – Jack Maddock

Acolyte – Edward Farrow eldest being 17 years’ old. This
was Edward Farrow’s first time
Acolyte – Alexandra Farrow serving with the support of his
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profile: Dr Donald Markwell brooke shelley

Congratulations on your school was about 200km away. My the University of Melbourne to
appointment as Head of St Paul’s mother’s decision, which my father try to offer collegiate education,
College within the University of accepted, that the family move which is increasingly comparable
Sydney. What drew you to this to Brisbane, solved the problem with the best in the world, and
position? of how my brothers and sisters seeking philanthropic support
and I would get an education for scholarships to make this
Thank you very much—and thank beyond grade 7. I am reminded of available to the best students
you for your very warm welcome the phrase ‘talent is everywhere, regardless of their means;
to St James’, with which St Paul’s opportunity is not’. This move for
College has a close friendship the sake of our education was the ŪŪ curriculum reform at the
going back to the founding of the first landmark in my life pointing University of Western Australia
College in the 1850s. St Paul’s is to the power of education to open to offer broader undergraduate
one of the most distinguished up opportunities for people. A education, leading into more
residential academic communities succession of scholarships, which specialised or professional
in Australia, and a college in the I was fortunate enough to win, postgraduate education, while
Anglican tradition in one of the then opened up new and exciting also working hard to expand
finest universities in the country. I horizons for me to keep learning— access to the university for
believe passionately in the power for secondary school, to go to students from disadvantaged
of such collegiate education to Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar after communities, including in
enhance the all-round education of graduating from the University of remote areas of the state.
university students. This involves Queensland, and then to spend time
opportunities for the immersion of in Princeton as a visiting student. Your work with Federal
students in residential colleges in government ministers shows you
the academic, broader intellectual, You’ve held leadership positions have a passion for education. Can
cultural, sporting, spiritual, at the University of Western you pinpoint what drives this
social, community service, and Australia, Trinity College, passion?
other aspects of life in a college Melbourne, and Merton
community. This is in the tradition College, Oxford. Can you share My own experience in some of the
of most of the great universities memorable highlights of these finest universities in the world,
of the world, most of which place positions (personal milestones, especially at Oxford and Princeton,
strong emphasis on students living anecdotes)? has given me a passion to try to
in college, or at least living on or ensure that Australian students
near campus—integrating learning No doubt, partly because of my can get an education of comparable
and living in very enriching ways. personal experience of how access quality here in Australia. The way
In such college communities, there to excellent education can be our universities have been funded
is an opportunity and an obligation life-changing, I have always been and regulated has constrained
to uphold the core values for which committed to helping students get
the institution stands, including access to—and take advantage of—
dignity and respect for all. This the finest educational opportunities
is, as it always is, an exciting and we can offer. So in each of my
important challenge. educational leadership roles I have
tried to create opportunities for
You were Rhodes Scholar for students to get the best possible
Queensland. Would you like to education, and to support them in
say something about your origins taking fullest advantage of those
and what led you to study at opportunities. This has involved:
Oxford and Princeton?
ŪŪ working in Oxford to ensure the
I was born and lived while a highest quality of teaching and
young boy in a little town of learning in my subjects—politics
about 500 people in the outback and international relations;
of Queensland, around 1000km
west of Brisbane. The nearest high ŪŪ working at Trinity College in

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 11

profile: dr donald markwell continued

this, and I have worked to reduce you’re particularly looking to be confirmed as an Anglican
those constraints. Not only is it forward to experiencing? while I was a Fellow of Merton
important in a civilised society to College, Oxford. This has led on
provide high-quality education, but I first came to St James’ in 1991, to my participation in various
it is crucial if Australia is to be a when I spoke at a beautiful Anglican churches, including the
truly competitive economy, with memorial service for a close opportunities to serve as a Lay
rising living standards in a globally friend, a lawyer, who had found Canon of St Paul’s Cathedral in
competitive ‘knowledge economy’ comfort and spiritual support at Melbourne and then of St George’s
of the 21st century. At the same St James’. Some years later, I was Cathedral in Perth. Both of these
time, my own experience—as a boy back for a very moving funeral for Cathedrals, like St James’, offer to
from the bush whose life has been his widow, in whose life St James’ the community a rich Anglican
landmarked by the opening-up of had also meant a great deal. This liturgy, and the chance to engage
educational opportunities—has showed me the important role with faith in ways that are
given me a passion to ensure that that St James’ plays in the life of intellectually rigorous and enriched
access to this world-class education the Sydney community. When I by great music and art. At Trinity
is offered as fairly as possible to the was Warden of Trinity College College, Melbourne, I saw again
most deserving students regardless at the University of Melbourne, how college chaplaincy can play
of background or means. One which plays an important role in a profoundly important role in
aspect of my work on this has been Anglican theological education the lives of individuals and their
collaborating with Julie Bishop nationally, I became further community—including spreading
on policy development of the New conscious of the important role the mustard seeds of Christian
Colombo Plan, which supports that St James’ plays as a beacon in faith, and providing pastoral care
Australian undergraduates to study the Anglican Church, both locally of great value, especially at times
abroad and undertake internships and nationally. I am delighted that of distress. With my appointment
in the Indo-Pacific region—creating this role continues strongly under as the first lay Head of St Paul’s
exciting opportunities for our Fr Andrew Sempell’s leadership, College in its history of over 160
students and, we hope, over time and I value greatly his support and years, we are appointing a College
building much stronger people-to- wise counsel to me in my role at St Chaplain, which I regard as a
people relationships with Australia’s Paul’s. I have to confess that I am crucially important appointment—
neighbours in our region. especially looking forward to the proclaiming the Gospel in the
musical life of St James’—where College community, working for a
Do you know much about St there have for many years been lively Chapel life and intellectually
James’ and what we do here? Are links of various kinds between St strong engagement with faith,
there any aspects of St James’ James’, St Paul’s College, and indeed offering pastoral care for all, and
also the Choir of Trinity College, showing how we can best live
Editorial Melbourne. I find worship in the out our values in our daily lives.
policy Anglican choral tradition deeply These are exciting challenges and
moving, and I look forward very opportunities for us, and we pray
We aim to publish a much to this at St James’. for the support of everyone who
wide range of views and values the education we offer in
opinions in this magazine. Are there any other churches that the Anglican collegiate tradition to
Publication should you have been a member of over the young people of great potential
therefore not be read as the years? Have you always been we are fortunate to have as our
St James’, the Rector, an Anglican and is there anything students.
Parish Council, staff or you’d like to share about your
parishioners necessarily own faith journey? Dr Donald Markwell is the new Head of
endorsing or approving any St Paul’s College within the University of
particular view or opinion. My upbringing was in the Sydney from February 2018.
Methodist, later the Uniting,
Church. My faith evolving Brooke Shelley is Communications and
and deepening through my Media Manager at St James’.
participation in Anglican services
in colleges in Oxford, I came

PAGE 12 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

Bell News marylon coates

Congratulations of bells be rung, usually without will ring the tied bell to strike it
repetition. There are literally consistently in sequence with the
Lindsay Small conducted his first thousands of ‘recipes’ (technically (perfect) striking of the other bells
quarter peal at St Paul’s Burwood called ‘methods’) to achieve this. As supplied by the computer. Once
on 13 January. ringers progress, they learn more that is mastered, the ringer can
and more complicated methods. Of move on to ring the silenced bell
Using the Simulator course, at any time, some ringers in a method, the other parts again
to improve striking are more advanced than others. being computer-generated. Thus,
and advance method This means that it is not possible each ringer can try the method
ringing to get a band capable of ringing the of her/his choice, regardless of
more advanced methods. whether or not other ringers
Once learners have mastered know it. The computer tracks
bell handling, there is an almost A simulator consists of a computer the accuracy of the striking and
unlimited number of ways in program which knows all the provides various diagnostic results.
which they can join with the methods, connected to a sensor on Sessions using the simulator are
band to ring interesting patterns. one of the bells. The bell clapper arranged to suit each ringer, often
The basic requirement for team is tied so that it does not sound. just before regular Tuesday practice.
ringing is even spacing of the bells, Instead, the note is generated by Most St James’ members have used
technically referred to as ‘striking’. the computer and heard in the our simulator in this way, and we
Traditional English-style ringing ringing chamber. Initially, a learner find it accelerates our learning.
requires that patterns of sequences
Marylon Coates is Ringing Master at St
James’ Church.

Clapper tied to silence bell Magnet on bell wheel passes reed switch to In the ringing chamber: Alan Coates
generate signal to computer with laptop, projector and speakers

Images of computer ‘ringers’ projected on wall move in time Trace comparing actual ringing of ringer (red) and ideal (blue)
to their role in the method

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 13

profile: the rev’d canon dr emma percy

Where did you grow up? At Durham you met your husband, in Holy Week in other churches,
Martyn, who is also a priest. or share in the services at Christ
I spent my early years until 7 living What impact has it had on your Church Cathedral.
in rural Essex with lots of outdoor lives and your ministries that you
space. Sadly my parents’ marriage both share this vocation? Your theological writings often
was not happy and they separated make reference to ministry as
when I was 7. My father and Initially I was concerned that mothering. Briefly, how does your
the 4 children, (I was number 3) marrying a priest would inevitably experience of motherhood echo or
moved into a very different part of lead me to being ‘a vicar’s wife inform ministry, and vice versa?
Essex on the edge of London. Very with qualifications.’ The C of E had
different in so many ways. My new begun to ordain women as deacons Both vocations take over your
school had absolutely no grass only but not as priests, and most people life. Both are an interweaving of
concrete playgrounds. assumed that Martyn would work relationship and activity, of being
and I would do my ministry for free! and doing. I am interested in
Could you tell us something of exploring the concept of being ‘good
your personal journey in faith? The fact that Martyn takes my enough’, coined by Winnicott in
Have you been a Christian since vocation extremely seriously has terms of mothering, to help people
childhood? meant that we have been able to think more creatively about ministry.
ensure that we both make use of Both require concrete thinking, trial
My father had always taken us our strengths and gifts to serve the and error, and a constant capacity to
to church so I have really early church. We have managed to find manage change. Both are a strange
memories of Church and Sunday creative ways of both working. We mix of the mundane and necessary
School. When we moved to Ilford share a profound commitment to alongside the extraordinary and
the local church became very our faith, to the Church of England delightful.
significant especially for myself however much it frustrates us,
and my younger brother. I always and to a deepening theology. We You are Chair of Women and the
say that we were lovingly but talk constantly and bounce ideas Church (WATCH) UK. Could you
haphazardly brought up by my dad off each other. Our theology and tell us a little about their work?
and the local church. ministry has been shaped by our
relationship for the better. WATCH took over from MOW
Through a difficult adolescence (Movement for the Ordination of
the church community sustained At Trinity College you are Women). Women were ordained
me and I found a deep sense of the Chaplain to the staff and students priests in 1994, but the legislation
dependability of God. of the college. Do you get any would not allow them to be bishops,
time to yourself? and set up a complex system to
What led you to train for ministry? protect those who could not accept
Oxford terms are short so it tends the ministry of women. WATCH
At University I studied History. The to be intense in term time and then spent many years campaigning
church I attended had a deaconess to slow down in the vacations. I try for legislation to allow women to
on the staff in her early 30s. She to ensure that I make the most of be bishops, which was eventually
had a profound impact on me and these rhythms. Having dogs is very passed in 2014. Now we work on the
I began to explore the possibility important as they need to be walked. culture of the church and especially
of being a deaconess. This was the continuing inequality arising
the only option for a woman to We are fortunate that you are out of the legislation’s attempt to
be in the ministry of the church. I able to be with us in Sydney hold together a decision to ordain
struggled with those who told me for Holy Week. What happens women and to honour those who do
that a woman could not preach. at Trinity College at Easter that not think these women are priests
However, I also found that there allows you to be away from them? or bishops. We are also interested in
was a rich history and theology how liturgy and theology can better
to explore a more inclusive view Trinity College is closed for Easter. reflect on women’s life experience.
of ministry. I offered myself for Sometimes I have weddings in the
selection as a deaconess and began chapel over the Easter vacation but What are your interests outside
training in my mid 20s. fortunately none this year. This of College life and ministry?
has meant that I can get involved

PAGE 14 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

I try to practise yoga which I find open spaces. It is also deeply three hours of meditation and
good for my general wellbeing. I stimulating to live and work in the hymns to more liturgical events.
am an avid reader of novels and heart of a cutting-edge University
detective stories. We have an where you regularly sit down I love coming in to a church full
elderly dog and a young puppy to eat with academics from all of flowers on Easter Day, and that
and I love walking then. I like food, sorts of different disciplines. You incredible sense of life and hope in
cooking it, eating it and dining out. learn about amazing chemical the resurrection.
research, linguistic peculiarities
In ministry you are often called to of Romanian, the politics of Egypt, You recently visited Australia and
move again and again. Is it hard the latest research on diabetes and St James’ during 2017. What do
to uproot the family and to make so much more. you like most about the Australia
a new life every few years? you have seen? Is there anywhere
Holy Week is rich in liturgy, in Australia that you would
We have been fairly fortunate in symbolism and meaning. Is there like to visit that you haven’t yet
when moves have happened. Our a day or service during Holy experienced?
eldest son is now 24. We moved Week and Easter that particularly
when he was 9 months, 4 years, resonates for you? We had a wonderful trip to
11 years and 22 years old. The Australia. It was my first visit to
significant move at 11 went well, I have memories of so many Sydney and I was bowled over by
and the boys enjoyed living in the different Holy Weeks and it is not the views over the harbour. The
grounds of the theological college easy to point to a particular service, light is amazing even in your winter.
at Cuddesdon. Both were really as I am often surprised at where
relieved when our last move was God speaks to me most. I find the I am fascinated by the flora and
from a village outside Oxford footwashing on Maundy Thursday fauna. In August we were lucky
into a grand palace in the heart of deeply moving. I have both washed enough to see kangaroos, wallabies,
Oxford! It means their home is still feet and had my feet washed. Both koala and a pair of duck-billed
close to many of the friends they I have found to be richly resonant. platypus in the wild.
grew up with. I find the stripping of the church
on Maundy Thursday and keeping If I had more time I would love to
What do you enjoy most about watch very moving. Marking Good see more.
living and working in Oxford? Friday is always important to me,
and again I have done that in many Would you be willing to share
Oxford is a beautiful city full of different ways from traditional any plans you have the future?
stunning architecture and lovely
I would like to make the time to
write more.

I am waiting to see what my sons
decide to do and where they are
going to be. Currently Ben is living
and working in Colombia and Joe
is finishing university. The next 5
years may make their plans clearer.
Martyn is likely to stay at Christ
Church for a while, so I need to
work out what is next for me that
enables me to still enjoy living
with him!

The Rev’d Canon Dr Emma Percy will be
our Holy Week and Easter preacher and
will be interviewed at St James’ Institute
by Christopher Waterhouse on Sunday
25 March.

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 15

robert willson A WALK ALONG KING STreet

Science fiction writers and film treasured reminders of the Sydney Picture of title page from:
makers have often dreamed of the that Fowles portrayed. http://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks06/0600151h.html
Time Machine. Step inside it and
you may be transported to any Fowles gave us the aim of his Fowles writes that though none of
era you can imagine. Just before publication. He wrote: ‘The Principal these edifices has many architectural
the advent of mass photography, object of this work is to remove the pretensions, yet they form an
a young artist named Joseph erroneous and discreditable notions imposing and dignified whole. I
Fowles published in twenty parts current in England concerning this cannot help wondering what my
a work entitled Sydney in 1848. It is city, in common with everything great-grandmother, Sarah Hansford,
a fascinating evocation of the city else connected with the Colony.’ He thought of them. Sarah, a single
as it was sixty years after Governor was proud of his adopted home and immigrant girl, arrived in the Colony
Phillip and his cargo of convicts wanted to erase the convict stigma. in 1852, and spent her first night in
arrived, and a few years before the Australia in the Hyde Park Barracks,
gold rush. Like a Time Machine, Let us in imagination join the which had once housed convicts in
Fowles transports us to the city as enthusiastic Mr Fowles as he walks the days of transportation.
it was. up King Street towards St James’.
He describes a line of thriving shops When the artist was sketching
Fowles, born in England, had arrived and some of them, he tells us, are of the Church, he must have noted
in the Colony a decade earlier with considerable importance. King Street that at that time the spire formed a
his wife, Emily. After a stint as was busy then as it is now, with conspicuous object from every part
a farmer he set up as an artist in fashionable ladies and gentlemen of the City and its neighbourhood.
Harrington Street Sydney. But all the milling about, and ‘handsome He mentions the recent considerable
time he must have been walking the equipages’ dashing past. Sometimes improvements to the galleries and
streets and making sketches of every horses bolted and serious accidents that the Church afforded sittings for
building. happened. In 1830, when Bishop 1,500 people.
Broughton was the Archdeacon
Fowles seems to have had a special of NSW, the Australian newspaper Convicts
fondness for St James’ Church reported that he and his family were In former years, hundreds of
and may have worshipped in returning in a phaeton from Church, convicts were forced to attend,
the building originally designed presumably St James’, when one of and the galleries were filled with
by convict architect Francis the horses took fright. The whole them. A correspondent in the Sydney
Greenway. St James’ adorns the family was flung out of the vehicle. Herald, June 9, 1836, complained
cover of the facsimile edition that However, in the quaint language of that convicts were marched to
appeared in 1961. I purchased a the time, the paper assured readers the Church from the Barracks on
copy, with introduction and notes that ‘the Venerable Gentleman and dark winter evenings and of the
by architectural historian Morton his amiable family escaped unhurt’. opportunity for robbery that this
Herman, for the magnificent sum of They were very lucky. gave. The convicts crowded in
two dollars and I treasure it.
Greenway
Georgian style
Passing Pitt Street, Castlereagh
Turning the pages, we find beautiful Street and Elizabeth Street, we
copper engravings of Fowles’ reach a group of important public
drawings of the principal public buildings, all designed by Francis
buildings, as well as the rows of Greenway. On the right is the
beautifully proportioned Georgian Supreme Court of the Colony, and St
residences, street by street. The James’ Church. We are told that the
modern editors comment that this engraving of the church in Chapter
book shows us a Sydney that has VII is by W. Harris from a drawing
almost, but not quite, vanished. by Mr Fowles. This Georgian
Some lovely Georgian public enclave, still with the original
buildings, such as Government buildings, was then and remains, one
House, the Hyde Park Barracks of the most fashionable parts of the
and St James’, still survive and are City, a centre of the legal fraternity.

PAGE 16 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

TO ST JAMES’ CHURCH

the galleries occasioned ‘the great Robert Allwood Registrar. The Rectory of the
annoyance and inconvenience of Church apparently stood beside
every respectable person who may The author records a few details it, as a plaque in Macquarie Street
be inclined to attend.’ about the Rector, Reverend Robert states. Bishop Broughton was there
Allwood, who was at that time also each day, when in Sydney, to deal
In spite of the convict the Principal of the Theological with administrative matters and
‘inconvenience’, St James’ had College at Lyndhurst. He had correspondence. Fowles comments
become the most fashionable place formerly conducted theological that St James’, though not the
of worship in Sydney with an classes in the crypt of the Church. Diocesan Church, was the seat of
elegant ‘carriage parade’ on Sunday But the Lyndhurst College soon the most important transactions
mornings. Mr Fowles reminds his faded out because of lack of connected with the Church of
readers that the congregation usually candidates. England. The Bishop’s Secretary was
included the family of the Governor Henry Kerrison James and there
and a large proportion of the leading Robert Allwood and Bishop is a biographical entry for him in
members of society. Broughton were close associates, the Australian Dictionary of Biography,
and Broughton constantly relied volume 4, p. 468.
Fowles wrote: ‘it, [St James’], is on the advice of the Rector. Mr
decidedly the favourite resort of Allwood was a strong supporter of More than a century and a half later
the more aristocratical among the the Tractarian (or High Church) most of the buildings that Joseph
votaries of Hymen.’ The author was Movement and the style of worship Fowles describes in his evocative
writing in a time when many people in St James’, with emphasis on music, book have long been swept away,
had a classical education in Greek made this obvious. In the 21st century but St James’ Church, together with
and Latin and ancient history. They this Anglo-Catholic tradition the Supreme Court and the Hyde
would know that Hymen was a remains strong. Park Barracks, still survive and are in
Greek or Hellenistic divinity who regular use.
presided over marriage celebrations. In 1848, as Mr Fowles reminds
In modern language he tells us us, on the corner of King Street The Rev’d Robert Willson is a priest in the
that fashionable weddings were and Macquarie Street, stood Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn and
frequently held in St James’. an impressive building which a former Chaplain of the Canberra Girls’
was the Office of the Bishop’s Grammar School.

milestones

BAPTISMS
Xavier Rock Lawson.................................................................................................................................... 2 December 2017

WEDDINGS
Lewis Abraham Meing’Ang’Ie and Anna Tremayne Sambell............................................................ 2 December 2017
Paul Harold Giles and Bronwyn Joy Ellens..........................................................................................16 December 2017
Martin Otto Hilhorst and Camille Alessandra King......................................................................... 22 December 2017

advertising next edition

Have you ever considered advertising your The next edition of Parish Connections will be
business in Parish Connections? published on Friday 30 March.

Please phone 8227 1301 or email Deadlines (advertising and editorial):
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february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 17

charlotte wiltshire Christmas Pageant Report

Christmas is a busy time in the
church calendar for every church,
but St James’ is exceptionally busy.
As well as all the normal services,
there are the Christmas Pageant
and the Christingle Service.

The Christmas Pageant has always
been a big part of the year for Kids@
Church, but 2017 was our tenth
year of putting a pageant on, and
my whole family has been part of
it for all ten years. I have played all
the parts, including the donkey and
the Queen of England.

It is absolute chaos every year—we I have written the play for the mischief. It may be chaos, but it is
all tear our hair out during the past two years, and it has really controlled and fun chaos.
dress rehearsal—but it always shown what the Kids@Church
turns out perfectly. The meaning of community is capable of. It is a Charlotte Wiltshire is a parishioner and
‘perfect’ in this case is not that the magical feeling, crawling on the member of Kids@Church.
lines are perfect, but rather that the floor holding the microphone and
spirit of the kids and congregation watching the kids do their thing.
are there. We always have some Most of the kids here at St James’
mix-ups but it is still ‘perfect’ and don’t do much acting, and it is
enjoyed by all. truly magical when they are part
of their first nativity play, because
Parish Connections they always do an amazing job. It is
Subscriptions the best part of Christmas for me,
watching the kids come together,
Due to increased postage and form friendships, laugh and make
printing costs, we will need to
charge a fee to cover the cost
of sending out copies of Parish
Connections. From 2018 we will
have two subscriptions available:

ŪŪ Individual: $20 (6 issues per
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To be put on the mailing list or to
purchase a Parish Subscription,
please call the office on 8227 1300
or email [email protected].

PAGE 18 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

Chrism: Understanding Holy Oils christopher waterhouse

On Wednesday of Holy Week, perfumes and spices to give a strong wherever prayers for healing are
clergy, lay ministers and people and pleasant fragrance. There are offered. Oil to accompany prayers for
from around the Diocese of very many recipes which have been healing is most frequently applied
Sydney will meet for the annual used over the centuries and we will to the head, the hands, or the feet. In
Chrism Eucharist, which is held explore some of this in this seminar. some churches, lavender, rosemary
alternately at St James’ Church or chamomile has been added to this
and Christ Church St Laurence. As to their practical use, the Oil oil, but the strong fragrance is often
This year the service will be held of Catechumens is used for those unwise when visiting a person who
at Christ Church St Laurence. At preparing for Baptism. If used is feeling unwell in case the smell is
the service, bishops, priests and liturgically, it is most frequently too much for them, so plain olive oil
deacons are invited to renew their used at the point of The Decision is generally preferred. The practice
ordination vows, lay ministers in the Baptism service, before the of anointing the sick with oil has
reaffirm the vows taken at their candidate is baptised with water. ancient roots. In Mark’s Gospel (6:
licensing, and all are invited to Early church commentators saw 7–13) Jesus sends the disciples out
re-commit themselves to Christian this in terms of preparation to ‘run to proclaim the repentance of sins.
discipleship. the race that is set before us’. Often We read that the disciples cast out
the image of an athlete is used, demons and anoint the sick with
The Bishop of South Sydney, Bishop since oil was very often used by oil. In Luke’s Gospel (10:34) we read
Michael Stead, will be celebrant athletes for its medicinal properties. that the victim in the Parable of the
and preacher at this service, which John Chrysostom (354-407) in his Good Samaritan is also anointed
includes the blessing of oils to be Baptismal Homilies said, ‘from that with oil. In the Letter of James we
used at churches throughout the day of baptism onwards, you will read: ‘Are any among you sick? They
diocese at services of baptism, confront the devil in battle and this should call for the elders of the
confirmation, ordination and for is why the bishop anoints you as church and have them pray over
anointing the sick. athletes of Christ before leading them, anointing them with oil in the
you into the spiritual arena.’ The name of the Lord.’ (James 5:14).
Holy Oil has a significant place in Oil of Catechumens when used in
our Christian life and ministry. Its this way is usually applied to the The Oil of Chrism is traditionally
use is biblical and has deep roots forehead with the sign of the cross. blended with spices and perfumes
in the early Christian Church, yet In some churches, fragrances such and can be used in Baptism,
very few of us fully understand and as cloves, lemongrass or bergamot Confirmation, the Ordination of
appreciate the significance of the are added to this oil, although it is Priests, Consecration of Bishops
oils or how they are to be used. more common for this to be plain and is also used to consecrate
olive oil so as not to be confused sacred objects for use in the church,
On Wednesday 7 March, the Rector with the Oil of Chrism. most especially the consecration
of Christ Church St Laurence, Fr
Daniel Dries, will speak at the St The Oil for Anointing the Sick can be continued overleaf
James’ Institute about Holy Oils used in churches, homes, hospitals,
and their use. The seminar explores prisons—indeed whenever and
the scriptural references to the use
of oil for anointing and will provide
a practical guide for the use of oil in
our liturgies.

Three oils are prepared for this
service; the Oil of Catechumens,
the Oil for Anointing the Sick and
the Oil of Chrism. Olive oil is used
in each case; it should be virgin or
extra virgin olive oil and should
be cold pressed, not extracted
by heat. The Oil of Chrism is
then traditionally blended with

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 19

chrism: understanding holy oils continued

of altars and fonts. Chrism was The Lord spoke to Moses: Take the finest spices: of liquid myrrh five
also used at the Coronation of Her hundred shekels, and of sweet-smelling cinnamon half as much, that is,
Majesty the Queen. The Archbishop two hundred and fifty, and two hundred and fifty of aromatic cane, and
of Canterbury anointed the Queen five hundred of cassia—measured by the sanctuary shekel—and a hin
with Chrism oil on her head, hands of olive oil; and you shall make of these a sacred anointing-oil blended
and heart. Famously, this part as by the perfumer; it shall be a holy anointing-oil.
of the service was considered so
sacred it was not shown to the Exodus 30: 22–25
congregation or the television
audience—a large canopy was Take sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum, sweet spices with
carried into position for this part of pure frankincense (an equal part of each), and make an incense blended
the service. as by the perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy; and you shall
beat some of it into powder, and put part of it before the covenant in
It is most common to find the Oil the tent of meeting where I shall meet you; it shall be for you most holy.
of Chrism used in Baptism after When you make incense according to this composition, you shall not
the candidate has been baptised make it for yourselves; it shall be regarded by you as holy to the Lord.
with water. Chrism is also used in
Confirmation after the Laying on of Exodus 30: 34–37
Hands by the Bishop.
anointed one, reminds us that each Symbols in Worship, SPCK 2007, p.56).
In A Prayer Book for Australia the baptism is related to the baptism of Jesus.
following note accompanies the (APBA 1995, p.82). Chrism: Understanding Holy Oils will
instructions for the Order of Holy be presented by The Rev’d Dr
Baptism: Canon Simon Jones writes, ‘There Daniel Dries at St James’ Hall on
is nothing magical about the ritual Wednesday 7 March 4:30pm–6pm.
Oil may be used if desired at the signing of use of oil in Christian worship; Tickets are available through the St
the cross…The optional use of oil (chrism) nor is it simply a visual aid. Rather, James’ Institute online at sjks.org.au/
restores an ancient baptismal ceremony. It anointing with oil, in whatever institute, by phoning (02) 8227 1305
evokes a rich variety of biblical imagery: context it occurs, is a sacramental or by email to registrations@sjks.
the anointing of kings (1 Samuel 16), the action which, through the power org.au. All are welcome to attend.
royal priesthood (1 Peter 2), the seal of the of the Spirit, effects an encounter
saints (Revelation 7) and is traditionally between the Anointed One and the Christopher Waterhouse is Director of the
associated with the Holy Spirit. Its anointed.’ (in C. Irvine, The Use of St James’ Institute.
relationship with the name ‘Christ’, the

PAGE 20 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

colin’s corner

FROM S. JAMES’ MONTHLY efficiency must be subordinated. It pure air in which alone freedom
CHURCH MESSENGER, is democracy in this sense, the claim can breathe. If there be the
february 1918 of each to be treated with justice dangers, what is the safeguard and
and respect and the duty on the defence against them? This is the
Back to the theme: part of each of rendering to others place and this the time to assert
100 YEARS AGO what he claims for himself, it is this that democracy can only be made
which stands in jeopardy to-day. sate by the recognition of GOD
Address President Wilson has said that the in Christ, by submission to the
main object of the war in which the Redeemer’s yoke, by a common
Given by the Rector1 at American people has so generously submission to the sovereignity
the Anniversary Service and whole-heartedly thrown in its [sic] and Fatherhood of GOD.
held in Macquarie Place on lot with us is to make the world safe For first, in Christ Jesus alone
Sunday, February 3rd, 1918, in for democracy, to make it impossible are divisions of class and nation
commemoration of the first that is for any people to rob another done away, and a fellowship of
Christian Service held in Australia, of the freedom and right to shape mutual service substituted for
its own destiny. It is worth any cost crass and selfish competition; and
February 3rd, 1788. and sacrifice to rid the world of secondly, it is only in Christ Jesus
that menace. Yet for us at least the that spiritual values are assured
We are recalling the religious danger which besets our freedom is their supremacy. The life neither
beginnings of the Australian not only from the foe without—an of a man nor of a nation consists
people; and it is well to remember equal or greater danger arises from in abundance of possessions but
that the religious beginnings of a within. Let me point to two forms in the self-forgetting service of
people are not less pregnant with which it takes, two dangers which GOD and of humanity. Man is
consequence than its political; threaten the fair fabric of freedom, a creature of ideal ends, living
and the claiming of this land and built up out of so unpromising a not by bread alone but by every
people for GOD effected on this beginning. The first is that of class word which proceeds from the
spot on this very day 130 years ago suspicion, class strife, class division. mouth of GOD. Thus it is by this
is equally memorable with the act, When one class or another (and the common acknowledgement of
discharged a few days before, of blame cannot be assigned to one GOD in Christ that we have the
claiming it for the reigning King rather than the other) arrogates to pledge of lasting brotherhood
of England. How little could the itself rights and privileges which it and the assured regard for things
gathering assembled here that is unwilling to extend to others and unseen and eternal, which can
day forsee [sic] what the outcome pushes its claims at any cost to the safeguard and make enduring
would be of so unpromising a community, then there has arisen democracy. May this service help
beginning. It was as undemocratic a condition of things in which that us, as we look to the rock whence
a society as could well be very freedom on which the claims we were hewn, and to the hole of
imagined, the vast majority are based is undermined. Only so the pit whence we were digged
convicts and the officials in charge far as there is the giving of justice [sic], and remembering in whom
of them, with only a handful of side by side with the claiming of and by whom alone our true
free settlers. Yet from that origin right can democracy stand firm. The welfare is secured, to reconsecrate
has sprung one of the world’s free second internal danger is that of ourselves to the service of GOD
peoples, a great self-governing materialism, the setting of material for the fulfilment of the high
democracy, and yet democracy values as higher than the personal destiny to which as a people we
stands rather for a spirit and and moral. Yet freedom is not the are called.
a principle than for a form of right of each to grab what he can of
government—the principle of this world’s goods in disregard of 1 The Reverend Philip Arthur Micklem, M.A.
the indefeasible right of every others, and if wealth and economic
man, woman and child to be gain be made the first object to the Colin Middleton is the Archives
regarded and treated not as a cog exclusion of spiritual ideals, then Assistant at St James’.
in a machine, a power in a game again there is a fatal tainting of the
which others are playing, but as
ends, in themselves, as having an
ultimate personal value to which
even industrial and material

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 21

sue mackenzie A TRIBUTE TO THE REV’D JOHN

John William Dubois ‘Paddy’ spiritual matters with those who John announced to his family, “I
Spooner, or Father John, as he listened. But he was also keen to think I’m going to become a priest!”
came to be known in his later years share his Lord. A man of strong He attained a Bachelor of Divinity
at St James’ King Street, Sydney faith and with an appreciation of in 1991 and was ordained in the
was “a man of two careers”. In his the depth and variety of literature Anglican Diocese of Ballarat. Locum
eulogy at the Requiem Eucharist within Scripture, he would weave a work in many different parishes
for Father John at St James’ on 3 sermon that drew his listeners into followed, from Victoria to Papua
November, 2017, his son, Michael, the truth he recognised in Christ New Guinea to Christ Church St
gave this description by way of and the fellowship he enjoyed with Laurence, and particularly St John’s
introduction to his summation of him. And he wanted you to share Gordon and St James’ King Street,
a life full of diverse activities and that journey with him, whether it Sydney. But he didn’t stop there.
one of two distinct halves. The first be to the quietness of the Garden of Being such a creative person, with
half was centred on John’s career Gethsemane or the hills of Galilee, an intellectual’s appreciation of
as a ‘jet-setting’ executive in the the setting was important to John ideas and history, he wrote and self-
travel industry; the second focussed and brought colour to his message. published several books, including
on his work as an Anglican After all, he had visited those places. a history of the Diocese of Ballarat,
priest, which culminated in his one of Christ Church St Laurence,
appointment in the last few years of Of course he had—by the 1960s he and most recently, The Afterlife-The
his life as Honorary Chaplain to the was Qantas Promotions Manager Evidence of Near-Death Experiences,
Healing Ministry at St James’ King for the world. In the 1970s he available in the Parish Office of St
Street. started his own travel company, James’.
‘representing various overseas
At St James’, and no doubt at other clients, mainly airlines, and kick- Father John was a man cherished
churches where he had ministered, starting some local travel ventures’, by many. He could always spin
especially St John’s Gordon, including ACTU Travel for Bob a good yarn; whether it was of
Father John was the quiet, caring Hawke. Yet this was merely a his clutching the deck by his
person who always had time to stepping-stone to another career. fingernails when trying to catch the
listen or encourage. In the last few He was the one who began and ran SS Oronsay to bring him home from
years, he offered a time of prayer successfully, from the late 1970s London as a young man—he made
and anointing after the 9am and until his retirement in 1989, a it and met his future wife, Barbara,
11am services at St James’ each ‘School of Travel and Tourism’ for in the process— or his excuse to
Sunday in the Chapel of the Holy Sydney Tech, now the University of a policeman that it was his buck’s
Spirit. Those who were ill, or had Technology Sydney (UTS). night when trying to explain an
a special matter that was pressing evening swim in the Archibald
on their minds, were encouraged It was then, at the age of 60, that Fountain in Hyde Park—it wasn’t.
to go to the Chapel and share this
with Father John, or to ask him to
pray for them or a loved one. He
did this quietly and with such a
depth of feeling that people came
away spiritually refreshed and
emotionally comforted. He was
also very much involved with the
Guild of St Raphael, which meets
monthly on a Tuesday evening at
St James’ for a Healing Eucharist;
where Father John was often the
preacher and celebrant.

John loved to preach and would
enthusiastically share his
experiences and his insights into

PAGE 22 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

SPOONER (30/5/1929 – 22/10/2017)

As the photo here of a young John, Father John was fortunate in one
complete with long hair suggests, sense to prepare for his dying and
he was ‘a bit of a lad’! He loved to know when the time had come
being the life of the party, the to stop. Hence, on the occasion of
centre of attention; his red Triumph his last sermon, he presented his
Stag sports car completing the cope to the Rector to signify the
picture. end of his priestly ministry.

Yet he was also an intellectual, fond Clearly the church has lost a
of classical music, and keen to be a faithful servant, and his family and
part of the life of the church; he was friends, a valued companion and
a lay reader from his early twenties. example.
Although he loved camping and
fishing, he was very impractical. Sue Mackenzie is Publications Editor at
A lover of dogs and horse-racing, St James’.
he was open-minded regarding
politics, and a staunch friend. Yet
as his son recalls, at heart he was
someone “driven by self-doubt and
the need to succeed”. No wonder
he worked so hard and in such a
variety of pursuits.

John has left behind his wife and Counselling @ St James’
four children. However, he has also
left behind many people whose St James’ Church offers a socially inclusive and non-faith based
lives he touched, whether it was professional counselling service as part of its outreach ministry to
through his work in the travel the city.
industry, his ministry as a priest,
or his ideas and words through his Our professional counsellors/psychotherapists/coaches are available
books and sermons, there are many to assist individuals, couples and family members on a wide range
who remember him fondly and are of issues. Appointment flexibility is offered to accommodate work
grateful for his impact on their lives. schedules. The service is provided in rooms in the lower level of St
James’ Church, located in the heart of the city.

To make an appointment, or for further details, please visit www.
sjks.org.au or telephone 8227 1300.

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 23

Donation form for:
The St James’ Foundation Limited

The St. James’ Building and Property Foundation
& The St. James’ Music Foundation

Directors Chairman
CEO
Bishop Richard Hurford OAM
Graham Smith
Christine Bishop LLB (Syd) FAICD
Daniel Ferguson JP
Robert Cameron JP
Gregory West CA

Name

Phone

Mobile

Address

Postcode

AN INVITATION Email

from Bishop Richard Hurford, OAM (Chairman) Please accept my donation to the
Capital Fund of the Music Foundation
In 1999, as the Chairman of the Australian Council of the International Guild
of Church Musicians, I was part of a small group of church music supporters $
which shared the vision of establishing the St James Foundation. I then
served as the Foundation’s first Chairman. Please accept my donation to the
Current Activities Fund of the Music
The current Board of Directors invite you to support this dynamic resource Foundation
for St James by way of donation or bequest.
$
St James Foundation Ltd
Please accept my donation to the
The St James Foundation Ltd is a company limited by guarantee and is the Organ Replacement & Restoration Fund of
trustee of two charitable trusts, the St James Music Foundation and the St the Music Foundation
James Church Building and Property Foundation.
$
Graham Smith, Graeme Bailey, Bishop Richard Hurford, Robert Cameron
and Daniel Ferguson are the directors of the company. Please accept my donation to the
Capital Fund of the Building Foundation
The St James Music Foundation
$
The object of the Music Foundation is:
To provide financial and other assistance to enable the production and Please draw cheques to the St James’
performance ofsacred andsecularmusic with a particularfocuson choral Music Foundation and forward to:
and pipe organ music along with other expressions of the creative and The Treasurer, Unit 2702/5 York St, Sydney 2000
performing arts.
OR
The Music Foundation allows two kinds of donations; those towards the
capitalfund,which isinvested toprovideannualdistributions totheParish. Direct Bank Transfer
The second kind of donation can be to particular reserves, like the organ (electronic payment) to:
restoration / rebuilding fund, scholarships, production of CD’s or other WBC - BSB 032 007 / Acc. No. 181314
reserves thatmeetwith therequirementsoftheFoundationandthe needs
oftheParish. Donationstothe MusicFoundation aretax deductible. OR

The St James Church Building and Please debit my: Visa Mastercard
Property Foundation
Card No. /
The object of the Building and Property Foundation is to provide financial Exp. Date
assistance to St James for the restoration, preservation, maintenance,
improvement, enhancementand upkeep of the Chu ch building, its f xtures, Signature
fittingsandornaments.TheBuildingFoundationisprincipallyacapital fund,
the income of which is distributed to the parish. Donations to the Building Please send me information (to the above address) of
Foundation are not tax deductible. how I might include a bequest for The St. James’ Music
Foundation or The St. James Building Foundation in my will
The two Foundations have provided well over two million dollars, in
distributions to the Parish of St James over the past 13 years. All donations to The St. James’ Music Foundation
over $2.00 are tax deductible

PAGE 24 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

st James’ institute update christopher waterhouse

We began the 2018 St James’ brochure are available from the Photo: Nick Gilbert
Institute programme with a sold- church and from the Parish Office,
out tour of ‘Rembrandt and the and online at sjks.org.au/institute. common questions about Holy
Dutch Golden Age: Masterpieces Annual subscriptions are $175 Oils and their use. (See article on
from the Rijksmuseum’ at the Art adults and $155 concession for page 19).
Gallery of NSW on Wednesday Centrelink pensioners and full-time
24 January. We were privileged students. Subscribers receive free On Sunday 11 March at 2:00pm,
to be guided by art historian Dr tickets to our full programme of Associate Professor Michael
Josephine Touma, who provided activities (except the Parish Retreat Horsburgh presents ‘Understanding
us with a fascinating insight into and the Pilgrim course booklets, the Liturgy: Why We Do What We
the political, social and religious which incur an additional charge). Do’, a seminar exploring the rich
climate of the Netherlands in the liturgical traditions of the church
17th century. Dr Touma explained Lent falls early this year and and explaining the meaning behind
the context for the creation of so our Lent Study Series is fast the symbols, signs and actions
artworks of the period in terms approaching. We will continue of our liturgies, most especially
of subject matter and style, and of to use the Pilgrim course materials in the Eucharist. The seminar is
the demands of the art market at this year and we begin with a repeated on subsequent Thursday
the time. After the tour, we were six-week study series exploring lunchtimes for those unable to
given time to explore the exhibition ‘The Commandments’. As the attend on the Sunday.
at our own pace before enjoying Pilgrim course authors explain, ‘the
the delights of the Art Gallery’s Commandments are one of the On Wednesday 14 March at
Wednesday evening’s programme. foundations of Christian faith. They 4:30pm, we welcome The Rev’d
teach us how we should aim to live John Deane, Executive Director
St James’ has been involved in this as individuals and as a community. of the Anglican Board of Mission
exhibition in a number of ways: the This course explores the ways (ABM), to give us an update on
Choir of St James’ gave two concert in which Jesus interprets the current mission projects around
performances in conjunction with Commandments for his disciples the world. The ABM is the national
this exhibition in December, and I and expands their meaning.’ This mission agency of the Anglican
was invited to contribute an article study series includes contributions Church of Australia, working
for the Gallery’s website on the from the Bishop of Oxford, Steven with overseas and Aboriginal
Reformation, referencing some of Croft; the Bishop of Christchurch and Torres Strait Islander people
the artworks in this exhibition. New Zealand, Victoria Matthews; and communities. The ABM was
We look forward to working with and Lucy Winkett, Rector of St founded in 1850 and, since then, has
the Art Gallery of NSW for future James’ Piccadilly in London, among supported mission projects around
events and conversations. These others. Groups will meet for six
collaborations are part of our weeks during Lent (commencing continued overleaf
strategy to expand the reach of in the week of 12 February).
the St James’ Institute beyond the Groups meet in the City, Pyrmont,
Church precinct and into the City Homebush and Chatswood (the
of Sydney and beyond. Chatswood group will begin on
Monday 19 February). Full details
Subscriptions to our annual can be found online at sjks.org.au/
programme of activities are now institute.
on sale and represent outstanding
value for money. Subscriptions In March we look forward to
help to support the work of the welcoming The Rev’d Dr Daniel
St James’ Institute; our intention Dries, Rector of Christ Church
is to increase the number of St Laurence, to present ‘Chrism:
subscriptions this year and to Understanding Holy Oils’. With
welcome more people to our events the annual Chrism Eucharist held
and activities. Copies of our 2018 St on Wednesday of Holy Week, this
James’ Institute Programme Highlights seminar is aimed at answering

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 25

alistair nelson Ripe for Replacement

This article is adapted from a document combination of electro-pneumatic and unpleasant sounds which are
dating from 2015 written by Organ and direct electric operation), result of mechanical or electrical
Builder, Peter Jewkes, who was also soundboards were significantly failure or poor construction of
Assistant Organist and Choirmaster at St altered, pipework was entirely pipes). Whilst the organ in its 1971
James’ from 1985 to 1994. re-voiced, and a new large console format was reasonably successful
built. A significant number of mechanically, it was never regarded
The first organ at St James’ was stops was also added at this time, highly among musicians for its
by John Gray of London and was including an entirely new ‘floating’ tonal quality. Even the earliest 19th
installed in 1827. It was rebuilt and Positive division of 9 stops, a short- century pipework was known to
moved around the church many compass Trompette Militaire stop have been of indifferent quality,
times during the 19th century, on the Choir division, and many and subsequent replacements have
mostly by the Sydney organ builder other tonal alterations typical had only limited success. While
William Davidson. In 1901 it was of the period, with the then new the 1971 work rationalised and
moved from the south side of the instrument totalling 67 stops. improved some tonal aspects, it
church in the present-day Chapel left the church with an instrument
of the Holy Spirit, to its present The present organ has now given which has never entirely fulfilled
position on either side of the over 45 years of excellent service,
choir stalls, and the action (the with almost legendary reliability, continued overleaf
connections from the keyboards but the mechanical aspects of the
to the pipes) was changed from instrument are starting to fail. The organ when located on the south wall
mechanical to tubular-pneumatic Some problems are obvious to the
(operating on air in a vacuum). congregation: for instance, the
By this stage, the vast majority of wheezing from the organ during
the organ’s material was still by Lent 2017, caused by perished
Davidson, despite claims that the leather on the bellows (the
organ contained pipework from reservoirs of pressurised air which
the 1827 instrument. Considerable make the pipes speak), and the
alterations were made to the organ absence of colourful stops such as
throughout the 20th century, Clarinet or Trompette militaire
with a significant amount of the (because the corresponding bellows
pipework being replaced. have had to be disconnected
owing to holes in the leather, and
Finally, in 1971 the organ was notes which stick because of
extensively rebuilt and ‘modernised’ mechanical or electrical failings).
by Hill Norman and Beard Some problems have to be hidden
(Australia) Pty Ltd. The action by the ingenuity of the organist
was converted to electric (with a (working around missing notes

st james’ institute continued

the world. Admission to this event and Chaplain of Trinity College Further details on these and other
is free and all are welcome. Choral Oxford. On Palm Sunday, 25 March upcoming events can be found
Evensong follows in St James’ at 2:00pm, please join us for a online at sjks.org.au/institute. To
Church at 6:15pm with prayers special ‘In Conversation’ event to book for any of these events, email
offered for the work and ministry of meet Canon Percy, and to hear [email protected], call (02)
the Anglican Board of Mission. more about her life, her ministry 8227 1305 or visit the Parish Office at
and her perspectives on the mission Level 1, 169-171 Phillip Street, Sydney.
We are delighted to announce and ministry of the church. Choral
that our preacher for Holy Week Evensong for Palm Sunday follows Christopher Waterhouse is Director of the
and Easter this year is the Rev’d at 4:00pm. St James’ Institute.
Canon Dr Emma Percy, Fellow

PAGE 26 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

and Restoration

its purpose, and with the passing can be seen protruding from many The organ pre-1988
of time, the Neo Classical tonal perspectives in the Church. In
additions were of course recognised addition, the 1901 spotted metal 8’ that an essentially new instrument
as inappropriate and incongruous. façade pipes are of poor quality, and is required, but some of the existing
have not aged well.  stops can be retained (both for
Whilst giving good mechanical musical and sentimental reasons).
service, there are also some very Over the last 26 years various organ
basic design and construction builders passing through Sydney We look forward to preserving St
issues in the organ, not just from have informally examined the organ James’ reputation of fine music-
1971. These include the main in varying levels of detail according making with the replacement and
slider soundboards (c.1901) which, to time available. All have agreed restoration of the organ.
despite their rebuilding, still
show clear evidence of inferior Alistair Nelson is Organist at St James’.
construction and inadequate
operation, presumably dating from
their earliest days. Visually, whilst
the organ may have possessed some
quaint qualities when moved to
its present position, the casework
remained incomplete until 1971, at
which stage it was ‘completed’ by
the addition of modern pierced
metal screens at the East end of
each side, of lamentable quality and
appearance. Further, the expanded
specification meant than not all
interior pipes could be properly
masked by the casework, and these

The Greeting of Welcome anne innes

The Greeting of Peace is, as we but don’t quite engage the visitor, easy now to hand hymn book, pew
know, part of the Eucharist. We or even someone we know. The sheet, service sheet to the person,
also know that if parishioners weather is a good ‘small talk’ opener: and don’t forget the smile! Always
are asked to ‘bring a plate’, St “Isn’t it cold this morning?” “What a smile—it says so much.
James’ can just about feed the five lovely scarf/hat/coat/jacket you have
thousand, so to speak. Very often, on”; “I see you’ve got your gloves If you are still shy and unconfident
we have visitors and strangers to on this morning—they’ll keep your in approaching a stranger, practise
join us for the service and we invite hands warm” are good starters, and on someone you know. If your
them to join us for refreshments, indicate imperceptibly that you friend is a bit mystified, just explain
confident of our hospitality skills. have noticed the visitor, and usually that you are practising. Of course, a
But sometimes there is lack of the visitor smiles back and, you quick ‘arrow’ prayer: “Lord, please
confidence, a shyness in actually can then ask, “have you come far help me speak” is an extra help. I
speaking to visitors and strangers. this morning?” This works even hope you will soon be able to give
if the person is someone you see the greeting of welcome.
Here are some ‘small talk ice occasionally, and you are not sure
breakers’ which might help you if they are a visitor or parishioner. Anne Innes is a parishioner, former
overcome your shyness. A smile By now, you have rapport with the Sidesperson and provider of hospitality
and ‘hello’ or ‘hi’ are good stand-bys, person. If you are a Sidesperson, how and refreshments after the 7:45am and
9:00am Eucharists at St James’.

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 27

ALISTAIR NELSON music notes

In the month of December, Music@ Dan Walker’s Advent Cantata was commonly known as ‘Heiligmesse’.
St James’ seemed to be working commissioned for the final service This was paired with one of Elgar’s
hard to make it their busiest Advent in the Bach Cantata series. It grand anthems for choir and organ,
ever. The first Sunday of the season combined ancient German chorale Great is the Lord. At the end of the
began a hectic eight days, which texts with contemporary poetry, mass, Fr Andrew acknowledged
saw the Choir sing for a corporate historical instruments with modern soprano Liza Lilli, who will be
event, perform in the Art Gallery harmonies, and brought together retiring from the Choir after 18
of NSW, give a concert at St professional and amateur singers years. In addition to her singing, she
James’ with a number of premiere to create a fresh work which also directed the children’s choir
performances, and premiere a new communicated a message of hope. for a number of years. Liza will still
Cantata. These events included This concluded the successful first sing occasionally, but is taking time
a wide range of music from the year of BachBand@StJames’. Many to explore a calling to ministry.
Franco-Flemish Renaissance thanks are due to violist and music
through to works composed for, educator, Nicole Forsyth for her The third Orchestral Mass service
and commissioned by, the Choir work in curating this exciting series, also featured the launch of the
of St James’. The concert, Gul Gul which will continue in 2018 with 2018 Subscription Concert series,
Dja Mardi, premiered works by St four more Bach Cantatas (see box titled Revelations. The series takes
James’ composers: Nativity by Brooke for details). Continuing the music its inspiration from the powerful
Shelley, and Introit and O magnum department’s busy schedule, the and sublime images of judgement
mysterium by Owen Elsley. Nativity following Sunday was Nine Lessons and the world to come, which are
was a haunting and evocative setting and Carols, and the Sunday after found in the last book of the Bible.
of a poem by James McAuley, and its already Christmas Eve. In the space In the seventh year of the concert
effect was enhanced by the subtle of little more than 24 hours, the series (seven being an auspicious
instrumental accompaniment. Introit Choir sang three Choral Eucharists, number for the book of Revelation),
began in surround sound, with each with different settings: one we repeat three major works have
musicians in various parts of the familiar, one new, and one in a new occurred previously in the series.
church slowly moving in and to the arrangement with accompaniment The first is the Handel’s Messiah,
front, singing a text which spoke for trumpet and organ. one of the greatest choral works
of Jesus’ coming as the coming of all time, for which we will be
of light into the world. O magnum January brought three glorious returning to City Recital Hall. The
mysterium drew on the familiar Orchestral Masses. The first congregation at the first Orchestral
ancient Latin text, accompanied by included a sunny, joyous Baroque Mass this year had a foretaste of the
Owen’s characteristically sensuous mass setting by Catalan composer, Handel, with the final movement
harmonies. Francesco Valls, a new name to Worthy is the lamb, which must be
most (the musicians included.) one of the most famous settings of a
Bach Cantata Series This drew on the expertise of many Revelations text.
members of BachBand@StJames’,
Each service begins at 4:00pm including concertmaster Stephen The following three concerts
Freeman, who once again lent his present repertoire new to St James’,
Sunday 15 April – Ich bin ein guter expertise and elegant playing to the first of which is Rossini’s Petite
Hirt BWV 85 our aid. The second Orchestral messe solennelle. This marvellous
Mass provided contrast with work, composed in Rossini’s old
Sunday 10 June – Ach Gott, vom a brooding mass setting with age, is called ‘small’ because of
Himmel sieh darein BWV 2 string accompaniment by Latvian the size of its forces (12 singers, 2
composer Peteris Vasks, a stunning pianos and a harmonium), but it
Sunday 12 August – Mein Herze piece which required great vocal is grand in its musical dimensions,
schwimmt in Blut BWV 199 stamina from the Choir. This and full of drama and beautiful
Sunday also provided a chance to melodies. Rossini hoped (perhaps
Sunday 14 October – Ach! ich hear the rarely performed Respighi tongue-in-cheek) that it would
sehe, itzt, da ich zue Hochzeit gehe Suite in G major for strings and organ. help provide him a little step up
BWV 162, and Ich geh’ und suche mit The final Orchestral Mass featured to heaven. For the concert, called
Verlangen BWV 49 another of Haydn’s great masses, Grant me paradise, Music@St James’

PAGE 28 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

will be joined by soloists from featured will include Josquin, Photo: Christopher Shain of piano 4-hands. And the concert,Photo: Lincoln Law
Opera Australia. Then on St James’ Tomkins, Howells, and Rutter. Angels and trumpets: a Renaissance
Day weekend, we will present a Christmas will see the return of
concert entitled Saints and Revelation, Towards the end of the year, two Praetorius’ Christmas Mass, with
with English composer Patrick more major works return to Australian Baroque Brass. This
Hawes’ Revelation as its centerpiece. St James’. Brahms’ Ein Deutsches sumptuous setting was a great
And after that, Cease all tears will Requiem (which the Choir will also success in its previous appearance,
bring together themes of mortality, be performing with the Adelaide and we look forward to presenting
remembrance and everlasting life Chamber Singers in Adelaide in it again.
as they are represented in music May) will be the highlight of the
written ‘in memoriam’. Composers concert, A voice from heaven, in the Alistair Nelson is Organist at St James’.
arrangement with accompaniment

Evocations

I’m excited to announce the release of a new CD of

the organ of St James’, calledaliStair nelSon playS: Evocations, played by me evocationS    Alistair Nelson and Marko Sever      SJKS003
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750): 
1 Prelude and Fugue in G major, BWV 541 ............................................................................. 7:46

(Alistair Nelson) and former Robert Blunden OrganHerbert Howells (1892–1983): 
Scholar, Marko Sever. We owe many thanks to Audrey2 Psalm-Prelude, Set 1, no. 3 ........................................................................................................6:54
Josef Rheinberger (1839–1901): 
Blunden, the funding of this CD being only one of3 Introduction and Passacaglia from Sonata no. 8 in E minor, Op. 132 ........................... 11:02
Edward Elgar (1857–1934): Evocations
many ways she has supported St James’. Others have4 ‘Nimrod’ from Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, arr. W. H. Harris ...............4:00
Graeme Koehne (b.1956): Alistair Nelson
included her time as President of the Friends of Music5 Gothic toccata ..............................................................................................................................7:55 and Marko Sever

marko Sever playS: at the organ of
St James’, King Street, Sydney
at St James’, and providing the Organ ScholarshipJohann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750): Orgelbüchlein (selections)
frustrating experience, and this disc illustrates an
6 Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 599 .........................................................................1:34 organist’s attempt to overcome the limitations of an
imperfect instrument, and still make beautiful music.
in memory of her late husband Robert, which has7 In dulci jubilo, BWV 608 ............................................................................................................1:31 Marko Sever, who completed his Scholarship early
8 O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig, BWV 618 ................................................................................ 3:40 in 2016, is currently in his final year of postgraduate
9 O Mensch, bewein dein Sünde groß, BWV 622 ................................................................. 5:50 studies at the Royal Academy of Music, London. He
has built on the skills he learnt here at St James’, and
nurtured three young organists at St James’.10 Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639 ............................................................................ 2:17 now holds Organ Scholarships at All Saints Margaret
Street and St Sepulchre-without-Newgate, where
Charles Tournemire (1870–1939):  he regularly accompanies and conducts both choirs.
Having previously performed the entire Orgelbüchlein
The CD contains a variety of repertoire which evokes11 Chorale-Improvisation sur le ‘Victimæ Paschali’, arr. M. Duruflé ................................. 8:39 in concert, Marko has just embarked on a similar long-
Maurice Duruflé (1902–1986): term project of learning the entire Clavier-Übung III
of J. S. Bach, which he hopes to perform in a series of
the different times of the church year and the varied12 Scherzo, Op. 2 ..............................................................................................................................5:54 concerts in 2018.
Thierry Escaich (b.1965):

moods of the liturgy. There are short seasonal chorale-13 Évocation II .................................................................................................................................. 6:26

preludes by Bach, as well as his joyful Prelude and

Fugue in G major. There is a moody Howells Psalm-

Prelude, Rheinberger’s monumental Passacaglia in E

minor, Elgar’s noble ‘Nimrod’ and Australian composer

Graeme Koehne’s exhilarating Gothic toccata. The

disc concludes with three French works of the 20th

and 21st Centuries: Duruflé’s whimsical Scherzo,

Tournemire’s commanding improvisation on the

Easter sequence Victimae Paschali, and Thierry Escaish’s

breathless Evocation II.

The recording also stands as a final testament of the
current St James’ organ, as we prepare to welcome
a new instrument in a couple of years’ time. Indeed,
the state of the current organ is such that one of the
divisions has since been disconnected due to the
holes in the leather of the bellows, so some sounds on
the disc can no longer be heard (such as the Clarinet
at the opening of the Howells, and the sparkling
mutations in the soft middle section of the Koehne).
Working with the current organ has always been a

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 29

music@st james’ in february/march

choral music

The Choir of St James’ continues to offer inspiring choral music of the highest standards. Here is its music list for
the next two months.

SUNDAY 4 FEBRUARY WEDNESDAY 7 MARCH
11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST 6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG
Sung by the St James’ Singers Responses: Radcliffe
Mass setting: Lassus – Missa Puisque j'ay perdu Canticles: Walmisley in D minor
Motet: Howells – My eyes for beauty pine Anthem: Farrant – Call to remembrance

WEDNESDAY 7 FEBRUARY SUNDAY 11 MARCH
6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG 11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST
Responses: Smith Mass setting: Palestrina – Missa Emendemus in melius
Canticles: Stanford in G Motets: Monteverdi – Domine ne infurore
Anthem: Howells – Like as the hart
WEDNESDAY 14 MARCH
SUNDAY 11 FEBRUARY 6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG (upper voices)
11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST Responses: Archer
Mass setting: Ives – Missa brevis Canticles: Dyson in C
Motet: Tallis – O nata lux Anthem: Buck – O Lord God

WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY SUNDAY 18 MARCH
6:30pm – CHORAL EUCHARIST 11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST
FOR ASH WEDNESDAY Mass setting: Byrd – Mass for four voices
Mass setting: Lassus – Missa Deus in adjutorium Motets: Weelkes – When David heard
Psalm: Allegri – Miserere mei Deus
Motet: Byrd – Emendemus in melius WEDNESDAY 21 MARCH
6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG (lower voices)
SUNDAY 18 FEBRUARY Responses: Plainsong
11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST Canticles: Victoria – Magnificat ‘sexti toni’
Mass setting: Lassus – Missa Deus in adjutorium Anthem: Tallis – In pace
Motets: Purcell – Hear my prayer
SUNDAY 25 MARCH: PALM SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY 21 FEBRUARY 10:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST with
6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG (upper voices) blessing of Palms and Procession
Responses: Plainsong Mass setting: Hassler – Missa octava a 8
Canticles: Lassus – Magnificat quarti toni ‘Anchor che col Motets: Gibbons – Hosanna to the Son of David
partire’ Chilcott – God so loved the world
Anthem: Pergolesi – Stabat mater dolorosa
4:00pm – CHORAL EVENSONG
SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY Responses: Radcliffe
11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST Canticles: Noble in A minor
Mass setting: Palestrina – Missa Emendemus in melius Anthem: Brahms – Selig sind, die da Leid tragen
Motets: Croce – In spiritu humilitatis
THURSDAY 29 MARCH: MAUNDY THURSDAY
4:00pm – CHORAL EVENSONG 6:30pm – CHORAL EUCHARIST with
Responses: Ayleward FOOTWASHING
Canticles: Walmisley in D minor Mass setting: Victoria – Missa 'quinti toni'
Anthem: Brahms – Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen Motets: Duruflé – Ubi caritas
Morales – Asperges me
WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY
6:15pm – CHORAL EVENSONG (lower voices) FRIDAY 30 MARCH: GOOD FRIDAY
Responses: Tallis 12 noon – Solemn Liturgy of the
Canticles: Tallis – Short Service Cross
Anthem: Sheppard – In manus tuas To include motets by Schutz, Lotti and Victoria

SUNDAY 4 MARCH 7:30pm – CHORAL TENEBRAE
11:00am – CHORAL EUCHARIST Lamentations: White
Mass setting: Byrd – Mass for five voices
Motet: Byrd – Civitas sancti tui Music for Sunday 1 April (EASTER DAY): To
include Mozart’s Missa brevis in D, and Philips’ Ecce vicit leo

PAGE 30 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS february/march 2018

GLORY AND POWER

Handel’s Messiah

Thursday 22 March
7:00pm
City Recital Hall

The Choir of St James’ and BachBand@St James’

Directed by Warren Trevelyan-Jones

Soloists: Amy Moore, Sally-Anne Russell, Richard Butler, Christopher Richardson

Tickets: www.cityrecitalhall.com
(02) 8256 2222
In person at City Recital Hall Box Office
Information: www.sjks.org.au

LUNCHTIME CONCERTS

Experience the peaceful atmosphere of Sydney’s oldest church as it is filled with music every Wednesday lunchtime
between 1:15pm and 1:45pm. A suggested donation of $5 helps us cover the cost of putting on the concerts.

7 February 7 March
trio pollastri Sydney Camerata

14 February 14 March
SSO Chamber Players Titus Grenyer – Organ

21 February 21 March
Classicum Australis Duo Blockstix

28 February 28 March
NSW Police Band The Choir of St James’

february/march 2018 ST JAMES’ PARISH CONNECTIONS PAGE 31

LENT STUDIES:

The Commandments

Six-week series
Sessions begin week commencing
12 February 2018
Various times and locations

Study booklet $10

To register, email [email protected] or phone 8227 1305

Chrism:

Understanding Holy Oils

The Rev’d Dr Daniel Dries
Wednesday 7 March, 4:30pm-6:00pm

St James’ Hall
$30 adults - $25 concession

Each year St James’ Church and Christ Church St Laurence take it
in turns to host the annual Chrism Eucharist, where Holy Oils are
consecrated for use across the diocese. This seminar explores the
scripural references for the use of oil for annointing, and a practical
guide for the use of Holy Oils in our liturgies.

ST JAMES’
INSTITUTE

In Conversation:

The Rev’d Canon Dr Emma Percy

Sunday 25 March, 2:00pm-3:30pm
St James’ Hall

$30 adults - $25 concession

The 2018 Holy Week Preacher at St James’ will be the Rev’d Canon
Dr Emma Percy, Chaplain and Fellow of Trinity College Oxford, and
Chair of Women and the Church (WATCH) UK.
Come and meet Canon Percy in a conversation with SJI Director
Christopher Waterhouse. Choral Evensong follows at 4:00pm.

ST JAMES’
INSTITUTE