Statement on Israel Folau — Archbishop Glenn Davies — 9 April 2018
Here is a Media Statement from Archbishop Glenn Davies –
“The way Israel Folau is treated will be a test of Australian Rugby’s ‘inclusion’ policy.
Israel Folau should be free to hold and express traditional, Biblical views on marriage and sexuality without being penalized – just as other players have spoken out with their differing views.
Rugby Australia has said ‘rugby is a game for all, regardless of sexuality, race, religion or gender’ and it would be hypocritical for administrators to censure a player for expressing views which spring from his own faith and conscience.
Dr Glenn Davies
Archbishop of Sydney
9 April 2018.”
– Background, from MailOnline:
”Israel Folau defiant ahead of D-day meeting with Rugby bosses”
“Wallabies star Israel Folau has received the support of some of Australia’s top religious figures for his outspoken views on homosexuality.
Folau, a devout Christian, has been under fire for social media comments saying gay people would go to ‘hell unless they repent of their sins and turn to God’.
The comments have left Rugby Australia in a tough situation as major sponsors prepare to walk away if he continues to post in such a matter.
But the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, Glenn Davies, told The Australian it was a matter of free speech, and Folau should be allowed to have an individual view…”
St Mark’s Picton restoration almost complete
“The historic St Mark’s Anglican Church, in Picton, will open its doors to the public for an open day on Thursday, April 12.
Almost two years on from the floods which caused extensive damage to the church building and cemetery, repairs have restored the church to its former glory. …”
– Daily Telegraph story. (Photo: St. Mark’s Picton.)
Cricket scandal a lesson in forgiveness — Archbishop Glenn Davies
On Easter Sunday morning at the Cathedral, Archbishop Glenn Davies spoke of forgiveness in the context of the Cricket scandal.
Nine News had this report. Reuters had another.
Food, perhaps, for conversation at work today?
Archbishop of Sydney Glenn Davies’ Easter message 2018
“The leader of Australia’s largest Anglican Diocese, the Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, has urged Christians to be talk about their faith, especially at Easter. …”
A most encouraging message. Read about it here – and you could download it from Vimeo to use in church.
Moore College Graduation 2018 — Occasional Address
Dr Peter Jensen gave the Occasional Address at last week’s Moore College 2018 Graduation.
He particularly spoke to the parents of the graduates, to explain why their children had been “studying God”.
“You will be changed by the study of God. … We are getting to know God. We are relating to him, on his own terms. … And this is not something to be undertaken lightly.”
See also the Graduand interviews – with Talar and Mike.
Most encouraging, and good to share.
Every member at Nexus
“It’s described as ‘the most significant conference for Sydney Anglican clergy’ and it’s happening again this month.
The Nexus Conference began in 2009 and has grown over the years, with over 350 people expected to attend and more live streaming around the country…”
– SydneyAnglicans.net on Nexus, coming up next Monday at Annandale.
Mark Earngey to join Faculty of Moore College
“We are delighted to announce that the Moore College Governing Board has accepted the Principal’s nomination of the Rev Mark Earngey to join the College faculty from 1 September this year. …”
– Read here at the MTC website.
Modern Slavery — Angela Michael video
Angela Michael from the Miracle School ministries in Pakistan visited Sydney and met Christian Democrat MP Paul Green who introduced the Modern Slavery Bill into the NSW Parliament.
Angela works with families trapped by debt servitude into working at brick kilns in Pakistan.
The Archbishop of Sydney’s Anglican Aid helps support educating the children and freeing the families from debt.
Watch on Vimeo – from Anglican Media Sydney.
Moore College Graduation 2018
“Around 600 people gathered, as 105 graduates received their awards. Through interviews and videos, and the announcement of ministry destinations for each graduate, the depth and breadth of the work of the College was made clear to all. This year graduates left us to serve the gospel of Christ in England, New Zealand, Taiwan and New Caledonia, as well as rural Australia and across the city of Sydney.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Graduation Address by former Principal and former Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Peter Jensen …”
– Moore College has this report on Monday night’s graduation.
Reflections on the Thanksgiving Service for Billy Graham
St. Andrew’s Cathedral was packed for this afternoon’s Thanksgiving Service for Billy Graham.
Anglican Media Sydney’s Russell Powell spoke with some of the attendees.
Diocese of Sydney Media Statement on Redress Scheme
Anglican Diocese of Sydney – Media Statement
“We welcome the decision of the New South Wales Government to join the Commonwealth Government’s Redress Scheme for survivors of child sexual abuse.
The Diocese of Sydney continues to be committed to meeting its responsibilities towards those who have suffered because of the appalling acts which have been perpetrated on vulnerable children in our care.
For many years, the Diocese has had a redress policy offering care and assistance for survivors of child sexual abuse and payments continue to be made from that scheme.
The maximum amount available from our scheme is already $150,000 which is in line with the Prime Minister’s announcement today.
The Diocese looks forward to receiving further details of the arrangements of the scheme and working constructively with both State and Federal Governments on this issue.
9 March 2018.”
– Source: SydneyAnglicans.net
Modern Slavery Bill 2018 — Diocese of Sydney media statement
Anglican Diocese of Sydney – Media Statement
“The Bill against modern slavery being tabled today by Paul Green MLC deserves the wholehearted support of the Parliament and the people of NSW”, says Archbishop Glenn Davies, who will be present in the Legislative Council for the occasion.
Human Trafficking is an abhorrent form of modern slavery. It is a transnational crime which preys upon the most vulnerable. Human trafficking should be abolished in all its forms from our world, along with other practices of enslavement, such as servitude, forced labour, debt bondage, organ trafficking, deceptive recruiting, as well as forced marriage and childhood brides.
“Such practices are a blight on our society, as they were in the days of William Wilberforce, and I urge all people, especially Christians, to join the fight to eradicate slavery in all its forms.” the Archbishop said.
– Source: SydneyAnglicans.net
Mardi Gras: An opportunity to love and serve others
“Thousands of people decked out in glitter and rainbows will be passing Vine Church Surry Hills this Saturday night, celebrating the annual Mardi Gras parade. And as they walk by, they’ll have the opportunity to grab a bite to eat or sit and relax as Vine Church opens the parish grounds to the public. …”
– Read the story at SydneyAnglicans.net – and remember to pray for all involved.
Sydney to give thanks for Billy Graham on Friday 9th March
St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney will host a special thanksgiving service for the life and ministry of Billy Graham. Read more
Billy Graham Preaches in Sydney
“In ideal weather conditions, Billy Graham’s Sydney Crusade opened at the Show Ground with record first day’s crowd of over 50000 Dr. Graham’s address was simple, direct, and Bible based, of about forty minutes’ duration, concluding with an invitation for decisions…”
– In memory of his life, and with thanksgiving to God for his ministry – the Australian Church Record has re-published their report on the opening night of the Billy Graham 1959 Sydney Crusade.
(Photo from his 1979 Crusade, courtesy Ramon Williams.)