Anglican Diocese of North Queensland

Dear Members of the Diocesan Family

France:
What occurred last Friday evening in Paris was another shocking attack on humanity and the right of people to live life to the full. It is important that we pray for the families who mourn at losing a loved one so unexpectedly, those who are treating the nearly one hundred victims who are in a critical condition, and the other three hundred or so who are undergoing treatment. It is important that we pray for the families of these folk along with the medical and nursing staff who are caring for them.

I often comment in my Confirmation sermons that we promise to renounce evil. What happened in France and at other times in the past where there have been horrific attacks on people is evil. As officials have commented and I often comment, we cannot stand idly by when there is evil. It was Edmund Burke who said, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men (people) do nothing." We cannot afford to do nothing. We need to speak up and address evil. We need to be proactive to make sure evil does not progress. I recall a lady saying to me once that the only thing she could do now in her state of health was pray and as she said, I thank God at least I can pray.

It is important that we pray for the world leaders as they address the matter of terrorism. At the time of writing we await the G20 communiqué. The APEC is later this week. It is also important that we pray for our military personnel and for those who are serving our nation at present.

The Anglican Communion Office has issued the following prayer:
“Compassionate God and Father of all, we are horrified at violence in so many parts of the world. It seems that none are safe, and some are terrified. Hold back the hands that kill and maim; turn around the hearts that hate. Grant instead your strong Spirit of Peace – peace that passes our understanding but changes lives, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

I know many parishes have sought to minister to people in various ways. Thank you to those who have kept the Church open.

The Reverend Barbara Blackford – Hinchinbrook Parish:
It was announced on Sunday that Barbara will be retiring as the Rector of Hinchinbrook on 31 January, 2016. We thank Barbara for her ministry over the last nearly eight years and assure her of our prayers as she takes leave and concludes her ministry in the Parish. We also assure Darrel of our prayers at this time.
I have begun the process of seeking a new Rector and I ask for your prayers for the Parish Nominators and the Diocesan Appointments Board.

The Reverend Ron Watson – Weipa Parish:
At the end of the year, Ron will be concluding his ministry at Weipa. Weipa is a Co-operating Parish with the Uniting Church. We thank Ron and his wife Heather for a faithful and committed ministry over the past nearly five years. Ron was committed to going on patrol and called on Kowanyama and Pormpuraaw, which was greatly appreciated. We wish Ron and Heather every blessing for the future.

17 December - Diocesan Gathering:
The Annual Diocesan End of Year Gathering will be held on Thursday 17 December commencing at 6pm at the Lodge, 39 Water Street, Mundinbgurra. All are welcome. For catering purposes, please let my PA know if you are planning to attend.

This Sunday - Christ the King:
This Sunday is the last Sunday of the Liturgical Year. It is important that we focus on Christ who is our King as Scripture states in Revelation 19:16 and 1 Timothy 6:15 "King of Kings and Lord of Lords".

I find this Sunday is a great opportunity for us to reflect on the past liturgical year and ask ourselves are there any areas we need to address in our Christian faith as we move forward to a new liturgical year.

In fact on Sunday at the Cathedral I will be inviting the congregation to renew their baptismal vows as we move into Year C, so that we can truly service our Lord our Saviour, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

The Class of 2015:
This week is Speech Night/Day week. People often ask me how can I go to so many of them! Well I am enlivened by each Speech Night/Day. Our young people are so gifted and talented. It is wonderful to hear what has been achieved in the past year. As I attend these functions I have great hope for the future.

I wish the Year 12 students every blessing for the years ahead. May you build on the foundation given to you by your parents and the school and make the most of the years ahead.

University:
I am aware that many of our people are undertaking final assessment at University. We wish you well as you sit exams or undergo practical exams or final assignments. Years ago when someone graduated from University they got a position in the workforce. Sadly this is not always the case today and I pray that you will find employment that is fulfilling, satisfying and challenging.

Prayers:
You will be aware from news bulletins in regard to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse of the abuse that has occurred in some of our schools. Please continue to pray for the Royal Commission in its work and for all victims and their families who are suffering.

Wishing you every blessing,
Yours in Christ,

The Right Reverend William (Bill) Ray
Bishop of North Queensland