Blog
News from the executive
Congratulations to all our 2021 ARPA Award Winners!
The Executive team and members of The Australasian Religious Press Association wish to thank the judges for the care and concern with which they have made their judgments in all of the 2021 ARPA Awards.
ARPA appreciates this willingness and thanks the judges for their involvement in the 2021 Awards which are such an important part of the work of the Association.
See the full list of winners, including judges’ comments, here.
We recognise that living in a world with COVID-19 presents all kinds of uncomfortable realities for our members. These have included budget cuts, working restrictions, and significant pressures on home and family life.
It also presents ARPA with challenges: How do we operate as a trans-Tasman group without highly accessible and risk-free travel? We also face the challenge of dwindling membership and engagement from members.
ARPA Conference 2021
While the trans-Tasman travel bubble has opened travel between Australia and New Zealand, the risk of travel is still high for many people who cannot afford to get stuck on either side, or the unknown physical cost of catching COVID-19.
Adding to this is the financial risk of cancelling an event at the last minute due to restrictions. With our current budget, we simply cannot afford this kind of loss.
For these reasons, we are not holding a trans-Tasman ARPA Conference in 2021.
Instead, we will continue to run the ARPA Awards, and encourage local chapters to gather in COVID-safe ways to celebrate together. It is our hope that if enough of us are meeting, we may be able to connect with each other via video link for an Awards Presentation in September.
Video-based Professional Development
Over the next year we are hoping to provide you with opportunities to upskill, connect and share—in person where we can and via digital platforms where we can’t meet face-to-face. We’re going to look at ways to encourage and foster new and existing members. We’re going to need to be flexible, creative, and open to change.
With this in mind we are planning on introducing regular Professional Development sessions, offered via Zoom, to connect members, to encourage us to upskill and share our expertise. These will be 1 - 1.5 hour interactive Zoom workshops offered free to ARPA members, and open to non-members for a small fee. More details about these will be available soon.
Please get in touch if you’d like to suggest a presenter, or facilitator for one of these sessions.
If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to be in touch with me directly.
Sophia Sinclair
Dear ARPA members,
Thank you all for your continued support of ARPA, especially in a time of change and transition.
2020 was an extraordinary year with COVID-19 disrupting life for all of us. 2020 was the first time in ARPA’s history that our annual conference was cancelled due to travel and gathering restrictions. The ARPA Awards went ahead digitally, without the fanfare of a special dinner or applause.
Despite the difficulties, we have seen some things return to normal. Our Auckland-based group has continued to meet regularly in the midst of changing restrictions. And others have stepped up to connect with members around them and encourage one another.
I’m grateful for the work of the executive team: Treasurer, Allan Sauer OAM, who has continued in this role to help maintain continuity and willingly share his experience and ARPA knowledge; Secretary and Australian Vice-President, Mark Brolly, who has served in his role while enduring significant restrictions in Melbourne; and our new Executive Officer, Amanda Jusaitis, whose first term as EO has been unlike any other! I would also like to acknowledge our newest team member, Michelle McDonald, editor of anglican focus, who replaces Peter March as Communications Officer. Peter has moved on to a new role with the Australian Army—thank you Peter for your time on our team and welcome Michelle.
We recognise that living in a world with COVID-19 presents all kinds of uncomfortable realities for you, our members. These have included budget cuts, working restrictions, and significant pressures on home and family life.
It also presents ARPA with challenges: How do we operate as a trans-Tasman group without highly accessible and risk-free travel? We also face the challenge of dwindling membership and engagement from members.
Over the next year we are hoping to provide you with opportunities to upskill, connect and share—in person where we can and via digital platforms where we can’t meet face-to-face. We’re going to look at ways to encourage and foster new and existing members. We’re going to need to be flexible, creative, and open to change.
Two things come up every time we ask what our members value about ARPA: the connections made with other communicators, and the peer recognition of the ARPA Awards. As an executive team we believe ARPA is something special and worth investing in. We hope you do too.
We are a group of writers and editors who have the privilege of clearly communicating the best news the world has ever heard. To this end, I pray that God would continue to grant us grace and peace as we seek to speak the truth, promote justice, and share the ways He is at work in our communities.
Sophia Sinclair
Kia ora koutou katoa,
I pray this email finds you safe and well, especially in such difficult times.
We’re aware that the COVID-19 Pandemic, and the ongoing economic effects, may have had a significant impact on you, our members.
Some of you may have had to spend the past few months busier than ever, overwhelmed by stress. Others may be adjusting to steep learning curves as you find new ways to operate. Maybe some of you are facing the very real possibility of a loss of funding, or even a loss of your job.
Whatever your situation, we’d love to hear from you, and hear how we can best support you at this time.
CONFERENCE
Our Executive met last week to discuss our coming plans for our conference in Perth.
We had a lengthy discussion about the current situation and the limitations we now face in light of COVID-19 restrictions in different our countries and states, with the hope that we may be able to find a solution.
Reluctantly, the ARPA Executive has decided to cancel the ARPA Conference for 2020.
In light of this, we will not be awarding the Ramon Williams Scholarship this year, as the scholarship is directly for the purpose of attending the conference. The scholarship levy will also not be charged this year.
While this was a sad decision to make, we are confident it is a decision that takes into regard our trans-Tasman fellowship, the health and safety of our members, and the financial pressure many may be facing.
AWARDS
Now for some brighter news!
We are pleased to confirm that the 2020 ARPA Awards will still go ahead.
Only now, the process will be fully online. We’ll let you know more details about how we will present the awards closer to the date.
In light of the current crisis, we are also pleased to offer an extension to the award entry deadline:
The deadline for 2020 ARPA Award entries is now 30 June 2020.
PLEASE GET IN TOUCH
As I said earlier, we’d love to hear from you.
Whether it’s just an email to let us know your thoughts, or some ideas on how we can best support you during this time.
Our new Executive Officer Amanda Jusaitis is loving getting to know each of you, so please don’t hesitate to drop her an email and introduce yourself. Mandy will be processing the award entries and liaising with the judges.
In uncertain times, I pray each of you will know the certainty of hope in Jesus, even as things around us shift and give way.
Ngā mihi nui,
Sophia Sinclair
ARPA President
Tēnā koutou,
A big thank you to all of you who attended our conference in Christchurch this past weekend.
Every year, there is a line in our conference booklet which reads: 'The Australasian Religious Press Association is YOU’… and it's true. Thank you for attending and being so willing to share your insight, support, encouragement, challenges and friendship.
On a personal level, this was a very moving conference as we reflected together on what it looks like to provide a hope-filled response in disaster and recovery. A very special thank you to all those who presented their experiences and insight—we were moved, challenged and encouraged in our roles as communicators.
Congratulations to all our wonderful award winners! I pray these awards will give you encouragement in what is sometimes a lonely task, and that your readers, oversight teams and supporters would honour your achievements.
While it might seem far off in the distance, now is a great time to start planning for next year’s event in Perth. Keep an eye out on flights, and book it in the diary. We’d love to see you there as we discuss the changing landscape of communication.
Ngā manaakitanga,
Sophia Sinclair
More to come…
The ARPA Executive members are excited about the plans for Christchurch 2019 and look forward to your participation. The ARPA 2019 Christchurch Conference begins with registration and lunch on Friday September and concludes with morning worship on Sunday 8 September and of course the much anticipated Awards Dinner on Saturday 7 September.
Registration fee: A 20% discount (off the individual registration) is available for members registering with 5 or more attendees, provided they pay by 30 June 2019. This would be $240 per registration based on the early bird.
ARPA Registrations: However you pay the registration for the conference, a copy of the registration form must be scanned and forwarded to Elizabeth Harris (eoarpa@bigpond.com)
Plan to attend now: There are some good flight specials available and The Novotel Cathedral Square Hotel venue has been finalised as the venue for the conference. Accommodation is available at the Novotel, Cathedral Square or the nearby Ibis Hotel. Details for accommodation
Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square looks forward to welcoming delegates from Australasian Religious Press Association.Accommodation: ( from 4th -9th of September). Rooms at Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square are subject to availability. These can be accessed online via www.accorhotels.com/6592 preferential code: BGPG or by dialling our Christchurch reservations team on +6433722111
Special Rates Offered: Superior King/Twin Room – Room Only $219.00 per room per night; Restaurant Buffet Breakfast $32.00 per person per day. Alternatively, delegates are now able to self-book at Ibis Christchurch online via www.accorhotels.com/5983 preferential code: BGPG or by dialling our Christchurch reservations team on +6433722111
Special Rates Offered: Standard King/Twin Room – Room Only $139.00 per room per night. Restaurant Buffet Breakfast $25.00 per person per day
Internet: WiFi is included on the Conference Floor, connect to “NOVOTEL CONFERENCE WIRELESS” as a guest and use the code “OPERA”
PARKING
Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square offers a valet parking service on a first come, first served basis. We are delighted to offer you $10 day parking for the duration of your event or 24 hour valet car parking at $35 per vehicle, alternatively public parking options surrounding the hotel which include a Wilson’s public car parking lot directly adjacent to the hotel. The costs for this are currently $2/hour, $5/early bird and $7/overnight.
ARPA Awards.
Members are reminded of the conditions for entry regarding accompanied registrations:
Entry for the annual ARPA Awards must be accompanied by payment of at least one awards dinner ticket, thus confirming intention to attend the awards dinner, or if not accompanied, then written advice confirming intention to attend the awards dinner and an agreement to pay for at least one awards dinner ticket by 4 July of the related conference year.
Reminder: Each member is entitled to lodge 7 Award entries (accompanied by the entry form). If the publication has included staff members in the 2018/9 subs ($50 per member in addition to the basic sub), then they are able to submit one additional entry for each paid up staff member. Please refer to your 2019 directory entry for clarification as only paid up members are included.
Ramon Williams Scholarship for 2019
The deadline for the Ramon Williams Scholarship has been extended to 31 May 2019.
ARPA Citation for Dr John Harrison
Following the 2018 AGM, the ARPA executive reviewed honorary award arrangements and is pleased to report of the well-received advice provided to Dr John Harrison of the awarding of an ARPA Citation. This will be presented at the 2019 ARPA Conference and will be the fifth citation awarded in ARPA’s history.
News from the Executive
A video conference meeting of the ARPA executive was held on May 15 by ZOOM. Among continuing matters and planning for the conference, the executive approved job descriptions for the honorary roles, noting that these would be reviewed each year. The job descriptions will also help as the executive continues to look at succession planning.
A committee for the ARPA conference for 2020 in Perth (4-6 September) has been formed, and will begin to liaise with ACPA about local arrangements.
Question for the 2019 AGM and following. The Executive would like to hear from members on the question of ARPA 2024: What is your vision for ARPA? 2024 will be ARPA’s 50th anniversary.
Zoom Chapter Meetings: The executive raised the possibility of chapters holding zoom based meetings to encourage greater networking and support, especially noting that travel is often difficult for members today.
Next ARPA Executive meeting: 12 August.
Kia ora koutou katoa to our Australian ARPA members!
Coming to NZ for the ARPA conference this year? Then why not take a couple of extra days and a few more dollars and treat yourself to seeing a little more of our magnificent ‘shaky isles’.
Recently my wife and I flew into Christchurch from Wellington for a family event. Afterwards we took the slow way home – by train and ferry. It took a day’s travelling but it was totally worthwhile and a day trip I would highly recommend.
We boarded the Coastal Pacific passenger train in Christchurch in time for a 7.00 a.m. departure, heading to Picton. The journey took about six hours, including a few stops. Then a 3-hour ferry trip from Picton to Wellington, arriving at 5.30 p.m.
The Christchurch-to-Picton railway line only opened again last December after it had suffered major damage in the November 2016 Kaikoura 7.8 earthquake. The repairs to the road and the railway – which run closely together along the coastal part of the line – were massive and are still being completed. You get great views of the extent of destruction and the impressive repairs, as the train travels north. Nowadays, you may not see much of what the Christchurch earthquake left in its wake, but from the train, you will certainly get a vivid idea of the devastation left by the Kaikoura earthquake and some idea of the bravery of some of the abseilers, among others, who made the repairs.
There’s an on-board commentary that gives details of the places the train passes through and, of course, information about the earthquake and its aftermath.
The train itself has very comfortable seating. Carriages are heated and there is an on-board café, the offerings of which would satisfy anyone’s hunger or thirst.
The Coastal Pacific Train arrives in the delightful port of Picton in good time for you to take a leisurely walk to the waiting Inter-islander ferry.
When the ferry pulls out from the wharf at 2.15 p.m. you will enjoy a flat sea as you wend your way through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds for about an hour. Then you will hit Cook Strait. Depending on the weather, tide, currents and wind, you may have a very pleasant and relatively calm 75-minute crossing of the Strait, though this stretch of water can be quite unforgiving. A relative calmness returns for 30 minutes or so as you then enter Wellington Harbour and eventually dock at the northern end of the city environs.
If you want to catch the early flight home from Wellington the next morning, you could book into the newly-opened Rydges Hotel at the Wellington airport. No matter how early your plane leaves, you are just a short, covered walk away from your room to the check-in counter. All so easy and stress-free!
An early morning arrival in Australia means you may well be in the office before any others get there!
Errol Pike
Wellington
In and around Christchurch (if you arrive early or intend leaving later…)
https://soaringkiwi.co.nz/products/christchurch-hop-on-hop-off
http://www.chchattractions.co.nz
For the young and/or adventurous:
https://christchurchadventurepark.com/
The International Antarctic Centre (a ‘must-see’ if you have time):
New Zealand’s military aviation story at the place it all began:
https://www.airforcemuseum.co.nz/
Christchurch has no zoo as such, but some say this is even better, if different:
http://www.oranawildlifepark.co.nz/
In Kaikoura you can leave the Coastal Pacific train in Kaikoura and re-board the next day so you can go whale-watching:
There’s much to see in the port of Picton so why not stay there for a night or two?:
https://www.explorepicton.co.nz/
If you have a few spare days, here’s one of the best train journeys ever (why not train to Greymouth and hire a car there and to drive back to Christchurch?):
https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/tranzalpine/
If skiing is your thing, make a visit to Mt Hutt (only one hour 45 minutes drive from Christchurch):
To travel by train and ferry from Christchurch to Wellington, check out these websites for information and bookings:
https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/coastal-pacific/
https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/interislander/
Air New Zealand, Qantas and Jetstar fly daily to the major eastern seaboard cities of Australia, many departing before 7.00a.m. most days.
Anglican Church of Australia
In the compressed events of the three days of Easter, from Good Friday to Easter Day, we have rich themes for reflection and contemplation. As our society becomes increasingly secularised the deeper story of Christianity is known by fewer people.
Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection from the dead are foundational events for Christians,in fact world-defining events that have continuing significance today. All humans, if they are honest with themselves, know what it is to fail, to let themselves and others down. When these failures become collective, they can be catastrophic – and the evidence is all around us, today and through the ages.
War, famine, pestilence, persecution, exploitation, abuse and much more can often be laid at the feet of human ambition and selfishness. Humankind wants to construct the world according to a vision of utopia, but our weaknesses and lack of understanding often lead to failure. Communism is an obvious example of such a theory. It was intended to combat injustice and to improve the plight of the impoverished and marginalised but ended up instead perpetrating more injustice and rendering people more miserable.
But the greatest calamity that fell humanity is found in Genesis, with the account of our alienation from and rejection of God. Logically, the story should end there, with God a distant, transcendent figure. But God, in the infinite mercy and compassion shown through Jesus, does not allow human failure the last word. God’s word – present, we are told, from the time of Creation – is incarnate inthe world in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. He is God’s means of rescue and salvation, fullypresent as a person like us.
And that is what we celebrate at Easter. The events of the first Good Friday seemed to Jesus’followers like failure, desolation and despair. But by Easter Day the opposite was true, with thegood news of hope and salvation. Jesus’ resurrection would define the religion that developed inhis name. In the story of the Garden of Eden, Adam acted as the head of humankind. In the same way what Jesus did on the cross he also did as the head of all who believe. As the Bible teaches, we were crucified together with Christ, we were buried with Christ, and we are risen together with him.
For Christians, no calamity, however unbearable, is the end of the story. This is what Christians celebrate at Easter.
Archbishop Philip Freier, Primate Anglican Church of Australia
Diocese of the Armenian Church of Australia and New Zealand
“God shows His love toward us, in that while we were sinners, Christ died for us... we know that Christ, been raised from the dead...likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead to sin, and alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 5:8; 6: 9-11)
Beloved Faithful,
On behalf of our Diocesan Clergy, Council and all Diocesan establishments we congratulate you on the feast of Holy Easter, the Glorious Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Resurrection of our Lord is the anchor of our faith, it was so for the Apostles and thus for all the Christians from generation to generation.
Resurrection declares life’s victory over death, the light radiating from the tomb of Christ, heraldsthe annihilation of darkness, Our Lord proclaimed the greatest teaching of love with His self-offering on the cross, through His blood shed on the cross He wiped the sin, Satan’s seal from theforehead of humanity, to find the paradise lost and the way to our Heavenly Father.
This year’s theme in our church is the Family. If the Love of the Risen Lord does not dwell in ourdwelling the rest is in vain. The true love, respect and commitment makes the family’s life span longer and meaningful. Child’s religious and traditional education starts at home, it is here that the child will receive the first instructions on the Christian faith and your way of life as parents will be copied and followed. You will be the ones to direct the first footstep of the child to the church; and it is here that the child will be nourished spiritually, grow and mature with his spiritual inheritance, armoured with the light of Resurrection and with the hope of victory to confront all the challenges of this life.
It is our prayers that the Risen Lord might dwell in your hearts, and strengthen you with the victory of life, where is despair give you hope, where weakness courage, where fear strength and where hate love. Having nurtured ourselves with teachings of our Lord and with the vision of the victorious resurrection we can persevere as an individual, as a family, as a community and bring our input for the preservation of this land and for the final victory of the good.
“O Christ, we are all enlightened through your light and to your holy cross we believers have entrusted” (Sunrise Service)
Christ is risen from the dead, blessed is the Resurrection of Christ
Archbishop Haigazoun Najarian, Primate
Diocese of the Armenian Church of Australia and New Zealand
Catholic Church in Australia
In many ways the world and the church are passing through dark times, and the question is how tomake sense of the darkness. We aren’t the first to face that question. It lies at the heart of theBible which is a grand and complex answer to the question, What does the darkness mean?
The Hebrew Bible came forth from the darkness of the Babylonian Exile when the religious world of ancient Israel seemed to have collapsed. The People of God sifted through the embers of hopelessness and found a spark of hope which eventually became the great flame of Judaism.
The New Testament emerged from the darkness of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans and the persecution in Rome under Nero. To make sense of the darkness the early Christians turned to the death of Jesus. Calvary looked like the collapse of hope: as the disciples on the roadto Emmaus say, “Our hope had been that he would be the one to set Israel free” (Luke 24:21).
Facing into the darkness of the world and the church, we too turn to the Cross. Evil is powerful and the darkness is real. But the greater power which raised Jesus from the dead – we call it the love of God – will bring good from evil, light from darkness. So when we kindle the new fire at Easter we go to the very heart of biblical religion, finding fresh hope in the midst of what seems to behopelessness. That’s why even now we will sing the songs of joy. The victory belongs to love.
Forgiveness is the door through which healing peace enters our world this Easter.
One of the last statements of Jesus on the Calvary Cross was: “Father, forgive them for they knownot what they do.” (Luke 23/24). Forgiveness of every person who harms us is one of the great saving lessons of Good Friday.
Then, the first words of the Risen Lord Jesus at the Resurrection Victory of Easter is: “Peace be
with you.” (Luke 24/36). Easter peace is the first gift to us from our healing God.
This Easter let us receive these gifts of forgiveness and healing peace like never before! Let us begin in our hearts, so easily torn apart by bitterness and selfishness.
Let forgiveness and healing peace flow into our families and friends. May these gifts give us courage to develop real neighbourliness to those in our streets and communities. Let the homeless and lonely this Easter receive not more pious sentiments but real practical charity and care.
Let the forgiveness and healing peace of the Risen Lord Jesus reign this Easter! May we be filled with joy and hope.
Happy Easter to all!
Archbishop Christopher Prowse, Archbishop of Canberra and Goulburn Apostolic Administrator Of Wagga Wagga
Chinese Methodist Church in Australia
May the joy and peace of the resurrection of Jesus Christ be with you all! The resurrection of Jesusis the foundation of the Christian faith. Paul said, “And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.” (1 Cor. 15:17 NLT)
Romans 4:25, “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” Here we see two important facts about Jesus: First, Jesus was handed over to man because of our sins. God’s purpose in giving up his Son is to provide forgiveness for the transgressions we had committed. Second, the resurrection of Jesus is to justify us. Jesus was raised for the sake of our justification. These are two basic teachings for Christianity: first, Jesus died to pay for our sinful debts; second, Jesus was resurrected to make us righteous so that we have a right relationship with God, our creator.
Let’s continuously acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and rely on his grace, help andstrengthen to face our daily challenges in this world.
Bishop Dr Albert Wong
Chinese Methodist Church in Australia
Churches of Christ in Australia
Easter is a journey, one that Jesus takes, and one that we are invited to take as well. The experiences in this journey are contrasting. Contrast Jesus’ prophetic entry into Jerusalem and theintimacy of the Last Supper with the betrayal, unfair trial, desertion of friends and public death without compassion or justice. This is a journey that seems to end in violence and emptiness.
After the silence of the tomb comes a cry of amazement. He is Risen! This joyous discovery is confirmed by several friends of Jesus who have intimate and personal encounters with the Risen Jesus. After these precious moments they share the news with others and so the Christian witness to the Risen Christ begins.
These contrasts of the Easter journey reflect human experience. The rising hope, shattered dreams, betrayal, desertion and the silence of hopelessness. People in many settings know this to be true. Whether they be victims of abuse or violence, crippled with regret and disappointment, people waiting in camps for a secure place to live or others seeking meaning amidst hopelessness and despair.
The Joy of Easter is that these experiences do not have the final word. The Risen Christ brings forgiveness, healing, grace and new life. We are invited to embrace this with wonder and deep confidence, and as we do so we find the promised new life for ourselves and see the potential for others as well. This is the Easter journey towards new life.
Rev John Gilmore
Churches of Christ in Australia
Congregational Federation of Australia and New Zealand
“NO MORE OF THIS!”
Luke’s Gospel tells us about Jesus’ arrest at Easter:
When Jesus’ followers saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. But Jesusanswered, “No more of this!” And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.
It was Peter who struck at the servant. Impetuous Peter. Act first, think later Peter.
Jesus’ response has echoed down through time. “No more of this!” No more, ever. The use of violence has to stop. The endless cycle of repaying hurt with hurt, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, is at an end no matter what you think your motivations are.
Peter was willing to fight and injure people in defence of Jesus. Like Peter, many of us justify using violence in defence of a worthy cause. We are good people who would never strike out either physically or in words, unless it was needed. And how often we find it is needed! To protect ourselves, our loved ones, our property, our reputations, our points of view, or to correct other people who lack our insight into the errors of their ways. The sad fact is that violence is within us and so often we are looking for an excuse to unleash it.
If violence is within us it lies within ourselves to stop it: “No more of this!”
This Easter, may we honour the sacrifice that Christ made for us by saying with him to ourselves,
“No more of this!”
Dr Joe Goodall, Moderator
The Congregational Federation of Australia and New Zealand
Coptic Orthodox Church – Diocese of Sydney and Affiliated Regions
Christ is Risen, Truly He is Risen!!
It is my pleasure to wish you all the blessings of the Glorious Feast of the Resurrection of Christ our Saviour. St. Paul says, "That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection." (Philippians 3:10).
The resurrection has power. This power is stronger than anything. The resurrection is not a historical event but a functional status for man to live by, experience and enjoy. The resurrection confirms that death is not the end of the road. It was the resurrection that raised Mary Magdalene when she was in doubt. While in her sadness, she thought that Christ was the gardener. When He called her by name, she joyfully greeted Him.
The resurrection alleviated the disciples from their fear. They had been terrified and kept all doors shut. When the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to them, the Bible says: "Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord." (John 20:20). Resurrection raises man from sin. Man cannot rise from the impurity of sin except by the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ that pleased all mankind when He was crucified and died on the cross for the sake of all.
May the light of the risen Christ fill your families and homes with abundant spiritual strength and joy. Christ bless Australia, its Government and its people.
Bishop Daniel
With the Grace of God
Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church - Diocese of Sydney & Affiliated Regions
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
At Easter we remember the crucifixion of Jesus, a particularly horrifying death. Yet, out of that time of torment and despair came a resounding message of hope, forgiveness and compassion.
The message of the carpenter’s son of Nazareth is as vital for the troubled world of today as it was 2,000 years ago. In the words of William Penn “Force may subdue but love gains”.
In peace,
Jo Jordan, Presiding Clerk
Religious Society of Friends in Australia (Quakers)
The Salvation Army, Australia
Dear Friends
In the early hours of the third day, his followers went to the tomb. There they found nothing thatthey expected. His body wasn’t there. The stone, rolled away, now revealed an empty tomb. It wasthis moment of finding ‘nothing’ expected that changed everything. It changed everything then andstill changes everything today.
It was only when they found nothing, that the disciples began to realise everything had truly changed. This empty tomb discovery was the beginning of a journey into a new and deepening understanding of Jesus, his teaching and mission. The life-changing implications of finding nothing they had anticipated in that tomb would take a lifetime to come to understand. But it was the discovery of a resurrected Jesus that changed everything, in that moment and for the rest of their lives.
The stone that sealed the tomb had been rolled away, not so Jesus could escape the grave, but so that his disciples would find nothing.
In all of our abundance and ability to find what’s needed in the moment, it is not until we find the ‘nothing’ of the empty tomb that we truly experience the heartfelt longing for deep change. As wegaze into the truth of the empty tomb once again this Easter, may we hear the invitation to embrace the deep change and transformation that finding the tomb empty offers. Know afresh that every promise God has made to us he is faithful to keep – the empty tomb is proof of his faithfulness to his promise (Psalm 119:89-90). Know afresh that the same power that raised Christ from the dead, is the power that is available to us today through his Spirit (Ephesians 1:19-20).
Those that found the tomb empty, even before they could fully understand all that it meant, knew that others needed to know that finding ‘nothing’ does change everything. Let’s not wait until wehave fully understood all that the empty tomb means. That will take a lifetime. There are others all around us waiting for the word of hope that change is possible, because the tomb is empty.Nothing’ still changes everything!
Commissioner Floyd Tidd, Territorial Commander
The Salvation Army, Australia
The ARPA Executive wish all members a blessed and peaceful Easter.
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” (Luke 24: 5b-7)
The executive sent the following messages to our NZ Members.
Dear all,
On behalf of the ARPA executive, members and staff in Australia, I am sending condolences to you following the terrible shootings in Christchurch and wish you to know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. May God’s hand guide you through this event and we look forward to seeing you all in Christchurch in September.
Elizabeth Harris (Executive Officer)
Dear Colleagues in New Zealand
I extend to you and the people of New Zealand our love, prayers and encouragement in Christ as you stand together in unity against the shocking and hate-filled act of violence in Christchurch.
My thoughts and prayers to our NZ members and our NZ Vice-President Sophia Sinclair, especially as you work with your own communities at this time to communicate a message of faith and hope.
Our annual conference will be held in Christchurch in September 2019, and I confirm our commitment to meeting and being with our members and supporting in whatever way we can, the people in Christchurch and New Zealand.
Peace and grace
Peter Bentley
President 2018-2019
A meeting of the ARPA executive was held at Stanmore House in Sydney 1-2 February 2019. Among a plethora of matters, the following are noted:
The ARPA occasional e-newsletter has been re-named to maintain a link with the previous printed bulletin publication.
The matter of nominations for life membership has been reviewed and the award base confirmed as a focus on the organisation itself, with the awarding of citations noted as appropriate for wider Christian media service.
The annual review of the ARPA awards was undertaken. The categories and numbers were maintained for 2019.
Sophia Sinclair provided an overview of the speakers and arrangements for the 2019 Christchurch conference (6-8 September), highlighting the possibility of excursions and local talks. The Novotel Cathedral Square venue has been finalised.
Following liaison with ACPA, it was agreed to hold the ARPA conference for 2020 in Perth. ARPA and ACPA are liaising about the venue and arrangements.
The resignation of the Louise Mackay as Minutes Secretary was received, and we extend our appreciation to Louise for her service in this role.
2019 ARPA AGM Discussion Focus.Start to think now about contributing thoughts to the question - ARPA 2024: what and where will we be?
MORE INFORMATION:
2019 AWARDS: The Award conditions and entry forms have been mailed to all members, together with a copy of the Directory for those who requested hard copies. Please let Elizabeth know if you did not receive this mailing or did not receive the Directory (or how many copies you requested).
RAMON WILLIAMS SCHOLARSHIP: The entry information for the scholarship was also mailed with the Award information. Again, if you did not receive this, please let Elizabeth know.
REGISTRATION FORMS: for the Conference in Christchurch in September (6th– 8th) will be available shortly and will again be mailed to all members. The form will also be available on line
DIRECTORY INFORMATION: Already the 2019 Directory is “out of date” as staff come and go; email addresses change etc. It would be a great help if members could remember to advice the EO of any changes so that firstly we can reach you when we want you and secondly, so can others.
ARPA Executive 2018-2019 (Contact details please see the ARPA website or directory)
President: Peter Bentley
NZ Vice-President and Communications Officer: Sophia Sinclair
Australian Vice-President: Mark Brolly
Treasurer: Allan Sauer
Executive Officer: Elizabeth Harris.
Communications Officer: Peter March
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. (Luke 2: 8-11)
We hope members will continue to encourage each other through the formal ARPA Christmas gatherings (as arranged) or informal times over the Christmas and New Year period.
Congratulations to all the 2018 Award winners and especially to NZ Baptist for being the Gutenberg winner
and to Others, The Salvation Army for becoming the - The Neumann and Turnour* ‘Publication of the Year’.
In September a couple of Baptist magazine staff members attended the annual Australasian Religious Press Association (ARPA) Conference. At the awards evening, the Baptist came away with the ARPA Gutenberg Award for overall excellence in Christian newspaper and magazine publishing. Entries are judged on the quality of journalism, layout, production and use of professional and creative skills to communicate the message of the gospel. We also picked up a couple of writing awards:
Gold for Best Headline for an article by Charles Hewlett, entitled "I'm glad you're not my doctor".
Bronze for Best Theological Article for an article by Dr Sarah Harris, entitled "God made me lime green".
The judging period for the awards was the 2017 calendar year, so kudos for the above awards go to the magazine team at that time, especially to the following: Sarah Vaine (former editor), Rebecca McLeay (Graphic Designer), and Jill Hitchcock (former Production Manager), and of course to Charles and Sarah for their contributions.
Congratulations to Josh Low (Record/E-Record, Perth) for becoming the 2018 Ramon Williams Scholarship Winner. Not only was Josh the scholarship winner but also judged to be the best-dressed person at the Conference. Well done Josh and well done for winning a Bronze Award in the Category “Best New Writer”. We look forward to Josh’s contributions to ARPA in 2019.
The short video interview with Rev Keith Garner AM from Wesley Mission can be viewed here.
It’s official: The Novotel Hotel, Cathedral Square, Christchurch has been booked for the 2019 ARPA Conference 6th-8th September. Start thinking about attending this Conference which will reflect on the Christchurch earthquakes with a theme of ‘Providing a Hope-filled response in a time of disaster and recovery’.
Presentation by Dr Matthew Turnour of Neumann and Turnour, Brisbane at the 2018 Australasian Religious Press Association Conference held at Novotel, Brisbane on Saturday 8th September 2018.
Good evening,
I really would like to say one primary thing to you as a group and that is Thank you. Thank you for your role in supporting individuals. Thank you for your role in providing a voice for communities. Thank you for your role in society. Over my 30 years as a Christian I have drawn much encouragement from many of the journals represented here, as have others in our firm. So, the first thing I would like to say thank you for is just your role in supporting and encouraging each of us in our faith.
The second thing I particularly would like to thank you for is being a voice for communities that are not necessarily able to find that voice in the mainstream media. It is my view that specialist focus media serving communities will become more and more important as society seems to be continually fragmenting.
Finally, I wish to acknowledge the role that many of you play in our wider society in speaking truth and in so doing resisting participating in the phenomenon of “fake news” and the breakdown in civil public discourse. My expectation is that you will play an increasingly trusted role in disseminating information that is known to be true.
So, in conclusion my firm considers it a privilege to be a Silver sponsor of this conference. We thank you for the work that you do and are appreciative of your contribution.
1-2 February, Stanmore House, Sydney. We value your prayers as we plan for 2019.
