Our Diocesan theme for 2023 is the Communion Forest.
The Archbishop of Canterbury writes the following in relation to the Communion Forest:
“We are living at a time of multiple global crises, emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and with climate change, conflict and an emerging food crisis. We need symbols and actions of hope. The Communion Forest is a symbol and act of hope”.
On a Diocesan and parish level, parishioners are encouraged to be involved in a wide range of creation care activities throughout the year. Tree giving and planting will take place to celebrate special occasions across the Diocese.
Parishes are encouraged to think about setting up plant and vegetable exchanges and to even organise monthly plant stalls.
Parishioners could meet for a walk in designated bushland, organise a speaker to share a gardening interest or have an Open Garden. Parishioners could also be involved in or initiate local community initiatives which relate to the environment.
It would be good to receive feedback on what individual parishes are organising throughout the year as we are nurtured by nature and God’s never-ending care for His people.
https://www.communionforest.org/
Advent Reflections 2024
This Advent the Ministry Development Committee has prepared some reflections on four themes for Advent – God’s Promise, Prophets, John the Baptist and Mary, together with some craft activities and music.
Thank You Jesus
Thank you Jesus is a small booklet of prayers for children. It can be used with church groups, given at baptisms or used as a gift for children and grandchildren.
Season of Creation
This year the Communion Forest through the Diocese of Southern Africa has put together a wonderful set of resources that can be used by members of our Diocese.
Jesus – Master Storyteller
This is a day for all people involved in ministry and leadership in local parishes – those involved in reading scripture, leading prayers, leading services and parish groups, preaching etc.
Harvest Festival Resources
The Ministry Development Committee has prepared liturgical resources to assist parishes to celebrate local harvest festivals and/or celebrate the dignity of daily work and labour.
Bible Reading Challenge 2024
Welcome to the Bible Challenge for 2024. This year you’re invited to explore 1 & 2 Peter.
Lent 2024
The Ministry Development Committee has made the following suggestions for LENT studies this year.
‘Mark on Mark’ 2024
Notes from the discussion led by the The Rev’d Dr Mark Garner on 15 January on how to listen to the Gospel of Mark (YEAR B) in Church. Now with Audio.
Come and hear one of the founders of the Communion Forest Initiative that is being embraced around the world – Rev. Dr. Rachel Mash – the Environmental Coordinator of the Anglican Churches of Southern Africa.
Communion Forest Picnic
Come along to our Communion Forest Picnic on Sunday, 15th October,2023 in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The event includes a brief tour of the Heritage trees in the gardens provided by the Friends of the Botanical Gardens.