Council of Churches Offices in Subiaco
Welcome to the Annual Report of the Council of Churches of Western Australia; an association of Christian Churches dedicated to the cause of Christian Unity. This report outlines our activities in the 2011 calendar year.
We invite you to read this Annual Report to discover more about the Council of Churches of
Western Australia.
Contact details:
A:
T:
F:
E:
W:
Level 1/1 Roydhouse Street Subiaco WA 6008
(08) 9380 6122
(08) 9380 4522 executive@churcheswa.com.au www.churcheswa.com.au
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Index
Foreword 2
Introduction 4
CWA History 5
Membership 6
The Executive Council 8
What do we do? 7
Reports:
Chair of the Executive 10
Executive Officer 12
Ecumenical Ministry Officer 14
Chaplaincy Committee 16
Chaplains Reports 19
Prison Chaplain Association 22
Prison Fellowship 24
Perth Prayer 25
Australian Students
Christian Association 27
Calendar 29
Constitution 30
Attached: Audit Report
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Unity is a sacred calling
‘..that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. May they all be one, Father, may they be one in us, as you are in me and I am in you’ (John 17:20-23 NRSV)
The Council of churches of WA (CCWA) is an incorporated association of Churches who seek to be true to the sacred calling given to us by Jesus, whose prayer was that we would be one.
The Council is an expression of this desire for greater unity and cooperation. CCWA has an important role in:
 promoting ecumenical worship
 encouraging churches to pray for one another
 facilitating formal and informal conversations between people or organisations of different church traditions
 promoting joint social mission.

Encouraging churches to work together for justice and peace.
The Third World Conference on Faith and Order in Lund, Sweden in 1952 asked:
‘
Should not our churches ask themselves whether they are showing sufficient eagerness to enter into conversation with other churches, and whether they should not act together in all matters except those in which deep differences of conviction compel them to act separately?”
This question became the ecumenical movement’s “Lund Principle”
CCWA Mission:
“The Council of Churches WA gathers together in pilgrimage those Churches and Christian communities which confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the
Scriptures and who commit themselves to deepen their relationship with each other.
Thus they will express more visibly the unity willed by Christ for the Church, and work together towards the fulfilment of their mission of common witness, proclamation and service, to the glory of the one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”
The Council of Churches of WA calls on churches and Christian groups to deepen their relationships and their commitment to their common calling through dialogue, prayer, witness, service, and action in the cause of peace, justice and the preservation of the environment.
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CCWA History
Despite many denominational divisions over the centuries, there has always been a core group of Christian people who were dreaming of, praying for and working towards a greater sense of unity and co-operation among Churches.
The Council of Churches’ history began in the late 1950s, when its name was the “WA
Committee for the Australian Committee of the World Council of Churches”! Over the years the most common name was the “Western Australian Council of Churches”.
When the Roman Catholic Church joined the name was changed to the “Conference of
Churches of WA”. In 2003 the name of the organisation was changed to “The Council of
Churches of Western Australia (Inc)”.
The Council became an incorporated association in 1977. The first General Secretary was appointed in 1963. The Council has been involved with ecumenical advocacy and social justice works, for around half a century.
We offer an open invitation to other churches to consider our invitation to join with us in this ecumenical work.
A brief history of the Council of Churches Office Bearers:
2010-
2011-
* Executive Officer:
Alan Jennings, Roman Catholic
* Ecumenical Officer :
Rev Isobelle Shortreed, UCA
*Two new positions created replacing the General
Secretary Position
2009-2010
1998-2009
1992-1998
1987-1991
31/12/91)
1984-1987
1977-1983
1972-1977
1969-1972
1963-1969
March 2011-
October 2010-March 2011
March 2010-October 2010
March 2009-March 2010
March 2007-March 2009
March 2005-March 2007
General Secretaries:
Rev Chris Bedding Locum General Secretary, Anglican
Rev Eira Clapton, Anglican
Rev Wes Hartley, UCA
Dr John Neal, Anglican (Full time from 1/1/88-
Part time General Secretaries, one of whom was
Mr George Idle, UCA for a period of 6 months in l986.
Rev Roy Poole, Anglican
Rev Keith Dowding, Presbyterian/UCA
Mr Ian Allsop, Church of Christ
Rev Laurie G Staton, UCA
Presidents:
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Mr Ramzy Sawiris, Coptic Orthodox
Paul Martin, Society of Friends (Interim)
Rev Dr Charles Waddell, Roman Catholic
Paul Martin, Society of Friends
Rev Marie Wilson, UCA
Ven David Ingleson, Anglican

March 2003-March 2005
May 2001-March 2003
May 1999-April 2001
May 1998-April 1999
Ms Ivonna Dansbergs, Lutheran
Mr Graham Nielsen, UCA
Ms Anne Fox, Roman Catholic
Rev Greg Harvey, Anglican
March 1996-April 1998
January 1994-February 1996
Deacon Theodore Issa, Syrian Orthodox
Ms Wendie Wilkie, UCA
December 1992-December 1993 Sr Sonia Wagner, Roman Catholic
December 1991-November 1993 Sr Libby Rogerson, Roman Catholic
May 1990-November 1991
June 1986-February 1990
April 1984-April/May 1986
Lt Col K B Morgan, Salvation Army
Rt Rev Brian Kyme, Anglican
Mrs Leonie Liveris, Greek Orthodox
December 1982-March 1984 Rev G Blyth, UCA
December 1981-November 1982 Archdeacon Dutton, Anglican
December 1980-November 1981 Rev V Cornish, Anglican
June 1979-November 1980
April 1978-June 1979
March 1976-February 1978
Major F Linsell, Salvation Army
Laurie Wilkinson, Society of Friends
Rev Jack Wilson, Methodist/UCA
Members:
Churches willing to accept the Basis and Objects of the Council and to co-operate in fulfilling its purposes through providing financial and participative support may apply for Membership of the Council. Please see the Constitution for further details.
Member Churches in 2011:
Anglican Church
Church of Christ Wembley Downs
Coptic Orthodox Church
Ethiopian Orthodox Church
Greek Orthodox Church
Lutheran Church
Religious Society of Friends
Roman Catholic Church
Romanian Orthodox Church
Salvation Army
Syrian Orthodox Church
Uniting Church
Associates of the Council:
Associates are Churches or Christian Associations sympathetic to the Objects of the
Constitution; who are willing to participate in the work of CCWA and pay the Associate
Membership Fee.
Associate Members in 2011 :
Australian Church Women
Australian Student Christian Movement
Prison Fellowship Australia WA Council
PerthPrayer
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What we do….
The Council of Churches is an independent association incorporated in Western Australia.
The Council has collegial relationships with ecumenical councils in other states of Australia, and with the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA).
The Council has no formal structural ties with the World Council of Churches, although many of CCWA’s member churches are members of the WCC. Many of the WCC study documents, programmes and initiatives are welcomed by the Council and assist in ecumenical endeavours in WA.
The Council of Churches exists to assist our members to work together on a variety of common interests including:

Worship and praying together.

Working together especially in the areas of hospital and prison chaplaincies through the work of the Chaplaincy Committee.

Raising money for overseas aid and development through Act for Peace the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches.

Meeting with State Government agencies and civic bodies who are interested in similar areas of concern such as Restorative Justice and Prison Reform,
Sustainability, Social Justice and Refugees.
CCWA encourages and assists member churches as they:

Plan ecumenical community projects

Seek new ways of sharing buildings and ministry
The Council can provide the following resources:

Networking and communications through our website and newsletter

Seasonal studies for ecumenical groups such as Advent and Lent resources

Special day resources including Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Refugee and Migrant Sunday, Social Justice Sunday, Simply Sharing Week

Brochures and information from the National Council of Churches on a variety of topics
The Council also works in a variety of networks in Australia, in which it represents the member Churches.
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The Executive of the Council of Churches of Western Australia, Inc.
Members appointed at the 2011 AGM:
Anglican Church Rev Jennifer Goring
Rector, St Peter’s & Emmaus, Mt Hawthorn
Rev Jacob Ng
Rector of the Anglican Parish of West Perth
The Venerable Lionel Snell
Arch Deacon of Perth, St Barnabas Anglican Church
Carlisle - Rivervale
Church of Christ Wembley Downs Rev Dennis Ryle,
Minister, Ecumaniac at Large
Coptic Orthodox Church Mr Ramzy Sawiris
Ethopian Orthodox
Greek Orthodox Church
Kidane Assefa
Fr Evagrius Koutouzis
Lutheran Church
Religious Society of Friends
Vacant
Paul Martin
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Catholic Church Fr Peter Porteous
Parish Priest St Denis, Joondanna
Mr Clem Mulcahy
Principal Schools Advisor,
Catholic Education Office WA
Romanian Orthodox Church
Salvation Army
Syrian Orthodox Church
Uniting Church
Ms Cheryl Meta,
Vacant
Chaplain, Mercy Hospital
Major Arthur Green
Deacon Theodore Issa
Head Office Manager Wilson Group, Past President
Representative at WCC Assemblies 1998, 2006
Rev Marie Wilson
Minister, Kardinya Uniting Church
Ms Dorothy Carey
Resource Centre Manager, Uniting Church Office
Mr Graham Neilsen
Lund Award
Twice each year at the AGM and the General meeting there is an opportunity for the Council to present the Lund Award for ecumenical endeavour. This year Rev Don Dowling of
Wesley Uniting Church received the award for his work with one of our Associate Members,
Perth Prayer. Don has welcomed and supported this ecumenical group as they gather to offer prayers for each other and for the city each week. As well as that Rev Dowling offered the use of Wesley Uniting Church to the Commonwealth Prayer Initiative so that a 24/7 Prayer
Event could take place as a parallel event to the Commonwealth Heads of Government
Meeting.
Rev Don Dowling (l) with Mr David Sibley of Perth Prayer
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REPORTS
Chairperson’s Report
CHAIR OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
REPORT 2011
The last year has been a very busy one for members of the Executive and Ramzy Sawiris who has represented the Council so well as President. CCWA gives thanks to God that those people appointed by their churches to represent them on the Executive have brought many gifts and skills and a great deal of commitment. We continue to enjoy the hospitality of St
Peter & Emmaus Church for our monthly committee meetings and had a wonderful experience of worship and welcome with our Coptic Orthodox brothers and sisters at St Mark and St George Church when we met for the General Meeting, October 1. At this meeting, the
Revd Don Dowling was presented with a Lund Award for his work with Perth Prayer..
After much discussion, including theological reflection, CCWA has a new logo. As we move to promote the work of the Council of Churches in the context of the 21 st
century, it is imperative that we are recognizable and relevant, without losing the primary reason for existence – to preach the gospel. To this approach, our website has been remodelled, and staff continue their valuable ministries from our professional offices.
It is with sadness, but with a recognition of personal needs, that we farewelled the Revd John
Hewitson and Ben Clapton this year. Ben and wife Liesl have moved to Melbourne to follow a call to ministry with the Salvation Army and we support them in our prayers. John has been a blessing to the CCWA as his gifts are many and he was willing to share them generously. Beginning work as a Field Officer, John was to become Acting Director of
Clinical Pastoral Education at Royal Perth Hospital so that this form of education could continue in WA. John worked incredibly long hours in order to try to fill the needs of both these roles. The Executive responded pastorally to John’s situation, and the Revd Lorna
Green came to us as a Locum Field Officer until February. Due to John’s resignation, Lorna has graciously agreed to continue in this locum position until May (we thank Archbishop
Roger for his support for Lorna in this role). John has made a valuable contribution to ecumenism in the state, and an indelible mark in the work of the CCWA.
Contract negotiations have continued with the Dept for Corrective Services and Serco who pay CCWA for chaplaincy: thanks to Alan Jennings for his tenacity and control. Alan was held in our prayers when he was unwell, praise God he is well again and we thank him for his work. Geraldine continues to keep the office running smoothly and is a font of knowledge and memory that is so helpful to the Executive members. The Revd Isobelle Shortreed is developing the Ecumenical Ministry Officer role, working with many people and organisations to promote the Council of Churches and discuss the needs and vision that they have for ecumenism in WA.
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The issues that took so up much time and work by the Executive and the CCWA Chaplaincy
Committee resulting from CCWA having responsibility for Clinical Pastoral Education at
RPH have finally been overcome. After much prayer, discussion and planning and negotiations with Royal Perth Hospital staff, the Heads of Churches have been approached to negotiate with RPH regarding the Director of Pastoral Care Education.
Ready for another year, please pray for the mission and ministry of the Council of Churches in WA.
Revd Jeni Goring, Chair of Executive Committee
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On 31 st
January 2011 the Council offices relocated to Level 1, Arcadia Chambers, 1
Roydhouse Street, Subiaco, shared offices with the St John of God Board of Trustees and the
United Nations Association of Australia (WA Division) staffed by volunteers. A”Welcome to Arcadia Chambers” morning tea was hosted by the St John of God Sisters and Staff; a most gracious gesture. We have settled in well into a very pleasant, well equipped, air conditioned office providing a comfortable working environment, after a hot and uncomfortable time we previously spent in Midland. A three year lease with a three year option has been signed.
Department of Corrective Services: Meetings have been held either fortnightly or monthly throughout the year with the Departmentt for the renewal of the three year contract for the provision of Prison Chaplaincy Services, which expires 31 st
December, 2011. To ensure that the new three year contract is acceptable to all stakeholders, the current contract has been extended to 30 th June, 2012. Regular meetings will continue until this time.
Discussions have covered current and projected population (inmate) numbers, chaplaincy services levels, coordinating chaplains, denominational funding allocations, statistics/quarterly reporting, and Indigenous chaplains. Each prison or juvenile detention centre was dealt with individually looking at current and requested level of chaplaincy, depending on whether it was low, medium, remand or high security level. A request was made that work by volunteer chaplains be recognized. Chaplaincy traineeships will not be funded in the new contract. DCS still requires clarification in writing from each current
Service Provider as to whether they wish to continue to enter into direct arrangements with the Department or to contract through the Council of Churches.
Serco, Acacia Prison: A new five year contract has been signed with Serco for Chaplaincy
Services at Acacia, a privately run prison, effective 1 July, 2011. Serco has been granted a ten year contract with the Government. A meeting was held with Terry Redman Minister for
Corrective Services to discuss DCS requirements for prison chaplaincy services provided by
CCWA to ensure best practice in service delivery. During the coordinating chaplain Rev Alan
Forsyth’s long service leave, I attended half day a week at Acacia to sign off on documents, as required. Although I held a Police Clearance, I was still required to obtain further security checks through the National Criminal History Record Check and Working with Children
Check.
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Heads of Churches : An arrangement has been made with the Secretary of the Heads of
Churches for exchange of Minutes of HOC and Council of Churches Executive meetings.
Staff: All staff is employed on a part time basis .
A twelve month contract has been signed with Anglicare for the provision of Employee Assistance Services. This provides counseling for employees on a “pay-as-you-use” basis.
Geraldine Chevell (three days a week) continues in her eighth year in her role as
Bookkeeper/Administration Officer, giving excellent and committed service to the Council with a wealth of knowledge and history of the Council.
Ben Clapton Administration Assistant (1 day a week) resigned in December. He and his wife will be taking on Officer Training with the Salvation Army in Melbourne.
In last year’s Annual Report it was recorded that the General Secretary Position was split into two new part time positions, that of Operations Manager and Ecumenical Officer. At the
October 2011 General Meeting a motion was passed that the Constitution be changed to change my title from Acting General Secretary/Operations Manager to Executive Officer,
Rev’d Isobelle Shortreed (four days a week) commenced in April 2011 in the newly created position of Ecumenical Ministry Officer. Isobelle has been a great addition to the staff and ambassador for the Council of Churches, reconnecting with previous contacts and making new ecumenical connections and partnerships.
Rev’d John Hewitson, Field/Education Officer has resigned from this full-time position, finishing mid February 2012. John has been heavily involved in the CPE courses at Royal
Perth Hospital, pending the appointment of a RPH CPE Centre Director. While John has been involved with CPE Rev’d Lorna Green has been employed as the Locum Field Officer.
We wish John well in his new ministry.
Treasurer : After advertising for the vacant position and Executive members making approaches within their faith communities, Clement Mulcahy, an existing Executive member, offered to take on the position. Thanks are extended to Clem for taking on this important role.
Computers: In 2012 we will be reviewing the configuration and upgrading some of our computer software.
Accounts : Activity based costing (cost centre accounting) method is used for our various chaplaincy contracts, in our MYOB system. We continue to look after CARAD’s accounts for which we receive an administration fee.
Professional development: In 2012 an amount will be included in the budget to provide for ongoing professional development by way of seminars, registration fees, accommodation and travel, publications, etc. for Staff and Executive members.
ALAN JENNINGS
Executive Officer
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Ecumenical Minist
The role of the Ecumenical Ministry Officer is a new and innovative staff position with the
Council. The work covers a broad spectrum, including:

Promoting active and broad participation in the ecumenical movement

Supporting and resourcing networks, committees and projects of CCWA

Networking and communicating information

Relating to other bodies
My first priority on joining the Council of Churches in 2011 was to establish contacts and networks with the member churches and the community; and to begin building relationships with church and community groups.
Since March 2011 I have had the opportunity to meet with representatives or Heads of all of our member Churches, and I have also met with all of our Associate Members. Further, I have met many community leaders who are active in supporting ecumenical activities. This has involved drinking a lot of coffee!! – but these conversations have been invaluable in network building and in beginning to raise the profile of CCWA as an organisation that is an important bridge between church and society.
I travelled to Melbourne for a national meeting with ecumenical ministry officers, and was able to explore structural, administrative and funding issues of mutual importance.
Our web page www.churcheswa.com.au
was overhauled and now presents a comprehensive overview of local ecumenical activity, and an interesting selection of articles and links to places of interest. It is updated regularly so please consider making it your homepage.
A highlight for me in 2011 was attending the Peoples Forum of the Commonwealth Heads of
Government Meeting in October 2011. I met a variety of Australian and overseas delegates, and learned about human rights in undeveloped countries; governance and democracy issues; health and food security. This was particularly helpful in promoting the Christmas Bowl
Appeal later in the year, as I was able to pass on stories that I had heard from countries where
Act for Peace has projects.
Another highlight was the ecumenical service of worship to induct/commission and bless the staff of CCWA. The service was held at St Denis Catholic church in Joondanna. The
Uniting, Catholic and Anglican Churches were represented by the Moderator Rev Ron
Larkin; Monsignor Kevin Long and Bishop Kay Goldsworthy respectively. It was an
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opportunity to enjoy each other’s traditions in regard to ministry and an excellent example or ecumenism in action!
Virginia Macaspac, the Development Officer for Act for Peace, attended our General
Meeting in October and was able to provide us with excellent resources for the Christmas
Bowl Appeal. She was also able to visit a number of congregations whilst she was here, and to encourage involvement in the many activities of Act for Peace.
CCWA received a visit from Rev Shwe Lin, General Secretary of the Council of Churches of
Myanmar and Rev Jeni Goring and I were able to hear firsthand of some of their difficulties as the churches struggle with the military regime. Rev Shwe Lin presented the Council with a beautiful framed map of Myanmar set out in semi precious stones as a memento of his visit.
On the Council’s behalf, I attended both the Uniting Church and Anglican Synod meetings and made a short presentation on the work of the council and some of the changes that have taken place this year.
New and exciting partnerships have begun in the areas of social justice, restorative justice and ecumenical education, and key events for 2012 are already in planning.
For example, in July 2012 Dr Paul Murray from the University of Durham, Catholic theologian and leader of the “Receptive Ecumenism” movement will be visiting Perth as part of an Australian and New Zealand lecture tour. CCWA will be organising Dr Murray’s programme which will include public lectures and presentations.
In 2012 I hope to develop stronger links with churches in the rural sector. I am negotiating with our WA Act for Peace Representative, Virginia Macaspac to make a tour of regional centres in order to promote the Christmas Bowl Appeal more widely.
In conclusion, 2011 has been a year of preparation and groundwork which should begin to bear fruit in the coming year.
I would like to extend an invitation to visit our office in Subiaco, and to refer often to the web page which will have details of events and news in the ecumenical area.
Should you be planning an ecumenical event, or are interested in developing ecumenical relationships, I am available to attend your church council or planning committee meeting to offer you the assistance and resources of the Council.
Rev’d Isobelle Shortreed
Ecumenical Ministry Officer
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Council of Churches Chaplaincy Committee
ANNUAL REPORT 2011
FIELD OFFICER
As John Hewitson was conducting units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Royal Perth
Hospital, it was decided by the CCWA Executive that the Field Officer’s position should be back-filled, enabling him to focus on CPE.
Lorna Green agreed to act as Field Officer from October 24 th
2011 until mid February. As the
Deputy Chair of the chaplaincy Committee was on leave, Jon Reinertsen agreed to act as chair for the remaining two meetings of the year.
John Hewitson then resigned from the position of Field Officer on November 5 th
2011, employment to conclude on February 10 th
2012. John has held this position since around
October 2007, and has been innovative, energetic and enthusiastic in the role. He brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the Chaplaincy Committee and we thank him for all he has achieved, wishing him every blessing for the future.
The position of half-time Field Officer is now being advertised, with an amended job description. At the time of writing no suitable applications have been received.
Lorna will continue as Acting Field Officer until the end of May.
PRISON MINISTRY
1. Chaplaincy contract: Department of Corrective Services (Prisons)
Representatives have met at least monthly with members of DCS contracts staff to develop the new contract, which was due to commence January 2012. DCS has requested an extension of the existing contract until the end of June 2012 in order for the new contract to commence at the beginning of the financial year. Those involved in the negotiation process have included the Field Officer and Executive Officer, CCWACC; representatives of the
Prison Chaplains’ Association; and representatives of the Service Providers. Once the new contract is agreed and signed off, this or a similar group will continue to meet to oversee its implementation. DCS has demonstrated their commitment to prison chaplaincy through this exhaustive consultative process, and have been willing to patiently listen to various viewpoints.
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Not all the existing service providers were willing to use CCWA as their agency, although the
Uniting and Anglican Churches have agreed; the Catholic Church and some other small providers have opted to operate independently.
Funding
The new contract requests 100% funding of chaplaincy positions: currently it is 90%, which included 15% given by the state government to not-for-profit organizations providing services. Additional chaplaincy days have been requested for most prisons.
Training
DCS made the decision to cease funding a traineeship programme in the new contract. The reasons for this include uncertainty of employment outcomes for trainees; and that the likelihood of achieving other increased funding requests is increased once the traineeship allocation is dropped.
Gavin Douglas and Jason Abraham have effectively completed their (under-35) traineeships.
They will continue to minister in prisons with the existing funding until the end of the current contract. Both are highly thought of by the prison chaplains.
A difficulty for the employment of trainees is that most have come from churches that are not current service providers for DCS, so would be unlikely to be able to fill a position held by an
Anglican, Uniting or Catholic chaplain. Due to DCS rescinding the traineeship funding, and the resignation of the field officer, the self funded trainees have been left without a programme, which is unfortunate. Felicity Brown is currently working with Frances Hadfield at Bandyup, covering for the indigenous chaplain who is unwell. Heather Ham intends to continue her studies; Anthony Walker may continue as a volunteer at Bunbury; and John
Brennan hopes to continue as a volunteer at Acacia.
Aboriginal Chaplaincies
Robert Jetta and Samuel Dinah have commenced at Casuarina and Hakea prisons, which is great news. DCS has said that, where an Aboriginal chaplain cannot be found to fill an allocated position, a non-indigenous chaplain may be contracted on the basis that they will be replaced as soon as an indigenous chaplain is found.
2. SERCO contract - Acacia prison
The Memorandum of Understanding was finally signed in November. We have agreed to meet in 2012 to discuss an increase in chaplaincy numbers as the prison muster is expected to increase.
The Chaplaincy complement remains at 2 Full time equivalent Chaplains. Alan Forsyth continues to exercise a faithful and creative ministry in his position as Prison Coordinating
Chaplain, and is assisted by Susan Blackburn, Brett Butler and Peter Toohey. Brett will be taking some extended leave during 2012.
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Obtaining clearances for chaplains and religious visitors continues to be a time-consuming problem; this is also the case at DCS prisons, so we are working with the Justice Intelligence
Service to try and clarify the process.
HOSPITALS
1. Swan Kalamunda Health Service (SKHS)
Chaplaincy has continued in the two campuses and at Swan Mental Health Services through
Colleen McLevie’s and Bryan Grey’s ministry. Barbie Brand and Julie Nelson-White were self-funded trainees through 2011; now that the programme has ceased, Barbie wishes to continue in a voluntary capacity at Kalamunda, working under Colleen’s direction. Julie’s chaplaincy at Swan Districts has ceased.
The Field Officer has met with the Director of Nursing to discuss the chaplaincy service.
The future of chaplaincy at the hospital is uncertain, given that the new Midland Hospital will be privately run by St John of God Healthcare; Kalamunda Hospital will be independent of this process, but will be attached to another, as yet unspecified, hospital. The Field Officer will meet with management once the new contract agreement is signed, and with SJOGHC, to discuss the future of CCWA’s relationship with the hospital.
2. Glengarry Palliative Care Unit
Brian Thornber continues to provide the ministry at the unit which is affirmed and appreciated by the senior staff. (
See Chaplain’s Reports)
4. CLINICAL PASTORAL EDUCATION (CPE) Contributed by John Hewitson
College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy (CPSP)
CPSP is another international “body” (like ACPE) that accredits CPE supervisors, standards for CPE programmes and accredits Chaplains. As part of CCWA CC’s commitment to support the development of CPE in WA Raymond Lawrence, General Secretary CPSP, visited Perth and held conversations with the CCWA Executive, CCWA Chaplaincy
Committee and others invited to that meeting, two people responsible for ministerial formation, Chaplains, two CPE supervisors and some members of the RPH Pastoral Care
Department. This visit was after 18 months of exploration by CCWA executive and CCWA
CC and affirmation of CPSP as an equal service provider of clinical pastoral education in
WA.
As a consequence Chaplains within the aged care sector have expressed interest in exploring the matter of forming a chapter and two CPE supervisors will be recognized as Diplomates in
Clinical Pastoral Supervision, that is accredited CPE supervisors, in March 2012. One of the significant advantages of CPSP is that the accreditation of a programme and the centre from which that programme is offered is initially through the Supervisor, later to be confirmed through CPSP certification. This makes for more flexible delivery of high quality programmes. Our thanks to Dianne Bertolino for her work in this area.
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Royal Perth Hospital
In 2011, 26 students participated in units of CPE with 23 completing the full unit. 6 began in the summer 2011/12 unit. Due to the decision made by CCWA executive to withdraw from direct provision of CPE units in 2012 there has been a loss of confidence in the capacity to offer units in the first half of 2012 and a decision has not yet been made regarding programmes for 2012.
The appointment of a full time Director of Clinical Pastoral Education (DCPE) is a high priority. Given that the Centre Director can be accredited either through CPSP or ACPEWA it is hoped that this will increase the pool of applicants. When Fiona Stanley hospital is completed the DCPE will have offices at Fiona Stanley as part of the Clinical Educator’s sector. Basic units and specialist units will be able to be offered over two campuses RPH and
Fiona Stanley. This provides a great opportunity for a DCPE.
Regional CPE
A programme was held in Geraldton with 6 students completing the unit. CCWA executive has made the decision to no longer resource Regional programmes and the future of this initiative is uncertain.
5. Committee membership
The members of the committee have continued to contribute their expertise and knowledge in developing policies and strategies for consideration by the executive of the Council of
Churches WA and in providing a framework that has guided the work of the Field Officer and the CCWA secretariat. Robert Anderson’s membership ceased this year as he was no longer President of Spiritual Care Australia (Inc), and we thank him for his valuable contribution. Frances Hadfield’s position was taken on by Terry Quinn, prison chaplain.
Rosemary Hudson-Miller, Deputy Chair, enjoyed long service leave and we thank Marion
Millin for keeping her place warm. We thank Dianne Bertolino, Jon Reinertsen, John Ryan,
Peter Power and David Shelton for their continued service.
We thank Alan Jennings (Executive Officer), Geraldine Chevell (Finance) and Ben Clapton
(Administration) for their assistance during this year. Ben has now left to train as a Salvation
Army Officer in Melbourne, and we wish him every blessing.
Rev’d Lorna Green
Chair, CCWA Chaplaincy Committee
Working in a Palliative Care Ward – Revd Brian Thornber.
I work two days per week in the Glengarry Private Hospital situated in Duncraig. My focus is the 10 bed Palliative Care Ward called Sandalwood but I also visit in the General Ward called Acacia.
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Palliative Care refers to “ specialised care and support provided for someone living with a terminal illness”. Importantly palliative care also involves care and support for family and caregivers. Sandalwood Palliative Care Ward therefore includes a lounge room and kitchen space where families and friends can relax and have something to eat and drink. This is essential in exercising hospitality to people who are usually going through a very difficult time. Often when the patient becomes too ill to communicate with the pastoral care focus and support may turn more towards the family. It has been a great honour to get close to families in a short period of time. When appropriate I have raised the question of a final blessing for the loved one or the offer to contact a Priest or Pastor of their denomination.
Occasionally families ask me to conduct the funeral of their loved one, and this provides an opportunity to follow through with the pastoral support started in the hospital.
The Glengarry Hospital has a Bereavement Program that I as Chaplain participate in. I am involved in helping to make follow up phone calls to nominated family members six weeks after the death of their loved ones. These contacts provide opportunities to re connect with families and to be aware of how they are coping. The essence of the phone conversation is recorded in the Bereavement File. Information on follow up counselling services through the
WA Cancer Council can be made available to families where appropriate. The phone calls also provide me with the opportunity to inform the family members of the Glengarry
Hospital’s
Memorial Service which they will receive an invitation to. At this service the names of the deceased are read out and a candle lit in their memory. This Memorial Service is held twice a year at a nearby school and provides the opportunity for families to participate in a short memorial service and to re connect with the nursing staff who cared for their loved ones. At the conclusion of the service families are invited to stay behind for a supper and to renew relationships with nursing and pastoral care staff.
Working in a Palliative Care Ward is very much being part of a team which includes doctors, nurses, social worker and volunteers. It is a ministry which has been a great privilege to share in.
Revd Brian Thornber
Acacia Chaplaincy Department - Rev’d Alan Forsyth
2011 has been another busy year for Acacia chaplaincy. Here are a few of the main things that have happened….
Anniversary . On February 1st Alan had been chaplain in Acacia for 10 years. Three parttime chaplains joined him after he’d been there 11 months.
Training . Susan and Alan joined forces during the year to provide some of the training for two embryo chaplains, Des Lawson and John Brennan.
“Sycamore Tree Project” (STP).
Three projects of STP were run in Acacia this year. STP is a model of restorative justice in which groups of offenders meet and work with groups of
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victims of unrelated crimes. This remarkable programme is potentially life-changing for victims as well as offenders. The first four STPs in Australia took place in Acacia. We have now run 16 such projects and are currently preparing for the 17th.
“Kairos”.
Another highlight of 2011 was “Kairos”. This 4-day programme involved 18 prisoners, 20 visitors and 2 chaplains. We were asked to “target” leaders in the residential blocks, especially those who were considered to be trouble-makers. The aim of the programme was to provide these men with the experience of Christian love, without applying any pressure at all. It was the second time we have run “Kairos” in Acacia, and these are the only two occasions it’s been tried in WA.
Programmes . One notable feature of chaplaincy in Acacia is the large number of bible studies, programmes and special courses, in addition to STP and “Kairos”. In a typical week, the chapel schedule will include at least two programme sessions and either two or three bible study groups.
LSL.
During 2011 Alan took two months of long-service leave to work on the final draft of his PhD thesis. He hopes to submit during the first half of 2012. Mr. Gavin Douglas, Alan
Jennings, Susan Blackburn and John Hewitson filled in for Alan during his absence. Gavin remained on the Acacia chaplaincy staff until the end of the year.
CPE.
Susan is nearing the end of her theology degree with Murdoch University. As part of her degree, she undertook Clinical and Pastoral Education course in 2011. John Hewitson was the supervisor of this programme, whilst Alan co-ordinated her field placement.
Toll Group . Pastor Ken Maley, who is industrial chaplain and field officer of the Toll Group, visited us on November 15th. The Toll Group arranges support, including pre-employment sessions and employment, for former-prisoners in the critical twelve months following their release from prison.
Ministry among prisoners . Acacia prisoners are an incredibly vulnerable group of people.
We chaplains do our best to provide an ongoing one-to-one ministry with people in need. In addition, we attempt to create and maintain a loving, forgiving community that will offer acceptance to these men.
“Family ministry”.
One aspect of our ministry that is seldom noted is the work that we do off-site. Susan, Peter, Brett and Alan all worked with families of prisoners and/or staff. Some of this ministry is by telephone. More of it is in hospital ministry or in people’s homes. As well as this, from time to time Acacia families request chaplains to take funerals, memorial services, baptisms or weddings.
Rev’d Alan Forsyth
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Prison Chaplain Association Report 2011
There are forty-six prison chaplains (including trainee chaplains) who have worked to support the dignity, faith and self esteem of almost 5 000 detainees in prisons from Broome in the north to Albany in the south in sixteen different custodial facilities. These facilities contain men, women, girls and boys who because of poor choices (often resulting from family and cultural deprivation) are rejected by our community and have become the most marginalised in society. These chaplains form the Prison Chaplains’ Association (PCA). This report must first of all compliment them on their perseverance, hope and commitment.
The PCA has met four times during 2011: 17 February at Bandyup Women’s Prison; 26 May at Wooroloo Prison; 25 August at Rangeview Juvenile Detention Centre and 24 November at
Casuarina Prison. The most important element of these meetings is the opportunity that chaplains have to support each other in their vocation and exchange ideas. It is also an occasion for The Department of Corrective Services to acknowledge chaplaincy. Mr Ian
Giles (deputy commissioner) or Mr Tim Connolly were present at each meeting to update the chaplains on departmental policy issues and to answer chaplains’ queries.
The Wooroloo meeting was arduous for the Bunbury chaplains to attend. It has been decided that all future meetings would be held at Casuarina Prison, Karnet Prison and once a year at
Bunbury Prison.
The first formal occasion for the PCA was a service at Trinity Uniting Church at Kalamunda, at which Heather Blackburn, a chaplain at Acacia Prison, presided. After the service, the chaplains retired to the local hotel to enjoy lunch.
In recent years the PCA has hosted a biennial conference for Prison Chaplains. This year it was conducted at St John of God’s Retreat Centre at Safety Bay on 16-18 March. The theme of the conference was the special needs of aboriginal prisoners. The key note speaker and theme co-ordinator was Mr Jim Morrison from the Department of Corrective Services. He was assisted by Mr Ian Robinson and elder Marie Taylor. Mr Terry West from Crossroads
Bible Institute explained to the chaplains the Bible correspondence course. All the chaplains were inspired and appreciated a better understanding of the needs of aboriginal prisoners.
In late August, Fr David Shelton and myself attended the International Catholic Prison
Pastoral Care Conference at Yaounde in Cameroon. The highlight of the conference was the input from chaplains around the world. The problems of overcrowding, recidivism and long remand periods were fairly common. A highlight was the keynote address by Cardinal Peter
Turkson. He explored the need for chaplains to be aware of the psychological and social pressures that cause people to be incarcerated as well as the need for chaplains to be Christ like in their approach to prisoners. The liturgies were a real African experience with African music and dancing integrated into the Liturgy. The visit to the Yaounde prison was an unforgetable experience. The entire prison would fit into a small football oval, yet it housed some 3 800 prisoners. Apart from liquid gruel, the families and friends of prisoners are expected to bring food for the prisoners. Some prisoners run their own canteens to sell food to others. The smell from open latrines was nauseating. In the evening of our visit we were
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hosted to a grand meal and show in the luxury Hilton Hotel: an embarrassing contrast to what we had experienced that day.
On 9 December at St Mary’s Cathedral an interfaith Service was held. The idea of the service is to acknowledge the work of prison officers, counselors, administration, metropolitan and youth justice officers and all who work with the Department of Corrective Services. The title of the service is Answering The Call. All those who attended were full of praise for the concept and hope that this will be a regular annual event. The Services in 2010 and 2011 were organised by an individual chaplain and the Department’s event co-ordinator. Future services would be run by a committee comprised of the Events’ Co-ordinator and representatives of the PCA.
A Chaplains’ Working Committee has been formed to develop and oversee a new contract between the Department, Service Providers and chaplaincy. This committee is formed by representatives of CCWA (Rev Lorna Green, Rev John Hewitson and Mr Alan Jennings), representatives of the Department (under the chair of Ms Donna Herdsman), representatives of Prisons and Juvenile Detention Centres and representatives of the PCA (David Shelton,
Graham Wright, Susette Monk and John McCarthy). The committee has painstakingly reviewed and renewed all aspects of the previous contract, which on completion will be presented to the Department and Service Providers for their endorsement.
The current contract encourages and provides for young people and aborigines to be trained as prison chaplains. During the last two years a large number of people applied for and were accepted into this chaplaincy training programme. Unfortunately, there are a limited number of chaplaincy positions to be filled and the finance for the training came under pressure. As a result, this worthwhile project had to be curtailed. The chaplains who co-operated and supported this programme are to be congratulated.
This report would be incomplete without acknowledging the special endeavours of John
Hewitson, as the Field Officer for the CCWA Chaplaincy Committee. Even though many chaplains may have disagreed with some of his ideas and decisions, all were impressed with his work effort and commitment for prison chaplaincy.
In conclusion special thanks to all WA prison chaplains for their hard work and support for each other. I would like to thank particularly the secretary of the PCA Frances Hadfield, the deputy chair person, Graham Wright and those who undertook special roles: Susette Monk,
Dave Shelton and Terry Quinn.
PCA Retiring Chairperson
John McCarthy
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Associate Member’s Report
Over the past year Prison Fellowship has gone from strength to strength through the support of its various partners, organizations, churches and also the correctional services.
Our weekly visits have continued to impact lives through the trust that has been established between the volunteers and inmates as we continue to pursue the “Great Commission” by making disciples and bringing the gospel to all corners of the earth. We believe that this year we are called to continue this work while also equipping believers within the prisons so they can equip others.
The Sycamore Tree Project has proved to be truly transformational and the testimonies we have received from this encourage us to persevere even in adversity. This project is one of the programs within Prison Fellowship that we believe is making a real difference in the world, by opening the eyes of offenders to the impact and consequences of their actions on the lives of others. We have seen demand for this program increase and are looking forward to seeing it expand even further in 2012 and beyond.
Through Angel Tree, arguably one of our most successful programs, we were able to reach over 4,300 children primarily due to the support from churches. The impact of this ministry in addition to programs such as Camp Breakaway is truly being felt within the community. In
2012, our desire is to expand these to reach even more of the youth and make a real difference in the lives of families and children.
We appreciate your continued support as we press forward and continue to step out in faith and expand the work that God has entrusted us with.
Yours in Christ,
David Shaw
Chairman, Prison Fellowship – WA
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Associate Member’s Report – Perth Prayer
In June of 2009 several businessmen and women, pastors and local church leaders representing a broad spectrum of Christian denominations began to meet together in the centre of the city for one day a week to pray. Since that time the group has grown slowly to more than 100 people participating with weekly attendance averaging between 30 and 60.
This ecumenical Christian gathering is patterned after the
New York City revival of 1858 started by Jeremiah
Lanphier and is characterized by:

Focus on personal testimony and prayer

Christian and Multi-Denominational

Spontaneity and Promptness.

Commitment to Christian Love, Unity and
Humility
All are invited to join in the weekly lunch time meetings currently held in the Wesley Church.
In 2011 Perth Prayer continues to promote Christian
Leaders working together in the city with active participation in Market Place Connect Ministries , Eagle
City Missions, Manna Inc., City Bible Forum ( www.citybibleforum.com
) and The Shed
( www.shednight.com
).
Perth Prayer was blessed with many evidences of God at Work including the significant growth and a growing commitment of Christians working in the city to prayer and fellowship together. Every week the Christian gathering has featured the personal testimonies from one of those regularly attending or an invited guest. On a number of occasions new people have come to visit and become Christians in response to the message of hope, also there have been amazing answers to prayer including several miracles.
Although the testimonies are mostly from the local Perth community a few international speakers have blessed us and the church was filled. A brief overview of a few of these 2011
Special Events includes:

On March 9, 2011 David Hodgson, CEO of Paladin Corporation

On In June, 2011, Dr. Philip Lynn, Medical Doctor and Pastor of Skyline
Church in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

On September 14, 2011 Peter Pollock, world famous cricket player and
Christian Evangelist
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
On September 28, 2011 Frengky Utana and the miraculous healing of Craig
Ablett’s heart problem after prayer

Presentation of the Lund Award to
Reverend Don Dowling of Wesley Uniting
Church by the Western Australia Council of Churches.

Lana Heightly (Women with a Mission) and Shirani Wikramanayake ( Sri Lankan
Pastor) shared their testimonies at Perth
Prayer for the climax of CHOGM week on
October 26, 2011.
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Associate Member’s Report
A national ecumenical fellowship of students and ex-students (Senior Friends)seeking to commit to Jesus Christ and his Gospel and to live out this gospel in prayer, study (especially of the Bible)and working for commitment to others through social justice action.
Prayer support group for WA Development Officer Kate Watts
L – R: Bronwyn Crowe, Barrie Baker, Jenny Edwards, Kate Watts
ASCM in Western Australia can look back in 2011 with some satisfaction. We are a fellowship of students of all ages who are drawn together by the above aims who provide fellowship, support and challenge in our pilgrimage to deeper faith in God through the Lord
Jesus Christ.
Early in 2011 Kate Watts and Barrie Baker flew to Brisbane for the January National
Executive Meeting held in St Francis College. Both played a major part in the re-focussing of the national movement.
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The same two endured the extreme heat and cacophony of O-Day at UWA on return to recruit new members from enrolling students there.
Bronwyn Crowe and Barrie Baker were involved in the recruitment of the new National
Coordinator Ann Ng, a person with wide experience in the SCM in Singapore.
The National Executive Meeting had selected WA to host the 2011 National Conference and to host the following July General Committee Meeting. The Revd Neville Watson kindly made his farm ‘Galilee’ available for our use and we held a very successful conference on the topic “ The Revolution of the Small”.
Many thanks are due to Clare Menck who largely arranged the programme.
The WA group has had Bible Book Club meetings, and less formal get togethers throughout the year. These are held in the homes of members and usually involve a shared meal.
In addition, as in the above photo, four of us have met regularly in the Dome Coffee Shop,
Maylands, to pray for Kate and many other aspects of the Movement and wider community.
The Movement in WA involves some 13 people actively and has many more supporting us in the background
Barrie Baker
Chair, Area Council WA
36

Calendar 2012
March 17 th
Annual General Meeting
March 21 st
Harmony Day
March 31 st
Passion Play, Supreme Court Gardens
April
April
May
May
6 th Good Friday
8 th
Easter Sunday
26 th
Sorry Day
27 th Pentecost and Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins
May
June
July
August
30 th
Labyrinth Event, Wesley Uniting Church
10 th
Heart Foundation Memorial Service
St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Subiaco
13 th
Dr Paul Murray arrives in Perth for Lecture Series
19 th
First Camino Salvado Pilgrimage begins
26 th
Refugee and Migrant Sunday August
September 2 nd
Second Camino Salvado Pilgrimage begins
September 21 st
International Day of Peace
October CCWA General Meeting (date to be confirmed)
36

CONSTITUTION OF THE
COUNCIL OF CHURCHES OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA INC
Adopted as revised by the General Meeting of the Conference of Churches of Western
Australia, 17 th
November 2001. Further amended on 21 st
January 2003, under direction from the Ministry of Fair Trading, in order to comply with the Act. This affected the wording of section 24 only.
The name of the organisation was changed to the Council of Churches of Western Australian
(Inc) at the Annual General Meeting of April 2003.
Further amendment was made on 21 st
October 2007 to change the objects by the insertion of clause 5K.
Amended by the Annual General Meeting of 28 th March 2009 to revise clause 6 and 17 in particular and remove the appendix one.
Amended by the General Meeting on 1 st
October 2011 that the wording General Secretary be replaced by Executive Officer in Clauses 6, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 22.
All former drafts of the Constitution are superseded by this document.
1.
NAME
The name of the organization shall be The Council of Churches of Western Australia Inc
(CCWA Inc).
2.
DESCRIPTION
The Council of Churches of Western Australia Inc is an Association of Christian
Churches or related Christian bodies, which exists to promote a closer unity among
Christians in Western Australia, according to the commitments, purposes and objects of the Constitution.
3.
BASIS
The Council is based on the acknowledgement of the Lord Jesus Christ as God and
Saviour as witnessed to by the scriptures and in the life of the Church, and on the readiness of the Churches to fulfil together their common calling to the glory of the one
God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
4.
COMMITMENTS
We commit ourselves to: a The unity of the Church b Sharing the faith of Christ together c Worshipping together
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d Engaging in dialogue and discussion with each other e Praying together f Respecting one another's Church doctrines, disciplines and traditions g Recognising the multicultural and multi-ethnic nature of Christian communities in
Australia h Being an ecumenical Christian voice in WA.
5.
PURPOSES AND OBJECTS a To discover and celebrate in prayer and worship the unity the Member Churches have in Christ that the world might believe. b To enrich all Member Churches through the sharing of faith, hope and love, and in this way to lead to a deeper commitment by all to Christ and His Kingdom. c To foster in the Member Churches a vision of Christian unity. d To provide a forum for discussing the concerns of Member Churches. e To establish and maintain relationships with other ecumenical agencies in Australia and overseas. f To assist communication among Member Churches. g To facilitate common action or collaboration by the Churches in witness and service. h To be the servant of and responsible prophet to the Churches. i To call the Churches to prayer for the unity Christ wills by the means that He wills. j To engage in appropriate welfare or charitable activities for those in need. k to provide ecumenical chaplaincy services in hospitals, prisons and other institutions as appropriate .
6.
MEMBERS a The Executive Officer shall keep and maintain a Register of Member Churches,
Member Congregations, Associates and Friends, in which shall be entered the full name, address and date of entry of each Member Church, Member Congregation,
Associate Member and Friend. The Register shall be available for inspection and copying by Member Churches, Member Congregations, Associate Members and
Friends upon request. b Churches willing to accept the Basis and Purposes and Objects of the Council and to co-operate in fulfilling its purposes through providing financial and participative support may apply for Membership of the Council as Member Churches. . c Single congregations of Churches consisting of many congregations, which members are eligible to be Member Churches but are not Member Churches, may apply for membership as Member Congregations. d Churches or Congregations which do not have credal statements within their traditions and therefore finds it difficult to subscribe formally to what appears to it to be a written credal statement in the Basis may apply for and be elected to membership provided that the church or Christian community demonstrates by its life and conduct that it upholds the spirit of the Basis. e Churches may be elected to Membership of the Council on the affirmative vote of three-fourths of those attending at any meeting of the Council , PROVIDED THAT the application has been considered by the Executive, and application and report given to each Member Church at least two calendar months before the Council votes on the application for membership. f A Member Church or Member Congregation shall cease to be a Member of the
Council upon its Head or other proper officer of the Church giving notice to the
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Council of its resignation from the Council; or upon the General Meeting resolving, pursuant to a recommendation of the Executive made after consultation with the
Heads of other Member Churches, and proper officers of other Member Churches and
Member Congregations to terminate the relationship with that Member Church or
Member Congregation. . g Upon a Member Church or Member Congregation ceasing to relate to other Member
Churches and Member Congregations through the Council the Executive Officer shall make in the Registry an entry recording the date upon which the Member Church or
Member Congregation ceased to so relate. Twelve calendar months after notification of such entry into the register, it will be deemed that the membership of the Member
Church or Member Congregation has lapsed.
7.
ASSOCIATES
Associates of the Council shall be:
Churches which are not yet admitted, or do not wish to be admitted, to Membership but which nevertheless support the Purposes and Objects, and are willing to participate in the work of CCWA, and pay the Associate Membership Fee
Christian Associations sympathetic to the Purposes and Objects of the Constitution, willing to participate in the work of CCWA, and pay the Associate Membership Fee.
8.
FRIENDS
Friends of the Council shall be individuals, Churches or Associations who wish to provide support by other means to the Council, and who pay the appropriate level Fee.
9.
VOTING RIGHTS
Membership shall entitle Churches to vote on all matters brought before the Council.
Associates and Friends of the Council may not vote at any meeting of the Council.
10. EXTENT OF AUTHORITY a The Council shall provide opportunity for discussion, decision and joint action on behalf of the Member Churches. Any issue may be brought to the attention of the
Council by one or more of the Member Churches or from within the Council itself. b Member Churches may authorise the Council of Churches to make public statements on their behalf. c All such statements must receive the prior approval of the individual Head of each
Member Church. d Where a majority of Member Churches agrees but unanimity is not reached, the names of member Churches supporting the statement shall be attached to the statement. e The President and/or the Executive Officer, or a person authorised by them in relation to particular issues, shall have authority to make public statements on already agreed policy of the Executive and as authorised by the Heads of Member Churches.
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11. FUNCTIONS AND POWERS
The functions and powers of the Council shall include the following: a To establish commissions and committees as may be necessary to fulfil the Purposes and objects. All such commission and committees shall be responsible to the Council. b To call conferences on specific subjects as occasion may require. c To make provision for, procure, enlarge or develop suitable headquarters or other centres for the work of the Council. d To acquire for any of the purposes and objects of the Council by purchase, lease, hire, gift or otherwise, or to dispose of by way of sale, exchange, gift, lease, hire, or in any other manner such land, buildings or furnishings as the Council may deem necessary, and to do all acts in relation thereto as may from time to time be required, including - i.
the hire, or employment and payment of all persons necessary for the maintenance, extension or prosecution of the activities of the Council. ii.
the selling of any property real or personal held by the Council , and iii.
the borrowing or raising and giving security for money by the issue of bonds, debentures, debenture stock, mortgage or charge, either unsecured or secured, upon all or any part of the property of the Council . e To administer all sums of money subscribed or given by any person or organization for the support, maintenance or benefit of the Council whether by the operation of any trust devise the same subject to any special provisions attached thereto and to appeal for, collect, and receive moneys in furtherance of the purposes herein before referred to and to administer, control and disburse the same. f To promote and further in all possible ways the purposes and objects herein before set out.
Any of the functions and powers above may, by resolution of the Council, be delegated to the Executive Committee.
12. FINANCIAL YEAR
The financial year shall be from 1 st
January up to and including 31 st
December each year.
13. COUNCIL GENERAL MEETINGS
The Council shall meet at least twice in each calendar year. The first meeting in each year shall be the Annual Meeting.
14. COMPOSITION OF COUNCIL MEETINGS
The Membership of Council meetings shall consist of: a The Heads of Member Churches, who shall be Vice-Presidents of the Council. b Up to 10 other delegates from each Member Church. c Up to 3 delegates from each Member Congregation. d The President, Executive Officer and the Treasurer of the Council. e Alternates, appointed by Member Churches and Member Congregations in place of delegates unable to attend a meeting or any part of a meeting. Alternates shall have the same rights as the delegates they replace.
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15. OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL
The Officers shall be: consists generally to be a support to the role of the Executive Officer, and to be a signatory to various official documents and contracts. b The Vice-Presidents, who are the heads of the Member Churches for the time being.
The role of the Vice-Presidents is to arrange for nominations from their Churches to the Council Executive, to participate in any discussions or debates as they see fit, and to promote the work of the Council among their Churches. c The Executive Officer, appointed by the Council on terms decided on recommendation from the Executive. The role of the Executive Officer is described in the Policy and Procedures Manual adopted from time to time by the Executive. d The Treasurer, who shall be elected by but not necessarily from the Delegates at each
Annual Meeting, who is to hold office until the close of the succeeding Annual
Meeting. The role of the Treasurer is described in the Policy and Procedures Manual adopted from time to time by the Executive. a The President, who shall be nominated by and from the Delegates at each Annual
Meeting or by formal written Member Church nomination and shall be elected annually by the Delegates at each Annual Meeting, or by formal written Member
Church nomination, who is to hold office until the close of the succeeding Annual
Meeting. The President shall not hold office for more than two successive years. The role of the President shall be as described in the Policy and Procedures Manual, and
16. REMOVAL OF OFFICERS a The President and the Treasurer may be removed from office only by the following procedures: i.
The carrying of a vote of no confidence motion against the Officer by a twothirds vote of the Executive. ii.
This must be followed by the calling of an extraordinary General Meeting, with
21 days’ notice of the motion to be put to the meeting to remove the office bearer from office. b The Executive Officer, being a salaried officer, may only be removed from office by the procedures outlined in the Policy and Procedures Manual, in accordance with current state and federal legislation.
17.
EXECUTIVE a The Council shall elect an Executive of the Council to serve with the President,
Executive Officer and Treasurer. All Member Churches and Member Congregations of the Council shall be eligible to be represented on the Executive. b The Anglican Church, the Roman Catholic Church and the Uniting Church shall each be eligible to appoint three representatives and other Member Churches shall each be eligible to appoint one representative as the official representatives of the Member
Churches. Member Congregations collectively shall be eligible to appoint one representative chosen by consensus or election between them, failing which the
Executive will appoint the representative. c The Executive shall carry out the decisions of the Council, shall prepare the business for Council meetings, and shall act on behalf of the Council between Council meetings.
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d The Executive shall meet at least six times in each calendar year. e The Executive is empowered to determine the cessation of the Membership of any church or association in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 6 (f) and (g). f The Executive shall appoint its own Chairperson. g Further information on the role and responsibilities of the Executive can be found in the Policy and Procedures Manual adopted from time to time by the Executive.
18. QUORUM
The quorum for the Council shall be fifteen representatives from at least four Member
Churches. The quorum for the Executive shall be six representatives from at least three
Member Churches.
19. AUDITOR
The auditor(s) shall be appointed at each Annual Meeting, and shall hold office until the close of the succeeding Annual Meeting. The role of the auditor is described in the Policy and Procedures Manual adopted from time to time by the Executive.
20. ACCOUNTABILITY
The Council shall report annually to its Member Churches and Member Congregations and shall submit with its report an audited financial statement.
21. AMENDMENTS
Amendments to this Constitution may be made at a General Meeting or at a Special
Meeting convened for the purpose, PROVIDED THAT: a The proposed amendments have been notified to each Member Church and to each delegate to the Council at least two calendar months before they are considered by the
Council . b The proposed amendments are approved by three-fourths of the delegates present and voting at the meeting. c Amendments (including further amendments) to clauses 3 (Basis), 5 (Purposes and
Objects), 6 (Members) and 21 (Amendments) have been approved by all Member
Churches. d Amendments to other clauses may be further amended by a three-fourths majority of those present and voting at the meeting. e Any amendment to the Basis, Purposes and Objects, and Powers of the Council shall be subject to any ministerial approvals required under the Associations Incorporation
Act, 1895.
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22. COMMON SEAL
The Common Seal shall remain in the custody of the Executive Officer and shall not be affixed to any document except by the authority of the Council or its Executive previously given and except in the presence of and countersigned by any two of the following Officers of the Council , namely the President, The Executive Officer and the
Treasurer.
23. INCOME AND PROPERTY
The income and property of the Council shall be applied solely to the promotion of its
Purposes and Objects and no part thereof shall be paid or transferred directly or indirectly by way of divided bonus or otherwise by way of pecuniary profit to the Members provided that remuneration may be paid in good faith to officers and servants of the
Council or other persons in return for services actually rendered to the Council.
24. DISSOLUTION
1. If upon winding up or dissolution of the association there remains after satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities any property whatsoever, the same shall not be paid to or distributed among the members but shall be given or transferred: a.
to another association incorporated under the Act; or b.
for charitable purposes which incorporated association or purposes, as the case requires shall be determined by the resolution of the members when authorising and directing the Committee under section 33 (3) of the Act to prepare a distribution plan of the surplus property of the association.
2. In the event of the winding up or dissolution of the association, the Commissioner of
Taxation shall be advised of the date of dissolution within 30 days of the dissolution.
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