Housing for people with enduring mental illness is in very short supply in Canberra. Many homeless people suffer from mental illness. For some years now St James has been working with a local community organisation MyHome in Canberra to build on vacant church land here in Curtin, supported housing for people with mental illness and whom are homeless, at risk of homelessness or are in unsuitable accommodation. While the church has offered use of the land, substantial funds will be needed for the construction and then the operation of such a facility. The church and MyHome have recently approached the ACT Government in the context of 2020 -21 Budget consultations seeking support . A link to our joint submission to government is provided below. It explains the need for this type of supported housing and background on the proposal.
In his reflection on the gospel reading (Luke 17:5-10) at St James’ morning service last Sunday, Simon Clarke suggested that the point of Jesus’ metaphor was not to quantify faith as much as to affirm its power.
The disciples had asked Jesus “to increase their faith”. Jesus’ response was along the lines “unleash the faith you already have”.
This three weeks course comprises interactive discussions/workshops on the topic of Justice and what it means today. Sources and thoughts from Old Testament prophets, Jesus and modern thinkers/theologians. Led by Len Baglow and Joan Palmer from South Woden Uniting Church.
At: St James Uniting Church, Curtin
Dates: Tuesdays 8th 15th, 22nd, October
Time: 7-30 to 9-30pm
Cost: $30 ($20 Concession) To cover venue, tea, coffee, handouts,
Half a Million Steps is a documentary by Uniting, the social services arm of the Uniting Church, which advocates for better access to ‘fair treatment’ for drug addiction.
This will be the second in our DEEP CHAT series of Sunday evening conversations.
We talk with Len Baglow, Policy Advocate for A Progressive Christian Voice (Australia) and member of South Woden Uniting Church about social justice and the Kingdom of God; speaking up for justice in the public square; and journeying with conservative Christians. We also hope to touch on some of Len’s own story.
There will be an opportunity for comment and questions.
All are welcome to attend.
Sunday 8 September, 6-15 to 7-30pm. 40 Gillies St, Curtin
A progressive spiritual community, standing up for justice, for refugees, the homeless and the environment. A safe space for people regardless of gender, race, orientation or ability. Located in Curtin, ACT.
