anglican focus

The news site of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland: nourishing and connecting our faith community

Parishes and Other Mission Agencies Commission

Features Kelvin Grove talking circle Features

Talking circles: 8 tips for hearing the wisdom in the room

“I first encountered a talking circle at a Quaker Sunday service in a circular room on a rainforested hill in the Brisbane suburb of Kelvin Grove. I entered the room to find people sitting in silence in a circle of chairs around a small central table…With the recent shift back to in-person gatherings, talking circles are a great way to foster dialogue, with hybrid in-person/digital options also possible. Here are eight tips to make your talking circle space suited for dialogue that matters,” says The Rev’d Tim Booth, Ministry Development Officer from the Parishes and Other Mission Agencies Commission

Features Stock image of two people tlaking in a counselling session Features

“In hindsight I wish that I had put consideration into the first professional supervisor I selected”

“As with most other practitioners and service providers that we engage, there will be times that that doctor, that electrician, that coach, that counsellor will not be the right fit. To give yourself the best shot at finding the right supervisor the first time, it may be helpful to consider the following questions,” says Wellbeing and Development Officer Rebecca McLean from the Parishes and Other Mission Agencies Commission

"Going on a planning and prayer retreat once a year for at least three days is both productive and fun" (Chris Bate, pictured with Scott Windred and David Browne)
Features

Implementing a cross-parish resource collaboration group: blessings and benefits

“When we’re all using the same lectionary readings week to week, it makes complete sense for us as peers to share the workload, the digital and print resources, and our unique gifts. We maintain the identity and needs of our own communities, while also supporting and encouraging them in their faith formation,” says The Rev’d Chris Bate from The Parish of Booval
Reflections

Collaboration: towards effective missional outcomes

From a personal perspective, I like the idea that I’m self-sufficient and smart enough to solve my own problems. Admitting I need help means being vulnerable and this can be deeply uncomfortable, especially for an introvert like me. Based on conversations I’ve had, I think parish clergy and lay leaders have similar concerns. If we admit that everything isn’t peachy, what will people think of us?” explores Dr Stephen Harrison

Reflections

What might church look like beyond…?

“Synod’s open space dialogues in 2019 served to start important conversations about the future of the Church. Within our Diocesan community, groups are continuing to use innovative approaches to dialogue, such as open space and talking circles, to explore important topics,” says Dr Stephen Harrison, as he tells us about an exciting early November open space event

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