"There are a lot of dark places in the world. And if people are going to be in those dark places, don't we want the light of Christ to be there in some way?"
It is this sense of calling to share the light of Christ that has led Rev Christine Senini to take on the challenging role of chaplain to the people of Christmas Island, home to 1,400 detained asylum seekers, 1,200 residents, and fly-in-flyout Detention Centre staff.
Of all the Christmas carols, 'Cantique de Noël' or 'O Holy Night' is perhaps one of the most loved. For me, it's the only one I really enjoy. It has a soaring melody, a mood of hopeful anticipation and an unforgettable finish.
Behind the Wayside - an achievement of community
Written by Amy Goodhew
Watching this clip could well be the best thing you will do today. Cynthia Sciberras, a Sydney photographer and Wayside Chapel volunteer, has made this short film as a gift to Wayside. The 15-minute clip gives a rare insight into life behind the scenes at Sydney's beloved Wayside and glimpse into the true meaning of unconditional love.
Graham Long, University of Queensland Press
When the Uniting Church's Rev. Graham Long tells stories, people don't just listen — they opt in for weekly reflections.
And when the Chapel needs urgent repairs to the tune of $7 million, they help find the money to keep the community asset running.
That alone indicates the strength of Long's writing and the esteem the Chapel's work is held in by his readers.
On Tuesday 8th March, the 7pm Project featured a segment asking if religion is on the decline among Australia's young people. It showed footage that we're all familiar with - ageing church congregations vs. the young atheist, both competing for the attention of a mass of young people who care, but feel that religion isn't the right fit for them.
Rev. Francis McNab was interviewed for the segment - his view is religion is no longer relevant to our times, pointing out the ten commandment instruct you not to covet your neighbours ox and that 'great chunks of the bible are fiction, poetry and so on and to take it literally is to deny our intelligence'.
