Assembly Guide 2014
Transcription
Assembly Guide 2014
Assembly Guide 2014 for the Annual General Meeting Saturday 29 March 2014 (146th Annual Assembly) Dr Alan Rice Chairman of Assembly Council FINAL VERSION Rev Ken Clendinning Director of Ministries Regular electronic offerings to support your Church’s ministry A Ministry Service of Baptist Financial Services iGive Secu re Online Offerings Supporting your Church The benefits of iGive to your Church are many, including: • encouraging the practice of good stewardship, even when you are away from the church • assisting your church with regular cash flow • reducing administration and without cost Flexibility and Freedom Make your offerings from of a range of account options at no cost to your church: • credit cards – VISA or MasterCard • direct debit requests Your offering is completely confidential Easy to Set-up Set-up your iGive offering online today at www.bfs.org.au/personal/igive P: 1300 650 542 | F: 1300 784 699 | E: [email protected] | W: www.bfs.org.au iGive is a service of Baptist Financial Services Australia Limited (BFS) ABN 56 002 861 789 AFSL 311 062 for participating churches to receive offerings from individual givers. A delegated body of the Australian Baptist Ministries. CONTENTS Annual Assembly Agenda.......................................................................................................................................... 2 Guidelines for Conduct of Assembly Meetings......................................................................................... 3 Draft Vision and Strategic Plan............................................................................................................................. 3 Candidate Profiles for Election Assembly Council..................................................................................................................................................... 5 Morling College Council.................................................................................................................................... 11 Morling College Faculty..................................................................................................................................... 17 Baptist Churches of NSW Property Trust............................................................................................ 21 Annual Reports................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Baptist Association Reports Assembly Council.............................................................................................................................................. 26 Standing Committees of Assembly Council Committee for the Ministry................................................................................................................... 33 Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee............................................................... 36 Nominations Committee......................................................................................................................... 40 Director of Ministries...................................................................................................................................... 41 Global Interaction NSW & ACT ............................................................................................................... 46 Morling College Council............................................................................................................................... 48 Principal of Morling College...................................................................................................................... 55 Affiliated Groups Australian Baptist Ministries ................................................................................................................... 56 BaptistCare NSW & ACT............................................................................................................................... 57 Baptist Churches of NSW Property Trust........................................................................................ 63 Baptist Financial Services Australia Limited............................................................................... 66 Baptist Foundation of NSW Limited.................................................................................................... 70 Baptist Insurance Management Limited......................................................................................... 71 Bedford College Limited............................................................................................................................... 72 HopeStreet............................................................................................................................................................... 74 2014 Church Partnership Support Budget.................................................................................................. 77 Notices of Motion............................................................................................................................................................ 78 Extracts from Constitution of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT Relating to Motions..... 80 Financial Statements 2012/2013........................................................................................................................ 82 –1– ANNUAL ASSEMBLY AGENDA SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2014 PARRAMATTA BAPTIST CHURCH Registration from 8:30am 8.30am Registration opens (coffee & tea available) 9.30am Worship and Prayer 10.00am Presentation of Association Strategic Plan 10.45am Morning Tea 11.15am Groups – ‘How might such a vision impact your local church?’ 12.00pm Group reporting 12.30pmLunch 1.15pm VOTING CLOSES FOR • Assembly Council members (p5) • Morling College Council members (p11) • Morling College Faculty (p17) • Baptist Churches of NSW Property Trust members (p21) 1.15pm • Recommendation of Association Strategic Plan (p3) • Reports and recommendations (p25) • 2014 Church Partnership Support Budget (p77) • N otices of Motion (p78) from Pastor Mark Hall, Lake Cargelligo Baptist Church • Announcement of Election results • Q & A 3.00pmClose –2– GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCT OF ASSEMBLY MEETINGS Please refer to Schedule B of the Association’s Constitution adopted on 31 March 2012 for ‘Guidelines for the Conduct of Assembly Meetings’. The Constitution is on the Baptist website, under Support & Development (Log in) > Baptist Association > Structure > Baptist Churches Constitution Final 31-3-2012. Additional guidelines relating to presentation of reports to Annual Assemblies are contained at Paragraph S. of Schedule B of the Constitution. PRESENTATION OF ASSOCIATION OF BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW & ACT DRAFT VISION & STRATEGIC PLAN DRAFT COPY Vision Pictures AND 2014-2016 Strategic Plan The Draft Vision and Strategic Plan will be made available to pastors and churches separately. An opportunity will be given to provide feedback, with any comments to be submitted to the Baptist Ministry Centre by Friday 21 March 2014. Prepared & presented 10 December 2013 It is proposed that adjustments to the draft documents will be made prior to the Assembly in light of the feedback received to enable an updated version of the documents to be tabled on the day of the Assembly. It is recommended that the Assembly approve the Vision and Strategic Plan for 2014-2016 to give effect to the Ministries of the Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT and the Director of Ministries proceed to communicate, implement and promote the plan. Rev. Ken Clendinning Director of Ministries –3– by Ken Clendinning Director of Ministries / neh’-os /, adj. new, fresh NEOS PASTORS, CHAPLAINS & SPOUSES CONFERENCE AT WOLLONGONG BAPTIST CHURCH Put on your NEW nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Colossians 3:10 REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT www.neos.nswactbaptists.org.au –4– Nominations for Assembly Council membership and profiles of candidates for election Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT –5– ASSEMBLY COUNCIL The Constitution of the Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT describes how affiliated local Baptist churches and affiliated groups work together to fulfil the objects of the Association. Management and control of ministries of the Association is vested with Assembly, which appoints the Assembly Council. The Assembly Council is the council appointed under section 10 of the Constitution as the Executive Committee under the Incorporation Act and it is empowered to implement Assembly decisions and to conduct the Association’s affairs between Assemblies. The 12-member Assembly Council comprises:• 9 persons elected by Assembly • the Chair of Morling College Council/Morling College Ltd • 2 persons co-opted by Assembly Council at its discretion. Section 34.4 of the Constitution provides that at the first meeting of Assembly Council and following the appointment of the members under the Constitution at the March 2013 Assembly, members will be given the opportunity to volunteer for re-appointment for either a 1, 2 or 3 year term with the intent that one-third of the members serve a 1-year term, one-third 2 years and the remainder 3 years. There are therefore three (3) vacancies to be filled at the 29 March 2014 Assembly for Assembly Council, as one-third of the members have completed their 1-year term. Those members retiring are eligible for re-nomination, subject to their consent. The three Assembly Council members retiring who have served their 1-year term are: • Dr Jennifer Allen • Rev Robert Ellis • Rev Karina Kreminski Section 10 of the Constitution describes the role, membership, power and duties of the Assembly Council (refer Baptist website). Given the responsibilities of the Assembly Council with respect to the objects, powers, duties and obligations of the Baptist Union Incorporation Act, churches should prayerfully consider their voting selection after reviewing the following profiles. Asterisks on the following page denote the members of the Assembly Council who have identified they are willing to be considered for re-election. Council membership should desirably be a blend of pastoral and lay people who will work together drawing on strengths and experience in governance, financial understanding and management capacity, as well as a working knowledge of Baptist ministries. –6– ASSEMBLY COUNCIL NOMINATIONS FOR ASSEMBLY COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP (N.B. 3 to be elected from the 3 nominated) PersonChurch Profile Dr Jennifer Allen* Mayfield Baptist Church p.8 Rev Robert Ellis* Thornleigh Community Baptist Church p.9 Rev Karina Kreminski* Community Life Church Cherrybrook p.10 * Previous Assembly Council member (marked with asterisk). The following pages provide background information for those nominated (alphabetical order). Profiles as prepared by nominees. –7– ASSEMBLY COUNCIL NOMINEE – DR JENNIFER ALLEN NOMINEE: Dr Jennifer Allen (Associate Pastor) CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Mayfield Baptist Church PROFILE: Dr Jennifer Allen is the wife of Boyd and mother of two daughters and a son-in-law, and a grandmother to a granddaughter. Jennifer became a Christian at 20 years of age at university and since that time has been passionate about the mission of all believers to go throughout the world and make disciples. Originally trained as a teacher Jennifer has been awarded a Bachelor of Arts, Diploma of Education, Masters of Educational Studies and a PhD at the University of Sydney and has been engaged in education in some form for over 30 years, initially in early childhood and primary school settings and then as a teacher educator at university, where she has been given awards for teaching excellence locally and nationally and for her publications. In her role as university academic staff she has taught in the fields of Sociology of Education, Social Philosophy and Educational Psychology and has published books and educational material which has widespread use in universities throughout Australia. Her ongoing research interest is in worldview change, organisational culture, mental health and resilience and she counts it a privilege to be the face of Jesus Christ in her workplace. Currently Jennifer is the Missions Pastor at Mayfield Baptist Church and Dean of Students at the University of Newcastle. Jennifer has served on the Assembly Council during 2013, is a member of the steering group of Crossover Australia and has spoken and served locally, nationally and internationally as an academic into her research area and as a pastor into the missional heart of the church worldwide. –8– ASSEMBLY COUNCIL NOMINEE – REV ROBERT ELLIS NOMINEE: Rev Robert Ellis CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Thornleigh Community Baptist Church PROFILE: Rev Robert Ellis is married to Virginia and has two teenage daughters, Julia and Sophie. They worship at Thornleigh Community Baptist Church, where he has been in membership since 2003 and ministers through small group leadership, chairing of church meetings, chairing the Pastoral Search Committee in calling a Senior Pastor and mentoring of young adult leaders. Previously they were in membership at Gordon (1998-2002) and Queanbeyan (1995-98) Baptist Churches, where he served as pastor. He is an accredited Baptist pastor and graduate of Morling College. Cooking for family and friends, coffee, gardening, reading, and keeping fit are activities he enjoys. Robert currently serves with BaptistCare, as a General Manager responsible for local community ministries, meeting the needs of people experiencing disadvantage and distress. Prior to this he has served as NSW & ACT Director with Global Interaction (2003-10), providing leadership for a team of staff and volunteers, resourcing local churches, supporting cross cultural workers and enlarging the team connected with unreached people groups across Asia and Africa. He has been a member of the Committee for the Ministry since 2003, served as a church consultant for the denomination and contributed to the Directions 2012 process including involvement in the Mission One Taskforce. He is deeply committed to the local church and longs to see greater levels of church health and mission effectiveness, both down the street and across the world. Robert believes that he can make a valuable contribution to the Assembly Council in reaching these goals, through his skills in change management, the development of supporting structures and processes and faith-based leadership and governance. –9– ASSEMBLY COUNCIL NOMINEE – REV KARINA KREMINSKI NOMINEE: Rev Karina Kreminski CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Community Life Church Cherrybrook PROFILE: Rev Karina Kreminski grew up in a Christian family attending Spanish-speaking churches and Ukrainian churches as a child, as this is her cultural heritage. She attended Christian Community High School in Regents Park and then completed a Bachelor of Arts at Sydney University, majoring in Politics and Fine Arts. After this, she completed a TESOL certificate and travelled to Argentina, the land of her birth, to teach English. While she was there Karina also became a foreign correspondent and published articles in The Australian. She also worked for a national newspaper as the music/ arts critic and co hosted a citywide radio program called Radio WOW. Karina returned to Australia in 1994 and began teaching unemployed people job skills and English. She then went to Morling College to do a Bachelor of Ministries, after a time of searching for God’s purpose in her life. She graduated from Morling College in 2002, and at that stage, she was serving as Associate Pastor at Auburn Baptist Church. Upon finishing her degree and becoming an accredited minister, she took up the call to serve at Community Life Church Cherrybrook as Associate Pastor in 2002. She served with a focus on Discipleship and Christian growth. After this, Karina became the Senior Pastor when the former pastor left. She has been serving as Senior Pastor at CLCC now for 6 years. She preaches regularly at other churches and conferences of various denominations and has also been a part of the Vision Committee for the past two years for the Baptist Association. She is currently doing a doctorate (D.Min) at Regent University in the USA. Karina has have served on the Interim Assembly Council for a period of 6 months from September 2012, and then in March 2013, was elected to the Assembly Council for a further 12 months. Her initial appointment to Assembly Council was for a 1-year term (determined by ballot). She is keen to continue her work on the Assembly Council and to assist in bringing the vision which the Council has been working on to fulfillment. – 10 – Nominations for Morling College Council membership and profiles of candidates for election Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT – 11 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL The Morling College Council is the governing body responsible for decision-making in relation to the conduct of Morling College, as the theological college of the Baptist Association. The 12-member Morling College Council comprises:• 10 persons elected by Assembly • the Chair of Morling College Academic Board • a person with academic expertise co-opted by the Morling College Council at its discretion. The Council is responsible for offering training as determined by the Association; the training of persons accepted by the Association for training for Baptist ministry; the training of cross-cultural ministry workers and other spheres of Christian service; the promotion of the Christian faith consistent with the basic doctrines, statement of belief and values of the Association and offering courses accredited by relevant government authorities and supportive of national goals for higher education. The Principal of the College, the Director of Ministries and Morling College General Manager attend meetings of the council, but are not entitled to vote. Section 34.4 of the Constitution provides that at the first meeting of the Morling College Council following the appointment of their respective members under the Constitution at the March 2013 Assembly, members will be given the opportunity to volunteer for reappointment for either a 1, 2 or 3 year term with the intent that one-third of the members serve a 1-year term, one third 2 years and the remainder 3 years. There are therefore three (3) vacancies to be filled at the 29 March 2014 Assembly for Morling College Council, as one-third of the members have completed their 1-year term. Those members retiring are eligible for re-nomination, subject to their consent. The three Morling College Council members retiring who have served their 1-year term are: • Mr Peter Adcock • Prof Trevor Cairney • Mr Ross Low – 12 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL NOMINATIONS FOR MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP (N.B. 3 persons to be elected by Assembly, from 3 nominees) PersonChurch Profile Peter Adcock* Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church p.14 Prof Trevor Cairney* Petersham Baptist Church p.15 Rev. Ric Sindel* Lighthouse Community Baptist Church p.16 *Previous Morling College Council member (marked with an asterisk) The following pages provide background information for those nominated (alphabetical order). Profiles as prepared by nominees. – 13 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL NOMINEE – PETER ADCOCK NOMINEE: Peter Adcock CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church PROFILE: Peter Adcock is married to Charlene with 8 children (3 are long term foster children) and 2 grandchildren. Peter is a member of Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church, where he was baptised in 1993. He has since served as a volunteer at Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church, including the roles of Service Co-ordinator and Ministry Leader for Finance and Admin. He has a First Class honours degree from Adelaide University. He was involved in a $2 million research project with UWS and UNSW, starting as a PhD candidate and becoming the General Manager of a research commercialisation company. Peter has have owned several businesses, which have known failure and success. These businesses and associated properties are being donated to found Greater West for Christ, a ministry of the Baptist Association of NSW & ACT, targeting revival in Western Sydney. He is currently the trustee of the GWFC Discretionary Trust and Resource Leader of GWFC Ministries, with the goal of resourcing Church and Humanitarian activities in the Greater West. Peter is a current director of the Morling Board, and has served in this role since 2012. He has also served on the Directions 2012 Governance Taskforce, including the role of Chairman. He has previously been a director of the Stormwater Industry Association of NSW, including the role of Deputy Chairman. His interests and hobbies are all sport based including Penrith Panthers, the Greater West Giants and the Western Sydney Wanderers. Peter is a very passionate person, and those passions include: • Regional Bible College training integrated and empowering the local Church • Diploma level theological education complementing higher degrees • Recruiting, training, and resourcing of Church administrators (Stephen Ministry from Acts 6) that empower and release pastors to pray and preach • Correcting ineffective denominational and local Church governance • Baptist identity, our heritage and our future – 14 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL NOMINEE – TREVOR CAIRNEY NOMINEE: Prof Trevor Cairney CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Petersham Baptist Church PROFILE: Name of spouse (family) Carmen Cairney, two children, 6 grandchildren Church membership Petersham Baptist Church (12 years), previously Springwood Baptist (12 years), Wagga Wagga Baptist (3 years), Bathurst Baptist (5 years) Description of professional career, roles performed Master of New College & Professor of Education at UNSW. Director of the Public Theology centre CASE. Academic work in the fields of education, learning & language development. Written widely on these fields plus apologetics, relationship of narrative to faith, & Christian education. Editor of apologetics publication Case. He has over 30 years experience in higher education as a researcher, Dean of Faculty, Pro Vice Chancellor & Professor. Has been an adviser to many theological colleges and universities in relation to academic development, postgraduate and undergraduate course development, research culture, staff development and governance. Skills and experience Twenty-five years management experience in varied roles and extensive experience as a board member of Christian and non-Christian companies and organisations. Leadership of a number of major multi-million dollar development projects at UNSW. Roles served in local churches and other ministries, particularly leadership involvement Has filled varied roles in four Baptist churches including deacon, elder, part-time preacher, young adult leader, home group leader etc. He has had a long association with AFES having been Sydney Area (1989-93) and National Chairman (2003-2007) and an associate staff worker in the 1980s and 90s. Leadership Team at Petersham Baptist, and Chair of the Flo Harris Lodge Management Committee. Other interests/hobbies Gardening, reading, carpentry, fishing and time with his wife, children & grandchildren. Passion/reason for nominating, and description of his hopes for the Council and what he expects to contribute, if elected. He sees a strong theological college as critical for a strong Baptist Association and Baptist churches generally. Trevor wants Morling to become the leading theological college in this country judged on a broad range of criteria. He wants it to continue to offer strong support and leadership of pastoral and lay ministry to the denomination. He also wants to continue to support the major development work of the college as part of the Council, Council Executive and Council Development Committee. – 15 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL NOMINEE – RIC SINDEL NOMINEE: Rev. Ric Sindel CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Lighthouse Community Baptist Church, Rouse Hill PROFILE: Rev Ric Sindel is married to Jane and has three children. He has been a member of Lighthouse Community Baptist Church for seven years, and previously Eastwood, Ramsgate and Parramatta Churches. Ric initially practiced as a civil engineer. He served as a deacon and youth and young adults leader at Eastwood Church, along with involvement in outside ministries. Ric has sought throughout his life to exercise a range of practical, caring, analytical and communication skills, with the aim of bringing people to a living and growing faith in Christ. Ric graduated from Morling with a Bachelor of Theology, Diploma of Ministry and Master of Arts in Theology. He pastored Ramsgate Church, was team leader at Parramatta Baptist Church for seventeen years, and now pastors Lighthouse Church at Rouse Hill. Ric has involved himself in various civic and community responsibilities, he is a retreat group facilitator, has led mission teams to Thailand and serves on the Association’s Standards Committee. He loves sport, travel, movies and occasionally reading biographies and history. Ric has served as a College Council member and director for a number of terms. He is committed to using his pastoral skills to help the College continue to grow as a dynamic centre of training where students from all walks of life are encouraged to learn, be challenged, to grow as disciples and be equipped for witness and holisitic ministry. Ric is keen to see the public face and engagement of Morling continue to be developed, especially in the areas of academic research, events, publishing and development of new delivery forms of teaching. Ric is particularly concerned that faculty and staff are well resourced and supported, and that students undertaking study for pastoral ministry are thoroughly equipped and encouraged. – 16 – Nominations for Morling College Faculty and profiles of candidates for election Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT – 17 – MORLING COLLEGE FACULTY The Morling College Council may appoint and re-appoint full-time and part-time persons to the faculty of Morling College upon such terms and conditions as the council thinks fit. Appointments and reappointments of all full-time Morling College faculty are conditional upon confirmation of the appointment at the next Assembly. Clause P of Schedule B of the Guidelines for Conduct of Assembly Meetings in the Constitution requires that the election of Morling College faculty is to take place by ballot at the Assembly meeting. NOMINATIONS FOR MORLING COLLEGE FACULTY MEMBERSHIP (N.B. 2 persons to be elected by Assembly, from 2 nominees) PersonChurch Profile Dr Miyon Chung Macquarie Baptist Church p.19 Rev Dr Graham Hill Thornleigh Community Baptist Church p.20 The following pages provide background information for those nominated (alphabetical order). Profiles as prepared by nominees. The appointment of Dr Miyon Chung to the position of Lecturer in Theology and related disciplines has been approved by the Morling College Board and is a new appointment commencing 10 February 2014. The appointment of Rev Dr Graham Hill to the position of Vice Principal, Communications has been approved by the Morling College Board and is an appointment to a new role commencing 8 October 2013. – 18 – MORLING COLLEGE FACULTY NOMINEE – MIYON CHUNG NOMINEE: Dr Miyon Chung POSITION: Lecturer in Theology and related disciplines CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Suwon Central Baptist Church, Korea (currently attending Macquarie Baptist Church) PROFILE: Miyon Chung was born in Seoul, Korea and immigrated with her family to the USA in March 1979. Her educational credentials include a B.A. (Government/Pre-Law) from the University of Texas at Austin; two MAs from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Church Social Work and Theology); and a PhD in Theology from the same seminary. While working on her PhD, she taught Systematic Theology classes as a Teaching Fellow at SWBTS from 1996 to 2001. During these years, she concurrently served as Academic Dean of Dallas Korean Seminary and Guatemala Baptist Seminary. In 2002, she moved to Seoul, Korea to teach at Torch Trinity Graduate University’s department of Systematic Theology. While teaching at Torch Trinity, she handled additional responsibilities as the editor of Torch Trinity Journal, Director of programs (Mdiv, Doctroal, and Library), Chair of Committees (International Student Committee, Torch Strategic Mission Scholarship Committee, etc). She also led colleagues and students to participate in the school’s international mission projects (Angel Project). Her local church membership in Korea was with Suwon Central Baptist Church, in which she was appointed as an associate missionary and served in the area of translation, teaching, and assisting various international ministries of the church. She also assists Korea Baptist Convention in its involvement with APBF and BWA. She has taught at numerous seminaries, Bible colleges, and ‘underground churches and institutions’ in Asia, Central Asia, Africa, and Central America. Her recent teaching trips from 2013 and 2014 include Kachin Bible College in Myanmar, Christ College in Nepal, Oriental Theological Seminary in India, and an undisclosed Bible college in North East Asia. Her Baptist ministries include working with Baptist World Alliance (Deputy Chair of METR and commission member of Doctrine and Christian Unity), and Asia Pacific Baptist Federation (Chair of Theological Education and member of Executive Committee). She also works with Diaspora Track of Lausanne Consultation on World Evangelism/ Global Diaspora Network. She recently resigned from serving as Chair of Asia of GDN and has been reappointed to assume the same role in the Pacific region. In 2014, she moved to Morling College in Australia as a lecturer in Theology and related disciplines. She looks forward to learning about this part of the world, working with Australian Baptists, and teaching for a Baptist college. – 19 – MORLING COLLEGE FACULTY NOMINEE – GRAHAM HILL NOMINEE: Rev Dr Graham Hill POSITION: Vice Principal, Communications CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Thornleigh Baptist Church PROFILE: Rev Dr Graham Hill is married to Felicity (they have been married for 18 years), and have three daughters, Madison, Grace and Dakotah. Their family is involved with Thornleigh Community Baptist Church. Prior to Thornleigh Baptist, he was chair of the elders at Bayside Community Baptist Church. Graham currently serves as the Vice Principal (Communications) of Morling College. He joined the Morling faculty in 2007 as Lecturer in Pastoral and Practical Studies, the Director of the Centre for Leadership Studies, and the Coordinator of Postgraduate Coursework degrees. Before Morling he lectured in Culture, Mission and Leadership at Burleigh Baptist Theological College in South Australia. Before that he served as the Director of Baptist Youth Ministries in Western Australia. Graham has been in Christian ministry since 1988, and has experience in local church leadership, including church planting, youth ministry, associate pastor of a large growing congregation, and coaching pastors and planters of missional/ecclesial experiments. His passion for teaching about Christian ministry, missiology, and spiritual formation has opened up doors for teaching in North America, India, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Korea, Malaysia, Cambodia, Jamaica, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Graham has a PhD (theology) from Flinders University in South Australia, examining the implications of missional theology for local churches. His research interests include the theology and practice of Christian leadership, comparative and missional ecclesiology, leading churches through change and transformation, and fresh ways of doing, being and becoming church. Aside from his role as Vice Principal (Communications), he teaches courses such as Ministry Formation, Christian Leadership and Management, Church Dynamics and Health, Leading Churches through Change and Transformation, Missional Ecclesiology, and Practical Ministry and Theology. His two books are “Salt, Light, and a City: Introducing Missional Ecclesiology” (Wipf and Stock, 2012) and “Servantship: Sixteen Servants on the Four Movements of Missional Servantship” (Wipf and Stock, 2013). He has a third book coming out with Intervarsity Press in 2014. As a member of Morling College faculty, he is passionate about training men and women for Christian ministry. – 20 – Nominations for Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust and profiles of candidates for election Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT – 21 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW PROPERTY TRUST The Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust is an incorporated body created by the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust Act 1984. At each annual Assembly, an election of members of the Trust shall be held to fill the offices of the members of the Trust which will become vacant at the end of that Assembly. Two Trust members are due to retire by rotation. There are therefore two (2) vacancies to be filled at the 29 March 2014 Assembly for the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust. Those members retiring are eligible for re-nomination, subject to their consent. The two Property Trust members retiring are: • Craig Collins • Allan Leslie Holden NOMINATIONS FOR BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW PROPERTY TRUST (N.B. 2 persons to be elected by Assembly, from 2 nominees) PersonChurch Profile Craig Collins* Epping Baptist Church p.23 Allan Leslie Holden* Caringbah Baptist Church p.24 *Previous Property Trust member (marked with an asterisk) The following pages provide background information for those nominated (alphabetical order). Profiles as prepared by nominees. – 22 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW PROPERTY TRUST NOMINEE – CRAIG COLLINS NOMINEE: Craig Collins CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Epping Baptist Church PROFILE: Name of spouse – Katrina Collins, 4 children Church membership Epping Baptist Church for approximately 2 years and previously at Eastwood Baptist. Description of professional career, roles performed CEO Jones Lang LaSalle – Hotels and Hospitality Group His main role is undertaking and overseeing the sale of accommodation hotels around Australia and New Zealand. Skills and experience Craig has worked in the property industry for over 20 years. He has a Business degree in Land Economics. Roles served in local churches and other ministries, particularly leadership involvement Craig is a Board Member of BCS. Other interests/hobbies His wife and kids. Passion/reason for nominating, and description of your hopes for the Property Trust and what you expect you can contribute, if elected. Craig is happy to use his knowledge and experience to assist our Churches. – 23 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW PROPERTY TRUST NOMINEE – ALAN HOLDEN NOMINEE: Allan Leslie Holden CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Caringbah Baptist Church PROFILE: Allan Holden is a widower with two adult children and four grandchildren. He has been a member of Caringbah Church for over 55 years, and a member of Marrickville Church, where he grew up, prior to that. Allan is a Chartered Accountant by profession and his previous duties have included oversight of a number of terminating building societies and credit unions. He had a wide range of clients, including several notable Baptist people. He has served as the Honorary Auditor at Caringbah Church, plus on several denominational committees. These include the Baptist Property Trust, where he has been a member since its formation in 1984, as well as Secretary and Treasurer for a number of years. His leisure interests include being a member of a local Probus club, and travel, including the south coast area. During his long service on the Baptist Property Trust he has gained a considerable amount of experience in the various facets of its operations, which he is keen to continue to use in the future if re-appointed. – 24 – Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT Reports – 25 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL APPOINTMENT OF THE ASSEMBLY COUNCIL, MARCH 2013 The members of the Assembly Council were elected on Saturday 23 March 2013 at the Assembly of the Association of Baptist Churches of NSW and ACT at Georges River Community Life Church. The Assembly Council replaced the Interim Assembly Council that had responsibility during the transition period. Members elected at the ballot for the Assembly Council in 2013 were: Jennifer Allen Mayfield Baptist Church Matthew Arkapaw Mortdale-Oatley Baptist Church Robert Ellis Thornleigh Community Baptist Church June Heinrich NewHope Baptist Church Alan Kelshaw Springwood Baptist Church Karina Kreminski Community Life Cherrybrook Scott Morrison Georges River Life Church Alan Rice Baulkham Hills Baptist Church David Slinn Gordon Baptist Church Kel Willis Burwood Baptist Church (Appointed Chair, Morling College Council) As our Constitution requires three members of this Assembly Council to retire each year, lots were drawn to determine the length of each person’s term of service. The result was a one-year term for Jennifer Allen, Rob Ellis and Karina Kreminski, each retiring in March 2014. Matthew Arkapaw, Alan Rice and David Slinn received two-year terms, retiring in 2015 whilst Alan Kelshaw, June Heinrich and Scott Morrison received three-year terms, retiring in 2016. Upon retirement, each member is eligible to nominate for re-appointment. The Council appointed Alan Rice as Chair for a one-year term. The elected Council members and senior staff of the Baptist Ministry Centre have each completed annual returns providing disclosure of relevant interests. The Director of Ministries was an Assembly appointment at the last Annual General Meeting on the recommendation of the Interim Assembly Council. The other major appointment of Secretary to the Assembly Council was made in the initial months of the Council’s administration. Ken Clendinning, Ross Clifford and Stephen Pearson attend meetings of Assembly Council as non-voting members in their respective capacities as the Director of Ministries, Principal of Morling College and Secretary to the Assembly Council. Geoffrey Moore was appointed an Honorary Legal Adviser, Constitution, Commercial and Property. The Assembly Council is seeking expressions of interest from anyone with a legal background who is willing to serve in an honorary capacity in the area of industrial relations, migration and sexual abuse. The Assembly Council met on nine occasions over the year with its meetings being held on the second Tuesday in each of the scheduled months at 2 pm at the Baptist Ministry Centre, 3 Carlingford Road, Epping. Matters addressed in this first report of the Assembly Council relate to the objects, powers, duties and obligations outlined in the Incorporation Act. – 26 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT OF THE OVERALL STRATEGIC DIRECTION The major commitment of the Assembly Council has been the development of the Strategic Direction and Vision for the Association. A working group that included some staff as well as some Assembly Council members developed the Strategic Plan. The process has involved a Retreat for Council members where prayer and reflection on current developments led to the beginnings of a vision for the future. Focus groups have examined and extended the ideas whilst the last Assembly also provided “big ideas” as a contribution to its further development. A key feature has been the alignment of the core values, the strategic direction and the strategic plan giving us a set of cohesive documents, facilitating collaboration and enabling churches to work in partnership and be supportive of one another. The document has been signed off by the Assembly Council and will now be presented at this Assembly as a document for consideration by the churches and for church feedback through assessment and comment. We thank the Director of Ministries, Rev Ken Clendinning for his oversight of this important project, which was a major responsibility arising from Directions 2012. We have met the target date for its development and therefore after endorsement by the Assembly we will begin the process of communication, promotion and implementation. STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND PERFORMANCE REVIEWS Staff change has been a feature of the past year as the new structure has been put into place. The Director of Ministries, Rev Ken Clendinning commenced following the March 2013 Assembly and is proceeding according to the responsibilities outlined in S.14.4 of the Constitution. Baptist Ministry Centre staff have been restructured and procedures have been revised to be more accessible to those people that we serve. Assembly Council is greatly heartened and appreciative of the initiatives taken by the Director in his management of ministries associated with his office. Stephen Pearson from the Baulkham Hills Baptist Church was appointed Secretary of the Assembly Council and has an important role in the ongoing work of the Council and the Assembly. He is the point of contact for the Assembly Council and serves as Secretary of the three standing committees of the Assembly Council. Details of meetings of the Assembly Council are to be available on the website. Both officers have participated in a performance review undertaken through a process managed by a Sub-Committee of the Assembly Council with outcomes being confirmed by the Assembly Council. Ms Heidi Tak was appointed by the Assembly Council as Associate Director for Finance and Administration in June 2013 on the recommendation of the Director of Ministries. FINANCIAL SITUATION FOR THE CHURCH PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT BUDGET (CPSB) Finance has been an important area in which there has been revitalisation. Ms Heidi Tak, Associate Director for Finance and Administration, has undertaken the administration of this area, and we appreciate the contribution she has made in this role. At this time of change in financial requirements we appreciate the support being provided to churches – 27 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL through Heidi and the Baptist Ministry Centre team and through the work of the Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee chaired by David Slinn. Some efficiencies have occurred in expenditure that will allow increased support for ministries. In planning the budget all churches were invited to contribute 5% of their offerings and income to support the Association of Churches as a whole. This level of giving has been adopted widely. We are grateful to churches that contribute generously and sacrificially to supporting the ministry of our Association. The funding from churches has also been supplemented by funding from affiliated groups of the Association. Where have we reached? For the 12 months to 31 December 2013, the level of actual giving was $1,418,643 against a budget of $1,650,000. This represents a shortfall of $231,357 (14%). The large difference is due to the change of the year-end cut-off, as the actual CPSB of $1,418, 643 were receipts from February to December 2013. The receipts for Jan 2013 $155,268 were reported as income for 2012, which has been happening historically. In reality, we were short by $77k rather than the full $231k. We have decided to change this year as it is not good accounting practice to leave the ledger open for so long. The change will also assist in our cashflow analysis. This year is a positive beginning in supporting the Association of Churches through the CPSB. Churches in partnership with our agencies demonstrated their commitment to advancing the Gospel of Christ in accord with our vision. COMMITTEES OF THE ASSEMBLY COUNCIL Standing Committees of the Assembly Council have been functioning in their respective areas, providing their minutes and advice to the Council. Rev Tim Burns, Senior Pastor at Mortdale-Oatley Baptist Church chairs the Committee for the Ministry and its structure comprises a Committee as well as a larger group of panel members involved in interviewing applicants for accreditation and recognition. The Committee has recommended that David Biddle, Patrick Chavez, Philip Evans, David Freeman, Grant Jones, Stephen Kan, Travis Ryan and Aaron Terry be approved to proceed to accreditation. David Slinn chairs the Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee (mentioned above) whilst the Nominations Committee is active in dealing with appointments pertaining to the Assembly Council. The Assembly Council introduced a Ministry Standards Committee to address issues associated with the implementation of the Ministry Standards Policy including responding to allegations against accredited and recognised ministers. AFFILIATED GROUPS Affiliated groups of the Association represent a diverse group in interests, size, purpose and resources. It is expected that each affiliated group will enter into an Affiliated Covenant or Memorandum of Understanding by September 2014. A sub-committee has been established to develop the framework for these agreements and will undertake discussions with each of the Boards and Leadership Teams in the forthcoming 6 months about the particular work for which each is responsible. – 28 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL We also wish to understand the governance arrangements that apply to each affiliated group and to ensure that their plans are aligned with the overall strategic direction for the Association as approved by the Assembly. The aim is to establish an agreement with each affiliated group that is appropriate to their circumstances and ministry and is designed to align developments in each organisation with the intentions of the Assembly. In a special relationship close co-operation exists between the Assembly Council and the Morling College Council and a joint meeting was held to enable discussion on proposed developments at Morling College. The relationship with Morling will also be cemented with a Memorandum of Understanding. GOVERNANCE AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT Whilst the previous year focused on the transitional elements of the Constitution, this year has enabled the Assembly Council to develop a working relationship with the Director of Ministries, Rev Ken Clendinning and to focus on the Vision and Strategic Direction of the Association. As we progress in our administration the Assembly Council is becoming more deeply engaged in the development of its Governance role and in the development of a full range of Governance Polices. In strengthening our connections with churches, at each meeting the Council has considered developments and issues within the Association related to Directions 2012 that are being addressed by the Baptist Ministry Centre. In the coming year this reporting will be based upon the Strategic Directions statement adopted at this Assembly. PROPERTY MATTERS Following extended consultation about the future location of the Baptist Ministry Centre, the Council has negotiated the extension of the lease at 3 Carlingford Road, Epping (the current site) for a period of 6 years. The current building has proved effective as a base for servicing Baptist Churches in the Sydney metropolitan area as well as across the State and ACT and for facilitating collaboration with Morling College and other Baptist ministries. Renewing the lease will also give the association the full financial benefit of the investment in the fit-out of the leased area undertaken some years ago. Property decisions have been taken in relation to HopeStreet to facilitate its mission in Woolloomooloo and in relation to the Morling College development. The Amendment to the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust Act 1984 received assent on 27 May 2013. These were first considered at a Mini-Assembly on 7 May 2011 at Epping Baptist and were approved at the Annual Assembly on 22 July 2011 at Parkside Baptist Church. The Secretary of the Assembly Council forwarded details to Churches. The full text is available at: www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/nsw/consol_act/bconswpta1984587/ ACCESSING THE RECORDS ON THE WEBSITE TECHNOLOGY A priority for the coming year is to make better use of the website in communicating information including minutes of Assembly Council meetings to churches and delegates. The development of the website is underway and will offer new possibilities in communicating – 29 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL and working together in partnership. The Assembly Council is committed to transparency so that there is greater awareness of the matters it is considering. PASTOR-TO-PASTOR PROGRAM REVIEW Directions 2012 research project identified a need for a program to support pastors who are experiencing stress in their role and for it to be provided in a sensitive manner, independent of the usual structures. The part-time position of Pastor to Pastors was established on a two days per week basis. The Assembly Council reviewed the program in 2013 with data being collected anonymously online. Whilst the response rate was relatively small the participants of the service identified benefits they received and rated the program as very valuable. The report recommended the continuation of the program and subject to resources, extension to three days per week. The Assembly Council is very appreciative of the work of the Rev Dr John Reid who has developed the role and given much time to supporting and advising colleagues. We appreciated the contribution of Rev Ian Altman for guiding the research and are grateful to those who contributed to the evaluation. REVIVE 2013 This was a most successful conference and celebration and our congratulations are extended to the Revive Committee, Rev Kevin Warner its Chair, the members of the Revive committee and Kylie Hood, Events Manager at the Baptist Ministry Centre. The keynote speaker was Paul Scanlon, Senior Pastor of the Abundant Life Church, Bradford. The major addresses and worship sessions were inspirational and gave much encouragement to our churches as we go about the transformation of our strategies for ministry. Our thanks go to the workshop leaders who contributed stories, programs and practical ideas from our churches. Their spiritual insights assisted us in better empowering our people for mission. Revive 2013 achieved increased church attendance over previous conferences and we were delighted that over a third of our churches were represented. We look forward to Revive 2014 at the Olympic Park Sports Centre on 1-2 August 2014 with Hugh Halter from Adullam Church in Denver, Colorado as the keynote speaker. The Pastor and Leaders Launch prior to Revive will be held on 21 May. This day is for all leaders in our churches. NEW CHURCH PLANT – NEWHOPE BAPTIST CHURCH (KELLYVILLE & THE PONDS) The Assembly Council recommends that Newhope Baptist Church (Kellyville & The Ponds) be recommended for affiliation with the Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT. This is a church plant, which was originally planted out of Carlingford Baptist Church about four years ago, with Rev Des Ong as the lead planter. The church was formally constituted on 9 December 2013 with 34 foundation members. The church currently has 106 adults and children who call Newhope their Church family and Rev Des Ong pastors it. They meet at Kellyville Public School and use a local before and after school care centre for their playgroup ministry. The Church is growing and it is exciting to see the community that has developed as well as its outward focus on the global and local contexts. – 30 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL Their ministry areas are: Playgroup – playtime for 0-5 year olds with a Christian emphasis during story time as well as focusing on nurturing and building relationships with the parents of the children who attend. Hospitality – they have a ministry called Heart 4 Hospitality, which provides meals to those in the community who are in need. Recipients of this ministry are sourced from our relationships with local schools & community groups as well as within the Newhope church community. eQuip Services – their eQuip services are the corporate gatherings that are geared toward learning practical application of gospel values in our daily lives. Kids eQuip – a contemporary children’s program has been adopted and run by qualified teachers and educators from within the congregation. Community Engagement – they are actively involved in assisting local community projects by partnering with organisations to build healthy relational local community, which provides opportunity to demonstrate gospel values and share what it means to be followers of Jesus. DNA groups – they encourage the entire congregation to be involved in a DNA group. DNA stands for Discipleship, Nurture, and Accountability. They recognise that to develop and strengthen healthy relationships, an environment that demonstrates this acronym outside of the context of the corporate gathering is important. Global Mission – as a church they have adopted Thai people as their strategic global mission plan. They have already sent a small global mission team on a fact-finding mission and are partnering with Global Interaction in developing this ministry. ARRANGEMENTS FOR ASSEMBLIES, 2014-2015 The Ordinary Assembly for 2014 will be held on Saturday 13 September whilst two Assemblies are planned for 2015, the Annual Assembly on Saturday 21 March 2015 and the Ordinary Assembly on Saturday 12 September 2015. ASSEMBLY COUNCIL MEETING ATTENDANCE During the year to 11 February 2014, the Assembly Council met on 8 occasions. Attendance by members at these meetings was as follows: Dr Jennifer Allen 5 Rev Matthew Arkapaw 7 Rev Rob Ellis 6 Dr June Heinrich 7 Mr Alan Kelshaw 6* Rev Karina Kreminski 6 Rev Scott Morrison 7 Dr Alan Rice 8 Mr David Slinn 7 Rev Kel Willis 6 * LEAVE OF ABSENCE GRANTED FOR 2 MEETINGS – 31 – ASSEMBLY COUNCIL We thank the Assembly for the trust you placed in us in the implementation of important changes in our management and services to churches and for the opportunity to advance the Kingdom of God through our joint efforts. Our focus has at times been broad. Important spiritual and moral issues within the community have made the past year demanding for all Christian organisations including the Assembly Council and we give thanks to God for His guidance and direction. RECOMMENDATIONS 1. That Assembly welcomes Newhope Baptist Church (Kellyville & The Ponds) as a church affiliated with the Association of Baptist Churches of NSW and ACT, having met all the requirements. 2. That the names of David Biddle, Patrick Chavez, Philip Evans, David Freeman, Grant Jones, Stephen Kan, Travis Ryan and Aaron Terry be approved to proceed to accreditation and, after being set apart for ministry their names be added to the List of Accredited Ministers, on the advice of the Committee for the Ministry. 3. That the Church Partnership Support Budget target for 2014 be $1.6 million based on the advice of the Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee. Dr Alan Rice Chair, Assembly Council – 32 – COMMITTEE FOR THE MINISTRY NEW COMMITTEE Following the March 2013 Assembly, a new Committee for the Ministry was formed until the March 2016 Assembly comprising: 7 persons appointed by Assembly Council Tim Burns, Ted Bell, Judith Carpenter, Rob Ellis, Heather Jones, John Macindoe and Louise Ramsay 1 person appointed by Morling College Lyn Scott 1 person appointed by Director of Ministries Vivian Grice The following 3 non-voting members also attend meetings of the Committee: Director of Ministries, Ken Clendinning Secretary to Committee for the Ministry, Stephen Pearson Associate Director Global Interaction, Andrew Palmer Tim Burns has been elected as Chair of the Committee. MEETINGS OF APPOINTED MEMBERS The new Committee for the Ministry met seven times through 2013. Attendance of appointed members was as follows: Ted Bell 5 Tim Burns 7 Judith Carpenter 6 Rob Ellis 2 Vivian Grice 7 Heather Jones 0 * John Macindoe 6 Louise Ramsay 4 ** Lyn Scott 6 * Unable to attend weekday meetings ** Joined CFM in August 2013 ACCREDITATION INTERVIEWING PANEL The Committee is able to co-opt other appropriately qualified persons to assist with the interviewing of applicants for accreditation as a minister of the Association. The following people have indicated their availability to assist the Committee in this regard: Carolyn Altman, Melanie Carroll, Heidi Campbell, Judy Clendinning, Ross Clifford, Ian Deane, Steve Dixon, Megan du Toit, Frank Farag, Wayne Forward, Rae Goth, Barbara Griffin, Stephen Hales, Andrew Hall, June Heinrich, Graham Henderson, Graham Hill, Marilyn Jobberns, Stephen Li, Jamie Long, Danelle McLeay, Keith Mitchell, Nasim Oweis, Brian Powell, Nathan Reid, Robyn Richardson and Phil Waugh. We are blessed to have such a large number of people who are willing to participate on the panel. It has enabled the Committee to alternate panel members so that the time commitment is not too onerous on any of the members. – 33 – COMMITTEE FOR THE MINISTRY DIVORCE SUB-COMMITTEE The following persons were appointed to the Divorce Sub-Committee until April 2015: Judy Clendinning, Stephen Cooper, Mark Falson, Rae Goth, Barbara Griffin and Brian Powell. This Sub-Committee has dealt with 2 cases during the year. ACCREDITATION PROCESS REVIEW SUB-GROUP During the year, the Committee for the Ministry formed a sub-group to review the accreditation process (including consultation with stakeholders and surveys with applicants). The sub-group will present a draft of suggested changes to the Committee for the Ministry in 2014. ACCREDITED MINISTERS LIST REVIEW SUB-GROUP During the year, the Committee for the Ministry formed a sub-group to review the List of Accredited Ministers in terms of the integrity of the list and to follow up persons in doubt so as to clarify their current circumstances The sub-group will report back to the Committee for the Ministry in 2014. ACCREDITATION CANDIDATES A total of 16 candidates were interviewed to become accreditation candidates. 14 candidates were accepted. One previously accepted candidate has withdrawn from the accreditation process and one was granted 12 months leave of absence. There has been one appeal against discontinuation as a candidate for accreditation and the appeal was dismissed. Following final interviews the Committee recommends to the Assembly Council that David Biddle, Patrick Chavez, Philip Evans, David Freeman, Grant Jones, Stephen Kan, Travis Ryan and Aaron Terry be approved to proceed to accreditation having met all the requirements, completed their appropriate studies and are in an appropriate ministry to be accredited. TRANSFER OF ACCREDITATION The Committee reports that the name of the following was added to the Accredited Ministers List: Farhad Khan (transferred from Fresh Hope – Churches of Christ NSW) The Committee reports that the names of the following were transferred from the Accredited Ministers List: Neil Bernard (transferred to Baptist Union Queensland) David Moyes (transferred to Baptist Union Queensland) David Roffe (transferred to Baptist Union Tasmania) John Smuts (transferred to Baptist Union Great Britain) The Committee reports that the name of the following was removed from the Accredited Ministers List: John Lane (retired and no longer attends a Baptist church) The Committee agreed to Geoff Cann retaining his accreditation while in the new ministry role of Chaplain Uniting Care, Nowra. – 34 – COMMITTEE FOR THE MINISTRY RECOGNISED MINISTERS Since June 2013, 16 people have applied to become Recognised Ministers and have been approved and added to this list. Those approved as Recognised Ministers are: Luke Bartlett (Youth Pastor, Narwee Baptist Church) Matt Beckenham (Pastor, Haberfield Baptist Church) Brad Blacker (Lead Pastor, Blackheath Baptist Church) Nicholas Cassar (Young Adults & Worship Arts Pastor, Dural Baptist Church) Luke Elkhuizen (Youth & Young Adults Minister, Carlingford Baptist Church) Pedro Haedo (Pastor, Fairfield Baptist Church) Jason Harris (Pastor for Celebration, Belconnen Baptist Church) Brad Hewitt (Youth Pastor, Cooma Baptist Church) Karen Jimmy (Youth Pastor, Mayfield Baptist Church) Bountheung Kanya (Pastor, Cabramatta Lao Baptist Church) Doug Knight (Pastor, Milton-Ulladulla Baptist Church) Mark Penna (Associate Pastor, Toongabbie Baptist Church) Andrew Sumpton (Pastor, Cobar Baptist Church) Andrew Warner (Associate Pastor Children Youth & Young Adults, New Vines Lakes Baptist Church) Ben Whitehead (Community Pastor, Mayfield Baptist Church) – re-acknowledgement Luke Wyllie (Pastor Youth, Young Families & Children, Wingham Baptist Church) Rev Tim Burns Stephen Pearson ChairSecretary – 35 – FINANCE AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL COMMITTEE REPORT ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION REPORT NEW FINANCE AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL COMMITTEE Following the last Assembly and as required by the new constitution of the Association, a new Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee has been formed comprising Alan Kelshaw, June Heinrich and David Slinn as Assembly Council representatives, Geoff Moore as Hon Legal Advisor and Jack Chalmers as an Assembly Council appointee. Graham Warner, who has been the Deputy Chair of the Australian Baptist Insurance Scheme, will be joining the Committee in 2014. This will leave one remaining vacancy. Former members of the previous Finance Board, Ken Williams and Bill Baker, stepped down after a number of years of service and we note with appreciation and thanks their contribution to the former Finance Board. The new Committee will operate under the provisions of the new constitution and delegations made by the Assembly Council and David Slinn was elected Chair of this Committee. Also attending committee meetings are the Director of Ministries, Ken Clendinning, the Associate Director of Finance and Administration, Heidi Tak and the Secretary to the Association, Stephen Pearson. Their input and assistance is greatly appreciated. The committee reports directly to the Assembly Council and all minutes are tabled at Assembly Council meetings. DIRECTIONS 2012 AND OFFICE RESTRUCTURE As a result of the adoption of Directions 2012 and implementation of a new constitution for the Association of Churches in NSW & ACT, there have been very significant organisational changes to the overall operation of the Ministry Centre and in particular in the finance and administration areas. The role of General Secretary no longer exists, with Alan Soden stepping down during the year, and it is important to acknowledge the contribution made by Alan Soden as General Secretary over many years and his help during the transition phases. The work by Alan and his team has laid the foundations on which we can now build upon with the new constitution approved by Assembly. During the year, Heidi Tak was appointed as the Associate Director for Finance and Administration, having previously been an audit manager at Deloitte. Heidi has a wealth of experience working with not for profit and other church organisations and already Heidi has been able to implement a wide range of changes to improve the financial and operating processes within the Ministry Centre. We are very fortunate to have someone of her experience and calibre in this new role. There has been some restructuring of the finance and administration team and we also want to acknowledge the contributions of Greg Gough and Ian Abbott who have provided great support to the finance and administration area over a number of years. Following the organisational changes, there is now a full complement of finance personnel within the Ministry Centre that will significantly improve the overall resourcing and operations in this area. – 36 – FINANCE AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL COMMITTEE REPORT ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION REPORT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND CHANGE OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES The 2013 Financial summary will be separately distributed at Assembly and sent to church representatives. The summary and financial statements are also available online on the Association’s website. In line with the organisational changes, it has been decided to change our accounting policies from 2013 onwards to move to a standard accrual basis of accounting. In the past, under the old structure, the Union historically operated on a special purposes funds reporting basis. This is an historical legacy aligned to the former structure of the Union. The change in organisational structure has resulted in a detailed review and changes to cost centres, changes to management reporting, a detailed review of delegated authorities, limits and procedures as well as the transition to an accruals basis of reporting. The change in accounting policies means that a number of liabilities not previously recorded in the accounts now need to be brought to account such as employee leave provisions and depreciation charges. These are non cash items and do not represent an expense for 2013 but nevertheless need to brought to account through the profit and loss account. This means that for 2013, an abnormal loss is being recorded to reflect these liabilities not previously recorded due to a different accounting basis. For 2013, there are also significant one off reorganisational costs in relation to the restructuring of the Ministry Centre. With the restructuring, it is also an opportune time to tidy up a range of historical balances and items so that we move forward with a clean sheet. CHURCH PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT BUDGET (CPSB) The CPSB is based on the premise that each church will contribute 5% of church offerings to fund the work undertaken by the Association to support the combined ministry of our churches. As reported by the Chair of the Assembly Council, church contributions for 2013 were again under budget. With the change to the accounting policies mentioned from 2013, contributions recorded for the year will only include those amounts received up to 31 December each year. For 2013, this means only 11 months of contributions were recorded in the accounts adding $155,000 to the overall deficit. Going forward, it is imperative that churches make their contributions by this cut off date, being the last day of the financial year. In order to assist us in our budgeting process looking forward to 2014, we requested in late 2013 information from each church around their intention to contribute to the CPSB for 2014. So far, less than 11% of churches have responded to this request, which is disappointing. We would like to express our appreciation to those churches that have responded, as it assists us in our decision making process and financial planning. For those who have not yet responded, we would appreciate your assistance by letting us know your proposed CPSB amount for the year. Your advice is not binding but indicates overall the level of income from churches we might expect. We are hoping for 2014 that we will meet the budget target of $1.6M. MINISTRY CENTRE LEASE RENEWAL During the year, the lease for the Ministry Centre was renewed for a further 6 years from 1 December 2013. This will allow existing organisational changes to be bedded down whilst longer-term strategic plans are developed under the new structures. It will – 37 – FINANCE AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL COMMITTEE REPORT ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION REPORT also fully utilise the fitout costs related to the initial relocation of the offices from Glebe 5 years ago. PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS With other changes to Hope Street and its incorporation as a separate affiliated organisation, 182 Campbell Street, Darlinghurst has been sold and 172-174 Cathedral Street, Woolloomooloo has been acquired as a new office and ministry centre for Hope Street. Settlement of the Campbell Street property is due in March 2014. In the interim, investments held were disposed of to help fund the purchase of 172-174 Cathedral Street, Woolloomooloo, which settled in July last year. These investments will be replaced once the Campbell Street settlement is finalised. BUDGET 2014 In conjunction with the change to accounting policies and cost centres, a new budgeting process has been adopted for 2014, which is comprehensive and covers all cost centre and activities of the Association. The budget for 2014 is intended to fully cover all operational costs with the objective of generating approximately $500,000 pa income on investment and designated funds. There is an intentional policy to build these resources to assist with the objectives of church planting and church rebuilding aligned with our overall objective of significantly increasing the number of active and healthy Baptist churches in the next generation. With development of strategic plans consistent with these objectives under the leadership of the Director of Ministries, it is expected that more of these resources will be deployed in the next few years. AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS During 2013, significant support was received from affiliated organisations including Baptist Insurance Management ($740,128), Baptist Financial Services Australia Limited ($921,169) and Bedford College ($200,000). The Association simply could not operate on a financially sustainable basis without the support of these organisations. We ask that you support them and utilise their services wherever appropriate and thank them for their very significant and vital ongoing support. This significantly reduces the pressure on financial support from churches that would otherwise be required. The level of financial support provided to Morling College also reduced during the year in line with the progression of the College’s redevelopment plans and funds realised from the sale of the land associated with the College. It was necessary during the year to provide additional financial support to HopeStreet as it transitions to an independent and separate incorporated organisation. The amount of $750,000 that was set-aside in 2012 also contributed to HopeStreet’s capital to assist it to acquire new premises at 130 Bourke Street, Woolloomooloo from which to operate its Women’s Space and other ministries. The financial support is limited to 2013 and will not form part of the 2014 budget. During the year, the Association took over from HopeStreet the auspicing of the Kinchela Boys Home. This is essentially funded from government grants and has the NSW Governor as its Patron. – 38 – FINANCE AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL COMMITTEE REPORT ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR – FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION REPORT CONCLUSION 2013 has been a year of significant change and represents an important refocusing of our efforts in supporting local churches and our collective ministries. Whilst a significant deficit was recorded due to this restructuring, it represents a significant realignment of our financial reporting and resources. The new reporting arrangements will hopefully help us all to better understand the resources we have and deploy them in the most effective ways to build God’s kingdom here on earth. David Slinn Chair Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee Heidi Tak Associate Director for Finance and Administration – 39 – NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE The responsibilities of the Nominations Committee are outlined in S11.3 of the Constitution. It plays a role in conjunction with churches in ensuring our best people are encouraged to come forward for election to the important decision making bodies of the Association. The focus is on ensuring that the skills required for the effective operation of each Committee/Board are available through its appointed and elected members. Members of the Nomination Committee are selected from the Assembly Council. In 2013-2014, initially its membership comprised Jennifer Allen, Matthew Arkapaw, Alan Rice and Kel Willis. Following the ballot to determine the length of term for each Councillor (see Annual Report), Jennifer Allen withdrew and was replaced by June Heinrich. The matters it has addressed over the past year have been as follows: • Nominations for the Assembly Council to be selected in March 2014. •Co-option of two persons to the Assembly Council as outlined in the Constitution, with skills required to strengthen its governance role. This was deferred for further consideration in 2014-2015. •Nominations for appointment to the Standing Committees and to the Standards Committee. Nomination to each Committee for appointment as Chair and members was approved by the Assembly Council. •Nomination of a member to the Bedford Business College Board was approved following consultation with the Chair, Rev John Morrison. Arrangements for the filling of vacancies on the managing boards of affiliated groups will be an important aspect included in discussions with groups during the development of their agreements with the Assembly Council. In its efforts to encourage churches in the Association to submit the nominations of suitable persons for election to decision-making bodies, the Assembly Council reminded churches of positions to be filled as well as the processes involved. Dr Alan Rice Convener – 40 – DIRECTOR OF MINISTRIES This report reflects upon the nine-month period that I have been in this new role of Director of Ministries. May I express my appreciation for the support and encouragement that many have given to the team at the Baptist Ministry Centre during this period, particularly for the many volunteers who serve our Association of churches through taskforces, advisory groups and in other capacities. This year has been a transition period in which we have endeavoured to respond to and implement the Assembly decisions from Directions 2012 so that we might better serve our churches. A major focus has been a transition strategic plan for the year. As part of this transitioning, substantial restructuring has occurred in the Baptist Ministry Centre as all roles have been reviewed and Position Descriptions adjusted. With some of the new arrangements, this led to a few of the previous roles becoming redundant. We thank Alan Soden, Greg Gough and Ian Abbott for their years of service to our denomination. Alan continues to serve on the Boards of some of our affiliated groups. We welcomed Heidi Tak as the Associate Director for Finance and Administration and she has added others to the finance team. The finance and administration areas have since been evaluated which has led to the updating of the financial systems and budgeting as well as reviewing all policies and procedures. There is still a lot more work to do in 2014. There have also been changes to numerous Ministry Support and Development (MSD) taskforces to become more advisory groups in nature. Although remaining as the Director of Pastoral Development, Viv Grice has taken on responsibility for leading the MSD team. Another major focus has been the development of the ‘Vision’ for the Association and a ‘Strategic Plan for 2014-16’ which will be considered at this Assembly. Thanks for the wide range of persons who have contributed to this development. Church surveys were distributed late last year to assist the Ministry Centre to identify more clearly who our churches are and the diverse needs we have. We appreciate those who have returned the surveys as they are assisting us to focus on those needs. Below are some of the activities that the Ministry Team has been engaged in over the past year. These were primarily aligned with the transition strategic plan. PASTORAL DEVELOPMENT Over the past twelve months, the Pastoral Development Taskforce has continued to give attention to producing policies and guidelines for churches and pastors aimed at sustaining healthy pastoral life and practice. In particular, the resource for churches undertaking the call of a new pastor, Managing the Call, has been revised. Guidelines relating to pastoral Sabbaticals have also been completed, while other resources relating to Work-Life Balance issues and the use of social media are in the throes of being finalised. With regard to resourcing the professional and personal development of our pastors, five workshops/seminars were conducted throughout the year. Additionally, October 2013 saw the first annual Pastors, Chaplains and Spouses Conference, which was held in Wollongong. This is intended to be an annual event. Rev. Peter Brain, former Bishop of Armidale, and author of Going the Distance and Rev. Doug Sotheren, a Baptist pastor and – 41 – DIRECTOR OF MINISTRIES counselor, provided relevant input to the approximately 70 attendees. The Conference will seek to resource and support pastors and their spouses on the assumption that healthy pastoral ministry cannot exist unless healthy relationships and family life are fostered. At a local church level, Ministry Support and Development also provides resources and support for regular pastoral reviews aimed at professional and personal growth. In the year ahead, in an effort to sharpen the focus of where resources ought to be allocated in the area of pastoral development, plans are well underway to establish a baseline measurement of the current well-being (physically, spiritually, relationally, emotionally and missionally) of our 400 plus pastors in NSW/ACT. This will be done via a voluntary survey, conducted in conjunction with an external provider, enabling us to identify areas where we need to target resources for pastoral health. A longer term strategic challenge faces us as an Association, given the two realities (i) the retirement of a significant number of baby-boomer aged pastors over the next ten years and (ii) the commitment of the Association to have a thousand healthy churches within a generation: the identification, equipping, support and development of appropriately gifted persons to provide pastoral leadership for our churches and especially church plants into the future. A review of current accreditation pathways and processes is underway (to be concluded in 2014) and is an initial small step on the path to dealing with this strategic challenge. We continue to believe that God will provide the needed resources as we diligently and wisely seek to call women and men into ministry. CHURCH DEVELOPMENT The Coaching program has continued to develop and introduce people to the power of coaching as a way to develop other people for the sake of the Kingdom. We have reviewed and developed a new vision for the next three years. In August, it was great to organise for six “emerging evangelists” to attend a Crossover Australia conference in Melbourne with international evangelist Dennis Pethers. This was such a success we are looking to do this again in 2014. The participants came from our Narwee, Wagga Wagga, Blacktown, Hawkesbury Valley, and Grace Community (Wamberal) churches. Unfortunately, over the past year, a number of churches paid a high cost as a result of conflict, both in terms of lost members and also lost ministry impact. We have sought to be alongside such churches to ease the pain somewhat and give advice during these stressful times. We have also been proactive in running seminars, workshops and training events to better equip and educate in this important area of church life. We welcome the affiliation of Newhope Baptist Church (Kellyville & The Ponds). A number of other churches have been accepted to proceed towards becoming affiliated. Ermington Baptist Church closed, as its members have become part of Riverside Baptist, which shared the same premises and pastor. Limetree (Narellan Baptist) has decided to close, so we are exploring planting new works in the Oran Park and Mt Annan areas. The Bathurst and Wallsend churches celebrated 150 years of ministry. We also owe a real debt to the work done by a number of our Church Health Consultants, who have stepped in to many situations to resource our family of churches, many of – 42 – DIRECTOR OF MINISTRIES them involving considerable amounts of time as well as the need to travel large distances. The quality of assistance offered has been of a very high standard, and many churches have gone on to access their skills for other areas of church life. These consultants are unpaid and give sacrificially of their time. CHURCH PLANTING Our emphasis on church planting continues. In 2013, Newstart plants have begun in Manly (Manly Life Church), Jesmond (near Newcastle University), Barrington (near Gloucester) and Gungahlin (out of Mosaic Church, previously Belconnen Baptist). Newstart has also provided active encouragement to a number of other plants, including some ethnic plants. Newstart ran the 5th annual “Inspire” church planters summit, with 66 planters and teams from 22 different church plants in attendance. Queensland and Victorian Baptists are both launching similar summits after teams from both states attended ‘Inspire NSW’ last year. A network to connect ‘simple churches’ (which often meet in homes) has also commenced, with our first networking event to be held this year. The Gen1K Intercessory Team was launched at ‘Inspire 2013’ under the leadership of Sorubi Thavaratnam and is providing support to planters as well as promoting the opportunity for prayer for our plants and their leaders. If you would like to pray specifically for the planting work of NSW Baptists, Sorubi can be contacted at [email protected]. While the number of plants commencing each year is still similar to a decade ago, since we began to revise our support of church planting 8 years ago, the rate of new plants closing within their first few years has decreased from 60% to 15%. Now having 85% of our church plants flourish into the longer term is something we can be truly thankful to God for. Beginning to accelerate the rate of church planting will be a key priority for 2014 and beyond, as Steve Bartlett now becomes fulltime as Associate Director for Church Planting. YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS This year was another one of connecting with and understanding the needs, passions, concerns and joys of our youth and young adult workers. There is a growing sense of wanting to be working together, building relationships and sharing resources between each other. Some of the highlights in the youth and young adult ministries have included visits to our regional youth ministries, our second annual Anchored Conference for Young Adults, and the appointments of a new administrator (Daniel Dalton) and Hunter Regional Worker (Lysander Lawrence). Steve Dixon has engaged with a number of youth pastors at Morling College as he taught the youth ministry intensive on ministry with nonchurch youth. Steve has completed a Masters project in which he looked at a spiritual health care plan for youth pastors. There has also been a number of churches looking for new youth pastors/workers this year - some that have been filled, and others still looking. Your prayers for this issue are greatly appreciated. – 43 – DIRECTOR OF MINISTRIES CHILDREN AND FAMILIES In addition to 40 visits to churches for various events, communication with churches happened regularly through 4 different e-newsletters: Children and Families E-news (weekly 625 subscribers), SRE Church Bulletin (each term 480 subscribers), The Encourager Playtime newsletter (monthly, 350 subscribers) and Teaching Tips (weekly 700 subscribers many of whom are coordinators who send it to their team). Yvette Wynne’s one day a week provided web resources at christianplaytimes.com plus day seminars for Playtime leaders coaching them to make their groups more missional. Our Together in Families and Children’s Ministry site served churches well as will the new SRE site. Dan Dalton was employed to provide admin support and we now have a good system of delivering and recording training for our 1000+ volunteer Scripture teachers, ensuring that those we authorise are compliant with regulations. The new SRE training videos SRE Essentials have been completed and will ensure that all teachers have access to required training. Sally Smith has retired from her role at the end of January 2014 with the SRE part of her role being taken over by Cheryl Clendinning. This will enable the new Coordinator, Louise Bartlett, to focus on providing support and development of church centred ministries. GODSPACE Those who use GodSpace, the Special Religious Education (SRE or Scripture) curriculum produced by us for 4 to 12 year olds, have made a significant impact upon over 80,000 children, generally weekly. Predominately used in public schools in NSW and Queensland, its usage also extends to include every state and territory in Australia, plus New Zealand, USA, and the Philippines. Bringing lessons about the Bible and God’s story in a relevant and engaging way is a real privilege. Sales over the past 12 months have increased, with the inclusion of quite a number of Christian Schools, mostly by word of mouth and people seeing this great resource. With a growing database that gives us direct contact with 493 users of GodSpace, we have been able to build relationships and provide support. Combining with quality SRE training and representation on numerous committees, Baptists of NSW and ACT are making a significant contribution to giving children the opportunity to hear about the good news of Jesus. REGIONAL MINISTRY We have appointed new Regional Ministers in Ian Altman (Western Districts), Mark Chapple (Greater West Sydney), Brendan Handel (Illawarra and Upper South Coast) and reappointed Kevin Warner (Hunter) and John Wilson (Northern Rivers). During 2014, appointments are still to be made for the South Coast, Mid North Coast/North Coast and the North West – New England regions. CAMPING MINISTRIES With the former manager of Kiah Ridge, Mark Roberts, moving to Victoria, the Board appointed Kevern Bawden as the new manager. As well as being a venue for groups to hold camps and retreats, the staff are increasing missional input into visiting schools as well as running their own ministry focused groups for kids and others. – 44 – DIRECTOR OF MINISTRIES MINISTRY STANDARDS In June 2013, Joanna Drayton commenced in the role of the Ministry Standards Manager. Much of her first six months was spent orienting to the Standards Policies and Procedures agreed to at the March 2012 Assembly, working with the newly formed Standards Committee, building a strong working relationship with the Chair of this committee and fielding several enquiries of a huge variety. The Standards Manager oversees the roll-out of the Safe Spaces programme. In 2013, we have held 64 CSS workshops with 2,501 attendees (10 of these workshops were Refreshers). By way of comparison: in the whole of 2010, we had 43 workshops with 1,307 attendees; in 2011, we had 64 workshops with 1,826 attendees; and in 2012, we had 61 workshops with 1,794 attendees. We are very encouraged by the successful uptake of this informative programme evidenced by the raised awareness within our churches about responding to issues of child protection, safe ministry models and methods, boundary setting and safe church coordination. REVIVE Revive 2013 was a great time of our churches coming together to celebrate, worship and learn, featuring Paul Scanlon from the UK. Revive experienced a diverse representation of people with over 800 guests attending from over 135 of our churches from across NSW, ACT and interstate. It is encouraging to note guests came from all association districts except for one. Information technology currently being implemented throughout the Association facilitated a simpler registration process. Another exciting development is the expansion of the events role to include other major events within the Association. COMMUNICATIONS Communications have seen the development of a new online payment gateway and events, shopping cart and community based website. The information sent to churches has been consolidated into more relevant yet less frequent formats. This will develop greatly over the next 12 months along with the Baptist Churches website and the Together magazine. In addition to this, we are working on creating regional access to training and events using a combination of regional planning and technology. The focus of communications in 2014 is to help develop the best possible relationship between people in churches and the Association. FUTURE DIRECTION The focus for 2014 will not only be consolidating previous and recent initiatives, but focusing primarily on actioning the implementation initiatives that are being considered at this Assembly. One of these areas will include developing Memorandums of Understanding with all our Affiliated Groups. Please be in ongoing prayer for the Baptist Ministry Centre Team as they seek to serve our Association. Rev Ken Clendinning Director of Ministries – 45 – GLOBAL INTERACTION NSW & ACT At Global Interaction, we believe God’s greatest gift is a life-changing experience of Jesus that is then expressed in culturally distinctive ways. We love that across NSW and the ACT, our Baptist Churches also express such cultural diversity and distinctiveness in worship while at the same time holding a strong sense of unity in Christ. Our mission is to see this gift embraced by least-reached people groups around the world. It is a privilege to share in this ministry with our Baptist Churches in NSW & ACT. We thoroughly endorse and seek to live out the CORE FIVE VALUES of the NSW & ACT Baptist Churches – indeed being Christ Centred, Mission Shaped, People Empowering, Relationally Committed and Partnership Oriented describes perfectly the undergirding values of Global Interaction. 2014 offers new gospel opportunities in, through and alongside our Churches and we are energised by the possibilities. MINISTRY NEWS Petina Abbott concluded her Church Support role in the office with the Administration team at the end of December with a view to moving to Thailand as part of the Ethnic Thai Team in early 2014. We are delighted with the way that NSW/ACT Baptist Churches have prayerfully and financially supported Petina as she follows God’s mission call. Ken Fraser continues to raise support as he readies himself for ministry amongst the H people of Central Asia. Pip Miner is concluding her service with Global Interaction after eight years in Cambodia. Pip’s faithfulness, vision and leadership has had a profound effect in Poipet and she leaves a legacy of faithful, gifted and equipped Khmer Christian leaders to continue the work that she began. We are incredibly grateful for her service. Richard and Ira Blevins have concluded their service in South East Asia among the IS people group after seven years. We are deeply thankful for their love for God and his love for the IS people, for the relationships they formed where they could share the gospel story in word and deed. Please continue to pray for the new believers, as they grow in faith and maturity in a difficult environment. Wyneth Nobbs concluded her service amongst the K people of the Silk Road after ten years. During this time the team and ministry underwent significant change and Wyneth’s faithful service was a key ingredient in enabling the ministry to continue and be rejuvenated. We appreciate greatly her gentle and determined work in gospel sharing and language tutoring. The loss of such experienced staff is difficult to manage and we have clear need of more men and women hearing and committing to God’s call to global mission. Over the course of the next 12 months we desire to see four more ministry “units” (singles, couples or families) committing to journeying with Global Interaction in Long Term Cross Cultural Gospel Ministry. Please continue to pray to the Lord of the harvest to raise up more workers (Matthew 9:37-38)! – 46 – GLOBAL INTERACTION NSW & ACT HOME ASSIGNMENT The Gravitas and Nix families return for Home Assignment in 2014 and will be available to speak in Churches and Missions Support Teams, sharing stories of what God is doing around the world and providing opportunities for Church and individual partnerships, as well as taking time for refreshment and renewal. STATE NEWS Cross Cultural staff on Home Assignment uses our ministry homes. Under the leadership of Carmel Ward they have all been significantly upgraded over the course of the past 12 months. This opportunity has come about in substantial part by the incredible generosity of a couple of families from our Churches. We are incredibly grateful for their love and support. Providing our cross cultural staff with a comfortable and welcoming home when they return on Home Assignment is a key value for us at Global Interaction. Soltura Specialty Coffee (www.solturacoffee.com.au) was launched in 2013 as an ethical way to purchase coffee and support Global Mission and financially partners with Global Interaction. Please support this ministry by buying your Church and home coffee via Soltura. 50 Baptist Churches purchasing 8 small bags per week = $55,000 p.a. to Global Mission support. The Plunge Program continues to be an important discipling ministry for young adults and Global Interaction is pleased to continue partnering with Morling College in training young adults with a clear Christ-focused discipleship focus alongside a substantial cross cultural element. STRUCTURE Competence and focus is vital in ministry and we have been pursuing a more integrated and effective pathway for managing the breadth of our mission: pastoral, theological / methodological and compliance / financial. As a result we are in the process of introducing a new structure for accountability and planning. Details are available on request, but broadly speaking 3 sub-groups replace the ‘Global Interaction Council’ and receive reports and in turn advise regarding relevant matters in the areas previously mentioned. As your denominational mission representative team we sincerely thank you for your ongoing support in prayer, finance, personal encouragement and engagement in mission. MEETING ATTENDANCE 3 General Meetings Rev Dr John Reid 3 Ms Pam Alexander 3 Pastor Julie-Ann Warton 3 Rev Phillip Grebert 3 Rev Norm Nix – Chair 3 Rev Nathan Reid -Global Interaction 3 Rev Andrew Palmer NSW & ACT Director Global Interaction – 47 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL PASTORAL & PREACHER TRAINING Morling College remains committed to equipping the whole Church – the existing as well as the next generation of pastors, leaders, cross cultural workers, preachers and teachers. Morling’s vision is to equip the whole believer to take the whole gospel to the whole world. Morling has a strong focus on the Bible, Ministry, Mission and Theology and we strive to equip all of our students with the training and background necessary to allow them to serve in a variety of roles. Understanding the Bible and Theology is essential to serving God within the church and broader community as a spiritual leader. Morling offers training in pastoral leadership, chaplaincy, preaching, apologetics, youth and children’s ministry, and our Plunge (Gap Year) program. At the heart of Morling is the desire to develop people for pastoral leadership. We do this by shaping the whole person for pastoral ministry — their theological and biblical understandings, missional imagination, spiritual life, and practical ministry skills. Morling has a dedicated “Pastoral Leadership Cohort” that includes ministry learning groups and the input of experienced and highly regarded pastors. As well as pastoral ministry is the need to equip men and women to powerfully preach God’s Word. Students at all levels of experience can access a full range of hands-on homiletics courses, delivered by a teaching faculty of recognised preachers and pastors. Regular preaching skills workshops, various Masters intensives, the Morling Preaching Conference, and regular Preaching Skills Days augment these courses. Morling also offers a Preaching Internship to suitable candidates. In May 2014, Morling College is hosting the next Preaching Conference: The Faithful in Life & Doctrine with international guest speakers Dr Robert Smith, Jr. (Professor Christian Preaching, Beeson Divinity School, Alabama) and Dr Allan Demond (New Hope Baptist Church, Melbourne). Working closely with Rev. Tim Blencowe, Chair of Homiletics at Morling and Pastor of Macquarie Baptist Church, Dr Smith Jr. & Dr Demond will present and connect Doctrinal Preaching: Turning the Ink of Doctrine into the Blood of Life with Practical Preaching: Facing the relentless seven day cycle while leading and loving a local church. Now more than ever, the Church needs devoted Bible preachers, faithfully preaching the whole of scripture, faithfully watching the whole of life, and faithfully feeding on Jesus, week in and week out. This is the calling of the Faithful Preacher. If you are committed to Bible teaching ministry, then join with pastors and ministry trainees from around NSW and Australia for the 2014 Morling Preaching Conference - inspired and equipped to be the Faithful Preacher, in Life & Doctrine. To register please visit www.morlingcollege.com/events MORLING FACULTY AND LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTS The Morling College Board recommends to the Baptist Union Assembly the appointment of Dr Miyon Chung to full-time faculty and the appointment of existing faculty Graham Hill to a new leadership role as Vice Principal (Communications). – 48 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL Dr Miyon Chung Morling College has also appointed Dr Miyon Chung as Lecturer in Theology, who commenced in February 2014. Miyon Chung joins our current theology lecturers, Ross Clifford, David Starling and Andrew Sloane, thus strengthening an already strong team in the field of Systematic Theology and related disciplines (Apologetics and Ethics). Dr Chung joins Morling from the faculty at Torch Trinity Graduate University in Seoul, Korea where she has been the Associate Professor and Chair of Systematic Theology; Program Director of the Doctoral and Masters Programs; and Editor in Chief of Torch Trinity Journal. Dr Chung has also previously lectured at Guatemala Baptist Seminary; Carson Newman University; Oriental Theological Seminary; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Dallas Baptist Seminary (Korean). Dr Chung brings a wealth of experience from many leading theological colleges around the globe. Dr Chung is a Baptist leader in Asia, and in her home church, Suwon Central Baptist where she is the Associate Missionary and translator. She works with the Lausanne and other evangelical groups. Dr Chung’s international ministries include working with Baptist World Alliance, Asia Pacific Baptist Fellowship, Diaspora Track of Lausanne Consultation on World Evangelism and Global Diaspora Network. Dr Chung’s research and interests include St Augustine; Creation and Environment; Kingdom of God; Justice and Theological Method. The Principal of the College Rev, Dr Ross Clifford said, “Morling is committed to cross cultural ministry and Dr Chung will bring new opportunities for ministries in Asia as well as equipping the Morling student body”. The Chair of the Morling Board, Rev. Kel Willis added, “I was very impressed with Dr Chung and believe she would bring much to Morling and add a dimension that continues to affirm our missional commitment”. Rev. Dr Graham Hill Rev. Dr Graham Hill has recently moved into the newly created position of Vice Principal (Communications) from his previous position as Director of the Centre for Leadership and Lecturer in Pastoral and Practical Studies at Morling. As the new Vice Principal (Communications), Rev. Dr Hill joins Principal Rev. Dr Ross Clifford AM, the Vice Principal (Strategic Development) Rev. Dr Michael Frost, the Academic Dean Rev. Dr Ian O’Harae, and the General Manager Peter McCrindle on the College Leadership team. Rev. Dr Hill’s new position includes the oversight of Morling’s Education, Counselling and Distance departments, and Morling’s regional training centres. Rev. Dr Hill is also responsible for the professional and ongoing development of students; supporting alumni, pastors and other Christian leaders; and supporting further creative partnerships between Morling and its key partners. Rev. Dr Hill continues to teach and publish in pastoral and church studies. Rev. Dr Andrew Sloane Morling also congratulates Rev. Dr Andrew Sloane, who has been appointed the Director of Postgraduate Studies (commencing July 2014). Rev. Dr Sloane is currently the Postgraduate Research Coordinator and lecturer in Old Testament and Christian Thought at Morling. As Director of Postgraduate Studies, Rev. Dr Sloane will be responsible – 49 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL for overseeing all of Morling’s postgraduate offerings including; involvement with the Australian College of Theology (ACT) and the Melbourne College of Divinity (MCD) University of Divinity, Postgraduate student advising and developing our Postgraduate programs. Mr Peter McCrindle Morling was pleased to have Mr Peter McCrindle join the College Leadership team in November 2013 in the role of General Manager. As General Manager, Mr McCrindle is responsible for the oversight of Morling operations, administration staff and overseeing the strategic initiatives, priorities and policies of the College. Mr McCrindle brings a wealth of experience in leadership, training, finance, management, mentoring and is also a graduate of Morling. FACULTY RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS Rev. Marc Rader Morling lecturer in Bible and Preaching, Rev. Dr Marc Rader will be awarded his Doctor of Ministry on 7th April at the Morling College Graduation Service. Marc’s project explored the difficulty preachers have in obtaining effective feedback. An on-line survey and a series of focus groups with Baptist preachers and their parishioners revealed that the primary obstacle was an effective process. Marc proposes that multisource feedback as used in business settings could provide a well thought out process that could be fruitfully adapted to the local church context. Rev. Dr Graham Hill Vice Principal (Communications) Rev. Dr Graham Hill launched his latest title in October 2013 Servantship: Sixteen Servants on the Four Movements of Radical Servantship. Servantship is a book about following our Lord Jesus Christ, the servant Lord, and his mission - it is a life of discipleship to him, patterned after his self-emptying, humility, sacrifice, love, values, and mission. Servantship is humbly valuing others more than yourself, and looking out for the interests and wellbeing of others. Servantship is the cultivation of the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had: making yourself nothing, being a servant, humbling yourself, and submitting yourself to the will and purposes of the triune God. Since servantship is the imitation of Christ, it involves an unreserved participation in the missio Dei—the Trinitarian mission of God. In this pioneering work, sixteen servants describe the four movements of radical servantship. Servantship is the movement 1. from leadership to radical servantship; 2. from shallowness to dynamic theological reflection; 3. from theories to courageous practices; and 4. from forgetfulness to transforming memory. Servantship recognises, in word, thought, and deed, that “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – 50 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL Rev. Dr Michael Frost Vice Principal (Faculty Development) Michael Frost released The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st – Century Church (tenth-anniversary edition) with co-author Alan Hirsch. Innovative missionary effort in the West is just as necessary today. The great paradox of our age is that while the need for the gospel has seldom been greater, the relevance of the church to the culture at large has seldom been less. With keen insight, The Shaping of Things to Come explores why the church needs to rebuild itself from the bottom up, presenting a clear understanding of how the church can change to face the unique challenges of the twenty-first century. Now thoroughly revised and updated with current case studies, this missional classic assesses the state of the church—and is still very much able to show us what lies ahead. MORLING PRESS PUBLICATIONS In 2013 Morling Press (the publishing arm of Morling College) was pleased to publish and launch the following titles: 1. Speaking of Mission Volume 2 edited by Rev. Dr Michael Frost, Director of the Tinsley Institute and Vice Principal, Morling College. This is the second volume of collected lectures by presenters of the Annual Tinsley Lecture at Morling College. The Tinsley Lecture was established in 1999 to provide a forum for Australian and international scholars to literally “speak of mission” in ways that encourage fresh and innovative responses to the challenges facing the church globally today. This volume includes presentations reflecting on such diverse cultural challenges as post-Christendom, new global culture and climate change. Other presenters tackle the challenges posed by Western suburbia, urban poverty and the loss of a meaningful sense of neighbourhood. Yet others explore the nature of religious conversion and the grand missional narrative found in Scripture. In doing so, they reveal the breadth of thinking being undertaken by missiologists and missional practitioners today. 2. On the Way to Faith: Personal Encounters with Jesus in John’s Gospel by Rev. Dr Ken Manley. On the Way to Faith is a practical resource for all pastors and preachers. John the Evangelist tells how Jesus met with different types of people including his mother, a religious leader, a marginalised and unhappy woman, a condemned woman, a blind man, a grieving family and even a Roman governor. In each case he gently but powerfully challenged them to begin a personal journey, to move forward on the way to faith. In this series of studies which originated as sermons, Ken Manley invites attentive reflection on these gospel stories as a powerful way for modern readers to begin or move forward on their own journeys on the way to faith, not only to learn about Jesus but to be transformed by Him. 3. Who Do I Think I Am? by Rev. Dr David Clayton was released at the Revive conference. Who Do I Think I Am? is a book exploring personal identity and what it means to be “in Christ”. It addresses some of the questions we all ask: Am I important? How do I know who I am? Does my view of myself impact my spiritual health? Does it affect my relationship with my Creator? Does it determine how others relate to me? Will it determine how I live? Author David Claydon draws on his own personal journey to explore what scripture has to say about who we are. – 51 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL All Morling Press publications and other Morling Faculty titles can be purchased online at www.morlingcollege.com/press MORLING ALUMNI MAP: MORLING GRADUATES IN ACTION On 29th October 2013, Morling College launched the new Alumni section on their website ‘Where can Morling take you?’ featuring an interactive world map that highlights where some of our graduates are serving today. This is a new addition to the website that was launched by Morling College in February 2013. The website has already proved to be a valuable resource for users and this new addition promises to enhance the overall user experience. The graduates have been divided into five main categories: Pastors, Cross-Cultural Workers, Counsellors, Educators, and Other. Each graduate story can be found by clicking the pin-drop on the interactive map. Vice Principal Rev. Dr Graham Hill said, “I like the way you can see how Morling has been preparing people for gospel ministry across various fields such as Pastoral, Education, Counselling, Aid and Development, and Social Research”. This interactive map has been designed as a tool for prospective students to hear a bit more about the experiences of Morling graduates, for current students to be able to see the opportunities they may have once they complete their studies, and for Morling’s current alumni community to be able to stay connected with one another post-study. “Looking at this map, I’m excited to see Morling having a global impact for the Kingdom of God,” commented Morling graduate Rev. Megan Du Toit, Associate Pastor at Gordon Baptist Church. The graduates on this website have each been interviewed about their journey at Morling and how it has helped to equip them to serve in their current ministries. An example is Morling theology and counselling graduate Ricky Su, who said, “I chose Morling College because it offered distance education and they provided the flexibility that I needed while working as an Australian Army Officer.” ‘Where can Morling take you?’ can now be viewed online: www.morlingcollege.com/alumni NEW TESTAMENT GREEK Morling College continues to meet the needs of new and continuing students by offering evening classes in New Testament, commencing in Semester 1 2014. The two subjects (LA004A & LA004B) give students a solid introduction to biblical Greek, including a vocabulary of 600 words, an understanding of basic Greek grammar, culminating in the translation of John 13 -17 in Greek. The subjects fulfil the first year language requirements for the Bachelor of Theology (BTh) and Master of Divinity (MDiv) awards, and are a prerequisite to studying New Testament exegesis subjects in Greek (also offered in evening classes). Morling faculty members Rev. Dr Tim MacBride and Rev. Dr David Starling are teaching the Wednesday evening classes. In 2014 Morling will continue to offer these subjects during the daytime as well as by Distance Education to Bible, Ministry and Theology students. – 52 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL Rev. Dr Tim MacBride said, “This is a great initiative of Morling. It’s not just designed for people who are completing an award, but for anyone who wants to study Greek to understand the New Testament with greater insight.” STUDY TOURS @ MORLING Morling has been privileged to provide education opportunities to existing students in places such as Israel, Jordan, Greece & Turkey. Most recently, 22 students joined Rev. Dr Ian O’Harae and Mr Neil Harris travelling through Greece and Turkey as part of Morling’s 2014 Summer School program. In July 2013 Rev. Dr Michael Frost and Rev. Dr Darrell Jackson led 24 students to Europe on the Morling European Study Tour. Study Tours at Morling have allowed students to engage with biblical texts whilst in the regions that they were first written and in doing so enrich the student experience at Morling. POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS In November 2013 Morling announced the granting of two Postgraduate Research Fellowships through The Morling Foundation for the 2014 academic year. The Postgraduate Research Fellowships for 2014 were awarded to Mr Matthew Andrew and Mrs Caroline Batchelder. Matthew Andrew is undertaking a PhD through the Melbourne College of Divinity (MCD), University of Divinity, and his thesis title is Analogy, Being and Time: Hart, Jenson and the Question of Impassibility. Matthew Andrew is looking at the question of divine impassibility — the idea that God neither suffers nor changes — how that has been explored by contemporary theologians and its relevance to “postmodern” critics of religion. Caroline Batchelder is undertaking her Doctor of Theology through the Australian College of Theology (ACT). Her thesis is A Study of the Servant of Yahweh in the Servant Songs of Isaiah 40–55 and the Whole of Isaiah. The Morling Foundation has established the Fellowships as an expression of their commitment to postgraduate research; encouragement and support of our research students; providing research students with experience in teaching and research in the theological academy; and contributing assistance in teaching, marking and research. The Fellowships are a one-year appointment. Rev. Dr Andrew Sloane, Director of Postgraduate Studies, said, “We at Morling College have been seeking to strengthen our commitment to theological scholarship and to grow our postgraduate student body. This exciting development furthers those goals and also expresses our commitment to both the MCD and the ACT.” Rev. Dr Ross Clifford, Director of the Morling Foundation and Principal of Morling College concurred. “This is a great initiative of The Morling Foundation. The Foundation is committed to academic excellence in the fields of postgraduate research and in training the next generation of pastors, teachers, academics and professionals. These Fellowships have been awarded to two of our outstanding postgraduate students.” – 53 – MORLING COLLEGE COUNCIL COLLEGE BOARD The College Board met on five (5) occasions during 2013. Attendance was as follows:CHAIRPERSON Rev Kel Willis 5 DEPUTY CHAIRPERSONS Rev Grae McWhirter Rev Angelo Gratsounas Prof Trevor Cairney 1 of a possible 1* 4 3 DIRECTORS Mr Peter Adcock 5 Rev Ian Deane 2 Mr Stephen Frost 4 Mr Ross Low 3 Dr Beverley Moore 2 of a possible 3* Assoc. Prof. William Pierson 4 of a possible 4* Dr Alan Rice 3 Mr William Rusin 4 Rev Richard Sindel 1of a possible 1* Rev Joshua Thomas 5 * Acted as a Director of the Morling College Council for only part of the calendar year. Rev Kel Willis Chairman – Morling College Board Rev Dr Ross Clifford Principal – Morling College – 54 – PRINCIPAL OF MORLING COLLEGE I commend to you the report of the Morling College Council and let me highlight some other matters. Firstly, the Lord has blessed us with a wonderful faculty. A pastoral leader said to me the other day that he could not imagine a better preaching faculty. And on reflection, I believe he is right. The Morling faculty is gifted in sharing God’s word and let me encourage you to ensure one of our faculty preaches in your church this year. Also, we as a denomination are blessed that the faculty are one of the most published faculty in Australia with the publishers including international publishers such a Baker and IVP. We thank God for the way the faculty are shaping the Biblical world view not just in Australia but also globally. Secondly, the shape of theological education is changing and Morling has been at the forefront of such transformation. We remain committed to full-time residential study of God’s word but realise we are a big and diverse country. Traditional education is not suitable for all. Therefore at Morling, one can study via intensives, online and part time. And of course, many of our students at one stage or another, choose all of these alternatives. Our aim is to equip the training of pastors, missionaries and laity on campus and in other modes where that is required. This mode of Theological education has led to the pastoral training in the Greater West as well as teaching hubs at Gymea and in Canberra. It was my privilege to share with some 90 students who were engaged over 6 nights on apologetics at Hughes Baptist Church in the Canberra region. Thirdly, we thank God for the initiatives in counselling, teaching education, chaplaincy and the gap year (Plunge). Some pastors in the future will be bi-vocational and they can prepare for such a ministry life through Morling. And one of the reasons the denomination came to Macquarie Park in 1960 was to enable the training of the “laity” and Morling is now meeting this call and we will continue to look at new initiatives and opportunities. Of course, don’t forget our free “lens” course, which allows everyone to experience a basic Bible College course. Fourthly, pray for us as the property development is reaching an exciting stage. We as a denomination took these initial steps in response to the vision God put before us that was consistent with those who went before us. Finally, as President of the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, let me ask you to have our region in your hearts and minds. We are over 60% of the world’s population, have over 60% of the world’s disasters and trouble spots, and fewer than 10% of our region is Christian. What a challenge the Lord is laying before us. In January I was preaching at Immanuel Baptist Church, Yangon, which is the first church in Myanmar founded by Adorian Judson. What a privilege it was and as I prepared to preach I prayed, “Lord may we as a College and denomination be one that seizes the opportunities that you place before us.” I was reminded what the leader of the “Wa” Baptist Convention in Myanmar had shared just a day or two before. “Our seminary is the main root of mission works and the centre for producing spiritual leaders.” Expand our vision Lord and may we be found faithful. Rev Dr Ross Clifford Principal Morling College – 55 – AUSTRALIAN BAPTIST MINISTRIES (ABM) The Australian Baptist Ministries (ABM) Council comprises of representatives from each of the State and NT Baptist Unions, Global Interaction, Baptist World Aid Australia and Baptist Care Australia. The Council Officers consist of Rev Dr John Beasy (South Australia) as the Chair, Rev Dr Ross Clifford, Mr Trevor Spicer (Victoria) and Rev Keith Jobberns as the National Ministries Director as well being the Director of Crossover. The Council meets twice a year to consider areas of mutual interest and collaborate approaches to issues of national importance to Baptists. The Council sponsors other collaborative meetings of state ministry leaders who also meet around the same time including the State Administrators, Australian Baptist Youth Ministries, Theological College Principals, Australian Baptist Multi-Cultural Ministries Taskforce and the State Leaders Group. A gathering of the Standard Unit managers from each state was also sponsored. The State Leaders group meets for an extra time each year and in 2013 this included leaders from New Zealand, PNG and Solomon Islands. The ABM also appoints representatives for the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation of which Rev Dr Ross Clifford is President for 2012-2017. A number of persons serve on various commissions and working groups with the Baptist World Alliance. The Council has been working to a strategic plan which has been developed and approved until the end of 2014. The Council has focussed on such issues as: • Regular updates on the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. • Response to the Royal Commission into Child Abuse. •Updates on the activities of Crossover Australia, Australian Baptist Insurance, Baptist Financial Services, Baptist World Aid Australia, Global Interaction and Baptist Care Australia. • Discussions around involvement in Australian Indigenous ministry. • Conference on risk management of camp sites. •Discussions around a presentation by the Christian Research Association on Baptist Life in Australia. •Submissions to governments on human rights and anti-discrimination law, the Sex Discrimination Administration Bill, Tasmania’s abortion reform law and the NSW racial vilification inquiry, same-sex marriage legislation and federal budget cuts to Australian Foreign Aid. • Establishment of an ABM Public Issues Committee. •Discussions around making public statements on behalf of Baptists and establishing appropriate protocols. •The Council and state leaders issuing a joint public statement calling our churches to prayer at Easter for the transformation of our nation. •Exploring the possibility of offering support in ministry resources to the Baptist leaders in Fiji. Rev. Ken Clendinning NSW and ACT Baptist Churches Representative – 56 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT Note – On Monday 3 February 2014 the company name of Baptist Community Services – NSW & ACT (BCS) changed to BaptistCare NSW & ACT. For the purposes of this report all references to BaptistCare should be understood as BCS for the period up to 3 February 2014. 1. INTRODUCTION On behalf of the Board and staff of BaptistCare NSW & ACT, we have pleasure in presenting this ministry report for the year ending December 2013. As we reflect on what has been achieved throughout 2013, we are pleased to report that there is much to be thankful for. This past year has been one that has involved a significant period of change for BaptistCare. It has been a positive time as together the organisation has taken significant steps towards Shaping Our Future. The aged care industry has been undergoing significant change and, as one of Australia’s major providers, BaptistCare wants to make sure that we are responding flexibly and effectively in an increasingly competitive and demanding environment. Following a thorough Strategic Planning process in February 2013, a restructure was undertaken in the first half of 2013 from a Regional Structure to a Business Stream structure. The resultant four Business Streams are Residential Care, Home Care, Housing & Retirement Living, and our LifeCare Division. Supporting these streams are Corporate Division, Strategy Implementation and the Company Secretary. The process has also included a renewed focus on a range of strategic priorities, which are further explored throughout the 2013 Annual Report, and particularly in the pages outlining the Strategic Plan. The full Annual Report can be accessed directly from www.baptistcare.org.au 2. AWARDS We are pleased to be able to celebrate a number of awards that were received by BaptistCare as an organisation, as well as individual staff members, throughout the 2012-13 year. This is particularly pleasing as it indicates that there is excellence, innovation and creativity occurring within our programs and that our people and the organisation are being recognised for this. Firstly, two of our facilities were finalists in this year’s Positive Living Aged Care Awards. These awards recognise providers in NSW who are implementing strategies to promote a positive approach to the prevention and management of mental health and wellbeing of residents in aged care facilities. Cooinda Court won one of the three - Positive Living in Aged Care Awards and $10,000 for a project that aims to prevent the onset of mental illness for aged care residents, particularly for residents from Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (or CALD) backgrounds. The eight-week project was a collaborative work between residents, staff, a specialist in ceramics and a contracted psychologist. Twenty-four residents identified creative ways to express their emotions by painting on ceramic pots and planting young orchid plants in the finished product. At Morven Gardens, in Leura, their “Never Too Old” program received a highly commended award with an innovative partnership between the Blue Mountains College of TAFE – 57 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT and residents at the Centre. The program involved ten residents participating in a weekly study program in subjects from basic computer skills to creative writing. Many of the residents used their studies to help achieve worthwhile personal projects that may otherwise have not come to fruition. Maranoa Centre – Alstonville received national recognition with a Better Practice Award from the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency. This award, for the Interactive Life Stories program, has residents and their families actively engaged with activities that lead to the digital production of a variety of media including movies, posters and books. They help care staff to discover what is genuinely important to residents, while empowering them to share their life stories with staff, families and each other to the benefit of all involved. Finally, the 2013 ACT Enrolled Nurse of the Year Award was presented to Karen Mulquiney who works at Morling Lodge in Red Hill and has been with the organisation for 8 years. What made this award particularly impressive for both Karen and BaptistCare is that her nomination was made by an external agency that was impressed by the level of dedication and standard of care Karen displays. 3. AGED CARE Quality Reporting & Accreditation BaptistCare AgedCare programs can celebrate that over the past year, 8 of our Home Care centres and 6 of our Residential Care facilities have undergone successful quality reporting and re-accreditation. It is good to acknowledge that a variety of positive feedback was received including comments about the quality of care provided by the centres and facilities, and about our employees’ commitment to care and management. It is also worth noting that, following the latest round of Home Care packages recently announced, BaptistCare has become the largest provider of home care across NSW and the ACT. Lismore Closure In May 2013 BaptistCare made the considered decision to close the Maranoa Lismore facility. This Centre was opened in 1969 with accommodation for 31 residents and was extended in 1973 to provide 75 beds in total. BaptistCare has looked carefully at two things: the needs and supply of aged care in the region and the capital investment that would be required to equip Maranoa Lismore for another significant period of service. Our findings were that a strong supply of other excellent residential care was available within the region and that, within current government requirements, an extensive refurbishment of the facility would not be financially feasible. The timeliness and graciousness within which this closure was managed is a tribute to the dedication and faithfulness of our staff. Throughout this whole process, the staff placed a clear focus on meeting the needs of residents, maintaining a positive and warm environment in the facility, putting the needs of residents before their own and providing excellence in care to each individual. – 58 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT The Gracewood Community One of the more significant events of this past year was the official opening of the The Gracewood Community, Kellyville by the Federal Member for Mitchell Mr Alex Hawke on Sunday 10 March. Mr Hawke was joined by the Mayor Councillor - Dr Michelle Byrne of the Hills Shire Council and the State Member for Baulkham Hills - Mr David Elliott. It is encouraging to be hearing that those who are living at Gracewood are enjoying the strong sense of community that has developed amongst the residents. In March 2013, we also celebrated the relocation of the Care Centre Hills District to The Gracewood Community and in September, the Robertson Day Respite Centre, previously operating at Carlingford, also located to the Kellyville site. Griffith Development In the ACT, the construction of the 160 bed Residential Aged Care Facility at Griffith continues to make good progress. Construction began in May 2012 with completion estimated to be by mid-2014. We look forward to dedicating and opening the facility that will allow the transfer of a significant number of the current residents from Morling Lodge that is located nearby. During 2013, there was also significant decision made in relation to Kitty Doyle – a social housing complex located in the inner west at Fivedock. On 3 May, the NSW Government gave consent to BaptistCare NSW & ACT to operate a Scheme of Administration as near as possible to the original intent of The Kitty Doyle Home Units Trust Incorporated. This has allowed BaptistCare to integrate the Kitty Doyle Units into the organisation’s social housing portfolio with support from our Community Services arm (previously LifeCare). The property consists of thirty-two independent living units and two separate cottages. 4. LIFECARE As part of the strategic planning process – assessing strengths, sector trends, growth potential and the needs of staff and clients – BaptistCare implemented a number of decisions to exit some LifeCare areas. LifeCare Employment Ventures, a supported employment service for people living with a psychiatric disability, based at Mayfield, was transitioned to another larger approved provider, Endeavour Industries, in December 2012. A long history of excellence for BCS in the provision of childcare concluded in January 2013. Operations at Northmead – a long day care centre, operated in partnership with Parramatta Baptist Church and at Auburn – a pre-school kindergarten, operated in partnership with Auburn Baptist Church, were both transferred to a strong Christian child care organisation – Integricare. I am pleased to say that both transitions were very carefully managed, with minimal impact on the children, their families and our staff. – 59 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT Microfinance Loans Scheme Expansion This past year BaptistCare has further expanded it’s no interest and low interest loans schemes, with specialised programs now operating for seniors and women escaping domestic violence. The low interest Step Up loan scheme is now available in the ACT that marks BaptistCare’s first LifeCare service in the Territory. This LifeCare program is being operated in partnership with AgedCare and is based at the Care Centre – Canberra Office in Symonston. The new specialist no-interest loan program launched for women who are escaping domestic violence was launched by the Mayor of Campbelltown City Council, Cr Sue Dobson in November, and is now assisting women in the Macarthur area and beyond to re-establish their lives. Women are able to borrow up to $2,000 to purchase bedding, furniture, white goods, moving and vehicle costs, children’s needs, and medical and dental costs. In the last financial year, BaptistCares’ microfinance loan services have exceeded $1 million worth of loans to households in need across NSW and now in the ACT. 5. BAPTIST RELATIONSHIPS During 2012-13 we have worked hard to strengthen our commitment to our Christian Foundations through partnerships at a National, State, and local level. At the National level, BaptistCare is active as part of the Baptist Care Australia network particularly following the decision to appoint an Executive Director, at the National level, to lobby our position in Canberra. We are also very active with the NSW & ACT Association of Baptist Churches, partnering with specific churches through BaptistCare Sunday and Connect Grants. BaptistCare Sunday and Promotional DVD Building on the positive response to the BaptistCare Sunday DVD productions in previous years, we again produced a DVD for use by churches on BaptistCare Sunday last November. With the focus on active engagement, a number of our regular supporters were asked to share why they were involved through praying, giving or volunteering and their responses were used as voiceovers for the DVD. Churches were sent resources, including the DVD, bulletin cover, promotional brochure and reproducible prayer information sheets highlighting how people could further pray, give and volunteer in support of our ministries. BaptistCare Connect Grants Through Connect Grants, BaptistCare partners with local Baptist Churches to reach out into the community to express Christ’s love in practical ways. Since 2002, we have distributed over $400,000 to churches in support of new initiatives. In November 2013, 7 churches received BaptistCare Connect Grants to assist in the development of community-focused ministry projects. These included Armidale District Baptist Church, Campsie Baptist Church, Dural District Baptist Church, Herons Creek – 60 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT Heritage Community Chapel, Riverside Church and Tanilba Bay Baptist Church. The full description of the community-based projects can be found in the 2013 Annual Report on page 7. www.baptistcare.org.au/aboutBCS/Publications.aspx 6. OTHER INITIATIVES & SIGNIFICANT EVENTS Staff Dedication Services For our 2013 annual Staff Dedication Services, Matthew 7:7-12 (Ask, Seek, Knock) was the theme passage of the services that were held in Canberra, Sydney, Newcastle and Leura during February and March. The four services saw many staff enjoy a time of inspiration and fellowship. As part of this year’s activity, staff and volunteers were invited to take cards that included scripture verses for ongoing encouragement. These annual services are an opportunity for staff and volunteers to come together with colleagues and commit their service and the year ahead to God. National Volunteer Week All across Australia, volunteers are recognised during National Volunteer Week (May 13–19). The theme for National Volunteer Week this year was ‘Thanks a Million’. At BaptistCare we greatly appreciate and continue to recognise the time, effort and commitment that volunteers contribute in so many ways throughout our operations. This year we presented a Certificate of Appreciation to each volunteer and held a variety of thank you lunches, dinners and celebrations. Christmas Hampers Since the retirement of Sercom in 2011, we still remain committed to the hamper tradition and so we purchased hampers from Foodbank Australia which were distributed to Community Services clients from our Community Centres in Warilla and Petersham, Darcy House and Care Centres caring for older Australians who are socially isolated. At Epping, Support Services staff also donated Christmas Hampers for residents living in our facilities at the Macquarie Park and Carlingford sites. Staff delivered them to residents on Christmas Day, covering in particular those who did not have any family able to visit. In addition, in the Hunter Region, BaptistCare Mayfield Community Centre provided more than 300 individuals and families with Christmas hampers as part of the ‘Hampers of Hope’ project, in partnership with Mayfield Baptist Church. In total over 1086 Christmas hampers were distributed to our clients, from Sydney to Newcastle. 7. THE BAPTISTCARE BOARD The pursuit of the BaptistCare mission and vision is overseen by our dedicated and hard-working Board of Directors. The Board comprises 12 volunteers – men and women elected from within our Baptist family of churches – with diversity in significant business and ministry experience. – 61 – BAPTISTCARE NSW & ACT The current Board comprises: CHAIR Graham Henderson DEPUTY CHAIR Judith Carpenter OARD MEMBERS Judith Clendinning B Robert Dunn John Church Craig Collins Catherine Ellis Corinne Glasby Ian Jackson Greg Sheridan Ian Wilson Ruth Wilson Carlingford Baptist Church Ashfield Baptist Church Northside Baptist Church Castle Hill Baptist Church Gordon Baptist Church Epping Baptist Church Northside Baptist Church Epping Baptist Church Mortdale-Oatley Baptist Church Dural Baptist Church Kiama Baptist Church Heathcote-Engadine Baptist Church The Board would like to thank Gary Lear who retired as a BCS Director during 2013. Gary served on the Board from 2007 and was a member of the Governance & Nominations Committee from 2009; for this we are enormously and forever appreciative. We thank the Board for all they do in guiding BaptistCare’s continuing growth and commitment to Christ-like mission and values. Lastly, thank you to all our members, church partners, donors, and corporate supporters for the part you play in promoting and sharing the mission of BaptistCare. Thank you for your partnership with BaptistCare in expressing Christ’s love. Ross Low Chief Executive Officer Dr Graham Henderson Chairman, Board of Directors – 62 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NEW SOUTH WALES PROPERTY TRUST Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust (“Property Trust”) is an incorporated body, separate from The Baptist Union of New South Wales. It was constituted on 14 September 1984 when a NSW Act of Parliament was proclaimed, called Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust Act 1984. In brief, the functions of the Property Trust are: 1. To act as trustee for individual Baptist Churches and District Associations, 2. To act as trustee of the Denominational Trust Funds, and 3. To administer, and in many cases to invest in its Common Fund, the proceeds of sale of Baptist properties. CHURCH PROPERTIES Under the Australian system of property holding, title to any real estate requires registration into the name or names of an incorporated body or individuals. This means that title cannot be registered in the name of any unincorporated body such as a local church. The Property Trust offers a valuable service to churches by holding title to church properties in its name, free of charge, as trustee for the purposes and objects of each local church. The trusts and objects are set out in the Act. It is the privilege and responsibility of the local church to give directions to the Property Trust on selling, buying, borrowing and leasing. These directions are given by resolutions passed in accordance with the procedure set out in the Act. The autonomy of the local church is thus preserved and other functions and activities of the church are entirely a matter for the local congregation. The Property Trust has posted some relevant information on the Baptist website www.nswactbaptists.org.au under Support & Development/Local Church Administration/Property. Copies of these documents may also be requested from the address in the Handbook, or by email to [email protected]. Neither the church nor the Property Trust is entitled to act contrary to the trusts. Among other things, this means that proceeds of sale and borrowed money can only be used for purposes sanctioned by the Act. These purposes are typically the purchase or development of other properties, and the construction or repair of buildings. On the website, you will find a Policy Document which touches another aspect, entitled “Funding a pastor’s housing allowance from the proceeds of sale of a manse”. Property dealings will invariably require the Property Trust to sign documents on behalf of the church. Three signatures to the Common Seal are necessary under the Act, so churches need to be aware that documents for signature will have to be in the hands of the solicitors acting for the Property Trust in sufficient time for the solicitors to check that they are in order for signing, for the solicitors to submit those documents to the Property Trust, and for the Secretary of the Property Trust to obtain the necessary signatures. Special arrangements have been put in place by the Property Trust to deal as expeditiously as practicable with such documentation, but the local church needs to do its part. During 2013, several members of the Property Trust met on 44 occasions to execute 115 documents on behalf of 72 churches. – 63 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NEW SOUTH WALES PROPERTY TRUST The solicitors for the Property Trust since its formation have been Messrs. Church & Grace, Sydney. We are indebted to the firm, and to Partner Mr. J.A. Creech who has been handling Property Trust matters over the past eight years, for their efficient attention to detail and for their valued advice. In compliance with its obligations as trustee, the Property Trust instructs its solicitors to inspect all documents upon which the Common Seal is to be affixed, in order that the solicitors can ensure that the Property Trust will only assume liability as trustee (i.e. limited to the assets of the local church) and that the Property Trust has been authorised, by the congregation of the church, to sign those documents. Any complex legal issues will also be referred to its solicitors for advice. Like any other trustee, the Property Trust is entitled to look to the church for reimbursement of legal expenses and out of pocket expenses incurred. The local church is also entitled to seek its own legal advice, and should obtain it. There is usually no conflict of interest between the Property Trust and the church, so it is open to the church to engage the services of the same solicitors as those who act for the Property Trust. However, the church can appoint any solicitor of its own choosing, the church of course being responsible for payment of its own legal costs, stamp duty, GST, survey fees, local Council fees and so on. DENOMINATIONAL TRUST FUNDS The Property Trust is the trustee of the following denominational trust funds: 1. Baptist Ministers Support Fund 2. Aged & Infirm Ministers Fund 3. Home Ministries Manse Fund 4. Church Extension Loan Fund 5. Legacy Fund In 2008, concern was expressed that the denominational trust funds were not being effectively used and steps were taken to invest some of the funds with the Baptist Association, which in turn, invested them with Baptist Financial Services Australia (BFSA), now the central lending body of most Australian Baptist Unions. The funds deposited with the Association bear a low interest rate, while the funds deposited by the Union with BFSA attract a normal interest rate. The difference in interest amounts will be managed by Ministry Support & Development to pay an interest subsidy to qualifying churches on their loans. The Association has given the Property Trust a charge over its deposits with BFSA. Accounting for the interest amounts, and the payment of subsidies to churches, is the responsibility of the Association’s Finance Department, in consultation with Ministry Support and Development. COMMON FUND The Property Trust maintains a Common Fund, which overcomes the need to keep separate bank accounts for each amount of money held. Further amounts, being proceeds arising from the sale of some church properties, have been placed in investments in the name of the Property Trust as trustee for the respective churches, predominantly with BFSA. – 64 – BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NEW SOUTH WALES PROPERTY TRUST INSURANCE It is the important duty of church officers and members to ensure that adequate insurance exists for cover against loss of property by fire or other hazard, and also against public liability risk and workers compensation. The Property Trust has no independent responsibility to take out insurance, and in any case, cannot do so in the absence of funds supplied by the local church. AMENDMENTS TO THE PROPERTY TRUST ACT In 2006 a Committee comprising representatives of the Property Trust and the Association, including the Honorary Legal Adviser, was established to consider requesting amendments to the Act in view of changed church practices since the Act was last amended. These amendments were approved by the July, 2011 Assembly and amending legislation was passed by the NSW Parliament in May, 2013. These amendments were circulated to churches by the Association, for their information. MEMBERSHIP OF THE PROPERTY TRUST Under the Act, seven members of the Property Trust are elected by the Assembly for 3 years on a rotational basis. The Chairman and the Secretary/Treasurer are appointed annually by the members. Currently, David Evans is the Chairman and Allan Holden is the Secretary/Treasurer. During the year, Alan Soden was appointed to the Trust to fill the vacancy caused by the retirement in 2012 of Peter Murphy. The Property Trust met formally on six occasions during the year and attendance was as follows: CHAIR David Evans 6 SECRETARY/TREASURER Allan Holden 5 BOARD MEMBERS Richard Brading 6 John Church 6 Craig Collins 4 Paul Holding 5 Alan Soden 2 of a possible 2 David Evans Chairman Allan Leslie Holden, FCA Hon Secretary – 65 – BAPTIST FINANCIAL SERVICES AUSTRALIA LIMITED For and on behalf of the Directors of Baptist Financial Services Australia Ltd (BFS), I am pleased to present this report to bring you up to date on BFS’ ministry since 31 December 2012. RESOURCING MINISTRY – LOANS BFS provided loan assistance during 2013 of $18.555 million to 35 Churches, Baptist and other Christian organisations and to Baptist pastors within NSW and ACT. FINANCIAL The last Concise Financial Report required by the Corporations Act 2001 and covering the period from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2012 was lodged with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission and is also available from our website (www.bfs.org.au). The Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2013 is in preparation, and following completion of the Audit, will be available in May 2014. At 31 December 2013, total client investor funds amounted to $241.512 million, total loans advanced were $121.015 million, and the total loans approved not yet drawn down amounted to a further $13.224 million. BFS is now in its 30th year of ministry. Total Grants assisting the work and ministry of State Baptist Unions and other Baptist ministries since 1992 exceed $9.895 million, with $286,758 being distributed to the Association of Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT in June 2013. In recognising the developments and achievements over the past 30 years of ministry, all of which we acknowledge as due to God’s leading and enabling, BFS plans to honour this milestone with a celebration event in September 2014. This event will include publication of an updated history and giving recognition to the ministry milestones of serving churches and other Christian agencies in other States - Vic/SA 10 years; Tasmania 9 years and Western Australia 8 years. Net Capital has increased to $19.710 million, including Capital contributions totalling $14.950 million received from Baptist Unions/Associations as at 31 December 2013. Capital raised from Baptist Unions has resulted in BFS attaining a level of capital that approximates the APRA Prudential Standards for Approved Deposit Taking Institutions in Australia. CLIENT SERVICES The unique BFS Visa Prepaid PayCard was released in January 2013 to provide a simple and cost effective method of managing exempt fringe benefits receipts from pastoral stipends, Public Benevolent Institutions and not-for-profit organisations. This facility is supported by a specific Class Ruling CR 2012/86 issued by the Australian Taxation Office and ensures the PayCard complies with their legal requirements. Currently more than 150 Churches/Pastors are using this service for payment of Exempt Benefits and the take-up continues at a steady pace. `iGive’, our secure online offering facility, enables individuals from congregations to make secure online offerings to their Church from a Visa or MasterCard card account, or by Direct Debit from a financial institution account without any cost to the giver or to the Church. Some 55 Churches are now registered and monthly Giving has grown – 66 – BAPTIST FINANCIAL SERVICES AUSTRALIA LTD. since October 2013 from $13,300 per month to more than $40,000 per month in February 2014. Around 77% of giving has been from Credit card and 23% by Direct Debit transfer. The PayCard and iGive services are resourced and provided by BFS as specific ministry services for the benefit and support of all Baptist churches and pastors. Clients receive a copy of `BFSNEWS’ each quarter with their account statements to keep them informed and updated about our services, and how their funds are being used in Baptist and Christian ministry. Copies of BFSNEWS are also distributed to Churches or can be accessed through our website: www.bfs.org.au. New and improved services planned for clients through 2014 include: upgrading of our internet account access service – BFSOnline, BPay View, Online Account Statements and Online Term Investment establishment. We will be reviewing our plans to develop a new GIVEWAY service to allow payments and giving to be arranged by givers to Baptist churches and Baptist agencies by credit card or by direct debit. In reviewing our plans for the development of a payment portal facility (GIVEWAY) for Baptist work in Australia, we will seek support from significant Baptist agencies in NSW and in other States to utilise this service, in order for BFS to be confident that the large investment required for development will be worthwhile and useful for ministry. STRATEGIC PRIORITIES The BFS Strategic Plan was revised in October 2013 and our Board workshopped plans for the strategic ministry over the next 3 years, whilst also reflecting on a vision for the much longer term. In considering the development of this strategic direction, the BFS Board felt it was desirable that they have the opportunity to integrate BFS plans with National and State Baptist Strategic Plans to ensure a unified holistic strategy for Baptist work. The BFS Board therefore encourages the Association to consider the development of both long-term and short-term strategies for Baptist work in NSW & ACT, and to also assist Australian Baptist Ministries in facilitating a broader vision for Baptist work and ministry across Australia. In the planning process, the Core Statements for BFS ministry were revisited and adopted as a guide and focus on how BFS seeks to contributes to resource Baptist ministry Our Purpose: • To Resource Christian Ministry Our Moral Owners: • The Baptist Churches of Australia Our Stakeholders: • Australian Baptist Ministries and Associated National Ministries • State Baptist Unions/Associations and their Ministries • Client Investors – our mature `true believers’ • Client Borrowers • BFS Staff – 67 – BAPTIST FINANCIAL SERVICES AUSTRALIA LTD. Our Vision: • • To be the Church Development Agency for Baptist Churches of Australia: - garnering and leveraging resources across the Baptist community; - being the financial services provider of first choice for our stakeholders; - significantly growing the resourcing of Baptist ministry. To be a leading Christian Financial Services Provider I n reflecting Jesus, we support local Churches, and we value and we seek to live out: •Integrity • Trust and respect in relationships • Responsible use of resources • Good governance ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The 28th Annual General Meeting was held on Wednesday 29 May 2013 when NSW Director, David Evans, retired by rotation and did not offer himself for re-election. Trevor Spicer was appointed a Director for 3 years on the nomination of the Baptist Union of Victoria, and with the approval of the Baptist Union of Australia Inc., Trevor is also the National Treasurer of the Baptist Union of Australia Inc. The significant service of David Evans was acknowledged with sincere appreciation, noting that David has held office as a Director of BIF/BFS for almost 21 years, including a term of 8 years as Board Chairman. At this annual meeting, Tyndale KSG Pty Ltd was appointed Auditor of BFS. The next Annual General Meeting of BFS will be held in May 2014. GOVERNANCE The Board acknowledges the significant obligations with which the Company must comply for the delivery of its financial services, both pursuant to Government regulations and also to the relevant Australian Standards on Governance, Risk Management and Compliance. Interaction and networking is maintained on a regular basis with other Church denominational investment and development funds providing a similar ministry to BFS, as a means of sharing and maintaining a wider ministry knowledge and awareness of ministry opportunities and services for clients. On 4 March 2013, Anina Findling (WA) resigned her position of Director BFS after a 2-year term to take up an appointment as the part-time Relationship Manager – Western Australia. Anina brings her past experience from a management role with a major Australian Bank in WA, to this role with BFS, and she is grateful for this opportunity of continuing to minister to churches and clients in WA. On 11 February 2014, Greg Holland from WA was appointed a Director on the nomination of the Baptist Churches of Western Australia Inc (BCWA). Greg is also the recently appointed Business Manager for the Baptist Churches of Western Australia Inc. – 68 – BAPTIST FINANCIAL SERVICES AUSTRALIA LTD. The Directors of the Company as at 11 February 2014 are David C Slinn (Chairman), Owen H Chew Lee (Deputy Chairman), Darryl G Collins, Alan L Soden (all from NSW), Allan K Priest (SA), Gregory P Holland (WA), Trevor L Spicer (VIC) and Peter M Horbury (VIC). Alan Soden continues as the Company Secretary. Graeme Mitchell continues as the Chief Executive Officer, with an equivalent of 10.2 full time staff supporting the ministry operations throughout Australia. GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS – APRA AND ASIC The Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) conducted public consultations and discussions through 2013 as they continue to review their respective regulations governing the operation of some 60 Religious Charitable Development Funds, such as BFS, in Australia. BFS, along with most other church denominational bodies, has been a significant contributor to this consultation and discussion process. The outcome of these reviews is expected during the first half of 2014. PAYROLL TAX Last year, we reported that the Office of State Revenue (OSR) denied an Application by BFS in NSW in 2011 for exemption from Payroll Tax. After seeking advice, and lodging an Appeal in the NSW Supreme Court, the NSW Crown Solicitor agreed to settle this matter outside of the Court, by agreeing to grant BFS the Payroll Tax Exemption from 2011. BFS gratefully acknowledges with appreciation the many churches and supporters who utilise its financial services. Their continued support has made possible the expansion and development of BFS’ ministry throughout Australia, with total assets exceeding $264 million at 31 December 2013. David Slinn Chairman – 69 – BAPTIST FOUNDATION OF NSW LIMITED For and on behalf of the Directors, I am pleased to present the Annual Report of the Company for the year ended 30 June 2013. At 30 June 2013, the number of Trusts administered by the Company or for which the Company has responsibility was 37. Beneficiaries from distributions made by the Company in 2012-13 under the terms of several Trusts included Mortdale Baptist Church, Chaplaincy Care Program, Baptist Community Services NSW and ACT, Morling College Library and a number of Morling College students. Following a review of the Members’ Register, the number of members of the Company as at 30 June 2013 was 24. Membership of the Company is available to anyone who is a member of a Baptist Church affiliated with the Baptist Union of NSW, and who gives at least $55 (including GST) by donation or subscription over a period of 4 years. Baptist churches that have given at least $275 (including GST) by donation or subscription over not more than 5 years are eligible to nominate people to be members of the Foundation. Members of the Executive Committee of the Baptist Union of New South Wales are also eligible for membership without charge on application to the Company. The Directors of the Company as at 30 June 2013 were Alan Worsley (Chairman), Matthew Duggan (Deputy Chairman and Company Secretary), Nigel Glasby, William Heinrich, Paul Holding, Norman King, and Barry O’Rourke. Sheddon and Green Partners, Chartered Accountants continue as the Company Auditor. The latest Annual Financial Report required by the Corporation Act will be contained in the financial statements (Green Book). The Foundation has brochures available to all churches about how they and the Foundation can work together to provide ongoing support for ministry of the gospel. Copies of the information brochure are available from the Secretary. The Board would appreciate the opportunity to extend the work of the Foundation. Enquiries are welcome from anyone who would like to know more of the work or would seek further involvement. Contact should be made with the Company Chairman (Tel 02 9659 6679) or by writing to the Foundation at PO Box 1261 North Sydney 2059. The Board is grateful to God for His faithfulness in providing wisdom, support and guidance for the Directors to enable them to carry out their responsibilities. We are also grateful for the generosity of the benefactors that has enabled the Foundation to provide practical assistance and encouragement to others in their ministries. Alan Worsley Chairman – 70 – BAPTIST INSURANCE MANAGEMENT LIMITED ORGANISATIONAL CHANGES During the year, it was necessary to revise the constitution of the company in line with changes to the constitution for the Association of Churches NSW & ACT. A new Board of Directors was formed comprising the new members of the Finance Audit Compliance and Legal Committee of the Association. We are delighted that Graham Warner will also join the Board in 2014, as he has extensive insurance experience over many years including as the Victorian Insurance Ombudsman. Whilst retired, Graham will continue to undertake an active role with the Board of Baptist Insurance Services (formerly Australian Baptist Insurance Scheme) and his involvement will provide a useful link between our Board and the broader National Board. INSURANCE MANAGER Tim Williams continues in the role as the Insurance Manager and is the main contact with churches for insurance issues. Tim’s help in servicing the insurance requirements of our churches including enquiries and claims is much appreciated. INSURANCE RENEWALS Despite Australia’s ongoing penchant for weather-related natural disasters, the 2013 policy renewal process resulted in modest premium rises with the insurance market remaining reasonably competitive. Increases were kept under 5%, except in cases of significant property revaluations where a cap of 15% continues to apply. PROPERTY VALUATIONS The new five-year valuation program agreed between the national insurance office and Aon Valuation Services in 2012 is progressing. All insurance constituents owning property will be valued within three years and desk updates provided annually. This year (2014) marks the third year of onsite valuations under this new program. SAFE MINISTRIES It is the responsibility of all churches and groups within the association to create ministry spaces that are safe for all vulnerable people, not just children and youth. We actively promote the ‘Creating Safe Spaces’ training that offers information and practical insight in assisting churches and groups fulfil this very important responsibility. There are 30 ‘Creating Safe Spaces’ workshops already booked in or in the process of being organised for 2014, and Judy Henderson continues to receive enquiries from many different churches for additional courses. It is recommended that the workshop be attended every 3 years. SUPPORT FOR BAPTIST MINISTRY During the last financial year, Baptist Insurance Management Limited supported the communal ministries of the NSW & ACT Baptist Churches through grants totalling $740,128. David Slinn Chairman – 71 – BEDFORD COLLEGE LIMITED EXPANSION – SECOND CAMPUS 2013 was an exciting and historic year for Bedford and its ministry with the purchase and fit-out of a second campus. This was the outcome of a comprehensive process during 2012, which included an initial Strategic Planning Day, and then the commissioning and analysis of separate Market Research and Business Case reports. After evaluating a number of properties in early 2013, the Board decided that 2 Columbia Court at Norwest (Baulkham Hills) was most suitable and approved the commencement of negotiations. Contracts were exchanged on 7 June 2013 for a price of $6.2M with a 90-day settlement period. The Development Application was lodged the same day. Despite the very short timeframe for approvals and fit-out, all was ready for a very successful Open Day on 18 January 2014. Classes commenced on 4 February – 2 business classes and 2 childcare classes, with a total of 71 students, 50% more than the estimates in the Business Case. Mention must be made of the outstanding contributions made by Christina Scaife (Principal/CEO) and Ian Gray (Project Manager) who worked tirelessly together to ensure that the Norwest Campus would be ready in time. Grateful thanks also go to the National Institute of Economic and Industry Research, Grant Thornton Australia, Hanna Newman Associates, Thompson Adsett Architects, McKenzie Group and Bedford Board and staff. The Norwest Campus was purchased with the College’s accumulated cash reserves. The cash reserves also covered about half of the extra $4M expenditure required with the other half coming from a loan with Baptist Financial Services. Extra income is being received from a warehouse building on the site that is being leased out. Further expansion of Bedford remains under active consideration. Ongoing dialogue with Morling College and Assembly Council will remain an important part of the process, as will the development of an Agency Memorandum of Understanding with Assembly Council. There is potential for further staged building development at the Norwest campus. Additional courses and qualifications and new delivery modes are also being investigated. OVERVIEW OF 2013 OPERATIONS All Board meetings have commenced with a devotion and prayer. At each meeting, we have also discussed a section of the publication “Essential Standards of Ministry Governance” by Gary Williams of Christian Management Australia. Despite the extra demands of establishing another campus, the Glebe Campus continued to operate smoothly. In particular, Bedford coped well with new requirements from the industry regulator, Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). Enrolments in Business numbered 60, including 5 starters in April and 7 in July. Childcare enrolments were 140, including 20 starters in April and 19 in July, with 8 being international students. Financial results for the year, as yet unaudited, were an operational surplus of $1.24M and a non-operational surplus of $0.08M giving a total surplus of $1.32M. – 72 – BEDFORD COLLEGE LTD DENOMINATIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS Significant donations were made to the 2013 Budget of the Baptist Churches of NSW & ACT ($200K), Revive ($50K) and Hope Street ($25K). In addition, some 20 Childcare students made an immense contribution to Revive as volunteers with the children’s programs. In June, Jamie Freeman concluded as the Chaplain and Liam Miller from H3O Church at Dee Why was appointed to this part-time position. He has continued to provide spiritual encouragement and support to students and staff and to promote awareness of Bedford’s ministry amongst the churches. Liam regularly contributes to Together magazine on behalf of Bedford. THE BOARD AND STAFF Following are the names of those who served on the Board during the year, the number of Board meetings they attended and were eligible to attend. John Morrison, Chairperson 7 Paul Holding, Company Secretary 6 Geoffrey Brooke5 Judith Carpenter5 Graham Jones7 Yvette Karwaj6 Alan Rice6 Peter Smith6 Christina Scaife, Principal/CEO 7 The average number of staff during the year was 17 (Full Time Equivalents of approximately 13). This will increase in 2014 with extra appointments needed for the Norwest Campus. GRADUATION AND STUDENT AWARDS The 2013 Graduation was held at the Wesley Conference Centre on 12 December with the Chaplain, Liam Miller, delivering the address. The following awards were presented on the night. • LORNA M CHARLES AWARD FOR CONSISTENT APPLICATION (BUSINESS) – Rebecca Issa • LESTER AND GLADYS LEVY AWARD FOR CONSISTENT APPLICATION (CHILDCARE) – Daniel Bagala • MARGARET J KNAPP AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT (BUSINESS) – Sara Garnam • BAPTIST FINANCIAL SERVICES AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT (CHILDCARE) – Eliza Levy • RONALD E WALKER AWARD FOR STUDENT OF THE YEAR (BUSINESS) – Maressa Rodriguez • BAPTIST UNION OF NSW & ACT AWARD FOR STUDENT OF THE YEAR (CHILDCARE) – Enna Churchill • LEVINA DONALDSON AWARD FOR COLLEGE COMMUNITY SERVICE – Mary Ly John Morrison Chairperson – 73 – HOPESTREET On behalf of the board and staff of HopeStreet, we have pleasure in reporting on the work of HopeStreet. The past year has seen HopeStreet transition from a ministry organisation into a public benevolent institution. We have accomplished this while remaining strongly linked to the Association of Baptist Churches in NSW & ACT. It was a very significant year with the launching of our new strategic direction and the celebration of thirty years of Baptist ministry in Woolloomooloo and surrounding areas including our partnership with Woolloomooloo Baptist Church. We are committed to putting faith into action by providing compassionate care to marginalised inner-city residents. Hope is found in the most unlikely places, and in the most desperate human situations. LEADERSHIP In April, the Board approved a new strategic plan for HopeStreet. Our vision is “A just and compassionate inner-city Sydney, where we can all fulfil our potential and have a safe place to call home.” Our mission is “Bringing justice, compassion and hope by working alongside people in need in their individual, community and structural contexts.” As we pursue our vision and mission, we are building the future capacity of HopeStreet, providing clear leadership and developing systems and processes to ensure best practice. We invite you to share with us in this exciting journey. Our dedicated Board oversees the vision and mission. The Board comprises Paul Beckmann (Chair), Rev Rod Benson (Company Secretary), Andrew Cork, Dr Ian Jackson, Kristine Morrison and Karen Sell. The board thanks Gary Lear and Warren Cardwell who retired as directors during 2013. We thank the Board for all they do in guiding HopeStreet to serve the mission of God among the people of inner-city Sydney. This year saw the appointment of the company’s first Chief Executive Officer, Warren Cardwell, after an extensive recruitment process. He leads 23 staff and more than 30 volunteers devoted to delivering services and expanding the work of HopeStreet. Warren, who had served as a Board member since 1999, came into the role after working in retail in various positions up to senior retail manager for the past 30 years. Rev Andrew Dawkins left HopeStreet as its Director (CEO) late in 2012 after serving four years of dedicated service. We thank Andrew for his important contribution and we wish him well on his return to local church ministry. PROGRAMMES HopeStreet focuses on five key areas. Community Development and Homeless Support engages at street level to provide emergency aid, crisis intervention, counselling, advocacy and system change, active community care and much more. These initiatives reach more than 1,000 inner-city community members each year. Some of these people are related to or have direct links to families and people in our Baptist movement. Inner City Gambling Help has operated since 1999 and is funded by the NSW Government Responsible Gambling Fund. This programme provides evidence-based therapy with structured sessions delivered by qualified counsellors. – 74 – HOPESTREET The Terrace provides safe and supported accommodation for up to six adult men. The support given assists in breaking the cycle of homelessness, unemployment and other issues. Women’s Space supports female street-based sex workers in the inner city. This programme seeks to identify and support women who choose to make a positive change in their life situation. Employment Training assists long-term unemployed people to build skills and capacity to return to permanent employment. HopeStreet has reintroduced our Urban Education programme where people in groups can explore guided walks, sleep outs and volunteering opportunities. Last year saw HopeStreet engaging with ‘Plunge’ students from Morling College as part of their field education. HopeStreet has also introduced Health and Wellbeing initiatives to support our programmes. We now offer financial counselling for clients at risk of problem gambling. Late in 2013 seed funding was provided by the WCTU Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Counselling, and plans are underway for other counselling services. In March 2013, HopeMonth was launched to connect friends and families over a meal to raise funds and awareness for marginalised people. This initiative was supported by a growing group of people and a live broadcast and sponsorship by Hope 103.2 FM. The Ride to the Top for nearly 20 years has raised considerable funds for HopeStreet’s work. This tireless group of people cycle from Sydney to Mount Kosciusko. Our sincere thanks go to the many people who have participated and assisted in this event. Late last year we saw the launch of a free mobile phone application that is being developed to give homeless people access to services in Sydney. Our Christmas gift hamper programme was a great opportunity to assist people in our community over this important period. Much needed food stuff and small gifts were provided by a range of people. We particularly thank the generous support of many of our churches and individual, companies who donated the tote, time and energy in this event. We were able to distribute over 450 hampers across our clients and community. NEW TOOLS For many years, we have used buildings in Woolloomooloo either owned by Baptist Care, Housing NSW or the City of Sydney. As part of the strategic plan, a decision was made to sell the Campbell Street property and use funds that were part of the former Burton Street Baptist Church to provide a new community hub centre as well as purchase a permanent site for our Women’s’ Space work. Two new facilities, the HopeCentre and the Women’s Space complex, were opened on 10th November by local MP Alex Greenwich and Dr Alan Rice, Chair of the Assembly Council, before a gathering of more than 300 people. One of the rooms was dedicated – 75 – HOPESTREET to Rev Norm and Marjorie Nix in recognition of the work they have given to the work of HopeStreet and Woolloomooloo Baptist Church over many years. At the opening ceremony, Norm Nix recalled that, back in the early 1980s, Rev Reg Pope said, “Denominations had closed their doors in inner-city areas. This was true in our own city. He asked this disturbing question: Is it right that we should neglect or even turn our backs on these areas, frequently areas of much need? He said ‘it cannot be justified’.” Norm reminded us that, at the beginning of His ministry, Jesus entered the Synagogue on the Sabbath and read from the Scriptures these words from Isaiah 61:1-2: The Spirit of the Lord is on me, Because He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners And recovery of sight for the blind, To release the oppressed, To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour. The first priority of Jesus was serving the poor. This is our passion too. SUPPORT We sincerely thank our own staff, all volunteers and the individuals, churches and Baptist agencies who have stood with us in prayer and given support in many ways over the past year. Your contribution has been outstanding and we could not operate without such strong support. HopeStreet values the continued support of individuals, churches, agencies and our Baptist movement as we continue to follow Jesus as people of salt and light in this part of Sydney. Warren C. Cardwell Chief Executive Officer Paul Beckmann Chair, Board of Directors – 76 – 2014 CHURCH PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT BUDGET Church Partnership Support Budget PROPOSED BUDGET FROM 1/1/2014 TO 31/12/2014 12-month Budget Jan to Dec 2014 % of Total Church Partnership Support Contributions 1,600,000 100.0% Total Contributions 1,600,000 100.0% Pastoral development 176,774 11.0% Youth and Young Adults 105,149 6.6% Children’s ministry 49,908 3.1% Church development 99,637 6.2% Regional ministries 24,895 1.6% Church planting 142,932 8.9% Global Interaction 164,046 10.3% Morling College 212,000 13.3% Tinsley Institute 35,000 2.2% Australian Baptist Ministries 86,000 5.4% Denominational management 34,003 2.1% Finance and administration 201,459 12.6% Communications 133,214 8.3% Standards 94,213 5.9% Events 40,770 2.5% Total Allocations 1,600,000 100.0% Surplus/(Deficit) - INCOME ALLOCATIONS – 77 – NOTICES OF MOTION SUBMITTED BY: P astor Arthur Mark Hall Lake Cargelligo Baptist Church MOTION 1: That the Continuing Accreditation/Recognition Program be immediately scrapped. NOTE TO MOTION 1 (BY MOVER OF MOTION) The review of this program has shown limited value and support by significant numbers of pastors as implemented. It is not meeting the actual needs of many pastors nor is it implemented in a way that is encouraging them in their ministry. If there is a real need - it is for something that provides true pastoral support on an individual basis. It is counter productive to have a scheme that is perceived to be punitive and lacks the flexibility that was intended of but not implemented. One size does not fit all - especially in the circumstances of bi-vocational, rural and remote pastorates. MOTION 2: (IF MOTION 1 IS NOT PASSED) That it be embedded in the conditions of the CAP/CRP programs that refusal to participate in the program will not be grounds in and of itself for loss of Accreditation/Recognition. NOTE TO MOTION (BY MOVER OF MOTION) This is the wish of over 80% of pastors who responded to the review of CAP. MOTION 3: That the Association’s Assembly Council, together with the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust, immediately begin all processes necessary to disestablish the Property Trust and return all property deeds to legally established Property Trusts of the individual member churches choice. NOTE TO MOTION 3 (BY MOVER OF MOTION) It should not continue to be the case that the Association, through the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust, has usurped control of the property of the member churches. This is a major issue that has been hidden from churches and is in my opinion, being used to exert control over the churches by the Association. I do not believe that this could have been the original intention of the Property Trust when established - but it is certainly the bottom line effect of the current situation. This must be resolved as I believe the current situation is in fundamental opposition to the clear teaching of Scripture regarding respect for the property of others. It was not the intention of Lake Cargelligo Baptist Church - nor do I believe the intention of the large majority of Baptist churches to “give up” their property rights to the Association via having the Baptist Property Trust hold their title deeds. If there is a better way to address this issue, I would be happy to consider having this motion modified to achieve this aim. – 78 – NOTICES OF MOTION NOTE TO MOTION 3: (BY GEOFFREY MOORE, HON LEGAL ADVISER CONSTITUTION, COMMERCIAL & PROPERTY) NSW Parliament would have to make the change proposed. NOTE TO MOTION 3: (BY DAVID EVANS, CHAIRMAN, BAPTIST PROPERTY TRUST) The primary role of the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust is to act as trustee of Baptist churches’ properties, as detailed in the Baptist Churches of New South Wales Property Trust Act 1984, passed by the NSW Parliament. This Act is effectively similar to Acts for other denominational property trusts, including the Anglicans, Presbyterians and Uniting Churches. The Property Trust Act was enacted after considered decisions of the Executive Council and General Assemblies of the Baptist Union in the early 1980s, in order to separate the trustee role from the pastoral oversight role held by the Union since 1919. Members of the Property Trust are appointed by the Assembly on a three year rotating basis, thereby maintaining their accountability to Assembly, and therefore the Baptist denomination. The Property Trust does not believe “the Association through the NSW Baptist Property Trust has usurped control of the property of the member churches.” (original wording). It can only act in property matters when authorised to do so by a properly constituted meeting of the local church. The Association, formerly the Union, can only direct the Property Trust in a limited number of situations, notably where a church has dissolved, or reduced in number to less than ten members. In the unlikely event that the Property Trust was disestablished, as proposed in the Motion under consideration, the private trustees would be expected to hold the church properties under similar trusts (rules) and they could incur significant personal liability if they acted outside these trusts. As private trustees invariably die, or often move away from a church, there will be additional costs incurred in appointing new trustees. This is the situation we had over one hundred years ago, which the Baptist Union overcame by adopting the trustee role in 1919. – 79 – EXTRACTS FROM CONSTITUTION OF BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW & ACT RELATING TO MOTIONS BRINGING MATTERS BEFORE ASSEMBLY 8.5(u) Subject to the next paragraph, any affiliated church, either council of the Association, or any affiliated group may bring a matter before an Assembly. 8.5(v)Subject to the Guidelines for Assembly meetings as set out in Schedule ‘B’, for the matter to be considered by an Assembly the affiliated church, the council or the affiliated group shall give not less than 2 months’ notice in writing before the date of the next Assembly of the matter to be considered with the notice being forwarded to the Secretary to Assembly Council. 8.5(w)Any motion arising from such notice may be moved at Assembly by a person nominated by the affiliated church, the council or the affiliated group (as the case may be) provided that person is a member of Assembly. GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCT OF ASSEMBLY MEETINGS RELATING TO MOTIONS (AS CONTAINED IN SCHEDULE B) E. All proposed motions shall be reduced to writing. F. Only members of Assembly may move a motion. G. Speaking to a motion Normally, i. the mover of a motion will not speak for more than 10 minutes ii.any speaker for or against the motion, including the original mover speaking in reply, will not speak for more than 5 minutes iii.apart from the original mover of a motion speaking in reply, no person shall speak more than once including the mover of an amendment, and iv. Assembly may grant an extension of time to a speaker H.The order in which members of Assembly speak will be determined by the chair. The chair shall ensure, as far as possible, that a proportionate number of speakers are heard for and against the motion being considered. The chair will be mindful that the agenda of Assembly should not be delayed unreasonably I.The chair may utilise a system of sounding a warning for speakers prior to the expiration of the time allotted under these guidelines. J.The chair shall be entitled to make the call as to when to when sufficient discussion has taken place and to put the motion. – 80 – EXTRACTS FROM CONSTITUTION OF BAPTIST CHURCHES OF NSW & ACT RELATING TO MOTIONS AMENDMENTS TO MOTIONS K. Proposed amendments to motions shall be reduced to writing. L. Proposed amendments will be dealt with one at a time. M.Voting Unless otherwise provided in the constitution or these guidelines, the method of voting will be either on the voices or by show of hands as the chair shall decide. N. Vote by Poll A poll may be demanded by at least 10 members and when required the poll shall be conducted in the manner the chair directs; the result of the poll shall be deemed a resolution of Assembly. O.Where no poll is demanded a declaration by the chair that a resolution has been carried shall be sufficient evidence of the fact without proof of the number or proportion of votes recorded in favour or against the particular resolution. – 81 – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – 2012/2013 The following is for presentation to the 146th Annual Assembly (AGM) – 29 March 2014 The complete Financial Statements will be made available online prior to the Assembly at www.assembly.nswactbaptists.org.au Limited hard copies will be available at the Assembly. Baptist Union of New South Wales For year ended 31 Dec 2013 HopeStreet For year ended 31 Dec 2013 Morling College For year ended 31 Dec 2013 Morling Foundation Limited For year ended 31 Dec 2013 Mission Funds For year ended 31 Dec 2013 Baptist Business College Ltd (Bedford) For year ended 31 Dec 2012* Baptist Foundation of NSW Limited For year ended 30 June 2013 Baptist Insurance Management Limited For year ended 30 June 2013 Baptist Financial Services Australia Ltd For year ended 31 Dec 2012* Trust Accounts of Baptist Union of NSW For year ended 30 April 2013 Baptist Women of NSW & ACT For year ended 30 June 2013 * The Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2013 are not available until the end of April 2014 due to timing of the audits and the Board meetings to sign-off on the accounts. – 82 – APPENDIX 1.1 BAPTIST MINISTRY CENTRE BUDGET 2014 GROUP SUMMARY (including funds) Income Contributions Contributions - CPSB Contributions - affiliated groups Contributions - BFS Contributions - Intercompany Total contributions Sale of goods Insurance income Kiah Ridge income Other income Interest income - external Interest income - intercompany Management fee received - external Management fee - intercompany Investment income Conference and event income Other Income Total other income Total Income Expense Distributions Distributions paid to affiliated groups New start grants paid Regional grants Other grants Distributions - intercompany Total distributions Ministry costs Cost of sales Staffing costs Administration expenses Depreciation and amortisation Interest expense - external Interest expense - intercompany Management fees - intercompany Rent expense Insurance - premiums paid Insurance - claims paid Other administration expenses Total administration expenses Property costs Total expenses Expected surplus Surplus excluding non cash items TOTAL Jan - Dec 14 1,600,000 347,868 977,500 966,000 3,891,368 358,960 2,300,000 657,808 312,638 742,000 19,800 182,000 90,000 175,050 390,540 1,912,028 9,120,164 247,000 100,000 20,000 42,000 966,000 1,375,000 1,677,696 121,120 1,251,050 231,242 661,100 742,000 182,000 348,348 1,121,142 320,000 663,157 4,268,989 164,980 8,858,835 261,329 402,572 Capital expenditure Land and buildings Property, plant and equipment Computer equipment and software Furniture and fittings TOTAL Surplus excluding non cash items after capital expenditure – 83 – 11,000 19,000 10,000 40,000 362,572 APPENDIX 1.2 BAPTIST MINISTRY CENTRE BUDGET 2014 OPERATIONAL SUMMARY Income Contributions Contributions - CPSB Contributions - Affiliated groups Contributions - BFS Contributions - Intercompany Total contributions Sale of goods Other income Interest Income - external Interest income - intercompany LSL administration fee Management fee received - external Management fee - intercompany Investment income Conference and event income Other Income Total other income Total Income Expense Distributions Distributions paid to Affiliated groups New start grants paid Regional grants Other grants Total distributions Ministry costs Cost of sales Staffing costs Administration expenses Depreciation and amortisation Interest expense - intercompany Rent expense Other administration expenses Total administration expenses Property costs Total expenses Expected deficit Surplus excluding non cash items TOTAL Jan - Dec 14 1,600,000 347,868 7,500 516,000 2,471,368 354,160 88,000 112,000 90,000 19,800 182,000 30,000 175,050 332,300 999,150 3,824,678 247,000 100,000 20,000 2,000 369,000 1,677,696 118,720 805,417 183,137 40,000 324,288 356,763 904,188 57,300 3,932,321 (107,643) 45,494 Capital expenditure Land and buildings Property, plant and equipment Computer equipment and software Furniture and fittings TOTAL Surplus excluding non cash items after capital expenditure – 84 – 10,000 17,500 10,000 37,500 7,994 NOTES – 85 – POSTAL LOCATION PHONE FAX WEB PO Box 122 Epping NSW 1710 Level 1 3 Carlingford Road Epping NSW 2121 02 9868 9200 02 9868 9201 www.nswactbaptists.org.au