Wider Church Involvements

From the 1970's to the present the church has been aware of an increasing erosion of middle class support. Many young people, brought up in the church, have opted out.

Within the Catholic Church there had been a sharp decline in religious vocations, and, as a consequence, an increase in lay involvement in local congregations. With the mechanisation of farming, and diminishing populations, all churches have been losing out in rural areas.

Responses to the challenge of declining numbers have ranged from the setting up of All-Age Bible Schools to ministry to marginalised sub-groups and to industry, through ITIM. The development of intentional communities, like the House of the Gentle Bunyip in Melbourne and the Breakwater Baptist Community in Geelong, represent an alternative response in an increasingly fragmented society. Additional initiatives, involving sub-groups within the church, have been John Smith's God Squad and the Festival of Light, which has drawn support from conservative Christians concerned with what they have seen as the erosion of family values.

The advent of the Whitlam government in the early 1970's led to an increased focus on Aboriginal issues, which coincided with the emergence of Aboriginal leaders within the churches. In time debate on the Aboriginal question came to focus on land rights.

In more recent years, and particularly within the Anglican Church, the ecclesiastical issue that has become part of the public agenda has been the ordination of women. More serious even than this issue have been the charges levelled, from within the church itself, of violence and sexual misconduct on the part of Christians. A number of clergy and lay leaders have already been arraigned on charges of sexual abuse.¹

DAWSON ST.

GRAEME CHAPMAN, 1975-1983

Graeme Chapman M.A., B.D., Dip.Ed. was inducted into the ministry of the Dawson St. congregation on the 1st of February by Don Smith, Director of the Department of Home Missions and Evangelism. The charge to the congregation was given by Gordon Scambler, State Conference President. 260 attended a luncheon in the

Lower Civic Hall following the induction, where greetings were brought by the Mayor, clerical representatives and lay leaders in the congregation.²

Future Focus

The following week Chapman commented:

I have discovered in the short time I have been with you that Mr. Hunting's stress on prayer, his emphasis on the centrality of love and his calling you to responsible Christian living has not gone unheeded. . . . I want you to regard me as being always available. I am as close as your feet, your car or your phone. . . . We face difficult but challenging times. This is the sort of atmosphere in which God works wonders. I feel that there are great things ahead of us. To fulfil our God-given destiny we need to work together in the power of the Spirit.³

The next week he continued in the same vein:

While I have been with you for only two weeks, I have already become aware of a great expectancy among our membership. It is as if you are expecting God to do great things in the near future, and you are looking to me to lead you into the blessing.⁴

Peter Burnham DCE Director

On the 22nd of February Peter Burnham, who had been chaplain at Ballarat High, was inducted at the Monbulk campsite as the Director of the Department of Christian Education within Churches of Christ in Victoria.⁵

Begonia Festival

Chapman was preacher at the combined Churches of Christ Begonia Festival Service in the Upper Civic Hall on the 29th of February.⁶

At Homes

Keen to get to know members and contacts, Graeme and Helen Chapman worked with church leaders to organise 16 "at home" evenings at the manse, involving, in all, 290 people.

Two Significant Decisions

Shortly after the induction, and the annual meeting, at which Peter Mitchell was elected board chairman and Haydn Anderson secretary, the Board met together at Hepburn Springs to consider future plans. At this seminar two major decision were made. It was decided to introduce a programme of small groups and to call an associate minister.⁷

Geoff Rowcroft

On the 4th of March the church was alerted to the fact that the officers had been in touch with a student who would graduate at the end of the year. The board's advice to the church ran:

It is important that the man engaged be able to work closely with Mr. Chapman. With this in mind, our minister has recommended a man who graduates from Woolwich this year. Geoff Rowcroft, president of the student body, would be eminently suitable. He has been approached tentatively and has said that he would very favourably consider an invitation from us to engage in an associate ministry. He is a man loyal to the Scriptures, possessed of good business ability, and a pleasing personality. He has done excellent work at the university city of Armidale in NSW to which he was flown each weekend last year.⁸

On the 17th of March the church decided to call Rowcroft to an associate ministry at Dawson St./Mt. Clear from the beginning of 1977. He would be responsible for Mt. Clear, for Youth work at Dawson St. and would share gospel services with Mr. Chapman.⁹ In August the church learned that Rowcroft had become engaged to Elaine Thrupp and that, at the beginning of 1977, they would be welcoming two people to ministry.¹⁰ Geoff and Elaine were married on December 11th.¹¹

In anticipation of a part-time ministry appointment at Mt. Clear, enthusiasm began to build. A community kindergarten was planned and working bees were organised to paint the church.¹²

Small Groups

At that time leadership sessions for potential small group leaders, involving about 40 people, were under way. Following training sessions for potential group leaders, members at Dawson St. and Mt. Clear were allocated to groups. These groups met for the first time on the 10th of April.¹³ In all, 150 of a total of 220 members were involved. The small group programme concluded for the year with a group celebration, attended by over 200 in the York St. Youth Hall.¹⁴

Further Initiatives

In addition, under Helen Chapman's initiative, play groups for mothers and young children, the first in Ballarat, were begun¹⁵ and board members attended an Advanced Church Growth Seminar with Win Arn in Melbourne.¹⁶

Koinonia

In July the name of the church paper was changed from Evangel to Koinonia. It was considered that Koinonia, a Greek word that spoke of an intimate sharing with

God and others, appropriately symbolised a new ethos the Chapmans were bringing.¹⁷

New Emphasis

From the beginning of his ministry Chapman brought a new emphasis, which came increasingly to characterise his approach. In July he argued that

We cannot enjoy spiritual health without first learning to accept and love ourselves. We must acknowledge ourselves for what we really are, accepting what we find, and then, coming full circle, loving the new, potentially less acceptable self that we have found.¹⁸

Services Taped

By mid-year services were being taped for shut-ins and for those who were absent from services.¹⁹

Community Kindergarten

Mt. Clear purchased a fish shop at the rear of their building at 2 Dallas Ave with the aim of developing it into a community kindergarten with a grant from the government. Mrs. Edith Henderson also sold land to the church for a very small financial return to add to the land available for the project.²⁰ During 1976 the church began devising plans to alter the shop and to seek financial assistance from the government.²¹

Chapman Preaches at Federal Conference

Chapman attended the Federal Conference in Brisbane in September, where he preached in the City Hall on the 16th²² on "A Vision of Unity."²³ Joh Bjelke-Petersen was interviewed during the service.²⁴

Church Growth

In early October Chapman indicated that the church would focus its effort on Church Growth during 1977. From October onwards he included articles on Church Growth in Koinonia and focussed on the issue in addresses.²⁵

Ballarat CAE Bible Studies

During October Chapman also took a series of Bible studies for the Ballarat CAE Christian Fellowship.²⁶

College of the Bible Graduation

On November 19th Chapman was guest preacher at the College of the Bible Graduation service at Blackman Hall at the Hawthorn Institute.²⁷ One of the graduates on that occasion was Cheryl Johnson, from Dawson St. Cheryl spoke at the evening service on November 21st.²⁸ In her final year Cheryl had been student president.²⁹ In the New Year she took up an appointment as minister at East Keilor.³⁰ The church at Dawson St. maintained contact with Cheryl and kept members informed of her progress.³¹

Invitation to Critique the Sermon

It was also in November that Chapman invited the congregation to help him preach more effectively by critiquing his sermons.³²

Creative Services

The Chapmans were keen to develop more creative services. In pursuance of this objective board members, in November, visited Melbourne churches that were experimenting with contemporary styles of worship. Churches visited were Frankston, Berwick, Doncaster, Blackburn and Cheltenham.³³

Resignations from the Sunday School

In the latter part of 1976 Neil Reed retired as secretary of the Dawson St. Sunday School after 36 years service.³⁴ At the end of the year Keith Davies, Sunday School superintendent resigned because of a work transfer to Melbourne.³⁵

Church Growth Seminar

The church conducted a church growth seminar on the 12th of February, 1977, in which Don Smith, of the Department of Home Missions and Evangelism, participated. Geoff Rowcroft was also involved.³⁶

Geoff Rowcroft Inducted at Mt. Clear

On February 13th Geoff Rowcroft was inducted into the ministry of the Dawson St. and Mt, Clear Churches of Christ by Don Smith.³⁷ Geoff had been a work study officer with Namco before entering Woolwich, from which he graduated in 1976. One of Chapman's former students, Geoff Rowcroft had, as a student minister, helped commence two new churches and had worked with students at the University city of Armidale in New South Wales, where he had been appointed Churches of Christ chaplain to the University of New England. His specific responsibilities in Ballarat were Mt. Clear and youth work at Dawson St. Geoff's wife Elaine, who was originally from Roma, had worked as an administrator with the Sydney YMCA and with Christian Youth Travel, when she had helped organise concerts for international

artists.³⁸ The Rowcrofts moved into a rented home at 2 Heather Ave., Mt. Clear.³⁹

Magarey Lectures

The Rowcrofts had hardly settled in before the Chapmans left for Adelaide, where Graeme was to give the Magarey Lectures to the South Australian ministers at their annual refresher. He dealt with the history and future of Churches of Christ.⁴⁰ In two and a half days Chapman delivered 6 lectures, each of which extended from 1 to 2 hours.⁴¹

Leadership Training at Belmont

Before leaving for Adelaide the Chapmans visited Belmont, Geelong, where they outlined the development of the groups programme at Dawson St. As a consequence of the visit the Belmont church asked them to run a 6 week programme of group leadership training, which they conducted later in the year.⁴²

Board Developments

Early in 1977 board members and their wives met at Mount Clear to plan church growth goals for 1977. At the annual meeting on April 3rd Colin Hocking, of Mt. Clear, was elected chairman of the joint board of the two churches and Jim Bridson secretary.

Gathering Momentum

By that time Helen Chapman, who was also co-ordinating the small groups, had taken over as superintendent of the Sunday School.⁴³ After a year's operation, the play groups were catering for 50 families and 35 children were attending the pre-school centre at Mt. Clear. Furthermore, an amount of $300 had been given to assist bush fire victims.⁴⁴

Community Aid Booklet

Early in 1977 the Mt. Clear church, under the Rowcrofts' leadership, prepared a Community Aid booklet, sponsored by local businesses, to provide information for residents of Mt. Clear and Mt. Helen and to bring the church before the community.⁴⁵

Council of Churches

Early in 1977 Graeme Chapman and Peter Mitchell were elected to the executive of the Ballarat Council of Churches.⁴⁶

Changes at Mt. Clear

In May, 1977 Mt. Clear leaders began exploring the possibility of format changes to services. After discussing the issue of gospel services, they decided that it was not

yet appropriate to introduce change. They did decide, however, to run a family service on the 17th of July. This introductory service was delayed until November 6th.⁴⁷ It was intended that such services would be conducted every three months.⁴⁸ By August a playgroup had also been established.⁴⁹

Publication

At the 1977 Victorian-Tasmanian conference Graeme Chapman was interviewed as one of four members of "The Pen Club", ministers who had written books recently published by Vital. Chapman's publication, Your Church: Where to From Here?, explored the theology of the Church Growth movement as it related to Churches of Christ.⁵⁰

Interest Groups

Late in April it was indicated that the church would be forming a number of interest groups. Helen Chapman was behind this initiative.⁵¹ These included men and women's fitness groups and groups interested in drama, needlework and craft, mechanics, gardening and woodwork.⁵²

Creative Living Centre

Helen Chapman was also responsible for two further initiatives. The first was the hosting of a Creative Living Centre. Up until this time the handicapped had been able to meet at the Red Cross centre for craft activities. The closure of the centre left a big gap in the lives of the people who attended. Syd Robinson, whose daughter was handicapped, visited a Creative Living Centre in Bendigo, and, impressed by what he saw, advertised his intention of developing a similar centre in Ballarat. He called a public meeting of interested people. Helen saw the advertisement, attended the meeting and offered Dawson Street's hall. This began a fruitful partnership between Syd Robinson, a Uniting Church layperson, and the Dawson Street Church. It was not long before numbers reached 80 and had to be restricted. In time, the centre became a model for similar projects in other cities and towns. The centre met for the first time on Tuesday the 24th of May.⁵³

Parent Effectiveness Training

The second initiative taken by Helen Chapman was to organise a Parent Effectiveness Training Course for the Ballarat Community at the church. The course was conducted during September.⁵⁴ It was so successful that the Ballarat School of Mines took over the initiative as one of its TAFE offerings, one of the original participants becoming the presenter.⁵⁵

Combined Board Seminar

Early in his second year Graeme Chapman, who recognised that each of the Ballarat Churches of Christ had members in all sectors of Ballarat and who was also aware that the combined membership of the four churches was in excess of 600, wrote to each of the boards suggesting that they explore the possibility of amalgamation, of selling their properties and relocating. The larger congregation that would result would be serviced by a team of 4 ministers, each with their own special gifts and ministry areas. The matter was discussed at the Regional Board Meeting on the 14th February, 1977.⁵⁶ The boards met together for a seminar at Colin Hocking's home on the 14th of May.⁵⁷ Nothing came of the suggestion, though all churches committed themselves to working more co-operatively.

Dedication Service

On June 5th a dedication service was held for 9 young children and their parents.

Rowcroft off to Tasmania

Geoff Rowcroft left on the 9th of June for Tasmania where he conducted studies at a youth camp organised by the Hobart churches.⁵⁸ Later in June, after returning from Tasmania, Elaine Rowcroft spent time in hospital recovering from viral pneumonia.⁵⁹

Industrial Chaplaincy

At the September Committee of Management meeting Geoff Rowcroft was given permission to pursue the option of a part-time industrial chaplaincy.⁶⁰

Mt. Clear Considers Going it Alone

Also at their September meeting Mt Clear decided to talk with Dawson St. about Dawson St. supporting Mt. Clear's effort to go it alone.⁶¹

Preparation for Family Worship Services

In June the Programme Committee began visiting other churches that were running family worship services to gain information and to determine how new styles of family worship could best be developed at Dawson St. The church was planning to introduce family worship services in 1978.⁶² Mt. Clear was also intending to develop such services.⁶³

Group Activities

On July 7th the first of a series of seminars for growth groups, 6 two hourly sessions, was held, the theme being, "Understanding Me, Understanding You". Material developed by Keith Farmer formed the basis of the sessions. 40 were enrolled in the course.⁶⁴

Platform Extended

It was also during this time that the front platform in the chapel was being altered and extended in order to allow greater scope for creative worship.⁶⁵

Magill Anniversary

On the 7th of August Chapman spoke at the 25th Anniversary of the Magill church in Adelaide.⁶⁶

Tertiary Students' Tea

On August 9th Graeme spoke at a Tertiary Students Tea, organised by the Department of Mission, Education and Development. There were 80 present. The report of the evening commented that Chapman

gave a very thorough and thought-provoking address on the Christian's need to be involved politically and socially in the world--presenting a worldwide view of the history of the relationships between church and state from the time of Christ to the present day.

In reply to a question on the political and social involvement of Churches of Christ in Australia, Graeme rapidly described in considerable detail our involvement in areas of the Temperance movement, with the Kanakas in Queensland and with Aborigines. As the chairman noted, there was time left for a couple more questions, but not for any more answers.⁶⁷

Catholic Interest in Churches of Christ

On October 2nd Chapman spoke to a group of interested Catholics at Aquinas College on the history and ethos of Churches of Christ. This was part of a series Norman Pell, master of Aquinas College, organised to familiarise Catholics with other church traditions.⁶⁸

Western Victorian Churches

The following day, the 3rd of October, Chapman set out on a tour of the Western Victorian churches. He had been asked by the Department of Home Missions and Evangelism to call on ministers and to speak to church boards to encourage them in their work.⁶⁹

Rowcrofts Invited to Accept a Further Three-Year Term

On October 23rd the church invited the Rowcrofts to remain for a further three years.⁷⁰

Cool in the Furnace

On November Sunday school students, as part of their anniversary, presented Its Cool in the Furnace at the evening service.⁷¹

Rowcrofts Released for Mt. Clear

In the second year of his ministry with Dawson St.-Mt. Clear, Geoff Rowcroft was relieved of responsibilities at Dawson St. so that he could concentrate on Mt. Clear. Dawson St. contributed significantly to Geoff's salary without gaining direct benefit from his ministry. They were prepared to do this, however, because they felt that the time and opportunity had arrived for significant development at Mt. Clear. This generous response, nevertheless, impacted upon Dawson St. as it placed pressure on the Chapmans to sustain the ministry there, a ministry that required the services of an associate minister.⁷²

In November the Mount Clear Management Committee laid the ground rules for co- operation between the two churches for 1978. Mt. Clear, as had been their custom, would worship on their own on Sunday mornings. Three evenings out of four they would worship with Dawson St. On the fourth week they would conduct their own gospel service. Geoff would preach on three Sunday mornings at Mt. Clear and on one Sunday morning at Dawson St. If there was a fifth Sunday one of the laymen at Mt. Clear would preach. Geoff would preach once a month at Dawson St. in the evening and once at Mt. Clear. He would have two Sunday evenings free.⁷³

Ecumenical Service

In 1977 Chapman participated in an ecumenical service in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The following year, in March, 1978 he was asked to give the children's story. This must have been appreciated as he was asked to fulfil this role for the next six years!⁷⁴

Guest Presenters

On the 11th and 12th of February Ron Kallmier, Director of Christian Education in New South Wales, spent time with the young people at a weekend camp.⁷⁵ This early momentum was maintained, when, on Feb 18th and 19th, 1978, Rowland Crowcher, minister of the South Blackburn Baptist church, addressed a men's breakfast and spoke to the officers of the church.⁷⁶

Personnel Changes

Changes in the Sunday School format were reflected in changes in personnel, with Max Birch being appointed superintendent of the School and Alma Hamilton secretary.⁷⁷ At the annual meeting of the church in 1978 Colin Hocking was

re-elected board chairman and Bruce Staley replaced Jim Bridson as secretary. Jim, relieved of the responsibility of the secretaryship, was able to devote more time to eldership, along with John Morris.⁷⁸

Informal Service Commenced

Early in the year the church commenced a once-a-month early, informal service, which immediately proved popular and Sunday school scholars presented a musical, "Your House", for Mother's day.

Mt. Clear Building Alterations

In February, 1978 Mt. Clear decided to renovate their chapel to accommodate the growing numbers.⁷⁹ A partition between the kitchen and the chapel and the front platform were removed⁸⁰ and the congregation repainted the interior and laid ceramic tiles on the porch floor.⁸¹ The chapel was carpeted, a wall furnace was installed⁸² and cork panelling was placed on the front wall of the church.⁸³

Junior Camp

In May the Chapmans went as leaders to the Junior Camp at Halls Gap.⁸⁴

Evening Services with a Difference

During April-May, 1978 Chapman experimented with creative evening services modelled after the style of Dr. Ray Stedman's Peninsula Bible Church in California. These "body-life" services encouraged participation from the congregation and were designed to give Christians a sense of belonging and to equip them for ministry. After a time, however, it became obvious that this style of service was not doing what it was intended to do. Opportunities for participation were monopolised by those least able to contribute to the development of a vital atmosphere. Chapman was disappointed with the experiment, but interested to learn that Stedman ultimately faced the same difficulty.⁸⁵

Pre-School Opened

The Mount Clear Community Pre-School Kindergarten Building, which was four years in development, was opened on Sunday the 18th of June.⁸⁶ Dawson St. and Mt. Clear Churches of Christ contributed $27,00, which was added to a government grant of $30,000.⁸⁷ L. F. (Lorie) Reed Constructions erected the building.⁸⁸

"Deeper Life Mission" at Hobart-Howrah

In August Graeme and Helen Chapman spent 10 days with the Hobart and Howrah churches in a "Deeper Life" Mission, as a result of which these churches eventually

developed a programme of small groups.⁸⁹ Graeme also addressed the Tasmanian Annual Conference at Ross.⁹⁰ Excited by the Chapmans' enthusiasm, members from Hobart and Howrah visited Ballarat, talked with Ballarat members⁹¹ and attended a John Mallison Small Groups weekend.⁹² In the August 19th edition of the Australian Christian Helen Chapman was featured on the front page. She was to be responsible for an elective on cell groups at the 1979 Federal Conference in Melbourne.⁹³

Rowcrofts at Kaniva

August also saw Geoff and Elaine Rowcroft ministering for several weeks in Kaniva.⁹⁴

ITCH

Also in August 70 young people were involved in a progressive dinner organised by the ITCH, one of the young people's groups.⁹⁵

Developments at Mt. Clear

Developments continued at Mt. Clear. Monthly evening services were instituted and were keenly supported by the young people. Three play groups met weekly with 25 in attendance. 160 attended the Sunday School anniversary in the Community Hall, which was addressed by Helen Chapman.⁹⁶

Geoff Rowcroft Resigns

The momentum at Mt. Clear had begun to build when Geoff Rowcroft, at the end of their second year with the church, resigned, to take up a chaplaincy ministry with Christian Youth Travel Association.⁹⁷ Farewelled on the 16th of December at Mt. Clear and the 17th of December at Dawson St.⁹⁸ the Rowcrofts were greatly missed.⁹⁹

Glen Waverley Anniversary

Chapman spoke at the 25th Anniversary of the Glen Waverley church on the 19th of November.¹⁰⁰

Resumption of Responsibility for Mt. Clear

With the start of 1979 Graeme Chapman again resumed ministerial oversight for Mt. Clear, in addition to Dawson St. The Committee of Management asked Chapman to preach once a month during 1979.¹⁰¹

Ordination

At the Federal Conference in Melbourne in January 1979 there was a call for a consultation on ordination. Chapman was asked by those involved in the consultation to prepare an historical survey of ordination within Churches of Christ. His paper, The Practice of Ordination Within Churches of Christ, was published as part of the final report, which was designed as a discussion paper among the churches.¹⁰²

Leaders Camp at Log Cabin Lodge

On February 3rd and 4th 40 attended a leaders camp at Log Cabin Lodge, where the theme of the inward and outward journeys of the Christian was introduced.¹⁰³

Church in the Round

Also, in the early months of 1979, a new participatory worship structure, "Church in the Round" was commenced.¹⁰⁴ It was conducted at 11am on the first Sunday of the month in the Dorcas Room, commencing with the first Sunday in April.¹⁰⁵

1979 Annual Meeting

At the annual meeting Rich Cartledge was elected an elder, joining Jim Bridson and John Morris. Max Peacock and Joe Bentley were elected to the board and Frank Burnham was honoured on retiring after 22 years as maintenance supervisor and cleaner.¹⁰⁶ Bentley, a builder, later to become general manager of Nicholsons, was involved for many years in the Scouting Movement. Joe was to become board chairman, and, supported by his wife Ellen, gave unstintingly of his professional skills, his administrative ability, his energy and an unflagging capacity for encouragement.

Chapmans Invited for Further Three Years

Also at the annual meeting on the 7th of March Graeme Chapman was invited to remain for a further three years following the expiry of his first term at the end of 1980.¹⁰⁷

"We're Staying"

In an editorial, "We're Staying", in the March 25th edition of Koinonia, Chapman confided to the congregation the dilemma with which he had been wrestling over recent months. As early as 1977 he was approached by the Board of the College of the Bible at Glen Iris, the National Theological College of Churches of Christ, to ask whether he would accept a lectureship at the college beginning in 1980. He indicated that he could not begin before 1981, when his initial 5-year term with Dawson St. concluded. He suggested they look for someone else. The college, however, approached him again. After considerable heart-searching he indicated that he would accept their invitation to begin at the beginning of 1981. However, as

the time for firming up negotiations approached, it was obvious that the family were not ready to move. Chapman contacted the college, indicating that he needed to withdraw his acceptance. A part-time compromise was suggested, with which Dawson St. was unhappy. As a consequence, Chapman indicated that he would not be available in 1981. At this point Chapman accepted the three-year extension the church offered, which would extend his ministry to 8 years.¹⁰⁸

Full-Time Secretary

Early in the year Miss Christine Rhook, with assistance from the government's Special Youth Employment Scheme, was employed as full-time secretary. The church appreciated that, with the lapse of at least a year between the Rowcrofts and the employment of a replacement, responsibility for Mt. Clear would again revert to Chapman.¹⁰⁹

Mount Clear Seeks Subsidy to Engage a Full-Time Minister

Early in 1979 the Mt. Clear Committee of Management spoke with Don Smith, Director of the Department of Home Mission and Evangelism, and Clive Ward, State Conference secretary, to seek a subsidy to enable the church to be independent of Dawson St. Both men looked favourably on the proposition.¹¹⁰

Mark and Jan Dunn for Mount Clear

In April the Board of Dawson St. and Mt. Clear was able to announce the appointment to Mark and Jan Dunn to fill the gap left by the Rowcrofts.¹¹¹ Though paid by the joint board, the Dunns were to work exclusively at Mt. Clear. Mark's background was in insurance, in administration and public relations. Jan had been a secretary. Both had been deacons at the church at Albion, in Queensland, where they had grown up.¹¹² Mark would graduate from the College of the Bible at the end of 1979 and they would begin at Mt. Clear at the beginning of 1980.¹¹³ In September the Dunns visited Mt. Clear and shared in a dinner and family night.¹¹⁴

Small Groups Seminars in Queensland

Graeme and Helen Chapman left for Brisbane on Thursday the 10th of May to present small groups clinics at Maryborough, Toowoomba and Brisbane at the invitation of the Queensland Home Missions Department.¹¹⁵

Australian Christian Article

In the May 12th issue of the Christian an article by Graeme Chapman was published, an extract from a sermon, in which he urged local congregations to help their ministers preach by putting into practice what was preached.¹¹⁶

Historical Society

With a continuing interest in history, Graeme Chapman, in the August 4th edition of the Christian, urged older ministers to put down on paper their experiences of ministry. He was inspired by Roy Raymond's "A Preacher's Progress", which detailed difficult, but exciting years in South Australia and Western Australia.¹¹⁷

Graeme Chapman's Father Dies

In August Graeme Chapman's father died and he and Helen travelled to Sydney for the funeral. A well-known Sydney dentist, Milton Chapman had been deteriorating in health for some time.¹¹⁸

Churches of Christ/ Uniting Church of Australia Dialogue

During this period, and for several years into the future, Chapman was involved as a Churches of Christ participant in a dialogue between Churches of Christ and the Uniting Church of Australia that was exploring similarities and differences.¹¹⁹

Joseph and his Dreamcoat

On the 14th of October the young people from ITCH presented the musical "Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat" at the evening service.¹²⁰ It was a great success and was later repeated on the 10th of November at the Half-Yearly Convention of Churches of Christ held in Bendigo.¹²¹

Chapel Renovation

During 1979 the Dawson St. chapel underwent internal renovation. The front of the chapel was altered, 3/4 of the large building was carpeted and the wooden theatre seats, that had been a feature of the building, within the area bounded by the carpet, were replaced by padded pews, to allow for manoeuvrability. The building was also painted throughout. It was a difficult building to renovate because of the sloping floor and the theatre-like appearance of this lengthy building that seated 300.¹²²

Myrtle Williams 90

Mrs. Myrtle Williams, a member and resident of Kellaston Home for the Blind, celebrated her 90th birthday in the latter part of the year.¹²³

A history of Churches of Christ in Australia

During 1979 Vital, the publishing house of Churches of Christ in Australia, published Graeme Chapman's, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism: A History of Churches of Christ in Australia.

Eureka Address

Late in 1979 Chapman delivered the address at an open-air service, organised by the City of Ballarat, to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Eureka rebellion.

Response to Need

Around the same time, the church took up a special offering for Kampuchea, which amounted to $1000.¹²⁴ Money and groceries were also donated though the year to Peplow House, an overnight accommodation home for men organised, run and serviced by the churches of Ballarat.¹²⁵

The Issue of Divorce

In November, 1979 Mt. Clear Management Committee, responding to a letter from a member of the congregation, gave consideration to the issue of divorce and remarriage. Graeme Chapman was invited to explain his stance. The issue arose from Chapman's having married a Mt. Clear couple, unconnected with the church, one of whom was divorced. This was a time when the community and the church, in the wake of the new federal Family Law Act and changing community perceptions, was having to reconsider the issue.¹²⁶ In April of the following year it was decided that

If and when the issue of remarriage of divorcees within the Mount Clear church arose in the future, it be brought to the ministers and elders for discussion, that discretion be used for the particular case, and that counselling be undertaken with the couple concerned."¹²⁷

Groups Diversify

The group programme in 1980 allowed for a range of special interests and commitments, which included social action, personal growth, prayer, family clusters, Know Your Bible, youth support and marriage enrichment.¹²⁸

Building Alterations Continue

The modernising of the chapel in 1979 was followed, in 1980, by the renovation of the Sunday School Hall, which included the construction of a new kitchen.¹²⁹

Board Restructure

At the February, 1980 board meeting Chapman outlined a planned restructure of the Dawson St./Mount Clear Board to allow for increased autonomy at Mt. Clear.¹³⁰

Mt. Clear Comes of Age

On the 13th of July, 1980 Mt. Clear came of age, with the acceptance, at its annual meeting, of a new constitution and with the publication of the first issue of Logos.¹³¹

Winter Lecture

Since coming to Ballarat Chapman had involved himself in the Ballarat Council of Churches. During much of his time in Ballarat he served on the executive, and, during 1979-1980 was president of the Council.¹³² On July 29th, 1980 he gave the Winter Lecture, where he answered the question, "Should Christians be Involved in Politics?"¹³³

Commission on Brotherhood Identity and Purpose

Following the 1980 Victorian/ Tasmanian Conference of Churches of Christ, Conference Executive established a committee" to consider our brotherhood identity and purpose."¹³⁴ Chapman, who was appointed a member of the commission, contributed several papers to the discussion, among which were, The Historical Treatment of the Restoration-Unity Concept in our History, and Should We Move Further Towards Denominationalism? The commission reported its findings to the 1984 conference.¹³⁵

A Formative Influence

In 1980 Ron Mutzelburg died. Ron had been secretary of the Church at Kedron, where Chapman had had his first ministry. Reflecting on the importance of that church in enabling him to gain a positive appreciation of ministry, Graeme commented, in a letter to the editor of the Christian:

I heard the other day that a close friend had died. Ron Mutzelburg was secretary of the church at Kedron during the time Helen and I ministered there. His death was a deep personal loss. Ron and Vida Mutzelburg were part of a leadership team at Kedron that deliberately set out to make our first ministry a happy one. We are more grateful to those who made up this team than we will ever be able to express. Their love and friendship convinced us that ministry, despite its difficulties, could be a rewarding experience.¹³⁶

Stedman Seminar

Chapman attended a seminar in Melbourne early in March, 1981 conducted by Dr. Ray Stedman and a team from the Peninsular Bible Church. Graeme brought a member of the team, Brian Morgan, to Ballarat on the Friday evening for a meeting with 70 men at Coles Cafeteria the following morning. Graeme and Mark had the

opportunity to speak with Brian personally on the Saturday evening. From the seminar and from personal conversation they discovered that the Peninsular Bible Church emphasised expository preaching, discipling, gift ministries, shared leadership, unanimity in decision-making and constant evaluation.¹³⁷

Chapman Appointed Digest Editor

Early in 1981 Chapman was appointed editor of the Australian Churches of Christ Historical Society Digest.¹³⁸ As a member of the Australian Churches of Christ Historical Society and editor of the Historical Society's Digest, Chapman was constantly urging ministers and members to preserve the history of individuals and churches.¹³⁹ As well as soliciting and editing material from others, Chapman, during his time in Ballarat, wrote a number of articles for the Digest himself. These included, By Way of Introduction,¹⁴⁰ Snippets [the early history of the Victorian and New South Wales Churches],¹⁴¹ H. G. Harward--A Brief Biography,¹⁴² Federal Conference Edition: Count it All Joy,¹⁴³ and Doug and Lillian Main: A Significant Contribution.¹⁴⁴

New Editor for Koinonia

Stuart Raymond took over as editor of Koinonia on June 21st, 1981, when he introduced himself to members through an opening editorial.¹⁴⁵ For three years Chapman had taught HSC Biblical Studies at Ballarat Evening High. The programme was under the auspices of the School of Mines and was conducted at the Ballarat High School. Stuart, an English immigrant who was a keen Anglican and a librarian at the Ballarat CAE, had attended in the second year Graeme was teaching. This led to his attending Dawson St. and to his involvement in the life of the church. In future issues of Koinonia Stuart signed editorials under the nome de plume, "The Dean."

HSC English Literature

Chapman had originally applied for the position of teacher in HSC Biblical Studies because he wanted to be involved in at least some form of community activity that was "non religious", al least in the sense of not being connected with the local church. After teaching Biblical Studies for three years, he went one step further and applied for the position of teacher in HSC English Literature with the School of Mines. He secured the appointment, which occupied him on Monday mornings. It was part of a Women's Access Programme that was designed to enable women, generally in their mid thirties, to return to study.¹⁴⁶

The Final Months of 1981

The latter part of 1981 was busy. The church met with two field directors from the Department of Mission, Education and Development, Jeff Deuble and Ian Tippitt, to plan for the future. Five young people were baptised in a morning service. The minister and a number of members were involved in Bendigo's anniversary services. In addition, a young people's camp was held at Mt. Buangor.¹⁴⁷

"Side Tracked"

The first edition of the Christian for 1982 contained an article by Chapman, under the title, "Side Tracked". In the article he argued that, because he loved the congregation under his care, he was concerned when members were side-tracked by individualism, by head truth that did not translate into living and by an activism that did not give people space to be.¹⁴⁸

Chapman For College of the Bible

On the 14th March, 1982 Chapman announced to a morning congregation that he was in the process of making a significant decision regarding his future. He shared with them something of his struggle in coming to this decision. He had wrestled, during 1981, with a series of invitations from other churches. He had also been invited to be State Minister in South Australia. What the congregation did not know at this stage, though the chairman and elders did, was that the college, learning of his possible availability, once again sought him out and offered him a position on the faculty. The public announcement of his acceptance of the College's invitation was made in the August 28th edition of the Christian.¹⁴⁹

Mark Bentley Wins Design Award for National Churches of Christ Logo

In April 1982 the church was thrilled when one of its young people, Mark Bentley, was announced as the winner of a competition to design a national logo for Churches of Christ. His photo, accompanied by an article, appeared on the front page of the April 24th edition of the Christian.¹⁵⁰

Chapman to China as ACC Delegate

Graeme Chapman was chosen to be part of a nine-member delegation from the Australian Council of Churches to visit the Church in China.¹⁵¹ The event was negotiated through the Australian Council of Churches and the China Christian Council.¹⁵² A news item from the Department of Christian Union solicited funds to help with the visit. Chapman left for China on the 18th of April.¹⁵³

Following the visit, held early in the year, Chapman wrote a series of articles for the Christian, Christians in China: A Restrained Enthusiasm, The Church in China: Post

Denominational and The Church in China: A Chinese Church. Submitted for adjudication by the Christian, this series of articles was highly commended by the Australian Religious Press Association. On returning to Ballarat Chapman was interviewed by BTV6 and was featured in the Ballarat Courier.¹⁵⁴ As part of his reporting back to Churches of Christ he also addressed a packed house at the Glen Waverley Church. One point made by Chapman, that Bible smuggling was not appreciated by leaders of the church in China, was responded to by several correspondents, one in New South Wales and another in Ballarat who was involved in the surreptitious distribution of Bibles in that country.¹⁵⁵ Chapman responded to these criticisms in the September 11th edition of the Christian.¹⁵⁶ In May, 1982 Chapman wrote again to the Christian, indicating that a photocopy of the text of his 1982 lecture on China, which it was originally hoped would be published in booklet form, was available to those desiring it.¹⁵⁷

Minister Awarded Theol. M.

While he was in China Chapman was awarded the Theol. M. degree from the Melbourne College of Divinity. During his time at Dawson St. he had been working on a thesis, submitted for this degree, on the theology of Churches of Christ in Australia.¹⁵⁸

Pris Burnham

Pris Burnham was a crucial member of the leadership team at Dawson St. during the Hunting and Chapman eras. Pris cared for hurting people and was hospitable, frequently taking in people that needed help. Furthermore, without transport, she walked the length and breadth of Ballarat, visiting members needing her care. The August 28th edition of the Christian ran a brief article by Pris, in which she emphasised the importance of hospitality, reflected her personal generosity.¹⁵⁹

The Warm Fuzzy Club

In 1982 a new young girl's club, the Warm Fuzzy Club, was formed by Denese Fowler.

People Care

A People Care course, led by Mark Dunn, also proved popular.¹⁶⁰ It was held on Wednesday nights for several consecutive weeks commencing on the 2nd of June.¹⁶¹ Topics covered were The Christian People Carer, The Sick and Hospitalised, The Aged and Lonely, Grief, Death and Bereavement, People Care for People Carers.¹⁶²

Council of Churches 1982 Winter Lecture

Graeme gave the 1982 Ballarat Council of Churches Winter Lecture on the evening of the 22nd of June, his topic being, "Christians in China Today".¹⁶³

Small Groups Seminar at Gisborne

Chapman spent time during weeks beginning the 13th and the 20th of June with the Gisborne Church, introducing them to the concept of small groups.¹⁶⁴

July Also Busy

During July Graeme participated in a TEAM Course at the Belmont, Geelong Church, on the History and theology of Churches. He had written some of the material for the course.¹⁶⁵ Chapman was also invited to address the Ballarat Rotarians on insights derived from his China visit.¹⁶⁶

Ministry Models

Chapman had been excited for some time by the diversity of ministry models that were reflected within Churches of Christ in Australia. He was also concerned that practitioners of different styles of ministry were arguing that their model was alone legitimate. He, therefore, wrote a pamphlet, published by the Federal Literature Committee of Churches of Christ, in which he outlined a variety of models and pleaded for a mutual acceptance of different patterns of ministry.¹⁶⁷

Biographical Detail on Ministers

In March 1983, Graeme Chapman, as editor of the Australian Churches of Christ Historical Society Digest, alerted researchers to the fact that biographical details about ministers were available to historians from the Historical Society. The Society had circulated ministers with a questionnaire asking for relevant personal and vocational detail. Graeme also sought to encourage continuing research into the history of Churches of Christ in Australia.¹⁶⁸

Reviews

In June, 1983 two book reviews by Chapman were published in the Christian, the first of these being Raymond Fung's, Household's of God on China's Soil,¹⁶⁹ and the second, Michael Bordeaux's, Risen Indeed: Lessons in Faith From the USSR.¹⁷⁰ A further review followed in the July 30th edition of the Christian, where he commented on Gerhard Simon's, Church, State and Opposition in the USSR.¹⁷¹ Graeme submitted a further review to the Christian in September, this time on Kenneth Dempsey's, Conflict and Decline: Ministers and Laymen in an Australian Country Town.¹⁷²

Alex and Ruth Wilson for Dawson St.

The church was informed in May¹⁷³ that Alex and Ruth Wilson had accepted the church's invitation to minister at Dawson St. from the beginning of 1984. Alex would graduate from the Churches of Christ [NSW] Theological College at Carlingford in Sydney. The Woolwich Bible College had shifted to Carlingford and changed its name.

Alex had grown up in the church at Burwood in Sydney, where his family worshipped. His father was chairman of the New South Wales Home Missions committee. Alex gained a B.Bus before entering Carlingford to train for the ministry. During his time there he was awarded a BD. He had student ministries at Canley Heights and Lane Cove.¹⁷⁴ Ruth was a daughter of Rex Ellis, a formed principal of Woolwich/ Carlingford, who died from cancer early in his career.¹⁷⁵

During the remainder of his time at Dawson St. Graeme worked at preparing the church for the arrival of the Wilsons.

ICEM Lectures

Chapman left on the 18th June, 1983 to deliver a lecture programme at Churches of Christ Colleges in Sydney and Brisbane, a total of 15 hours at both locations. His topic was, "If God: Why Evil?" The lectures were a unit in the Institute for Continuing Education in Ministry's Graduate Diploma in Ministry. ICEM was established as a co-operative venture by the three Australian Churches of Christ Colleges to provide continuing education for ministers.¹⁷⁶

Family Fun Nights

During 1983 the church conducted several family fun nights on Saturday evenings. The first was a "Medieval Night", the second, "Ye Olde Music Hall" and the third was a farewell to the Chapmans.¹⁷⁷

Chapmans Farewelled

The Chapmans were officially farewelled on the 10th of December.¹⁷⁸ The Mayor and Lady Mayoress also thanked the Chapmans at a civic reception. Graeme's community involvement has been detailed. Besides her involvement at Dawson St., where she was responsible for many new initiatives, Helen Chapman had also worked as a counsellor with the Marriage Guidance Council and taught Home Economics and Personal Development at Ballarat and Clarendon College and Group Processes at the School of Mines.¹⁷⁹ Stuart Raymond, in his editorial in Koinonia on the 11th of December, summarised the predominant emphasis of the last 8 years. He wrote:

Our responses to Graeme and Helen have no doubt been many and various. We have learned many different things. But I think the thrust of Graeme's preaching, and of his leadership, has been quite clear. He has identified for us the fundamental principle of Christian living. His fundamentalism lies not in the proclamation of rigid doctrines and dogmas, but rather in the simple acknowledgment that God is a God of love, in the recognition that he loves us, and in the acceptance of, and obedience to, the command that we accept, that we love, each other.¹⁸⁰

ALEX WILSON, 1984-1988

Alex Wilson was inducted into the ministry on February 5th, 1984. Both Alex and Ruth were looking forward to an exciting ministry. The church was soon made aware that Alex intended majoring on preaching.

In Touch

Alex brought a fresh enthusiasm to Dawson St. This was reflected in the opening editorial of the new news sheet, In Touch. He wrote:

Ruth and I were soon to leave Sydney. We had spent the evening with friends and were heading home to bed. As we drove, we wondered about the future. Our friends had promised to keep IN TOUCH, but how many of them really would? It saddened us to realise that many would not!

One of the most tragic facts of life is broken relationships. People have lost touch with their creator, they've lost touch with each other, and they've lost touch with themselves.

Jesus came to heal broken relationships. He came to bring people IN TOUCH with God by proclaiming the good news (The Evangel). He came to bring people IN TOUCH with each other so they could enjoy true fellowship (Koinonia). He came to bring people IN TOUCH with themselves.

We at Dawson St. are to follow in the steps of our Lord. It is our task too, to bring and keep people IN TOUCH with God, with each other, and with themselves.

So let's keep IN TOUCH!¹⁸¹

125th Anniversary

During the first year of Alex Wilson's ministry the church celebrated its 125th anniversary. The building was packed for the occasion and Frank Hunting was the featured speaker.¹⁸² Musical items were brought by Kate Royal and the The Gospelaires. Also present were two former ministers, W. W. Saunders and Graeme Chapman.¹⁸³

Harvest 84

In June Alex attended an evangelism seminar, Harvest 84.

Beginning the New Year

1985 began with the restarting of 3 playgroups, which gave the church contact with 40 families. There was a waiting list for vacancies. A youth club, catering for children of secondary school age, was also started.¹⁸⁴

The Wilsons Involved in Serious Accident

On the 4th of October the Wilsons were involved in a serious accident near Bendigo. They were taken to the Bendigo Base hospital with multiple injuries. Alex suffered 2 broken legs and a fractured pelvis. Ruth had a broken leg, a dislocated pelvis, a broken jaw and lacerations.¹⁸⁵ It was not until November, 1986 that Ruth had the pin removed from her leg¹⁸⁶ and April of the following year that Alex had the metal removed from his legs.¹⁸⁷

1986

There was little news from Dawson St. during 1986, a result of the fact that the Wilsons were still recovering from injuries. However, those who remembered the Huntings were saddened, in August, 1986, on hearing that Hazel Hunting had died.¹⁸⁸

Combined Gospel Celebration

The four Ballarat Churches held a combined gospel celebration on the 31st May, 1987. Phil Stevens, from Mount Clear, brought the message and Tirikke Trio the musical items.¹⁸⁹

Ballarat Christian Convention

Churches of Christ in Ballarat planned a Ballarat Christian Convention for March 19th and 20th, 1988. The programme featured "challenging Bible messages, internationally acclaimed gospel artists, and plenty of warm Christian fellowship." The two day programme included "teaching sessions and workshops, a couples' breakfast, a Youth Rally, the Gospel Celebration Rally, (combining all four Ballarat area churches), a ministers' pulpit swap (Sunday morning), an Elders' and Deacons' session", as well as free time to participate in the Begonia Festival. The guest speaker for the two days was Geoff Morrow, Director of Ministries for Wycliffe Bible Translators, Australia.¹⁹⁰

Advertisement for Minister

Early in 1988 the Wilsons indicated that they would be concluding their ministry with Dawson St. As a consequence of this notification, there appeared, in the April 30th edition of the Australian Christian an advertisement from the Dawson St.,

church in which they indicated that they were seeking applications for a minister. In the advert they indicated:

Our church is:

1. committed to a loving caring community through an established cell group programme.
2. committed to worship services of a high standard, that are relevant and attractive to the outsider, and
3. committed to growth through the proclamation of the Gospel through all areas of church life.

The man we seek:

1. would have formal ministry training
2. will provide regular, expository Bible teaching, and
3. have strong leadership qualities.¹⁹¹

Developing Momentum in the Concluding Months of Wilson's Ministry

Early in 1988 new morning services were developed that resulted in a 25% increase in attendance throughout the year. Alex Wilson concluded his ministry on October 23rd. In the eight weeks prior to his departure there were 12 baptisms and 3 rededications. During the course of Wilson's ministry the church went from decline to growth.¹⁹² Appreciation of the Wilson's time at Dawson St. was expressed at their farewell, when Alex entertained those present with an organ recital and with a solo.¹⁹³ He had a magnificent baritone voice and, before leaving Sydney for Ballarat, and in consultation with his teacher, had considered becoming involved in opera.

JIM CUNNINGHAM, 1988-1989

When Jim Cunningham, who had previously been in ministry at Peel St. commenced a 15-month interim ministry on November 6th, the church looked forward to continuing growth.¹⁹⁴ From the beginning Jim Cunningham was warmly received by the church and his ministry greatly appreciated.

Interesting Developments

On the 11th December, 1988, the musical, "Kids Praise" was featured. During January 1989 Dawson St. and Peel St. planned united gospel services. Early in the New Year Rosemary Shaw began studies at Kingsley Theological College.¹⁹⁵ Early in 1989 one of the elders, Bob Whitehead, received civic honours after 10 years as Director of Parks and Gardens in Ballarat.¹⁹⁶

Stephen Templeton for Dawson St.

In July, 1989 it was announced that Stephen Templeton, who would graduate from the Churches of Christ [NSW] Theological College at the end of the year, would commence a ministry with the church in 1990.¹⁹⁷

Senior Members

In 1989 May James celebrated her 102nd birthday.¹⁹⁸ She died the following year.¹⁹⁹ Later in the year Edie Chapman reached 93.²⁰⁰ As the year wore on the church continued to prosper under the ministry of Jim Cunningham.

STEPHEN TEMPLETON, 1990-1993

The church had the opportunity of meeting Stephen Templeton on the weekend beginning the 14th of October. Following this meeting they became excited about possibilities for 1990.²⁰¹ The growth begun under Jim Cunningham's leadership continued under Stephen Templeton.

A Further Appointment

Grasped by a new vision of what was possible, the church, at a special meeting called on February 20th, appointed Tracey Wickham to the position of Ministry Support Worker for an initial period of 12 months. It was anticipated that she would commence on the 30th of April.²⁰² Throughout this period the church was also continuing to support the Kerrison and Harmer families in PNG.²⁰³

Statistics and Projections

In October it was announced that over the past 12 months the church had grown from 104 to 132. It believed it could maintain a 20% growth rate, which would result in attendances by the year 2000 of 1,000.²⁰⁴

Retreat with Keating

Throughout the year enthusiasm continued to mount, which was further developed by a retreat for the ministers, elders and the administration committee led by Ted Keating.

Growth Continues

On the 4th of November there were 200 at the morning service, which included 119 communicants. 27 went forward for committal. In the evening 91 attended the gospel service, which was led by the young people.²⁰⁵

Christine Hearn Receives Award

Towards the conclusion of the year, Christine Hearn (formerly Christine Rhook and the church's first full-time secretary), at a graduation ceremony, received the Ivy May Dicker award for work at the Queen Elizabeth Geriatric Centre.²⁰⁶

New Sound System

In late 1990 Dawson St. purchased a new sound system. It was made possible by a gift of $7,000. Eric Johnson took charge of the new equipment. Recognising the importance of music in the church's ministry, an additional $2,000 was spent on a drum kit and synthesiser.²⁰⁷

Growing Excitement

As the church moved into 1991 numbers continued to grow. Attendances at both services increased. "Church spirits (were) high as (the church waited) to see what God is going to do next".²⁰⁸ Dawson St., reporting to the Regional Board in June, 1991, indicated that attendances were averaging 165 in the morning and 80 in the evening.²⁰⁹

Visit of W. W. Saunders

Early in the year W. W. Saunders paid a visit to the CWF and Senior Members Fellowship, where memories of his 1939-1945 ministry were relived.²¹⁰

Winter Coffee Cabaret

On the 23rd of June Dawson St. held its annual Winter Coffee Cabaret, when 220 filled the local School of Mines function room. The gospel was gently presented in an atmosphere of music and song by senior minister, Stephen Templeton. Many asked about the church and its activities, one family indicating that they would like to attend the church on a regular basis.²¹¹

Further Innovations

In July an all-age choir was formed, while, on the 4th August, the church extended its worship offerings to three services, 9:30am, 11am and 7pm.²¹²

90-Year-Old Baptised

In September Stephen Templeton baptised a 90 year old, Myra Williams. Commenting on the occasion Stephen wrote:

This re-inforces the importance for us as churches to continue to preach the gospel and baptism as the response of a commitment to Christ, as baptism by immersion is a command, not an option.²¹³

Internship

In January, 1991, Rodney Ratcliffe, a student at the Wollongong Institute for Contemporary Church Leadership, who was to be involved in an internship at Dawson St. was inducted as an associate minister.²¹⁴ Rod was joined by his wife Sue, who was also studying at the Institute. His appointment was for six months. His responsibilities involved worship services and small groups.²¹⁵ Over the 6 months Sue was involved in the church's music ministry, with solos, choral work and the tuition of young singers. Rod and Sue concluded their interim ministry on the 5th of July, when 140 were present to bid them farewell. They were given a love offering of $480 to help with their expenses at the Institute.²¹⁶

Farewell to Bible College Students

At the same time as the Ratcliffes were being welcomed, the church farewelled Cheryl Collins, who was to study at Kingsley College, a Methodist Theological College in Melbourne, and Tim Clark, who had been accepted as a student at the Churches of Christ (in NSW) Theological College at Carlingford in Sydney.²¹⁷

Record Numbers at Winter Coffee Cabaret

On June 21st the Dawson St. Winter Coffee Cabaret, held in the Ballarat Tennis Association Hall, drew a record crowd of 330. Numbers had risen, over the years, from 80 to the current record.²¹⁸

"Bring a Dad", Father's Day Service

A special fathers' day service was held on the 6th of September, 1992 in the Regent Multiplex Theatre. The 9:30am and 11am services were combined, with 320 attending the service. At this time the current active membership was 166. There had been 22 baptisms to date during the year. An offering for Somalia, taken at the service, raised $1,194.²¹⁹

Spring Conference

20 members attended the Spring Conference in Wollongong, held from October 17th to 19th, where the theme was, "Communicating the Gospel in the 90's."²²⁰

Church Commenced at Haddon

Dawson St. seeded a congregation at Haddon, 16 kilometres from Ballarat, where a number of members lived. The first service was held on the 8th of November, 1992. Meetings were held in newly-completed community facilities. Haddon, an older

area, was in the midst of new development, with a new primary school complex designed for 350 children and with an enrolment, at the time of the commencement of the young congregation, of 180. The immediate population was 2000, which was situated in a wider post-code area of 7000. 40 shared in the first Baptism, of Isabel Twyerould, which was conducted by Stephen Templeton in Lake Burrumbeet.²²¹ Within 4 months numbers were averaging between 50 and 60 and there had been two baptisms. 80% of those attending were from nominal or non-Christian backgrounds. Dawson St. donated $8,000 towards a part-time ministry.²²²

Induction of John Tudball at Haddon

John Tudball, an elder at Dawson St., was inducted as the part-time minister of the young congregation at Haddon on the 2nd of May, 1993 by Stephen Templeton and Don Smith, Director of the Department of Mission, Education and Development. In their visionary approach to Haddon, Dawson St. anticipated that Haddon would become full-time. The membership at the time of the induction was 23, after just 8 months. Attendances ranged between 60 and 70 and a Sunday School and Youth work had been established. Haddon members continued to join Dawson St. for evening services and for cabarets.²²³ Haddon plans to affiliate with conference in 1994.²²⁴

Leadership 2000

Early in 1993 Stephen Templeton, along with Dale White from Mount Clear, was chosen to visit America with a group of ministers, and minister facilitators, where they were to explore the issue of leadership. They were chosen because it was felt that they had shown outstanding potential. The venture was organised by a number of Senior Ministers and funded by Christian Projects.²²⁵

Resignation of Stephen Templeton

Early in the year Templeton shocked the congregation when he announced that he would be resigning in December. He informed members that he had accepted the challenge of planting a church at Byron Bay, in Northern New South Wales. At the time Dawson St. was thriving. The church had conducted a successful day of prayer on May 29th, the Loaves and Fishes outreach mission was working towards a target distribution of 3000 meals and the winter coffee cabaret had drawn 281 to the Ballarat Tennis Centre.²²⁶ Despite, or perhaps because of Stephen's resignation, the church witnessed a baptism a week for 6 weeks. At that time the tally for the year was 21.²²⁷

Darren Kittel for Dawson St.

Late in 1993 Dawson St. announced that Darren and Pauline Kittel would commence a ministry at Dawson St. in February, 1994. Darren, who came originally

from Firle in South Australia, was born on the 8th August, 1965. He completed a Diploma in Ministry from the Adelaide College of Divinity while studying with the Bible College of South Australia. He also spent a year at the Churches of Christ Theological College at Mulgrave in 1987. He then ministered as a student intern at Aldgate Valley, in South Australia and was minister at Kingston Park when approached by Dawson St. Pauline completed a two-year youth course in Adelaide.²²⁸ Anticipating a challenging future with Darren, who had been invited for an initial 5-year term, lay leaders commented:

We believe Darren has the gifts needed and the ability to take the church into the 21st century. He has been given 100% support by the elders and membership and we are waiting with expectant hearts, for the direction he will lead us in.²²⁹

[BCOC 409-438]