Planned Giving

At York St. a planned giving programme with Trevor Giles, field director of the Department of Home Missions and Evangelism, early in 1976, resulted in a 22% increase in giving.¹

Church Prospers

Under David Gurney the church continued to prosper. In the early part of the year 46 attended a family camp at Monbulk, while around 50 in their teens and early twenties regularly attended gospel services and the youth oriented "Salt Company" which followed it.² The momentum maintained as the year progressed. Mid-year the Women's Evening Fellowship presented a gospel musical, while the CE and Salt Company were also involved in services. One evening that proved popular was an "Old Fashioned Revival Night", which brought back memories for many. Over 40 were attending teen/adult group studies, associated with the introduction of the Education, Nurture and Instruction programme.³ In May 1977 it was reported that 60 people were sharing weekly in adult study groups. The tempo of church life, however, was not wholly directed internally. Early in the year the CE raised $250 for the Bible Society through a bike-a-thon, while the Evening Women's Fellowship held a drug seminar as a service to the community.⁴ Later in the year Salt Co. presented the musical "Come Together" for the church anniversary communion service.⁵

Ministry Addition

In September 1977⁶ Len Martin accepted the position of full-time co-minister with David Gurney, while Ray Veal, now settled back in Ballarat after missionary service in India, was appointed elder.⁷ Martin was to commence at the beginning of 1978.⁸ Before he assumed responsibilities at York St. the church indicated that they would sponsor his attendance at a Pastors Management Course,⁹ which was to run from February 14th to the 18th, 1978.¹⁰ It was planned that Martin would move into the Lovenear Gve manse and Gurney would reside in his own home. The board negotiated with Gurney for a manse allowance.¹¹ On Feb 6th, 1978¹² Len Martin was inducted into an associate ministry at York St.¹³

Melita Curtain for COB

In November Melita Curtain, one of the young people, was accepted as a student at the College of the Bible.¹⁴ The church followed her progress with interest.¹⁵ Melita graduated on November 16th, 1979.¹⁶

Combined Service

In January 1978 York St. and Peel St. shared joint services, responding to a slackening of pace during the holiday period.¹⁷

February Statistics

Average attendances in February were 156 in the morning and 116 in the evening.¹⁸

Growing Enthusiasm

As the year progressed, the Men's Home Bible Study attracted increased interest and evening services began to draw large numbers of young people. Salt Co. organised a Camp at Halls Gap early in the year, which was led by David Gurney, who was pouring much of his effort into the youth of the church. ¹⁹ An outdoor communion service at Mt. Cole was also organised in the early part of the year.²⁰

Emphasis on Youth Work

During March and April Len Martin conducted Bible Studies for the Ballarat CAE Christian Fellowship.²¹ David Gurney took a group of young people with him to preaching appointments at St. Arnaud and Wedderburn.²²

Apportioning Spheres of Responsibility

In May Gurney and Martin allocated ministerial tasks between them.²³ David Gurney was to be responsible for youth work and evangelistic outreach and Len Martin for pastoral ministry.²⁴

Ventures in Evangelism

In order to reach the community and make themselves known, York St. prepared and distributed 2000 copies of an Essential Services Guide in the area where they were situated in the second half of 1978. They were also, at that time, planning for a "Mini-Mission" in September with Peter DeWildt, the minister at Clayton.²⁵ Called "Come Alive", the mission resulted in 7 commitments or rededications.²⁶

Home for the Veals

When the Veals returned from missionary service in India the church built a home for them at Mt. Helen. Late in 1978 the building was completed and the church was invited to a house-warming.²⁷

Football Challenge

Around the same time, Peel St. and York St. combined to challenge Dawson St. and Mt. Clear to a game of football, which resulted in victory for Dawson St. and Mt. Clear.²⁸

Church Thriving

The first year of the dual ministry at York St. saw the highest attendances ever. The church was thriving.

Three Young People Accepted as COB Students

In December, 1978 three members were accepted as students at the College of the Bible. They were Alan Hocking, Alan Schenk and Crispian Jones.²⁹ Each was presented with a cheque for $50³⁰ and books by Watchman Nee in February of the following year.³¹

Members Called to Ministry

Early in 1979 the church farewelled Vic and Gwen Berry, who had been appointed managers of the Monbulk Campsite, the principal camping venue for Churches of Christ in Victoria.³²

Easter Camp

Dave Gurney and Len Martin led the Easter camp at Hall Gap, which drew 91 young people.³³ David also led the 1980 Easter Camp, where the studies were on the Holy Spirit.³⁴

Len Martin

In 1979 Len Martin threw himself into his work. Early in the year, Martin, who loved the outdoors, was chaplain to a Churches of Christ Boys' Explorers "Tassie Trek."³⁵ Len a former school teacher, also led a five-week series of studies on the "Resurrection."³⁶ Later, Len, who had no formal theological education, wrote a spirited letter to the editor of the Christian protesting about the political bias of Alan Austin, who penned a regular feature, "Mustard Seeds", dealing with many of the church's social and political preferences. Len argued that political comment had no place in a Christian journal. He wrote, "Politics can split a denomination as readily as a local congregation."³⁷ Following this up Martin, in June, 1980 wrote a scathing letter in the Christian, criticising the World Council of Churches for

allegedly supporting Guerrilla groups. In the letter he criticised Keith Horne, whom he alleged had been a covert spokesperson for the W.C.C. within Churches of Christ, whose identity had finally been revealed.³⁸

Other Personalities

In April, 1979 W. Barrett, an old-time member at York St., celebrated his 90th birthday.³⁹ Later in the year, one of the visiting speakers at York St. was Jim Beggs, the Victorian Branch President of the Waterside Workers Union.⁴⁰

The Music Machine

Before the year closed Sunday School scholars, under the direction of Philip Day, presented a musical, "The Music Machine", at their anniversary.⁴¹

Collingwood Letter

During 1979 the church at Collingwood withdrew from membership with the associated Churches of Christ in Victoria because of the inclusion of the Roman Catholic Church in the Victorian Council of Churches, with which Churches of Christ in Victoria were associated. Collingwood explained their action in a letter to York St., a summary of which was included in the church paper.⁴²

Resignations of Gurney and Martin

Early in 1980 it was announced that both David Gurney and Len Martin would conclude their ministries with York St. at the end of the year. David had accepted the ministry of the church at Albion in Brisbane.⁴³ Towards the close of the year Len Martin, who had begun study at the College of the Bible,⁴⁴ accepted a called to The Patch, to commence in 1981.⁴⁵ The Gurneys and Martins were farewelled on the 17th of December.⁴⁶

Physical Challenges

At the same time a Bike-a-thon from Ballarat to Adelaide raised $1,000 for Kampuchean relief. Len Martin, who loved the outdoors, led a group of hikers through Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania.⁴⁷

Jolliffes Return from PNG

The early part of 1980 also saw the return of Mike and Kathy Jelliffe on furlough from Papua New Guinea, where they were stationed with M.A.F.⁴⁸

Seeking a Replacement

As early as March, 1980 the board began seeking a ministry replacement. Preachers they considered, without result, were Steve Downey, Stephen Curkpatrick, Graham Long, Ian Alves and Geoff Rowcroft.⁴⁹ Contact with Roger Risson, of Albert Park, in May, was more productive. Roger indicated that he would be interested and available at the end of 1981.⁵⁰ In June the board resolved to recommend Roger Risson to the congregation and suggested an initial appointment of 5 years.⁵¹

Statistics

At that time morning attendances were averaging 104 and evening meetings were drawing around 80.⁵²

ROGER RISSON, 1981-1989

Roger Risson was inducted as the new minister at York St. on the first Sunday in 1981.⁵³

Building Alterations

Further church alterations were opened shortly after Roger's arrival.

Ken Medema

Early in the year the church was also involved, along with other Churches of Christ in Ballarat, in a Ken Medema concert in the Memorial Theatre. Ken is a blind American Christian singer and composer.⁵⁴

Risson Takes Firm Grasp of Affairs

It is obvious from board minutes that Risson took firm control of affairs at York St. from the time of his arrival. In February he met formally with the elders and indicated to the board that this practice would be continued.⁵⁵ When asked about the appointment of an associate he indicated that he would rather settle in for 12 months before deciding.⁵⁶ By the end of the year the Board had been re-organised and was working on a committee system, where committees had specific portfolios and had power to act, subject to review by the board.⁵⁷

Significant Developments

In the wake of the new ministry four significant developments took place. First, A seminar with Jeff Deuble, Field Director of the Department of Mission, Education and Development, led to the formation of a Youth Council. The church held a day of prayer on October 3rd. On October 10th, board members held a planning day to

programme for the future. The church also formed a new choir.⁵⁸ 70 attended a church family camp at Halls Gap, a "Youth Happening" was organised on the Jolliffe's farm and the youth group prepared a special dinner for the "more mature" folk in the congregation.⁵⁹

Innovative Initiatives

As the year progressed further innovative initiatives were launched. An open-air worship service, followed by lunch, was organised at Mt. Franklin, a Community Caring Centre was developed to "enhance friendship and fellowship", 25 students associated with the Christian Fellowship at the Ballarat CAE were invited into church homes for hospitality day, the ladies' fellowship organised an "Applefest" to raise money for the College of the Bible and a Prayer and Renewal Seminar was held on October 15th and 16th.⁶⁰

Chris Jones Commissioned for Work with MAF

On the 18th of April, 1982,⁶¹ is and Anne Jones were commissioned for their work with MAF Air.⁶²

Dobson Films

In October and November a series of James Dobson films on family life were screened in Ballarat, under the sponsorship of the Churches of Christ. York St. participated in the venture, though they were disappointed by the poor attendances.⁶³

The Pace Increases

1983 began with a vengeance. Weekend Wackers recommenced with 50 children. Weeknight Bible studies were averaging 100. Early in the year York St. was host to a TEAM Visitation Evangelism programme, attended by 20 people from the Ballarat churches, 7 of these being from York St.⁶⁴ By mid-year there were five involved in pastoral visitation.⁶⁵ A special programme of Bible teaching from Alan Webb, minister of the Swanston St. church, commenced with a church dinner attended by 130.⁶⁶

Death of Lal and Bert Feary

During the early months of 1983 the church was saddened by the deaths of Lal and Bert Feary, who had been part of the backbone of the church for many years.⁶⁷

Easter Camp

The Halls Gap Easter Camp was led by Roger Risson and Jeff Deuble, Field Director with the Department of MED.

"Come Alive Festival" with John Bond

In 1983 8 from York St. accepted Christ during the "Come Alive Festival", with John Bond and David Yardley, a venture sponsored by the Ballarat Churches of Christ. There were also 17 re-commitments. The festival had a great impact on the life of the church.⁶⁸

Further Initiatives

As the year progressed further initiatives were taken. 200 shared in a gospel service, after which members repaired to members' homes for small group activity. Discipleship classes were started for new converts. A second leadership training group was commenced, while another group was begun using Navigator material. A youth seminar for leaders and potential leaders was led by Mal Garvin and Ian Smith. Board members spent a long weekend at Lorne planning for the future.⁶⁹ Ron Elbourne, minister at Glen Waverley, led a training session on "being a Caring Congregation". 24 young people attended a Scripture Union training day. Later in the year Judy Kellock was appointed administrative secretary and over $1200 was raised in a special missionary love offering.

David Yardley Appointed Youth Minister

The most significant development, however, was the appointment of David Yardley as youth minister for a five-year term, to commence in February, 1984.⁷⁰ David, who was in membership with the church at Thornlie in Western Australia, where John Bond was senior minister, had been Director of Outreach for Youth For Christ in Western Australia for four and a half years.⁷¹

Ministry Developments

Early in 1984 David Yardley commenced a five-year term as Youth Minister. The church participated in a day of prayer prior to his induction. Roger Risson's ministry was extended to 1990. The eldership shared in a Discipleship Seminar at St. Ives Anglican Church, Sydney. 180 attended suppers and lunches that were part of a "Mingle with the Ministers" programme, conducted over a two-week period.⁷² New offices were constructed for the ministers and administrative secretaries. In the latter part of the year the pastoral care team was expanded and every fourth board meeting was given over to planning sessions in committees.

Youth Work Burgeoning

The younger teens club had grown to 30 and a Bible study group for older youth was commenced. Under the inspiration of David Yardley, leaders were being trained for an outreach club that was targeting the local high school.⁷³

Additional Initiatives

Early in the year a monthly prayer breakfast was commenced and an outreach dinner was organised featuring Stuart Roe, which drew 100.

Further Developments in 1984

The second half of the year was no less busy. Apart from programmes up and running, a talent and craft fair raised $1,100 for property development. The board was involved in a programme of visitation. 95 participated in a "Companion" study of 2 Corinthians. In August 230 attended a gospel service, followed by meals and small group activity in homes.⁷⁴ Around the same time a camp was held at Daylesford for "The Herd", the younger teens. 20 attended.⁷⁵ Rowland Crowcher, a Baptist and Senior Minister of the South Blackburn Baptist church, spoke at the anniversary services of the church, when $900 was raised as a missionary love offering. As the year drew to a close, a discipleship seminar was conducted, involving 50 members. The church planned to develop 4 to 6 discipleship groups in 1985, which would use Navigator material. This would be in addition to the already existing 4 Bible study groups. To cope for increasing numbers, the car park was expanded.⁷⁶ An offering taken on Christmas day, 1984, for Churches of Christ Overseas Aid [COCOA], amounted to $1433.⁷⁷ Developments during 1984 had been breath-taking.

Cracking Pace Continues into 1985

This pace continued into 1985. The following catalogue gives some indication of the broad range of initiatives that were being developed. At the beginning of 1985 orientation meetings were held for new members. The group programme was once again launched. There were 11 Bible study/discipleship groups operating. Six of the groups were discussing Navigator discipleship material. Early in the year an open-air service was held at Kirks Reservoir, followed by a picnic lunch.⁷⁸ David Yardley was active, instituting a Campus Life programme at Ballarat East High School, which commenced with a "Burger Bash". 40 students attended. This was an outreach programme for upper high school students. In addition, a singing group "Cornerstone", formed the previous year, performed on the "Float of Witness" in the Begonia Festival parade. The ministry of this group was expanding as they visited other churches throughout Victoria.⁷⁹ Mid-year 75 attended a Prayer Discovery programme for the church family. In conjunction with this, new prayer chains were formed.⁸⁰ Later in the year a special gospel service was held at the Ballarat CAE. Prayer breakfasts continued and a new Art 'n Craft group was established.⁸¹ Early in November it was reported that in the past 10 months the Catering committee had raised $2,200.⁸² Later in the year, the young people walked from the White Swan Reservoir to raise money for drought-stricken areas of the Sudan.⁸³

Special Holiday Services

Gospel services were conducted at York St. during the Dec, 1985-Jan, 1986 vacation, for the first time in many years. The films of Keith Miller were used as a drawcard. Average attendance was 114.

Statistics

During 1985 41 members were added, 23 of these being "brand new Christians."⁸⁴

Continuing momentum into 1986

During 1986 the earlier momentum was maintained. Early in the year Orientation groups were reformed to help new members feel part of the church. In April a Welcoming Team of 18 was launched. Half days of prayer continued to support the life of the church.⁸⁵ Extra chairs were often needed for gospel services. 16 Bible study groups met weekly, 5 of these being youth cells. Around 90 young people were involved in "The Herd", "Shekinah" and "Campus Life". A band was also commenced to assist in the gospel service. "Cornerstone" continued to flourish and was used in an open-air service.⁸⁶ It was later featured at the church at Manifold Heights.⁸⁷ Mid-way through the year 2 new Bible study groups were formed, one for new Christians and the other a Know Your Bible Group. By that stage 110 adults and 90 young people were involved in weekly studies. Numbers continued to grow.⁸⁸ The Australian premier of the musical "Daybreak", which was also staged mid-year, was highly successful and reflected a depth of local talent. It was later performed in Geelong.⁸⁹ Around the same time a 4th prayer chain was set up, which meant that 30 of the church family were now involved in the chains.⁹⁰

Plans for Extensions

In April it was announced that plans for major building extensions were being planned.⁹¹ The initial response for offerings towards the project on "Miracle Day" realized $169,000 in financial donations, plus labour from members and friends.⁹²

Training of Youth Leaders

To enhance their skills, David Yardley and Laurie Elshang attended a youth leaders speciality ministry training seminar in New South Wales in the middle of the year.⁹³

9:30 Service Instituted

At the same time a new 9:30 am Sunday service was growing in numbers and was shifted to 9am to allow more time for informal participation.

Parsons Farewelled

It was during this period that the church farewelled Brian, Heather and Haydn Parsons. Brian had accepted the position of maintenance manager with Vision Valley Camp run by Wesley Central Mission.⁹⁴

Further Developments

In addition to previous initiatives, Pastoral lunches for the elderly were commenced and a new playgroup was started.⁹⁵

David Yardley Resigns

Unfortunately, David Yardley, who had been responsible for many of the recent creative developments, resigned at the end of 1986. This meant that, in 1987, Roger Risson would be again on his own.⁹⁶

Church Anniversary in School of Mines

In 1987 the church anniversary was held at the School of Mines, in what used to be the Ballarat Gaol. Barry Jenkins from Ringwood was the speaker.

Death of Evan Murray

That year the church was saddened by the tragic death of Evan Murray, a young musician with great potential.⁹⁷

Work Begins on Building

Work on building developments, the construction of a new chapel and the integration into it of existing structures, was begun with a working bee and a "Driving of the Peg" ceremony, which was attended by 80 on September 5.⁹⁸

Statistics

At the annual meeting, in September, it was reported that the membership was currently 215. During the past 12 months there had been 12 additions by faith and baptism and 13 additions by transfer.

Appointment of Robert Mason as Associate

At that meeting it was unanimously decided to appoint Robert Mason associate pastor from 1988.⁹⁹

New Initiatives

Further initiatives resulted in 13 members of the "Senders" leadership group attending a training and sharing camp at Hepburn Springs and the appointing of a pastoral carer to several of the Bible study groups.¹⁰⁰

Continuing Developments

Further developments followed. The children of the church presented the musical "Colby" at a gospel service and 50 "Inbetweeners" [late teens upwards] raised $110 for the building fund through a coffee cabaret. The CWF organised a bridal gown parade with 57 gowns from the 1890's onwards. A teaching seminar was also held with Rev. Al Wollen, minister to the Luis Palau evangelistic team.¹⁰¹ The youth group organised an "Old Folks Dinner" prior to Christmas, while over 300 attended "Carols by Candlelight" at the Eureka Stockade.¹⁰²

Into 1988

Early in 1988 "Cornerstone" played a special part in a gospel service before disbanding. Philip Johnstone was thanked for his work with the group. Around the same time the elders spent a weekend retreat at Lorne with Robert Mason, the new associate minister.¹⁰³ Unfortunately, Robert did not remain with the church long and resigned not long after commencing. One significant innovation, early in 1988, was the displaying of prayer points on a screen at the front of the building, designed to encourage worshippers to pause and pray. In the early months of 1988 35-45 younger teenagers were attending "Herd." Geoff and Marion Feary were also farewelled before shifting to Port Macquarie, in New South Wales.¹⁰⁴ Mid-year a number of significant developments occurred. The Discare Committee was organising monthly suppers for newcomers in host homes, the steel framing had been erected and the bricklaying started on the new chapel¹⁰⁵ and Roger Risson attended a National Conference on Small Groups.

Brian Parsons Appointed Pastoral Worker

Brian Parsons was appointed as pastoral worker to work in association with the minister until a further associate could be appointed. Later, in October, Brian and Heather Parsons were thanked for their ministry. Brian was planning to start a young adult leadership group in 1989 and was continuing to help with preaching and youth ministries.¹⁰⁶

Ever on the alert For Emerging Needs

The elders were also busy, visiting all the groups and auxiliaries in the church to discover their needs, plans and problems, and to determine how they could be more effectively supported. Numbers were growing at pre-gospel prayer meetings and there were an increasing number of prayer partners praying during gospel

services.¹⁰⁷ In June, a new group, "The Gangsters", was formed, to cater for young people between 7 and 9.¹⁰⁸

Risson's Father Dies

Early in July Roger's father died while visiting the family in Sweden. He had been a teacher, principal, deacon and elder at East Ipswich in Queensland and had served as President of the Queensland Conference of Churches of Christ. His four children were all involved in ministry.¹⁰⁹

Further Training

In September, Brian Parsons, Glen Strange and Peter Sobey attended a training seminar on youth ministry,¹¹⁰ while Roger attended a Ministry Enrichment Training Programme at El Kanah Christian Community, Marysville.¹¹¹

Anniversary Services

240 sat down to a church anniversary Fun Night and dinner. Anniversary services were held in the School of Mines Courthouse.¹¹²

Statistics

At the 95th annual meeting in September it was reported that membership was currently 231, up 16 on the previous year. There had been 29 additions by faith and baptism. The communicant average was 151. It was also indicated that over 40 were involved in "One to One" supporters ministry.¹¹³

Throughout the year the church continued to raise considerable sums, both for the building fund and for other projects, such as the Christian Fellowship Association, to whom they donated $1400. The church was grateful that the government provided $30, 000 to relocate the Day Kindergarten associated with the church.¹¹⁴ By May, 1989 the church had donated $175,000 towards the building fund. This represented $165 per week.¹¹⁵ The building of the Day Kindergarten was also completed in May.¹¹⁶

Facing Contemporary Issues

During February, 1989, worship services featured the emphasis of Harold Howlett on "Coping Christianly at Work". During the same period, gospel services, under the title, "Single and Sanctified", explored ways of coping with singleness.¹¹⁷

Roger Risson Resigns

It was during the early months of 1989 that Roger Risson indicated to the church that he would be concluding his ministry with them at the end of 1989.¹¹⁸ In August it was announced that Risson had accepted the ministry at Werribee and that he would commence there in 1990.¹¹⁹

Jim Cunningham for York St.

It was also indicated at that time that Jim Cunningham, who had ministered at Peel St. and then Dawson St., would begin a 3 years ministry at York St. in 1990.¹²⁰

Building Programme Progresses

By the middle of the year the building programme had passed the half-way mark.

Leadership 2000

Around the same time Roger Risson was a participant in the "Leadership 2000" Conference in Singapore.¹²¹

Wendy Williams to Hong Kong and China

Wendy Williams, a member at York St., towards the end of the year, left for Hong Kong and China with Students for Christ Missions.¹²²

Prayer for the Future

In November a special evening of prayer was held for the church ministry.¹²³

JIM CUNNINGHAM, 1990-1993

Brian White, Field Director with the Department of Mission, Education and Development, inducted Jim Cunningham into the ministry of the York St. Church.¹²⁴

Gary Berry Appointed Youth Minister

Gary Berry was also inducted at the same time as Youth Minister.¹²⁵

Early in February youth leaders joined the ministers to review 1989 and to discuss possibilities for 1990.¹²⁶

Death of Tim Burns

The church was saddened early in the year by the tragic death of Tim Burns.¹²⁷

Further Initiatives

In May York St. hosted Youth Specialties training nights, led by Graham Hyman and Andrew Ball.¹²⁸ Around the same time Jim Cunningham was speaker at the Ballarat Jazz Festival outdoor worship service¹²⁹ and Gary Berry shared the leadership of the Easter Camp at Halls Gap.¹³⁰ In June gospel services featured different eras in the church's history and members dressed accordingly.¹³¹

Buildings Opened

The new complex was opened on July 1st. It included a new kindergarten and a 350-seat chapel. Voluntary labour, the gift of materials and loan of machinery had helped to keep the cost down.¹³² A thank offering taken consequent to the opening raised $10,000.¹³³

Youth Vision

In the latter part of the year the Youth Committee met with Andrew Ball, a field director with the DMED responsible for fostering youth work within the churches in Victoria and Tasmania, with a view to forming the basic structure for a Youth Vision ministry at the church. As a result of this consultation, York Street Youth Vision was launched and was enthusiastically accepted.¹³⁴

1991

On the 10th February, 1991 York St. again arranged an open-air service at Kirk's Reservoir, which drew an attendance of 200.¹³⁵ Shortly afterwards, Barry McMurtrie and Wes Beavis conducted a seminar on "Ministering in the 90's", which was challenging and stimulating. Additionally, the 7UP youth group participated in a demolition derby at the Ballarat airport, which was described as a "smashing success!"¹³⁶ Later in the year Brian and Joan White conducted a marriage enrichment seminar and the Ballarat Mayor, Cr. Frank Williams, chose York St. as the venue for the mayoral dedication service.¹³⁷ 1500 attended the York St. Christmas Festival at the Eureka Stockade, at which Frank Clark conducted a 20-piece orchestra. Other activities were an outdoor coffee shop, barbecue, children's activities and numerous bands. The festival had originated 15 years ago when Marion Feary invited members to carol singing in her garden after church on the Sunday before Christmas.¹³⁸

Berrys Farewelled

Early in 1992 Gary and Jane Berry were farewelled after a two-year ministry with the church.

Michael Janssen commences Part-time Associate Ministry

At the same time it was announced that Mike Janssen, co-ordinator of Fusion in Ballarat, would begin a part-time associate ministry with the church later in the year.¹³⁹ Mike, who was born in Sydney, came to Ballarat five years previously to take charge of the work of Fusion in Ballarat. A team, under his guidance, established employment workshops, a successful Australia Day outreach and Matilda's Cafe, a community venture for Ballarat youth that was staffed by volunteers. Michael was welcomed to the associate ministry with York St., along with his wife Glenys and their son Martin, mid-way through the year. Mike's focus was to be youth work.¹⁴⁰

Winter Projects

During the winter months two successful programmes were organised, a seminar with Wes Beavis on worship, entitled "Meaning of Life" and a Steve Grace concert, which drew 350. This was followed by an Endless Praise concert.¹⁴¹

Focus on Music

The church continued to focus on music as the year wore on. It hosted a Russian musical group, "New Melodies", Jenny and Jonathan Flack shared their musical ministry with the church and Sunday School and "Bell Ringers" performed to over 300 in a concert in the church.¹⁴²

Helen Watson to Uganda

At the same time, Helen Watson, a member of the congregation, travelled to Uganda to assist missionaries in the publication of children's literature.¹⁴³

Cunninghams and Janssen Farewelled

Early in 1993 Jim Cunningham and Mike Janssen were farewelled.¹⁴⁴ Mike planned to commence studies at CCTC. He decided, instead, on a year's respite and moved onto campus late in 1993. There were also a number of others farewelled at this time. Kylie and Andrew Tonkin moved to Wollongong, where Andrew was to study at the Institute for Church Leadership and Dianne Keesman took up a counselling position at El Kanah at Kew.¹⁴⁵

Dr. Geoff Whiting as Interim

From February to April Geoff Whiting conducted a part-time interim ministry.¹⁴⁶

777FM

Frank Clark from York St. was morning presenter on Triple 7 FM during the 9 days of its third test broadcast. Frank had been involved for many years presenting "3BA Good News."¹⁴⁷

LARRY GALBRAITH, 1993-

Larry Galbraith, a former Anglican, who had studied for a Diploma in Youth Work at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was inducted as senior minister at York St. on the 28th of April.

Galbraith spent the previous two years as a team member at the Wollongong Church, in New South Wales, under Barry McMurtrie's leadership.¹⁴⁸ Reflecting on the present appointment, Galbraith commented that

York St. was a great church, recognised as a key centre in the development of a vision for the 90's.¹⁴⁹

Centenary Celebrations

York St. celebrated its centenary on 14th of November, 1993, when two former ministers, Harold Long and Geoff Whiting, were present.

[BCOC 478-493]