Parish of Channel and Cygnet

Issues at the pub

A pub ministry began at Cygnet on 7 February this year with a gathering of about 50 people to discuss the community's response to climate change and peak oil. The meeting was advertised as the first in a series of conversations to discuss issues of importance to the community with the inclusion of Christ's perspective.

The challenge that sparked this ministry was that of sharing the gospel message with those in the community who don't attend church. The message is too precious to be repeated only amongst those who mostly already have an active relationship with the Lord Jesus.

St Mark's has a healthy relationship with the local community. Church members are held in high regard and have connections to a broad cross section through our different members. It was possible therefore, to draw together those organisations and individuals who are actively engaged with or concerned about the perceived problem of climate change.

Knowing that Revd Alister Palmer would be in Tasmania at the time this ministry was planned, we took the opportunity to hear of the community response in Bristol in the UK, Alister's home.

We also heard from Dennis O'Donnell about the current scientific understandings; the Cygnet Action Network who were formed specifically to address issues such as climate change; Sustainable Living Tasmania, and some individuals who had initiated projects of their own to raise public awareness about the issues at hand.

A follow-up meeting on 20 March attracted 18 people most of whom are keen to pursue philosophical discussions about matters of concern to the community that will result in an outcome. Those who attend meetings will determine subjects for discussion. Spiritual content will no doubt vary, however the intention is for Christ's perspective to be included in an opportunistic way as well as editorial summary of the matter at hand.

John Middleton

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