Resourcing missions
Anglican Resources
Anglican Resources began operating in mid February 2008, following the decision to close the Anglican Book Room at the end of January.
The idea arose from a discussion in November 2007 at St Mark's Bellerive between Stephen Carnaby, Priest in Charge, and parishioner Judy Goede, a Book Room volunteer. This began with regrets expressed at the coming closure of the Book Room, and the loss that this would be to its customers, especially for low cost, Christian greeting cards, and for things Anglican not otherwise obtainable in Tasmania.
From this, a proposal was put to Bellerive Parish Council that a much smaller enterprise, offering a limited range of products, be established and based in the parish, with all profits to go to missions.
This was agreed to and interim funds were provided to help set up the business. Initial stock was obtained from the Book Room at closing sale prices, and introductory flyers were sent out to regular Book Room customers.
Also, Dorothy Stephens of the Book Room was very helpful with advice and information on contacts and suppliers.
From the beginning the object has been to continue providing a service to Anglicans and interested others by supplying ‘things Anglican’ (such as communion breads, baptism and confirmation requirements, service registers, prayer books, lectionaries) and greeting cards, Bible reading notes, and a selection of books for enquirers into Christianity and Christian development.
Because of space limitations the decision was made not to stock altar candles or general Christian books – these can be bought from other Tasmanian sources. Costs to the parish arising from the enterprise (use of display and storage space,office space and equipment) are part of parish Mission giving.
Distribution of profits is at the beginning of the financial year, following stocktaking. Profits are divided equally between the Anglican Board of Mission – Australia, the Bush Church Aid Society and the Church Missionary Society.
Why not pay a visit to Anglican Resources at St Mark's Church, Cnr Scott and Clarence Sts, Bellerive?