A note from Keith
2 July 2010
Dear Friends,
I wanted to share with you regarding two significant events that have taken place this week.
Last Sunday, June 27, we acknowledged the history of Lifeline and the commitment of three people who helped to launch Lifeline 47 years ago. This was marked in the dedication of three telephone booths named after Rev Dr Sir Alan Walker, Ivan Reichelt, and Ron Freer (who still volunteers as a supervisor to this day). It is interesting that the original telephone used to answer the first Lifeline call is now part of our history wall in the foyer of our headquarters in Pitt Street. Take time to have a look.
On Tuesday, June 29, I led a service, including Holy Communion, at R J Williams Lodge to acknowledge the closure of this centre. The building was being run as a motel in 1974 when Wesley Mission purchased the property and, from its earliest days, it provided accommodation and care for people in need. Memorably, on Christmas Eve 1974, Australia was shocked by the devastation caused by Cyclone Tracy in Darwin. Wesley Mission stepped forward to assist by giving shelter to some of the victims until their homes were rebuilt.
In April 1975, R J Williams Lodge was reopened as an Aged Care facility, providing care for 82 residents. Down the years, the residents have changed but we have maintained a high level of concern and care. ‘R J,’ as it is affectionately known, has been at the very heart of our care services … and the dedication and professionalism of its staff has been widely recognised by the community.
It is sad that we have to close centres or facilities, but it is important to remind ourselves that we remain committed to serving the most vulnerable. Planning is already underway for the establishment of a new facility to replace ‘R J.’ I paid tribute to our staff, volunteers and residents for the way they have faced what has been a challenging time for many. We can now look to the future with confidence.
Both events this week are reminders that our work both stretches back into the past and moves into the future. The one constant is the need in our community which, though often changing in shape and presentation, remains a continual challenge to all those who seek to be responsive to those who look to us for help.
At the service at R J Williams I offered a prayer which seems appropriate for all our work:
Loving God, we thank you for our past,
and we ask your guidance for the future.
Help us to learn from everything that has been,
so that we can make the most of what is,
and work wisely towards what shall be.
Take us now, and lead us forward,
in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Warmly yours
Rev Dr Keith V Garner
Superintendent
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