Bush camp provides learning opportunities

Bush camps are held several times each year to support the ministry of Aboriginal pastors, evangelists, church workers and church leaders serving the approximately 6,000 Aboriginal Lutherans across Central Australia. ALC has a long and continuing commitment to support the training of Aboriginal church workers, with lecturers travelling to teach at these gatherings several times a year. 

Lecturer, Tom Brennen, was blessed to represent ALC at the July bush camp held in Areyonga, around 2½ hours west of Alice Springs. The camp was situated in a beautiful part of the local community, surrounded by rocky outcrops. The weather was unusually wet and even fog rolled in. Dinner was interrupted on the second night by a visit from a ‘Jesus donkey’, named for the cross of black hair along their backs and shoulders. Read more

During the camp, recently installed Assistant Bishop for the Northern Territory, Pastor Stephen Radke, led a study on the Gospel according to John, exploring the many signs that point us to Jesus and reveal who he is.

A highlight of the gathering was a service of worship led by Pastor Abraham and Bishop Stephen, that brought together members of the Areyonga community and bush camp participants. 

Tom concluded the gathering with a study on 1 Kings 3:1–15. Reflecting on Solomon's prayer for wisdom, he reminded those gathered that God comes to us in worship through his Word and Sacraments—a promise Luther repeatedly emphasised. He encouraged the pastors, evangelists, support workers, and even the bishop with the good news that we can all pray Solomon's prayer: "Lord, you have given me a great task, and I cannot do it without you." God delights to hear that prayer and continues to bless his servants with everything they need for their calling.

Please pray for the Aboriginal pastors, evangelists, and church workers who faithfully proclaim Christ to our sisters and brothers across Central Australia, and for the ongoing partnership between ALC and the Lutheran Church as we continue to support their ministry.