Aboriginal Ministry in Central Australia

Lutheran ministry amongst the 6000 Aboriginal Christians in Central Australia is conducted under the auspices of the Finke River Mission Board. The area encompasses more than 60 communities with 4 main Aboriginal language groups (Arrarnta, Pitjantjatjara, Luritja, Alyawarr). An FRM staff team of pastors, linguists, maintenance workers, an accountant, and a store manager supports the local communities. FRM encourages the establishment of local, independent, self-supporting congregations. The first two Aboriginal pastors were ordained in 1964. Now there are 20 pastors serving local communities. The theological and literacy training of pastors is an ongoing task carried out in conjunction with the Australian Lutheran College. Yirara College, in Alice Springs, is a Lutheran boarding school providing education for post-primary children from Aboriginal communities in Central Australia. Scripture translation is being undertaken by several skilled linguists working in close cooperation with groups of indigenous co-translators. Translation activities include the Luritja Bible; Alyawarr gospels and hymnbook; selected Old Testament books in Pitjantjatjara as well as a series of reading primers, recordings of hymns and Christian songs; and the beginnings of translation work for an Anmatyerr Bible. Read more about FRM work and Aboriginal Christianity in Central Australia in “From Mission to Church”, Paul Albrecht's expansive publication. The book is still available from the FRM office. Contact the Finke River Mission Board

Unique Australian Christmas Cards by Aboriginal Artists

Card ID :: C7

Papunya artists Charlotte Phillipus, Narlie Nelson and Maureen Poulson have reflected their Aboriginal culture in their joint painting of the nativity.

They well understand that the Saviour came at Christmas for Aboriginal people too, so they clearly depict an Aboriginal infant Jesus, and Mary and Joseph. Australian native animals, not sheep, come to honour the Child.

Card ID :: C8

Alice Springs artist, Karina Penhall presents a manger scene combining her traditional Aboriginal dot painting style with some aspects of western art.

In the centre of the curved wind break (stable) lies a coolamon, a wooden Aboriginal carry basket symbolising the baby Jesus. On either side is a 'U'shape symbolising a seated person, Mary and Joseph. In front of the coolamon are three wise men with their gifts and behind them are others such as the shepherds, who also come to the manger to worship the Child. Above, Bethlehem's star lights the way.

Click here to order the Pack of 10 Christmas Cards.
Each pack contains 5 of each of the above mentioned cards.

Christ in the Centre Newsletter

Christ In The Centre - Previous Editions

Download the Summer 2007 newsletter
Download the Winter 2007 newletter

130th Anniversary of the arrival of first missionaries at Hermannsburg

In June this year we celebrate with joy and thanks to God, the 130th anniversary of the arrival of first missionaries at Hermannsburg in Central Australia. This was the beginning of the work amongst the aboriginal people in that area, which we know as the Finke River Mission of the Lutheran Church of Australia.

Prayer Points

• We give thanks to God as we celebrate the 130th anniversary of the establishment of the Finke River Mission as a unique and distinct church agency for the training, translation, linguistic and ministry to the Aboriginal congregations, communities, Pastors and Evangelists in Central Australia.
• We ask you to pray Mr Simon Dixon who is to be ordained on 17th June to serve the aboriginal people in the Alice Springs area and with a particular ministry at Yirara College.
• We also you to pray for the other 5 aboriginal candidates who are preparing for ordination later this year, to serve their congregations / communities in Central Australia.

Holiday in the Red Centre

Join one of the nine-day FRM Come and See tours in autumn or spring. Highlights include popular tourist sites, visits to indigenous communities and meeting aboriginal pastors. Travel in air-conditioned coaches and enjoy comfortable 3-4 star accommodation. Most meals are provided, including a bush picnic lunch with billy tea. For more information contact the FRM office.

Private tourists are reminded to check the following before travelling in Central Australia:

• the availability of accommodation and camping facilities, permits to enter Aboriginal Land/Reserves,
• passes for National Parks, and current road conditions (phone 1800 246 199).

Support the Ministry

Help the congregations of Central Australia to grow. Pray for the pastors and their congregational members. Pray for staff working in the field on translation and training work and support services:

Consider:

• sending a (tax deductible) donation
• making a bequest for the work to continue after your death
• learning more about FRM work
• request a copy of the latest Christ in the Centre

FRM Postcards

FRM Postcards contain photos and information on the work of Finke River Mission (FRM). Read about the areas of ministry in this region in the centre of Australia. Use these prayer cards daily in your personal and family devotions. Place them on your fridge or desk or elsewhere as reminders to pray. Utilise them in your congregation, Sunday school, auxiliaries and small groups. Remember FRM workers and the indigenous people of Central Australia in prayer. View the 6 of the postcards listed below or send for your own complete set of 12 postcards.

Resources