Each year QCT receives reports on the activities of local ecumenical groups, some of which have been working steadily together for many years. The Border Council of Churches is one of these. The following is their account of activities in 2008:

“During 2008, the Border Council continued to foster ecumenism in the NSW Queensland border region through our meetings each two months, and by facilitating four ecumenical services in our member churches, each followed by a time of fellowship and a legendary supper – surely the essence of ecumenism!  These activities have built up a core of loyal and enthusiastic support among the clergy and their congregations.

The major recurring themes this year have been our interest in the conduct of religious education in schools and school chaplaincy.  Representatives from Tweed Coast Christian Education Association (TCCEA) and Scripture Union were invited to make a presentation at two of our meetings.  We were later able to make a significant financial contribution to the TCCEA through the freewill offerings received from a non-denominational service conducted by our members for delegates at a state conference of the Country Women’s Association.

Concern for homeless people
A further concern has been the plight of homeless people in our district and the need for better facilities to alleviate their distress.  Early in the year, our meeting was addressed by John Lee who was seeking assistance from churches to establish a drop-in centre for homeless people.  Although we were not in a position to offer any direct assistance, we were able to bring these issues to the attention of member parishes located in these areas.  Mr Lee is currently seeking the assistance of congregations in petitioning local and state government to provide additional facilities for homeless people in the area and again we have provided a forum.  Mr Lee is the founder of a charitable organisation You Have a Friend Inc. A desire to provide some practical assistance for homeless people in the Coolangatta/Tweed district led the Tweed Catholic parish to initiate a regular Lunch in the Park program, assisted by neighbouring churches.

Part of the wider community
We have also taken a keen interest in community events in the district, including Wintersun and the Annual Fun Day.  A number of member parishes participate directly in various ways.

Our regular meetings have built up firm and strategic friendships, together with a desire to look for new ways in which our member churches can work co-operatively.”

John Luxton
Secretary