ACL 26th June 2014

26 June 2014

There are only a couple of days left to give before the end of ACL’s financial year appeal. Thank you to those who have donated to see a voice for values in our nation.

With the Australian Senate changing on July 1st, today is the last day of ‘work’ for many senators.

ACL’s Managing Director Lyle Shelton reflects on the departing speeches of the Senators.

Read his blog post here.

Tomorrow is the closing date for applications for the Lachlan Macquarie Internship. Do you know someone who is interested in public life and would benefit from a three month leadership internship?

Also in ENews we report on Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells statement in the Senate this week highlighting the plight of Assyrian Christian in Iraq.

Also recently the government has launched its trial of $200 vouchers for marriage and relationship counselling. Read more.

Lastly we applaud the work of Western Australian MP Nick Goiran who has exposed the realities of abortion practice in the state in a recent speech to parliament. Read more.

ACL Team

Don’t forget to sign the submission into the senate inquiry opposing the recognition of overseas same-sex marriages.

Why politics needs you

By Lyle Shelton

Valedictory speeches give an all-too-rare glimpse of the humanity of our parliamentarians.

If someone is giving one, it means they have either lost an election or have achieved the holy grail of politics – retiring at a time of one’s choosing.

MP highlights reality of abortion practice in WA

In a speech to parliament last week, Western Australian MP Nick Goiran exposed the realities of abortion practices in the state, particularly in cases where the condition of the unborn child is clearly compatible with life.

Senator speaks out for Assyrian Christians

An Australian Senator has brought the attention of the Senate to the plight of the Assyrian community in Iraq. Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells spoke in relation to the Assyrian community both in Iraq and those in Australia.

Outgoing Labor Senator John Hogg reflects on his 18 years in public life

In one of his last interviews as a parliamentarian, retiring Catholic Labor Senator and President of the Senate John Hogg, speaks to the ACL’s Katherine Spackman about his time in politics. His comments are a challenge to Christians as he urges people not to place their faith, hope and trust in parliamentarians.

Read more plus audio interview

The government’s Stronger Relationships trial begins

The government is looking for existing providers of relationship education or counselling to help deliver the Stronger Relationships trial. The trial is part of the Department of Social Services’ Families and Communities Program seeking to support families and improve children’s wellbeing by providing $200 vouchers to up to 100,000 couples to access relationship education and/or counselling services.

Religion vital to Australian education

Recent press reports have seriously misrepresented the position of the Anglican Education Commission on public education policy. The commission has not called for the scrapping of the chaplaincy program or for the replacement of Special Religious Education (Scripture) in NSW schools.

ACL welcomes release of Meriam Ibrahim from death sentence and prison

The Australian Christian Lobby has welcomed the release of the Sudanese Christian woman, Meriam Ibrahim, who had been sentenced to death by hanging for converting to Christianity.

Meriam was briefly detained at the Khartoum airport as she tried to leave the country according to recent reports.

In the media – a wrap up of the last week’s commentary

In the last week, the ACL has been quoted in the media on the issue of euthanasia.

Pastors Short Course – July 15 to 17th

As part of the vision to develop leaders in public life, the Lachlan Macquarie Internship also offers short courses for pastors and church leaders. It’s an opportunity to network and discuss how the Gospel’s message can impact politics. There are only a limited number of spaces offered for the three day course to ensure pastors can get the most out of time spent with Christian parliamentarians, strategists, law experts and leaders.

This program will empower church leaders with a greater understanding of the democratic process and inspire you with the impact the church can have on society. It will challenge you to think politically and strategically about issues facing Christians in Australia and around the world.

The next course will be held July 15th – 17th.

The cost is $250 and covers program, food and accommodation. Fill out thisapplication form to apply or call 02 6259 0431.

For the diary – a selection of upcoming events

7 August – Seminar, Ethical Supply Chains – How do we ensure human rights are protected?, NSW