ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PROGRAM
ABM has a rich and complicated history of involvement with the First Nations peoples of Australia, including some significant failings. We believe that the task of working for reconciliation within Australia is integral to mission.
Our Church is blessed by the sacrificial ministry of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglicans. These leaders are often working with vastly inadequate resources, and in situations of very high need. ABM strives to correct that inequity by channelling the generous giving of the wider church to equip Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders to carry out the work they are called to do.
ABM believes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have unique gifts for our Church. ABM supports the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council (NATSIAC) and the National Aboriginal Bishop in their call to elevate the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the church, and in society. We believe that the voices emerging from the struggles of people marginalised in our own society help us to hear what the Spirit is saying to the church, and to prophetically imagine the future God is calling us into together.
Australia Projects
“The Coming of the Light”
Support the Meriba Maygi Zageth Anglican Council and the work of the Melanesian Brothers in the Torres Strait as they celebrate ‘the Coming of the Light’.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Mission Grants
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mission Grants support grassroots mission and ministry initiatives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Gawura School
Support First Nations students as they progress through their education in a supportive and enriching environment.
NATSIAC
NATSIAC’s vision is to be the primary voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglicans, promoting Gospel mission, encouraging ministry, and generating resources.
Nungalinya College
Support Nungalinya College in the Northern Territory to deliver their Foundation Studies courses to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, as they prepare to lead their churches and communities.
Reconciliation
Work towards Reconciliation is an important manifestation of mission. ABM seeks to build platforms for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglicans to speak prophetically to the wider church.
The Diocese of North Queensland
Support the aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglicans in the Diocese of North Queensland as autonomous Anglican councils provide local ministry and mission.
The Diocese of the Northern Territory
Support Aboriginal communities in the Diocese of the Northern Territory to strengthen their churches and give them a voice in the diocese, so that their needs and aspirations are recognised and implemented.
Walkabout Ministries (The Reverend Gloria Shipp)
Support Walkabout Ministries as the Reverend Gloria Shipp ministers to Aboriginal people where they are.
Wontulp-Bi-Buya College
Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to become leaders in their church and communities through an education at Wontulp-Bi-Buya College.
PRAYERS FOR RECONCILIATION
We offer these prayers to the church – they may be used during the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation, NAIDOC week or indeed at any time.