The Commission organized the 2022 fundraising dinner on 5th of August 2022 at Edessa Hall, St Hurmizd Assyrian Church of the East Cathedral in Greenfield Park. MC: Mrs Mandy Tibbey. The keynote speaker was Ms Brooke Prentis, who spoke on the topic “5 years since the Statement from the Heart: Ecumenism and Reconciliation for Healing”. Special Guest Speaker Mar Meelis Zaia could not attend due to illness, his speech was delivered by Father Ramen Youkhanis, topic: “Planning for the Future: New Theological College”.

The Prayer for Christian Unity preceded the event at the above-mentioned Cathedral, the homilist was Madame President Reverend Myung Hwa Park. 

As a response to the work of the commissions, Prof. Diane Speed from Theological Reflection Commission presented the e-book she has written with Reverend Doru Costache about the Ut Unum Sint whereas Deacon Oliver Slewa made a presentation on the topic:” Safe Home Safe Families”.

The guests were entertained by the choir of the Church of South India and the Assyrian folkloric dance group.

The net income from the function was above $15000. $20000 was the target. The commission bought three Square Reader devices to use during the Dinner. The devices can be used by the Council for different purposes at different occasions.

During the dinner, the “Friends of NSWEC” program was launched by Reverend Park. 

At the Zoom meeting held 4th of August the members of the Fund-Raising Commission analyzed the strengths and the weaknesses of the function. As for 2023, the Fund-Raising Dinner and the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was decided to hold on 21st of May 2023 at St Paul Anglican Cathedral, Burwood. The premises have been reserved by Reverend James Collins who will host the event.

The Commission thanks all those who worked for the success of the event.

The work for 2023 has already commenced. The Commission kindly requests your support and participation to make 2023 a better year. 

Sincerely

Fundraising Commission  

17 September 2022