st michael's programs

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St Michael’s2015 Programs

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Contact Us120 Collins Street

Melbourne, VIC, 3000Phone: (03) 9654 5120

Website: stmichaels.org.auFacebook: stmichaelsmelbourne

Message from theCentre for Wellbeing Director,

Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks The Centre for Wellbeing at St Michael’s aims to provide numerous opportunities to engage in enjoyment and learning for people of any age or background, by offering various paths to greater wellbeing.

The Centre for Wellbeing is a hub for community engagement in Melbourne’s CBD. I hope that you will find something of interest at The Centre for Wellbeing to enhance your journey towards greater wellbeing.

Enjoy!

Message from theExecutive Minister, Dr Francis Macnab

St Michael’s has many unique features. All of them together make St Michael’s an extraordinary place.

Each of the programs in this booklet carries an invitation to everyone to find something that will enhance their life, bring them into contact with an enthusiastic group of people and help them to become part of a wider experience of wellbeing.

Wellbeing is a very personal quest, but it is greatly enriched when it occurs in the context of a flourishing resilient community.

I encourage everyone to help sustain such a community at St Michael’s.

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St Michael’s is a unique church dedicated to presenting relevant, contemporary preaching that embraces inner wellbeing as a core message.

Sunday services include a mix of traditional and contemporary presentations. Inspirational music is integral and most services include guest musicians, who perform between readings.

Here at St Michael’s we believe faith, spirituality and a meaning to life are vital ingredients for our health and wellbeing. We believe that there is a need to get hold of a more authentic religious understanding and to express it more confidently and diversely.

DATE SundaysTIME 10amMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Sundays at St Michael’s

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Music forms a vital part of the life of St Michael’s, just as it unifies and brings joy to people across cultures.

Each week world-class artists perform as part of the Sunday Service. St Michael’s is a truly stunning place to enjoy high quality musical performances.

Every Thursday at 1pm, the St Michael’s Carillon is sounded and the grand organ comes to life for a free 30 minute recital. Performed by organist and Manager of Music Rhys Boak and visiting artists, the recital brings the joy and beauty of live music to all who attend. Throughout the year a number of concerts are held in the Church to raise funds for important causes such as The Big Tent Project and mental health programs at St Michael’s. Visit our website for more information about upcoming music events.

DATE Thursdaysand SundaysMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Music at St Michael’s

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A peaceful, non-denominational, sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures.

Occasionally we need time to refocus: time to pause, time to reflect, time to let positive thoughts and positive emotions be strengthened. For this purpose Mingary, the Quiet Place was constructed.

Mingary is a place for personal reflection and a peaceful escape from the hectic demands of city life. It offers a haven where people may restore a sense of strength and vitality.

You are invited to visit Mingary, the Quiet Place and experience the healing, restoration, inspiration, vision and empowerment it can foster within you.

DATE & TIMES Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm Sundays: 8am-1pmADDRESS Russell Street entrance of St Michael’sENTRY FreeMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Mingary, The Quiet Place

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PROGRAMS, SEMINARS& WORKSHOPS

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Encouraging people to think before fighting.

Fight Free February is a seminar that explores the different ways to resolve what could turn into a fight: with partners, kids, colleagues, or…anyone.

The Centre for Wellbeing is proud to be part of Fight Free February by hosting an evening on maintaining healthy relationships and developing real strategies to deal with relationship challenges and relationship breakdowns. Includes a Q&A with experts from the fields of family law and psychology.

Presented by Jane Libbis of Bayside Collaborative Law, a family lawyer who understands the great need for communication skills and the ability to manage emotions in times of stress.

DATE 19 February TIME 6.30pm ROOM HallTICKETS Pay what you can*BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

FIGHT FREE FEBRUARYSEMINAR

*Pay-What-You-Can tickets can be purchased for as little as $2 per ticket. Book online and choose how much you want to pay to attend this event.

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What is the future of spirituality in Australia? What does research indicate about the likely direction of the spirituality of Australians?

Dr Philip Hughes, UCA minister and researcher from the Christian Research Association, will present research findings and lead a discussion on the future of religion and spirituality in Australia.

In this presentation Dr Hughes explores what we know about spiritual wellbeing from research in Australia and examines why many Australians refer to themselves as ‘spiritual but not religious’.

“Each individual could make their own decisions about religious faith as decisions of life-style.” - Philip Hughes

FUTURE SPIRITUALITYSEMINAR

DATE 22 FebruaryTIME 12pmROOM ChurchTICKETS Pay what you can*BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au


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SAGE offers psychological insights and information about healthy ageing in a friendly interactive forum.

Dr Francis Macnab created SAGE to help people build strategies to cope with the big stresses in the years post-55, reshape their meaning of life, deal with the fears that flit through these years, learn and live well.

Each month a SAGE seminar is held, focusing on a topic, such as finding life purpose, coping with the transitions of retirement and how to develop coping strengths in later years.

“The SAGE seminars attract so many older people and I’m not surprised considering the important topics they discuss, all of which help older people to age well.” - Noeline Brown

DATES 27 February27 March24 April29 May25 June31 July28 August24 September30 October27 NovemberTIME 11amROOM HallTICKETS $20 (includes lunch)BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SEMINAR SERIES

S.A.G.E SUCCESSFUL AGEING WITH GROWTH & ENHANCEMENT

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Melbourne International Comedy Festival favourite Nelly Thomas teams up with ABC Radio’s George McEncroe and Australia’s favourite Octogenarian Ethel Chop to honour mums this International Women’s Day.

From nappies to naughty nannas, Minecraft to (parenting) minefields, rest to respite; these three funny women will explore all the wonderful and not-so-wonderful aspects of contemporary parenting.

With several husbands and nine children between them, ranging from two to sixty-two years of age - this show promises to be a no-holds barred exposè on maternal matters.

DATE 5 MarchTIME 6.30pm ROOM ChurchTICKETS $20 / $30BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

Excellent comic timing The Age

Sidesplitting... Ethel Chop is hilarious

Sunday Times

Powell’s theatrical dexterity is first class.

Melbourne Star Observer

Many things concern Ethel Chop: unemployment, incorrect bus timeta-bles, the fact that today’s youth are all loopdeloo nutbags. Ethel’s wisdom and no-nonsense attitude to life means she’s perfect for your festival, corporate function or Christmas carols. Having lived through two wars and The Depression, she can still whip up a tasty casserole from an onion and an old shoe. And she can talk to anyone, about anything.

Book her now. Avoid Gout.

Australia’s Favourite Octogenarian

A BIT ABOUT ETHEL

YO MAMA: MOTHERING IN THE 21ST CENTURY

COMEDY EVENT

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LEGALWISE: WILLS & THE POWER OF ATTORNEY

DATE 13 MarchTIME 11amROOM HallTICKETS $10BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SEMINAR

Lawyer and Estate Planner Alan Farrar presents an informative seminar exploring the ins-and-outs of Powers of Attorney, Wills and Estate Management.

The laws regarding Powers of Attorney and Estate Management and Wills have recently changed which means many people who have made arrangements in the past need to learn about the new legislation in order to ensure that their wishes have been recorded in a legally valid manner.

This is a great opportunity to gain valuable information from a professional who will share his wisdom and experience on this sensitive and very important issue.

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PSYCHOTHERAPY ONSUNDAYS

DATES 22 March17 May19 July23 August18 OctoberTIME 12pmROOM HallTICKETS $10 per seminar$40 whole seriesBOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

LECTURE SERIES

Many people will never enter a Psychotherapist’s consulting room. But the teachings of psychotherapy could benefit people on a daily basis.

A series of five lectures led by Dr Francis Macnab, exploring a variety of topics that will be helpful to people in their everyday lives.

With more than 50 years of professional practice and over 25 published books, Dr Macnab is the founder of The Cairnmillar Institute and creator of the special form of psychotherapy – Contextual Modular Therapy (CMT).

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn valuable insights from one of Australia’s foremost Psychotherapists. This program is

part of our Spiritual Wellbeing Series

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LIVING MINDFULLYFIRST SESSION 17 April 11am Wellbeing StudioREPEAT SESSION23 Sept 6.30pmHallTICKETS $10BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

WORKSHOP

Living mindfully is not just about meditation, although it is a good way to start. Living mindfully is about deepening your perspective on life and gradually experiencing the world with less fear and worry and more confidence and calm.

Learning mindfulness skills will not only lessen your stress and anxiety - it will transform the way you experience your mind and emotions.

In this workshop you will learn two breathing techniques and a meditation exercise for mindfulness and be directed to further learning resources.

You will also receive ample inspiration and information to carry you forward to live more mindfully.

This program is part of our Spiritual Wellbeing Series

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STRESS LESS, LAUGH MOREDATE7 MayTIME 6.30pm ROOM ChurchTICKETS $20 / $30BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SPECIAL EVENT

A hilarious and educational evening that will enhance your wellbeing and your happiness, with comedian and clown doctor, Anthony Ackroyd.

Let’s face it – stress sucks! It sucks the joy and excitement out of life. But there is a solution. Renowned comedian and speaker Anthony Ackroyd can show you how to move out of stress and into positivity, creativity, happiness, fun and success!

Anthony Ackroyd’s stellar comedy career spans three decades and he continues to be one of Australia’s most successful stand up comics and comedy writers. He is currently one of the stars of ABC’s Thank God It’s Friday! which is the top rating radio comedy show in Australia.

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LAW WEEK EVENTDATE 14 MayTIME 6.30pm ROOM HallTICKETS Pay what you can*BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SEMINAR

What Makes Couples Stick? (or not Stick!?) Family Lawyer Jane Libbis and Psychologist Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks present this special 2015 Law Week seminar.

Dr Campbell-Tunks will explore what you need to create satisfying relationships, what soul-mated couples do right and what some couples so do wrong that they wind up needing a lawyer.

Jane Libbis will give you some great information about what to do if things go wrong and you find yourself in the realm of family law. Focusing on healthy, low stress ways to manage family disputes.

The seminar will run for approximately one hour plus a Q&A session afterwards.


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SPIRITUALITY IN CLINICAL PRACTICE

DATES 21 May 28 May 4 JuneTIME 6.30pm ROOM HallTICKETS $10 per seminar$25 whole seriesBOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SEMINAR

How is spirituality acknowledged in psychological practice? How does therapy and a person’s spirituality work together to benefit healing and support?

While a number of prominent psychology forefathers such as William James, Carl Jung, and Gordon Allport were keenly interested in the relationship between psychology and religion, most of professional and scientific psychology during the past century has avoided the connection between these two areas of inquiry. Join psychotherapist and minister Dr Francis Macnab, and Psychologists Dr Lynette Kramer and Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks as they discuss the connection between clinical practice and spirituality over a series of three insightful seminars.


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Euan Mitchell returns to the Centre for Wellbeing to present this inspiring writing workshop, suitable for anyone who has ever yearned to write their own book.

Euan Mitchell is an accomplished author and speaker, who, for the past two decades, has put words together for a living. He is the author of Feral Tracks dubbed the male version of Puberty Blues and the fast-paced, grungy portrayal of Australian Rock’n Roll Making Noise.

A great opportunity to learn from one of Australia’s finest authors.

DATE 11 JuneTIME 6.30pm ROOM ChurchTICKETS $15 / $20BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

WRITING SEMINARSEMINAR

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Love is one of life’s great mysteries but it does have its own logic and methods.

In this seminar you will learn:What makes people good at the art of intimate relating?How relationships disintegrate - even when you don’t expect it?How to heal conflict and not make it worse?How to strengthen love and admiration for each other?

Presented by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks, Psychologist and Couple Therapist.

FIRST SESSION 19 June 11amWellbeing StudioREPEAT SESSION16 July 6.30pmHallTICKETS $10BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

RELATIONSHIPS: SCHOOL OF LOVE

SEMINAR


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What is spiritual wellbeing, why do we need it and where does it come from?

Spiritual wellbeing is a difficult term to define, but research is taking us closer to a more definitive understanding. Spiritual wellbeing appears to be an integral part of our mental, emotional and physical health. It is also emerging as a primary coping resource in psychological literature.

The Centre for Wellbeing is developing its Spiritual Wellbeing programs in collaborative conversation with Professor Lisa Miller of LEO (Learning, Evolving, Opening), the Spirituality Mind Body Institute Wellness Centre, Columbia University.

In this workshop Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks will explore the components of spiritual wellbeing and examine how you can increase your own spiritual wellbeing.

FIRST SESSION 6 August 6.30pmHallREPEAT SESSION 21 August 11amWellbeing StudioTICKETS $10BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

WHAT IS SPIRITUAL WELLBEING?

WORKSHOP


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THE LABORASTORYDATE 19 AugustTIME 7pm ROOM ChurchTICKETS $20 / $15BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SPECIAL EVENT

An evening dedicated to the stories of science; the heroes, the egos, the breakthroughs and the mistakes. From forgotten history and lonely laboratories, science and scientists quite literally take centre stage.

Five scientists from diverse background share remarkable stories of the heroes of their field. They tell the tales of the tragedies and triumphs of the men and women who made science their passion, leaving legacies of ground-breaking discoveries that inspire the scientists of today.

The Centre for Wellbeing is proud to host this special National Science Week edition of The Laborastory. The shows have proven very popular and sell out fast, so make sure you book your tickets early!

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RISKS & OPPORTUNITIES: A WORLD IN FERMENT

DATES 1 September8 September15 September22 SeptemberTIME 6pmROOM HallTICKETS $15 per lecture$50 whole seriesBOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

LECTURE SERIES

We are delighted to have one of Australia’s leading International Relations scholars and commentators, Professor Joseph A. Camilleri OAM present this insightful lecture series.

In this four-lecture series Professor Camilleri interpret the most critical social, economic, environmental and security challenges of our times as they affect us personally and our life prospects, our networks and communities, our nation and the world.

Opening up new ways of thinking about the past and present and new possibilities for reshaping the future.

Please note there is limited seating for this series, book early to secure your tickets.

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Each year, during the celebrations of St Michael’s Day, we present The St Michael’s Medallion in recognition of an outstanding contribution to the community.

In the Biblical story, Michael was given the task of overthrowing the dragon, the symbol of destructiveness and violence. This award is designed to recognise individuals whose work assists in the prevention of violence, trauma and destructiveness and promotes growth, health and wellbeing.

Those who wear The St Michael’s Medallions are encouraging voices in the community. We are proud to affirm these individuals whose outstanding work might remain otherwise unrecognised.

DATE 27 September TIME10amMOREINFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

ST MICHAEL’S MEDALLIONAWARD

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Each year, on St Michael’s Day, we celebrate our contribution to the community.

The week preceding St Michael’s Day is filled with events that celebrate growth, health and wellbeing.

St Michael’s Day starts with a breakfast and an inspiring speaker. The Blessing of the Rocks precedes a special service in which The St Michael’s Medallions are awarded, followed by a fantastic morning tea and often an uplifting concert in the afternoon.

All the information about this exciting week in the St Michael’s calendar will be added to our website as events are confirmed.

We hope you will come along and be part of this enlivening week of festivities.

DATE 27 SeptemberMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

ST MICHAEL’S DAYSPECIAL EVENT

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AUSTRALIAWITH PROFESSOR JOSEPH CAMILLERI

DATE 29 SeptemberTIME 6pmROOM ChurchTICKETS $20BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

SEMINAR

Professor Joseph A. Camilleri OAM will present this special lecture in St Michael’s Church.

This special presentation will hold a spotlight on Australia: the aspirations and anxieties of a new generation; the changing fabric of Australian society; and the prospects of adjusting to the global power shift.

Professor Camilleri will interview two leading thinkers and practitioners on these and related issues and invite audience members to join in the conversation.

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WILMA & FRIENDS CONCERTDATE 13 NovemberTIME 7pmROOM ChurchTICKETS $30 / $20BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

CONCERT

Join us for an evening of inspirational chamber music.

A classical music quartet created by violinist Wilma Smith, in which she invites some of her remarkable colleagues to present a series of concerts casting a spotlight on their virtuosity and musicianship, as well as the beauty and intimacy of some of the most enjoyable chamber music in the repertoire.

All proceeds will go towards the wellbeing and mental health programs of St Michael’s.

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FORGIVENESS WORKSHOPDATE 20 NovemberTIME 11amROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $10BOOKINGS stmichaels.org.au

WORKSHOP

“Forgiveness is an ongoing process, not a moment in time.” - Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks

How do we forgive? What do we do with the unforgivable? How do we forgive ourselves for terrible mistakes?

Part of our Spiritual Wellbeing Series, join Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks as she guides a discussion and exploration of forgiveness as an essential aspect of mental health. This program is

part of our Spiritual Wellbeing Series

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MINDFULNESSE-COURSE

DATEStart anytimeself-paced e-course COST $47REGISTERstmichaels.org.au

ONLINE COURSE

Suitable for anyone who is interested in learning new ways to think about and manage stress and anxiety naturally.

This easy to follow seven module foundational e-course is presented by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks and will teach you how to use mindfulness to reduce anxiety and stress in your everyday life.

The course explores how mindfulness can bring your inherent emotional intelligence to the fore, which helps you to take charge of your life and deal directly with your thinking, emotions and the demands of everyday living.

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Wellbeing at St Michael’s

Wellbeing is a proactive stance towards health in all its aspects, and encompasses the many ways we can actively work towards a happier and more fulfilling life.

Wellbeing may best be defined in terms of elements that support it. For many people, connecting to a sense of meaning, purpose or faithin life, is central to their wellbeing. Internal conflict islessened when we develop personal values from our sense of meaning, and let those values guide our choices and actions.

Contemplative practices such as meditation, or experiences of ‘flow’ (when we are absorbed in creative or intellectual pursuits), can also assist a feeling of contentment in heart and mind through inspiration, greater ‘aliveness’ and the development of mindful self-awareness.

Mindful self-awareness is important to wellbeing because it allows us emotional freedom. Mindfulness empowers us to make choices in regard to unhelpful habits of mood and thinking, rather than feeling trapped in our suffering and anxieties.

For most people, social connections form part of a sense of meaning and self-worth. Satisfying, trusting relationships are also important facets of wellbeing. Being connected to a sense of something larger than just oneself and being part of a community can offer such support.

Not least, care of the physical body is a vital component of whole person wellbeing.

St Michael’s is a space dedicated to wellbeing in the heart of Melbourne, offering events, seminars and interest groups. Our aim is to create opportunities to enhance the human spirit, contribute to a healthier world by inspiring hearts and minds to grow and to promote happiness and participation across the lifespan.

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SUNDAY PROGRAMS

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French Conversation

Join native French speaker, Johanna Hersey, for a fun and informal French conversation class where all are welcome to practice their French and receive some pointers in basic French conversation skills.

Beginners and fluent speakers alike will find someone to chat to in French and help and guidance on hand.

DATES 8 March 3 May12 July2 August6 September4 October1 NovemberTIME11.45amROOM Waratah RoomMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Mobile Minds

Expand the usefulness and enjoyment of your phone and tablet in this friendly forum exploring how mobile technology can have a positive impact on our lives.

Bring out your inquisitive nature with these workshops designed to share new and interesting apps and activities, and learn new ideas for both Android and iOS devices. Participants are encouraged to “show and tell” their favorite apps and ideas.

This workshop is complemented by our blog which will contain notes from each meeting, ideas for upcoming meetings and general ideas and comments from any interested mobile device user. You can access the blog by visiting www.themobileminds.blogspot.com.au.

DATES 8 March 3 May12 July2 August6 September4 October1 NovemberTIME11.45amROOM Wellbeing StudioMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Sunday Programs

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Sunday Programs

DATES 15 February12 April5 July13 September29 NovemberTIME11.45amROOM Waratah RoomMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

New Faith Discussion Group

Dean of Programs at St Michael’s, Neil Blood, leads a study group to discuss the theology of St Michael’s as presented by its Minister of 44 years, Dr Francis Macnab in his book, Discover a New Faith: Energy for a Better Life.

Discussions follow a particular theme each session and involve taking an in depth look at the humanistic philosophy of this unique place, as described through the chapters of the book.

Philosophy for Beginners: Thinking Outside The Square

A lively, interactive discussion group, presented by Dr Peter Kingsbury, focusing on thinking outside the square. Designed to inspire creative and innovative thinking.

DATES The last Sunday of each month excluding Jan, Sep and DecTIME11.45amROOMKurrajong RoomMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

DATES 12 April: Islamic Museum21 June:Jewish Museum9 August:Buddhist Centre 11 October: Immigration Museum

Searchers’ Group Excursions

This open and reflective group invites you to explore other religious and cultural institutions of Melbourne.

Contact Simon McCall on 0450 216 440 for details.

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All Weather Walkers

A friendly walking group meeting on the second Saturday of each month, walking 3-4km or more, at varied locations around Melbourne.

The pace is steady but gentle. Walks are only postponed in the event of extreme weather forecasts Twice yearly there is also a full-day excursion organised for walkers.

DATES Visit Website for dates and times MORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Poetry Group

A group that meets to read poetry, share work and be inspired about all things poetry. This group aims to cultivate an atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to explore the wonders of poetry in a supportive and fun environment.

Facilitated by Dr Peter Kingsbury this program is free of charge and there is no need to book in advance.

DATES 2nd Sunday of each month, commencing March 8TIME11.45amROOMCamellia RoomMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

The Last Tuesday Book Group

The “Last Tuesday” open book discussion group meets 7pm - 8.30pm on the last Tuesday of most months. Please check the website for details of books to be discussed.

Tea and coffee are provided. There is no charge but you will need to obtain your own copy of the book to read before the discussion group takes place.

DATES Last Tuesday of each monthTIME7pmROOMSt Michael’s LibraryMORE INFORMATIONstmichaels.org.auor call 9654 5120

Sunday Programs

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Mingary Counselling Service

Confidential, low-cost counsellingIf you are seeking relief from painful or stressful experiences, assistance with major life changes or help reducing anxiety, fear and uncertainty, call Mingary Counselling services to make an appointment today.

Or visit The Quiet Place (pictured above): a peaceful, nondenominational sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures. Open 8am to 5pm weekdays and 8am to 1pm Sundays; enter from the Russell Street side of St Michael’s.

St Michael’s Place, 120 Collins Street, Melbournewww.mingarycounselling.com.au | (03) 9654 5120

st michael's programs

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