HAVE WE FORGOTTEN WHO WE CAN BE?
More than ever, we need to be nest builders. As a Franciscan and a Social Worker who has supported people over many years – I am now 80 – I have seen the lasting effect that stress; feelings of powerlessness; and lack of care and support has on people’s lives. At this...
Hope will be forged! – By Judy Clingan
When I first read your invitation to write words on HOPE, I felt unable to make any meaningful contribution, as I confess that at times I become so deeply despairing of humanity’s appalling behaviour, in regard to the worldwide avoiding of any solid action on climate...
Some thoughts on HOPE – By Pen Tayler
Photo by Pen Tayler Since Laurel mentioned that the theme for the spring newsletter was hope, I’ve been thinking a lot about what hope means and how it functions in our lives. I’ve also had some very interesting discussions with friends regarding hope. Recently I...
Equity in Education this year – NEST
The Out of Classroom ‘Hands on Learning’ students have been hard at work building a protective weather awning for their classes. They’ve done a great job so far while learning new skills to enhance their future employment prospects. We congratulate them and their...
Reflections upon reading the Elm Grove Story for a second time – By Sr. Mary Magdalen o.c.d.
Some very recent excerpts from Carmelite Sister Mary Magdalen’s reflections after her second reading of ‘The Elm Grove Story’. ‘It’s been a long time since I first wrote to you, following Ian Wilson’s “introduction”. I am re-reading The Elm Grove Story currently, and...
Book Offer and Reviews – The Elm Grove Story
For those unfamiliar with how the Trust came to be established, Edwin and I are offering copies of our book at a reduced price. Christmas break gives the opportunity for some reading time or for gifting a book. Our memoir is available for AUD $22 plus postage (approx....
Finding balance through action and contemplation – By Laurel Clare LFSF
As we came together for our 2025 AGM my thoughts had been with the importance of balance for our board members and the direction of our charity. Our lives get caught up with action so easily, and I feel that it is important for us to consider this as a group, so I...
Some Reflections on Hope – By Rev. Dr. David Oliphant
In her words of Welcome to the Spring 2025 Newsletter, Laurel wrote: … ‘I feel to share something with our readers that touches on the ENERGY of HOPE. Elm Grove Sanctuary was founded as a Centre of Hope. Hope – not a nebulous term but rather a most affirming and...
Elm Grove Sanctuary – A Centre of HOPE – By Laurel Clare LFSF
The following extract from Chapter 13 (page 223) of our book ‘The Elm Grove Story’ – a mystical journey perhaps defines the challenge that our world now needs urgently to address. The need for a Universal Spirituality that moves beyond the divisions created by various...
Update on Support for Palestinian Families – By Laurel Clare LFSF
On behalf of our Trust, I wish to thank everyone for their wonderful support. As a very small charity I feel that we have been achieving well above expectations. It is only possible because we have the support of some truly caring and compassionate donors who trust...