Where Do We Go From Here

7 WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Acknowledgements Matthew and I would like to acknowledge that we are middle-aged, middle- class white guys. And we’re clergy! Acts is largely a story written by men, about men - and written at a time when that was the norm. We can’t do much about that. What we can do is say that we are deeply convinced that God’s story is for all people, regardless of gender, race or sexuality. That’s how we read it, despite our innate biases and cultural short-sightedness. That means it’s also your story and, because God’s story lives in you, you might well disagree with some things we say or suggest. Good! Disagree, name it and give us grief. We seek truth together and no-one is helped if we’re always polite. The church grows stronger in a crucible fired by diverse and passionate voices and by disciples seeking to discover what God is up to – and to join in. We’d like to thank ABM for the invitation to write these studies. The Anglican Board of Mission – Australia is a wonderful organisation and a gift to the wider church, most clearly evident in its willingness to listen voices from the ‘edge’ and to take necessary and godly risks. Particular thanks to John Deane, the Executive Director, and to the Education Team – the humble but brilliant Brad Chapman, the prophetic and spiky Celia Kemp and the generous, nurturing and passionate Jazz Dow. And, of course, our love and thanks to Liz and Vanessa. There are no words. These studies were written at ‘Campfire in the Heart’ in Alice Springs. We express our gratitude to Sue and David Woods; elders, legends and leaders. While the book was a collaborative effort and we edited each other’s work, the ‘A Close Reading’ sections are primarily Matt’s work and the rest is mostly Steve. We acknowledge the original custodians of this land and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future; for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and the hope of Australia.