Invisible No More
This is the story of the foundation and development of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Melbourne 1984 to 1996 recorded by artist Jillimablu (George Riley), a descendant of the Djabugay people of North Queensland, who now lives in Melbourne. He has depicted significant events of the time-lime in a series of stunning paintings. Jillimablu’s paintings show the movement of the Spirit as we journey towards acceptance of our cultural contribution to the Australian Catholic Church.
The Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Melbourne grew from a dream - a dream of belonging, of identity, of ownership and of the unity of Aboriginal people.
This dream grew among our founders. They share the dreams in prayer, faith and love. The dream was a seed, planted and nurtured with patience, hard work and courage.
Their hard work and steadfastness were rewarded as shoots began to spring from the seed. This new growth grew into a sacred place - a place that offers shelter, love and acceptance to those who come.
The Seed has Grow
The Seed has Grown continues the ACMV story.
The authors of The Seed Has Grown reveal culture at work. Culture is strong and culture is alive. They open the story of the gift of Aboriginal Spirituality and the struggle over the years with the various authorities within the Catholic Church to accept the gift of who we are. Many may ask why the members of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry bothered when they have such a rich relationship with the Creator Spirit that has been nurtured for thousands of years before Abraham.
The answer is truly within The Seed Has Grown - in the ceremonies, liturgies, gatherings, and projects that show why they bothered.
What a true model of reconciliation - black feet, white feet proudly walking together in the footsteps of the Aboriginal Ancestors across country! Strong relationships enabled us to feel that we were part of a bigger family. It must be said that the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry would not be the vibrant ministry it is today if wasn’t for the volunteers working side by side, praying together, forming relationships that are no different to family.
You will be amazed by the incredible partnerships and trust that have been formed with thousands of students, hundreds of teachers, educators and curriculum writers. All have been touched by:
- The generosity of spirit of the ACMV members
- School liturgies that bring life to our catholic identity
- Local stories told
- Curriculum that faces the truth with a fresh look at Australian history that does not begin in 1788.
The Seed Has Grown will give all those who read it (especially those who have been connected to Aboriginal Catholic Ministry) a trip down memory lane and new learnings to those who have never heard of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry for Victoria.