Rector of the Corowa Anglican Parish, Mother Jane quietly marked a milestone last Wednesday- 100 days of service in the local community.
Since her appointment last year by Bishop Donald Kirk of the Riverina Diocese, Mother Jane has swiftly become a beloved figure in the community, bringing her wealth of knowledge and experience to her role overseeing St Mark’s Bungowannah, St Thomas’ Howlong, and St John’s Corowa.
With a Bachelor of Theology and an Advanced Diploma in Ministry from the Melbourne College of Divinity, Mother Jane’s journey to Corowa has been one of resilience and dedication. Before calling Corowa her home, she spent just over a year in Myrtleford, supported by her colleague, Mother Moira Evers.
The two made the journey south from Queensland together after Mother Jane faced the unfortunate loss of her house due to floods.
Despite these initial challenges, Mother Jane expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be closer to her family in Melbourne.
In August, she received permission to officiate, obtaining a license allowing her to contribute to Anglican church parishes and offer support when needed. She also had a three-month stint in Europe and assisted in the communities of Bright and Whorouly.
Ordained for 12 years, Mother Jane has served in various parishes, hospitals, and schools.
Her journey into the clergy is unique, not growing up in a church family, but finding the seeds of her faith journey in Sunday School, with a desire to lead a congregation.
Her encounter with the call to ministry occurred in 2004, a pivotal moment following a difficult marriage breakdown.
Seeking solace and direction, Mother Jane attended a service at St Peter’s East Melbourne. It was during this service that the priest posed a question that would alter the course of her life: “Have you ever heard God’s call and ignored it?”
“That was the opening liner. I thought, is that what was going on at school when I thought I wanted to do that job? Was that God moving in me?” she said.
Intrigued and inspired, she introduced herself to the priest and requested a meeting, leading to a pivotal coffee conversation that changed the trajectory of her life.
The priest, recognising the potential for Mother Jane to answer a higher calling, suggested she speak with others within the church about the possibility of ordination.
This marked the beginning of a lengthy and challenging process involving discussions with clergy and bishops at each stage. Despite facing scepticism from a bishop early on due to her status as a divorced mother, Mother Jane persevered.
“It takes seven years - it’s quite an arduous process,” she said.
“I was told by that bishop that they had never ordained a single mother - it would be impossible for me. However, since then, they have ordained many single mums with kids.”
Commencing her studies in 2005, Mother Jane navigated the intricate journey of theological training and spiritual preparation. Her ordination in 2011 marked the culmination of years of dedication, overcoming societal norms, and breaking barriers within the institution.
“I have found my journey at times challenging with the institution - especially being a woman. We all resist change. But in no way have I found my personal relationship with God a challenge,” she said.
“If I were doing an overview of my life in the clergy, I would say it’s been rich, diverse, and I wouldn’t change anything.”
Reflecting on her 100 days in Corowa, Mother Jane emphasised her conscious effort to ease into her role without making too many changes.
“I have tried to be authentically myself - not change myself to please the congregation yet not alienated from them,” she shared.
Among the changes she implemented, the adjustment of service times proved to be the most challenging, aiming to enhance her presence in both Howlong and Corowa.
Mother Jane expressed her fondness for Corowa and the warmth she has received.
“I love that it’s on the Murray and is only 10 minutes from Rutherglen,” she said.
“I like that it’s not too far from Melbourne, as my dad and one of my daughters live there.
“I like the size of the town. It has some fabulous facilities. The pool is brilliant. I like that I can walk to the shops or the pub for dinner.
“And it’s beautiful along the Murray. It’s a different kind of culture from what I’m used to, but I think I’m adapting. “And we’ve got Howlong and Bungowannah, too, which are both great places. Three very different communities.”
Mother Jane extends a warm welcome to anyone who would like to attend a service in Corowa, Howlong or Bungowannah, highlighting the inclusivity of the local parish.
