The Team
St Paul’s People
Reverend Andrew Cooper
What I do at St Paul’s: Priest in Charge
Something about being part of St Paul’s that gives me joy is the warm welcome and commitment to open inclusive church I experience and we offer to all who walk into our community.
Originally from Tasmania, I worked in education and the community sector before ordination in 2010. I’ve walked along folk as their priest in Stafford, Gympie, Bulimba and in Jedburgh in Scotland. I have training in education, counselling, theology and spiritual direction and love a cuppa and chat.
Jen Crisp
What I do at St Paul's: People’s Warden, Liturgical Assistant, tech operator, reader, chief roster writer and occasional spontaneous singer.
Something about St Paul's that gives me joy is its loving people.
Rob Wilson
What I do at St Paul's: Priest's Warden, Liturgical Assistant, web master and tech support.
Something about being a part of St Paul's that gives me joy: I cherish the opportunities to spend time with and walk alongside so many wonderful people. Many have been pillars in St Paul's and the broader local community for decades. I truly value our chats after services and at other times, gaining incredible insights into our community and its rich history in the region
Stephen Hall
What I do at St Paul’s: I have been a member of St Paul’s Manly for six years now, I’m in my fourth year as a parish councillor, and second as Synod representative. I am our WH&S Coordinator as well.
My favourite scripture passage is the 23rd Psalm because it encapsulates everything that is Christian and how I see life: love, bravery, hope, and eternal life. My hope for God’s world is that all can live in peace and harmony, while respecting and loving one another. I believe hospitality and food are a perfect vehicle for spreading the good word, in essence, living a Christian life about caring for others.
Nadia Wilson
What I do at St Paul’s: Synod Representative, Intercessor, morning tea wrangler
Bev Schmidt
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor, music minister, Mother’s Union, Tatters & Chatters, Bush Church Aid and the cradle roll connector.
Things that give me joy are the relationship I have with residents of EM Tooth and members of the congregation and making music to bring our worship alive. My hope for God’s world is peace.
Nick Crisp
What I do at St Pauls: Treasurer, Liturgical Assistant, men’s ministry and tech operator. My other roles within the Diocese are in the Anglican Cursillo Movement – Parish Contact and Servant Community member.
I have two favourite passages from the Gospels – Matthew 6.27 (and 34), (because Worry is indeed just about 100 percent useless), and John 20.21. “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”
Mark Austin
What I do at St Paul’s: I have been attending St Paul’s at Manly for over 30 years and have roles as parish councillor, Liturgical Assistant, hymn/music selector and pastoral visitor at E M Tooth.
What keeps me coming back is the love we have for Christ and one another.
Ailsa Gill
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor, Mothers Union President, Morning Tea Wrangler, Liturgical Assistant, Intercessor and Reader
I have attended church for as long as I can remember and even before I can remember. It was something our family were committed to whenever a church service was available in our area. My personal commitment grew during teenage years as a member of Young Anglican Fellowship. Over the years we have lived in various parts of Queensland, and always received a warm welcome into the church community and I have taught Sunday school, RE in school, joined MU and Bible study groups.
Mel Lawrence
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor, Morning Tea Wrangler, Liturgical Assistant, Intercessor.
My favourite scripture passage is Philippians 4:13 (NIV) – “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” I use this as a reminder of the positivity and perseverance I try to bring to life.
Christopher Wood
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor representing EM Tooth residents, Tuesday Bible Reflection
My faith makes a difference in my life by understanding that every day I wake up is a blessing for which I am grateful, and choosing to be happy regardless of life’s circumstances. Whatever life’s challenges I find work arounds thanks to any wisdom and grace I have been blessed with.
Isobel Rohde
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor, morning tea wrangler, car boot sale, member of Mothers Union and attend Cursillo.
Becoming a part of St Paul’s with Chris in 1994 when we moved to Brisbane, I was inspired by the caring congregation. I look forward to sharing the Eucharist with them each week.
Chris Rohde
What I do at St Paul’s: Parish Councillor, Reader, Audiovisual Operator, Car Boot Sale Entrepreneur.
I try to understand and keep the faith taught by Jesus and the Apostles, trusting in the promise of salvation.