The Team

St Paul’s People

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Jennifer Crisp - Church Warden

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

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

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

Nadia Wilson

What I do at St Paul’s: Synod Representative, Intercessor, morning tea wrangler

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.”

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.

Father Andrew Cooper

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.