Our Team
Miss Amelia Holds, Director of Music
Meet The People who Welcome You at Christ Church North AdelAide
Our Clergy, Staff and VOLUNTEERS are here to help you explore faith, worship deeply, and find Community
“Faith begins in conversation. At Christ Church North Adelaide our team is here not only to lead worship but to listen, pray, and walk alongside you. Whether you’re exploring Christianity or seeking a spiritual home, we’d love to meet you.”
Rev. STEPHEN BLOOR, RECTOR
Stephen has been the Rector of Christ Church North Adelaide since 2021. In this role, he leads the congregation in worship, pastoral care, and strategic mission planning, all grounded in his deep love for Jesus and expressed through the Anglican tradition. Stephen is passionate about maintaining the beauty and reverence of traditional worship, while also embracing new forms of outreach and discipleship, such as Gospel Neighbouring, encouraging intentional social engagement within the local community.
Stephen seeks to equip the members of Christ Church to grow in their faith and actively engage in ministry. His approach blends the rich heritage of Anglican worship with practical applications of the Gospel to modern life. Stephen’s love for the Book of Common Prayer is central to his ministry, shaping the liturgy and pastoral care as he helps others encounter the depth of Anglican spirituality.
Stephen has extensive ministry experience across South Australia and New South Wales, revitalising churches through a balance of tradition and innovation. Notably, he led initiatives such as Messy Church and contemporary services while fostering more traditional worship forms. His leadership has been key in forming new outreach programs, including initiatives for migrants and refugees, and he continues to encourage lay leadership within the church, empowering others to use their gifts in service.
Stephen holds a Master of Arts in Leadership and a Bachelor of Theology. He is deeply focused on discipleship, ensuring clear pathways for spiritual growth both within the church and in outreach to the wider community. He is also a strong advocate for prayerful pastoral care and is passionate about helping people discover their identity in Christ, grounded in scripture and tradition.
Stephen enjoys spending time with his wife, Deborah, and two children outside his ministry work. He appreciates time in nature, reflecting on how faith and culture intersect, and continuously explores ways to grow the church’s mission. Stephen’s vision is for Christ Church North Adelaide to be a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can experience the transformative love of God.
Our Sermons can be found here.
MR Barry Kursten, Children and Families Outreach Worker
My name is Barry Kursten, and am married to Dr. Karuna, a senior registrar for a Hospital in the North. We have two daughters, Tara (4) and Ivy (2). I originally moved to Australia from the Netherlands 18 years ago as a skilled migrant (specialised in RF-Electronics), while Karuna is originally from Bhutan.
In 2010, I felt a call from God, igniting my passion for church mission, intercultural and theological studies. Since then, I have been involved in various church ministries, including motorcycle ministry, leadership, and youth ministry, while completing studies at Tabor College. I hold certificates in Old Testament studies (BCSA) and Catechesis (VLCFF), as well as diplomas in Theology and Intercultural Studies and a Bachelor in Ministry (Tabor).
Earlier this year, I joined the Enquiry stage of the Diocese, with the hope that one day I will be an Ordination candidate. I plan to begin graduate studies at Saint Barnabas College next year.
I have served as Warden, Secretary, and Sunday school teacher at Saint John’s in Salisbury and look forward to my role as the Children, Family, and Outreach Worker at Christ Church North Adelaide.
My mission is to build relationships with North Adelaide families and invite them into our Parish. I love to see faith communities grow into Christ centred hot spots of hospitality, love, hope, and discipleship makers, my dreams and hopes is to play a role in that by equipping and empowering volunteers and leaders, to do so. As a novice in the Third Order of Franciscans I prioritise faith in action (pastoral and applied theology) over doctrinal theology. My favourite theologians include Karl Rahner, Thomas Merton, Richard Rohr, and Henri Nouwen. In my free time, I enjoy my family and the occasional ride on my Harley Davidson Motorcycle.
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Music
Miss Amelia Holds, Director of Music
Amelia has sung at Christ Church North Adelaide since 2011. This year she was appointed the role of Director of music and could not be more thrilled to be further involved in the glorious music program at Christ Church. As Director of Music, Amelia programs the music for services as well as choir concerts, and conducts the choir. Amelia has a Bachelor’s Degree in Classical Music (Voice) with first class honours, as well as an Advanced Diploma in Performing Arts (Acting). She is passionate about choral musical and delights in the magic that occurs when multiple people connect their souls and minds through song. Aside from music, she also has a keen interest in language learning, having studied in both France and Germany. In her free time, Amelia loves to cuddle her two cats Spaetzle and Milly while reading historical fiction (especially when it is raining!).
MR Matthew Atherton
Matthew Atherton has been an organist for longer than he cares to recall, but has found every moment of it the most fulfilling in his musical life. His late father, Peter Atherton, was an Anglican priest who was also an accomplished organist and singer. It was seeing his father play the organ that made Matthew want to learn. His first lessons were at St John’s Church, Halifax St in the early 1980s (where he would later become one of the organists from 2008).
Matthew is an organist, composer, and teacher. He received tuition in organ from Christa Rumsey and Dr. David Swale, and composition and arranging from Tristram Cary. Matthew was the first Organ Scholar at St Peters Cathedral, Adelaide, in 1988, and was organist at St Francis Xaviers Cathedral from 1989 – 2010.
His professional career has featured many solo and ensemble performances, including engagements with the Adelaide Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, most of Adelaide’s major choirs, along with many performances for the Adelaide Town Hall’s annual organ recital series, most recently in July this year performing to an almost capacity audience in the auditorium. Since 1997, he has also performed on significant historical organs around the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, and Sweden. In 1998, he was a participant in workshops at the Calgary International Organ Festival (Canada) with the acclaimed Dr. Marie-Claire Alain and Hans Ola-Ericsson. He is a sincere devotee of the work of Jehan Alain, and in 2011 was a guest of the Jehan Alain Association in Romainmôtier, Switzerland, performing on the restored Albert Alain organ. He is also featured on some ABC recordings with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.
As a composer, Matthew has written in numerous genres for video documentaries, solo organ works, electronic works, vocal, choral, theatre works, orchestral works, and small ensemble pieces. In 1999, Adelaide’s notable Cameo Trio premiered From Life and the following year, La Vie est Belle? (both works composed for his wife Cheryl, then pianist in Cameo Trio). The Graduate Singers, Lumina Vocal Ensemble, and Corinthian Singers have premiered many of his choral works since 1996, including the substantial Requiem To The Unknown, In Riddles Disappearing, Around Us, Crossing Parallels, Only, Our Walk, and Nous Pouvons Être.
Matthew also has a great affection for Progressive Rock, Jazz, Electronic and Ambient music. He has enjoyed a parallel occupation as a keyboard player in various original and cover bands including Glass Onion (a Beatles cover band), Sound and Psychedelic Sea Goats. He is one of the keyboardists on the UPF album Planetary Overload, and is currently a member of Just Floyd, one of Adelaide’s top Pink Floyd tribute bands.
Matthew’s associations with Christ Church, North Adelaide have been long and varied. His parents were married there in 1966, their organist was David Gallasch. Throughout his university years and well beyond, Matthew became a close colleague of David Gallasch, participating in his concerts and workshops showcasing local composers. Over the years, he has performed at various events and concerts here (including one of his favourite pieces, Durufle’s “Requiem” with the Graduate Singers). He has also kept up with the improvements on the organ over the previous years. In many ways, taking up the position of organist at Christ Church felt like something of a homecoming. An unashamed Sci-Fi nerd with a fondness for the original Star Wars trilogy, Matthew has a singular affection for classic Dr. Who (and with an appreciation for the newer Who) as well as practically anything BBC. At any time, a random quote from Dr. Who, Blake’s 7, The Two Ronnies, The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, etc, may appear in conversation, so if it doesn’t make sense, that will be why.
Matthew is married to Cheryl, a musician and aged care worker, and they have two sons, the oldest of whom is a Corporal in the 7th Battalion, RAR. Their younger son is a keen guitarist, and they have often watched many a World Cup final together, keeping the neighbourhood awake with their shouts of elation (especially the previous France vs. Argentina in 2022 – one of the most electrifying penalty shootouts in history)!
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Wardens
MR DAVID STOCKBRIDGE
Priest’s Warden
MR NEIL WOOLMAN
People’s Warden
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Office Staff
MRS ILIANA FORERO
Parish Office Administrator
DR CLAIRE BLOOR
Parish Librarian Archivist
Claire is the Parish Librarian Archivist and is responsible for caring for the Bishop Renfrey Library and the archival records held at Christ Church North Adelaide. Prior to working at Christ Church, she worked as a high school teacher and in museum and archive settings. Claire holds a Bachelor of Teaching/ Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in history, a PhD in Education, a Graduate Certificate of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies, and a Graduate Diploma in Museum Studies. She enjoys learning about Christ Church’s history and its connection to the broader history of South Australia.
MR HAMISH MCLACHLAN
Parish Sexton and Sacristan
Hamish oversees Church and hall hire as well as aiding in the weekday services. He also supervises any event that takes place at the Church. Hamish has a wide range of experience over many different areas of work. He has gone to law school and worked in small and large law firms. He also has worked at St Peter’s College as an assistant chaplain. Hamish was drawn to this role because of his commitment to the Anglican church and his love for organizing events. He also has a penchant for the high church tradition. His favorite line from the Bible is; “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”
MiNISTRY ADVOCATES
At Christ Church North Adelaide, our Ministry Advocates lead and coordinate efforts across twelve portfolios, representing the diverse areas of ministry that our parish is passionate about. These portfolios encompass activities beyond the governance roles of the Select Vestry and areas such as administration, property, and finance. Each Ministry Advocate supports the parish’s mission, equipping members to serve God and the community.
Volunteering is at the heart of these ministries. Each role provides an opportunity to use your gifts in service, contribute to the life of the parish, and grow in faith and fellowship. Whether assisting with worship, caring for others, or supporting outreach programs, there is a place for everyone to serve. Many roles require Safe Ministry training to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all.
1. Families’ MINISTRY
This ministry supports families and young people through discipleship and outreach, connecting with programs such as Sunday School, and Messy Church. Volunteers in this ministry are required to complete Safe Ministry training to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable people.
Barry Kursten – Ministry Advocate for Families’ MINISTRY
In today’s society, where many experience loneliness and hardship, a vibrant family ministry is essential to our parish’s mission. By offering both secular and faith-centered programs such as our Messy Church, and Sunday School, we can create meaningful relationships with families in North Adelaide and provide children with a foundation of faith and life skills.
It’s also crucial that our volunteers are well-prepared to support families effectively. Beyond Safe Ministry training, I believe our volunteers should be equipped with additional skills, like First Aid-Mental Health for youth and children, and short courses such as “Through Their Eyes.” These resources enables our team to recognise social trends and issues that may impact families. By being aware of these challenges, we could potentially empower families with guidance and point those in need to the right agency, support group, or other resources that offer professional. Above all, this allows us to walk alongside families with compassion and care, reflecting our commitment to love, hospitality, and empathy as Christ calls us to. Therefore if you have a passion for people and are able to spare a few hours a month, please contact me at any time and I am sure that we can find away for you to help out according to your gifts and abilities.
Volunteering roles include:
- Messy Church Team Members
- Sunday School Teachers or Helpers
If you are passionate about families and able to spare a few hours a month, please contact me. Together, we can reflect God’s love and support families with compassion and care.
2. Welcoming and Incorporation
This ministry focuses on greeting and incorporating newcomers into the parish community. Volunteers help to create a welcoming environment, ensuring new members feel at home.
Deborah Bloor – Ministry Advocate for Welcoming and Incorporation
Welcoming people to the life of the church is about more than a warm smile; it’s about creating a lasting connection. My goal is to help newcomers find a spiritual home at Christ Church and to engage fully in the life of the parish.
Volunteering roles include:
- Sidespeople
- Welcome Pack Creators
- Event Hosts for BBQs and Teas
- Welcome Course Facilitators
If you have a heart for hospitality and enjoy meeting new people, I’d love to talk with you about how you can contribute to this vital ministry.
3. Formation and Discipleship
This Ministry is about the programs the Parish offers to learn about the Christian Faith and go further. I.e. Alpha Course and then Bible studies, Lenten Studies etc.
Nicholas Browne- Ministry Advocate for Formation and Discipleship
Nicholas Browne is the Ministry Advocate for Discipleship. In this role he assists with organising and delivering programs and activities to develop parishioners’ theological and Biblical understanding, giving them tools and opportunities to reflect on their roles as disciples. This includes leading Lenten and Advent studies, preaching at Evensong and the Eucharist and helping plan the parish’s response to the Hope 25 mission. Nicholas has a master’s degree in theology and holds the Archbishop’s Licence as a Lay Reader. A lifelong teacher, he serves as Head of Theology and Philosophy at St Peter’s College. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, watching sport and reading and is a 30+ year volunteer leader in the Scout movement.
Volunteering roles include:
- Small Group Leaders
- Alpha Course Facilitators
- Discipleship Mentors
4. Communications
This Ministry would includes parish Photographer and a journalist’s role in finding “good news within the parish” and looking at how we communicate that through the pew sheet, website, social media etc. This would also involve looking at the Archives and doing Profiles on past ministries and current Ministries.
REV. STEPHEN BLOOR – MINISTRY ADVOCATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS
Effective communication is vital to the life of our parish, helping us to share the Good News and foster meaningful connections both within and beyond Christ Church North Adelaide. This ministry includes sharing stories of faith, celebrating the life of our parish, and ensuring that our message reaches the wider community through the pew sheet, social media, the website, and other platforms.
As Ministry Advocate for Communications, I seek to highlight the many ways God is working through our parish, from current ministries to the rich history reflected in our archives. By sharing these stories and ensuring that communication is clear, accessible, and inspiring, I hope to invite others to engage more deeply with our community and faith.
If you have a passion for storytelling, photography, or digital engagement, or if you simply have ideas about how we can improve communication, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure that Christ Church continues to be a beacon of faith in North Adelaide.
Volunteering roles include:
- Social Media Coordinators
- Videographers, Photographers and Content Creators
- Quarterly Publication Editors
If you enjoy storytelling, creating digital content, or exploring innovative ways to communicate, please reach out.
5. Worship
This Ministry Advocate works with the Choir, Sanctuary Team, Bible Readers, Sanctuary Guild etc. All those who help put together our Worshiping life as the Parish of Christ Church North Adelaide.
Ann Foran – Ministry Advocate for Worship
Worship is central to our life as Christians, drawing us closer to God and shaping our faith. At Christ Church North Adelaide, vibrant worship involves attending services and actively participating in ways that reflect our Anglican traditions and deepen our spiritual connection. By inviting parishioners to take part in readings, intercessions, and other aspects of worship, we can foster a richer, more inclusive worship experience for all.
As a Ministry Advocate for Worship, I am passionate about helping others discover their gifts and encouraging them to participate in the church’s life. Whether through coordinating rosters for Epistle readings or having conversations with parishioners about how they can contribute, my goal is to create opportunities for everyone to feel involved and fulfilled in their worship.
I also believe in the importance of growth—not just for our worship but also for myself as an advocate. Attending learning events and exploring ways to enhance our ministry ensures that we continue to meet the needs of our community with excellence and care.
If you are interested in becoming more involved in worship or have ideas to share, I would love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure that worship remains a vital and enriching part of our parish life, reflecting the glory of God and our shared faith journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out; we can find a role that aligns with your gifts and abilities.
Volunteering roles include:
- Bible Readers
- Sanctuary Guild Members
- Intercession Leaders
- MC (Master of Ceremonies)
- Servers
6. Hospitality, Community Building and Events
Hospitality and Community Building are about when we get together as a Parish to get to know each other better. This includes Morning Teas and Monthly Lunches, Birthday Sundays and other special celebrations. E.g. King’s Birthday, Patronal Festival. And connecting with other big events the parish puts on.
REV. STEPHEN BLOOR – MINISTRY ADVOCATE FOR HOSPITALITY, COMMUNITY BUILDING, AND EVENTS
Hospitality is at the heart of our faith, reflecting Christ’s call to love and welcome others. At Christ Church North Adelaide, this ministry focuses on creating spaces where people can connect, celebrate, and grow in fellowship. From morning teas and monthly lunches to special events like the Patronal Festival, this ministry aims to build a sense of belonging and joy within our parish.
As Ministry Advocate for Hospitality and Community Building, I am committed to fostering opportunities for parishioners to deepen their relationships and feel more connected to one another. Whether it’s through organizing events, celebrating milestones, or simply sharing a meal, my hope is that these moments strengthen our community and reflect Christ’s love for all.
If you’re interested in helping with hospitality or have ideas for events that could bring people together, please reach out. There’s always room for new hands and fresh ideas to make our parish an even more welcoming place.
Volunteering roles include:
- Morning Tea Hosts
- Event Organisers (e.g., Patronal Festival)
- Monthly Lunch Coordinators
7. Business Connecting (Local Community Connections)
This Ministry Advocate is about how the Parish finds itself in a relationship with the business community of North Adelaide. How can we add value to local businesses? How can we connect to make North Adelaide and beyond a better place? This, in particular, is looking at ways for the Parish and local businesses to find partnerships and exploring what the Parish can offer to local businesses.
REV. STEPHEN BLOOR – MINISTRY ADVOCATE FOR BUSINESS CONNECTING (LOCAL COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS)
Christ Church North Adelaide is uniquely placed in the heart of a vibrant community, surrounded by local businesses that contribute to the life of our city. This ministry focuses on building partnerships with these businesses, finding ways to support one another, and creating connections that enrich both our parish and the wider community.
As Ministry Advocate for Business Connecting, I seek to explore how our parish can add value to the local business community. Whether through collaboration on events, offering spaces for community activities, or simply forming relationships, this ministry is about showing Christ’s love in practical and impactful ways.
If you have ideas or connections that could help us engage more deeply with local businesses, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can strengthen our ties to North Adelaide and be a positive presence in our community.
Volunteering roles include:
- Local Business Liaisons
- Community Project Coordinators
8. University Ministries
This Ministry Advocate is looking at how we connect more with the University Students that live and study in North Adelaide. We have several university colleges in North Adelaide, and the universities have campuses across the river along North Terrace. So how do we add value to the life of University Students? How do we connect with them?
9. Hospital, Nursing Homes and Aged Care. Bereavement Care
This Ministry Advocate is about how we offer Chaplaincy services at Calvary Hospital, visiting residents in Helping Hand North Adelaide and how we connect with the housebound and those who are mourning the loss of others.
REV. STEPHEN BLOOR – MINISTRY ADVOCATE FOR HOSPITAL, NURSING HOMES, AND AGED CARE. BEREAVEMENT CARE
Caring for those in times of need is a fundamental part of our Christian mission. At Christ Church North Adelaide, this ministry focuses on offering chaplaincy services to the residents of Helping Hand, visiting those in hospital, and supporting individuals and families in times of grief and loss.
As Ministry Advocate for Hospital, Nursing Homes, and Aged Care, I am committed to ensuring that our parish extends Christ’s love to those who may feel isolated, unwell, or grieving. This ministry provides opportunities to listen, pray, and walk alongside people during some of life’s most challenging moments.
If you feel called to support this ministry—whether through visiting, offering a listening ear, or helping with practical needs—I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can bring comfort and hope to those who need it most.
Volunteering roles include:
- Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteers
- Nursing Home Visitation Team
- Bereavement Care Coordinators
10. Social Transformation and Caring Outreach Ministry
This Ministry Advocate is about how we serve those in need in our Community. For example, how do we support the Magdalene Centre, AnglicareSA etc.
Barry Kursten- Ministry Advocate
At Christ Church, we believe in the power of social transformation through compassionate outreach. Serving our community is not just a duty; it is a core expression of our faith and values. By actively seeking ways to support those in need, we hope to bring lasting change to the lives we touch. From providing essential services to those who are vulnerable, to fostering a welcoming environment, our mission is to embody care and responsibility.
We recognise that genuine transformation requires ongoing commitment. It’s essential to address immediate needs, but equally important to build programs that help individuals find stability, purpose, and hope for the future. As we look forward, we are dedicated to expanding our outreach, partnering with local organisations, and listening to the evolving needs of our community. Together, we can create a more inclusive, compassionate world that uplifts every person in our parish and beyond.
11. Mutual Care
This Ministry Advocate is about equipping our people with how to best care for each other. How do we listen well, and what do we offer to be better at pastoral care.
REV. STEPHEN BLOOR – MINISTRY ADVOCATE FOR MUTUAL CARE
At Christ Church North Adelaide, mutual care is about living out Christ’s call to “love one another” through practical and emotional support within our parish. This ministry equips our community to care for each other effectively, from offering a listening ear to providing practical assistance during times of need.
As Ministry Advocate for Mutual Care, I am focused on helping parishioners develop the skills and confidence to support one another in meaningful ways. Whether it’s through pastoral care training, sharing resources, or simply encouraging a culture of compassion, this ministry ensures that no one in our community feels alone or unsupported.
If you have a heart for helping others or would like to learn more about how you can get involved in caring for your fellow parishioners, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can continue building a church family that reflects Christ’s love and care.
Volunteering roles include:
- Pastoral Partners Program Volunteers
- Prayer Circle Members
12. Mission Link
This Ministry Advocate is about helping the Parish look beyond ourselves and our local context. This Ministry Advocate helps link the Parish with BCA, ABM and other mission agencies. In addition, it connects with the work we are already doing in fundraising through Bring and Buy and other fundraising efforts.