In this world, and beyond
Kelly Skilton explains how OmegaCon in Geelong seeks to create a space for exploration and belonging
May 30, 2023
This weekend, St David's Uniting Church Newtown in Geelong, Victoria, will jointly host OmegaCon - a convention dedicated to exploring who we are in this world and beyond. Kelly Skilton from the Young Generations Team in the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, whose role includes Digital and New Communities, explains how this innovative form of ministry will create a place of inclusion, exploration and belonging.
"In games we have the chance to transcend time and space; we are given the opportunity to explore ourselves in new ways."
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OmegaCon is a partnership of three communities: The Geelong Regional Libraries, Guf Geelong and St David's which share a desire to bring people together and a love of gaming. From a faith perspective, OmegaCon seeks to offer a space for people to explore beliefs with others in a unique environment.
Kelly says, "In games we have the chance to transcend time and space; we are given the opportunity to explore ourselves in new ways, whether they’re strategies, beliefs, ideals and personalities. Here we have the chance to adventure without real-world consequences."
Coinciding with International TableTop Day on 3 June, organisers have curated a weekend of community and gaming open to everyone. Events will take place across two locations - St Davids Newtown Uniting and ‘The Dome’ Geelong Regional Library.
Kelly explains how the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania is keen to explore connections with digital communities.
“We often talk about needing to connect with the community and join in with the wider work that is happening outside of the church doors. What I find exciting about OmegaCon is that this community is intentionally being built by the whole community together – inside the church, outside the church and beyond the church.”
The weekend will include spaces which intentionally set out to bridge the gap between gaming and ministry.
One is a live D&D session, DM’ed (facilitated) by Rev Lindsay Cullen. A handful of ministry agents will adventure and work through obstacles and challenges together. You can watch along at https://twitch.tv/sondercloud on Saturday 3 June, 7pm AEST.
On Sunday morning, Rev Will Nicholas will be facilitating a panel exploring ‘Universes and Belief’. Watch along at https://www.facebook.com/NewtownUniting/ on Sunday 4 June 4th, 10am AEST.
They have also connected in with the Global Network for Digital Theology conference that is running over the same weekend, and have access to their explorations and papers.
Kelly is excited about the links being made with the community. “I am hoping that people will be able to find a place of inclusion, exploration and belonging.”
OmegaCon has been locked in for next year: May 31 - June 2, 2024. Sign up for more info: https://www.omegacon.info/
Image: Rev Will Nicholas at Geelong West Library
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