By Marina Williams
As Rev Barbara Allen speaks, a soft purring fills the background.
It’s Leaf, her rescued cat, curled up beside her, in a quiet yet powerful reminder of the deep bond between humans and their animal companions.
A Uniting Church minister and pioneering chaplain at Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Melbourne, Barbara has spent years offering pastoral care ...
By Marina Williams
As Victoria advances its historic Treaty process, four Uniting Church congregations are taking a firm stand for justice and reconciliation.
A Treaty aims to recognise First Nations rights, address past injustices, and create pathways for self-determination.
Victoria began Treaty negotiations in 2019, led by the First Peoples’ Assembly.
By Mark Zirnsak
In November I went to Mexico for an international meeting on addressing forced labour in the production of goods that are exported across borders.
I had the opportunity to visit many of the temple ruins around Mexico city.
The history around the ruins aligned to my recent reading on empires.
By Marina Williams
At 100, Val Flitton remains a steadfast symbol of resilience, kindness, and service.
Having spent 86 years in Apollo Bay, she is deeply woven into the fabric of the community, and a woman known for her strength, faith, and dedication to others.
“She’s the kind of person who just keeps going,” says daughter Janny.
By Rev Michael Duke
“And the air guitar hero of Rowallan Park is … Will. Congratulations.”
The cheering and applause was deafening.
Will was a standout among an already outstanding cast of virtual virtuosos at our winter karaoke event.
A seasoned actor of some note, Will is no stranger to an adoring audience.
As a teenager, I recall being deeply moved by a sermon about how the love of God in Jesus transforms us, and how we can embody that kind of love as we seek to change the world for good.
At that time, there were several Biblical verses that came to resonate for me. Among them was the beginning of Psalm ...
By Andrea St Flour
In rural Australia, where the vast landscapes can feel isolating, the role of bush chaplains can be a beacon of hope.
Bush chaplain Noel knows firsthand the importance of being present for those facing life’s toughest challenges, such as grief and loss.
Meet Paul, a farmer who recently faced the heartbreaking loss of his son.
By Alisha Fung
I became a Christian because of a spiritual experience in a Pentecostal church service.
It felt like how Julia Baird describes ‘awe’ in her book ‘Phosphorescence’: an experience that humbles us, makes us aware we are part of something larger, makes us kinder and more selfless.
By Marina Williams
The Middle East has long been synonymous with protracted conflict and division, yet amidst the turmoil, many individuals persist in the quest for a just and lasting peace.
In joining or forming organisations such as Roots/Shorashim/Judur, The Parents Circle – Families Forum (PCFF), Peace Now, Refuser Solidarity Network (RSN), and Wi’am: The Palestinian Conflict Transformation Center, these ...
By Andrew Humphries
As the cost of living continues to bite hard, a community service organisation in Tasmania’s northern midlands is helping to make life slightly easier for those needing help.
Like so many emergency relief and support agencies, Longford’s The Helping Hand wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for a group of committed volunteers.
By Andrew Humphries
It may be relatively small in size, but a garden in front of the Healesville Yarra Glen Uniting Church is making a big statement about how congregations can walk together with our First Nations people.
In October last year, years of planning came to fruition with the official opening of the indigenous garden at the Healesville church.
...
By Andrew Humphries
Twenty years after his death, Kirk Robson’s legacy continues to live on within the Uniting Church in Victoria and Tasmania.
A talented theatre director, performer, filmmaker and community cultural development worker, Kirk was killed in a car accident in 2005.
Every other year, the Synod invites applications for people seeking financial assistance through the Kirk Robson Theology and ...