By Andrew Humphries
Robust discussion exploring important proposals in great detail was an important part of day three of Synod 2023 today.
A proposal relating to reducing the harm of prohibited drugs as part of a move towards a health-based approach, one moving towards zero emissions, and another on secure work were explored today by Synod members.
By Andrew Humphries
Day two of Synod 2023 featured the announcement of Rev Salesi Faupula as Moderator-elect, a diverse range of discussion topics for members and, for the first time at a Synod Meeting since 2019, a Tributes Service recognising Ministers’ milestones.
Today also marked the first time elective sessions had been held at a Synod Meeting.
Rev Salesi Faupula has today been named Moderator-elect of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania.
Moderator Rev David Fotheringham this afternoon announced the result of the Moderator-elect ballot, to rapturous applause from Synod members gathered at Box Hill Town Hall.
“We thank you Lord for Salesi’s life and ministry, and his willingness to heed the call,” David said.
By Andrew Humphries
Synod 2023 is officially under way, with Opening Worship at the Salvation Army Hall in Box Hill this morning marking the start of four days of discernment, discussion and connection among members.
Indigenous Christian leader, writer, educator and poet Brooke Prentis was the guest preacher during Opening Worship, while Pilgrim Theological College’s Rev Robyn Whitaker is leading ...
Wesley Church Melbourne has announced the appointment of Acting Head of Pilgrim Theological College Rev Associate Professor Robyn Whitaker to the role of Director of The Wesley Centre for Theology, Ethics and Public Policy.
The centre, to be launched early next year, is a collaboration between Wesley Church, Uniting Vic.Tas, Uniting AgeWell, UEthical, and the eLM unit of the Synod ...
Pilgrim Theological College graduating students were celebrated at a valedictory service last Friday, with some words of inspiration sending them on their way.
“You do have enough and you are enough,” said Rev Rachel Kronberger in her homily to the students at the ceremony held at the Centre for Theology and Ministry.
By Andrew Humphries
When Ramila Chanisheff addresses Uniting Church members during Synod 2023 next week, she will be imparting a message of great importance, and support, for the ethnic Uyghur population of East Turkistan.
The Australian-based President of the Australian Uyghur Tangritagh Women’s Association will outline the brutal crackdown by Chinese authorities that has seen many Uyghurs killed, imprisoned and ...
An exhibition currently running at the Centre for Theology and Ministry in Parkville is showcasing the very best of art based on the theme of feminist theologies.
The ‘Tending to Stories’ exhibition coincided with a feminist theology conference of the same name, held recently, involving participants from all over Australia.
Guest co-curators Steph Gesling, Pearl Taylor and Christina Rowntree were ...
Moderator Rev David Fotheringham participated in an ecumenical and interfaith service at St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne on Friday, organised to assure the Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia that their grief, anxiety and concern for loved ones in the wake of recent conflict in the Middle East is shared by all.
By Andrew Humphries
In her four years as Minister at Koonung Heights Uniting Church, Heather Hon has come to appreciate deeply the level of the congregation’s commitment to creating a more sustainable world.
That commitment was recognised in April through the Five Leaf Eco Awards, which honour a congregation’s work in promoting practices and policies which help our environment.
By Andrew Humphries
When Anne Pate is asked what her role as Missional Spirituality Pastor with Northcote Uniting Church involves, she admits she isn’t 100 per cent sure.
To be precise, she says, it’s a work in progress.
“Well, we’re still reflecting on exactly what we mean by that title,” she says with a laugh as she describes her and ...
By Cathy Withiel
Dogs are wonderful companions, but they don’t understand cricket. And they don’t get that being out for a duck is not the same as trying to chase one in the park.
So during the cricket season, Uniting AgeWell Social Connections volunteer Pat Kennedy knew the moment she said “hello” to the older client she phoned every fortnight, ...