Connecting with community

By Marina Williams

In the picturesque city of Bairnsdale, nestled in the heart of East Gippsland, the Uniting Church congregation is a shining example of one deeply committed to serving.

With a rich history spanning 157 years, this lively church and its pastoral care list of 100 people has woven itself into the fabric of the region, becoming a hub of activity, compassion and outreach.

At the core of its mission is a steadfast belief in the power of community.

“We are not just a place of worship, but a place where people can find connection, support and a sense of belonging,” says Church Council Chairperson Jenny Arms.

“This sentiment is evident in the diverse array of programs and initiatives the church has spearheaded, each one tailored to address the unique needs of the Bairnsdale community.”

One of the church’s most visible and impactful endeavours is its Friendship Shed and Opportunity Shop, which has become a driving force in the local second-hand economy and a drop-in coffee spot since opening in 2008.

“Our op shop is more than just a place to donate and purchase pre-loved items,” explains Jenny.

“It is a gathering place, a source of income for the church, and a way for us to give back to the community.”

Each week, a dedicated team of community volunteers, some of whom are members of the congregation, sort and sell the donated goods.

No item is wasted, says Jenny, and if it’s not suitable for sale, clothing goes to Lifeline.

A monthly car boot market is held in the church grounds.

“The team is terrific and works hard to ensure we can raise as much money as possible to support a wide range of community initiatives,” Jenny says.

From funding the local Riding for the Disabled program to providing financial assistance to those in need, the op shop has become a lifeline for the region.

Community engagement is more than just offering recycled and repurposed clothing and household items.

The church’s pipe organ musical group, POMEG, regularly hosts concerts.

“The pipe organ is beautiful and the largest in Gippsland,” Jenny says.

“POMEG is always busy with quality musical events, which entertain the community and raise funds to maintain and enhance the pipe organ and grand piano, both of which are used in worship.”

The congregation is also deeply involved in supporting the area’s seasonal workers, many of whom hail from the Pacific Islands.

“We recognise that these workers are an integral part of our community, and we want to make sure they feel welcomed and supported,” Jenny says.

In collaboration with East Gippsland Community Connections, the congregation and other local churches organise monthly barbecues, morning teas, and sewing classes for the workers, providing them with a space to connect, learn, and find respite after labouring on local farms.

The congregation’s commitment to inclusivity and intergenerational engagement is further exemplified by its Messy Church program.

Held once a month, Messy Church is a vibrant, family-friendly service that combines art, storytelling, and drama to explore the teachings of Christianity.

“It’s amazing to see the mix of children and adults who come together for Messy Church,” Jenny says.

“It’s a true testament to the church’s desire to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.”

The church’s outreach extends beyond its own walls, with members actively involved in a variety of community organisations, including the CFA, Rotary and CWA.

They also host many social groups and visit residents of the region’s aged care facilities.

“Many of the congregation are volunteers with many community groups, all in the name of our church,” Jenny says.

“We have drivers with Red Cross, ferrying people to doctors and hospitals, the monthly Meals on Wheels program, and people who collect and pack products for birthing kits and female personal packs for overseas distribution.

“The level of caring from our people is just amazing; if they hear someone’s sick, ailing or needs something they’re around there or finding a way to support.”

There’s also a strong commitment to men’s health and wellbeing.

The op shop introduced a men’s area, which includes tools and material for local men’s sheds.

There’s also a fortnightly men’s bible study group and monthly luncheon.

Jenny says this cross-pollination of involvement not only strengthens the church’s ties to the broader community but also allows its members to leverage their skills and resources to make a tangible difference.

One such example is the church’s partnership with the local secondary college music group.

When the group needed financial support, the congregation stepped in, providing the necessary funds to ensure the program could continue.

“It’s these kinds of connections that really make a difference,” Jenny says.

“We’re not just a church, we’re a part of this community, and we’re committed to helping it thrive.”

The church’s commitment to community is also reflected in its efforts to address environmental concerns, having implemented several climate change initiatives in the past 15 years, such as installing solar panel systems and updating lighting and hot water services in the church and manse.

One of their biggest achievements, Jenny says, is a large blue gum plantation on the northside of the church complex that is providing ecological benefits.

“The trees were planted for wood chip harvesting to generate an income,” she says.

“While that is no longer viable, it has become a greenhouse gas sink site for electricity and vehicle use associated with church operations.

“We maintain the plantation through mulching to reduce fire risk seasonally, and projects such as these align with our desire to be good stewards of the planet.”

As the Bairnsdale Uniting Church navigates a transition to a new Minister, Jenny says the congregation remains steadfast in its mission to serve the community.

“We may be in a period of change, but our commitment to making a difference hasn’t wavered,” she says.

“If anything, it’s only grown stronger as we continue to find new and innovative ways to support the people of Bairnsdale.”