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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260223T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260223T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20251208T234333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T234333Z
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SUMMARY:Introduction to Uniting Learning Orientation - Semester 1
DESCRIPTION:This is a free introductory and orientation session to the Uniting Learning units offered in Semester 1\, 2026. This introduction is recommended for anyone undertaking a Uniting Learning unit in semester 1\, 2026. This orientation will cover becoming familiar with the online learning environment (LMS); Dalton McCaughey Library usage\, access and membership; academic integrity\, referencing your work and assessment submissions; meeting the teaching and support staff for this semester; and outlining the students learning expectations\, supports services and resources available to you. \n\nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/introduction-to-uniting-learning-orientation-semester-1/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/UL-tile.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Amanda Nicholas":MAILTO:amanda.nicholas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T140000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20251222T022301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T022301Z
UID:10000358-1771063200-1771077600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:VicTas Synod Intercultural Forum Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The VICTAS Synod Intercultural Forum invites you to attend the SIF annual general meeting. This is a great opportunity to support the multicultural ministries and intercultural leadership within the Synod.  You will find plenty of chances to make new friends in ministry\, catch up with colleagues and friends\, worship and praise together\, and engage in Talanoa with Synod leaders. Plus\, a new SIF leadership team will be elected. \nRev Salesi Faupula\, the VICTAS Synod Moderator\, has been asked to open the meeting with his message and prayer.  Rev Sylvia ‘Akau’ola-Tongotongo from Toorak Uniting Church will share her experiences and insights on multicultural ministries and intercultural leadership as she continues to her journey with the Uniting Church in Australia. \n  \nDate: 14 February 2026\, Saturday (10:00 am ~ 2:00 pm) \nVenue: Glen Waverley Uniting Church (10-12 Bogong Ave\, Glen Waverley VIC 3150) \nNote: \n\nThe church carpark spaces for disability carpark permit holders and guest speakers only.\n\n\nFellowship lunch will be provided\, please indicate your dietary requirement.\n\n  \nTo register\, click here \nPlease register by Saturday 7 February\, 2026
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/victas-synod-intercultural-forum-annual-general-meeting/
LOCATION:Glen Waverley Uniting Church\, 10-12 Bogong Ave\, Glen Waverley\, Victoria\, 3150\, Australia
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ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251201T170000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251201T183000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20251031T025142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251031T025142Z
UID:10000356-1764608400-1764613800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Book Launch for Rewilding Prayer: God Beyond Gender\, Faith Beyond Formulas
DESCRIPTION:You are warmly invited to join Sally Douglas for the launch of Rewilding Prayer: God Beyond Gender\, Faith Beyond Formulas. \n  \n5pm Monday 1st December 2025 \nYuma Auditorium\, Centre for Theology and Ministry 29 College Crescent\, Parkville \nRSVP Wednesday 26 November. \n  \nRev Salesi Faupula\, Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia\, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania\, together with Julie Perrin\, storyteller and writer\, will launch the book. Rewilding Prayer disrupts the idol of pretending that God is a man and upends the delusion that prayer is about wishful thinking\, vending machines\, or reciting words. With insight and honesty\, questions about what prayer is for\, what prayer does and does not do\, and what we can do when we cannot pray are explored. Exuding a gritty hope\, Douglas demonstrates that prayer is the call to the real. This book is for the curious\, the “spiritual not religious”\, the faithful\, the disenchanted\, and for those who thirst for more. \n  \nView the event flyer here \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \n“There is deep pastoral and biblical wisdom in these honest\, unfussy prayers and reflections.” —Amy Plantinga Pauw\, Louisville Presbyterian Seminary. \n“Attuned to human experience\, and concerned with shaping language that is sensitive\, straightforward\, devout\, and daring.”—Pádraig Ó Tuama\, Host\, Poetry Unbound. \n“With passion and honesty\, she invites us to ‘live close to the fire’ of liberating divine grace.” —Steven Shakespeare\, Liverpool Hope University. \n“A gentle yet insistent call to rediscover prayer as wild encounter with the divine.” —Tim Nash\, Host\, Nomad Podcast. \n“Sally Douglas inspires us to pray with ‘guts and integrity amidst the chaos’ of everyday life.” —Seforosa Carroll\, United Theological College\, Charles Sturt University. \n“More than a book about prayer—Douglas has gifted us a challenge\, an invitation\, a treasury.” —Cathie Lambert\, Uniting College for Leadership and Theology.
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/book-launch-for-rewilding-prayer-god-beyond-gender-faith-beyond-formulas/
LOCATION:Pilgrim Theological College\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
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ORGANIZER;CN="Sally Douglas":MAILTO:sally.douglas@pilgrim.edu.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Pilgrim Theological College 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250603T083212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T054448Z
UID:10000352-1761382800-1761411600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Discernment Day
DESCRIPTION:Discernment Day  \nCome and see …   An opportunity to learn about discernment\, discipleship and ministries in the Uniting Church\, and pathways into lay and ordained ministries. \n• Meet UCA Ministry agents and learn about their different roles and contexts \n• Discover educational pathways for discipleship and ministries \n• Learn about the Period of Discernment and ministry pathways \n• Consider how to discern your gifts and your sense of call \n  \nThis session is available both in person and online. \n  \nThere is limited carparking available for people with mobility issues only. Bookings are essential and can be done by contacting CTM Reception on 03 9340 8800 \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/discernment-day/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
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ORGANIZER;CN="Lauren Mosso":MAILTO:lauren.mosso@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251013T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251124T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250925T041235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T041319Z
UID:10000355-1760382000-1764018000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Exploring Preaching
DESCRIPTION:Exploring Preaching in the UCA \nAn online course for anyone who wants to learn how to Preach in the UCA. \nExploring Preaching in the UCA has been created around the Preaching Competencies from the “Assembly Standards and Competencies for the Formation and Education for the Specified Ministry of Lay Preacher”. So\, those training for the ministry of Lay Preaching\, and those needing to undertake training for the Preaching Competencies for Pastors (as these are the same)\, can be assured they are receiving training to help them meet these competencies. \nHowever\, Exploring Preaching in the UCA is also a great course for: \n\npeople undertaking a Period of Discernment\nLay Preachers looking for some continuing education.\n\nExploring Preaching in the UCA covers: \n\nwhere preaching ‘fits’ in Worship\nethical preaching\npractical preaching skills\nexegesis\nplanning to preach\n\nExploring Preaching in the UCA is offered through access to online learning materials and a Zoom class. \nInternet not great at home? The unit is also designed so that the base material can be downloaded and saved to your computer. Others interested in learning in your Presbytery? Why don’t you learn together – and download your learning material to work on at home. \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/exploring-preaching/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/fish-tile.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251003T170000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251005T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250812T053501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T033724Z
UID:10000353-1759510800-1759683600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:2025 Women's Intercultural Conference
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the 2025 Women Intercultural Conference (WIC)\, a three-day gathering to empower\, equip\, and enrich Intercultural women in ministry and leadership. \nThis event will include: \n·         Inspiring keynote speakers \n·         Small-group discussions \n·         Interactive workshops \n·         Networking across communities and generations \n  \nTickets are only $60\, covering all three days at all three venues\, with catering included \n  \n2025 Event Schedule \nFriday 3 October | 5PM–10PM\nBox Hill Town Hall\n1022 Whitehorse Road\, Box Hill \nSaturday 4 October | 9AM–5PM\nCentre for Theology and Ministry\n29 College Crescent\, Parkville \nSunday 5 October | 1PM–5PM\nSt John’s Uniting Church\nCnr Mt Alexander Road & Buckley Street\, Essendon \nOur Speakers\nFeaturing leaders in theology\, ministry\, advocacy\, and community development\, including: \n  \nRev Charissa Suli\nPresident\, Uniting Church in Australia \n  \nAssoc Prof Monica Melanchthon\nAssociate Professor & Research Coordinator\, Pilgrim Theological College \n  \nVirginia Lavaki\nFaith leader and advocate for CALD communities in the Uniting Church \n  \nLuisa Tuilau\nLawyer and activist in decolonisation and nuclear disarmament \n  \nSylvia Coombe\nMulticultural Commissioner\, Victorian Multicultural Commission \n  \nAssoc Prof Hye Kyung Park\nDirector and Associate Professor\, Department of Theology\,\nChang Jung Christian University (Taiwan) \n  \nRev Salesi Faupula\nModerator\, Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania \nFor full event details and to read more about our speakers\, download the event flyer. \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nBe sure to follow us on Facebook at WIC 2025 for updates and announcements. \n  \nWIC is a safe space for all.
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/2025-womens-intercultural-conference/
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ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250831T183000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250831T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250812T054302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T032958Z
UID:10000354-1756665000-1756674000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Mending Our Social Fabric: Learning from Palestinian and Israeli Women Peacebuilders
DESCRIPTION:Mending Our Social Fabric: Learning from Palestinian and Israeli Women Peacebuilders \n  \n \nRiman Barakat – Is a veteran peacebuilder and social entrepreneur from East Jerusalem. She currently serves as the co-CEO of FeelBeit\, an Israeli-Palestinian cultural centre on Jerusalem’s East-West boundary that harnesses the transformative power of the arts to bridge divides\, foster dialogue\, and is a prototype of a shared future. \n  \n \nPeta Jones Pellach – Is an educator\, activist\, and blogger. She is committed to interfaith dialogue and peace-building. She is Director of Education\, Elijah Interfaith Institute\, co-founder and moderator of Praying Together in Jerusalem and an active member of Women Wage Peace. \n  \n \nThe moderator for the night will be Margaret Hepworth. Margaret is an inspiring peace educator\, speaker\, and advocate for non-violence and building social cohesion. She is currently serving as the Victorian Education Coordinator for Together for Humanity and founder of the peace education initiative\, The Gandhi Experiment. \n  \nSunday 31 August \n6:30 pm for 7 pm start \n  \nVenue: The venue will be in the inner South-East suburbs of Melbourne/Naarm. Location will be provided three days before the event for community safety reasons \n  \nCost: $18/ $10 concession/ Free for the unwaged and those unable to pay at this time \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nFor questions about the event please e-mail jim@victas.uca.org.au or melindajones613@gmail.com \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/mending-our-social-fabric-learning-from-palestinian-and-israeli-women-peacebuilders/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/mending-tile-2.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Mark Zirnsak":MAILTO:mark.zirnsak@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250830T080000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250902T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250519T015951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250719T041537Z
UID:10000350-1756540800-1756832400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Presented by the Uniting Church in Australia Synod of Victoria and Tasmania
DESCRIPTION:The Synod 2025 Meeting will begin on Saturday\, August 30 and conclude on Tuesday\, September 2. Synod 2025 will this year include the installation of a new Moderator\, Rev Salesi Faupula. Theological reflections will be presented by Rev Tara Tautari\, General Secretary of Te Hāhi Weteriana o Aotearoa (the Methodist Church of New Zealand)\, while Rev Prof John Flett will present daily Bible studies.
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/presented-by-the-uniting-church-in-australia-synod-of-victoria-and-tasmania/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250815T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250815T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250602T035509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T053911Z
UID:10000342-1755248400-1755270000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Resilience and Hope
DESCRIPTION:With 76% of young Australians expressing that ‘the future is frightening’ due to climate change\, this event aims to empower young leaders to navigate climate emotions and advocate for taking action on the ongoing climate crisis. More details to come prior to the event! \n  \n**This event is specifically for schools associated with the Uniting Church in Australia Network – Synod Victoria and Tasmania \n\nAudience: Students Year 6-8\nDay: Friday\, August 15\nTime: 9 am to 3 pm.\nLocation: Business Hub\, Level 1\, Wesley Place (130 Lonsdale St\, Melbourne)\nCost: AU$300 (Group of 10 students)\n\n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nFor further details\, contact Paola Rojas paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/resilience-and-hope/
LOCATION:Wesley Place\, 130 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne\, Victoria\, 3000\, Australia
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ORGANIZER;CN="Paola Rojas":MAILTO:paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8101202;144.9686266
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Wesley Place 130 Lonsdale Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=130 Lonsdale Street:geo:144.9686266,-37.8101202
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250729T173000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250729T190000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250615T235113Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250615T235115Z
UID:10000351-1753810200-1753815600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Northey Lecture - Dei Ex Machina: The Images of God in our Conceptions of AI
DESCRIPTION:AI has emerged as a tool for productivity\, a threat to jobs\, and even a stand-in for God. Much of the language used to discuss AI draws on apocalyptic and prophetic discourse\, as well as on images of God rooted in divine omniscience. Rev. Dr Kristel Clayville\, a lecturer in ethics in the computer science department at University of Illinois Chicago\, suggests an alternative theological framework. \nRather than emphasising AI’s godlike powers of omniscience and control—traditionally masculine divine attributes —Clayville examines how feminine divine imagery might reshape our understanding of artificial intelligence. Could we envision AI through metaphors of nurturing\, relationship\, and collaborative wisdom instead of domination and all-knowing power? Does embracing feminine images of God offer new ways to conceptualize AI’s role and possibilities in human society? Her talk will explore this alternative and attempt to offer a different conceptual vocabulary for AI. \n  \n \nNorthey Lecturer: Rev. Dr Kristel Clayville PhD \nRev. Dr Kristel Clayville holds a PhD in Religious Ethics from the University of Chicago’s Divinity School and completed Fellowship training in clinical medical ethics at the MacLean Center. She has served as the Acting Director of the Zygon Center for Religion and Science\, and was a Fellow in the Sinai and Synapses program. She has a clinical background as a chaplain and ethicist at the University of Chicago Medical Center. \nCurrently\, she teaches ethics in the Computer Science Department at UIC\, where she also serves on the hospital ethics committee\, and the medical school ethics education committee. Her research interests encompass the ethics of emerging (bio)technologies\, organ transplant ethics\, the role of religion in medical education\, AI and religion\, and the function of ethics committees in hospitals and tech companies. \n  \nWhen: Tuesday\, July 29 \nWhere: Pilgrim Theological College; 29 College Cres\, Parkville\, 3025 \nRefreshments available from 5pm \nLecture commences at 5.30pm \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/northey-lecture-dei-ex-machina-the-images-of-god-in-our-conceptions-of-ai/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
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ORGANIZER;CN="Robyn Whittaker":MAILTO:robyn.whittaker@pilgrim.edu.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250715T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251014T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250408T004639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T053818Z
UID:10000347-1752606000-1760475600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Understanding the UCA
DESCRIPTION:Understanding the UCA has been created around the Core Competency “Work within the doctrine\, ethos and polity of the Uniting Church” from the ‘Assembly Standards and Competencies for the Formation and Education for the Specified Ministry of Lay Preacher’ and UCA Assembly’s Standards for the Ministry if Pastor: Core Competencies’. \nUnderstanding the UCA covers: \n\nHistory of the formation of UCA\nTheological foundations of the Basis of Union\nThe place and role of key aspects of the Church’s life and witness\nUnderstanding the Councils and Ministries of the UCA\nUnderstanding the UCA’s commitment to First Nations People and Intercultural Ministry\nAct2\n\n  \nThose undertaking Understanding the UCA for assessment purposes\, must attend the tutorial and submit the given assessment. \nTo register\, click here \nRegistrations close strictly on Friday 1 July 2025
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/understanding-the-uca-7/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Understanding-UCA-x-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250712T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250712T161500
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250408T015533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T013212Z
UID:10000348-1752310800-1752336900@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Justice and International Mission Convention 2025
DESCRIPTION:Christian Community and the pursuit of Common Good \nJustice and International Mission Convention 2025 \n  \nWhen: Saturday 12 July\, 9 am – 4:15 pm \nWhere: Centre for Theology and Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville \nCost: $50 Metropolitan/ $30 Concession and Rural and Regional\, $10 online (morning sessions only) (Morning tea\, lunch and afternoon tea included) \n  \nDo nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather\, in humility value others above yourselves not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4 \n  \nWhen Jesus said\, “Whatever you do for the least of these\, you do for me\,” (Mt 25:40) he was inviting us to seek the Common Good. Jesus saw a common good as fulfilling God’s will that we love and serve others\, creating a society where all people are valued and treated with dignity\, and where justice and peace prevail. The common good is a collective responsibility\, where people live in harmony\, sharing resources\, offering help\, and showing kindness to one another in ways that build up the community\, and not just for individual gain. \nPolitical and financial inequality across the globe and in Australia is increasing\, resulting in people on lower incomes believing that the democratic system does not work for them. The increase in these inequalities also erodes trust and social cohesion in our society\, and increase the growth in racism. It also makes it harder to address problems that require whole of society and international cooperation\, such as climate change and pandemics. \nThe problem of the erosion of trust and social cohesion is enhanced by the spread of disinformation and misinformation in the online world. The ability of generative artificial intelligence to create realistic video material will increasingly make it more difficult to tell the truth from lies in the online world. \nThe Convention will examine what we\, in the Christian community\, can do to reverse these trends and rebuild a commitment to the common good in our society. \nKeynote Speaker \n  \n \nAssociate Professor Myra Hamilton \nMyra Hamilton is an Associate Professor in Work and Organisational Studies at the University of Sydney Business School. She is a sociologist and social policy scholar whose work identifies and challenges inequalities arising from gender\, age and social disadvantage. Among other things\, her most recent work challenges the notion of the ‘generation wars’ and seeks to uncover the workings of elite privilege and its harms. \nMyra will speak to her recent book on social\, political and financial inequalities that exist in Australia\, The Privileged Few. \n  \nPanel Members \n  \n \nGodfrey Moase \nGodfrey is an Executive Director of the United Workers Union\, that represents many workers on low incomes. He is also the chairperson of CoPower\, a non-for-profit cooperative that seeks to transform the electricity and gas industries. He has published in the Guardian and New Matilda. \nGodfrey will speak on the importance of democratic reform for low-income people. \n  \n  \n \nBruce Poon \nIn his professional life\, Bruce worked as a consulting project manager and CEO in the infotech sphere. He has been the founder and director of several for-profit companies and not-for-profit charities and has led numerous expeditions overseas to aid communities in the developing world. \nHe joined the Animal Justice Party in 2012 and has served in various roles on the board and state committees\, parliamentary adviser to our first Victorian member of parliament\, and has served several terms as national president. \nHe is the president of the Animal Justice Foundation\, which seeks to provide long term funding to valuable initiatives within the animal protection movement\, including political initiatives. \nBruce will speak on the challenges faced by a small political party that lacks support from billionaires and millionaires in our current democratic system. \n  \n \nMark Zirnsak \nMark is the Senior Social Justice Advocate in the JIM Cluster. He has been in Synod social justice roles for 26 years. He has been a numerous government consultive bodies in that time. Prior to joining the Synod he was a research engineer with a multinational mining corporation. \nMark will speak to the threats that financial and political inequalities pose to our collective well-being and what could be done to address them to build the common good and rebuild trust between us. \n  \n \nAunty Esme Bamblett \nBangerang\, Taungurung and Wiradjuri \nAunty Esme has been involved in Aboriginal Affairs for over 50 years in various capacities. She is a member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria\, which is negotiating a Treaty with the Victorian Government. \nShe speak on what kind of reforms to the democratic system are necessary to advance social justice for First Peoples. \n  \n  \nWORKSHOPS \nPlease list your top three workshop options when registering (eg\, 6\, 3\, 7). Workshops will be run based on the number of participants\, and will not run if not enough participants register interest. Each workshop will aim to look for a specific way forward in each area. \n  \n\nOne person\, one vote – Giving people an equal say in democracy\nUnequal access – Regulation of Lobbyists\nSeparating ice from snow – Misinformation and Disinformation and the role of AI\nThe other person might be right – Addressing political polarisation\nGiving First Peoples a fairer say in democracy\nLimitarianism – Limiting the role of wealth in democracy\nRiders of the Apocalypse – Responding to threats to humanity’s future\nMake me a channe – The Synod’s role in peace-building\n\n  \nProgram \n9 am Gathering & Registration. Tea and coffee will be provided on arrival \n9:30 am Introduction\, acknowledgement of country and opening worship \n9:45 am Keynote address \n10:30 am Morning Tea \n11 am Panel Discussion on the common good\, democratic reforms\, and trust. \n12:20 pm Lightning talks: One minute presentations about what you are doing in your church or community on social justice. Please register your interest in advance if you would like to make a presentation. \n12:35 pm Lunch \n1:15 pm First Round of Workshops \n2:00 pm Short Break \n2:15 pm Second Round of Workshops \n3 pm Discussion on the direction and work areas of the JIM Cluster \n4 pm Closing worship \n4:15 pm Finish \n  \nTo register\, click here \nPlease register by Wednesday\, July 9 \n  \nIf you have particular access needs or need assistance to register contact Alicia Torres on 03 9340 8815 or alicia.torres@victas.uca.org.au \n  \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/justice-and-international-mission-convention-2025/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JIM-.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Mark Zirnsak":MAILTO:mark.zirnsak@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250707T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250922T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241211T035004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T024018Z
UID:10000335-1751914800-1758574800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Exploring Christology
DESCRIPTION:Exploring Christology \nAn introductory online unit for anyone who wants to know more about the study of Christ \nExploring Christology has been created around the Worship and Preaching Competencies for Biblical studies from the “Assembly Standards and Competencies for the Formation and Education for the Specified Ministry of Lay Preacher”. So\, those training for the ministry of Lay Preaching\, and those needing to undertake training for the Worship and Preaching Competencies for Pastors (as these are the same)\, can be assured they are receiving training to help them meet these competencies. \nHowever\, Exploring Christology was also written and developed to encourage faith and discipleship formation. So\, it is also a great unit for: \n\nWorship leaders\npeople undertaking a Period of Discernment\nLay Preachers looking for some continuing education\npeople who would like to explore Christology as a way of deepening their faith and relationship with God and\nanyone just generally interested in knowing more about the study of Christ.\n\nExploring Christology covers: \n\nChristological questions and historical development\nThe ministry and mission of Jesus\nImages of the Christ\nChrist and the church\nWhy did Jesus die?\nThe work of salvation and atonement\nThe resurrection and its meaning\nChristology in context\nChrist in the Uniting Church in Australia\nJesus Christ and Religious Pluralism\n\nExploring Christology is offered through access to online learning materials and a Zoom class. \nInternet not great at home? The unit is also designed so that the base material can be downloaded and saved to your computer. Others interested in learning in your Presbytery? Why don’t you learn together – and download your learning material to work on at home. \n  \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/exploring-christology/
LOCATION:Online\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/bible-thorns.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.4713077;144.7851531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250610T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250624T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241211T034411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250615T234518Z
UID:10000334-1749582000-1750798800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Understanding the Lay Preachers Code of Ethics
DESCRIPTION:Understanding the Lay Preacher Code of Ethics is designed to help those training for Lay Preaching better understand the “Lay Preacher Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice”. Being able to understand and work within this Code of Ethics is one of the Core Competencies expected of Lay Preachers by the UCA Assembly. \nThis unit will reflect on and discuss various elements of the “Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice for Lay Preachers”\, including: \n\nthe role of Lay Preaching in the UCA and the call to Lay Preaching\nuse of power\nresponsibility given by the UCA to Lay Preachers\nworking with others\nrespect for others\nexercising of ministry\nexercising of leadership\nprofessional conduct\ncompetence and continuing education\nself-care and supervision\nbreaches of the Code of Ethics\npastoral responsibilities\n\n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/understanding-the-lay-preachers-code-of-ethics/
LOCATION:Online\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/arrows.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.4713077;144.7851531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250610T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250610T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250515T005407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T231728Z
UID:10000349-1749546000-1749574800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:40th Anniversary of We Are a Multicultural Church
DESCRIPTION:Being a Multicultural Church: 40 years on \nIn 1985 the Uniting Church declared itself a multicultural church\, embracing the growing cultural diversity of its membership. Today in the Uniting Church we worship in 30 languages other than English (not including Indigenous languages); we have more than 195 groups who worship in a language other than English; and we have 12 national conferences which support congregations and communities of the same culture. \nThe Uniting Church rejoices in its diversity of races\, cultures and languages as God’s gracious gift and seeks be a true multicultural church living its faith and life cross-culturally and inter-culturally. \nPlease join us in celebrating the 40th anniversary of We Are a Multicultural Church! \n\nWhen: Tuesday 10th June\, 2025 \nWhere: Centre for Theology & Ministry; 29 College Crescent\, Parkville 3052 \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/40th-anniversary-of-we-are-a-multicultural-church/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Anni-banner.png
ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250522T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250522T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250407T232136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T024058Z
UID:10000341-1747904400-1747926000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Power and Relationships
DESCRIPTION:Power and Relationships: Joining together for a just world \n  \nThis event aims to empower students’ voice and equip them with the skills to navigate the social and political power structure and to drive genuine change in their local communities. More details to come prior to the event!  \n**This event is specifically for schools associated with the Uniting Church in Australia Network – Synod Victoria and Tasmania \n  \n\nAudience: Students Year 9-10\nDay: Thursday\, May 22\nTime: 9 am to 3 pm.\nLocation: Business Hub\, Level 1\, Wesley Place (130 Lonsdale St\, Melbourne)\nCost: AU$300 (Group of 10 students)\n\n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nFor further details\, contact Paola Rojas paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/power-and-relationships/
LOCATION:Wesley Place\, 130 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne\, Victoria\, 3000\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/unnamed-file.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paola Rojas":MAILTO:paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8101202;144.9686266
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Wesley Place 130 Lonsdale Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=130 Lonsdale Street:geo:144.9686266,-37.8101202
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250516T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250517T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250206T010526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T223143Z
UID:10000340-1747386000-1747515600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:**CANCELLED - Pastoral Partner Program - in person training
DESCRIPTION:Pastoral Partner Program \n  \nTraining coming in May 2025 \n  \nThe Uniting Church recognises the responsibility and freedom which belong to councils to acknowledge gifts among members for the fulfilment of particular functions. The Uniting Church sees in pastoral care exercised personally on behalf of the Church an expression of the fact that God always deals personally with people\, would have God’s loving care known among people\, and would have individual members take upon themselves the form of a servant. (The Basis of Union\, Para 16) \n  \nIn May 2025\, eLM are offering training in the fantastic Pastoral Partner Program with none other than the creator of the Program\, Sharonne Price! \n  \nThis is wonderful training for Congregations and Faith Communities. And is also great training for those Lay Preachers who find themselves in pastoral situations. (Mel Perkins\, Synod Lay Leadership Development Coordinator) \n  \nPeople right across the age range need to be cared for pastorally within congregations and faith communities such as Messy Church. Pastoral Partners provides the training so that members of these communities can feel more confident as they care for one another in all the complexities of life. (Rev Sandy Brodine\, Synod Younger Generations – Education & Strategy Coordinator) \n  \nIn many multicultural congregations\, so called ‘CALD’ congregations\, lay members often play a central role in providing pastoral care because they deeply understand the cultural and linguistic practices of their communities. Equipping them with additional training and resources can be transformative\, enabling them to offer care that is not only spiritually nourishing but also culturally sensitive and effective. (Rev David Kim\, Synod Multicultural Ministries Coordinator) \n  \nWhen: \nFace-to-face across a weekend – Friday 16 May (4 to 9pm) to Saturday 17 May (9am to 5pm) \n  \nWhere: \nAt the Centre for Theology and Ministry (CTM)\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville. Parking will be available at the CTM on Saturday 17 May. \n  \nCost: \n$125 per participant. This includes the cost of training and all meals across the weekend. \n  \nWhile Sharonne will be providing the PPTs from the training\, participants may also like to purchase the Pastoral Partner Program Participant Guide from Wayzgoose –  https://www.wayzgoose.au/product/pastoral-partner-participants-guide/47?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=true \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/pastoral-partner-program-in-person-training/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Pastoral-Partner-program-x-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250506T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250603T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250206T010553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T004558Z
UID:10000339-1746558000-1748984400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Pastoral Partner Program - Online Training
DESCRIPTION:In May 2025\, eLM are offering training in the fantastic Pastoral Partner Program with none other than the creator of the Program\, Sharonne Price! \nThis is wonderful training for Congregations and Faith Communities. And is also great training for those Lay Preachers who find themselves in pastoral situations. (Mel Perkins\, Synod Lay Leadership Development Coordinator) \nPeople right across the age range need to be cared for pastorally within congregations and faith communities such as Messy Church. Pastoral Partners provides the training so that members of these communities can feel more confident as they care for one another in all the complexities of life. (Rev Sandy Brodine\, Synod Younger Generations – Education & Strategy Coordinator) \nIn many multicultural congregations\, so called ‘CALD’ congregations\, lay members often play a central role in providing pastoral care because they deeply understand the cultural and linguistic practices of their communities. Equipping them with additional training and resources can be transformative\, enabling them to offer care that is not only spiritually nourishing but also culturally sensitive and effective. (Rev David Kim\, Synod Multicultural Ministries Coordinator) \nWhen: \nTuesday nights\, 6\, 13\, 20\, 27 May\, 3 June – 7-9pm \nCost: \n$50 per participant. \nWhile Sharonne will be providing the PPTs from the training\, participants may also like to purchase the Pastoral Partner Program Participant Guide from Wayzgoose –  https://www.wayzgoose.au/product/pastoral-partner-participants-guide/47?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=true \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/pastoral-partner-program-online-training/
LOCATION:Online\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Pastoral-Partner-program-x-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.4713077;144.7851531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250506T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250520T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250404T021524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T223421Z
UID:10000346-1746525600-1747756800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Fundamentals of Transitional Ministry
DESCRIPTION:“Fundamentals of Transitional Ministry” is a 3-day program designed to give participants an introduction to the key concepts and practices of ministering with congregations and agencies in times of transition. \nWhile it is a stand-alone program\, it is also the first phase of training that leads to being qualified as an Intentional Interim Minister. Thus\, it is useful in itself for anyone in lay or ordained ministry\, and also for those exploring whether they are called to Intentional Interim Ministry. \nThis initial three-day course is especially helpful for: \n\n\n\nPeople in Presbytery leadership roles\nPeople in the latter half of Third Phase of Ministry\nMinisters intending to do significant amounts of supply\nMinisters moving from chaplaincy/agency roles into congregational ministry\nMinisters in placements going through significant transitions\, such as looking for new mission directions\, contemplating combining/closing\, moving to resource ministry.\n\n\n\nPlease note this is a national\, fully online training\, people from all Synods can attend. \n  \nFor further information and a link to register click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/fundamentals-of-transitional-ministry-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/banner.jpg
GEO:-37.4713077;144.7851531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250501T160000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250504T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241218T023859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T031831Z
UID:10000338-1746115200-1746378000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Gippsland Camino 2025
DESCRIPTION:This is your invitation to walk with us on a Gippsland Camino from the 1-4 May 2025. During this time\, the churches along the Gippsland Rail Trail from Traralgon to Stratford will support you spiritually and physically. \n• We acknowledge that we will be walking on the traditional lands of the GunaiKurnai people.\n• The route will cover 63 Kms over 3 walking days. We will be walking along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail https://gippslandplainsrailtrail.com.au/\n• You are welcome to walk the whole route or parts of the route– each section of the trail will be supported as per the schedule in this booklet.\n• The event starts with a blessing of the pilgrims at Traralgon Uniting Church on the evening of 1st May and concludes with a celebratory service at St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral\, Sale on the afternoon of 4th May.\n• Spiritual resources and prayers for your use are included in this booklet.\n• If you would like to join us then please register online here https://events.humanitix.com/gippsland-camino\n• Registrations close on 4th April 2025.\n• Fees for the supported walk are either $30 per walking day or part thereof\, or $80 for the three days. \n  \nFor more information\, please download the booklet here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/gippsland-camino-2025/
LOCATION:Traralgon Uniting Church\, 19 Park Lane\, Traralgon\, Victoria\, 3844\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Camino-booklet.jpg
GEO:-38.1886149;146.5523141
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Traralgon Uniting Church 19 Park Lane Traralgon Victoria 3844 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=19 Park Lane:geo:146.5523141,-38.1886149
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250407T160000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250407T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250310T231523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T221337Z
UID:10000345-1744041600-1744045200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Book launch for 'What Is Happening to Religion in Australia? Understanding the Trends'
DESCRIPTION:Launch of ‘What Is Happening to Religion in Australia? Understanding the Trends’ \nBy Philip Hughes. \nAnecdotal experience and statistics from the census and surveys indicate clearly that identification with religion is in decline in Australia. This book analyses the trends and\, drawing on international scholarship\, provides a social explanation of what is happening. It looks at the role of immigration in slowing the patterns of change and the different rates that progressive and conservative churches are changing. It suggests ways in which people of faith and churches may respond to these trends. \nProf Andrew Singleton\, a leading sociologist of religion\, at Deakin University will be speaking\, as will Dr Muriel Porter\, a journalist and author of a number of books on religion in Australia. \nThe book is being published by Coventry Press. \nWhere: Yuma Auditorium at The Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville VIC 3021 \nWhen: Monday 7 April\, 4pm to 5pm (followed by light refreshments) \nCost: Free \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/book-launch-for-what-is-happening-to-religion-in-australia-understanding-the-trends/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Event-banner-1-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Philip Hughes":MAILTO:philip.hughes@pilgrim.edu.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250405T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250405T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250219T081723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T052509Z
UID:10000343-1743845400-1743865200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring - Celebrating Stories of New & Renewing
DESCRIPTION:Inspiring – Celebrating Stories Of New & Renewing \nComing together to \n\nencourage each other in the Gospel\ngrow connections\ndiscover fresh ideas of new & renewing\nshare lessons learned from experience\nhear of funding opportunities\n\nWhen: Sat 5 April 10am-3pm (9:30 registration for a 10am start) \nWhere: Centre for Theology & Ministry \nCost: City $45; Rural $30; Online $20 \nTo register\, click here \n*Registrations close strictly Friday 4 April at 11am \n  \nFor more information\, please contact Mat Harry mat.harry@victas.uca.org.au
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/inspiring-celebrating-stories-of-new-renewing/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Inspiring-Events-page-tile-x-px.jpg
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250324T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250324T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20250306T043455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T224459Z
UID:10000344-1742842800-1742850000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Conversation with Steed Davidson
DESCRIPTION:Biblical Studies and the Twilight of the Humanities \nSteed V Davidson \nMonday\, 24 March 2025 \nYuma Auditorium \n7-9 pm \n  \n  \n \nSteed Vernyl Davidson\, a native of Trinidad and Tobago\, serves as the Executive Director of the Society of Biblical Literature. He has degrees from the University of West Indies and Boston University and a PhD from Union Theological Seminary. He has held teaching and administrative positions at the Pacific Lutheran Theological College (Berkeley) and McCormick Theological College (Chicago) where he taught Hebrew Bible/Old Testament through postcolonial studies. He is also ‘Extraordinary Visiting Professor\, Old Testament\,’ Department of Old and New Testament\, Stellenbosch University. \nAmong his publications are Empire and Exile: Postcolonial Readings of the Book of Jeremiah (Bloomsbury\, 2011); Writing/Reading the Bible in Postcolonial Perspective (Brill\, 2017); and the coedited volumes\, Prophetic Otherness: Constructions of Otherness in Prophetic Literature (T & T Clark\, 2021); Queering the Prophet: On Jonah\, and Other Activists (SCM Press\, 2023). \nBiblical Studies and the Twilight of the Humanities \nThe drum beats of the death of the humanities began several decades ago and have not let up. Pressures from within and without institutions dedicated to the study and learning of the human condition that hasten their decline imperil not simply disciplines\, professions\, or programs. The vitality of what it means to be human\, the expansion in the depth of human relationships\, as well as a human’s relationship with the created order are similarly threatened. Biblical Studies that explore the Bible’s ancient engagement of what it means to be human under the power of God has long contributed to the humanities and still has the potential to do even more. Deeper conversations with other disciplines including technology\, expanded public engagement\, accessible research that touches religious communities\, creative and relevant teaching in primary education provide possible paths for reinventing and sustaining Biblical Studies in an age that threats to shrink the community of the world’s people. \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/conversation-with-steed-davidson/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Event-banner-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Monica Melanchthon":MAILTO:monica.melanchthon@pilgrim.edu.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250313T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250313T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241111T032108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T235152Z
UID:10000331-1741856400-1741878000@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Agency and Empowerment - Leading at and beyond school
DESCRIPTION:This event aims to foster critical thinking and nurture leadership\, agency and empowerment in young leaders from Year 10 to 12. ​ \nJoin us to learn from industry leaders as they share their experiences and insights about ethical leadership. \nMore details to come prior to the event! \nWhen: Thursday 13 March 2025\, 9.00am to 3.00pm \nWhere: Wesley Place\, 130 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne 3000 \nCost: $300 – group of 10 students \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \n**This event is open specifically for schools in the Uniting Church Australia Network – Synod Victoria and Tasmania. \n  \nFor further details\, contact Paola Rojas paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au \n  \n \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/agency-and-empowerment-leading-at-and-beyond-school/
LOCATION:Wesley Place\, 130 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne\, Victoria\, 3000\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Young-students-x-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Paola Rojas":MAILTO:paola.rojas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8101202;144.9686266
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Wesley Place 130 Lonsdale Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=130 Lonsdale Street:geo:144.9686266,-37.8101202
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250225T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250630T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241211T040944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250217T013014Z
UID:10000337-1740510000-1751317200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Understanding the UCA
DESCRIPTION:Understanding the UCA has been created around the Core Competency “Work within the doctrine\, ethos and polity of the Uniting Church” from the ‘Assembly Standards and Competencies for the Formation and Education for the Specified Ministry of Lay Preacher’ and UCA Assembly’s Standards for the Ministry if Pastor: Core Competencies’. \nUnderstanding the UCA covers: \n\nHistory of the formation of UCA\nTheological foundations of the Basis of Union\nThe place and role of key aspects of the Church’s life and witness\nUnderstanding the Councils and Ministries of the UCA\nUnderstanding the UCA’s commitment to First Nations People and Intercultural Ministry\nAct2\n\nParticipants are given 4 months to work through the material. They do this mostly themselves. During that time\, there are 4 tutorials held on Zoom (7-9pm). Those who are undertaking the unit for assessment are expected to attend the tutorials. Those who aren’t undertaking assessment are very welcome to attend the tutorials. Dates for the tutorials are as follows for Sem 1: \n\n25 February – Tutorial 1 – introductions\, expectations\, how to access the online unit\, what the assessment is\n18 March – Tutorial 2 – discussion on Topics 1 and 2 (History and theological foundations of the UCA)\n29 April – Tutorial 3 – discussion on Topics 3 and 4 (Life and ministry of the UCA)\n27 May – Tutorial 4 – discussion on Topics 5 and 6 (the UCA’s commitment to Intercultural Ministry and First Peoples)\n\n  \nThose undertaking Understanding the UCA for assessment purposes\, must attend the tutorial and submit the given assessment. \nTo register\, click here \nRegistrations close strictly on Friday 14 February 2025
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/understanding-the-uca-6/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Understanding-UCA-x-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250224T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250526T210000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241211T035720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T234758Z
UID:10000336-1740423600-1748293200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Exploring Theology in the UCA
DESCRIPTION:Exploring Theology in the UCA has been created around the Worship and Preaching Competencies for Biblical studies from the “Assembly Standards and Competencies for the Formation and Education for the Specified Ministry of Lay Preacher”. So\, those training for the ministry of Lay Preaching\, and those needing to undertake training for the Worship and Preaching Competencies for Pastors (as these are the same)\, can be assured they are receiving training to help them meet these competencies. \nHowever\, Exploring Theology in the UCA was also written and developed to encourage faith and discipleship formation. So\, it is also a great unit for: \n\nWorship leaders\npeople undertaking a Period of Discernment\nLay Preachers looking for some continuing education\npeople who would like to explore Theology as a way of deepening their faith and relationship with God and\nanyone just generally interested in knowing more about how we ‘do’ Theology in the UCA.\n\nExploring Theology in the UCA covers: \n\nWhat is Theology and how is it used by individuals and in the church\, particularly the Uniting Church in Australia\nThe meaning of revelation and the authority of Scripture\nThe Trinity\nThe Holy Spirit\nCreation and Eco-Theology\nGod’s Providence and Evil\nHumanity and Sin\nSalvation\nThe Church\nMission\nChristian Hope\n\nExploring Theology in the UCA is offered through access to online learning materials and a Zoom class. \nInternet not great at home? The unit is also designed so that the base material can be downloaded and saved to your computer. Others interested in learning in your Presbytery? Why don’t you learn together – and download your learning material to work on at home. \nThe textbook for Exploring Theology in the UCA (and Exploring Christology) is Faith Seeking Understanding: An Introduction to Christian Theology\, 4th Edition by Daniel Migliore (2023). Please make sure you purchase this book before starting the unit\, and leave time for it to arrive! Available in ebook\, Kindle\, or paperback. It is also available from Koorong in paperback. \nFor those who are very new to theological thinking\, the following two books would be extremely helpful to obtain and read before the unit\, if possible: \n\nThinking the Faith\, Living the Faith: An Introduction to Christian Theology by Christopher C Walker – available in paperback only\nA “Down and Dirty” Guide to Theology by Donald K McKim – available in Kindle or paperback\n\nBoth books are great ‘stepping stones’ or aids in helping you to get your thinking at a different level. Learning theology is like learning a new language\, particularly in the beginning. It can be helpful to ‘step up’ into your formal learning through other reading \n  \nTo register\, click here \nRegistrations close strictly on Friday 14 February 2025 \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/exploring-theology-in-the-uca/
LOCATION:Online\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Banner.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Mel Perkins":MAILTO:mel.perkins@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.4713077;144.7851531
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250218T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20250218T133000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241210T233418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241210T233420Z
UID:10000332-1739871000-1739885400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Uniting Church Ministry & Mission Day
DESCRIPTION:The Centre for Theology and Ministry is hosting a Synod Ministry and Mission Day on Tuesday 18 February 2025\, which will include a welcome to country\, an induction service for the new Lecturer in Systematic Theology and Ministry Formation Coordinator\, and a Commencement lecture by Rev Professor Sathianathan Clarke\, Lecturer in Theology and Mission\, United Theological College\, North Parramatta: “Discipleship in a multireligious world: faithful living in the Jesus Way and gracious loving within the embrace of the Trinity.” \n  \n9.30 am Welcome to country\, smoking ceremony \n10 am    Worship service in Yuma Auditorium\nincluding the induction of new Synod ministry staff. \nPreacher: Rev Dr David Fotheringham\, Moderator\, VicTas Synod. \n11 am     Morning tea \n11.30     Commencement Lecture in Yuma Auditorium\nThe commencement lecture marks the beginning of the academic year for Pilgrim Theological College. \n“Discipleship in a multireligious world: faithful living in the Jesus Way and gracious loving within the embrace of the Trinity.” \nRev Dr Sathianathan Clarke\, Lecturer in Theology and Mission\, United Theological College\, North Parramatta. \n12.45 pm Lunch \n  \n \nAbout Sathi Clarke \nSathianathan (Sathi) Clarke is Lecturer in Theology and Mission at United Theological College\, North Parramatta. \nSathi is a Presbyter of the Church of South India. He bridges the world between establishment and the marginalised\, the global and the local\, and academy and the congregation. He has taught and lectured on global Christianity\, contextual theology\, postcolonial mission\, and interreligious dialogue in India\, the U.S.A.\,\nthe U.K.\, Germany\, Sri Lanka\, Korea\, South Africa\, and Liberia. \nIn his research and teaching\, Sathi has cultivated specialties in contextual theology\, constructive global theology\, and theology of religions. From 1996-2004 he was on the faculty at United Theological College\, Bangalore. He has also been visiting professor at Harvard Divinity School and\, for the last twenty years\, the Bishop Sundo Kim Chair in World Christianity and Professor of Theology\, Culture and Mission at Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington D.C\, a chair Sathi continues to hold in conjunction with his appointment at UTC. \n  \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/uniting-church-ministry-mission-day/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Banner.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Duncan Macleod":MAILTO:duncan.macleod@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241215T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241215T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241111T031458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241210T233739Z
UID:10000330-1734274800-1734278400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Geoff Thompson's Conclusion of Placement Service
DESCRIPTION:Geoff Thompson’s Conclusion of Placement Service. \nGeoff is retiring from his role as Associate Professor in Systematic Theologies. \n  \nWhen: Sunday 15th December  – 3pm service (Followed by refreshments) \nWhere: Brunswick Uniting Church\, 214 Sydney Road Brunswick and online \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/geoff-thompsons-conclusion-of-placement-service/
LOCATION:Brunswick Uniting Church\, 214 Sydney Road\, Brunswick\, Victoria\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/MFA-Geoff-Thompsons-Conclusion-of-Placement-Service-page.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Duncan Macleod":MAILTO:duncan.macleod@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.772608;144.9613464
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Brunswick Uniting Church 214 Sydney Road Brunswick Victoria Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=214 Sydney Road:geo:144.9613464,-37.772608
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241129T160000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241129T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241111T031156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241111T031158Z
UID:10000329-1732896000-1732899600@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Conclusion of Placement service for Sean Winter
DESCRIPTION:Sean Winter’s Conclusion of Placement Service. \nSean is leaving from his role as Head of College at Pilgrim College to take up a new role elsewhere. \n  \nWhen: Friday 29th November – 4pm service (Followed by refreshments) \nWhere: Yuma Auditorium\, Centre for Theology and Ministry\, 29 College Crescent Parkville VIC 3052 and online \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/conclusion-of-placement-service-for-sean-winter/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sean-Banner.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Duncan Macleod":MAILTO:duncan.macleod@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7922071;144.9619031
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Centre for Theology & Ministry 29 College Crescent Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=29 College Crescent:geo:144.9619031,-37.7922071
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241107T173000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20241107T193000
DTSTAMP:20260423T120521
CREATED:20241009T024709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241111T030505Z
UID:10000328-1731000600-1731007800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Pilgrim Valedictory Service 2024
DESCRIPTION:Pilgrim Theological College \nValedictory 2024 \n  \nRev Dr Sean Winter\, Head of College together with the Faculty and Staff at Pilgrim College warmly invite you to join us to celebrate with students who have completed awards in theology\, including candidates for ministries within the UCA. This event will also be available online if you cannot attend the ceremony in person. \n  \nWhen: Thursday 7th November 2024 – service to commence at 5:30pm \nWhere: Wesley Church\, 130-150 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne 3000.  The service will be followed by celebratory refreshments at Wesley Place (Level 2). Please note\, limits may apply. \nGuest Preacher: Salesi Faupula (Moderator Elect) \n  \nTo register\, click here \nRSVP: by Thurs 31 October 2024 \nDress code: Please dress for the occasion\, choosing traditional cultural attire or semi-formal wear as appropriate. \n  \nTransport & Parking: Wesley Church is conveniently located with various public transport options available and street parking is also available in Lonsdale Street. \nFollow up information to those registered regarding access for Level 2 after the service will be sent prior to the event.
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/pilgrim-valedictory-service-2024/
LOCATION:Wesley Church\, 136 Lonsdale Street\, Melbourne\, Victoria\, 3000
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Non-text-banner.jpg
GEO:-37.8101573;144.9682578
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Wesley Church 136 Lonsdale Street Melbourne Victoria 3000;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=136 Lonsdale Street:geo:144.9682578,-37.8101573
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR