BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Uniting Church in Australia. Synod of Victoria and Tasmania - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://victas.uca.org.au
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Uniting Church in Australia. Synod of Victoria and Tasmania
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Australia/Melbourne
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+1100
TZOFFSETTO:+1000
TZNAME:AEST
DTSTART:20240406T160000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+1000
TZOFFSETTO:+1100
TZNAME:AEDT
DTSTART:20241005T160000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+1100
TZOFFSETTO:+1000
TZNAME:AEST
DTSTART:20250405T160000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+1000
TZOFFSETTO:+1100
TZNAME:AEDT
DTSTART:20251004T160000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+1100
TZOFFSETTO:+1000
TZNAME:AEST
DTSTART:20260404T160000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+1000
TZOFFSETTO:+1100
TZNAME:AEDT
DTSTART:20261003T160000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+1100
TZOFFSETTO:+1000
TZNAME:AEST
DTSTART:20270403T160000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+1000
TZOFFSETTO:+1100
TZNAME:AEDT
DTSTART:20271002T160000
END:DAYLIGHT
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251003T170000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251005T170000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
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/
LOCATION:Victoria
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WIC-tile-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251013T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251124T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
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:20251025T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251025T170000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-.jpg
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:20251201T170000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251201T183000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/book-lauch-tile.png
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:20260214T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260214T140000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SIF-tile.png
ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260223T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260223T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20251208T234333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T234333Z
UID:10000357-1771873200-1771880400@victas.uca.org.au
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260409T120000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260411T160000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260303T053447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T045654Z
UID:10000360-1775736000-1775923200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Talanoa 2026
DESCRIPTION:Talanoa 2026 will be a platform for folx to talanoa (tell storied realities\, invite conversations\, explore ways forward) around the “arts of negotiation” in/from their life situations\, and to unpack the “gifts in negotiation” for their communities and for the rest of us. \n  \nThe theme for this conference is “negotiation\,” and there will be keynotes (2)\, presentations (24)\, and panels (4). The keynotes will address “Indigenous justice” (from UAICC) and “Migration and Climate justice” (MP Anasina Gray-Barberio). \n  \nThe presentations will address topics in the general areas of Pasifika cultures\, theology\, bible\, climate justice\, pastoral care\, CPE\, art\, queer\, decolonization\, gender justice\, youth justice\, and more. The panels will be on “Justice matters\,” “Negotiating identities in diaspora\,” “Raising families in diaspora\,” and “Youth matter!” \n  \nThursday\, 9 April 12pm–8pm \nCanterbury Balwyn Uniting Church \n15A Balwyn Rd\, Canterbury 3126 \n  \nFriday\, 10 April 9am–8pm \nCentre for Theology and Ministry \n29 College Crescent\, Parkville 3052 \n  \nSaturday\, 11 April 9am–4pm \nCentre for Theology and Ministry \n29 College Crescent\, Parkville 3052 \n  \nCost \nRegistration fee includes conference materials and meals. \nFull cost $ 120 \nStudent $ 50 \n14yo and under $ 1 \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nFor full program details\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/talanoa-2026/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Talanoa-tile.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:20260413T120000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260420T170000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260220T042918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T042921Z
UID:10000359-1776081600-1776704400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:2026 Contextual Learning Group to South Korea
DESCRIPTION:In 2016\, a group of six people from the VICTAS Synod visited Korean partner churches. After a decade I’m privileged and moved to organise another group of young people to South Korea. \n  \nThey’ll learn about Australian mission work and its missional ties between the two countries. \n  \nThis 7-day intensive group tour visits 3 Korean partner churches of UCA and various mission sites established by Australian missionaries since 1889. The group aims to strengthen historical and missional ties with Korean partner churches and mission organisations. \nThe group will learn and appreciate the UCA’s rich history\, leadership and involvement in ministry and mission works in overseas. The group will receive valuable insights\, particularly highlighting the significant contributions of Victorian missionaries during the early stages of Australian mission works in Korea. There will be a series of group and individual activities with local hosting churches and organisations\, debriefing and sharing sessions among participants and several group tours learning more about local culture and food. \nPlease submit your expression of interest by the end of 9 March 2026 \n  \n\nTitle: 2026 Contextual Learning Group to South Korea\nDuration: 13 April\, Monday evening ~ 20 April\, Monday afternoon\nVenue: various mission sites in Seoul\, Busan\, Masan and Chang Won in South Korea\nRequirements: Participants must have a valid passport\, be aware of their own medical and dietary needs and be able to walk approximately 6–8 km including subway staircases each day.\nWho can join: friends and colleagues in the VICTAS Synod\nWhat’s next: Once accepted\, you need to arrange your own round-trip ticket between Melbourne and Seoul\, South Korea. (after registration\, a copy of ‘2026 CLG guideline booklet’ will be emailed)\nContact: Rev David Dong Won Kim\, VICTAS Synod Multicultural Ministries Coordinator (0400 213 205 / david.Kim@victas.uca.org.au)\n\n  \n  \nTo register your expression of interest\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/2026-contextual-learning-group-to-south-korea/
LOCATION:Victoria
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Untitled-design-.png
ORGANIZER;CN="David Kim":MAILTO:david.kim@victas.uca.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260630T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260630T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260602T235114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260602T235614Z
UID:10000361-1782846000-1782853200@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:The Narrow Bridge
DESCRIPTION:The Narrow Bridge \nFree Film screening and Discussion \nA story of loss\, courage and human connection \n  \nWhen: Tuesday 30 June\, 7 pm – 9 pm \nWhere: Essendon North Uniting Church\, 132 Keilor Road\, Essendon North \n  \n“The Narrow Bridge” follows four individuals whose lives have been shattered by conflict in the Middle East – yet who respond not with a desire for revenge\, but with courage and compassion. \n  \nRami\, Bassan\, Bushra\, and Maytal have each lost a child or parent. In the face of unimaginable grief\, they choose to transform their pain into a bridge towards understanding and peace. \n  \nHow do we live after a devastating loss? \nHow do we resist being defined by hatred? \nHow do we hold onto our humanity in the face of violence? \n  \nAfter the film there will be a facilitated conversation exploring themes of reconciliation\, shared humanity and connection across faiths. \n  \nEndorsed by: \n·         Essendon North Uniting Church \n·         Uniting Church in Australia\, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania \n·         Moonee Valley Interfaith Network \n·         Council of Christians and Jews Victoria \n  \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/the-narrow-bridge/
LOCATION:North Essendon Uniting Church\, 132 Keilor Road\, Essendon North\, Victoria\, 3041\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/the-narrow-bridge-tile.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Mark Zirnsak":MAILTO:mark.zirnsak@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.7407672;144.90205
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=North Essendon Uniting Church 132 Keilor Road Essendon North Victoria 3041 Australia;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=132 Keilor Road:geo:144.90205,-37.7407672
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260721T193000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260721T213000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260603T000400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T000401Z
UID:10000362-1784662200-1784669400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Live reading of Mark's Gospel
DESCRIPTION:In a candle lit church\, gather with others to hear the whole of Mark’s Gospel read aloud in one evening. There will be mulled wine\, space for reflection\, and gentle silence. Whether you are spiritual-not-religious\, part of a faith community\, or simply curious to hear this ancient text come alive\,  you are welcome. \n  \nWhere: Brunswick Uniting Church \nWhen: 7.30pm Tuesday 21st July \nCost: Free \n  \nTo register\, click here
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/live-reading-of-marks-gospel/
LOCATION:Brunswick Uniting Church\, 214 Sydney Road\, Brunswick\, Victoria\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Marks-gospel.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sally Douglas":MAILTO:sally.douglas@pilgrim.edu.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:20260725T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T170000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260603T034617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T235631Z
UID:10000363-1784971800-1784998800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:2026 JIM Convention
DESCRIPTION:Blessed are the Peacemakers – Building a Peace Church \nJustice and International Mission Convention 2026 \nWhere: Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville \nWhen: Saturday 25 July 2026\, 9:30 am – 4:45 pm \nCost: $50 for metropolitan participants/$25 concession and non-metropolitan Melbourne participants \n  \nThe 1982 National Assembly affirmed the Uniting Church in Australia to be a peacemaking body and encouraging alternatives to war. However\, the resolution did not rule out the use of “Just War” in exceptional circumstances. With a number of serious armed conflicts around the world\, and increased polarisation across communities\, the following statement from the World Council of Churches is highly relevant: \nWe are convinced: A clear witness to peace and nonviolence grounded in justice is what the world needs today from all the churches together…As Christians\, we are motivated and encouraged by the Gospel message of the peace of Christ and the rich Biblical tradition of peace and justice…We want to engage in constructive efforts to build a culture of peace. \n  \nTrue peace-building must seek to create socially just outcomes\, not simply aim for the absence of violence. Without addressing underlying injustices\, the chance for lasting peace fall to near zero. \n  \nAn assessment of civil resistance movements between 2010 and 2019 found 34% of non-violent struggles succeeded compared to 9% of violent campaigns. Thus\, in practice\, non-violent campaigns are four times more likely to be successful than violent ones. \n  \nThe focus of the 2026 Justice and International Mission Convention will be to explore how Uniting Church members can build greater engagement on non-violent peacebuilding. \n  \nKeynote speakers \n  \nDr. Nida Shoughry \nCo-Director\, Center for Women\, Peace and Security\, Itach-Ma’aki \n  \nDr Shoughry is a scholar-practitioner working at the intersection of feminist peacebuilding\, conflict transformation\, and women’s political participation. She has co-trained and accompanied over 100 Palestinian and Israeli women leaders in preparation for peace negotiations. She has collected more than 2\,000 online accounts of Palestinian women documenting survival\, resistance\, and visions for peace. \n  \nDr. Tsameret Levy-Daphny \nStrategic Advisor and Lecturer; Fellow\, Forum for Regional Thinking \n  \nDr Levy-Daphny is an expert on Turkey and the Middle East\, and a lecturer and strategic advisor with over 25 years of experience in Israeli academia and civic initiatives. She previously headed the Turkey Forum at the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute\, where she led research programs and regional collaborations. \n  \nDr. Matt Anslow \nMatthew is a biblical scholar and theologian\, activist\, author\, and preacher. \n  \nMatthew’s first book\, Fulfilling the Law and the Prophets\, was published in 2022 and he has published numerous academic and popular articles on subjects such as peacemaking\, nonviolent activism\, agriculture\, biblical studies\, preaching\, and philosophy. \nProgram \n9:30 am – 9:45 am Acknowledgement of Country and Opening Worship \n  \n9:45 am – 10:45 am Plenary Session \nTheological reflections on peace building – Matthew Anslow \n  \n10:45 am – 11:15 am Morning Tea \n  \n11:15 am – 12:30 pm \nHalf the Story\, None of the Power: Women\, Exclusion\, and the Failure of Israeli-Palestinian Peace – Nida Shoughry and Tsameret Levy-Daphny \n  \n12:30 pm – 1:30 pm Lunch \n  \n1:30 pm – 2:15 pm Workshop Session 1 \n  \n2:20 pm – 3:05 pm Workshop Session 2 \n  \n3:05 pm – 3:30 pm Afternoon tea \n  \n3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Plenary Session – How to build support for non-violent peacebuilding and the direction of the JIM Cluster \n  \n4:30 pm – 4:45 pm Closing worship \nThe Workshops \n\nSwords into ploughshares – Campaigning against the arms trade\, including autonomous weapons and biological weapons\n\nFacilitator: Mark Zirnsak \n  \n\nNon-Violent Strategies versus Armed Conflict – How do we assess the alternatives?\n\nFacilitator: Mark Zirnsak \n  \n\nMove the Money Campaign – Increasing funding for peacebuilding\n\nFacilitator: Heather Clarke\, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom \n  \n\nEcumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel – Practical non-violent involvement in conflict zones\n\nFacilitators: John Wardlaw (who recently returned from a placement in the West Bank) and Rev Sandy Boyce\, Executive Officer\, Victorian Council of Churches \n  \n\nPeacebuilding in Myanmar\n\nFacilitator: Myanmar Campaign Network \n  \n\nSolidarity with peacebuilders in Palestine and Israel\n\nFacilitator: Friends of Standing Together Melbourne \n  \n\nCorrecting the historical injustice of the colonial conquest of Australia\n\nFacilitator: Tim Molineux\, Synod Social Justice Officer \n  \n\nAddressing family\, domestic and sexual violence\n\nFacilitator: Mark Zirnsak \n  \n\nSettings relationships right: practicing peace in congregations\n\nFacilitator: Rev Michael Wood\, author of “Practicing Peace: Theology\, Contemplation\, and Action” \n  \n\nWhat does peace-building look like in real communities today? The experience of UnitingWorld’s partner in Maluku\, Indonesia\n\nFacilitator: Antony McMullen\, Church Engagement Manager at UnitingWorld \n  \n\nPeace-building in the Philippines\n\n\n     12. From Story to Strategy: What Can Australians Do for Inclusive Israeli-Palestinian Peace? \nFacilitators: Dr Nida Shoughry and Dr Tsameret Levy-Daphny \n  \n  \n  \nDietary Requirements \nAll catering will be vegetarian to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the catering. \n  \nIf you have a special dietary requirement please let us know when you register. \n  \nTo register\, click here \n 
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/2026-jim-convention/
LOCATION:Centre for Theology & Ministry\, 29 College Crescent\, Parkville\, Victoria\, 3052\, Australia
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/JIM-tile.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:20260727T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261012T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260609T025748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T025750Z
UID:10000364-1785178800-1791838800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Understanding the UCA
DESCRIPTION:This unit is designed for those interested in learning more about the identity\, history\, and life of the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA). It explores our historical formation\, theological foundations\, and the Basis of Union\, as well as the Church’s life\, witness\, and governance structures within its councils and ministries. \nParticipants will also engage with the UCA’s commitment to First Nations peoples and intercultural ministry through integrated learning and an optional Enrichment Day (available via separate registration). \nThis unit is particularly suitable for individuals undertaking Specified Lay Ministries programs—such as Lay Preacher and Ministry of Pastor—as it addresses the Assembly Standards core competency: “Work within the doctrine\, ethos\, and polity of the Uniting Church.” It also serves as a valuable introduction for ministers new to the UCA. \n  \nTo register\, click here \nRegistrations close strictly on Friday 17 July 2026
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/understanding-the-uca-8/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/UUCA-tile.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Amanda Nicholas":MAILTO:amanda.nicholas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260805T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261007T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260609T051626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T051628Z
UID:10000365-1785956400-1791406800@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Exploring the Old Testament (ULVT4)
DESCRIPTION:This Uniting Learning unit is an invitation to participants to deepen their response to and faith in God as Trinity. The Old Testament describes God and how God acts in history and creation. Major themes that impact on Christianity find their beginning in the words of the Old Testament scripture. The unit is closely integrated with the study of the life of Israel as a community of faith as well as historical and contemporary scholarship. \n  \nDates: Wednesday 5\, 12\, 19\, 26 August; 16\, 23\, 30 September; 7 October \n  \nTo register\, click here \n  \nRegistrations close strictly on Monday 27th July
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/exploring-the-old-testament-ulvt4/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://victas.uca.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/EOT-tile.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Amanda Nicholas":MAILTO:amanda.nicholas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261026T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261130T210000
DTSTAMP:20260615T043013
CREATED:20260609T052216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T052218Z
UID:10000366-1793041200-1796072400@victas.uca.org.au
SUMMARY:Exploring Worship in the UCA
DESCRIPTION:This Uniting Learning unit introduces participants to an understanding of worship and its biblical and theological warrant\, patterns of worship in the church and in the Reformed and evangelical tradition (Uniting Church). Participants will look at elements of worship in constructing a service\, exploring and choosing resources for worship (Uniting in Worship 2\, video\, book and online resources). The unit includes approaches and contexts for worship including multi-sensory and multi-intelligence\, communicating effectively\, and ethics and knowing yourself as a worship leader. \n\nTo register\, click here \n\nRegistrations close strictly on Monday 19th October
URL:https://victas.uca.org.au/event/exploring-worship-in-the-uca-2/
LOCATION:Online
ORGANIZER;CN="Amanda Nicholas":MAILTO:amanda.nicholas@victas.uca.org.au
GEO:-37.8136276;144.9630576
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR