A changing of the guard took place in Melbourne last night, with Rev David Fotheringham installed as Synod of Victoria and Tasmania Moderator.
Last night’s Opening Worship service at Wesley Church in central Melbourne also farewelled Denise Liersch at the conclusion of her three-year term as Moderator, and officially opened the 16th Synod Meeting.
General Secretary Rev Dr Mark Lawrence reaffirmed the decision of last year’s Synod Meeting that David be installed as Moderator from 2022 until 2025 and, at 8.08pm, Denise had the honour of making David’s appointment official.
“By the authority of this Synod I now declare Rev David Fotheringham to be Moderator,” Denise said.
In accepting his appointment, David paid tribute to Denise for her service as Moderator, which began in 2019.
Last night’s Opening Worship included two musical pieces written specifically for the Synod Meeting.
Arise, based on the Song of Solomon, was written by Rev Jennie Gordon, while Come with me my love was written by Rev Malcolm Frazer, and arranged by David MacGregor.
Uniting Church members had the opportunity to tour the Synod’s office at Wesley Place before the Opening Worship, while supper was also provided after the event.
The business part of Synod 2022 begins today and runs until Sunday at Box Hill Town Hall, with all three days livestreamed via YouTube.
Members can click here to watch proceedings.
