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Fun, fellowship and faith
Rev Deacon Jeanne Beale has contributed a wonderful article outlining how over 40 people came together recently for fun, fellowship and faith at the Uniting Faith and Families camp.
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Worship paints perfect picture
The joining of worship and art has created an exciting new space for Banyule Network of Uniting Churches members, thanks to some inspiration from Mission Development Facilitator David Landis-Morse.
SERFing a better climate future
A number of Uniting Church congregations outline how they have used money from the Synod Emission Reduction Fund and the benefits it has brought them in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Hidden networks and inequality
Elite privilege in Australia is not just about wealth. Researcher and author Associate Professor Myra Hamilton explains how wealth, networks and institutions quietly sustain inequality, and how to dismantle them.
Entranced by the manse
The manse in Oatlands, Tasmania was once home to Presbyterian and Uniting Church ministers, and new owner Clare Dean is enjoying bringing it back to life.
Spotlight on social justice
Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak tells Crosslight magazine of the important social justice resolutions passed at the recent Synod meeting.
Walking the journey together
In his first column for Crosslight magazine, new Moderator Rev Salesi Faupula reminds us that God keeps calling us forward as pilgrims of the Spirit.
Spotlight to shine on discernment
The Centre for Theology and Ministry will host Discernment Day on October 25, and Rev Lauren Mosso has provided some information on what those attending in person or online will gain from the event.
Curtain closes on Synod 2025
Synod 2025 came to a close yesterday, ending four days of wonderful highlights, and the opportunity for members to guide the Uniting Church into an exciting future.
Consensus on some proposals
Consensus was reached on a number of proposals during yesterday's final day of Synod 2025, including one relating to the conflict in the Middle East and non-violent anti-genocide action.
Faithful debate bears fruit
Consensus on the Faithful Futures Project and exploring the need to address past injustices suffered by Victoria's First Peoples were all part of deep discussion and discernment on day three of Synod 2025.
Synod told why Treaty matters
A Treaty in Victoria would be a step towards addressing past injustices suffered by indigenous Victorians, members at Synod 2025 were told today.
Support flows on day two
Day two of Synod 2025 has ended this evening, featuring support from the Moderator for those impacted by today's anti-immigration march, a Tributes Service and address from President Rev Charissa Suli.
President delivers report
President Rev Charissa Suli has delivered her report at Synod 2025, calling on Uniting Church members in Victoria and Tasmania to embrace the opportunity offered by becoming a fully multicultural Church.
Support flows in wake of march
Moderator Rev Salesi Faupula has offered an impassioned show of support for people affected by today's anti-immigration march in Melbourne.
Advocates give peace a voice
Uniting Church members at Synod 2025 heard last night from two peace advocates sending the message and the hope that we can imagine an end to conflict in the Middle East.
New Moderator marks day one
The installation of Rev Salesi Faupula was the highlight of today’s opening day of Synod 2025, the four-day gathering of Uniting Church members from Victoria and Tasmania, which continues until Tuesday.
Covenanting journey continues
In Victoria and Tasmania, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress continues the journey forged with the Uniting Church through the 1994 Covenant.
Outgoing Moderator offers thanks
Rev David Fotheringham has ended his term as Moderator, thanking Uniting Church members in Victoria and Tasmania for the privilege of serving them faithfully in the role over the past three years.
Synod installs new Moderator
The Synod has a new Moderator, with Rev Salesi Faupula installed into the role at Kingswood College in Box Hill this morning.
Leading the way on climate action
Students from a number of Uniting Church-associated schools gathered recently at an event aimed at sustaining our environment through action.
Why UCA characteristics matter
Relationships and Connections Director with equipping Leadership for Mission, Adrian Pyle, outlines how 'Uniting Church characteristics' can work for schools, boards and communities.
Listening beyond agendas
Relationships and Connections Director with equipping Leadership for Mission, Adrian Pyle, outlines the importance of pausing for reflection ahead of meetings of school councils or boards.
Speakers give peace a voice
Palestinian and Israeli Jewish peace-builders, Riman Barakat and Peta Jones Pellach, are members of peace organisations striving for a non-violent resolution to the conflict in the Middle East.
Friends unite in faith
Former ‘Catholic Advocate’ managing editor Peter Lalor Philp writes about the wonderful connection around faith he has forged with Fish Creek Uniting Church minister Rev Jim Murray.
Messy Church means business
Rev Sandy Brodine outlines some of the highlights of the international Messy Church Conference 2025 and the reasons why Messy Church continues to thrive around the world.
Pilgrim builds strong reputation
As Pilgrim Theological College marks its 10th anniversary, Acting Head of College Philip Hughes outlines the important role the college plays in research.
Non-violence and change
Non-violent resistance movements are far more likely to succeed than those that rely on killing, writes Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak.
Real change within reach
Next week's Economic Reform Roundtable in Canberra represents a real opportunity to address systemic issues of inequality in Australia, says Synod Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak.
Where there’s a Will there’s a way
A Uniting Church scholarship has allowed two Ormond College students to travel to Indonesia as part of a medical placement.
In his father’s footsteps
Rev Salesi Faupula will be installed as Moderator of Victoria and Tasmania on August 30, and his late father Haloti will be with him in spirit every step of the way.
David signs off, with thanks
Rev David Fotheringham, who will finish his term as Moderator at the end of August, reflects on his three years in the role, and some of the joys and challenges involved.
Spotlight shines on inequality
The growth of financial and political inequality, and their associated negative impacts on society, were some of the issues tackled on Saturday as part of the Justice and International Mission Cluster's annual Convention.
Statement on Yoorrook report
Moderator Rev David Fotheringham has issued a media statement following yesterday's release of the Yoorrook Justice Commission's final report.
Support flowers at Hampton Park
Each year, funds manager U Ethical’s operating surplus supports a number of Uniting Church community service initiatives, just like Hampton Park.
Reflections on the birth of UCA
The Uniting Church in Australia celebrated its 48th anniversary last Sunday, offering an opportunity for former Synod of Victoria Moderator Rev Allan Thompson to recall the excitement around its creation in 1977.
Faith, protest and protection
Proposed laws in Victoria around protests near places of worship have led to discussion about their possible impact on civil liberties, religious safety, and social cohesion.
New connections, big ideas
Leadership was the key theme as schools associated with the Uniting Church Synod gathered at Wesley Place recently for a day of powerful conversations, connection and reflection.
Social justice and service
From holding numerous roles within the Uniting Church to walking the halls of State Parliament as an MP, a commitment to public service has been at the heart of retiring Uniting Vic.Tas CEO Bronwyn Pike’s life.
Love, life and long health
In 1987, current Uniting Church Community Connections Co-ordinator Viliami Vea was told his sister Fe’ofa’aki Helotu was dying. What he did next gave her a shot at a long and wonderful life.
Give the gift of warmth
During winter, your financial support can help Uniting Vic.Tas give deserving people a roof over their heads and a sense of safety.
Change takes root in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, UnitingWorld is helping to address the twin crises of poverty and climate instability in ways that are sustainable, inclusive and community-led.
Ascot Vale flags support
Despite repeated vandalism, Ascot Vale Uniting Church members continue to fly the flag for the LGBTIQA+ community.
Time to act on unhealthy food
In his regular Crosslight magazine column, Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak writes that action is needed to stop food companies from profiting at the expense of our health.
Churches embrace common good
In his regular Crosslight column, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham writes about the wonderful co-operation that exists among different denominations in the cause for common good.
Honours list recognises service
Uniting Church members have been recognised in this year's King's Birthday Honours List for services to the Church and the wider community.
Countdown on for Synod 2025
The countdown clock is ticking down towards Synod 2025, to be held in Box Hill from August 30 to September 2.
All walks of life welcome
Beechworth Uniting Church’s annual Celtic Pilgrimage has become an important event on the calendar for those who enjoy contemplative and supported walking.
Building a better future
Uniting Vic.Tas’ Better Futures program is giving young people a real shot at creating a better life for themselves.
Best of both worlds
A recent redevelopment has Coburg Uniting Church Minister Rev Ron Rosinsky and congregation members looking ahead to a bright future.
Food truck a vehicle for good
Each year, funds manager U Ethical’s operating surplus supports a number of Uniting Church community service initiatives, such as the Cranbourne Food Truck.
Moderator’s Easter message
As we prepare to mark Easter, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham’s video message asks us to pause and reflect on the realities of injustice, sin and death, while holding on to the hope imbued in us by God's love.
Pet loss and grief explored
Uniting Church Minister Rev Barbara Allen has written a helpful book for those mourning the loss of a beloved pet.
Standing tall for a Treaty
Driven in part by the heartbreak of the missed opportunity to give First Nations people a Voice to Parliament, a number of Uniting Church congregations are working hard towards the establishment of a Treaty in Victoria.
Opportunity exists for Treaty
Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak writes that a Treaty in Victoria will be a step towards correcting past injustices against First Nations people.
Synod 2025 updates announced
Dates and further details have been announced for Synod 2025, which wil be held at Box Hill Town Hall in August.
Psalm 37 shows us the way
In his regular Crosslight column, and ahead of Easter, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham draws on Psalm 37 and reminds us "do not fret, trust God, do what is good".
From inspiration to impact
Year 10 to 12 students from schools connected to the Uniting Church gathered at Wesley Place recently for an engaging day centred around leadership, learning and inspiration.
Indigenous garden blooms
Healesville Yarra Glen Uniting Church members are demonstrating their commitment to walking together with First Nations people, through the establishment of an indigenous garden.
Grants offer great opportunities
A number of grants are available to support a wide range of programs and initiatives throughout the Uniting Church in Victoria and Tasmania.
Continuing education for chaplains
Schools Engagement Co-ordinator with equipping Leadership for Mission, Paola Rojas, outlines two new courses being introduced by Pilgrim Theological College this year.
Community service with Uniting Vic.Tas
Schools Engagement Co-ordinator with equipping Leadership for Mission, Paola Rojas, writes about the community service opportunities available through Uniting Vic.Tas.
CALD to share their voice
Culturally and linguistically diverse members of the Uniting Church are being urged to share their voices at Synod 2025 in August.
Church’s agents of change
As Macarthur Uniting Church members celebrate a special anniversary next month, they are proud to belong to a congregation that embraces different faith denominations.
Act now on Act2 Project
National Assembly General Secretary Andrew Johnson invites Uniting Church members to continue having a say in shaping the Church’s future through the Act2 Project.
Update on Faithful Futures
In his regular Crosslight magazine column, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham provides an update on the Faithful Futures Project.
Making the internet safer
Today marks Safer Internet Day, a day of worldwide action promoting online safety and working towards a safer internet.
Surveys offer vital snapshot
The results of two annual surveys to be sent out to congregations next month provide vital information around the health of the Uniting Church in Victoria and Tasmania.
Special guest for opening
Rev Dr Sathianathan Clarke from United Theological College in Sydney will present the Commencement Lecture when Pilgrim Theological College opens the academic year on February 18.
Recognition for their service
On Australia Day, we pay tribute to a number of people with Uniting Church connections who have been recognised in the annual Honours List.
Faithful Futures Project update
Moderator Rev David Fotheringham has provided an update on the Faithful Futures Project, which will help to discern future priorities of the Church in Victoria and Tasmania, and direct resources in response to the call of the gospel.
Moderator’s Christmas message
In his Christmas message, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham asks us all to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God".
Joining forces in faith
Charman Uniting Church's new headquarters will open next year, a fitting exclamation mark to a story of how four congregations became one.
Dollars make good sense
The vibrant congregation at Ringwood Uniting Church continues to live out the ethos of Faithful Giving through a strong commitment to missional work.
Connecting with community
From their op shop and coffee spot to ongoing support for Pacific Island workers and a local school music program, Uniting Church congregation members continue to make a positive contribution to the city of Bairnsdale.
President’s Christmas message
The Christmas message from Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Charissa Suli is now available to download, watch and share! In her first Christmas message as President, Rev Suli reflects on how the good news of this season surprises us…
Hope stitched up through project
A Uniting Vic.Tas community project which began with a coffee cup fundraising idea is providing warmth and security for Victoria’s homeless.
Project’s stamp of approval
The Sammy Stamp fundraising project has contributed $1.15 million to numerous deserving causes, thanks to the efforts of its tireless volunteers.
Gift of giving fights poverty
An Everything in Common gift card for a loved one is a perfect way to spread the Christmas spirit while helping communities throughout the world fight poverty.
Chaplains signify Christmas spirit
Frontier Services' bush chaplains are bringing the spirit of Christmas to families in remote parts of Australia.
Bowl filled with compassion
Act for Peace's Christmas Bowl and Uniting Church communities have been giving hope to displaced families for 75 years.
Sharing wealth promotes goodwill
Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak believes the redistribution of wealth could create more peace, joy and goodwill in the world.
Advent and a call for peace
During this period of Advent, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham asks us to continue to call for a just peace and rebuilding in the Holy Land.
Pilgrim students complete studies
Pilgrim Theological College said goodbye to 17 students at last Thursday's Valedictory Service at Wesley Church.
Funeral service for Rev Dr Michelle Cook
Final details are now in place for the funeral service for Rev Dr Michelle Cook, which will take place on Thursday (November 14).
Faith and hope in focus
Rev Colin Gurteen and Rev Carol Bennett from Tasmania reflect on a recent trip spent working for the Pilgrim Presbytery of Northern Australia.
Treaty logo now available
The First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria has give the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania permission to use the 'Friends of Treaty for Victoria' logo in church material.
Generosity reaches great heights
Through a range of initiatives, Burwood Heights Uniting Church members continue to live out the ethos of Faithful Giving.
Staff share stories of support
The wonderful work being carried out at Uniting Vic.Tas was outlined in a special Share Sunday service at Wesley Church recently.
Bayswater’s beacon of hope
At Bayswater Uniting Church, people struggling with mental health challenges and social isolation are finding a home through the Elm St Mission.
Poles promote peace message
Two Uniting Church congregations in Tasmania have embraced peace poles to promote an important message around humanity coming together.
Duty calls us on care
In his regular Crosslight magazine column, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham writes about "faith being seen in action for good for those in need".
Cookbook success tastes sweet
For 120 years the Presbyterian Women's Mission Union Cookbook has been the go-to resource for wonderful meals, making October 24 an anniversary well worth celebrating.
Pastoral letter on Treaty
Following his recent pastoral letter on the publication of the Synod’s submission to the Yoorrook Justice Commission, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham has written a second letter to introduce a Statement in Support of Treaty that has now been released by the Synod Standing Committee.
Pastoral letter on Yoorrook
Moderator Rev David Fotheringham has written a pastoral letter following the Yoorrook Justice Commission's decision to allow the Synod to release its submission to the Commission.
Pen to paper seals deal
Launceston North Uniting Church Minister Rev Caro Field has written a wonderful article about the special relationship between the Tasmanian Chin Christian Church and LNUC and the Presbytery of Tasmania.
Mission flies at Airport West
Airport West Uniting Church members are embracing the concept of Faithful Giving, and the joy to be found in supporting people through missional activities.
Sharon returns to a new role
Former Assembly President Rev Sharon Hollis has returned to the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania to fill the role of Associate General Secretary.
Climate right for action
Warragul Uniting Church congregation members are tackling the negative impacts of climate change with some innovative thinking.
Small in number, big in heart
Johnsonville Uniting Church congregation members are making a hugely positive contribution to the health and wellbeing of people in the Pacific Islands.
Long journey for President
A profile of Rev Charissa Suli, who made history last month when she was installed as the Uniting Church in Australia’s youngest President.
God’s stories worth exploring
Examples of God's story can be found in so many places, says Moderator Rev David Fotheringham in his Crosslight magazine column.
Sean to step down at Pilgrim
Rev Associate Professor Sean Winter has resigned as Head of College at Pilgrim Theological College and will finish in the role on November 30.
Service pays tribute to Andy
A passion for, and commitment to, pastoral education and disability inclusion was celebrated yesterday at a service honouring the work of Rev Deacon Dr Andy Calder.
That’s a wrap for Assembly
The 17th Assembly concluded this week following six days of discussion, discernment and engagement among Uniting Church members from throughout the country.
Covenant date celebrated
Today marks the 30th anniversary of the Covenant between the Uniting Church in Australia and the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.
Covenant journey explored
Members of the Walking Together in Covenant committee gathered in Tasmania recently for deep discussion around the journey between First and Second Peoples.
Narana change announced
After 30 years, a decision has been made by the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress to return indigenous cultural centre Narana Creations to the Wathaurong Co-Op.
Chapter closed on camping
The Synod of Victoria and Tasmania's decision last year to sell its camping sites brought back a host of memories for those who enjoyed great times spent outdoors.
Congregation powers on
Queenscliff-Point Lonsdale congregation members are embracing renewable energy in the fight against climate change.
Monica welcomes colleague
Pilgrim Theological College's Monica Melanchthon recently caught up with friend, colleague and former Bishop for the Madras Diocese of the Church of South India, Vedanayagam Devasahayam.
Commitment and community
Warrnambool Uniting Church's strong missional commitment to the local community, and beyond, lies at the heart of what makes it such a wonderful congregation.
Faith and family to fore
Scoresby Uniting Church's 150-year history and important role in the community was celebrated recently.
Democracy in the spotlight
As inequality in Australia grows, people with little money have less of a say in how we are governed. The Synod's Justice and International Mission Cluster wants to change that.
Bush chaplains go extra mile
Frontier Services' bush chaplains continue to go above and beyond the call of duty around regional and remote Australia.
Uniting Church members honoured
Uniting Church members have been recognised in this year's King's Birthday Honours List for services to the Church and the wider community.
Spread warmth this winter
Prahran's Hartley’s Community Meals has provided a sense of community and connection for over 30 years for those doing it tough.
Focus on content accessibility
A series of workshops are guiding Synod staff members and Ministers, Lay Leaders and Church Councils on how to prepare content for people with a disability.
Action stations on Act2 report
The final report of the Act2 Project has been released to 17th Assembly members and the wider Uniting Church ahead of July's Assembly meeting.
Working towards a just future
In his regular Crosslight magazine column, Moderator Rev David Fotheringham calls on Uniting Church members to walk alongside our First Peoples towards reconciliation.
Jessica’s on a mission
Northcote Uniting Church member Jessica Hateley-Browne was commissioned recently as the new Director of Mission at Uniting VicTas.