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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.
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The Lord/Force be with you
The hit 1977 movie 'Star Wars' and its character Obi-Wan Kenobi offer plenty to ponder for people of faith, says author Peter Malone.
Questions on the Bible
Author Meredith Lake believes questioning the messages we’ve inherited from a colonial Bible is central to understanding our faith.
The meet of the matter
Synod 2022 last month brought together about 200 people for three days of deep engagement and discernment around issues affecting the Uniting Church in Victoria and Tasmania.
Synod 2022 day three recap
Synod 2022 wrapped up today, with a number of proposals adopted, and seven members elected to the Standing Committee.
Synod 2022 day two recap
Today's second day of Synod 2022 included a response to Tasmania’s End-Of-Life Choices (Voluntary Assisted Dying) legislation, and well-deserved recognition for former eLM executive officer Jenny Byrnes.
Synod 2022 day one recap
Day one of Synod 2022 today welcomed new Moderator David Fotheringham, featured a report from outgoing Moderator Denise Liersch, and included the tabling of a number of important reports.
New Moderator installed
Wesley Church was the setting last night as Rev David Fotheringham was officially installed as Synod of Victoria and Tasmania Moderator, replacing outgoing Moderator Denise Liersch.
Fond farewell to Denise
As Denise Liersch prepares to leave the role of Moderator, she reflects on a three-year term which involved a number of unexpected challenges.
Building on faith
For 150 years, a Lockwood South church has been the spiritual centre for generations of worshippers.
Reconciliation on right track
As our First Peoples mark National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week, the push for change continues to gather momentum.
Home is where the art is
A two-bedroom property sold recently in north-western Tasmania contained an interesting feature which recognised its link to history as a former church.
Safe space to speak up
Inclusion and diversity will be front and centre when the Sacrededge Festival returns to Queenscliff this month.
Good Friday story challenges us
The story of the death of Jesus on Good Friday forces us to think deeply about the consequences of our own actions, writes retired UC Minister John Evans.
Focus on heads and tales
Manningham Uniting Church will give a voice to the stories, hopes and struggles of those people on the margins during its Building Bridges Through Story event next month.
Sylvia relishes new role
Rev Sylvia 'Akau'ola Tongotongo brings a wealth of experience to her new role in intercultural development within equipping Leadership for Mission.
Indigenous link honoured with renaming
Rooms at the Centre for Theology and Ministry in Parkville have been renamed to acknowledge the fact they are located on Wurundjeri land.
Synod 2022 offers the chance to have a say
Moderator-elect David Fotheringham has invited Uniting Church members to take an active part in Synod 2022, to be held from June 30 to July 3.
Australia Day honours for UC members
A number of Uniting Church members have been recognised for their service to the Church and community in this year's Australia Day awards.
Faith to the fore in Tonga after tsunami
The people of Tonga will bounce back from the devastation caused by a recent tsunami, say Victorian-based Uniting Church members from the South Pacific Island nation.
Call to prayer after tsunami devastates Tonga
Uniting Church members are being urged to pray for the people of Tonga, after the South Pacific Island nation was devastated by a tsunami last weekend.
COVID-19 warning for congregations
Church Councils have been reminded of their obligations to ensure they are COVID-compliant in the interests of health and wellbeing.
Peace of mind in music
Music is providing much-needed relief to people living with dementia, including those in Uniting AgeWell facilities.
Members urged to speak up
The call is out encouraging younger members and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to nominate for next year's Synod Meeting.
How do we reopen doors?
As we return to a sense of normality following COVID-19 lockdowns, a recent Synod online forum raised plenty of interesting questions around vaccination and how our congregations navigate the path towards reopening.
Pastoral letter from the Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch has written a pastoral letter addressing questions which have arisen around COVID-19 vaccination, face-to-face worship and reopening requirements.
Good food for a good cause
Summer means the perfect weather for a barbecue and Frontier Services' Great Outback BBQ is a fantastic way of supporting our farmers.
It’s time to act on climate
Ahead of COP26 which starts on October 31, Moderator Denise Liersch and Senior Social Justice Advocate Mark Zirnsak are calling for concerted action to address climate change.
Hope shines in dark times
As our resilience is tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moderator Denise Liersch encourages us to remember that it is our faith that sustains us.
An open letter of sincere gratitude and encouragement
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc throughout the country, Uniting Church leaders have written an open letter recognising its impact on us all and asking us to "carefully consider vaccination".
Ton of joy as Eve celebrates special day
Rev Sani Vaeluaga performed a very special act recently for Lara aged care resident Eve Crumpton, who decided, at the age of 101, that it's never too late to be baptised.
Sharon Hollis installed as President
The 16th Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia was held online over the weekend, with former Synod Moderator Sharon Hollis installed as President.
Narana pastoral letter from Moderator
Ahead of NAIDOC Week, a recent visit to the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre has given Moderator Denise Liersch plenty of reason to feel optimistic about the march towards reconciliation.
Cold comfort for many
With your support, Uniting Vic.Tas will continue its outstanding work and help more than 9000 families in crisis this winter.
New centre promotes old perspectives
Australia's oldest and largest theological school is about to take the exciting step of launching its own Indigenous Studies Centre.
It’s access all areas
How a strong communication and engagement process among staff members meant that one shop ensured it was open for business for all customers.
Queen’s Birthday honours
Seven UCA members have been recognised for their service to the community in this year’s Queen's Birthday Honours List.
New lessons learnt during lockdown
New ways of worship have resulted from the need to be innovative during lockdown, says Rev Mat Harry.
All you need to know: answers to your frequently asked questions
To help you get the answers you need, our Coronavirus Crisis Team has listed your FAQs. This page will be updated regularly and we hope it will satisfy most of your queries, saving you from having to pick up a phone or send an email.
Lockdown pastoral letter from Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch has penned a pastoral letter reminding us of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. “Sometimes when we are in the midst of tough life experiences we can be more deeply in touch with our hearts than when life is running smoothly.”
Journey continues towards reconciliation
National Reconciliation Week offers an opportunity for First and Second Peoples to walk together in partnership, says Leprena Centre's Alison Overeem.
Helen is never bone idle
Regular exercise at an AgeWell gym and participation in a groundbreaking study have Hawthorn resident Helen Malins ready for her next big adventure.
Cookbook still tasting success
For more than a century, The PWMU Cookbook has been a staple item in kitchens right around Australia, with money from sales funding mission projects around the world.
Service marks special occasion
Easter Sunday was an appropriate day on which to welcome new life, in the form of Kew Uniting Church.
Moderator’s Easter message 2021
Moderator Denise Liersch’s Easter message invites us to get personal. “Being known and called by name makes us into people considered by others as being of value and of worth. It includes us, holds us and enfolds us. It gives us a place and a home where we know we belong."
Online Synod Meeting a winner
Organising the first ever online Synod Meeting presented plenty of challenges, but those responsible succeeded with fantastic teamwork.
April Crosslight now available
The April edition of Crosslight is now available at all of its regular distribution points. For those of you unable to get a copy, Crosslight is also available online in its popular Flipbook format and as a PDF for you to download and print out.
App offers a new avenue of worship
An app to be launched across the country later this month provides an opportunity for people to share faith and explore new forms of church.
Synod 2021 prepares to make history
This month's "virtual" Synod Meeting will be like none before it, but it remains vital to ensuring we continue to serve the life and mission of the Church.
February Crosslight now available
The February edition of Crosslight is now available at all of its regular distribution points. For those of you unable to get a copy, Crosslight is also available online in its popular Flipbook format and as a PDF for you…
Resources help healing in times of disaster
A new resource provides vital information and guidance for ministers and lay leaders to begin the healing process after a disaster.
Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Bill 2020: Statement from the Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch says "the Uniting Church supports the intention of the legislation to protect vulnerable people from the harm of coercive practices".
Help Philippines residents hit hard by typhoons
Philippines residents need our support after the country was rocked by two major typhoons in November.
Moderator shares a Christmas message
Moderator Denise Liersch reflects on the carol 'O Little Town of Bethlehem' and how it speaks to the sense of disconnect many are feeling this Christmas.
Message from the President
"In this season of Advent, we reflect on the coming of Christ into our world with anticipation and hope", writes President Deidre Palmer.
Award win tastes wonderful for volunteers
The Boroondara Community Outreach service has been recognised with a prestigious award for its wonderful work providing meals and other services during the COVID-19 crisis.
Hobart church service marks historic milestone
Faith community members in Tasmania had plenty to celebrate last Sunday as they gathered to mark the 200th anniversary of the arrival of Methodist mission to the Apple Isle.
Crosslight December now available
The December edition of Crosslight is now available both in print and as an easy-to-access, reader-friendly digital “flipbook”. It features an array of engaging stories and thought-provoking opinion pieces.
NAIDOC 2020 resources
Below is a ’boutique’ list of resources to engage young people in conversation around the significant of NAIDOC week. As always, if you think something is missing, please get in touch! The NAIDOC website seems a good place to start…
NAIDOC Week 2020 reflection
Leprena Centre Manager Alison Overeem has written a poetic reflection for NAIDOC Week, asking that we learn the history of First Peoples and hear and honour their stories.
Comparing Victoria and Tasmania’s different pandemic experiences
Little separates Victoria and Tasmania geographically, but thanks to the pandemic they have been worlds apart for most of this year.
October Crosslight now available
The October edition of Crosslight is now available in an easy-to-access, reader-friendly digital “flipbook”. It features an array of engaging stories including an investigation into how lockdowns have affected young people and a look at Tasmania and Victoria's very different COVID-19 experiences.
Pastoral letter from the Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch reflects on how different the lives of Victorians and Tasmanians are at the moment and how Jesus calls us to be one community together.
Twin bomb survivor’s remarkable and inspiring story
More than 260,000 people survived the twin attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. One of them was Tsutomu Yamaguchi. Incredibly, he reported for work the day after the second blast.
August Crosslight now available
The August edition of Crosslight is now available in an easy-to-access, reader-friendly digital “flipbook”. It features an array of engaging stories and thought-provoking opinion pieces that will either inspire you, give you reason to reflect or encourage you to take action.
Coping with COVID-19: Lindsay Oates
Victorian Local Men’s Health Hero Award recipient Lindsay Oates talks about the life-saving work of the Men's Sheds.
Birthday message from the Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch reflects on the Uniting Church's 43rd birthday and asks what is your wish for the UCA?
Coping with COVID-19: Ilaisaane Pongi
Ilaisaane Pongi says lockdown has given her “ample opportunity for deep reflection on my life”. She also shares a Bible passage that has provided much comfort during these “challenging times”.
Holy Communion: what to consider
Professor Stephen Burns and Reverend Fran Barber explore practises of sharing communion which reflect our theology and minimise the risk of infection.
Switched on knitters and Lego builders
Digital church was on for young and old last weekend with knitters and Lego builders strutting their stuff online.
Coping with COVID-19: Jamie Cameron
Lockdown restrictions have made Uniting Ballarat Social Enterprise Coordinator Jamie Cameron realise just how important community is. “I have been reminded of how … we contribute to each other’s lives,” he says.
Seeking a more just post-pandemic path
When the lockdown is lifted, will we return to what we knew, or will a ‘new normal’ emerge, one that embraces the poor, lonely, marginalised, disadvantaged and vulnerable?
Finding grace in the little things
Lockdown has forced us to reevaluate many of our rusted on thoughts and beliefs. For Ellaine Downie, that has meant saying thank you in a way she didn’t think she could.
Youthful enthusiasm earns AOM honours
A school principal with a passion for science education and a former Uniting Church youth leader, who is still mentoring others in his 90s, were recognised in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list.
Coping with COVID-19: Dick Straw
Dick Straw has been living alone for the past 30 years, but during this time of enforced isolation, the 90-year-old has rediscovered the joy of an old hobby.
First Peoples connections too strong to sever
Leprena centre manager Alison Overeem believes the wisdom and resilience of the First Peoples will come to fore in healing the scars inflicted by the COVID-19 lockdown.
June Crosslight is now available
The June edition of Crosslight is now available in an easy-to-access, reader-friendly digital “flipbook”. The supersized 55-page special edition features an array of engaging stories and thought-provoking opinion pieces.
Coping with COVID-19: Ayla Williams
Isolation has been particularly challenging for our First Peoples, as has the closing of many national parks. But it’s nothing that a bit of Bon Jovi can’t fix, says Ayla Williams.
Compulsory Zoom update
After May 31, Zoom users will need to upgrade to the latest, more secure, version (5.0+) to use the video-conferencing program to conduct church services, meetings and other activities.
Coping with COVID-19: Dennis Cousens
Dennis Cousens is used to being constantly on the road as a patrol minister covering 10,000 square kilometres of rural Tasmania. He tells how his ministry has adapted to being forced out of the saddle.
Disability Royal Commission pastoral letter
Moderator Rev Denise Liersch has released a pastoral letter highlighting the Church’s response to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.
Coping with COVID-19: Sandy Brodine
Now that churches are able to open their doors again, Rev Sandy Brodine hopes congregations maintain the connectedness and creativity that have emerged during lockdown.
Coping with COVID-19: Natalie Dixon-Monu
While Victoria has been in lockdown, Rev Natalie Dixon-Monu and her team at BCO have provided about 5000 meals to vulnerable people in their community. She shares a note from one grateful recipient that will melt your heart.
Coping with COVID-19: Tanya Walker
Lay leader Tanya Walker says in this time of enforced isolation we can learn much from older people.
Synod qualifies for JobKeeper payments
As of April 24, Ministers and people in placement positions can be included in the JobKeeper scheme. Here is the latest update.
Coping with COVID-19: Julie McDonald
Bethel counsellor Julie McDonald says one of the benefits of the lockdown is it has given us a chance “to think about new ways we can be together”.
Coping with COVID-19: Reuben Edmonds
Reuben Edmonds this year moved from WA to study at Pilgrim in a class full of other students. He now finds himself isolated not just from them but his family.
Coping with COVID-19: Kelly Skilton
Kelly Skilton, founder and director of youth community The Sonder Collective, reminds us "God teaches us that beautiful things can grow during times that look and feel barren".
Appeal raises record amount for people in crisis
The 2019 Food For Families appeal donated 73 tonnes of food and other essential items to people in crisis last Christmas.
An alternative to traditional Holy Communion
Rev Jennie Gordon suggests fasting, rather than feasting, can foster “a deeper spiritual appreciation” given we can’t gather as one at the table for Holy Communion at present.
How to gather in spirit, if not in person, this Anzac Day
Army chaplain Andrew Delbridge says the ban on public gatherings will dishearten many veterans but is still hopeful Saturday will be “a very positive, poignant way for people to reflect”.
Pastoral letter from the Moderator
Moderator Denise Liersch says as new considerations for ministry practice emerge, they must be matched to the cultures and contexts of our Church.
Free classes to help alleviate stress and anxiety
Rev John Tansey is conducting daily mindfulness sessions for people who may be struggling with their mental health during this pandemic.
Coping with COVID-19: Robyn Nandan
Hobart mother/grandmother Robyn Nandan is feeling acutely the isolating effects of the current lockdowns. The 72-year-old says the fact she can’t see her eldest three children is “challenging”. “I’m finding this most stressful,” she says.
Focus on human rights, disability and ethics
Experts list five groups of people most at risk from the COVID-19 pandemic and give a six-point plan to ensure they are not discriminated against, as has happened overseas.
Is it OK to have Holy Communion online?
Absence makes the heart grow tender in these days of social isolation. And it also prompts the question: Is it OK to have Holy Communion online? Rev Dr Sally Douglas shares her thoughts.
Now I understand what Lent is all about
Ellaine Downie has always resisted participating in the spiritually nourishing sacrifices that precede Easter. But this year is different. “Unwillingly, I am experiencing what the disciples must have felt,” she says.
What does trusting yourself to God look like right now?
St Andrew’s Gardiner UC minister Rev Ajub Jahja reflects on the function of faith during this pandemic. “Faith is important, but so is reason,” he says.
Coping with COVID-19: Rev Alex Sangster
Rev Alex Sangster shares how St Andrews UC, Fairfield, a normally “low tech” congregation, has adjusted to church online and why she’s swapped the church building for her living room.
Coping with COVID-19: Jo Austin
Children’s support worker Jo Austin talks about her weekly Sunday FEASTs, which provide nourishment of a different kind for families, and what is the most challenging part of her job now that people are house-bound.
Moderator shares an Easter reflection
Moderator Rev Denise Liersch reminds us to look to Jesus for a way forward during this time of seismic upheaval.
Coping with COVID-19: Rev Beth Bear
What’s a “Chapel bite”? It’s one of school chaplain Rev Beth Bear’s clever innovations to help her keep in touch with the students at The Scots School, Albury.
Ellaine’s soothing song just the balm we need
Ellaine Downie has written a song which she hopes will bring people to a "quiet place to rest and pray for comfort".
Moderator says support one another and remember God is with us
Moderator Rev Denise Liersch asks us to think of Peter’s words as we struggle with the isolating and stressful effects of COVID-19.
Holy Communion temporary arrangements
The Assembly Standing Committee has approved temporary guidelines for congregations and faith communities to celebrate Holy Communion as part of online worship.
Guidelines for Safe Digital Ministry UPDATED
The following resources are prepared for ministry agents and volunteers to ensure digital ministry remains a safe experience for all people, including the most vulnerable.
Why you should ignore all that productivity pressure
Aisha Ahmad says we should "make ample room to allow for a mental adjustment" during this time of social distancing. "Given time, your brain will reset to new conditions, and your ability to do higher-level work will resume."
Letter from Moderator and General Secretary
Moderator Denise Liersch and General Secretary Mark Lawrence explain what the COVID-19 restrictions mean for church life – everything from weddings and funerals to use of church halls.
Coping with COVID-19: Rev Cameron McAdam
Rev Cameron McAdam says there was an unexpected delight from his church's first live streamed service.
Coping with COVID-19: Rev Claire Dawe
Manningham UC minister Claire Dawe speaks about how COVID-19 has affected her church and how they are worshipping online.
Letter from Moderator and General Secretary
Moderator Denise Liersch and General Secretary Mark Lawrence respond to the National Cabinet's announcement that places of worship are to be temporarily closed.
Pray, but stay away: holding on to faith in the time of coronavirus
"In this time of great anxiety, faith leaders have a responsibility to step up with words of comfort and compassion, drawing on the depths of their sacred traditions and texts."
COVID-19: Moderator’s pastoral letter
Moderator Denise Liersch has written a pastoral letter as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout Victoria and Tasmania.
COVID-19: Message from the General Secretary
This letter from General Secretary Mark Lawrence provides advice to congregations in relation to COVID-19.
How to live stream a worship service or church event
Here are some simple guides to help congregations or other church groups live stream worship services and other events during the Coronavirus crisis.
Coronavirus information for presbyteries and congregations
This letter provides guidance on how to best provide pastoral care and worship services as the spread of Coronavirus escalates.
Moderator’s Lent and Easter Offering
Lent is the season of the church year when we take time to reflect on Jesus’s journey to the cross and what this means for us, and for all people.
Church rallies to help bushfire-devastated areas
In partnership with Uniting Vic.Tas, our Synod continues to be actively involved in assisting communities ravaged by the current bushfires.
Wesley Church enters new era of worship and witness
The 161-year-old Wesley Church is welcoming back worshippers after a painstaking period of restoration.
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