Describing a “deep sense of joy in coming home”, Rev Sharon Hollis was last week inducted into the role of Associate General Secretary in the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania.
The former UCA President takes on the role following the retirement of Isabel Thomas Dobson.
A large number of familiar faces were on hand at Wesley Place last Thursday to witness the induction.
In welcoming Sharon’s appointment, General Secretary Rev Dr Mark Lawrence said her extensive experience within a number of Uniting Church roles would serve her well as Associate General Secretary.
“Sharon has been a Moderator, Culture and Safety Resource Officer, and President of the Assembly,” Mark said.
“Sharon, we rejoice that God has called you by the voice of the Church to serve Jesus Christ in this role.”
Sharon said she was looking forward to her new role within the Synod.
“On one level this is an administrative role, but it has a lot of other dimensions,” she said.
“I think one of the important things we should all do is to constantly and regularly notice the great things God is doing in our midst.
“Although we can sometimes feel small and marginal, God continues to do great things in the world and our collective task is to notice those things, to pay attention to them and to allow them to shape the work that we do.
“(They should guide) the way in which we build community, administer the work of the Church, offer pastoral counsel, and seek to resource each other.
“I hope that I can hold those before myself as I move into this role.”
Sharon said she was delighted to be returning to work for the Synod, which had shaped so much of her life.
“It does feel like a bit of a homecoming, and I have spoken previously about how much my life has been enriched while working for the Synod,” she said.
“There is a deep sense of joy in coming home.
“I have a deep conviction as a Minister of the Word that call and discernment is worked out in community … and I am grateful to those who helped in the discernment process (ahead of my appointment).”