One of the things that really stands out when we read the Basis of Union (1971) today is that it makes no reference to Australia’s First Peoples, the Aboriginal and Islander peoples. That… Continue reading →

Today was Leadership Formation Day at College. It turned out that it was also the Feast of the Annunciation of Our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary. I’ve preached on the text before,… Continue reading →

This is a quintessentially Uniting Church moment: We’re meeting as a council of the church. Actually, we’re two councils – a Presbytery and a Synod. I’ve been asked to say a few words… Continue reading →

It’s been reported that two out of three Australians think that religion does more harm than good in the world. That’s not encouraging news at a time when there are questions being asked about… Continue reading →

On October 16 a new history of lay education in South Australia is being launched: David Houston, By Word and Deed:Lay people in the Uniting Church, learning and living the faith (Unley, SA: MediaCom… Continue reading →

I tried to connect with a South Australian conversation about call, ministry and ordination earlier this year (God calling). Since then I’ve been asked, in several different contexts, to explain the UCA’s understanding… Continue reading →

During the anniversary celebrations of the past week I’ve heard many references to the Uniting Church as “a pilgrim people”. It’s one of the most loved metaphors in the UCA’s Basis of Union (paragraph… Continue reading →

According to Facebook, someone else noticed that the inauguration of the Uniting Church in Australia followed the winter solstice – 22 June 1977. I’ve never been able to find documentary evidence, but I… Continue reading →

I had a great time today talking with a UCA Adult Fellowship group about “Ethical issues the church has been thinking about and also should be thinking about”. Snappy title, eh? But we… Continue reading →

I was 18 years old when I candidated for ordained ministry – and was accepted. I’d made that decision when I was 16 and had mentors who helped me work towards engaging in… Continue reading →