Key week of discernment in shaping the Church’s future

Leaders from across the Uniting Church in Australia gathered in Sydney last week for a significant series of meetings, marking an important time of discernment and collaboration in the life of the Church.

Over five days, Synod Moderators met with President Rev Charissa Suli, while Synod General Secretaries met with Assembly General Secretary Andrew Johnson. The two groups then came together ahead of the Assembly Standing Committee (ASC) meeting, fostering a shared spirit of listening, openness and cooperation.

Preparations for the Church’s 50th anniversary in 2027 and the next phase of Act2 were central to discussions. Conversations emphasised the theological and missiological priorities of the Church, focusing on why this work matters for strengthening local communities and achieving one of the Assembly’s key strategic goals.

A highlight of the week was the commissioning of Tamara Thomas as National Director of UnitingCare Australia. In her address, Tamara reflected on the legacy of her grandmother, Mary Phyllis Thomas, a passionate advocate for justice, and shared her own commitment to reconciliation, equity and justice.

During its formal sessions, the ASC heard from a panel exploring international ecumenical opportunities and learnings. Contributions included Rev Radhika Sukumar-White reflecting on the World Council of Churches gathering marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea; Pastor Richard La'Brooy on the World Methodist Conference in Sweden; Pastor Joyce Tangi on the Young Adult Pilgrimage of Peace in South Korea; and Latu Suli on the 27th General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches in Thailand.

These insights complemented reports from the Ecumenical Relationships Review Task Group and led the ASC to commit to strengthening engagement in global forums – particularly for young people – and to establish a dedicated ecumenical officer role.

The ASC also received reports from the Assembly’s Resourcing Unit and Commissions, addressing governance, resourcing and theological formation as part of Act2. Draft regulations for church councils and congregations are expected to be considered at the July ASC meeting, while work continues toward a common higher education provider through the Commission for Theology, Formation and Leadership.

Further updates included consultation plans on proposed governance models, and a workshop examining the effectiveness, skills and relationships underpinning the ASC’s governance structures, including its relationship with Congress in line with commitments to self-determination.

The President also reported on the Church’s participation in the General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches in Thailand.

Looking ahead, leaders affirmed shared plans for the Church’s 50th anniversary, with a national celebration to take place during next year’s 18th Assembly. This will include a dedicated celebration evening and a national time of prayer led by the President.

The next ASC meeting will be held online on 23 May, before members gather again in person from 17–19 July.