"A fleet of canoes at sea"
Insights from our international church partners over lunch with UnitingWorld
July 13, 2024
UnitingWorld hosted an insightful lunchtime panel discussion with visiting partner church leaders from India, Indonesia and Tonga. UCA members heard leaders speak on issues including faith and climate change, ecumenism, ending poverty and unity in multifaith contexts.
General Secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches, Rev James Bhagwan, likened the coalition of churches to “a fleet of canoes at sea”, all working together to navigate and advocate for social changes on social issues like climate change.
Rev Bhagwan said:
“We need to lead the way for climate change within our communities, and also encourage informed decisions at an individual and constituent level.”
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Rev Dr Tevita Havea, President of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, spoke about the devastation of the tsunami and volcanic eruption in Tonga, reflecting on the very intimate stories of trauma relayed to him by families. He recalled one little girl relaying her anguish to him over not being able to find her school backpack in the midst of the rubble and natural destruction.
Rt Rev Sameer Khimla reflected on what God is doing in the expansive and populous diocese of Durgapur in Northern India. A focus of their work is social empowerment, education, hygiene initiatives and anti-human trafficking, specifically in the northern regions bordering Bangladesh.
Rev Dr Demianus Ice, Moderator of the Evangelical Christian Church in Halmahera (Indonesia), reflected on the entrenched legacy of socio-political trauma in the country. He highlighted the need to focus on interfaith and intercultural dialogue to soothe these tensions.
The presence of international church partners at Assembly meetings is a long tradition and brings breadth to the discussions by fostering a deeper understanding of global issues facing the church (such as poverty, climate change and gender equality) and how the Uniting Church is playing a part in that work. Earlier in the day the Church Parnters brought a greeting to the Assembly meeting.
A delegation of leaders from the Presbyterian Church of Korea, including the Moderator and General Secretary, also attended the installation of President Rev Charissa Suli on Thursday evening.
Read more 17th Assembly news
What's next for Act2?
What’s next for the Act2 Project? The work of the Act2 Project is by no means over. Rather, it is in a time of transition after the 17th Assembly, writes Acting Act2 Project Lead Rev Erik Lennestålwritten by Acting Act2 Project Lead, Rev Erik Lennestål The work of the Act2 Project is by no means…
Video: Meet our President-elect Rev Dr Paul Goh
“The Gospel to the whole creation”: Meet our President-elect Rev Dr Paul Goh We share an interview filmed at the 17th Assembly following Paul Goh’s election as the next President. He will serve in the Uniting Church’s most senior leadership role from 2027-2030The Assembly is delighted to release this new video introducing you to the…
That's a wrap on the 17th Assembly
That’s a wrap on the 17th Assembly meeting The 17th Assembly has wrapped up after six joyful days of fellowship, worship and discernment. As we head home from the triennial meeting, let’s keep weaving Christ’s loveThe 17th Assembly meeting wrapped up in Parramatta on Tuesday afternoon after six days of joyful Christian community, worship, prayer…
Act2 Decisions Summary
17th Assembly resolved on Act2 The 17th Assembly has adopted three new visions for the life of the Uniting Church, established two new national Commissions and requested further work on the national structure of the UCAThe 17th Assembly has made a series of decisions arising out of the Act2 Project, adopting three new visions for…
Reflections from international church partners
Reflections from international church partners President of Free Wesleyan Church in Tonga, Bishop from the Church of North India and General Secretary of Pacific Conference of Churches share with 17th AssemblyThis morning the 17th Assembly heard reflections from leaders of overseas church partners. Rev Dr Tevita Havea, President of the Free Wesleyan Church in Tonga,…
Worship Day 6
Worship Day 6 Two powerful sessions of worship conclude the 17th Assembly meetingAt the conclusion of the 17th Assembly, members gave thanks to God in a powerful and joyful time of worship. Closing Worship commenced with a blessing from the President. Members sang the Covenant Prayer, as put to music by NewLife Church. The President…
ASC appointed, new Chairs and Advocates
ASC Appointed, new Chairs and Advocates The 17th Assembly elects a new Assembly Standing Committee, New Circle Advocates and Committee ChairsOn the final day of the 17th Assembly, a new Assembly Standing Commitee was announced as well as Advocates for the Assembly Circles of Interest and Chairs for various Assembly Committees. Ballot convenor Scott Ballment…
17th Assembly recognises significant ministry across the Church
17th Assembly recognises significant ministry across the Church Minutes of Appreciation offered for former General Secretary, outgoing Board Chairs and moreToday the 17th Assembly recognised the significant leadership and work of people involved in the life and ministry of the Assembly including those in its committees and agencies. The Minutes of Appreciation were received with…