Repairers of the Breach, Bearers of the Light: President Reflections on her Ormond Uniting Church visit
Rev Charissa Suli attended Ormond Uniting in Melbourne's south-east to celebrate the dedication and reopening of their church bulding after a long and trying journey
February 11, 2026
by Rev Charissa Suli, President, Uniting Church in Australia
I continue to reflect on my time with the people of Ormond Uniting Church last weekend, where I had the joy of being part of the dedication of their newly rebuilt church building – a moment many in the congregation had been waiting for over 17 years.
What was immediately present was a shared sense of joy, excitement and relief. Not simply relief that a building project had finally reached completion, but the deeper relief that comes when years of prayer, patience and perseverance are gathered into thanksgiving. This was a moment shaped by faithfulness across generations – by people who held the vision even when the journey was long and uncertain.
At the service, I preached on the theme “Repairers of the Breach, Bearers of the Light” drawing from the prophet Isaiah. Standing in that newly dedicated space, those words felt deeply embodied. This congregation knows something about repair; about staying when it would have been easier to step away, about trusting God through long seasons of waiting, and about choosing hope over fatigue.
“It’s not about good looks. The Church must preach Jesus Christ. And when you’re reading the Bible, let it come alive in you so that it can come alive in those who hear the Bible read aloud”
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What encouraged me greatly was the congregation’s clarity about the journey they are on. Ormond Uniting is intentionally discerning what it means to be a truly intercultural and intergenerational community of faith – not simply welcoming difference, but learning how to worship, lead and live together across cultures, ages and experiences. This is not easy work, but it is faithful work, shaped by the gospel rather than nostalgia or convenience.
That commitment was visible in the breadth of those gathered. Leaders from Synod and Presbytery stood alongside the local Mayor and representatives from civic and community life. Their presence spoke of a church that understands its calling beyond its own walls – a church willing to be visible, to partner, and to bear light in the public square.
Throughout the service, I was reminded again of something I am hearing consistently across the life of the Church: people want to worship. They want worship that is grounded, meaningful and centred on Christ. They want to be part of communities that are in mission – not as a program, but as a way of living – sharing the love of Christ and the good news of Jesus with humility and hope.
I was also encouraged all to learn of Ormond’s commitment to Net Zero, aligning with the Assembly’s direction. This reflects a growing understanding across our Church that care for creation is an expression of discipleship and love for God’s world.
One of the most moving moments for me personally was time spent with Rev Bill Morgan, now 110 years old – a living witness to decades of faithful ministry. Bill shared words with me that I continue to think about: “It’s not about good looks. The Church must preach Jesus Christ. And when you’re reading the Bible, let it come alive in you so that it can come alive in those who hear the Bible read aloud”.
As President, experiences like this shape what I am asking of the Church at this time: to pay attention to where the Spirit is bringing life, to stay committed to the work of repair even when it takes time, and to step into our calling as bearers of light – visible, hopeful, and grounded in Christ.
I am deeply grateful to Ormond Uniting’s minister Rev Dr Ji Zhang, his family and the members of the congregation for hosting such a Spirit-filled and generous celebration. This dedication marked not just the completion of a long journey, but the beginning of a new season of worship, mission and service.
For this, I give thanks to God.
President Rev Charissa Suli
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