Assembly gives thanks to God and marks the close of the UCAF National Committee

The Uniting Church Adult Fellowship (UCAF) National Committee resolved to conclude its ministry in January 2024. In an emotional session of appreciation and blessing this afternoon, the 17^th Assembly gave thanks for its ministry, life and history.

Ex-President Rev Sharon Hollis worked closely with the UCAF National Committee and presented a formal Minute of Appreciation, expressing admiration for the journey which led to the decision.

“I came to realise this National Committee was wrestling with really big issues. They were wrestling with them with courage and determination, resilience and faithfulness. I met with them as they worked through the fact that the life of the National Committee was coming to an end.”

“What I admired about this group was they stayed in the conversation with each other even when it was very hard and when they were in deep disagreement with people about the way forward.”

“They recognised that circumstances in the life of the Church and society have changed and that the UCAF National Committee was no longer serving any purpose. There were no longer people willing to serve on the Committee.”

“In January this year we met and this courageous, resilient group said the faithful thing to do now is to end this group. To lay down its life and to end it well; to give thanks for the good it has done.”

“This Minute of Appreciation is an acknowledgement of the deep courage it takes to end something you have loved and cherished.”

The resolution both gives thanks to God for the ministry of the UCAF National Committee and its office bearers, and commends the ongoing ministry of local UCAF groups.

The meeting was attended by current Chairperson Margaret Pedler and Secretary Pam Grant, alongside several Committee and UCAF members. Pam and Margaret addressed the Assembly.

“It’s been my privilege to be involved with the UCAF National Committee since 2014,” said Pam. “For many years it was challenging but exciting with lots of opportunity and hope. But we are an aging church, and COVID-19 changed things for aging volunteers.”

“It was our privilege to have Sharon with us on this journey. We also need to acknowledge the support of the previous General Secretary Colleen Geyer, and current General Secretary (Interim) Rev Lindsay Cullen who helped us work through how some of our work will continue.”

“Thank you – I grew a lot in this role in this church that I love.”

“I give thanks for all the people who are in fellowship groups around Australia and the state committees,” said Margaret. “It’s been a really interesting journey. It’s sad that it’s come to an end but it’s the right time.”

Assembly members sang a blessing for those UCAF members present.

Two important pieces of work previously undertaken by the UCAF National Committee – awarding the Joan Stott Bursary and maintaining a relationship with the World Methodist and Uniting Church Women – will be passed to the Assembly Standing Committee.

In the words of the Minute of Appreciation: “Well done to all those good and faithful servants who have been involved in the ministry of the UCAF National Committee since 1982 to today.”