Vale Rev Professor Norman Young

The Assembly is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rev Professor Norman Young, who died on Sunday 19 May in Melbourne.

A deeply humble, wise and respected figure, Norman was one of the courageous and visionary founders of the Uniting Church in Australia.

The President of the Methodist Conference of Victoria and Tasmania at the time of Union, he convened the Methodist members of the Joint Commission on Church Union and was one of the architects of the Basis of Union. He went on to make a significant contribution to the Uniting Church as a theologian, scholar, pastor and ecumenist.

His service to the national life of the UCA included:

• Assembly Standing Committee (1977-1979) and again from 1985-1988
• Commission on Doctrine (1977-1988)
• Ministerial Education Council (1977-1982)
• Convenor of the Cato Lecture (1977-2009)
• Commission on Ecumenical Affairs – Later Commission for Christian Unity (1977-1997) (Convenor 1977-1979 and again 1991-1995)
• UCA’s Representative of the World Council of Churches Commission on Faith and Order (1977-1982)
• UCA’s Representative on the World Methodist Council from 1979-1996 including Chair of the Methodist World Evangelism Council in 1985
• A member of the Roman Catholic and Anglican dialogues
• UCA’s Representative to the World Alliance of Reformed Churches in 1988
• Task Group on Episcopacy 1985-1988

Norman held further significant roles in the Synod of Queensland and the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania. He wrote two important books on the Basis of Union, in 1971 (‘Introducing the Basis of Union’) and 2012 (‘Theological Convictions of the Basis of Union’).

His impact, influence and legacy is immeasurable. He was much loved by students, experienced church leaders and community leaders alike.

Rev Sharon Hollis paid tribute to Norman this week.

“Norman was a gifted teacher of theology able to make ideas understandable while avoiding triteness. He was a committed ecumenist, and a kind pastor.”

“His contribution to the life of the Uniting Church is profound particularly through his leadership as convenor of the Methodist members of the Joint Commission on Church Union and his ongoing teaching and writing on the theology of the Uniting Church.”

“The church in Australia had been enriched by his commitment to ecumenical theological education.”

“Personally, I am grateful for Norman’s pastoral care, his capacity to visit just when it was needed with just the right words. I am grateful for his shaping of my theology. I give thanks to God for his life and witness to the immense grace of God.”

Vale, Norman Young. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.